Old age is often referred to as "the golden years." But in reality, for many, they are years of poverty, deterioration, loneliness, and extreme illness. In the American culture, which is so youth oriented, the elderly have become invisible, and are greatly devalued by society.
Yet many seniors still find great joy in living. According to a recent study, attitude is the most important factor. 500 Americans, between the ages of 60 and 98 were studied. They all lived independently, and had experienced many illnesses including, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, mental health conditions, and various other health concerns. They were asked to rate themselves on successful aging, on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 being the best. Surprisingly enough, in spite of their health problems, the average rating was 8.4. Dilip Jeste, lead researcher, of the University of California at San Diego, stated, "These findings suggest that physical health is not the best indicator of successful aging-attitude is." The medical community has always regarded a low occurrence of disease and disability as the primary determining factors in successful aging. But according to Jeste's research, optimism and good coping techniques may prove more valuable.
Old age can be a time to reinvent yourself, to find a different focus or career, to try new things, and to realize past dreams. In fact, many actors, scientists, politicians, statesmen, teachers, writers, and Nobel Peace Prize winners have been most productive in their senior years. Mother Teresa was almost 70 when she received her Nobel Peace Prize. Benjamin Franklin was 70 when he helped edit the Declaration of Independence, and 81 when he signed the Constitution of the United States.
The senior years provide a wonderful opportunity to be a mentor-to impart the knowledge that life has given you. Youthful thinking can be an inspiration to the old, and the wisdom of age can bring great enlightenment to the young.
Yet many seniors still find great joy in living. According to a recent study, attitude is the most important factor. 500 Americans, between the ages of 60 and 98 were studied. They all lived independently, and had experienced many illnesses including, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, mental health conditions, and various other health concerns. They were asked to rate themselves on successful aging, on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 being the best. Surprisingly enough, in spite of their health problems, the average rating was 8.4. Dilip Jeste, lead researcher, of the University of California at San Diego, stated, "These findings suggest that physical health is not the best indicator of successful aging-attitude is." The medical community has always regarded a low occurrence of disease and disability as the primary determining factors in successful aging. But according to Jeste's research, optimism and good coping techniques may prove more valuable.
Old age can be a time to reinvent yourself, to find a different focus or career, to try new things, and to realize past dreams. In fact, many actors, scientists, politicians, statesmen, teachers, writers, and Nobel Peace Prize winners have been most productive in their senior years. Mother Teresa was almost 70 when she received her Nobel Peace Prize. Benjamin Franklin was 70 when he helped edit the Declaration of Independence, and 81 when he signed the Constitution of the United States.
The senior years provide a wonderful opportunity to be a mentor-to impart the knowledge that life has given you. Youthful thinking can be an inspiration to the old, and the wisdom of age can bring great enlightenment to the young.
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