These days, living longer – and healthier – is a frequent topic in the media, as well as those of us focused on older adults. I love all of the research on the “blue zones” and finding connections with these populations that seem to outlive many others. Clearly, there is no one recipe. But social connections continues to be a big driver in many of these communities. And along with this, having a sense of purpose is a related concept that is a strong driver for the health of our aging population.
So what drives our sense of purpose in old age? It can be a variety of things, from spending time with family and grandchildren and being a model to them on how to live well; focusing on an aspect of one’s community that brings you joy and makes you feel that sense of purpose; spiritual pursuits; helping those your age who do not have the same physical and mental wellness. These are just a few.
This recent article in the Good News network (one of my favorite ways to start my day) talks a lot about having a sense of purpose as helping to decrease dementia rates, another very hot topic these days. It remains a mystery in many ways, and the forms of dementia vary greatly. Yet feeling wanted, purposeful, and ready to start each day seems like a logical way to keep one’s mind and body active, and thus a great way to stave off the various ills of growing older.
I feel lucky that we are living in a time where “old age” is truly being redefined. The concept of retirement is not longer about simply leaving a lifelong profession and “relaxing”, which in the past, while a wonderful concept, left many people feeling empty. Finding those pursuits and interests that keep you going brings joy to one’s day and helps brings a structure that is crafted by the individual, something that many people are not able to do in earlier adulthood. The power to create a day where you do all that you love – with purpose, with community – it’s no wonder this helps keep the mind active, the body in good shape, and old age a gift rather than a burden.