The research was funded by the National Institute on Aging.
Many people think that getting older means losing abilities. A new study from Yale says the opposite can happen. Older adults can actually get better at thinking and moving as they age.
Researchers looked at more than 11,000 people who were 65 or older. These participants were part of a long‑term survey called the Health and Retirement Study. The scientists followed them for up to 12 years.
They measured two things:
- Cognition – using a simple test that checks memory and thinking.
- Physical function – by timing how fast a person could walk.
After the study period, 45 % of the participants improved in at least one of these areas.
About one‑third got better at mental tasks, and a similar share walked faster. Some improvements were large enough that doctors would call them “clinically meaningful.” When the researchers counted people whose thinking stayed the same (instead of getting worse), more than half avoided the usual expectation of decline.
Positive Beliefs Help
The team also asked participants how they felt about aging when the study began. Some had a hopeful outlook, while others expected the worst.
People who believed aging could be positive were much more likely to improve both mentally and physically. This link stayed strong even after the scientists considered age, gender, education, health problems, depression, and how long they were followed.
The result fits a theory called “stereotype embodiment.” It says that the ideas we pick up from society—through ads, TV, or friends—can become part of us and even affect our bodies.
Earlier work by psychologist Becca Levy showed that negative views about aging can hurt memory, slow walking, raise heart risk, and raise markers linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
The new findings show the reverse is also true: hopeful thoughts can boost health.
Why This Matters
The gains weren’t only seen in people who started with problems. Even those who began with normal memory and walking speed got better over time. This means aging isn’t just about fixing damage; it can be a time of real growth.
Because beliefs about aging can change, the study suggests that programs—like community talks, positive media messages, or simple workshops—might help many seniors stay sharper and stronger.
The research was funded by the National Institute on Aging.