When you were younger, it seemed as though everyone around you felt the need to impart their advice and bits of wisdom on how to live your life. From choosing a career path to marriage, raising children to saving for retirement, there was never a shortage of opinions. And while you were thankful for the guidance, life experience showed you many of these words of wisdom were—well—wrong. And this stage of your life is no different.
To help you avoid bad advice and misinformation, don’t fall victim to these five aging myths:
Myth 1: There’s No Way to Avoid Genetic Health Conditions
Your mother had a bad hip, your father had high blood pressure and your family history is brimming with heart disease, so you’re probably destined to endure the same, right? Wrong! While you may be genetically predisposed to certain conditions, this doesn’t mean you can’t change the cycle. Through proper diet, exercise and plenty of communication with your doctor, you can reduce your risk and stay healthy.
Myth 2: Getting Older Means Inevitable Brain Health Decline
Contrary to popular belief, poor memory is not an inescapable part of the aging process—but it is common. The good news is there are measures you can take now to reduce the risk of memory loss later in life. Learning a new language, picking up a new hobby and doing logic puzzles can all help promote a stronger memory and better overall brain health.
Myth 3: Depression is a Natural Part of Aging
While everyone feels a little blue from time to time, depression is not a side effect of aging. If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression, speak to your doctor immediately. Your primary care physician can offer a preliminary screening, help you manage your systems and recommend the best next steps.
Myth 4: Traveling is Dangerous for Seniors
If you’ve been looking forward to globe-trotting during your retired years, and your doctor says it’s OK, then do it. Age is no reason to hold back from new adventures. In fact, without work taking up your time, retirement is one of the best times of your life to experience new places.
Myth 5: Your Savings, Medicare and Social Security Will Cover Your Needs
You’ve saved up a lot, and you assume any other needs you have will be covered by Medicare and Social Security. But this isn’t always true. There are plenty of things Medicare doesn’t cover, and average Social Security monthly payouts are currently less than $1,400. And even with ample savings, there’s no guarantee unexpected medical bills won’t wipe it out. Not to mention, it’s difficult to account for inflation. If you want to make sure you have the coverage you need, invest in a care plan with a lifelong guarantee.
When it comes to aging, you can’t (and shouldn’t) believe everything you hear. Take time to investigate claims yourself, and don’t hold back from doing all the things you love. You’ve worked hard for many years, and you shouldn’t let misinformation stand between you and the retirement of your dreams.
Ready to begin planning the retirement you’ve always wanted? Learn more about how modern retirees are paving the way. Get your free copy of our guide Aging in Place: A Popular Trend for a New Generation of Seniors.
