How Relationships Shape How We Feel About Aging

The way we view aging is not set in stone. It can change over time and is influenced by the people around us. A recent study looked at how support and stress from family and friends affect how older adults see themselves aging. The study followed over 22,000 adults for twelve years, from 2008 to 2020.

Key Findings

• Spouses Play a Big Role
• Supportive Spouses: Older adults with supportive spouses tend to have a more positive view of aging.
• Stressful Marriages: Stress in the marriage can make them feel less positive about aging.

• Stress from Other Family Members and Friends
• Unexpected Outcome: Stress from other family members and friends did not make them feel worse about aging. In fact, it made some feel better about getting older.

• Possible Reason: Dealing with stress from others can make a person feel stronger and more capable.

• Support from Children and Friends
• No Significant Impact: Support from children and friends did not seem to make a difference in how older adults felt about aging.

Implications

The study shows that our relationships are complex and can affect us in different ways. Future research should look into why these relationships have such different effects. Understanding these connections can help us age better and live happier lives.