Good News About Aging, Health, and Resilience
Although the elderly face many challenges such as declines in physical health and mobility and losses, such as the death of a spouse, friends or siblings, most cope well and are resilient, studies find. In fact, although the incidence of depression among the elderly is significantly heightened, it is still the exception rather than the rule. And among those who are depressed, treatment has been found to be effective for many.
We all know that our population is aging, but did you know that the elderly are more fit than in years past? A Duke University study of Medicare costs found them falling among today’s elderly in all age groups due to improvements in physical fitness and declines in chronic disorders. And while genetics is a factor in aging, studies of twins have found that only about 30 to 50 percent of aging can be accounted for by genes. The rest appears to be related to psychosocial and lifestyle factors. The good news? Psychosocial and lifestyle factors can be modified through education and therapy.
Did you know that the most psychologically resilient elderly are those who maintain an optimistic attitude about life? In fact, optimists tend to stay in better physical health as well – perhaps because they are more apt to be proactive in terms of their own health care, or perhaps because their optimistic attitude helps them to be less stressed and to find more constructive solutions to life’s problems. Although some cognitive decline over time is the norm, researchers have found that lifestyle factors such as exercise, social activities, learning new skills, and exposure to new stimuli help keep the brain functioning at an optimal level. Mindset (for example, negative stereotypes about what it means to get old) can have a powerful effect on functioning as well. Studies at Harvard University of nursing home residents found that negative stereotypes about aging reduced memory function, self-confidence, and physical signs of aging such as shuffle or foot-dragging, whereas positive stereotypes increased memory function self-confidence and decreased shuffle.
Self-efficacy or a "can-do" attitude predicts better functioning in older adults. These individuals tend to be involved in more activities, have more social interactions, and greater stimulation. Social support, having positive relationships with friends and family, is another powerful factor in the lives of older people. Elderly who have the lowest levels of social support are four times more likely to die than those who have high levels of social support. And if you’re still doubtful about the importance of psychological factors on health, a recent study found that among heart attack victims, the best predictor of survival was not physical factors (such as cholesterol level or severity of their heart attack) but how optimistic the individual was!
Perhaps surprisingly, another factor that has been found to be related to better functioning in advancing years is pet ownership. Why? Perhaps for many of the reasons stated above. Having a pet provides stimulation, companionship, and an opportunity to feel needed and important. Meeting these basic human psychological needs helps nourish and motivate us and keeps us feeling vital and alive.
Depression in the elderly is treatable and should be NEVER be seen as a "normal" or acceptable consequence of aging. No one should suffer with depression when effective treatments are available. Remember, if you are depressed, talk to someone who can help. It’s your life. Make every minute count.
Dr. LoPresti is in private practice in Montclair, NJ, is a co-author, with Edward Zuckerman, Ph.D. of an upcoming Guilford Press book on practice specializations. She is also the Editor of the Division 42 Website. Questions or comments can be addressed to her at lopresti8@comcast.net