Positive emotions can help fight against poor health in old age

An evidence-based review of published literature suggests that positive emotions fight against poor health later in life.

Positive attitude guards against poor health in old age
The article, published in 'Current Directions in Psychological Science,' suggests that there are a number of ways in which a positive attitude can protect against poor health in adulthood.

For example, people with positive attitude supposedly take a proactive approach to aging by regularly exercising and having a good night's sleep on daily basis.

Such individuals may also avoid unhealthy behaviors like smoking and risky sex, according to a statement by Cornell University (US), which carried out the study.

Study details
To establish a link between positive feelings and healthy old age, Anthony Ong, Ph.D., of Cornell University, and colleagues reviewed current research on how positive vibes can influence health outcomes in later adulthood.

The reviewed data suggests that positive emotions may be a powerful antidote to stress, pain, and illness.

“We all age. It is how we age, however, that determines the quality of our lives,” said Ong, who is the lead author of the review article, according to Sify.com.

Positive emotions are apparently very important in elderly because they are more susceptible to disease, the article suggests.

Postive vibes help fight physical damages caused by stress
It’s well documented in some studies that people with stronger positive emotions have lower levels of chemicals associated with inflammation related to stress, a known risk factor for a slew of other diseases.

Positive emotions even help an individual to fight against some of the physical damage triggered by stress, the article suggests.

The authors of the study speculate that if positive emotions are good for our health then, "one direct, measureable consequence of this should be the extended years of quality living."