Research Database

Use the filters on the left to sort research by publication date, asset type, health asset, or health outcome.

February 26, 2012
Purpose in Life and Reduced Risk of Myocardial Infarction Among Older U.S. Adults with Coronary Heart Disease: A Two-Year Follow-Up
Can a sense of purpose reduce your risk of heart attack? This study shows that greater baseline purpose in life was associated with lower odds of myocardial infarction.
February 2012
Can Optimism Decrease the Risk of Illness and Disease Among the Elderly?
Research suggests that optimistic individuals are more likely to live a healthier and longer life. However, more longitudinal studies are necessary to learn more about when, why, how and for whom optimism plays a role in good health and whether interventions that enhance optimism will yield health benefits.
October 2011
Dispositional Optimism Protects Older Adults from Stroke: The Health and Retirement Study
Data from the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative study of people age 50 and older, was used to assess whether individuals with optimistic attitudes had lower incidence of stroke. Researchers found that people who are optimistic have a positive outlook on life and may choose to have a healthier lifestyle than those who are pessimistic—and that may increase their health and well-being.

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