adults age 60 and older, which makes it harder to get a good night’s rest. But senior adults still need seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
6. You lose interest in sex.
The need for intimacy doesn’t end when you reach a certain age. In a 2018 study of adults aged 65 – 80, two-thirds of the respondents said they are interested in sex. More than half reported that sex is important to their quality of life.
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7. You can inherit Alzheimer’s.
Some people worry that if a parent has Alzheimer’s they will develop it. While there are genetic variants linked to Alzheimer’s, inheriting a risk factor does not mean you will develop Alzheimer’s. Some people without any risk factors develop Alzheimer’s. Others have the risk factor, but still don’t develop memory loss. If you are concerned about reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s, a review of research found encouraging evidence for three interventions:
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- Increased exercise
- Blood pressure control
- Cognitive training (computer training to enhance memory, reasoning and speed of processing)
Researchers note that these interventions show promise in preventing Alzheimer’s but the results are inconclusive.
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8. You can stop taking medication when your blood pressure comes down.
High blood pressure is common in older adults, especially people in their 80s and 90s. Some people assume that they can stop taking their medication when their blood pressure goes down. But don’t stop taking your medication until you talk to your doctor.
9. Only women get osteoporosis.
Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis, a disease where bones get so weak they break easily. But men can also develop osteoporosis. In fact, one in five men over age 50 will have a fracture related to osteoporosis. To prevent osteoporosis, eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D. Do weight-bearing exercises such as walking, stair climbing and weight training.
10. You have to stop driving.
In the U.S., one in five drivers are age 65 or older. There is no need to give up your driver’s license unless hearing or vision changes affect your driving ability. If you’re not sure if you should be driving, ask yourself these questions.
A healthy lifestyle and social activities go a long way toward preventing most of the issues associated with old age. An optimistic mindset and an appreciation of the wisdom that comes with age also set the tone for healthy and vibrant senior years.