“POSITIVE aging” is a term that describes feeling good about yourself, keeping fit and healthy, maintaining a positive attitude and engaging fully in life as you age and become a senior citizen.

This time of life is often associated with many rewarding experiences but it’s also a time when significant changes might occur.

For example, some people will see change in their physical functioning, social networks, employment status plus bereavement can become more common.

Keeping a positive attitude toward aging is particularly important as it allows you to continue to feel good and have a sense of control as you enter another phase of your life.

As people age it is natural for them to move in and out of periods of positive aging. But those who age positively live longer and healthier lives, and enjoy a better quality of life.

 

Maintaining a positive attitude as you age

The way you feel about yourself and the aging process can affect how you view life and the extent to which you are involved in activities and the opportunities life offers.

If you can make choices and have control over important aspects of your life, and take part in and enjoy activities, you are more likely to feel good about yourself.

Staying connected
Social interaction and relationships with others are associated with positive aging and feeling optimistic about life.
Maintaining social networks through membership of clubs, engaging in voluntary work and keeping in touch with family encourages interaction with others, prevents isolation and promotes good mental and physical health.