What is your attitude toward the aging process? Do you see it as a meaningful stage of life to be embraced, or as an unwelcome burden to be endured?
Recently I read an inspiring 2017 reflection by oilman T. Boone Pickens in which he describes his experience in what he calls life’s “fourth quarter.” After surviving several strokes that required extensive speech therapy and a serious fall that led to hospitalization, Pickens confronts his own mortality with clarity. Yet at 90 years old he remains energized and engaged. “Be the eternal optimist who is excited to see what the next decade will bring,” he writes. “I remain excited every day, engaged and thrilled in the office and on the road. I thrive on that activity, and I’m going to stick to it, no matter the setback.”
Pickens’ outlook is remarkable and motivating, but not everyone meets aging with the same optimism.
How ageism distorts views on aging
Ageism is a growing social concern, and I have written about it frequently. A large international study, the World Values Survey (WVS), collected responses from more than 83,000 people across 57 countries about attitudes toward older adults. The World Health Organization’s analysis of that data found that 60 percent of respondents felt older people are not respected, with the lowest respect levels often reported in higher-income countries.
These negative perceptions have serious consequences. Research from Yale University’s department of epidemiology and public health examined the long-term health effects of ageism and found that negative attitudes about aging can shorten lives. In a study of 660 people aged 50 and older, those who held more positive views about aging lived an average of 7.5 years longer than peers with negative perceptions. When older adults feel like a burden, they are more likely to experience depression and social isolation—factors that can significantly harm health and longevity.
The positive aging movement
While genetics influence some aspects of health, many elements of aging are within our control. The concept of positive or healthy aging emphasizes adopting a constructive view of growing older and making choices that support long-term well-being. Positive aging means actively working to maintain the things you love and value as you grow older—just as T. Boone Pickens worked to regain his speech after strokes and returned to his work, a career he still loves.
Not everyone has Pickens’ resources, so society and policymakers should support opportunities that enable people to age well. Investments in health services, community programs, and policies that support older adults are not mere expenses; they are investments in the health and ongoing contributions of older members of society.
Tips for positive aging
Dr. Manfred Diehl, a professor of human development and family studies at Colorado State University, researches successful and healthy aging. His work shows that changing negative beliefs about aging can encourage behaviors that promote well-being. He offers practical suggestions for fostering a positive attitude toward aging:
- Stay physically active: aim for at least 30 minutes of movement or exercise each day.
- Keep your mind engaged: pursue mentally challenging activities and lifelong learning.
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle: eat well, prioritize sleep, manage weight, and avoid excessive drinking or smoking.
- Maintain social connections: nurture relationships with partners, family, friends, neighbors, and people of different generations.
- Foster positive emotions: practice activities that promote gratitude, joy, and a positive view of your own age.
- Let go of minor frustrations: accept limitations, ask for help when necessary, and focus on what you can do.
- Set realistic goals: create meaningful objectives and take steps to achieve them.
- Manage stress: use healthy coping strategies and make time to relax and recharge.
- Use preventive health care: schedule regular check-ups, take advantage of screenings, and follow preventive advice from healthcare providers.
A positive outlook for a healthier life
T. Boone Pickens’ resilience and optimistic spirit illustrate how a constructive mindset can shape the experience of aging. If you find it difficult to stay positive about getting older, you’re not alone. By reframing your perspective and adopting practical habits like those recommended by Dr. Diehl, you can improve your physical and mental well-being. Over time, individual attitude shifts can influence broader cultural views about aging, helping society to recognize the value and potential of older adults.