Latest news with #EnglishLongitudinalStudyofAgeing
NDTV
2 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
New Study Reveals Why Smarter People Make Fewer Life Mistakes. Its All In The IQ
A new study from the University of Bath's School of Management has found that individuals with higher IQs are better at making accurate predictions, which helps them make smarter decisions and achieve better life outcomes. The study titled IQ, Genes, and Miscalibrated Expectations was published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. The research shows that people in the lowest 2.5% IQ range made forecasting errors more than twice as large as those in the top 2.5%, highlighting a strong link between intelligence and real-world success. According to a News Release, the research used data from a nationally representative sample of people over 50 in England (English Longitudinal Study of Ageing ELSA), assessing their ability to predict their own life expectancy. Individuals were asked to predict their probability of living to certain ages, and these estimates were compared with the probabilities taken from Office for National Statistics life tables (a demographic tool used to analyse death rates and calculate life expectancies at various ages). The study controlled for differences in lifestyle, health, and genetic longevity. By analysing participants' scores on a variety of cognitive tests, as well as genetic markers linked to intelligence and educational success, Chris Dawson, Professor of Economics and Behavioural Science at the University of Bath, showed that smarter individuals tend to have more accurate beliefs about uncertain future events - they are more skilled at assessing probability. Individuals with a higher IQ are significantly better at forecasting, making fewer errors (both positive and negative) and showing more consistent judgement compared to those with a lower IQ. "Accurately assessing the probability of good and bad things happening to us is central to good decision-making," said Professor Dawson. "Almost all decisions we make, whether it's starting a business, investing, crossing the road, choosing who to date, all require probabilistic assessments. "IQ is already known to predict health, wealth, income, occupational status and educational attainment and this research highlights one possible channel through which people with a lower IQ do worse on all these outcomes." Professor Dawson suggests that explicitly stating probability estimates on information relating to health and finance for example, rather than relying on individuals to do their own calculations, could help people prone to forecasting errors to make more informed, accurate decisions. "The study shows that certain genetic traits linked to intelligence and education are associated with more accurate predictions, suggesting that lower cognitive ability may causally contribute to the formation of more biased assessments," said Professor Dawson."Probability estimation is the most important aspect of decision-making and people who struggle with this are at a distinct disadvantage. "Expectations about the future shape how households make critical decisions - like how much to save, when to retire, or whether to invest. Poorly calibrated expectations can lead to bad financial decisions, and reduced economic welfare, which can adversely affect national growth."
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
New Research Says This Daily Practice Could Stave Off Memory Loss. Here's What Doctors Say.
New research suggests practicing having a positive mindset could influence your memory down the road. There was a small link between participants who reported higher levels of wellbeing and those who performed better on memory tests. Here's what you need to know about mental health and its ties to your brain health. There is nothing worse than being told to "stay positive" after a rough day at the office, bad doctor's visit, or messy breakup. Yet, while it can be incredibly difficult to stay positive during difficult times in your life (and, of course, anxiety and depression are very, very real), new research suggests that striving to stay positive could influence your memory down the road. Of course, memory is complex, and it's impossible to stay upbeat and slap a smile on all the time, but these findings definitely provide a good reminder to focus on the good in your life. Because when you're able to proactively change your mindset, you might be better off down the road! Here's exactly what the study found, plus, what doctors want you to keep in mind when taking this information into consideration. Meet the experts: Clifford Segil, DO, a neurologist at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA; Thea Gallagher, PsyD, a clinical assistant professor at NYU Langone Health and a cohost of the "Mind in View" podcast The study, which was published in the journal Aging & Mental Health, analyzed data from nearly 11,000 women and men who participated in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, a long-term research study on adults over the age of 50. During the 16 year study, the participants answered questions on their wellbeing and memory every two years. Wellbeing questions included things like, 'I can do the things that I want to do,' and 'I feel that life is full of opportunities,' while the memory tests challenged the participants to recall 10 words immediately and then with a delay. The researchers found a small link between people who said they had higher levels of wellbeing and those who performed better on the memory tests. They also found that the link was still there, even after the researchers adjusted for participants who had depression. 'Higher levels of wellbeing are associated with better memory function over 16 years,' the researchers wrote in the conclusion. 