For those who think aging is synonymous with wrinkles and less willingness, a surprise: a telephone survey of over 300,000 people aged 18 to 85 has shown that most are progressively happier after their 50s. At 85, they were more satisfied with themselves than at 18.
Research, however, has not found the cause of this phenomenon. There may be environmental or psychological changes in the way we view the world. Or can it even be biological? Speculated psychology professor Arthur A. Stone of New York State University, author of a research-based study.
An earlier study by the University of Warwick found levels of happiness turning around in a U-shape that peaked at around 45 and then began to rise as people got older. That is, a result similar to other research.
Although quality of life decreases over the years, mental satisfaction increases. Older people have a deeper appreciation of the value of life, a sense of accomplishment, a better ability to deal with problems and to live in the present without worrying about the future or pleasing everyone all the time. They also have fewer expectations of themselves and a greater inclination to view situations more positively.
Via Daily Mail
2014 "Retirement Happiness: Planning Your Next Stage of Life" with John Nelson (April 2024)
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