Most of us imagine young adulthood to be the peak of happiness and older adulthood to be the time for things to “go downhill.” Research tells us a different story, however. It turns out that life satisfaction is like a U-Shaped Curve. We start in childhood pretty happy, and then as we progress into adulthood, our happiness plummets in mid-life. This is often associated with work stress, striving, taking care of our parents and our children, and the challenges of marriage (and increasingly of divorce). Then, somewhere in mid-life – even for those without children – the happiness index rises again. Why?
- A deeper appreciation of the value of life.
- Feeling of fulfillment
- Greater ability to understand and handle life’s challenges
- Fewer expectations of themselves
- Ability to live in the present
- Learned to be satisfied with what you have
The ’50-’70s something’s can be the most emotionally rewarding and pro-social time of life. Late adulthood tends to be the most satisfying time of life…a time of emotional re-boot as our values, expectations, and even our brains shift our goals away from chasing status and achievement – toward building connections and community with others.
Old age certainly comes with challenges like physical complaints for example, however, love, meaningfulness, and power of connection don’t stop just because we get old. This is also a time to shine and use all those “terrible learning experiences” in life to your advantage, Gerontologists call this the paradox of old age – that as people’s minds and bodies decline, instead of feeling worse about their lives, they feel better.
For nearly 30 years, Granny NANNIES has referred professional care providers who have brought compassion, comfort, and expert care to clients who can remain at home while surrounded by the people and things they love.
If you or a loved one are in need of assistance with activities of daily living or help in monitoring other health concerns, CNAs and HHAs are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for all ages and levels of care. Granny NANNIES believes in treating clients with the highest level of respect and dignity and maintains the commitment to excellence that it was founded upon in 1990. For quality, trustworthy, reliable, and affordable care, Granny NANNIES is there.
Call 800-316-2669 for more information about hiring a professional care provider or utilizing other home health care services. http://www.grannynannies.com