Aging
Purpose in Life vs. Satisfaction with Life: Which is more essential for longevity with preserved physical and cognitive function? Nicole S. Pippard, MPH* Nicole Pippard Pippard Pippard Pippard Pippard Pippard UC San Diego & San Diego State University
As populations age, understanding determinants of healthy aging is increasingly important. Epidemiologic research predominantly focuses on risk factors for morbidity and mortality, with limited attention to psychosocial health assets that may promote longevity and preserve cognitive and physical functioning. This study aimed to examine associations of purpose in life (PIL) and satisfaction with life (SWL) with exceptional and healthy longevity.
We studied 25,050 postmenopausal women in the Women’s Health Initiative who completed a psychosocial questionnaire in 2012 (baseline) and had potential to survive to age 90 or older. PIL and SWL were assessed using validated self-report measures. Exceptional longevity was defined as survival to ages 90, 95, or 100 vs. death prior to these ages. Healthy longevity was defined as survival to age 90 with intact mobility and cognitive function vs. impaired survival. Logistic regression models estimated ORs and 95% CIs, with sequential adjustment for sociodemographic, health, and psychosocial factors. Mediation analyses explored underlying psychological and behavioral pathways for significant associations.
A total of 18,406 women survived to age 90 or older. After adjustment, a 1-SD increase in PIL was associated with greater odds of survival to age 90 (OR 1.2; 95% CI 1.1-1.2; P < 0.001), age 95 (OR 1.2; 95% CI 1.1-1.2; P < 0.001), and age 100 (OR 1.3; 95% CI 1.2-1.4; P < 0.001). Women with higher PIL had greater odds of intact survival to age 90 (OR 1.2; 95% CI 1.1-1.2; P < 0.001). SWL and longevity associations were attenuated after adjustment for health and psychosocial factors. Resilience and physical activity partially mediated these associations.
PIL was independently associated with exceptional longevity and intact survival in later life, while SWL was not consistently associated with these outcomes after adjustment. Findings highlight meaningful differences in how dimensions of psychological well-being may shape healthy aging.
