Old Age and Happiness: Attitude is Everything

Old age is often referred to as "the golden years." But in reality, for many, they are years of poverty, deterioration, loneliness, and extreme illness. In the American culture, which is so youth oriented, the elderly have become invisible, and are greatly devalued by society.

Yet many seniors still find great joy in living. According to a recent study, attitude is the most important factor. 500 Americans, between the ages of 60 and 98 were studied. They all lived independently, and had experienced many illnesses including, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, mental health conditions, and various other health concerns. They were asked to rate themselves on successful aging, on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 being the best. Surprisingly enough, in spite of their health problems, the average rating was 8.4. Dilip Jeste, lead researcher, of the University of California at San Diego, stated, "These findings suggest that physical health is not the best indicator of successful aging-attitude is." The medical community has always regarded a low occurrence of disease and disability as the primary determining factors in successful aging. But according to Jeste's research, optimism and good coping techniques may prove more valuable.

Old age can be a time to reinvent yourself, to find a different focus or career, to try new things, and to realize past dreams. In fact, many actors, scientists, politicians, statesmen, teachers, writers, and Nobel Peace Prize winners have been most productive in their senior years. Mother Teresa was almost 70 when she received her Nobel Peace Prize. Benjamin Franklin was 70 when he helped edit the Declaration of Independence, and 81 when he signed the Constitution of the United States.

The senior years provide a wonderful opportunity to be a mentor-to impart the knowledge that life has given you. Youthful thinking can be an inspiration to the old, and the wisdom of age can bring great enlightenment to the young.

According to PsychologyToday, there are 4 traits that are common to happy people of all ages: they like themselves, they are positive thinkers, they are outgoing, and they have a sense of personal control. Attitude is everything. Good self esteem, optimism, being an extrovert, and having the ability to be independent contribute greatly to happiness in old age. Apparently, if you want to be happy, you need to act happy. Studies have shown that even going through the motions of smiling and pretending optimism can make you feel better.

It is also important to develop close relationships. Those with several supportive friends seem to experience greater health and happiness. Often in the retirement years, people have lost many friendships from their workplace, and feel isolated. It is essential to cultivate lasting relationships earlier in life, that will be a great comfort to you in the years to come. Being able to confide in a close friend enables a person to feel relaxed and at peace. Some psychologists believe that when there are few social connections, greater depression occurs. Friendships provide support in difficult times, and enhance your life experience. Never overlook a chance to make a new friend.

A spiritual connection is also helpful. According to research in Europe and North America, religiously active people are happier than those who are not religiously involved. In study after study, elderly people report being happier when they are active in a church or religious setting, and widows who worship regularly also report more joy in their lives. Again, there is a vital network of social support in the spiritual community, as well as purpose in reaching out to others.

Rest and exercise are also necessary for a cheerful outlook. When you awaken refreshed, you have the energy needed to pursue your goals. Lack of sleep can contribute to depression and other physical illnesses. Aerobic exercise can also help in relieving anxiety and mild depression. Surveys show that people are in better spirits and experience less stress when they exercise.

Living in the present moment is vital to happiness. Each day can be a gift and an adventure, if you delight in every opportunity. Happiness can be found in reading an enjoyable book, engaging in a pleasant conversation, or sharing a good meal.

Laura Carstensen, director of the Standford Center of Longevity, has found that people generally get happier as they age. She contributes the greater happiness to a desire to make the most of the time left. Concerning her research, she stated, "When people perceive time is limited, they focus more on well being." She found that the frequency of negative emotions declines in old age, as well as the duration. Research by Gene Cohen, a psychiatrist, gerontologist, and director of George Washington University's Center on Aging, Health and Humanities, supports this theory. He found that brain function changes as a person ages. Imaging studies have shown that older people's brains react less intensely, and for less time, to negative emotions. This contributes to increased morale in old age. Older people become more experienced in handling problems and challenges, and they may have also lowered their expectations, thereby making it easier to experience happiness.

Robert Butler, president of the International Longevity Center in New York, states that a longer life span is correlated with people continuing to engage in activities that they feel are important. Taking care of a grandchild, or doing volunteer work, may be life enhancing during the retirement years, giving the person a feeling of achievement and productivity. It is important to stay active, find meaningful purpose, and to keep learning.

To a great degree, true happiness comes from within. Some of the most beautiful people I have ever known were elderly. They seemed to have a radiance that reflected from a life well lived. It has been said that "the happy person sees rainbows everywhere." It stands to reason that the opposite is also true. The unhappy person only sees rain. Outlook is so vital to satisfaction in life. Nothing external can give you the peace and calmness that comes from inner joy. So if you desire to age gracefully, and happily, attitude is everything.

Sources: http://www.livescience.com/health/051212_aging_happy.html
http://library.thinkquest.org/22254/home.htm
http://psychologytoday.com/articles/index.php?term=pto-19930701-000026&page=2
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/here-key-ingredients-staying-happy/story.aspx?guid=%7BFD3F3A18%2D7DF3%2D4BF5%2DA3A3%2DB6438317E693%7D&dist=morenews