Final answer:
According to Laura Carstensen's talk, older people are "happy" because they have several factors that contribute to their well-being, including good health, effective coping mechanisms, and positive self-perceptions of aging.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to research and theories discussed in Laura Carstensen's talk, older people are "happy" because they have several factors that contribute to their well-being.
- Health: Older adults are generally healthier compared to people with an external locus of control, which means they have a sense of control over their lives.
- Coping: They are better able to cope with the challenges of aging and life transitions, including finding replacement roles for those they have lost, by staying socially active and maintaining positive relationships with significant others.
- Positive Self-Perceptions: Older adults who have positive self-perceptions of aging tend to experience increased longevity and a greater sense of well-being.