Sam Peet
“I’m 87. I don’t feel 87, I don’t think like I’m 87,” Elaine Neuwirth confidently stated on TikTok. “The most important thing is to get involved… interact with other people… have a purpose. Get up and move… Be part of the world.”
Her inspiring message, which has reached 3.6 million viewers, underscores a mounting scientific understanding that longevity is not solely determined by diet and exercise; your mental wellness plays a crucial role too. While it’s true that past unhealthy habits can’t be outrun, evidence suggests it’s never too late to benefit from minor psychological adjustments.
This article is part of a special issue exploring how to enhance the health and happiness of our later years. Read more here
Starting with our relationships, the significant role they play in our well-being is best illustrated by the longest-running study on human life, the Harvard Study of Adult Development. Since 1938, this research has monitored 724 boys and young men, alongside over 1300 descendants, to unravel what contributes to a flourishing life, both physically and mentally.
Mark Schultz, the study’s associate director, highlights that high-quality relationships emerge as key indicators of health and happiness in later life. For example, one analysis revealed that men with greater positive social interactions during midlife exhibited a lower risk of depression and improved cognitive functions in old age.
“People we’re close to assist us in problem-solving and regulating tough emotions,” Schultz explains. “Having close relationships calms the body in fundamental ways.” Social connections influence our hormonal levels, immune responses, and even gene expression.
Impact on the Immune System
Strong relationships have been shown to expedite physical healing; studies indicate that individuals with closer friendships maintain a more robust immune system as well as a higher number of immune cells that are resistant to aging, suggesting that social interactions can rejuvenate immune functionality.
Friendships also appear to affect the activity of genes linked with cellular aging and the body’s stress mitigation systems. Since chronic stress is a significant factor in conditions like heart disease and Alzheimer’s, the long-term benefits are substantial. An analysis of 148 studies on social connectivity and longevity found that individuals with stronger social ties had a 50 percent greater likelihood of surviving longer.
How many relationships suffice, you ask? Schultz suggests a simple inquiry: think of someone you’d reach out to if you felt unwell or scared at night. If no one springs to mind, loneliness could pose a health risk, correlating with depression, heart diseases, and cognitive decline. The detrimental effects of loneliness on health can outweigh those of obesity.
“The stress caused by loneliness can trigger similar physiological responses found in chronic medical conditions, leading to long-term inflammation and compromised immunity,” states Ashwini Nadkarni from Harvard Medical School. “Thus, fostering a sense of community is crucial as we age.”
Positive social connections and a clear purpose in life significantly affect longevity.
Cavan Images/Alamy
Fortunately, countering loneliness doesn’t require extensive therapy. Clinical psychologist Katherine Schafer from Vanderbilt University Medical Center suggests two actionable steps: contribute positively to someone else’s life and allow others to help you. “Start small—did you spot a new parent drop a toddler’s shoe? Just pick it up and hand it to them. This simple act can create a meaningful connection,” she advises. “Letting others assist you also fosters rapport, building a bridge against loneliness.”
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Purpose – something that gives your life direction or makes it feel meaningful – can keep you alive for longer
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In addition to strengthening social ties, nurturing a sense of purpose is essential. While purpose may seem nebulous or unscientific, there is increasing recognition that having a sense of meaning in life can contribute to longevity.
Studies link having a purpose with a lowered risk of chronic diseases and increased longevity. Although the exact processes are still being explored, purpose is believed to reduce stress and encourage healthier habits. But can you discover purpose later in life?
Research by Eric Kim at the University of British Columbia analyzed data from nearly 13,000 Americans over 50. The results indicated that those who discovered a greater sense of purpose over eight years enjoyed increased physical activity, reduced sleep issues, and decreased risks of strokes and mortality.
Fostering a Positive Attitude
Combatting negative perceptions of aging can also be beneficial. A 2022 study of nearly 14,000 US adults aged 50 and older reported that those with a positive outlook on aging had a 43 percent lower risk of dying from any cause over four years compared to those with negative views.
Additionally, various studies have demonstrated the impact of mindset on health: shifting from negative thinking can alleviate chronic stress, while a more optimistic outlook can help reduce cardiovascular risks.
Laying the groundwork for a long and fruitful life involves dedication. Hence, prioritize not only diet and exercise but also psychological wellness. Whether by reaching out to friends, embracing the aging process, or reflecting on meaningful experiences, follow Neuwirth’s advice to actively engage with the world; it may just extend your time in it.
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