Singapore (Commonwealth Union)_ There is growing evidence that good mental health can improve longevity. Good mental health can help individuals manage stress effectively, which in turn can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Chronic stress has been linked to inflammation in the body, which can damage cells and contribute to the development of these diseases. People with good mental health are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors such as exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep. These behaviors can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve overall health and longevity.
Recent research reveals that good mental health can assist in increasing longevity despite poor physical health. The research was conducted by the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore (NUS Medicine) and the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences on 1,000 Chinese Singaporeans between the ages of 85 and 99. It is one of the studies of Singapore Chinese Health Research, a longitudinal investigation that has followed people for almost two decades. The results of the study were published in the International Journal Of Experimental, Clinical, Behavioural And Technological Gerontology.
The participants were assessed for objective indicators, such as the absence of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and cancer, as well as daily activity independence. In addition, they were also evaluated based on subjective factors such as intellect, capacity to do everyday tasks, and satisfaction with relationships and life. According to NUS, in gerontology, such markers are often used to describe healthy aging. On the basis of these indicators, individuals were divided into four categories: fit and optimistic; somewhat fit and neutral; frail but resilient; and frail and despondent. The participants in the first three categories were financially stable and engaged in weekly physical activity. The participants were monitored for an average of three years to determine their survival. During this time period, 151 fatalities were recorded.
The survival probability was highest for the fit and optimistic group, which included 43.9% of individuals, followed by the fit and neutral group, which comprised 17.3% of people. The feeble and despondent group, which comprised 13.4% of the cohort, recorded the lowest survival rate. Those who were categorized as fragile and resilient had a 37% reduced chance of death than those who were weak and despondent. This group, which scored badly on objective markers like chronic illnesses but high on subjective markers like life satisfaction and social involvement, comprised 25.4% of the participants.
According to the study, “This is evidence of the benefit of a positive psychological state against physical, functional, and activity limitations”. According to Professor Koh Woon Puay, a senior scientist in the Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme at NUS Medicine, a positive outlook and high life satisfaction are associated with lower inflammation and improved immunity, and consequently a greater survival rate. Prof. Koh, who is also the primary investigator of the Singapore Chinese Health Study, warned that the results should not be extrapolated to the broader population. However, she noted that they provide proof that better psychological adaptation to declining health may mitigate the effects of aging.
According to the author of the study, Associate Professor Feng Qiushi from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, “Families can do their part to help build a spirit of resilience in seniors, so that they can live longer and enriching lives”. The researchers are now broadening their studies by examining Singaporeans in their 70s of various races. In conclusion, mental wellness is a crucial factor in improving longevity. A healthy mind contributes significantly to overall physical and emotional wellbeing, and it can help individuals lead longer and happier lives.
