Having a positive attitude toward aging can add years to your life

Q. I frequently surprise people when I tell them I am 92 years old. They ask me to what I attribute my longevity and I answer, “Genetics and attitude.” I suggest that attitude would be a major area to explore in your column. S.M.

Indeed, attitude counts! There is significant research that supports the importance of attitude towards aging and its role in how long and how well we live. 

But let’s first look at the other part of your answer: genetics. It is estimated that only about...