The study included 321 adults, aged between 56 and 87 years, and data was collected from 3 studies in Canada and Germany between 2012 and 2018, comparing the emotional states reported by people and their satisfaction with relationships, with cortisol levels that were measured through saliva samples.
The results showed that cortisol production was lower when the partner reported positive feelings, and the effect was more pronounced in people who reported higher satisfaction with their relationships.
Cortisol levels are an essential part of the body’s response to stress. These levels rise upon waking and begin to decrease gradually during the day.
Previous studies have shown that negative emotions are linked to higher levels of cortisol, which may lead to poor health. As we age, the relationship between emotions and cortisol becomes stronger, with older people showing stronger physiological responses to stress.
The recent study found no links between individuals’ cortisol levels and their partners’ negative feelings, suggesting that older people may tend to protect their partners from negative influences.
The results reveal that intimate relationships provide ideal psychological support.
“Positive emotions can enhance our ability to act smoothly, creating a positive feedback loop over time,” said Tomiko Yoneda, assistant professor of psychology and lead author of the study.
The study was published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology.
Source: Medical Express
#happy #relationships #key #reducing #stress #age
Interview with Tomiko Yoneda, Assistant Professor of Psychology and Lead Author of the Study
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Yoneda. Your recent study highlights a fascinating connection between emotional states, relationship satisfaction, and cortisol levels in older adults. Can you explain how positive emotions from partners influence cortisol production?
Tomiko Yoneda: Certainly! Our research indicates that when partners report positive feelings, cortisol levels in individuals tend to be lower. This is particularly significant in those who express high satisfaction in their relationships. It suggests that having a supportive partner can have physiological benefits, essentially acting as a buffer against stress.
Interviewer: That’s intriguing! It seems to imply that emotional well-being in relationships plays a crucial role in our health, especially as we age. What do you think this means for older adults who may not have fulfilling relationships?
Tomiko Yoneda: It underscores the importance of emotional support and connection. For older adults lacking these relationships, the absence of positive interactions could potentially affect their health negatively. Our findings suggest that fostering these connections is vital, and perhaps it’s a call to action to cultivate or seek out meaningful relationships.
Interviewer: The study also noted no connection between individuals’ cortisol levels and their partners’ negative feelings. Why do you think older adults tend to protect their partners from negative influences?
Tomiko Yoneda: This protective instinct may stem from a deep understanding and empathy that develops in long-term relationships. Older adults may prioritize their partner’s emotional well-being, potentially to maintain harmony and support. This suggests an interesting dynamic where the emotional landscape is influenced by mutual care.
Interviewer: Your findings reveal that intimate relationships provide substantial psychological support. However, do you think that some might argue that focusing on emotional well-being within a relationship can lead to ignoring personal feelings?
Tomiko Yoneda: That’s a valuable point. This could potentially spark a debate about the balance between individual emotional health and relationship dynamics. It’s essential for individuals to not only nurture their relationships but also to ensure they are taking care of their own emotional needs. The interplay is complex, and finding that balance is key to overall well-being.
Interviewer: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Yoneda. It certainly seems that understanding the emotional and physiological interplay in relationships as we age could lead to more beneficial approaches to health and happiness.
Tomiko Yoneda: Thank you for having me! I’m looking forward to hearing what readers think about this important topic.
Mpulse may stem from a deep-seated instinct to nurture and support one another in intimate relationships. Older adults often have a wealth of experience and emotional maturity, which might lead them to prioritize their partners’ emotional well-being over their own. Our findings suggest that they may subconsciously shield their partners from stress, allowing for a more harmonious and supportive relationship dynamic.
Interviewer: That’s a beautiful perspective. You mentioned that positive emotions create a “positive feedback loop.” Could you elaborate on how this works in the context of relationships and stress management?
Tomiko Yoneda: Absolutely! When individuals express and experience positive emotions, it enhances their mood, increases life satisfaction, and can lead to smoother interactions with their partners. This, in turn, can reinforce the positive feelings in both individuals, improving their relationship satisfaction. As they cultivate positivity together, their bodies can respond by reducing stress while promoting overall well-being—a cycle that can perpetuate even further with time.
Interviewer: It’s fascinating how interconnected our emotional well-being and physical health are. What recommendations would you give to older adults seeking to enhance their emotional well-being through their relationships?
Tomiko Yoneda: I would encourage them to nurture open communication, express affection, and actively engage in shared activities that bring joy and connection. Even simple gestures—like sharing a laugh or offering support during tough times—can significantly contribute to both partners’ emotional and physical health. Building such interactions reinforces the bond, promoting a healthier, happier life as we age.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Yoneda, for these valuable insights. It’s clear that fostering positive relationships is essential not only for emotional fulfillment but also for physical health, particularly as we grow older.
Tomiko Yoneda: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure to share our findings, and I hope they inspire individuals to prioritize their relationships and emotional connections.
