147 - Yes You Can

DG explores how cultivating a positive attitude toward aging can promote better health, longevity, and overall well-being. The episode focuses on challenging ageist stereotypes, reframing internal beliefs about aging, and adopting practical strategies for graceful and empowered aging. Drawing on recent studies from Harvard and insights from positive psychology, DG provides listeners with actionable tips to combat ageism—both societal and internal—and shares resources for living a more fulfilling later life.


LINKS TO RESOURCES BELOW:

How to have positive attitude about aging

 https://youtu.be/GCRHS41nfwo?is=r-p_67pjTnVLTug0

Australian 96 year old’s story 

https://youtu.be/oZRxyhGXOkw?is=r7CSw8uxpsscKfKl

Five tools 

https://pro.positivepsychology.com/wp-content/uploads/giveawaytools.pdf

Yoga for Seniors

https://positivepsychology.com/yoga-for-seniors/

How to Improve Cognitive Function 

https://positivepsychology.com/how-to-improve-cognitive-function/

Propel Physiotherapy for a Positive Mindset 

https://propelphysiotherapy.com/healthy-aging/positive-mindset-superpower/

Wellbeing X 

https://pro.positivepsychology.com/product/wellbeing-x/

Mindfulness X

https://pro.positivepsychology.com/product/mindfulness-x-complete-8-week-mindfulness-training-template/

The Five Senses Worksheet 

https://positive.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/The-Five-Senses-Worksheet.pdf

The Self Esteem Journal for Adults 

https://positive.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Self-Esteem-Journal-For-Adults-Worksheet_v1.pdf

