Write in complete sentences. BELL RINGER Define gerontology. Define myth. Why is it important for a health care worker to be able to differentiate between myths and facts of aging? Write in complete sentences.

Geriatric Care Chapter 10 Myths on Aging

Objectives for Chapter 10 Differentiate between the myths and facts of six aspects of aging. Identify at least two physical changes of aging in each body system. Demonstrate at least 10 methods of providing care to the elderly individual who is experiencing physical changes of aging. List 5 factors that cause psychological changes of aging. Describe at least 6 methods to assist an elderly individual in adjusting to psychosocial changes. Recognize the causes and effects of confusion and disorientation in the elderly. Create a reality orientation program. Justify the importance of respecting cultural and religious differences. Explain the role of an ombudsman. Define, pronounce, and spell all key terms.

Myths on Aging A myth is a false belief. Many myths exist surrounding the elderly. Health care workers must be able to distinguish fact from myth when providing geriatric care.

MYTH #1 - Most elderly individuals are cared for in institutions or long-term care facilities. Facts Only 5% of the elderly population lives in long-term care facilities. Most lives in their homes or with family members. Others choose retirement communities or in independent- living or assisted-living facilities. Provide meals, transportation, housekeeping, social activities, and medical care They can get the degree of assistance they need while still being independent.

MYTH #2 – Anyone over a certain set age, such as 65, is old. Facts Old is determined less by the number of years lived and more by how an individual thinks, feels, and behaves. For example: A 10 year old thinks a 35 year old is “old” Many elderly are active, productive, and self-sufficient even into their 80s and 90s. Old does NOT mean worthless or worn out. Experienced or mature are better terms.

Myth #3 – Elderly people are incompetent and incapable of making decisions or handling their own affairs. Facts Some experience confusion and disorientation but the majority of elderly remain perfectly competent until they die. Elders usually make better decisions because of the wisdom acquired throughout life. Studies show elderly are able to concentrate, learn new skills, and evaluate new information.

Myth #4 – All elderly people live in poverty. Facts Less than 10% of adults over 65 live at poverty level. They have limited incomes due to retirement but they also have low expenses. Many own their own homes and children are raised and on their own. Social Security, savings account, pensions  very comfortable lifestyle Financial status varies individually.

Myth #5 – Older people are unhappy and lonely. Facts Most elderly people live with someone and/or associate frequently with friends and family. Active in civic groups, charities, social gatherings, and volunteer programs. Others care for grandchildren and are active as the heads of extended families. Percentage of lonely, sad elders is small and there are programs available to assist them.

Myth #6 – Elderly individuals do now want to work (their goal is to retire). Facts Many remain employed into their 70s and even 80s. Older worker has better attendance, performs well, eager to learn new skills, and shows job dissatisfaction. By 2030, 1 out of 5 people will be over age 65 so employers will rely on the elderly to fill job vacancies. Many do not want to work full-time but many return to work in part-time positions or serve as consultants or volunteers.

Myth #7 – Retired people are bored and have nothing better to do with their lives. Facts Retired people enjoy full and active lives. Engage in travel, hobbies, sports, social activities. “I don’t know how I found time to work.”

Myths on Aging Important for health care worker to recognize problems that exist for elderly and understand the varied needs and circumstances. 5% of elderly are in long-term care facilities but that means more than 3 million people will be in these facilities by 2020. Health care workers at all levels will provide services for these people. Geriatric care will continue to be a major aspect of health care.

Today’s Activity Watch the Golden Girls episode (Season 1, Episode 22, "Job Hunting“) Think about how the seven myths of aging are represented in this episode. Write a paragraph for 4 of the 7 myths you can identify describing how it is portrayed in the episode. This is due TOMORROW!