Positive Thinking Can Enhance Your Well-Being

Can an optimistic outlook truly enhance your physical and mental health? Yes, according to "Perceptions of Aging," a recent research report from the Mather Institute, an internationally recognized resource for information on wellness, aging, and trends in senior living.

The research explored how perceptions of aging shape our life in meaningful ways. It found that people who have a positive outlook on aging tend to live longer, encounter fewer illnesses, have greater agility, and experience enhanced psychological well-being. 

Researchers also found that those who embrace an optimistic outlook on aging often engage in more preventive healthy behaviors, such as eating a balanced diet and being physically active. 

If you don't think you're someone who sees aging in a positive light, it's never too late to change your mindset. 

In fact, Dr. Vrinda Suneja, medical director at Fox Run, an Erickson Senior Living community in Novi, Mich., has seen firsthand how moving to a continuing care retirement community brings a burst of positivity to new residents.

Positivity in action

Throughout our lives, we encounter a mix of both positive and negative stereotypes about older adults and the aging experience. Some of these perceptions shed light on common age-related changes, while others perpetuate misconceptions. 

As people grow older, many find that certain stereotypes resonate more and more with their own experiences. They often see reflections of themselves in these ideas, which influence how they perceive their aging journey. 

"Our thoughts influence our beliefs, our beliefs influence our behavior, and our behavior influences our actions," explains Suneja. "So, a person who is stuck in that negative thought process can only see the worst-case scenario and is unlikely to be proactive in managing their health and well-being."

However, the Mather Institute study highlights that older adulthood can be viewed as a chapter of ongoing growth and learning. While this mindset shift might seem difficult, it's easier to adapt when you're surrounded by peers who value your life experiences. 

"When people move here, they find they have a much more robust social life. Being around your peers, people who have shared similar experiences growing up or in their lifetime, creates a feeling of camaraderie," says Suneja, who boasts a 21-year tenure at Fox Run. 

Refreshing resiliency

Suneja also notes that there is a wealth of research in mind-body medicine that supports the impact of positivity, resilience, and stress management on quality of life and the reduction of disease. 

In 2021, close to 100 residents from four Erickson Senior Living communities participated in the "Embrace Well-Being and Flourish" study. This inspiring initiative utilized a specialized curriculum designed to equip residents with practical tools for enhancing their resilience and managing stress.

The results showed statistically significant changes among participants, including increases in positive emotions, resilience, and coping skills, as well as decreases in distress and social isolation.

Now, a similar program, "Embrace Well-Being and Blossom," offers residents of Erickson Senior Living communities the opportunity to work on positivity, mindfulness, and stress management with the overall goal of improving participants' resilience. 

"Seniors don't get to be seniors without having learned the value of positivity and resilience, but no matter how much life teaches us about how to take care of ourselves, it's always nice to get a refresher on the importance of resiliency," says Suneja. 

Attitudes towards aging 

A separate survey by AARP revealed that over 80% of participants age 50 and older remain optimistic about their future, and 86% reported feeling happy. Interestingly, those in their 60s indicated higher levels of happiness than their counterparts in their 50s.

Clearly, positivity is a growing trend, with an increasing number of people believing that when it comes to aging, the best is yet to come. 

"In many cases, an inability to see the positive takes away the motivation to get to what could be a much better place," says Suneja.

Easy ways to thrive

At Erickson Senior Living communities, residents have the opportunity to adopt healthy lifestyles that include regular exercise, a balanced diet, engaging activities and clubs, and a fulfilling social life. 

The benefits of these healthy habits enhance people's positive outlook on aging and support them in their journey toward well-being. 

"Fox Run residents appreciate being part of a vibrant community," says Suneja. "Many saw their move as a chance to make the most of retirement--try new hobbies, make new friends, or learn something new. Now, they're thriving, all thanks to an open mind about aging."

Request a brochure to learn how you can live a healthier, happier life at an Erickson Senior Living community.