Older adults are contributing materially to our society as we work and live longer.  Yet most folks hold negative views about aging.  Even some baby boomers avoid talking about it, and tend to not identify as “older people”.  Now that I’ve turned 70 years old, I have a better appreciation of how negative attitudes toward aging have a detrimental effect on one’s health and the larger society’s view of what should be possible as we age.

I just read an article on key findings from an Irish Longitudinal Study on Aging.  The study surveyed older people regarding their attitudes about aging and physical function.  Among other findings, it noted the following:

  • Negative attitudes about aging affect both physical and cognitive health in one’s later years.  Participants in the study who held positive attitudes towards aging had improved cognitive ability as they aged.
  • Conversely, older adults with negative attitudes towards aging had slower walking speed and worse cognitive abilities two years later, compared to older adults with more positive attitudes towards aging.

My mother was fond of saying that attitude makes all the difference in how we deal with Life’s trials and tribulations.  This scholarly study tends to confirm Mom’s views.

As her daughter, I try to practice what she preached.  I tend to gravitate towards people who have a positive view of aging.  Indeed, many of my friends that are similar in age are happily challenging conventional views of aging and doing things that turn my head.  And if the pundits are right that many of us are likely to live to 100 years, we’ve got time to live the lives we want on our terms.  Amazing Care is dedicated to the principle that we have a right to age with control, independence and grace.  I like that and I think you will too, so plan for a smarter tomorrow and grow your positive network with us today!

~ Cora Tellez, CEO and Founder

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