Motivation and emotion/Book/2023/Flourishing in the elderly

Flourishing in the elderly:
How can psychological flourishing be supported in the elderly?

Multimedia presentation (3 min)

Overview

Figure 1. Sarah is alone in her elderly years; she feels isolated, lacks vitality, and life is empty. Can you relate ... Sarah, aged 85, begins her day in a house echoing with memories (see Figure 1). Faded photographs on the mantelpiece showcase her once pivotal role in the community. From hosting gatherings to being an active voice at the local council, she had always championed causes dear to her. But now, an overwhelming quietness envelops her heart, and she has lost touch with her sense of purpose. Time has seen her closest friends either move away or pass away. Family visits, once frequent and filled with laughter, have become increasingly rare. This growing isolation weighs on Sarah, exacerbated by a society that seems to prioritise youth over experience. The fast-paced technological world further alienates her; smart devices and social media platforms feel foreign, exacerbating her deep-seated fear of irrelevance in a world that is rapidly evolving without her. In a society increasingly centred on youth, how can seniors like Sarah reclaim their vitality and sense of meaning?

Figure 2. An elderly couple in their golden years, happy that their work is over and content with each other's company.

The aging population represents an invaluable repository of wisdom, experience, and insight (see Figure 2). Yet, many elderly individuals, much like Sarah, face challenges related to purpose, meaning, and overall psychological well-being. This raises a question; can the elderly attain a state of psychological flourishing, even in the face of age-related adversities? The domain of positive psychology offers evidence-based strategies. Read on to explore what these strategies are and how they can be applied to support seniors in their journey toward a life filled with purpose, meaning, and joy.

Psychological flourishing in the elderly can be supported through a combination of the following, especially when tailored to individual needs and preferences:

• Social engagement and meaningful activities such as community involvement or hobbies (Helliwell et al., 2013)
• Mental stimulation via cognitive training programs can sustain mental acuity and may delay cognitive decline (Ball et al., 2002)
• Physical activity using exercises tailored to the elderly improve mood and cognitive function (Colcombe & Kramer, 2003)
• Incorporating positive coping strategies from positive psychology techniques, such as gratitude exercises, builds resilience and satisfaction (Seligman et al., 2005)

Focus questions: What is psychological flourishing? Why is psychological flourishing important for the elderly? How does positive psychology foster psychological flourishing? What can seniors like Sarah do to flourish?

Introduction to psychological flourishing

intro

Definition and distinction

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Importance in the context of ageing

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Misconceptions

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Table 1. Dispelling Common Misconceptions about the Ageing Process

Myth	Fact
Ageing leads to inevitable cognitive and emotional decline.	Ageing can offer growth opportunities with the right strategies.
Ageing means mental and physical decline.	Many older adults maintain high cognitive and physical activity levels with suitable exercises (Park et al., 2002; Hultsch et al., 1999).
Social withdrawal is an ageing inevitability.	While social circles might decrease in size, relationship quality often improves, and staying socially engaged is beneficial (Carstensen et al., 1999; Charles & Carstensen, 2010).
Physical activity is risky for older adults.	Moderate physical activity improves mental and physical health in the elderly, refuting the risk myth (Paterson & Warburton, 2010; Chodzko-Zajko et al., 2009).
Positive thinking is naive.	Adopting a positive mindset is empirically supported, and positive psychology boosts well-being in the elderly (Seligman et al., 2005; Sin & Lyubomirsky, 2009).

Significance of psychological flourishing for the elderly

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Emotional and cognitive benefits

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Impact on physical health and longevity

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The role of positive psychology

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Foundational principles and theories

• Resilience Theory: This theory looks at how individuals can bounce back from adversity and even grow from challenges. It's been particularly applied in positive psychology to consider how building resilience can contribute to flourishing (Southwick & Charney, 2012; Bonanno et al., 2004).
• Theory of Gratitude: Emerging from the broader study of positive emotions, gratitude theory posits that recognising and appreciating the positive aspects of life can lead to enhanced mental well-being (Emmons & McCullough, 2003; Seligman, 2011).
• Character Strengths and Virtues Framework: Proposed by Peterson et al. (2007), this theory classifies 24 character strengths under six virtues that are valued across cultures. Utilising these strengths is thought to contribute to a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Psychological functioning and its role

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The resilience connection

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Proactive approaches and interventions

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Supporting psychological flourishing among seniors

Social engagement and meaningful activities

Figure 3. A group of seniors preparing meals for community service; socially engaged and contributing meaningfully.

• Building social connections rejuvenates the spirit and enhances well-being.
• Social relationships have been found to significantly influence mental and emotional well-being in the elderly. A strong social network can reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, thereby promoting psychological flourishing (Cacioppo et al., 2006).
• Forming bonds across different age groups can be mutually beneficial and specifically aid the elderly in feeling more connected and less isolated (Bengtson, 2001).
• Engaging in community activities or volunteering has been shown to provide a sense of purpose and improve mental health outcomes for seniors (Greenfield & Marks, 2004).

