The secret to healthy aging may be how we view age

A new study from Yale University brings an encouraging message: aging does not necessarily mean an inevitable decline in physical and mental health, writes The New York Post.

Researchers followed people over 65 for 12 years, assessing walking speed and cognitive functions, such as short-term memory and math skills. At the end of the study, 45 percent of the participants showed improvement in mental, physical, or both abilities.

The main factor that distinguished these people was a positive attitude towards aging. They disagreed with statements such as: “The older I get, the more useless I feel”, and agreed with: “I am as happy now as I was when I was younger”.

“If this result were extended to the entire US population, it would mean that more than 26 million older adults are experiencing improvement in their functioning. The dominant narrative that presents aging as a period of inevitable and universal decline needs to be reexamined,” the study reports.

Walking, one of the most important indicators of health

Walking speed was used as an indicator of physical condition, because it is considered the “sixth vital sign”. Walking requires the cooperation of the nervous system, heart, muscles and bones and is closely related to longevity.

Studies show that people who walk faster have a significantly lower risk of dying from any cause compared to those who walk slower.

How to keep your brain sharp?

Experts recommend regular walks, moderate physical activity, solving crosswords and puzzles, learning new skills, stimulating conversations, regular hearing, vision and blood pressure checks.

“It’s about small, ongoing choices that support health over time. And remember: You’re never too young or too old to take care of your brain,” said Dr. Allison Sekuler of the Baycrest Academy for Research and Education.