There is an excellent article in the Wall Street Journal entitled “Why Everything You Think About Aging May Be Wrong“.
Here are some of the myths that the author discusses in the article.
“Myth No. 1: Depression Is More Prevalent in Old Age” – Research has found that this is not true. Adults become happier and more positive as they age.
“Myth No. 2: Cognitive Decline Is Inevitable” – Research has found that this is not true in most cases.
Seniors tend to perform better on real world tasks than tests in a formal setting. Research has found that seniors make wiser decisions and that if they take part in novel activities and learn new skills they can make tremendous gains in cognitive function. It is better to learn a new skills such as painting, music, knitting, a new language, etc. rather than engaging in repetitive word puzzles.
“Myth No. 3: Older Workers Are Less Productive” – According to the article, research has shown that there is age is not related to job performance. In some jobs, age gives a worker an edge over younger workers.
“Myth No. 4: Loneliness Is More Likely” – Again, the research finds this is not true. In fact social relationships improve with age.
“Myth No. 5: Creativity Declines With Age” – In some areas such as math and physics breakthroughs tend to occur early in a career but in others such as history, literature, philosophy, performance improves with age.
“Myth No. 6: More Exercise Is Better” – It is possible to engage in too much exercise. Moderate exercise with a few days off a week has been found to confer great health benefits.
Click the link below to read the entire article:
“Why Everything You Think About Aging May Be Wrong“