A Positive Attitude Toward Aging May Help You Live Longer

Ageism is defined as a prejudice or discrimination against a particular age-group, especially the elderly; and can have detrimental impact on seniors so reports a 2002 Yale University study. In fact researchers found “age discrimination actually has the potential power to shorten senior’s lives.” Study participants were 50 years and older and periodically interviewed regarding their views on aging. Participants with more positive views on aging lived 7.5 years longer than the group who viewed themselves as burdens to others and felt their life was less valuable. Researchers say a negative attitude on aging increases a senior’s risk for depression and social isolation.   

Another study done in 2019 found positive thinking leads to an 11-15% longer lifespan and a greater chance of living to age 85 and older. Researchers say the results remained consistent after age, gender and income as well as depression and health status were taken into consideration. Positive attitudes on aging may even improve people’s resiliency toward illness and give them a greater will to live.

One way to improve your outlook on life and develop a more positive attitude is to practice positive affirmations. It is recommended you keep an affirmation based in reality and repeat it several times each day. It can be something as simple as repeating “you can handle whatever life brings your way,” or a more loving-kindness meditation such as “I am happy.”  Other studies show it is important to surround yourself with positive thinkers as negativity can be catchy. 

At MorningStar of Happy Valley, our welcoming senior living community was designed from the ground up to be a place where residents are proud to call it “home.” The three-story building offers 61 assisted living suites in a variety of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans from 324 sq. ft. to as large as 928 sq. ft. In addition we have 27 secure suites dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Please visit our website for contact information, to see our floor plans, discover our many amenities and learn about our care services.  

Source: verywellmind.com/positive-thinking-and-aging-2224134