Maintaining a positive outlook could significantly reduce the risk of memory decline in middle age, according to a substantial 16-year study.
Researchers tracking more than 10,000 individuals over the age of 50 discovered a compelling correlation: participants reporting higher levels of wellbeing consistently achieved better scores on memory tests.
The extensive research indicated that those with a more positive disposition also reported a greater sense of personal agency, including enhanced feelings of control, independence, and the freedom to make their own choices.
While the observed link between positivity and cognitive health was modest in scale, the study’s authors emphasised its statistical significance, suggesting a tangible connection between psychological state and the preservation of memory function as people age.
“This study represents an important step toward understanding the interplay between wellbeing and memory over time,” Co-author Joshua Stott, professor of ageing and clinical psychology at University College London, said.
“It offers new insights into how self-rated wellbeing is associated with memory and vice versa.
“While our findings are preliminary, they highlight the importance of considering psychosocial influences on brain health such as memory.”
The study tracked 10,760 men and women over 50 who took part in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing.
They were assessed on wellbeing and memory every two years – a total of nine times during the 16-year study period, starting in 2002.
Researchers checked people’s ability to learn and recall 10 words immediately and after a delay.
Wellbeing was also assessed using a quality-of-life questionnaire, looking at areas such as pleasure, control and autonomy.
Questions people were asked included the phrases: “I can do the things that I want to do”, and “I feel that life is full of opportunities”.
The study found a small but significant association between higher wellbeing and better memory, which still existed even after any depression was taken into account.
The researchers suggested reasons why well-being may have a positive impact on memory, such as people may be more likely to exercise, which improves health.
Age, gender, other lifestyle factors and socioeconomic status may also have a negative or positive impact on wellbeing and memory, they added.
The authors found no evidence that it was poor memory causing low wellbeing in some people, but they stressed this could not be ruled out.
The research was funded by Alzheimer’s Research UK and others, including the Medical Research Council.
Emma Taylor, information services manager at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “Loving your heart, staying sharp and keeping connected are key to protecting our brain health as we age.
“There are 14 established health and lifestyle risk factors for dementia, including lack of physical exercise, social isolation, and depression, which are linked to wellbeing.
“This study found that people over 50 who reported they felt happier and more fulfilled in life had a better memory over time.
“However, this research is observational – and more work is needed to understand how a positive wellbeing and memory are connected and whether this has a knock-on effect on dementia risk.
“Looking after our mental wellbeing plays an important part in our overall health.
“And it’s never too late to start taking steps to keep our brains healthy throughout our lives and lessen the devastating impact of dementia.”
Study co-author Dr Emily Willroth, assistant professor of psychological and brain sciences at Washington University in St Louis, Missouri, said: “Going forwards it would be fantastic if this research can build on the foundations of ongoing memory research to potentially inform strategies supporting cognitive health in ageing populations – that is the aim.”
The study was published in the journal Aging & Mental Health.
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