Mindset and mobility: Yale study finds key to aging well after 65

A Yale-led 12-year study of adults over 65 found that about 45% improved in cognition, walking speed, or both. Those with more positive attitudes toward aging were more likely to show improvement, and walking speed was used as a 'sixth vital sign' predictor of longevity. The findings suggest that positive beliefs about aging can boost health while negative stereotypes can hinder it, and that small daily actions—like walking, socializing, and regular health checkups—can help preserve brain and physical function as people age.