17 Positive Aging Exercises 

https://pro.positivepsychology.com/product/17-positive-aging-exercises/

Connect with Aging With Grace®️ at agingwithgraceinfo.org

Transcript

0:09

Hello, welcome to the Aging with Grace podcast. I've been producing podcasts since 2021. I started podcasting because it is a way to share the information that people need in order to make informed decisions as they grow older. I released podcasts once a week for 3 years, but now I produce one podcast per month. My goal remains the same. I am fighting ageism so that people can age with grace. I want you to live longer, better. Ageism hurts people as they grow older. Ageism refers to the stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination directed at individuals based on their age. It most commonly affects older adults but can be directed at younger people as well. It often manifests through unfair treatment in the workplace, Healthcare, and everyday social interactions. Sometimes the ageism lives in our own head. I sometimes think ageist thoughts. I am human. We are all human. We make mistakes. We need assistance to improve. I am here to offer my assistance to improve your negative attitudes toward aging. You see, unless you can think positively about aging, your negativity is going to make you sick. It's as simple as that. You've heard that laughter is the best medicine? It's true. Not that you have to be laughing all the time, but you do want to be constantly looking for reasons to laugh. I did a podcast about imagining a positive and cool alter ego for yourself to improve your attitude about aging. That is one way. There are more. Out of curiosity, I did an AI search and this is what it said. To foster a positive attitude about aging, actively reframe the process as an ongoing journey of growth rather than a decline. Challenge internal ageism, practice daily gratitude, and maintain strong social connections. Cultivate purpose through lifelong learning and hobbies while prioritizing physical and mental self-care. And then it goes on to say, here are actionable ways to shift your mindset And embrace growing older. Reframe internal stereotypes is the first one. Actively challenge the cultural narrative that aging is synonymous with deterioration. Research shows that older adults with positive self-perceptions of aging have lower risks of chronic disease and potentially heal faster. Learn more about countering ageism from the Harvard T.H. Chan School School of Public Health study on aging, and we'll go into that later. The next one is Cultivate a Longevity Mindset. View your later years as a period rich in promise, self-discovery, and unmatched emotional intelligence. Explore how to reframe your perspective on the positive psychology definition of positive aging. And we'll go into that later in depth. The next one is practice daily gratitude. Focusing on what your body and mind can accomplish fosters resilience. Use tools like the Propel Physiotherapy Tips on Mindset for actionable ways to build a daily gratitude habit. And stay physically and mentally active. Exercise releases endorphins, reduces stress, and increases longevity. Pair physical movement with cognitive stimulation like lifelong learning or puzzles to keep your brain sharp. And last but not least, it says maintain social connections. Surrounding yourself with friends, family, and intergenerational groups provides essential emotional support and wards off loneliness. Okay, that's the end of what the AI search gave me. I have heard those tips before, but I haven't delved deeper. Let's dive deeper. Let's go to the Harvard article. I'm going to read the article from the Harvard study. It was written August 24th, 2022, but I don't think anything in the article has changed since then. So here it is. It is titled Positive Attitude About Aging Could Boost Health. People with more positive attitudes about growing old tend to live longer and healthier lives than those with negative thoughts about aging, according to recent research. A study of 14,000 adults over the age of 80, co-authored by experts at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, found that the people who had the highest satisfaction with aging had a 43% lower risk of dying from any cause. Over a 4-year period compared with those who were the least satisfied with aging. The study also found that people more satisfied with the aging process had lower risk for conditions such as diabetes, stroke, cancer, and heart disease, better cognitive functioning, were more likely to engage in physical activity and less likely to have trouble sleeping, were less lonely and depressed, and were more optimistic with a greater sense of purpose. There's a connection between mindsets and health behaviors, said Eric Kim, an assistant professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia and an affiliate researcher at the Li Ka Shing Center for Health and Happiness at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, in an August 19th, 2022 article in the American Heart Association News. One leads to the other. Kim offered other suggestions on how to develop a more positive attitude about aging. Maintain a sense of purpose by finding projects that align with your values. Reject negative stereotypes about aging, such as the idea that poor physical health is inevitable for older adults. Stay socially active, for instance, by