Many people are afraid of getting older – but that is not necessary. We clear up 5 prejudices:

Ageing has a real image problem . There are countless truisms and myths, all of which merely spread negative untruths about the later stages of life. But that's over now, let's get things straight.

Ageing cannot be stopped anyway – or not yet. Who knows what the future might bring. But you can of course keep some of the common symptoms in check with healthy routines, from good skin care to a healthy diet. And exercise, of course, sport is the be-all and end-all.

Believing in truisms is more harmful than you think

Above all, you have to shed the pessimistic mindset that has been drummed into us by all the false myths. This is actually extremely important for maintaining a youthful appearance, active muscles and especially a powerful brain. Because our thoughts do influence our actions.

According to an article by Harvard Pilgrim HealthCare in collaboration with the Boston Globe, there are 5 myths about ageing that are universally accepted as true - and wrongly so.

These are the 5 big myths about ageing that are absolutely not true:

1: You will not be able to learn new things anymore

The cognitive functions of your brain can - emphasis on being able - decrease or even be lost with age, yes. But according to Harvard, that doesn't mean you can't generally learn new things or develop your skills. “Pursuing new interests that stimulate the brain helps improve memory. Keeping your mind active and learning new skills as you age develops a 'cognitive reserve' that allows the brain to become more adaptive and compensate for any age-related memory problems in the future," reads the article.

It is recommended that you take up new hobbies, learn a language, or engage in an activity that stimulates the brain. So there are no excuses. Ageing doesn't mean that you can't learn anything new. This also applies to new technologies .

2: You will definitely be demented in old age

Many people fear getting older because they are concerned about suffering from memory problems or even getting diseases like Alzheimer's. Then there is the fear that one day you will no longer be the same person. That too can be prevented. Harvard recommends reading, painting, and even playing cards.

3: Depression is the norm in older adults

According to science, depression can shorten lifespan and apparently it severely impacts quality of life. They can lead to less exercise and less social contact, which in turn is bad for the body and mind. According to a Harvard study, however, the risk of depression is significantly higher in young people than in older people.

4: You won't be able to exercise as much as you used to

Some people still believe that as they get older they will no longer be able to lift weights or play vigorous sports. Muscle wasting seems inevitable, as is weight gain and subsequent mobility problems.

Harvard states that exercise promotes physical and mental health at any age, and that active exercise can maintain or even increase muscle mass. And no, there is no age limit. There are also bodybuilders who are over 70 years old.

Myth 5: As you get older, you need less sleep

Some believe that as you get older, you don't need as much sleep . After all, old people always get up super early, don't they? But that has nothing to do with reality. There is a certain number of hours of sleep that each age group needs. Whether you're in your early 20s or 60s, you should get 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night. Anything else is just unhealthy.

If you're having trouble falling asleep, it's a good idea to develop a sleep routine. If that doesn't work, there are also enough medical aids that give you a balanced night's sleep.

Article adapted from GQ Mexico