A new study reveals that having a sense of purpose in life might help protect you from heart disease and stroke during your senior years. For this particular study, they defined having a sense of purpose in life as feeling that life is worth living and having meaning and drive behind your actions. Just having a sense of purpose in life reduced the chances of death by 23 percent, and reduced the rate of heart attack deaths by 19 percent. In the elder community, these are very big numbers, and thus should be paid attention to. Over 137,000 different cases were examined for this, and these numbers just scratch the surface of what kind of potential improving mental health can do for the elderly.
This study is important because it points toward something that medical professionals have known for quite some time: that there is a link between mental and physical health. This study was by no means definitive, but it does help to confirm previous research in the same field. Those who are happier tend to be healthier. This is not a golden rule by any means, but there is a high likelihood that the connection is there for a reason. It might be something as small as happy people want to take better care of themselves. Right now, the question is still up in the air.
Do you know a senior citizen that could benefit from being happier in their lives. Almost everyone does. The good news is that establishing this is very easy. Most seniors crave company. They might not have the social life that they once had, and they might not have the ability to get around that they used to. By bringing company to them, you are taking a big step toward creating purpose. It’s very easy to get depressed and lonely when you are by yourself all day, but having someone come to visit you can change things up completely in just a few short hours. It doesn’t matter if it’s a friend, a family member, or a professional in-home caregiver. Creating a companionship often comes with purpose and new found meaning in life–and according to this study and past data–this can create healthier lives.
There are other things to do to boost mood and improve outlooks on life, too. Little things, like exercise, hobbies, and projects–even the smallest ones–can re-introduce meaning into life. Sometimes, the tiny things that they wanted to do earlier in their lives can accomplish this. Either way, having a set of ears to listen to their thoughts and desires can help with creating a new purpose in life. And, if there are needs that need to be met around the house, going with a professional to help with care can cover all of your bases at once. The worst case scenario would be that while it was being determined that more care was necessary, companionship and a safety net would be put in place. Many people find that their caregiver becomes a trusted friend, and eventually, an honorary member of the family.
Aqeela says
hi give me references and doi of this study