joining a club or getting involved with a community organization. Try new activities or teach skills or crafts to others. And that's the end of the Harvard article. But the Harvard article had a link to a story posted on the American Heart Association website titled, How You Feel About Aging Could Affect Health. Here's How to Keep the Right Attitude, by Laura Williamson. Is age really just a state of mind? Perhaps not the number, but how we age might be. A growing body of research suggests a person's mindset— how they feel about growing old— may predict how much longer and how well they live as the years go by. Several studies over the past 20 years suggest people with more positive attitudes about aging live longer, healthier lives than those with negative perceptions of the aging process. Recently, a large nationwide study of nearly 14,000 adults over age 50 took an even deeper look into the ways in which positive thinking about aging could impact a person's physical health, health behaviors, and psychological well-being. Published in JAMA Network Open, the study found those with the highest satisfaction with aging had a 43% lower risk of dying from any cause during 4 years of follow-up compared to those with the lowest satisfaction. People with higher satisfaction also had a reduced risk for chronic conditions such as diabetes, stroke, cancer, and heart disease, as well as better cognitive functioning. People with a more positive attitude about growing old also were more likely to engage in frequent physical activity and less likely to have trouble sleeping than their less satisfied peers. They also were less lonely, less likely to be depressed, more optimistic, and had a stronger sense of purpose. There's a connection between mindsets and health behaviors, said Eric Kim, the study's senior investigator and an assistant professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. One leads to the other. For example, while older adults tend to use preventative health services less frequently than younger or middle-aged adults, A study Kim co-wrote in the journal Preventative Medicine shows that the more satisfied people over 50 are with how they're aging, the more likely they'll have their cholesterol tested or be screened for breast, cervical, or prostate cancer. But it cuts both ways. While having a positive attitude can lead to behaviors that promote good health, if people believe poor health is inevitable with age, This can be a self-fulfilling prophecy that keeps them from behaviors that will help with aging, said Kim, who also is an affiliate researcher at the Center for Health and Happiness at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston. The good news is these views we hold about aging are changeable. We can shift our mindset, said Hannah Jeosun, who co-wrote the preventative medicine study. with Kim and others. She is an assistant professor at the Arizona State University Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation in Phoenix and specializes in the relationship between people's views on aging and their health and well-being. Here are things Kim and Jiyeon said can help people develop a more positive approach to aging. The first one is maintain a sense of purpose. Some people aren't sure what to do with themselves after they retire, said Kim. He suggests finding projects that align with a person's values. People's purposes can be quite different, he said. If family is a high priority, find things to do that contribute to the family, such as helping to care for grandchildren. If conservation is a strong value, find projects that contribute to the health of the environment. Volunteer work is a great way to do this, he said. The next one is recognize negative messages about aging and reject them. Research shows negative stereotypes about aging are internalized over a person's lifespan and can harm physical and cognitive health as a person grows older. Develop an awareness of these messages, suggests Jason. Understand how they influence us. For example, A person may believe poor physical health is inevitable for older adults, so there's no use in trying to stay active. But according to the National Institute on Aging, exercise can lower the risk for cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes, and can improve sleep and reduce the risk of falls. Recognize that practicing healthy behaviors can support health at any age, Jiason said. The next one is stay socially active. As people age, they may lose loved ones such as spouses, family members, or friends. If a spouse was responsible for maintaining social networks and that person dies, the remaining spouse may grow lonely and more socially isolated. Social isolation and loneliness are risk factors for poor physical and mental health, increasing the risk for heart attacks and strokes and contributing to poor life satisfaction Depression, low self-esteem, and difficulty with daily life activities. But research shows maintaining social connections can have a positive effect on health. Kim said it's important to make new connections to replace those you've lost. What typically happens is people stop making new friends. Reengage mechanisms for meeting people that were there earlier in life, he said, such as joining a club or taking part in community organizations. Reach out to people more instead of being on autopilot. The next one is try something