Reflections on a journey towards positive ageing – Part II

Appreciation is a means by which an individual articulates his or her sentiments towards another for a commendable quality inherent in that individual.

- BY A. K. SENEVIRATNE A FORMER SENIOR TUTOR, PUBIC HEALTH, NIHS, KALUTARA (CONTINUED FROM YESTERDAY)

The act of appreciating another often emerges as a spontaneous response to what one deems worthy of acknowledgment. Moments of appreciation wield a profound influence on the positive aging process.

Individuals express their admiration for talents, expertise, achievements, philanthropy, and other virtues through various forms of praise, rewards, and the accommodation of differing perspectives, contingent upon specific circumstances.

Ponder for a moment the myriad reasons for which we ought to express gratitude and appreciation for the intricate ecosystem—the sun, the moon, the air we breathe, the water sources and the diverse flora and fauna that flourish in nature, all of which sustain our very existence. A person with an optimistic outlook on life cultivates qualities that serve as vital sustenance for a fulfilling existence.

Social support

Helps one to lift his/her spirit. We are social animals and together live in this life. If we help each other as we age, we can experience joy rather than suffering. This is the power of us. Life can be wonderful in our senior years if we have a support network. Together we can make a difference. Nobody lives in isolation; life is a group outing.

Social neuroscience researcher Matthew Lieberman and psychologist Pamela Rutledge are among those who argue that the heart of our needs is not food, shelter, and warmth, as with Maslow’s model of needs but social bonds, social connections, and collaboration. Imagine Maslow’s pyramid as a wheel instead, with connection at the centre of it stresses the importance of social connections above other needs. It is argued that Maslow's hierarchy of needs doesn't give enough credit to the role of social connection. The author argues that Maslow’s hierarchy of needs while useful overlooks the importance of social connection.