You Can Actually Get Better With Age. Science Proves it.

A new Yale study followed thousands of older adults for up to 12 years and found something that challenges everything we assume about aging: nearly half of them improved. Here is what that means for you and the people you love and potentially care for.   

Many people have subscribed to a story about aging that after a certain age, we decline.  The mind starts to get less clear; the body gets a little slower and the goal shifts from thriving to managing.  Is that your perception too? 

It turns out, that is not the complete story.  A landmark study published in March 2026 in the journal of Geriatrics by Yale researchers Becca R. Levy, PhD and Martin D. Slade, PhD makes a compelling case that it is time to rewrite the narrative we’ve been telling ourselves.

What the Research Found 

The researchers analyzed data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a nationally representative, federally funded study of more than 15,000 Americans aged 50 and older, tracked for up to 12 years. Researchers measured two key health indicators: walking speed, often called the “sixth vital sign” (a well-established predictor of hospitalization risk, disability, and longevity) and cognitive performance (assessed with a validated tool covering memory, recall, and reasoning).

Their findings were striking over the 12 year study:

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One important note, when researchers averaged scores across all participants, the pattern of decline was evident.  It is when they looked at individuals separately, the different perspective emerged, older people are genuinely getting better, year after year. 

If extrapolated to the full US population, the researchers estimate that more than 26 million older Americans are experiencing an improvement in functioning.

What Makes The Difference: How You Think About Aging

The most fascinating finding in the study is not just that improvement happens. It is what predicts improvement. 

Participants who held more positive beliefs about aging were significantly more likely to show gains in both walking speed and cognitive function over time.  To evaluate the “positive age belief”, researchers used a validated scale with statements like, “I am as happy now as I was when I was younger.”  Those who agreed showed more improvement over time.  

Why This Matters For Families

If you are an older adult, or if you are caring for one, this research has real implications.  The societal messages that equate aging with inevitable loss can make an impact.  These impressions shape medical decisions and recommendations.  For example, a provider may be less likely to offer preventative rehabilitation to older patients, assuming it will not help.  These societal impressions also shape how older adults see their own future and they may literally be shaping how they function in the future.

Another finding in this research, was that most of those who improved did so in just one area, either cognition or walking speed, not both.  This challenges the perception of some that the mind and body decline at the same rate.  The picture of aging is far more hopeful than many have believed.  

Action Plan to Aging on Your Own Terms

Challenge your beliefs about aging

‍Pay attention to how you talk and think about getting older.  Do you use phrases like, “I’m too old for that”, or “What do you expect, I’m old, that’s what happens.”  Catch yourself and try to reframe your mindset.  Growth doesn’t have an expiration date.  

‍Seek out others who are thriving later in life‍

Actively seek out others who have a positive outlook on aging.  Surround yourself with a community who wants to live well as they age.  

‍Keep moving, consistently and at your own pace

Walking speed is a great predictor of health and independence.  Daily movement, even gentle walks indoors can make an impact.  Talk to your provider about realistic goals and before you start a new exercise regimen.  Having a friend to connect with during walks can help with keeping your commitment.

‍Stay mentally engaged with things that challenge and interest you 

Cognitive function, like physical function responds to use.  Pursue activities that interest and stretch you.  Learn something new, read frequently, have meaningful conversations and engage in your community if possible.  Consistent engagement is key.

‍Talk to your doctor about what improvement looks like for you

Initiate a conversation with your provider about “What would getting better look like for me?”  This research shows that improvement is within reach.  It is happening for nearly half of older adults.  

Final Thoughts

Millions of older people are improving physically and cognitively.  They are walking faster, thinking more clearly and defying what the culture around them said was “normal.”  This research highlights that believing improvement is possible is a key mindset to realizing the improSource:  Levy, B.R. & Slade, M.D. (2026). Aging Redefined: Cognitive and Physical Improvement with Positive Age Beliefs. Geriatrics

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