How much does attitude affect our overall wellness? From common observations and from what studies suggest, those who see the glass as half-full may be experiencing health benefits.
At Acacia Creek, a Certified Center for Successful Aging, and retirement community, residents and staff focus on achieving optimal health by growing the whole person – intellectually, socially, physically, and spiritually. A positive view on aging touches upon all four of these successful aging components, benefitting both the body and mind.
Research has shown that people with positive views on aging are 44 percent more likely to fully recover from a severe medical setback than those with negative age stereotypes. Many factors contribute to a person’s recovery, and while recent studies haven’t proved that a positive attitude about aging makes a difference, they still suggest that there’s a special connection between people with positive age stereotypes and their road to recovery from an injury.
“A person’s attitude about aging says a lot about how much they believe their health is under their own control,” wrote Mayo Clinic researchers. This means seniors that are active may be more likely to live a healthy lifestyle, stay current with medical appointments, and take medications as prescribed – which may lead to better overall health and less stress. Conversely, those who believe that aging causes illness and frailty may believe that failing health is inevitable, making them less likely to practice crucial preventive care and therefore becoming more susceptible to declining health.
Research is on the side of successful aging, too: A recent University of Chicago study showed that “chronological age has almost no role in accounting for differences in older adults’ health and well-being.” Researchers found that factors such as sensory function, mental health, mobility, and health behaviors were key indicators of overall health and a better predictor of mortality than high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
We all experience loss, disease, or illness in our lives. The trick is not letting negative circumstances define who we are – especially as we age. Fortunately for Acacia Creek residents, living in a community with like-minded people who also believe in aging successfully can make a huge difference .
Acacia Creek Retirement Community inspires residents to live an active, meaningful life. Our mission as a senior community is to enrich the independence, well-being, and security of our residents through exceptional services and care based on Masonic values.
To learn more about Acacia Creek or our senior housing opportunities, contact us at www.acaciacreek.org/contact
