How Positive Attitude Affects Aging in Seniors
A recent study, titled Just as Expected? Older Adults' Aging Expectations are Associated with Subjective Cognition, explores the relationship between positive expectations about aging and cognitive health in older adults.
Researchers found that seniors who maintain positive expectations about their physical health, mental well-being, and cognitive function tend to experience better self-perceived cognitive abilities and lower subjective cognitive decline (SCD). This association suggests that a positive outlook can contribute to a healthier aging experience.
The study involved 581 older adults between 65 and 90 years, who completed surveys about their expectations regarding aging and their subjective cognition, or self-perceived cognitive function. Positive expectations about physical and mental health, as well as cognitive abilities, correlated with higher ratings of current cognitive performance and a reduced perception of cognitive decline. This trend was evident even when controlling for variables like age, education, and health status.
One of the key findings was that expectations about cognitive health played a particularly strong role in subjective cognition. Seniors with optimistic views on their cognitive health were less likely to report memory problems and other cognitive issues. Researchers theorize that this may be due to the influence of positive aging expectations on lifestyle choices; individuals with positive beliefs about aging may be more inclined to engage in activities that preserve cognitive function, such as physical exercise, social engagement, and mental stimulation.
This study also highlights the idea that aging expectations are not static. Changing seniors’ attitudes about aging through interventions, like counseling or educational programs, could potentially improve their subjective cognition and reduce perceived cognitive decline. By promoting positive expectations around aging, seniors may be empowered to maintain their mental and physical health as they grow older.
In summary, a positive attitude affects aging, and can make a difference in how seniors experience their cognitive health, encouraging them to live more vibrant and fulfilling lives
