We are talking about the population of the USA. Therefore the data cannot be immediately transferable to other countries. But this does not mean that we are faced with a trend that needs to be carefully evaluated, at least according to what a research published on Current Directions in Psychological Sciencecoordinated by Frank J. Infuma of Arizona State University.
What emerges? Basically, Americans in middle age are lonelier, more depressed, and have worse memory and health problems than previous generations. The reasons? At the root of everything there would be growing economic difficulties, weak social support and chronic stress could explain why the USA is falling behind other rich nations.
The value of social support
In short. Middle age is becoming more difficult than in previous generations. People born in the 1960s and early 1970s report higher levels of loneliness and depression, as well as poorer memories and reduced physical strength than those who came before them. What makes this trend particularly relevant is that it does not occur to the same extent in many other rich countries.
In several similar nations, particularly in Northern European countries, health and well-being in midlife have improved over time, rather than worsened. A key difference between the US and many European countries concerns support for families. Since the early 2000s, European nations have increased spending on family benefits, while spending in the United States has remained essentially unchanged. Compared to Europe, the United States offers fewer programs such as financial assistance for families with children, income support during parental leave, and subsidized daycare.
These policies can have a significant impact on middle-aged people, who often find themselves having to balance careers, children and caring for elderly parents. The study shows that adults in countries with stronger family support systems reported lower levels of loneliness and a smaller increase in loneliness over time. In contrast, loneliness among Americans has continued to increase from generation to generation.
The burden of income and assistance
The study also highlights healthcare as an important factor. The USA, as we know, spends a lot on healthcare. But people may face more difficulties in terms of access and costs. According to the authors of the research, higher healthcare costs can burden family finances, discourage preventative medical care and increase stress, anxiety and medical debt.
Growing income inequality could also help explain why outcomes for middle-aged people in the United States differ from those in other countries. Since the early 2000s, income inequality has increased in the US: to make matters worse, other research has shown that inequality can increase poverty, reduce opportunities for social advancement and limit access to education, work and social services. These disadvantages can ultimately impact physical and mental health.
How it can be improved
One of the study’s most surprising findings concerns cognitive health. Despite higher levels of education than previous generations, middle-aged Americans have shown a decline in episodic memory. The researchers noted that this pattern was not found in most comparable countries.
“Education is becoming less protective against loneliness, memory decline and depressive symptoms. On the possible solutions front, strong social support, a sense of control over one’s life and a positive attitude towards aging can help people cope with stress and maintain well-being”
is Infurna’s comment.
However, researchers argue that broader policy changes will likely be needed to address the root causes of the problem.
“On an individual level, social engagement is key. Finding community – through work, hobbies or care networks – can ease stress and improve well-being. On a policy level, countries with stronger social safety nets – paid leave, child support, healthcare – tend to do better.”
concludes the expert
