"For this study, researchers Mable Ho and Esme Fuller-Thomson of the University of Toronto focused on those who were over 60 after participating in the three-year study. Their analysis of the data shows that we can put aside our 'gerascophobia' ( fear of aging) and look forward to many years of optimal health even if we experience a setback related to disease or injury. The secret is how healthy we were before the illness, and our lifestyle choices afterwards."
"Their study focused on those whose health improved over the duration of the study, finding plenty of evidence that "old age does not necessarily result in poor physical health, nor is a decline in well-being inevitable." Instead, what Ho and Fuller-Thomson concluded is that modifiable lifestyle factors like being physically active, maintaining a reasonable body weight, not smoking, getting enough sleep, and being social were actually hedges against decline after illness strikes."
Data from more than 8,000 adults aged 45–85 tracked for three years show many adults over 60 can maintain or regain optimal mental and physical functioning after illness or injury. Resilience depends strongly on health status before the setback and on modifiable lifestyle factors. Physical activity, maintaining reasonable body weight, avoiding smoking, sufficient sleep, and active social connections reduce the likelihood of decline after disease. Multiple bodily and social systems interact to support recovery; staying fit increases energy reserves and supports rehabilitation. Investing in preventive health and healthy behaviors enhances the chance of returning to optimal functioning in later life.
Read at Psychology Today
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