A 16-year-long study suggests that maintaining a positive outlook on life may play a role in reducing memory loss during middle age. Researchers tracked more than 10,000 adults over the age of 50 and found that those who reported higher levels of psychological well-being consistently performed better in memory assessments over time.
Participants who expressed a greater sense of control, autonomy, and life satisfaction also demonstrated stronger memory retention, highlighting a subtle but meaningful link between well-being and cognitive function.
A Long-Term Look at Memory and Mental Health
Led by researchers from University College London, the study followed 10,760 men and women enrolled in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. Participants were evaluated on memory and overall well-being every two years between 2002 and 2018, completing a total of nine rounds of assessments.
Memory tests included immediate and delayed recall of a list of ten words, while well-being was measured using a quality-of-life questionnaire that focused on factors such as enjoyment, independence, and perceived opportunities in life. Sample statements included “I can do the things I want to do” and “Life is full of opportunities.”
A Link Between Well-Being and Memory
The findings revealed a small but statistically significant association between higher levels of subjective well-being and better memory performance. This effect persisted even after accounting for symptoms of depression.
According to co-author Joshua Stott, Professor of Ageing and Clinical Psychology at UCL, “This study represents an important step in understanding how well-being and memory interact over time. It provides new insight into the ways self-reported well-being is linked with cognitive health, and vice versa.”
The researchers proposed several explanations for the connection. Individuals with higher well-being may be more likely to engage in physical activity, which is known to support brain health. Additionally, factors such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, and lifestyle habits may influence both memory and emotional well-being.
Importantly, the study found no clear evidence that declining memory directly causes lower well-being, but researchers acknowledged the possibility could not be entirely ruled out.
Expert Perspectives and Future Implications
Commenting on the findings, Emma Taylor, Head of Information Services at Alzheimer’s Research UK, noted: “While this is observational research, it highlights the growing importance of considering psychological and social factors when addressing brain health. Looking after your heart, staying mentally active, and staying socially connected are key to protecting your brain as you age.”
She added, “It’s never too late to take steps that support mental well-being and help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.”
Co-author Dr Emily Willroth, Assistant Professor of Psychological and Brain Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis, said she hopes the study will lay the groundwork for future research. “Our goal is to inform strategies that promote cognitive health in older populations, building on existing memory research to better support ageing communities,” she said.
