SMILES BETTER

IS A POSITIVE MINDSET THE SECRET TO HAVING BETTER HEALTH OUTCOMES LATER ON IN LIFE?

- By Camilla Foster

A RECENT study revealed individuals who have a positive attitude towards ageing tend to recover better after experiencing a fall.

Researchers from Imperial College London and Coventry University analysed data from 694 adults aged between 60 and 90 and reviewed information related to falls, as well as survey responses that reflected participants' attitudes and beliefs about ageing. The findings showed that those with the most optimistic views on ageing were 162% less likely to exhibit slow walking speeds, 200% less likely to rely on others for everyday activities, and 123% less likely to become inactive after a fall compared to those with more negative perceptions of ageing.

So could a positive mindset around ageing influence other health outcomes?

PHYSICAL FUNCTION

"People with a positive outlook are more likely to stay active, which is one of the most impactful steps individuals can take to ensure a healthier future and a chance to maintain independence," says Dr Lis Boulton, health and care policy manager at Age UK.