'Better wellbeing may be a protective factor in retaining memory function from middle to later adulthood.' The researchers defined 'psychological wellbeing' as the balance between psychological, social, and physical challenges a person faces, along with their available resources to meet those challenges. The researchers refer to psychological wellbeing as a 'multifaceted construct' of emotional health (like happiness and confidence) and effective functioning (control over your life and your sense of purpose). The study didn't dive into this exact question (i.e. figuring out why they saw these results with participants), but experts certainly have a few theories. 'Feeling happy and smiling has been shown to increase brain neurotransmitter levels like serotonin,' says Clifford Segil, DO, a neurologist at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA. (In case you're not familiar with it, serotonin is considered a feel-good hormone, and it plays a role in regulating your mood and boosting feelings of happiness.) 'Feeling well is healthy and good for your brain health,' Dr. Segil says. 'Many patients with memory loss have lost the ability to feel happiness and wellbeing, which is bad for their brain health.' Good psychological wellbeing may also serve as a 'protective factor' for your brain, says Thea Gallagher, PsyD, a clinical assistant professor at NYU Langone Health and a cohost of the "Mind in View" podcast. 'Depression and anxiety can add stress to your life, and that can impact your memory and how well your brain works,' she says. So, it makes sense that being free from anxiety and depression have the opposite effect. We've already established that your mental health could have an impact on your brain health, but prior research already shows it has a major effect on your physical health. 'We have a lot of data to support the concept that stress, anxiety, and depression can take years off of your life,' Gallagher says. 'It impacts our whole health and our physical health.' On the flip side, thinking positively about life may be more helpful for life in the long-run, she says. And yes, your attitude can have an impact on your health outcomes, Dr. Segil adds. 'Fear about having a chronic neurological condition like memory loss often causes worsening memory loss,' he says. Again, some amount of stress and anxiety in life is normal. But trying your best to look at the glass as half-full, it may end up doing your health—and your memory—a solid in the long-term. You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
Powys County Times
19-06-2025
- Health
- Powys County Times
Staying positive ‘can cut the risk of memory loss in middle-age'
Staying positive can cut the risk of memory loss in middle age, a 16-year study suggests. Researchers tracked more than 10,000 people aged over 50 and found those with higher levels of wellbeing were more likely to have better scores on memory tests. They also reported a greater sense of control, independence and freedom to make choices than other people. While the link was small, researchers suggested it was significant. Co-author Joshua Stott, professor of ageing and clinical psychology at University College London, said: 'This study represents an important step toward understanding the interplay between wellbeing and memory over time. 'It offers new insights into how self-rated wellbeing is associated with memory and vice versa. 'While our findings are preliminary, they highlight the importance of considering psychosocial influences on brain health such as memory.' The study tracked 10,760 men and women over 50 who took part in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. They were assessed on wellbeing and memory every two years – a total of nine times during the 16-year study period, starting in 2002. Researchers checked people's ability to learn and recall 10 words immediately and after a delay. Wellbeing was also assessed using a quality-of-life questionnaire, looking at areas such as pleasure, control and autonomy. Questions people were asked included the phrases: 'I can do the things that I want to do', and 'I feel that life is full of opportunities'. The study found a small but significant association between higher wellbeing and better memory, which still existed even after any depression was taken into account. The researchers suggested reasons why wellbeing may have a positive impact on memory, such as people may be more likely to exercise, which improves health. Age, gender, other lifestyle factors and socioeconomic status may also have a negative or positive impact on wellbeing and memory, they added. The authors found no evidence that it was poor memory causing low wellbeing in some people, but they stressed this could not be ruled out. The research was funded by Alzheimer's Research UK and others, including the Medical Research Council. Emma Taylor, information services manager at Alzheimer's Research UK, said: 'Loving your heart, staying sharp and keeping connected are key to protecting our brain health as we age. 'There are 14 established health and lifestyle risk factors for dementia, including lack of physical exercise, social isolation, and depression, which are linked to wellbeing. 'This study found that people over 50 who reported they felt happier and more fulfilled in life had a better memory over time. 'However, this research is observational – and more work is needed to understand how a positive wellbeing and memory are connected and whether this has a knock-on effect on dementia risk. 'Looking after our mental wellbeing plays an important part in our overall health. 'And it's never too late to start taking steps to keep our brains healthy throughout our lives and lessen the devastating impact of dementia.' Study co-author Dr Emily Willroth, assistant professor of psychological and brain sciences at Washington University in St Louis, Missouri, said: 'Going forwards it would be fantastic if this research can build on the foundations of ongoing memory research to potentially inform strategies supporting cognitive health in ageing populations – that is the aim.'
