Health pillars

Vital and healthy in the age

An American study has found that a strong personality and a positive lifestyle are crucial for a long life. Factors such as a healthy diet, exercise and mental fitness are important for good health.

According to a US study, these health pillars are determined by psychosocial attitudes. The study on the influence of intelligence on health and longevity was started in 1921 by the psychologist Terman and has since been continued for more than eight decades. The study leaders Friedman and Martin summarized their results:Vital und gesund im Alter

  • The balance between optimistic and pessimistic assessment of a situation is favourable to health. Highly optimistic people live shorter lives because they are too careless with their health due to risky hobbies, alcohol, nicotine, etc. On the other hand, the inherent attitude of pessimistic people also has a life-shortening effect.

  • Discipline in adulthood is an important personality trait for a long life. Disciplined people are more health-conscious in their behaviour. The "Prussian virtues" in a positive way include a feeling of responsibility and duty, thriftiness, detail-orientation, consistency, and determination.

  • Psychologically, a clearly defined goal-orientation is beneficial to health. People who know their goals, focus on them, and are committed to them are happier when they achieve them and therefore live longer. It's about realising your own potential.

  • Intact family relationships also characterise health and longevity. The lack of security in a broken relationship or after a divorce inevitably leads to an unhealthier lifestyle. Children in particular suffer from divorce.

  • In addition to the family, social networking also has an influence on lifespan. Relationships in a large circle of acquaintances are the guarantee for a long life. It is less important to feel secure in the circle of acquaintances than the frequency of social contacts, which should ideally be maintained with different personalities.

Source: Friedman H, Martin L. Die Long-Life Formel. Die wahren Gründe für ein langes und glückliches Leben. Beltz-Verlag 2012