Yes...optimism helps

 

Reflecting a little more on ageing, is it true that those who write about ageing successfully are generally on the inside of the subject?  Some have breezed through their seventies (the so-called young old) and remain active in their eighties (the ‘old-old’).  They may never have suffered serious illness or, if they did, it is in the past.  Very significantly, they are active in mind.  No signs of any form of dementia.  Probably they are spared money worries and most importantly of all, they have relationships that give them pleasure - family, friends, neighbours, and church. A lively social network is widely regarded as essential for a satisfying life.  All these positives perhaps explain how they are able to write about ageing in the first place!  Writing requires a degree of determination and optimism.  

Research published in 2019 by the University of Boston connected levels of optimism with long life. The most optimistic men and women increased their lifespan by 11-15 percent.  They had 50-70 percent great odds of reaching the age of 85 compared with those in the less optimistic groups.  The study included many other factors such as chronic diseases, educational attainment, alcohol use, exercise and diet.  Research suggested that more optimistic people may be able to regulate emotions and behaviour and bounce back from stress and difficulties more easily.  The oldest man in Britain was interviewed recently and asked for his reason for his long life he attributed it to ‘being happy.’  ‘When I look at life I see things that make me happy’ he said, a big smile on his face.  Well, some of us want to say ‘Hurrah for optimists' bur what about those who have suffered serious illness, dementia and have not been spared money worries?  

I am acutely aware of those to whom life has not been kind and enter older age rather battered down, often through suffering.  What other things can be said?