Cracks in a glass pane

Myth Busts

Questioning what we think we know about ageing

When asked to point at an "ageing" person, most people will look for someone over 60. Yet we are all ageing, and ageing affects all of us. Our "Myth Busts" reveal the most common misconceptions about ageing. Every article give a glance into research and motivates to look at ageing in a new way.

Older couple being greeted by two children with kisses on the cheek

There is an idea deeply engrained in economic models that "productivity" goes down with age. This is a myth. Fact is, everyone, regardless of age, contributes. Not always paid, but of value to the economy nonetheless.
Older person with painted nails holds a mobile phone

It is a myth that older people outright refuse new technologies. The fact is that most tech is desiged in a way that makes it difficult or impossible for older people to use.
A person taking notes at a desk which is cluttered with office appliances

Some are afraid that “robots will take our jobs”. Others are sure that automation solve one of our skills shortage. Both is a myth. The fact is, automation will neither save us, nor will it take our jobs.
Two older people sitting by the seashore

Many count on migration to "fix" skill shortages in ageing societies – and in the short term, this can work. However, it is a myth that migration counters population ageing in a sustainable way.
Hands with wrinkles holding each other at a hospital bed

Let's do some math: If older people cost more in terms of healthcare, then healthcare must get more and more expensive in ageing societies. Right? No, a myth! A superficial mathematical projection which falls apart on a closer look.
Woman over sixty stretching outside, smiling

It is a myth that we must resign to becoming more and more frail as we age. In fact, not all older people are frail and, even more importantly, frailty is reversible. It can be prevented and treated to enable a healthier life.
Group of younger people at a picknick

Our thinking about age is shaped by a “generational view” where older and younger people are categorically different. This is a myth, of course. In fact, no matter our age we all share the life course. This is why demographers like to employ the “life course perspective”.