How You Approach Aging Can Significantly Impact Your Well-Being

When it comes to your perspective on aging, do you tend to see the glass as half full or half empty? Your answer has more significance than you may realize.

Those with a positive outlook on aging see their later years as a time of growth, learning, and relationship-building. Often, these people are more in control of the physical aging process.

If your mindset isn't looking as bright, here's your chance to make the most of your retirement!

The power of positive thinking
According to a growing body of research, having a positive attitude about aging can benefit your health, happiness, and well-being.

The Mather Institute, a research organization focused on issues that impact seniors, found in a study that older adults with positive perceptions of aging live an average of 7.5 years longer, engage in more preventative healthy behaviors, enjoy greater life satisfaction, make more friends, and feel more social support.

Another study on positivity and aging--conducted by a consortium of universities--found that people with a positive perspective on aging were more inclined to engage in proactive health practices, such as cancer screenings and physical activity.

This sets in motion a cycle of "self-fulfilling prophecies," further reinforcing beneficial outcomes.

"There's a connection between mindsets and health behaviors. One leads to the other," says Eric Kim, assistant professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, and a senior investigator on the study.

A plan for the future
A recent survey by Age Wave and The Harris Poll shows that 71% of Americans over 65 say the best time of their lives is right in front of them, and 66% see retirement as a new chapter in life.

Naureen Schnee is among the majority. For her, retirement is full of promise and opportunity; it's just as exciting as other phases in life.

However, she understands that aging often comes with a need for more support, so she wanted to plan for a future where she could live life to the fullest and not burden her sons if additional care was ever needed.  

When Naureen started exploring her senior living options, she was looking for a vibrant retirement community with a continuum of care, an abundance of activities, and amenities to support her well-being.

"I wanted the kind of place where I could come and go as I please, and also where I could find just about everything I might need within the community," she says. "I looked at many places, including Ann's Choice, and it impressed me so much because of all the things available there."

An engaging lifestyle
Since moving to Ann's Choice, an Erickson Senior Living community in Bucks County, Pa., four years ago, Naureen has had no shortage of opportunities to get involved in activities.

She's also been active in a number of committees, including the Resident Advisory Council's Well-Being Committee.

"My mother used to say, 'Have a purpose and grow old gracefully,'" says Naureen. "So, I get up every day and ask, 'What am I going to do?' I think it's important to have a goal each day. And here at Ann's Choice, there are so many offerings."

She's most proud of the work she's done to establish a group for proud pet parents at the community.

"I started the Feather and Fur Babies Pet Club soon after I moved here," she notes. "Having a pet is crucial to my well-being."

Gladly giving back
Naureen continues her long-standing commitment to volunteer work as well.

In 2023, she was honored with a Gold Presidents Volunteer Service Award for the 500-plus volunteer hours she put in at Ann's Choice and the American Red Cross.

"I love how much pleasure I get from volunteering," says Naureen. "Having a positive attitude and a purpose makes a big difference in how you approach your day. I still have a great deal of value left in my life, so I want to try and accomplish things."

She adds, "People need to understand that even in their later years, and even with diminished abilities, they are still worth it. There is still a lot they can accomplish."

Request a brochure to learn more about how a move to an Erickson Senior Living community can support your health and well-being.