Positive ageing attitudes improve physical and cognitive function, US study finds
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · May 2
Positive ageing attitudes improve physical and cognitive function, US study finds
15 articles · Updated · The Guardian · May 2
Yale School of Public Health researchers tracked more than 11,000 people aged 50 to 99, finding 44% improved walking speed and cognition over an average eight years.
Participants with more positive views of ageing performed better in memory, maths and mobility tests, and were more likely to improve than those holding negative beliefs.
Experts said positive attitudes can encourage healthier behaviour and challenge ageism, including assumptions that older age inevitably brings dementia, illness, decline or reduced workplace value.
Does a positive attitude improve health in old age, or do healthier people simply have a more positive outlook to begin with?
If a positive outlook adds 7.5 years to life, how can we dismantle ageism to boost national longevity and well-being?
Nearly Half of Older Adults Show Cognitive or Physical Improvement: Yale Study Challenges Aging Decline Narrative
Overview
A groundbreaking Yale study (2025–2026) found that 45% of adults aged 65 and older showed measurable improvement in cognitive or physical function, with positive age beliefs playing a key role in these gains. Negative age beliefs, fueled by societal ageism, lead to harmful psychological, behavioral, and physiological effects, while cultivating a positive mindset fosters resilience and improvement. Strategies like cognitive training and supportive care models empower older adults and caregivers alike. Addressing ageism is urgent, as it costs the US $63 billion annually. Together, these findings call for a cultural and systemic shift to promote positive aging and unlock the true potential of later life.