The Secret behind Aging Well

As we grow older, we not only experience changes in our bodies but changes that occur as we transition from the workplace to retirement, to children leaving home, the loss of loved ones, and even the loss of our own independence.  However research suggests that the more adept we are at coping with the various challenges we encounter along the road to old age, the better our chances are for a healthier and happier life.  According to experts, we can make a positive difference in our own aging process.      

One example is the Harvard Study of Adult Development, which began in the 1930s, and followed 800 men and women from adolescent to old age.  The goal was to try and determine what factors and behaviors translated into “happy and healthy longevity.”  Along the way, researchers discovered that some of our long-held assumptions regarding aging did not match their results.    

Instead they were surprised to see things like cholesterol levels and happy childhoods were not as important as how well we cope with stress.  It did not seem to matter what the level of stress participants faced, but rather the way they handled it.  Those who followed the old adage – making lemonade out of lemons – appeared to age better.  Researchers reported other healthy factors included avoiding cigarettes, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, pursuing education, and having strong social relationships.   

Another study’s findings reported by the U.S. News & World Report, suggests that longevity may be as related to a healthy lifestyle as it is to a positive outlook on life.  Researchers studied a group of several hundred Italians over the age of ninety to determine if they had any common traits; and it turns out they did.   Even when things were bad, most of them had the ability to quickly readjust and get back to a positive attitude.  Their focus shifted to things that were going well rather than dwell on what went wrong. 

The study also showed the group shared a strong work ethic.  This was not working long hours at a job, but rather a commitment “to personal and professional projects that are both engaging and exciting.”  Martin Seligman, a leading psychologist in the field of positive psychology, states that, “happiness has several dimensions that can be cultivated,” and we can find fulfillment “by using our strengths for a greater purpose.”     

So while following a healthy diet, exercising, getting enough sleep, and maintaining and nurturing relationships are important, we also need to take the time to nurture and maintain a positive attitude.  When we put things in the right perspective, it can create positive momentum, even when times are tough.  Taking the time to care for ourselves means we will get more enjoyment out of the many years we have left.   

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Sources: helpguide.org/articles/alzheimers-dementia-aging/staying-healthy-as-you-age.htm/

webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/secrets-of-aging-well#1