Consider: When was the last time you made a new friend? What activities can help you meet new people? Suggestions: Engage in community activities, reconnect with old friends, or even consider pet ownership. Establish regular family visits or calls, attend local gatherings, or join clubs focused on specific interests.

Figure 4. An elderly woman deeply engrossed in her daily crossword puzzle; an excellent form of mental stimulation.

Mental stimulation

• Continuous learning has been linked to cognitive vitality and emotional well-being.
• Activities that require creativity, such as painting or music, not only stimulate the brain but also contribute to a greater sense of purpose and joy, enhancing the quality of life (Cohen et al., 2006).
• Research indicates that lifelong learning and mental stimulation can help prevent cognitive decline and improve overall psychological well-being. Older adults who engage in mentally stimulating activities report higher levels of happiness and lower levels of depression (Hultsch et al., 1999).
• More recent research underscores the notion that the aging brain is capable of new neural connections when subjected to novel learning experiences, enhancing cognitive and emotional well-being (Park & Bischof, 2013).

Consider: Reflect on a skill you've always wanted to learn. What's stopping you now? Suggestions: Take up a new hobby, join an interesting class, or simply read a new book. Explore online courses tailored for seniors or consider group-based activities to foster intellectual engagement.

Physical activity

Figure ?. A group of elderly enjoying a tai chi class tailored for maintaining mobility and easing arthritis symptoms.

• Regular physical activity boosts mental health and protects against age-related ailments such as heart disease, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass).
• Several studies show that regular physical exercise can improve cognitive function, thereby supporting not only physical but also mental well-being (Colcombe & Kramer, 2003).
• Group exercise activities like tai chi or water aerobics offer not only physical benefits but also social interaction, which can further contribute to psychological well-being (Liu & Latham, 2009).
• Improved sleep through regular physical activity is correlated with better mood and mental health, providing another pathway to psychological flourishing (Reid et al., 2010).

Consider: Reflect on a skill you've always wanted to learn. What's stopping you now? Suggestions: Incorporate simple exercises into your daily routine, such as walking, yoga, or dancing, or consider joining a senior-friendly exercise group. Please note: Always consult your healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen.

Figure ?. An elderly man practicing guided meditation; an excellent positive coping strategy.

Positive coping strategies

• Developing resilience against challenges by adopting positive coping mechanisms.
• Positive psychology interventions focus on strengths and virtues and have shown efficacy in improving well-being and reducing depressive symptoms in older adults (Seligman et al., 2005).
• Incorporating gratitude into daily routines has been associated with positive emotional states, greater well-being, and better physical health in older adults (Emmons & McCullough, 2003).
• Utilizing humor is shown to not only uplift mood but also serve as an effective coping strategy for stress and life challenges. This is particularly relevant for elderly individuals who may face various forms of age-related adversity (Kuiper et al., 1993; Martin et al., 1993).

Consider: Reflect on a past challenge. How did you cope? How can you refine this strategy? Suggestions: Embrace activities that foster mindfulness and reflection, such as meditation, gratitude journaling, or joining a support group.

Figure ?. John rediscovered his zest for life through mentoring teenagers, a program organised by his local APEX club. Can you relate ... John, at 80, often sat in his armchair, lost in memories of youthful adventures. He believed his golden years had long passed, with each day echoing the sentiments of a vibrant past. Collecting his mail one day, a flyer for the local book club caught his attention, hinting at a promise of engaging discussions. Deciding to join, John discovered that the club was more than just about books; it was a community bridging generational gaps through shared stories. A young woman from the group, impressed by John's vast life experiences, introduced him to a mentoring program hosted by the local APEX club. Through mentoring, John shared his life lessons, offering wisdom and guidance to the younger generation. This exchange rekindled his understanding of the value of his own journey. Far from feeling that his best years were behind him, the interactions brought about a renewed sense of purpose (see Figure ?). Through the book club and mentoring, John not only found a revived passion for literature but also tapped into a deeper zest for life, seeing his age not as a limitation but as a testament to a life rich with experiences.

Conclusion

Ageing, with its challenges, can still be a period of growth, connection, and profound meaning. By embracing the tenets of positive psychology, we can support the elderly in their journey towards psychological flourishing.

Psychological flourishing is essential at every age. However, for seniors who wish to flourish, it is particularly important they maintain:

• social engagement to enhance emotional well-being,
• continuous mental stimulation to promote cognitive vitality,
• regular physical activity to ensure both physical and mental health, and
• positive coping strategies to foster resilience.

See also

1. Ageing and emotion (Book chapter, 2014)
2. Ageing and motivation (Book chapter, 2023)
3. Nudge theory and sedentary behaviour (Book chapter, 2023)
4. Self-determination theory (Wikipedia)
5. Death and meaning in life (Book chapter, 2023)
6. Community resilience (Book chapter, 2023)

References

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External links

1. 100-year olds' guide to living your best life (Allure; YouTube)
2. Blue zones power 9: Lifestyle habits of the world’s healthiest, longest-lived people (bluezones.com)
3. Positive psychology center (University of Pennsylvania)
4. The secret to successful aging (Cathleen Toomey; TEDx Talks)