According to the Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics, by the year 2010, there will be over 40 million people in the United States over the age of 65.¹ You or someone you know may fall into this category.

As we age, we need to be aware of the truths and myths about aging. This is also the case for our family members and those healthcare professionals that take care of us. For example, here are some statements that most think are true, but are actually FALSE.

• Memory loss is a normal part of aging.
• Older adults have the highest suicide rate of any age group.²

Therefore, we must be aware of perceptions about growing older. Education is key to changing attitudes and influencing perceptions of aging and older people.

(More)