Mindset and Age. . .

At 87 years old, Paddy Jones and her salsa dancing have captivated audiences across the globe. In the Guinness World Records as the oldest acrobatic salsa dancer in the world, Jones challenges the stigma surrounding aging – stating she doesn’t feel or act her age. And she might be onto something, as research suggests that a positive mindset to aging can lead to a healthier and longer life. Conversely, negative beliefs about getting older can have harmful effects. So lets look at how positive expectations towards aging can affect one’s health. Studies from the past 50 years seem to tell us the same thing: we could all benefit from looking at aging more positively – as doing so seems to be equivalent to the fountain of youth. Those who look at the aging process as an opportunity for personal growth often experience better health well into their later years. Especially in contrast to those who believe they will decline and become more helpless with age. The differences between the mindsets can be seen in their cells’ biological aging and their life span in general. Our culture continuously feeds us the idea that aging is bad. Just take a look at birthday cards and you’ll see older people shown as absentminded or confused. Greater awareness and intolerance of age stereotypes is the way forward as a society. We also need to rethink our own perceptions of aging, as well as question and reject beliefs that we might have adopted over time. And if you find it difficult to create a positive mindset, just think of Paddy Jones. Remember that it’s a positive attitude towards life at any age that will keep us healthy and strong for years to come.