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
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