Aging; the New Happy Pill?

Written by Kathryn Savage

As we grow old our memory may decline, but our ability to see the bright side may take the opposite course. According to a recent study, as we age, we begin to see things in a more positive light.

While happiness doesn’t necessarily prevent against age related disease like Alzheimer's and Dementia, according to recent research out of the Stanford Center on Longevity, there are more positive memory changes that happen when we age, than we once thought.

“Older people tend to be happier. While they might not remember names as well as younger people, new research into cognitive functioning shows an uncanny ability to focus on the positive in life.”

People, unlike computers, process information based largely on personal goals rather than formulas or facts. Think of it like this, you’re terrible when it comes to remembering names, then you meet someone really cute, charming, the whole bit, and boy, do you learn their name quick! Basically, when we want something, we think about it, focus on it, it becomes a personal goal, and what we set as goals, these are some of the forces that drive memory.

What does this have to do with aging?
According to researchers at Stanford, “as we age, our goals tend to change — toward achieving emotional well-being...”

Another factor is time, or lack of it. Researchers comment that: “As older people realize they have less time available, they change their goals,...” And:
“They’re more concerned about short-term emotional well-being. They put more importance on relationships. Younger people put how they feel on hold in order to reach long-term goals.”

Goals, focus on relationships, appreciating time with family and friends. Sounds pretty good so why wait for your biological clock to jump start your bliss? Start thinking of that glass as half full, set good goals, and get happy!

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