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Do You Have a Positive View of Getting Older?


Social scientists say “aging gracefully” should not be just an expression but rather something people should take to heart as they enter their senior years. Maintaining a positive attitude as we age can help us better weather the many ups and downs we encounter along the journey.

A comprehensive study from the Yale School of Epidemiology and Public Health followed 660 seniors age 50 years and older and found those who held a more positive view on growing older lived on average 7.5 years longer than those with a negative view. Researchers added negative views on old age may even make someone more susceptible to developing the brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease. However, they report if a person shifts to a more positive way of thinking, the adverse outcome may be mitigated.

Dr. Manfred Diehl, professor of human development and family studies at Colorado State University, advises people on how to develop a more positive approach to aging. His first recommendation is to be physically active at least 30 minutes each day. Then he says to keep your brain active and challenge it by continuing to learn new things. Other tips include: get enough sleep each night, stop smoking, avoid excessive alcohol, maintain a healthy weight and follow a healthy diet. Dr. Diehl says a healthy social life is important and to nurture a healthy relationship with your spouse, family and friends.

Another positive step is to get regular medical check-ups and screenings. Additionally, protect your mental health by taking the time to relax, unwind and to have fun.

Let us introduce you to MorningStar of Kirkland, a senior community offering independent senior living in Kirkland, WA. Our property is in the forested Totem Lake area just 20 minutes from Seattle. We are close to the highly ranked Evergreen Health Medical Center and The Village at Totem Lake, with shopping, restaurants and entertainment. Our beautiful home is designed to meet all the needs of our residents with a range of luxury amenities, hospitality services, wellness programs, and activities. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Kirkland provides the very best in independent living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Kirkland, WA has to offer.
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