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A: This is a very interesting question, and a complex one to answer. In many cultures and countries in the world, ageing is something to be valued, and admired, and older people held up as being sources of wisdom, experience, and providers of signposts to younger generations. Unfortunately in other cultures and countries, ageing is not seen as a positive thing - the UK is one of those societies in which ageing is perceived negatively, and older people, seem to be generalised and categorised as being unimportant, out of touch, and worse. Consequently, the impression many of us have of getting older is one of decline and degeneration.
In positive psychology, we learn that all of us are individuals, and regardless of our circumstances, past experience, previous behaviour, physical condition - or age, we have the opportunity for flourishing and thriving, and for meaningful and purposeful lives, full of zest and vitality. Positive Ageing takes this further, and provides research that tells us that when we take control of our ageing process, with the tools that we all have available to us, we are able to literally change the way we age - perceiving ageing as a time for self-development, learning, and growth. Consequently, our perceptions of ageing, and ourselves as older adults, shifts. Our Life Satisfaction increases, as does our health & happiness, and our longevity! Now, wouldn't living in a culture where ageing well is admired, empowered, and expected be a more motivating environment to spend time as we travel on our ageing journey?
A: This is similar to a previous question, in terms of the misconceptions of ageing. However I will answer this reading it differently - what is the biggest misconception of positive psychology in connection with ageing. One of the criticisms of Positive Psychology in the early days following its inception, was that it was all about looking on the bright side, through rose tinted spectacles even, and glazing over, or ignoring any negatives that might be going on around us. That is not the case at all - it would be unrealistic to expect that life is one that is filled with happiness, joy, and fulfilment. As we get older, we are reminded physically, mentally, and emotionally, that there are some less 'positive' aspects to ageing. Positive Psychology doesn't tell us to ignore or suppress these feelings, but to acknowledge them, understand where they are coming from, and learn to be comfortable with them. We can't stop life from happening - but we can avoid rumination, dwelling, and feeling like any adversity or challenge is going to continue forever, affect all areas of our life, and is somehow a reflection of something we have done or something we are (or are becoming, in the case of ageing).
No matter what is going on around us, we have the opportunity to find a positive slant, to reframe an experience perhaps, and even learn and grow from it. Adversity does build our resilience levels, which means that we will bounce back more easily - perhaps not to the same place exactly - we don't go through life unchanged or unaffected by the things that happen to us - but we can go back to a place of happiness at some stage, and a level of life satisfaction and wellbeing.
Each of us is unique, and our individual experience may mean we are more challenged than other might be. Do reach out to us if you feel that coaching or 1:1 guidance might help you, or be sure to contact a local qualified mental health professional if you feel that counselling or therapy would be more appropriate at this time. There is always a way forward if we seek it out.
A: Ah yes, technology - love it or loathe it, it is here to stay! And the developments in technology and the devices which use it, are moving at such a pace, it can seem impossible to keep up. Let's begin there - we don't need to keep up with every development that is happening in the tech world - that would be a full time job - indeed it is for some people in that industry. However, technology is becoming involved in areas of all of our lives and there is definitely an increased reliance on it. I imagine that at some point in the future- and possibly not that far into the future - it will be impossible to exist in the developed world without some degree of competence in technology. Banking is a prominent example - most banks are encouraging the use of an app (application) on a smartphone or tablet, and self-scanning groceries for our weekly shop is now part of visiting a supermarket. We pay for petrol at the pump using our PIN or tapping our card or smartphone 'wallet'. We check-in at the doctors using a touchpad, and we book most of our travel and accommodation online rather than in -person or by phone.
Technology and its advances is a little bit like ageing. Denying it is happening is naive, and pretending that we can continue without acknowledging and embracing the required changes, will leave us out of touch, and in some cases, out of contact with society. Such connections are vitally important - to daily life, but also to our relationships - it is now normal for us to see people on their phones or devices at cafes and restaurants, as well as family gatherings. Also, if someone is unfortunately at home on their own a lot, technology can enable them to connect virtually to online communities and opportunities for learning & engagement with forums that might be physically unavailable to them.
So, there are two ways to tackle it:- embrace it, keep learning, try out what you need to in order to conduct your everyday business of life, ask younger people to teach you (it can provide a great opportunity for intergenerational bonding). Or, the opposite.
