In women, the answer is YES! Your attitude can affect how you age. You have some control over living like “This and Not That”. Learn more about aging gracefully and having the life you desire in retirement!
Optimism and Healthy Aging in Women
Optimism, the expectation that good things will happen, is associated with healthier behaviors and reduced risk of disease. A recent medical study shows that higher optimism was indeed associated with healthy aging. This potentially modifiable health asset may assist us in staying younger longer!
The Study
Researchers at Harvard Medical School analyzed data on over 33,000 women. These women were healthy with no chronic disease at baseline. Optimism was assessed in 2004 with a validated questionnaire. Eight years later, the researchers assessed healthy aging in these patients. Healthy aging was defined by (1) remaining free from chronic disease (2) having no subjective memory problems (3) intact physical functioning (4) survival through follow-up.
Results
Overall, 6800 women met the criteria for healthy aging. The most optimistic women had a 23% greater likelihood of healthy aging. I will take those odds any day! How about you?
To learn more about Healthy Aging, contact us at Radiance Functional Medicine!
Happy 2020!
Dr. Tracy
Am J Prev Med. 2019 Jan; 56(1): 116–124
