Top 5 Myths about Aging

Stay young -- Don't believe these common myths about aging.

So many myths about aging are unchallenged. These myths have been passed down from generation to generation and most of society accepts them as fact. It's true that you are only as old as you think. Think young and stay that way!

Myth #1 -- Falling comes with aging -- There's nothing I can do about it

Falling definitely goes hand-in-hand with aging, but there is plenty you can do to ensure healthy aging and prevent falls. One in every three people over the age of 65 will fall and cause a serious enough injury to require medical attention. These falls cause hip fractures and other injuries that can lead to death.

To prevent this from happening to you, do a combination of four exercises. Try aerobic, strengthening, balance and flexibility exercises for cardiovascular fitness, build muscles, improve balance, and keep you limber. A simple program that combines these exercises will greatly improve your odds against falling.

Myth #2 -- Once lost, muscle and flexibility are never regained

Untrue. Exercise has proven just as effective for elderly people as for younger generations. Muscles and ligaments respond to exercise regardless of your age. By exercising regularly, you can see great improvement in your health.

Myth #3 -- Aging means losing your teeth

Most people lose their teeth due to late stage gum disease. This is begins as gingivitis and progresses to periodontal disease. You can avoid this situation with proper education and dental care and you can keep your teeth.

Myth #4 -- I'll become senile as I age

Some age related declines in mental functioning are preventable and reversible. Scientists at Tufts University, who study the aging brain, discovered that many times vitamin deficiencies were the cause of mental issues. They discovered that low folate can cause forgetfulness, irritability and even depression. A vitamin B6 deficiency can cause tingling or numbness in hands and feet.

Senility and other common complaints that come with aging can be reduced by eating a healthy diet and taking a good multivitamin.

Myth #5 -- I will need a hearing aid

Many people expect to lose their hearing as they age, and it is true that sensory cells within your ears begin to die off causing your hearing ability to decline. However, if you protect your hearing when you are younger, chances are you will never need a hearing aid.

Only thirty-five percent of people over the age of 85 ever need a hearing aid and some people in their 90s never need one.

You can't stop aging -- it's just the course of nature. You can, however, follow this advice and debunk these myths. By doing so, you'll stay younger, longer and hold off aging as long as possib