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Optimism and Healthy Aging in Women
Peter James1, Eric S Kim2, Laura D Kubzansky2
1Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.
American Journal of Preventive Medicine
|December 22, 2018
Summary
Optimism, the expectation that good things will happen, is linked to a greater chance of healthy aging. This study found optimistic women were more likely to remain disease-free and maintain physical and cognitive function.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Optimism, defined as expecting positive outcomes, is recognized as a health asset.
- Research indicates optimism correlates with healthier behaviors and reduced disease risk.
- While optimism is linked to lower mortality, its impact on healthy aging requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if higher optimism is associated with an increased likelihood of healthy aging.
- To explore optimism as a potential modifiable factor for improving health in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Prospective data from 33,326 women in the Nurses' Health Study were analyzed.
- Optimism was assessed via self-report questionnaires in 2004.
- Healthy aging, defined by disease absence, cognitive and physical function, and survival, was assessed in 2012.
Main Results:
- Over 20% of participants met the criteria for healthy aging.
- Women in the highest optimism quartile showed a 23% greater likelihood of healthy aging compared to the least optimistic.
- This association remained significant after adjusting for sociodemographic factors and depression.
Conclusions:
- Higher optimism is significantly associated with a greater likelihood of healthy aging.
- Optimism may serve as a valuable, modifiable target for interventions aimed at promoting healthy aging.
- Further research into optimism's role in aging health is warranted.
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