In a noteworthy revelation, renowned epidemiologist Becca Levy, professor at Yale University, has discovered a profound correlation between attitude and longevity. Her research suggests that individuals harboring a positive outlook towards aging ⁘⁘⁘, on average, 7. 5 years longer than those with a negative mindset. This striking finding underscores the significance of attitude in determining one’s ⁘⁘⁘span. With this knowledge in mind, it is logical to inquire about the methods by which one can cultivate a positive mindset and, conversely, rectify a negative one. According to Levy’s book, “Breaking the Age Code,” the key lies in adopting the ABCs of Age Liberation.
The “C” in this paradigm refers to the importance of Challenge… where one confronts and refutes negative beliefs rather than ignoring them. Levy’s study indicates that individuals who engage in this practice are less likely to develop depression and anxiety. This challenge can manifest in various forms, such as writing a letter or email to an editor regarding ageist content, submitting a complaint to an advertising agency for perpetuating ageist stereotypes, or addressing a friend or family member’s ⁘⁘⁘sive remark. In addition to Levy’s guidance, retired professor Manfred Diehl of Colorado State University has devised a list of strategies for adopting a more positive attitude towards one’s own aging process.
Diehl’s approach emphasizes the importance of beginning with oneself… by working on behaviors that foster self-fulfillment and positivity. Author and anti-ageism advocate Ashton Applewhite has established a website, Yo, Is This Ageist?, where individuals can scrutinize whether a phrase, image, or story is ageist.
Applewhite provides expert analysis and guidance, offering a platform for those seeking to promote a more inclusive and respectful understanding of aging. The example provided in the article serves as a testament to the significance of Applewhite’s work. An individual posed the question, “Am I overreacting?” regarding an advertisement for iPhones labeled as ‘senior edition,’ which the individual perceived as perpetuating the myth that seniors are technologically inept.
Applewhite responded, “You’re entitled to feel insulted, as these publications do indeed reinforce the myth that older individuals are out of touch with modern technology. This is ageist, “false,” “and harmful.”” Her response serves as a powerful example of the importance of addressing ageist content and promoting a more nuanced understanding of aging.
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Try These Tips For Developing A Healthier Mindset About Aging
• Becca Levy’s research finds that individuals with a positive attitude towards aging live 7. 5 years longer than those with a negative mindset. 2. According to Levy’s book “Breaking the Age Code”, it is possible to change one’s attitude by adopting the ABCs of Age Liberation, which includes challenging negative beliefs and confronting them rather than ignoring them. 3. Manfred Diehl, retired professor of Human Development and Family Studies, suggests that adopting a more positive attitude towards aging can be achieved by focusing on one’s own behaviors and self-fulfillment, rather than changing others. 4. Ashton Applewhite’s website “Yo, Is This Ageist?” offers a platform for individuals to scrutinize whether a phrase, image, or story is ageist, and provides expert analysis and guidance on promoting a more inclusive and respectful understanding of aging.
Aging, Attitude, and Longevity
The fascinating intersection of aging, attitude, and longevity has garnered significant attention in recent years, with numerous studies indicating a profound correlation between one’s mental outlook and the length of their ⁘⁘⁘span. The pioneering work of epidemiologistBecca Levy, a professor at Yale University, has shed light on this complex relationship, revealing that individuals harboring a positive disposition towards aging tend to ⁘⁘⁘, on average, 7. 5 years longer than those with a negative mindset.
This groundbreaking finding underscores the importance of attitude in determining one’s span, and raises pertinent questions regarding the means by which one can cultivate a positive mental outlook. The notion that one’s attitude can significantly influence the aging process is not a novel concept… but the extent to which it can impact longevity is striking.
Levy’s research suggests that individuals who adopt a positive attitude towards aging are less likely to develop depression and anxiety, thereby reducing their risk of premature mortality. This positivity can manifest in a multitude of ways, including engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment, nurturing meaningful relationships, and cultivating a sense of purpose.
In her seminal work, “Breaking the Age Code,” Levy outlines the ABCs of Age Liberation, a framework designed to empower individuals to reframe their relationship with aging. The “C” in this paradigm, challenge… refers to the critical process of confronting and refuting negative beliefs and stereotypes about aging.
By engaging in this form of cognitive restructuring, individuals can develop a more nuanced understanding of aging, thereby reducing their risk of developing ageist tendencies. This challenge can take many forms, including writing letters to editors, submitting complaints to advertising agencies, or simply correcting the ageist remarks of others.
In addition toLevy’s work, retired professor Manfred Diehl of Colorado State University has proposed a comprehensive framework for adopting a positive attitude towards aging. Diehl’s approach emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, wherein individuals focus on cultivating behaviors that foster self-fulfillment and positivity.
By adopting this mindset, individuals can develop a greater appreciation for their own aging process, thereby reducing their risk of developing negative attitudes towards aging. The importance of this work is exemplified by the tireless efforts of anti-ageism advocateAshton Applewhite, who has established a website dedicated to promoting a more inclusive and respectful understanding of aging.
Applewhite’s work serves as a powerful testament to the significance of addressing ageist content and promoting a more nuanced understanding of aging. Her website, “Yo,” “Is This Ageist?”
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Last week, we explored the relationship between attitude and longevit y and noted a startling finding by Becca Levy, Yale Professor of Epidemiology who affirmed that attitude matters. Her research found those with a positive attitude towards aging live on average 7.5 years longer than those with a negative mindset. Given its importance, one might wonder, How do we develop that positive mindset and even reverse a negative one? In her book, ⁘Breaking the Age Code,⁘ Levy indicates it is possible to make such a change by adopting what she calls the ABCs of Age Liberation.
And C: Challenge negative beliefs. Levy found that older people who confront negative beliefs rather than ignoring them are less likely to develop depression and anxiety. That may mean writing a letter (or email) to an editor about a story that is ageist. It could be writing to an advertising agency because older adults are missing or misrepresented in an advertisement.
It could be addressing an ageist comment made at a book-group meeting or in a conversation with a friend or relative.