new. Sometimes people lose mobility as they age and may not be able to engage in the activities that brought them joy when they were younger. Kim suggests trying to redeploy that energy into a new way, such as teaching a skill or craft instead of practicing it, Or learn something new that is less physically demanding, Jason said. Research suggests that older adults who learn new skills can improve memory, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. Don't fall into the mindset that it's too late to try something new, she said. It's never too late, and you're never too old to explore new interests. And that's the end of the article from the American Heart Association. And following that article was a link to another related article from the American Heart Association's website titled, Why Experts Say a Good Mood Can Lead to Good Health, by Laura Williamson. It doesn't take a scientist to understand that laughter feels good while anger feels awful. But it does take a scientist to explain why one of these feelings can boost the immune system While the other can wear it down, damage the heart, and increase the risk for dementia. Simply put, mood can influence your health, said Dr. Erin Michos, director of Women's Cardiovascular Health at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore. Studies show negative emotions, including anger, hostility, and pessimism, are linked to a higher risk of heart disease and lower chance of recovery from events such as heart attacks, as well as poorer cognitive health. Conversely, a growing body of research shows feelings such as happiness, optimism, gratitude, a sense of purpose, well-being, or satisfaction in life lead to better heart and brain health. A 2016 study in Health Psychology even found that having a happy spouse or partner could improve an individual's overall health. and increase healthy behaviors, such as being more physically active. There are many reasons for this, said Mykos, a cardiologist who co-authored recent American Heart Association scientific statement on the ways in which psychological health impacts heart and brain health. Strong negative feelings such as anger and stress, such as from anxiety or depression, activate the amygdala, the region in the brain that handles emotion. It activates the body's fight-or-flight response, triggering the release of cortisol and adrenaline, hormones that make the heart beat faster and blood pressure rise, she said. This can be stressful on the heart, particularly for people who have underlying heart conditions. It also can cause blood platelets to form clots and trigger plaque in the heart or brain to rupture, causing a heart attack or stroke. Prolonged stress also increases inflammation and lowers the body's immune response. This biological response may be compounded by harmful behaviors, Mycos said. People with poor coping mechanisms for stress may sleep poorly, engage in binge eating, and exercise less. On the flip side, lowering stress through positive feelings also affects brain circuitry, Jill Goldstein, founder and executive director of the Innovation Center on Sex Differences in Medicine and professor of psychiatry and medicine at Harvard Medical School in Boston. Mindfulness, humor, and other mental coping skills can help people stay healthier by reducing the amount of cortisol running through their bodies, she said. In women, this can protect the production of estradiol, a type of estrogen that can be important for preserving good brain health. We are also enhancing our immune systems when we help regulate the stress response, she said. The brain talks to the body and calms the body down. It slows your breathing and your heart rate. Some people are better able to do this than others. But it's not just the absence or reduction of stress that gives the brain what it needs to coordinate better overall health. Well-being is more than the absence of mental distress, she said. Happiness, optimism, a sense of purpose, gratitude, mindfulness— these are all associated with favorable heart health, even independently of a lack of negative factors. And research shows anything good for the heart is good for the brain. Michaels said people don't have to be naturally cheery or easygoing to reap these benefits. Some of this can be learned, she said. You can cultivate positive thinking and mindfulness and coping mechanisms to deal with adversity. Staying physically active also helps to boost mood, she said. So does spending time with friends and family to build strong social support. The better someone feels, the more likely they are to maintain their health, Michael said. Optimistic people take better care of themselves. They are more compliant with medication, more likely to get checkups, to eat healthy and exercise. It's never too late to make a difference, said Goldstein. The brain is very retrainable. The older we get, the more difficult it is to do, but it can be done. And that's the end of the article from the American Heart Association. The next tip for having a positive attitude from my AI search said to Cultivate a longevity mindset. View your later years as a period rich in promise, self-discovery, and unmatched emotional intelligence. Explore how to reframe your perspective on the positive psychology definition of positive aging. All right, let's go to the link provided here and look at the article titled Positive

