Cognitive Style as a Predictor of Health Outcomes in Elderly Women: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Aging is generally associated with physiological and psychological changes, and older women often exhibit distinct health trajectories. Cognitive style, which includes distinct patterns of information processing such as optimism and pessimism, is increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of mental and physical health. This systematic review sought to assess the predictive validity of cognitive style on various health outcomes, particularly in the older female population.

Methods: Systematic review approach was employed. Major electronic databases were searched from 2010 to the present using combinations of terms related to “cognitive style,” “optimism,” “pessimism,” “older women,” and “health outcomes”. Eligible studies included longitudinal and analytical designs where cognitive style was assessed as an antecedent variable predicting later health. This study provides a qualitative synthesis of findings and does not include any quantitative statistical pooling, due to methodological heterogeneity across studies.

Results: Across the reviewed literature, optimism consistently predicted healthier psychological and behavioral outcomes among older adults, particularly older women. Higher optimism was associated with lower depressive and anxiety symptoms, greater psychological well-being, enhanced life satisfaction, more adaptive coping strategies, and better sleep quality. Conversely, pessimism was linked to elevated psychological distress and maladaptive coping. Several studies also highlighted the role of contextual factors such as physical activity, social support, and socioeconomic conditions in shaping cognitive styles in later life. Collectively, these findings suggest that optimism may function as a protective psychological resource promoting healthier aging trajectories.

Conclusion: Cognitive style serves as an important and modifiable predictor of health outcomes in older women. The findings strongly suggest that interventions focused on enhancing an optimistic style could be a valuable, non-pharmacological strategy for promoting successful aging in this population group.