Optimists have higher perceived control of their hypertension when compared to pessimists.
Additionally, optimists had higher levels of exercise and fewer medication barriers when compared to poor health realists.
A confirming study was conducted for the Center for Health Services Research in Primary Care, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Duke University Medical Center Methods: The Charleston Co morbidity Index was cross classified with self-rated health, producing four health-congruence groups:
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good health realists
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poor health realists
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health optimists
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health pessimists.
Data for this study were obtained from 588 hypertensive veterans (mean age = 63) at baseline of a clinical trial to improve blood-pressure control before randomization to an intervention.
Results: Optimists had higher perceived control of their hypertension when compared to pessimists. Additionally, optimists had higher levels of exercise and fewer medication barriers when
compared to poor health realists.
Discussion: The result of the study indicates that development of Patients Profiles will lead to better patient outcomes, improving the patients health, by identifying high-risk patients that could benefit from more education.
Patients can learn about treatment options and about management and proactive care.
Health congruence classification could be a useful tool to alert practitioners of patients who may be having difficulties managing their hypertension.
This study confirms that if people who have a good outlook on life are more likely to exercise and eat right.
People who are depressed or chronically upset will come up with excuses instead of doing what they need to do to stay healthy.
Get in touch with your feelings and do whatever it takes to improve your mood. Not only will you feel better, but it is scientifically proven that you will have an easier time doing what it takes to make you healthy, exercise, eat less salt, and be happy.
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