Want to Learn the Secret of Longevity?

Recently the Harvard Study of Adult Development, the longest, most comprehensive examination of aging ever conducted, reported some interesting results regarding the “secrets of aging well.”  Surprisingly the study shows that rather than focusing on lowering your cholesterol and stress levels, you may be better off by having close, personal relationships.  Researchers have concluded that embracing community can actually help us to live longer, and be happier. 

Although started in the 1930’s with just men, the study was broadened through the years to include both men and women from adolescence to old age.  The results have even surprised the director, psychiatrist George Vaillant, MD, senior physician at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston.  He says, "I had expected that the longevity of your parents, the quality of your childhood, and your cholesterol levels would be very influential."  He and the other researchers were surprised these variables were not more important than they were. 

Another commonly held notion is that stress adversely affects our health and wellbeing, and again, the study found that it is not the actual stress we go through but how well we deal with it.  As the old adage reminds us, it is better to make lemonade out of lemons and having good adjustment and coping skills are important to effectively dealing with stress.  Researchers also cite other factors that account for our longevity including avoiding cigarettes, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and pursuing education. 

At MorningStar of Boulder, we concur that a healthy lifestyle includes a sense of community and understand the importance of engaging in the types of activities that enhance health and wellness, stimulate our brain and encourage connections.  Please visit our website for more information regarding our beautiful community.  We offer both assisted living suites and secure memory care suites in a range of configurations and floorplans. 

MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Boulder represents the best in senior living with a distinct mission statement - “to honor, to value, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve.  We are dedicated to providing a true home for residents amidst a beautiful, serene setting and invite you to schedule a visit to experience one of the area’s finest senior living communities.   

Source: webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/secrets-of-aging-well#1