Aging: 18:32

Redefining What Aging Successfully Means. Written in March of 2025 by Susan McGarvey, PhD, and scientifically reviewed by Alicia Nortje, PhD. And before we explore this article, I should warn you that it was written for providers. It was written for psychologists and psychiatrists and counselors so that they could better help their aging patients. And it starts by giving key insights. Positive aging redefines success by focusing on resilience, growth, and adaptability rather than just physical health. And attitudes shape aging experiences, and a positive mindset leads to better health and life satisfaction. And physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being all contribute to successful aging. Having spent a large part of my career working with aging communities of one sort or another, This is the author talking, Susan McGarvey, PhD. I have had the privilege to witness all sorts of aging processes. The idea of positive aging is great when understood within a context that is real and balanced. Historically, successful aging has been equated with physical vitality and independence. But is this definition inclusive or realistic for everyone? In this article, we explore what aging successfully really means. We cultivate a broader, more positive, and inclusive narrative. We acknowledge the realities and the opportunities that come with growing older. Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our 5 Positive Psychology Tools for free. These practical, science-based exercises will equip you with tools to help yourself or your clients embrace aging as a season of growth, vitality, and continued self-discovery. And so if you would like to download these tools, I'm putting a link in the show notes. Why should we assign a new meaning to successful aging is the title of this section. Traditionally, models of successful aging have emphasized the absence of disease, high physical functioning, and continued productivity. While these are commendable goals, they fail to capture the diverse experiences and challenges of aging. These traditional models, therefore, create a narrow view of successful aging. This view, in turn, creates unrealistic expectations and risks fostering feelings of inadequacy in those who don't fit the mold. Assigning a new meaning to successful aging is about inclusivity, It's about acknowledging and celebrating the richness of life that persists despite, and often because of, the challenges that aging brings. Success in aging should therefore also consider resilience, emotional growth, and the ability to adapt to new realities. What is the concept of positive aging then? Positive aging shifts the focus from deficits to strengths. It is therefore not about resisting the aging process, but rather embracing it with optimism and intentionality. This mindset prioritizes emotional, social, and spiritual growth alongside physical and cognitive health, emphasizing that aging is not merely surviving but thriving. Much like our beliefs in life in general, The beliefs we hold about aging can significantly shape our experiences. To better understand their impact, let's critically examine the contrast between positive and negative beliefs. So this next section is titled Positive Versus Negative Beliefs About Aging. Negative beliefs about aging often perpetuate stereotypes. Society frequently associates aging with decline, frailty, and irrelevance. As you can imagine, these narratives can instill fear and reduce self-worth in older adults. You may find that your older clients internalize these attitudes, resulting in avoidance of opportunities due to feeling, in quotation marks, too old. This avoidance can lead to isolation, diminished mental health, and even a shorter lifespan. On the flip side, positive beliefs about aging highlight growth, wisdom, and contribution. Older clients with these beliefs report higher life satisfaction and better health, as studies indicate that a positive attitude fosters resilience and engagement, countering physical and cognitive challenges. Critically, these beliefs can create a feedback loop. Negative views become self-fulfilling prophecies, While positive ones foster active, meaningful lives. As therapists, we must challenge societal narratives to evolve and emphasize the value of aging, using education and advocacy to promote a more enriching perspective for our clients. And the next section's titled Positive Aging Explanation. At its core, positive aging is about living our life as a continuous journey of self-discovery and purpose. And learning to adapt to changes while valuing the unique perspectives and contributions that come with age. It is about cultivating a growth mindset that sees challenges as opportunities, recognizing that every phase of our life holds beauty and potential. There's a video with Dr. David Luria that shares a detailed discussion of the ins and outs of positive aging, as well as great ideas about how you can support yourself And/or your aging clients. And as a side note, I'm including a link in the show notes. Next section is titled Examples of Positive Aging. The embodiment of positive aging can be found in those who live their lives with love, joy, optimism, and purpose until the very end. They embrace a healthy lifestyle, maintain strong social connections, and have a positive mindset. Heather Lee, a 96-year-old Australian Olympic master walker, is a prime example of positive aging. At 96, she holds world records for walking, and she's happy and healthy to boot. There's a link in the show notes to an Australian Government health clip that tells her story beautifully. Several celebrities also embrace the idea of positive aging. Actresses like Jamie Lee Curtis, Andy McDowell, Julia Roberts, and Jane Seymour have all spoken out about the importance of changing the narrative. And University World News has published an article featuring several Australian octogenarians who have graduated. These are just a small sample of people who advocate for or epitomize the idea of positive aging. You can look far closer to home when working with clients by getting them to identify examples from their own families or communities. Next section's titled 6 Key Pillars of Positive Aging. If you're supporting aging clients in your coaching practice, you may want to focus on these 6 key pillars. Number 1 is a healthy lifestyle. Helping your clients maintain mobility, strength, and overall wellness through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and preventative care is crucial. These activities can and should be tailored to suit your client's interests and abilities. For some ideas, check out our article on yoga for seniors, and