People stress less when they're older: The benefits of aging gracefully

If you're constantly stressed, then you might be glad to hear that most people experience less stress when they're older.

In a groundbreaking study led by Professor David Almeida from Penn State, intriguing insights into the effects of daily stress on individuals as they age have emerged. 

Let's find out more!

People experience less stress when they're older

The findings reveal an encouraging trend: as people grow older, the number of daily stressors they encounter steadily declines, accompanied by a reduction in emotional reactivity to these stressors. 

Younger participants, such as 25-year-olds, faced stressors on almost half of their days, while 70-year-olds experienced such challenges on only 30% of their days. 

Moreover, the research suggests that emotional responses to stressors tend to improve over time, highlighting enhanced coping mechanisms and emotional resilience.

However, the research team notes that this favorable pattern extends until approximately the mid-50s, after which there may be a slight uptick in daily stressors and challenges as individuals enter their late 60s and early 70s.

One particularly captivating aspect of the study lies in its relevance to the post-pandemic era. 

It only works when you age gracefully

Professor Almeida emphasizes the significance of aging gracefully and its profound influence on individual well-being. 

Drawing from his previous research, which linked emotional responses to everyday stressors with future health and well-being outcomes, including mental health, chronic conditions, and mortality, the current findings provide hope that individuals become better equipped to navigate daily stressors as they age, fostering a more positive and healthier outlook on life.
 

• Related news:
• research
• stress
• mental health
• seniors
• 24 July 2023

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