Life, and what we need to function in it, continues to evolve and move on. Technology is a fundamental part of that progression. If we are to bust the myth of older people being out of touch, we need to move with it as best we can. It is great for the brain to learn new things - even trying to learn is beneficial. We don't need to be experts, and in most cases, there will always be someone to ask if we get stuck, or make a mistake. But we do need to exist and function in the 21st century, a time when most things are moving to a technology based format, based on intelligence that is articificial and created, not lived and learned. I would advise staying as relevant and aware as possible, so that our minds and our worlds remain open and connected.
A: Resilience is often used these days. in day to day terms, it is coping with the ups and downs of life in a balanced way, and bouncing back unscathed. There is more to it than that in reality. We know that adversity happens, and life can be challenging for us at times. These experiences test us, and if we are able to rise to the challenge of those tests, we find that we have developed our resources, and grown from the experience (however bad it seems at the time).
In truth, resilience is about bouncing back - imagine a tree bending in the wind, and then returning to its upright position when the wind dies down. However, when we do bounce back, we are not quite the same - experiences alter us - for better or worse - a change has taken place, and we have developed somehow as a result. So the tree that is in constantly forceful winds will eventually adopt a shape and pattern of growth that enables it to better withstand the adversity of the wind. It develops to its life.
There is a beautiful analogy for this, which can be comforting and reassuring in times of adversity and worse, when it feels like things might never get better. In Japan, there is a concept of 'kintsigi' which is where pottery which is broken, is repaired with gold. It is a way to turn what seems damaged and altered by what has happened to it, into something even more valuable and meaningful. The same can be said of us as individuals - we grow, are wiser and more experienced with each of life's challenges we encounter. True resilience is being less affected by adversity as we progress through life -we feel more able to rise to the challenge and bounce back stronger.
There are things we can do to support ourselves in Resilience - look out for an upcoming blog on how we can develop resilience in our lives - a really important topic for us all as we move from midlife into older age.
A: Purpose plays a critical role in retirement, and importantly in our ability to positively age. If we consider the aspects of wellbeing that positive psychology advocates, purpose is present in at least 5 of the 6. As we get older, we are generally less active, less involved, less required to be performing and productive. We can disengage a little, and adopt a more restful, relaxed way of living. In most cases, this is a welcome contrast to our busy career and family lives of previous decades. However, as we move into our retirement years, physically, emotionally, and mentally, we still need the direction, motivation, and sense of fulfilment that we did in our earlier lives. It is vital for us to retain our interest, engagement, vitality, and zest. Research in positive psychology shows that having a clear sense of purpose enhances well-being, resilience, and longevity. It helps us navigate life’s challenges, fostering optimism and hope, which are essential for mental and emotional health. It also gives us perspective, and confidence - both are incredibly important during the ageing process with its changes and challenges.
When retirement or health limitations restrict activities, maintaining a sense of purpose requires and open mind, flexibility, and adaptability. Older adults can redefine purpose as and when they need to by focusing on what is still meaningful and achievable - or discovering new aspects of their lives which are meaningful and achievable. These can change over time; the key is not to feel despondent if what used to provide us with meaning no longer does. Purpose and meaning doesn't have to be tied to the same things over a life time - it can come from relationships, learning, personal growth, or contributing to the community through volunteering, mentoring, or simply sharing wisdom with younger generations. These are all ways to stay connected and purposeful, engaged and vital.
Positive psychology encourages focusing on strengths, at any stage of life. By recognising our capabilities, we can continue to contribute in ways that matter to us and give us a sense of achievement, even as life circumstances change.
Ultimately, purpose in ageing is about finding meaning in the present and adapting to new roles. By reframing limitations as opportunities to explore different facets of life, older adults can maintain a sense of vitality, connection, and purpose, contributing to their overall happiness and well-being. This requires a growth mindset, and a balanced perspective - both of these can be learned, but can require effort and attention. If you need support in this area, please do make an enquiry or gain local support. Please also see our blog on purposeful retirement (14th October 2024).
A: Death and dying are always challenging areas to address with care and sensitivity in this type or forum, however our mortality is a subject area that is relevant to all of us, therefore is not something that should be hidden from or not talked about constructively and objectively. Positive Psychology helps us with our perspective and mindset on death and dying, whilst not denying that it is a certainty for all of us at some point.
