Aging is a natural process that we all must go through, but often it’s viewed with negativity and fear due to the common stereotypes associated with getting older. The good news is that a recent study suggests a positive attitude towards aging may not only improve our well-being but also our cognitive abilities in the long run. In this article, we’ll explore how embracing a positive outlook on aging can positively impact our brain health and cognitive performance as we age.
New research has found a link between positive thoughts about aging and better recovery from mild cognitive issues. The study published in JAMA Open Network analyzed data from 1,716 older adults recovering from mild cognitive impairment. The study participants were assessed for how positive they felt about aging and asked to answer questions on a scale. The researchers found that people who had positive thoughts about aging had a 30.2% greater chance of recovering from mild cognitive impairment than those who had negative thoughts about getting older. The researchers also found that people who had normal cognition at the start of the study and had positive views on aging were significantly less likely to develop mild cognitive impairment over the next 12 years than those who had negative thoughts about getting older.
Mild cognitive impairment (or MCI) is diagnosed at a doctor’s office and it suggests that clarity of thought is not quite right. Signs of mild cognitive impairment can include losing things often, forgetting to go to events or appointments, and having more trouble coming up with words than other people of the same age. There are a few different things that can cause mild cognitive impairment, including vitamin B12 deficiency or thyroid disease, along with certain medications.
Experts suggest that this is thought to be the first study to consider whether someone’s beliefs about aging can influence their recovery from mild cognitive impairment. It’s important to point out that the study didn’t find that positive thinking about aging made a person’s mild cognitive impairment go away. Instead, the researchers found that there was a link between people who had a more positive outlook on aging and recovering from mild cognitive impairment.
Mild cognitive impairment can be an early sign of more serious memory issues, so it’s important to follow up with a doctor every six to 12 months who can keep track of changes in your memory and thinking skills. It may be worth trying to add positive thinking about aging into the mix as it can lead to better health habits. Experts suggest challenging yourself to see how you would respond if a loved one had the same thoughts, being mindful of the language you use when you speak about yourself, and keeping an age-belief journal to become more aware of what is said about older people. A positive outlook generally extends life expectancy and is always the right answer.
In conclusion, the power of positivity cannot be overstated. This study provides further evidence that maintaining a positive attitude towards aging can have long-lasting benefits for our cognitive abilities. By embracing aging as a natural and positive part of life, we can not only improve our mental clarity and cognitive function, but also enhance our overall sense of well-being. So let’s celebrate our age and the wisdom and experience that comes with it, and approach each day with a positive and open mindset. After all, age is just a number, but a positive outlook on life can truly be life-changing.
