| Myth |
Common Themes |
Fact or Reality |
| All older adults are frail and dependent. |
Decline in physical health, cognitive decline, social isolation |
Older adults are a diverse population with a wide range of health, cognitive, and social functioning. Many older adults are healthy, active, and engaged in their communities. |
| Older adults are no longer productive members of society. |
Retirement, ageism |
Older adults continue to contribute to society in many ways, including through paid work, volunteering, and caregiving. They also provide a wealth of knowledge and experience that can benefit younger generations. |
| Older adults are depressed and lonely. |
Negative stereotypes about aging, social isolation |
Many older adults are happy and satisfied with their lives. However, some older adults do experience depression and loneliness, and these are important issues that need to be addressed. |
| Older adults are a burden on society. |
Cost of healthcare, long-term care |
The cost of caring for older adults is a significant financial burden, but older adults also contribute to the economy through their spending and taxes. They also provide a valuable source of labor, especially in the caregiving sector. |