A positive outlook on life is important for everyone: studies have shown that an upbeat attitude often results in fewer illnesses and a longer life.
A recent study that looked at 598 seniors coping with disabilities found that those who feel good about aging healed 44 percent faster than those who did not. The study followed two groups of people over 70: one with a healthy opinion of aging, and one with more dismal views. Over 11 years, participants were asked to rate phrases like “decrepit” or “spry” as they felt they related to aging. The findings suggest that how we view the aging process could ultimately determine how we experience it.
In 2002, another study found that found seniors with more positive views of their aging process lived an average of 7.6 years longer than those with a negative views. These studies correspond with earlier findings that suggest seniors with positive age stereotypes had lower cardiovascular responses to stress and participate in healthier activities than seniors with negative age stereotypes. Studies from the Mayo Clinic back these statistics up, finding that people with a positive attitude make healthier lifestyle choices, such as exercising, eating well, and not smoking.
Taking all this into consideration, it’s clear that initiatives to promote positive age stereotypes can allow people to live more fully and independently later in life. If a loved one does require in home care, the caregivers at Nightingale Homecare can help. Nightingale’s senior care is based on empathy and understanding, and our caregivers work to promote and support as much independence as possible for your loved one. As a premier provider of in home nursing care, we understand the power of positive thinking as it relates to quality of life in seniors. If you’re looking for outstanding homecare, call Nightingale at (602) 504-1555 or contact us online.
