Over Age 50?—Attitude Keeps You Young!

Over Age 50?—Attitude Keeps You Young!

By Aileen Brazeau

I’m always amazed by seniors and how they perceive life. I’ve been very fortunate to interview hundreds of seniors so I could write their life stories and what really has inspired me the most is their attitudes about life.

 Many of the people I have interviewed have lived through very tough times, but what they tell me is they are so very grateful for their lives and for everything they have. In fact, nearly every interview I have done, the senior has told me how grateful they are and many of the people I’ve interviewed are over 80-years-old. Their gratitude is a constant source of happiness. 

I know many of us fear aging and perceive it as a time when we will suffer from depression and despair but research shows that the opposite is actually more accurate. A recent study concluded that we actually get happier as we get older. 

According to the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States in a study authored by Arthur A. Stone, after the age of 50, worry, stress, and anger diminish while happiness increases dramatically. Isn’t that great news? 

Another recent nationwide survey of seniors found that being thankful was one of the most important factors in relieving anxiety, coping with fear, and for living a good life.

 Perhaps, with age we acquire the coping skills necessary to endure and thrive despite life’s obstacles. Many experts agree that it is high time for perceptions on aging to shift dramatically. 

There are surely unique challenges to aging that I’ve seen in many elders. The difference seems to be that they have overcome so many challenges s they've learned to roll with the punches. Health issues are definitely something that have to be contended with for many. The good news is that a positive attitude, and the ability to be flexible, keeps life interesting and satisfying.    

Another important element in the lives of happy people and especially happy seniors is their propensity for giving and being kind. Happiness is a gift that cannot be hid – it flows out to others. Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” 

Many of the seniors I know volunteer their time to help others. One group of ladies I know call themselves “The Hilltop Gang” and gets together once a week to knit caps for the service men and women who are overseas. My friend Gloria has made a career out of volunteering. She started a local Meals-on-Wheels program in her small town.

She also runs an organization to help women who are trying to reenter the work force. She started the local food bank and still finds time to take communion to the shut-ins. She says it gives her a reason to get up in the morning! 

Bobbie, aged 82, said just knowing her little dog needs her and depends on her is motivation to stay active. “When I see her little tail wagging, just anticipating a walk, it makes me put aside my aches and pains,” she said. “She keeps me going.” 

The happiest seniors I have met have been the busiest. They are continually learning and trying new skills. They are optimistic and savor each and every day. They fill their lives with beauty and activities that they love. Seniors are the ones who remember to say, “thank you.” 

Perhaps we all should make a list of things that make us happy and beautiful topics to think about. One of my 50+ friends makes a dream board every year to remind her of her goals and dreams. 

Louise runs two to three small businesses all at once, and always has an encouraging word and a big smile to greet her friends. “I have a wonderful and blessed life,” she said. “I love what I do and who I do it with. I’m totally in love with my two grandsons, my handsome son and his wonderful wife. Life is not perfect but I’m happier now than I’ve ever been.” 

Aileen

San Clemente Villas provides full-service, luxury assisted living to those over the age of 65. It is at 660 Camino De Los Mares, San Clemente, CA 92673. Phone: (949) 289-1534 | Fax: (949) 234-0081. Contact: Aileen Brazeau, Co-Owner of San Clemente Villas by the Sea. www.SanClementeVillas.com | abrazeau@cox.net. 

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