For women, an optimistic attitude could be a key factor in maintaining physical health later in life, according to a new study published in JAMA Psychiatry.
Study Overview
The six-year study included 5,930 women aged 65 and older. Throughout the study, participants completed the Life Orientation Test–Revised, a standardized assessment of optimism, as well as performance-based assessments of physical function, including grip strength, walking speed, and chair stands.
Key Findings
- Optimism was linked to better physical function at baseline and a slower decline over time.
- Optimistic women were less likely to develop impairments in indicators of physical performance.
- The associations between optimism and physical function remained significant even after adjusting for health behaviors, depression, demographics, and socioeconomic factors.
Why it Matters
As people live longer, preserving physical function is key to maintaining independence and quality of life. This study suggests that optimism - a mindset that can be strengthened - may help slow age-related physical decline. Supporting psychological well-being could be a simple way to promote healthier aging across diverse populations.
Takeaways
Staying physically strong as you age isn't just about exercise - it may also be about mindset. This study suggests that optimism could help maintain better physical function over time. Simple habits to support both your outlook and physical health include:
- Practice daily gratitude or journaling to boost optimism.
- Stay socially connected through volunteering, clubs, or faith-based groups.
- Engage in regular movement, even light activities like walking or chair exercises.
- Talk to a healthcare provider about stress-reduction or cognitive-behavioral strategies to build resilience and positivity.
Read the Study: JAMA Psychiatry
