Study: Older people are more positive than younger people

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – It’s no longer just a theory that we mellow with age. UMass researchers have discovered that senior citizens take a more positive approach to life than young adults.

The UMass findings came as no surprise at the Holyoke Senior Center. Members told 22News, they’ve known all along that older people are better at dealing with sadness, loneliness and disappointment.

South Hadley resident Carol Clark said “It’s not as important to be angry. It’s not as important to hold a grudge. It’s not as important to argue. It’s better to feel calm and peaceful and just let it go.”

The UMass Amherst research project studied the attitudes of dozens of older and younger adults. The researchers hope their findings will help caregivers at assisted living facilities.