I'll put that in the show notes. Number 2, cognitive health and engagement. You can encourage your clients to stay mentally sharp through stimulating activities such as reading, puzzles, and learning new skills. Your client's cognitive health will also benefit from mindfulness practices and stress reduction techniques. Our article, How to Improve Cognitive Function, will also provide helpful suggestions. And again, I'm putting that in the show notes. Number 3, social connections. If you're working with aging clients, you'll be aware that loneliness is a significant challenge for older adults. Working with aging clients to build and nurture relationships, whether through family, friends, or community groups, is vital for emotional and physical well-being. And number 4 is mindfulness and emotional well-being. Developing resilience, practicing mindfulness and self-compassion, and seeking purpose contribute to emotional health. Encouraging activities like journaling, meditation, and reminiscence therapy can help your clients navigate emotional processes involved in aging. And number 5 is spiritual growth. For many, spiritual growth encompassing practices such as gratitude, community building, prayer, and mindfulness is a significant aspect of positive aging. It can contribute to the mental and physical health, resilience, and overall well-being of your older clients. And now number 6, financial security. While often overlooked, financial stability is an essential pillar. Helping your clients plan for retirement can therefore reduce stress and allow focus on other aspects of positive aging. And next is a section titled 5 positive psychological perspectives on aging well. Positive psychology offers several perspectives on aging well. Here are 5 key perspectives that you can work on with your clients. 1, strengths-based approach. Work with your client to identify and maximize their personal strengths. It will help them recognize their abilities and foster confidence and purpose. And number 2 is gratitude and positivity. Encourage your clients to practice gratitude and maintain a positive outlook. It can improve their mental and physical health and promote resilience against age-related challenges. And 3 is growth mindset. Create a space for your client to view their aging as an opportunity for learning. Learning and development will encourage ongoing engagement and adaptability. And 4, emotional resilience. Cultivating resilience will help your client manage the grief, loss, and other adversities that arise for them in their later life. And 5, purpose and meaning. You can help clients maintain a sense of purpose to support well-being and enrich life satisfaction as they age. Although these positive psychology perspectives are clearly beneficial, you will need to balance positivity with the acknowledgement of your aging clients' genuine challenges to remain Inclusive and realistic. Next section's titled How Attitude Influences Aging and Mental Health. It comes as no surprise that attitude plays a pivotal role in how we experience the aging process and how it impacts our physical and mental health. Practice daily gratitude. Focusing on what your body and mind can accomplish fosters resilience. Use tools like the Propel Physiotherapy Tips on Mindset for actionable ways to build a daily gratitude habit. And I'll put that link in the show notes. Stay physically and mentally active. Exercises release endorphins, reduces stress, and increases longevity. Pair physical movement with cognitive stimulation like lifelong learning or puzzles to keep your brain sharp. Maintain social connections. Surrounding yourself with friends, family, and intergenerational groups provides a Essential emotional support and wards off loneliness. A positive mindset fosters resilience, better stress management, and improved physical recovery while reducing the risk of depression. On the other hand, negative attitudes often increase the likelihood of isolation and a diminished sense of purpose, exacerbating emotional and cognitive decline. The transformative power of attitude lies in the ability to influence behaviors and outcomes. Creating either a cycle of growth or stagnation. Ultimately, adopting a positive perspective enhances quality of life and longevity. And this section's titled Challenges of Aging and How Positive Psychology Can Help. Your aging clients are likely to face various challenges such as physical health issues, emotional health decline, and changes in social roles. Positive psychology offers promising strategies to address these challenges by focusing on strengths, Well-being and personal growth in older adults. And they give 5 ways to do that. Physical and emotional health. Aging may bring physical health issues and poor emotional health, impeding quality of life and independence. Positive psychology interventions, such as mindfulness and gratitude practices, can increase emotional resilience and improve overall well-being. Number 2, social role changes. Changing roles in older age can lead to loneliness, stress, and a need for adaptation. Programs that promote purpose and meaningful engagement, like volunteering or mentorship, may help older people adapt and find fulfillment in new roles. Number 3, negative attitudes toward aging. Health and sensory problems can lead to negative attitudes about well-being, which can affect overall well-being. Positive psychology practices that cultivate gratitude, humor, and hope can foster a more optimistic outlook on aging, countering negative stereotypes. 4, fear of death. Many older adults may experience anxiety about mortality. Mindfulness and meaning-centered practices can help to reframe death as a natural part of life. 5 is loneliness. Social isolation and resulting loneliness are some of the most difficult challenges faced by many older people. Encouraging participation in community groups and social activities fosters connections and combats loneliness. Bar-Tur's Mental Fitness Program for Positive Aging is a good example of such programs. That's spelled B-A-R-T-U-R Mental Fitness Program. And next is some positive aging quotes and books suggested for you. Although the concept of positive aging as it is discussed here is fairly new, the idea of aging well or gracefully is far from it. And there are therefore several quotes and books about it that you may find interesting. Here are a couple of quotes. Aging and its accompanying challenges may be inevitable, but our later years do not need to be miserable. That was David Luria. And there is no escaping the tragedy of life, which is that we are all aging from the day we are born. That's Atul Gawande. The next thing is they're suggesting some

