Elderly people living in Sardinia's Blue Zone are distinguished not only by their longevity, but also by certain psychological characteristics. This is according to a new study from the University of Cagliari, conducted by Maria Chiara Fastame, professor of the Department of Education, Psychology, and Philosophy, and published in the International Journal of Applied Positive Psychology.
The research is part of a line of studies started in 2010 and dedicated to deepening the role of psychological factors in the successful aging of populations in the Sardinian Blue Zone and other rural and urban areas of the island.
"The latest survey, conducted on a sample of 125 elderly people aged between 71 and 101," the University explains, "highlighted that elderly residents in the Blue Zone exhibit higher levels of the personality trait of openness to experience than a group of peers from another rural area of Sardinia not belonging to the Blue Zone."
Those in the Blue Zone are more curious, more inclined to share experiences with others, and more inclined to dedicate time to cognitively stimulating activities and hobbies. "This combination of characteristics," the University emphasizes, "contributes to maintaining active mental abilities and promoting a participatory lifestyle. The study also highlights improved coping skills, that is, more effective strategies for dealing with daily challenges and adapting to the changes and losses that can accompany aging."
"Coping strategies," explains Fastame, "allow us to face unexpected events, difficulties, and problems by seeking the solution that we hope will be the most beneficial, optimizing the resources available."
The results also show greater emotional competence: older adults in the Blue Zone show a better ability to recognize, express, and regulate their own emotions and those of others.
Three young psychologists collaborated on the research: Benedetta Brandas, a graduate student at the School of Specialization in Health Psychology at the University of Cagliari, and newly minted psychologists Corinne Martis and Sofia Valenzuela Pusceddu, who participated in the study as part of their thesis work.
(Unioneonline)
