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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Jane Kirby

Avoiding memory decline could be as simple as a positive attitude

  • A 16-year study involving over 10,000 individuals aged 50 and above found a significant link between maintaining a positive outlook and better memory function.
  • Researchers observed that participants reporting higher levels of well-being consistently achieved superior scores on memory tests throughout the study period.
  • The study indicated that a positive disposition was also associated with an increased sense of personal agency, including feelings of control and independence.
  • While the connection between positivity and cognitive health was modest in scale, its statistical significance suggests a tangible relationship between psychological state and memory preservation as people age.
  • Experts from Alzheimer’s Research UK noted that this observational study highlights the importance of mental wellbeing for overall brain health, though further research is needed to understand the full connection.

IN FULL

The hidden health benefit of staying positive in your middle age

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