First, we must ask ourselves, what is a myth? The dictionary defines a myth as:
A traditional story, especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining some natural or social phenomenon, typically involves supernatural beings or events.
The dictionary goes on to define a myth as a widely held but false belief or idea.
Myth #1 Falling is something that happens when you age
We should debunk that right now, particularly as September is Fall Prevention Month.
According to the National Council on Aging, falling is not a normal part of aging. By doing the right exercises, making your home safer, and getting regular health checkups, many falls can be prevented. However, the facts remain. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older adults.
You can help prevent falls with just a little bit of effort.
Myth #2 Older people can’t build muscle strength
Sarcopenia or muscle wasting is the enemy of aging. Many older people shy away from weight lifting and exercise in general with the belief that they can’t build strength. Let’s debunk that myth.
Older people CAN and SHOULD build muscle strength so they can enjoy the activities they love because they will have the strength to do them. Muscle strength is one of the key foundations to fall prevention.
Myth #3 My doctor knows best and will tell me what I need to do
Those of you who remember our favorite doctor, Dr. Welby need to know that he no longer exists, sorry. Gone are the days when your doctor know you personally (and your family), your health needs, your medication, etc. We must become our own advocates for our health care. We see different healthcare providers who prescribe treatments and drugs that our other healthcare providers may not know about. Knowing what prescriptions you are taking and why is key to being your own personal advocate.
Even your pharmacist may not put all the pieces together. Here’s an example from our household.
My husband is on high blood pressure medication. His medication was changed to a new medication, yet the pharmacy renewed BOTH medications. If we had not looked carefully at the medications and just taken them as prescribed, my husband’s blood pressure would have gone very south.
Even over-the-counter drugs can interfere with many of the prescription drugs you are taking.
When it comes to falls, your annual eye examination is vital. Poor eyesight and low lighting are a combination that can lead to a bad fall. Try standing (hold onto a chair or counter), close your eyes, and take a few steps. Feel unsteady? That is what it can be like in a room with low lighting and poor eyesight.
Myth #4 I’ll do it when I retire
That’s great, but if you don’t have the strength and good health, the things you may want to do may be very difficult. So many people wait for that vacation, new hobby, etc. and then find their health has suffered because they did not start taking care of themselves.
But wait! It is not too late and it’s never too late.
Myth #5. I don’t need a plan for death
Have you ever had to clean out a parent’s house after they passed away? I could go on and on as we have done it. It is not fun.
Also, how about finances? Where are the bank accounts? Who has access to them? Even facebook – how do you get that changed? Share your stories and share your information
“Aging is an extraordinary process where you become the person you should have been.”
—David Bowie
WAIT
If you want to get stronger and prevent falls, go to my classes pages and join us for one week free of charge. You will see the links! What are you waiting for?
References
National Council on Aging – Falls
https://ncoa.org/older-adults/health/prevention/falls-prevention
https://www.ncoa.org/article/falls-prevention-awareness-week-impact-reports
Another additional reference for end of care life is CAKE. Their website is https://www.joincake.com
Why “Cake?”
End-of-life planning is actually all about honoring life. We chose “Cake” in the spirit of celebrating life milestones, and to highlight that planning is a gift to yourself and to your loved ones.
Our Values
We help people create a plan for a meaningful ending so they can live their best life.
I hope this is of interest. Check them out.
Check them out!