After decades of stereotypical narratives about agerelated decline, today’s older adults may be writing a new story.
Ready for the Cliff Notes? You might be getting better with age.
Using more than 10 years of data from a large, representative study of older Americans, Yale University researchers found that nearly half of adults 65 and older showed improvement in cognitive function, physical function, or both. And here’s the kicker: these gains weren’t about running marathons or solving genius-level puzzles.
Instead, improvements were strongly linked to participants’ mindset about aging.
Over a 12-year period, 45 percent of participants improved either mentally or physically. About 32 percent showed cognitive gains, while 28 percent improved physically, according to the study. Those with more positive perceptions of aging were significantly more likely to show improvements in both areas.
Dr. Becca Levy, lead author of the study at the Yale School of Public Health, says, “Improvement in later life is not rare, it’s common, and it should be included in our understanding of the aging process.”
What are some ways to build a positive mindset about aging? Consider these steps:
• Actively reject ageist stereotypes.
• Practice gratitude, selfacceptance, and positive affirmations.
• Keep growing, learning, and exploring.
• As challenges arise, seek out ways to navigate them, rather than letting them define you.
• Discover a new purpose.
• Volunteer your time and talents.
• Cultivate friendships with people of all ages.
• Move your body regularly through exercise.
Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS) is the local area agency on aging, dedicated to empowering those 60 and over with the resources and opportunities they need to lead engaged lives. For support in your journey, visit vpas.info or call (540) 2617474.
