A positive attitude can go a long way to keeping us healthy as we age. Studies have long suggested that “zest for life” helps us maintain independence well into our golden years, can increase our lifespan, and reduce the risk for heart disease and stroke.
A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal offers further evidence of the positive impact optimism has on health and wellbeing. Researchers studied 3,199 people aged 60 and older over an eight-year span to better understand the relationship between happiness and a senior’s ability to carry out daily activities.
Participants filled out a questionnaire ascertaining their level of life enjoyment. Sample questions included: “I enjoy being in the company of others,” and “I feel full of energy these days.”
Most of the participants who reported high levels of happiness also maintained a high level of independence over the course of the eight-year study. Conversely, those who reported minimal happiness experienced physical decline, and were 80 percent more likely to struggle with day-to-day activities, such as getting dressed.
At Waterstone, we also believe a positive outlook on life can promote good health. We offer our residents an array of programs that help them stay social and active, allow them to learn new skills, and pursue their passions – all of which are designed to help each person feel a stronger sense of purpose, fulfillment, and of course, happiness.
