Attitude Toward Aging Can Be An Important Factor In Cognitive Well-being

Aging individuals and those who care about them will want to take note of the March

, 2010, Archives of General Psychiatry. The publication reports a study that reveals significant relationships between the attitudes of older people and their quality of life. Individuals who indicate that they feel their lives are purposeful have a diminished probability of developing memory loss and Alzheimer's disease.

Dementia is one of the most frightening potential outcomes of aging. In that context, these are very important research findings. Any time we can identify a factor that contributes to Alzheimer's disease and can be reduced, reducing that factor becomes a major concern for older individuals, those who care for them, and the entire society. When we take this research in the context of our rapidly expanding older population we can sense the urgent need to change factors that are available to improve the aging process. A strong sense of purpose clearly seems to be a major factor.

For purposes of this study, purpose in life was defined as "the l tendency to get meaning from the experiences of life and to have a sense of mindfulness and goal-orientation that directs one's behavior." This definition creates a major irony. North American cultures have come to associate aging primarily with declining health, immobility, and diminishing economic returns. In other words, we do old people as expensive to maintain while, at the same time, providing very little economic productivity. Since we tend to view the economic value of individuals as very important, we have a negative view of aging.

this traditional understanding of aging would be sad even if it was true. In human history, most societies have revered elders for what they have provided to society during the course of their lives, and for their wisdom. The greater costs and lower productivity of older persons is considered a normal part of the generational process.

Moreover, to a large degree the perception of older persons as economic liabilities is based on outdated facts, especially in North America. Actually, our aging population is in better health and his more potential productivity than in the past. nonetheless, as the study shows, many of the advantages of communication, information, and medical technology will be lost to our elderly because they will not seek them out.

Because today's elderly folks experienced the irony of low expectations, they are not likely to seek out a greater purpose for their lives. This prevents individuals and society from experiencing the health benefits that come from positive attitudes toward aging. This will no doubt change over a few decades. The reality of a healthier and happier senior population will eventually impact their expectations. Nevertheless, until that time those of us who clearly understand their potential need to encourage them to continue to pursue the same goals in their aging years as they did when they were younger. Improved mental, physical and spiritual health will richly reward our entire society.

by: Darrell McAlister

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