Positive Psychology promotes a shift from anxiety and avoidance to acceptance and meaning-making. The fear of death often stems from feelings of incompleteness or unfulfilled life goals. This existential fear can be rooted in regret, missed opportunities, time running out, or an uncertainty about what comes next. Positive Psychology can help individuals approach death with a receptive mindset rather than one of fear. At its core, it focuses on fostering a meaningful and fulfilling life. Research shows that having a clear sense of purpose, nurturing positive relationships, and practicing gratitude can significantly reduce death anxiety. When individuals reflect on their strengths, accomplishments, and the positive impact they’ve had on others, they can develop a sense of life satisfaction and completeness, reframing the narrative of their lives in a positive light. There is said to be a wisdom that comes with older age, and this can help to balance perspectives.
Mindfulness, an important practice within positive psychology, can also help individuals accept the natural course of life, including death. It encourages living in the present moment, reducing future-oriented anxiety and helps us come to terms with the impermanence of life. Studies suggest that mindfulness and acceptance reduce the fear of death by cultivating inner peace and reducing rumination on the past or the future.
Positive ageing also encourages meaning-making, the ability to find purpose even in difficult circumstances including facing mortality. By focusing on what has been valuable in life—relationships, growth, contributions—individuals can face death with a sense of peace and fulfilment, rather than fear.
Death is a natural part of life. Accepting our own mortality can encourage us to live fully and meaningfully while we are alive, connecting deeply with others, and engaging proactively in all that life is. Towards the end of our lives, this allows us to reflect on the lives we have lived with a sense of completion and fulfilment. This shift from fear to acceptance creates a more open and receptive mindset toward death and dying.
A: This is a very interesting question, and one which asks about one of the key aspects that Positive Psychology is known for - its interventions. Much work as been done over more than two decades on creating, researching, and measuring the immediate and long-lasting effects of interventions on the wellbeing, perceived levels of happiness and life satisfaction of individuals - across the lifespan. What is a fundamental foundation of Positive Psychology is that it is a science - the interventions created since its inception, are backed up by thorough research and extensive samples and analysis. They are tried and tested, and we know they are proven to be effective - the effects of interventions last much longer than then interventions themselves.
There is substantial evidence that interventions such as Gratitude practices and Mindfulness for example, have long-term benefits for emotional wellbeing and mental health, including those in later stages of life. These interventions can also improve acceptance, reduce anxiety and depression, and promote resilience, particularly when dealing with the challenges of ageing. Here are some examples of how they can help:
1. Gratitude Interventions: Research shows that gratitude practices, such as keeping a gratitude journal or regularly reflecting on positive life experiences, can significantly enhance mental health in older adults. Studies show that older adults who practiced gratitude experienced greater life satisfaction, improved mood, and reduced symptoms of depression. By focusing on positive aspects of their lives, older adults shift attention away from negative emotions, helping them cope better with the losses or limitations that can come with ageing.
2. Mindfulness Interventions: Mindfulness, which involves staying present and accepting life’s experiences without judgment, has also been shown to have long-term benefits for older adults. Studies, such as those published in the Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, reveal that mindfulness practices can reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms in older populations. Mindfulness-based interventions have been linked to improved cognitive functioning and emotional regulation, particularly in dealing with the uncertainties or health-related challenges of later life.
These interventions are particularly beneficial for long-term mental health because they foster skills that can be continuously applied, building resources for the future, for example mindfulness can help with managing stress and anxiety about health concerns or loss of independence, while gratitude strengthens emotional resilience by emphasising life’s positives. Both interventions improve overall psychological flexibility, a crucial factor in navigating life transitions. They can also help older adults find meaning in life’s later stages. Research in Positive Psychology and Ageing suggests that individuals who regularly practice gratitude or mindfulness report higher levels of well-being and a greater sense of purpose, which are linked to longer life expectancy and improved quality of life.
There are many other types of interventions of course, and a professional Positive Psychology Coach can help to craft effective and appropriate science-based interventions which will support older adults as they prepare for, or face, the changes and challenges of ageing. If you are interested in finding out more about the support that Viva Positiva can offer, please make an enquiry on the homepage and we will be able to give you guidance on this.
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