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Recent findings from UC Davis suggest that possessing a sense of purpose in life can contribute to longer lifespans and lower the chances of developing cognitive impairments like dementia by roughly 28%. This study, published in The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, focused on individuals living in Blue Zones worldwide, regions renowned for their high rates of longevity.
Professor Aliza Wingo from the UC Davis Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences noted: “Our research indicates that having a sense of purpose makes the brain more resilient as it ages. This applies even to individuals genetically predisposed to Alzheimer’s, showing a correlation between a purposeful outlook and a delayed or reduced incidence of dementia.”
The study followed over 13,000 participants aged 45 and older for up to 15 years, assessing their cognitive health with biennial tests throughout the duration of the research.
Participants’ psychological well-being was measured through a survey assessing their level of agreement with statements such as “I am proactive in pursuing the plans I create for myself” and “My life has direction and purpose”.
A strong sense of purpose proved beneficial across various racial and ethnic groups and remained significant even when considering other dementia risk factors like depression and the APOE4 gene.
Individuals with a greater sense of purpose experienced an average cognitive decline delay of almost two months compared to those with a lesser sense. The researchers pointed out that this presents a side-effect-free alternative to current medications providing similar outcomes but with higher risks and costs.
Unlike these medications, having a life purpose is free, safe for everyone and accessible. The study did not investigate what participants felt their life purpose was.
Previous studies have identified a few interactions and activities that contribute to a sense of purpose:
- Relationships: Caring for, spending time with and supporting family, friends and partners
- Work: Continuing professional working, mentoring, volunteering or contributing to community causes
- Spirituality: Religious beliefs and spiritual practices, as well as being involved in faith-based communities
- Personal goals: Pursuing hobbies, learning new skills or setting and achieving personal milestones
- Helping others: Everyday acts of kindness, philanthropy, caregiving or advocacy work
The researchers acknowledged that while the study found a correlation between a lower risk of dementia and a higher sense of purpose, it could not definitively prove that this sense of purpose directly led to the reduced risk. However, they are hopeful that it could pave the way for future research into this intriguing link.
Thomas Wingo, co-author of the study and a professor and neurologist at UC Davis Health, said: “What’s exciting about this study is that people may be able to ‘think’ themselves into better health. Purpose in life is something we can nurture. It’s never too early – or too late – to start thinking about what gives your life meaning.”
