Ep. #216: Curiosity & Aging, with Michiko Sakaki

Curiosity as a Key Aspect of Adaptive Aging

Curiosity plays a crucial role in maintaining cognitive functioning, mental health, and physical health as we age. Research suggests that curiosity is not just limited to younger individuals, but also remains important for older adults. Contrary to the prevailing assumption that curiosity declines with aging, studies have shown that older adults can exhibit enhanced curiosity when exposed to potentially curiosity-evoking stimuli. This challenges the notion that curiosity is exclusively associated with children and suggests that older adults have their own unique forms of curiosity. Understanding the conditions that support and hinder curiosity in older adults can contribute to promoting adaptive aging.

Exploring the Link Between Curiosity and Aging

Research on curiosity and aging is a relatively less explored area. Michiko Sakaki and her team at the Affect and Learning Science Lab have conducted a review of numerous studies on curiosity from various fields, including neuroscience and psychology. Their work highlights the need to broaden our understanding of how older adults seek information and engage in curiosity compared to younger individuals. By considering the curiosity and information-seeking behaviors of older adults, we can gain a more comprehensive perspective on curiosity and its effects on adaptive aging.

The Empowering Aspect of Curiosity in Older Adults

Michiko Sakaki's research suggests that as individuals age, they accumulate knowledge and wisdom, which contributes to increased curiosity. Contrary to common assumptions, curiosity does not necessarily decline with age. Older adults may exhibit different curiosity-seeking behaviors compared to younger individuals, focusing on deeper exploration and generating self-generated questions. This counters the notion that older adults lose curiosity and challenges the age-related biases associated with curiosity. By recognizing the empowering aspect of curiosity in older adults, we can promote an inclusive understanding of curiosity across the lifespan and support adaptive aging.

Choose to be Curious

Ep. #216: Curiosity & Aging, with Michiko Sakaki

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Curiosity as a Key Aspect of Adaptive Aging

Exploring the Link Between Curiosity and Aging

The Empowering Aspect of Curiosity in Older Adults

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