South Wales Argus
19-06-2025
- Health
- South Wales Argus
Staying positive ‘can cut the risk of memory loss in middle-age'
Researchers tracked more than 10,000 people aged over 50 and found those with higher levels of wellbeing were more likely to have better scores on memory tests. They also reported a greater sense of control, independence and freedom to make choices than other people. While the link was small, researchers suggested it was significant. Co-author Joshua Stott, professor of ageing and clinical psychology at University College London, said: 'This study represents an important step toward understanding the interplay between wellbeing and memory over time. 'It offers new insights into how self-rated wellbeing is associated with memory and vice versa. 'While our findings are preliminary, they highlight the importance of considering psychosocial influences on brain health such as memory.' The study tracked 10,760 men and women over 50 who took part in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. They were assessed on wellbeing and memory every two years – a total of nine times during the 16-year study period, starting in 2002. Researchers checked people's ability to learn and recall 10 words immediately and after a delay. Wellbeing was also assessed using a quality-of-life questionnaire, looking at areas such as pleasure, control and autonomy. Questions people were asked included the phrases: 'I can do the things that I want to do', and 'I feel that life is full of opportunities'. The study found a small but significant association between higher wellbeing and better memory, which still existed even after any depression was taken into account. The researchers suggested reasons why wellbeing may have a positive impact on memory, such as people may be more likely to exercise, which improves health. Age, gender, other lifestyle factors and socioeconomic status may also have a negative or positive impact on wellbeing and memory, they added. The authors found no evidence that it was poor memory causing low wellbeing in some people, but they stressed this could not be ruled out. The research was funded by Alzheimer's Research UK and others, including the Medical Research Council. Emma Taylor, information services manager at Alzheimer's Research UK, said: 'Loving your heart, staying sharp and keeping connected are key to protecting our brain health as we age. 'There are 14 established health and lifestyle risk factors for dementia, including lack of physical exercise, social isolation, and depression, which are linked to wellbeing. 'This study found that people over 50 who reported they felt happier and more fulfilled in life had a better memory over time. 'However, this research is observational – and more work is needed to understand how a positive wellbeing and memory are connected and whether this has a knock-on effect on dementia risk. 'Looking after our mental wellbeing plays an important part in our overall health. 'And it's never too late to start taking steps to keep our brains healthy throughout our lives and lessen the devastating impact of dementia.' Study co-author Dr Emily Willroth, assistant professor of psychological and brain sciences at Washington University in St Louis, Missouri, said: 'Going forwards it would be fantastic if this research can build on the foundations of ongoing memory research to potentially inform strategies supporting cognitive health in ageing populations – that is the aim.' The study was published in the journal Aging & Mental Health.
Leader Live
19-06-2025
- Health
- Leader Live
Staying positive ‘can cut the risk of memory loss in middle-age'
Researchers tracked more than 10,000 people aged over 50 and found those with higher levels of wellbeing were more likely to have better scores on memory tests. They also reported a greater sense of control, independence and freedom to make choices than other people. While the link was small, researchers suggested it was significant. Co-author Joshua Stott, professor of ageing and clinical psychology at University College London, said: 'This study represents an important step toward understanding the interplay between wellbeing and memory over time. 'It offers new insights into how self-rated wellbeing is associated with memory and vice versa. 'While our findings are preliminary, they highlight the importance of considering psychosocial influences on brain health such as memory.' The study tracked 10,760 men and women over 50 who took part in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. They were assessed on wellbeing and memory every two years – a total of nine times during the 16-year study period, starting in 2002. Researchers checked people's ability to learn and recall 10 words immediately and after a delay. Wellbeing was also assessed using a quality-of-life questionnaire, looking at areas such as pleasure, control and autonomy. Questions people were asked included the phrases: 'I can do the things that I want to do', and 'I feel that life is full of opportunities'. The study found a small but significant association between higher wellbeing and better memory, which still existed even after any depression was taken into account. The researchers suggested reasons why wellbeing may have a positive impact on memory, such as people may be more likely to exercise, which improves health. Age, gender, other lifestyle factors and socioeconomic status may also have a negative or positive impact on wellbeing and memory, they added. The authors found no evidence that it was poor memory causing low wellbeing in some people, but they stressed this could not be ruled out. The research was funded by Alzheimer's Research UK and others, including the Medical Research Council. Emma Taylor, information services manager at Alzheimer's Research UK, said: 'Loving your heart, staying sharp and keeping connected are key to protecting our brain health as we age. 'There are 14 established health and lifestyle risk factors for dementia, including lack of physical exercise, social isolation, and depression, which are linked to wellbeing. 'This study found that people over 50 who reported they felt happier and more fulfilled in life had a better memory over time. 'However, this research is observational – and more work is needed to understand how a positive wellbeing and memory are connected and whether this has a knock-on effect on dementia risk. 'Looking after our mental wellbeing plays an important part in our overall health. 'And it's never too late to start taking steps to keep our brains healthy throughout our lives and lessen the devastating impact of dementia.' Study co-author Dr Emily Willroth, assistant professor of psychological and brain sciences at Washington University in St Louis, Missouri, said: 'Going forwards it would be fantastic if this research can build on the foundations of ongoing memory research to potentially inform strategies supporting cognitive health in ageing populations – that is the aim.' The study was published in the journal Aging & Mental Health.