books. The Power of Positive Aging: 34:03

Successfully Coping with the Inconvenience of Aging by David Allan Luria. This excellent read provides practical advice about how to successfully cope with the physical and mental decline that accompanies aging. Based on the author's own journey through illness and aging, The Power of Positive Aging offers an easy-to-follow program of mental and spiritual exercises teaching mindfulness and acceptance, plus strategies for pursuing a balanced life and seeking and accepting social support. It shows how simple lifestyle changes can transform your everyday experience, helping you to live more fully. I think I'll read that. Well, the next book I have

read, it's called Being Mortal: 34:47

Medicine and What Matters in the End by Atul Gawande. Being Mortal offers a new perspective on the traditional medical model of aging and aged care. It provides examples of freer, more socially fulfilling models for assisting the infirm and dependent elderly, and Gawande explores the varieties of hospice care to demonstrate that a person's last weeks or months can be rich and dignified. Based on surprising research, this riveting story of aging asserts that medicine can comfort and enhance our experience even to the end, providing not only a good life but also a good end. And as I said, I just finished listening to the Being Mortal book, and I highly recommend that everyone reads it. The next book they're suggesting is Successful

Aging: 35:38

A Neuroscientist Explores the Power and Potential in Our Lives by Daniel Levitin. Levitin explores what aging really means using research from developmental neuroscience and the psychology of individual differences. Successful Aging highlights resilience strategies and practical cognitive-enhancing tricks everyone should do as they age. It is full of powerful insights that debunk the myth that memory always declines with age, confirm that healthspan, not lifespan, is what matters, and prove that our 60-plus years are a unique and new developmental stage. It inspires a powerful new approach to how we can think about our final decades, and it will revolutionize the way we plan for old age as individuals, family members, and citizens within a society Where the average life expectancy continues to rise. That sounds like another good book I plan to read. Next is The 10 Steps of Positive A Handbook for Personal Change in Later Life by Guy Robertson. This book challenges and debunks the inaccurate and negative attitudes about getting older. It provides clear, practical guidance for exerting more choices and control over the aging process. It focuses on the psychological and emotional elements of aging, as well as how to deploy a range of personal development techniques. The 10 Steps of Positive Aging provides you with the keys to a happier and more fulfilled later life. If you want to do aging differently, then this book will show you how. Another good one I'm going to read. The next section is about resources from positivepsychology.com. Our resources repository is full of gems you can use with your aging clients. From our larger packages like Well-Being X or Mindfulness X, right down to our individual tools and worksheets, you can find something to support your aging clients. My favorite worksheets from our library include the

following: 37:44

the Five Senses Worksheet. It's a simple, versatile way to evoke a mindful state wherever you are. The goal of this exercise is to practice being aware in the present moment throughout the day, whenever a formal mindfulness practice such as meditation or a body scan might not be practical. It can help aging clients combat challenges like anxiety, loneliness, and even forgetfulness. And I'm putting links to all this in the show notes. And the Self-Esteem Journal for Adults will promote positive self-reflection in your older clients and help build their self-esteem. In this self-esteem worksheet, they can note down meaningful daily events and reflect on them to enhance self-awareness and build confidence. For even more resources, our dedicated article on geriatric therapy explores evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral and life review therapy, along with practical activities to foster resilience and well-being in later life. If you want to transform later life into a time of continued purpose, vitality, and self-discovery, consider this collection of 17 validated positive aging exercises. Use them to make a measurable impact in coaching sessions, therapy work, workshops, and group interventions.

Again, I'll put that in the show notes. A take-home message: 39:07

aging doesn't have to be about loss or decline. We can find joy and have incredibly meaningful and productive lives right up to the end. By redefining successful aging and embracing a more positive perspective, our clients can navigate the later stages of their lives with grace, fulfillment, and vitality. Positive aging is about thriving despite the challenges and the inevitable. Let's help our clients celebrate the wisdom, opportunities, and richness that come with age. Wow.

That is the end of the article titled Positive Aging: 39:43

Redefining What Aging Successfully Means. And that was a lot. Good stuff though. Makes me want to seek counseling with a provider who specializes in helping people cultivate a longevity mindset. I think we could all use that. So we covered reframing internal stereotypes and we covered cultivating a longevity mindset in this podcast. I will share more on the remaining 3 categories for creating a positive attitude on aging which are practicing daily gratitude, staying mentally and physically active, and maintaining social connections in my next Aging with Grace podcast. And with that, I'm wishing you well and saying bye for now. Thank you for listening to the Aging with Grace podcast. For more information or to get into touch with us, please visit our website at agingwithgraceinfo.org. That is agingwithgraceinfo.org. Your independent life club is your kind of place, so come and join us at Aging with Grace.