Professor Yow Wei Quin’s Commentary on Resilience During the Mid-Autumn Festival

Shin Min Daily News, 14 Sep 2024, Professor Yow Wei Quin’s Commentary on Resilience During the Mid-Autumn Festival (translation)

The Mid-Autumn Festival, a traditional Chinese holiday, symbolises reunion and embodies hopes for family togetherness, harmony, and happiness. Many believe that older adults are more susceptible to sadness during this time, as celebratory activities can evoke memories of lost loved ones and intensify feelings of loneliness. Even when surrounded by family, seniors may feel isolated due to the remembrance of deceased friends and relatives. With retirement or transitions to more dependent living situations, their social circles often shrink, further increasing feelings of loneliness.

Despite these challenges, older adults often demonstrate greater resilience than one might expect. Studies show that seniors typically experience higher levels of positive emotions and respond more profoundly to positive events, supported by stronger emotional regulation skills. They can also experience both positive and negative emotions simultaneously, which enhances their resilience under stress. The Mid-Autumn Festival offers a valuable opportunity to provide emotional support, allowing caregivers and family members to help seniors celebrate by reminiscing about joyful moments and fostering a sense of home. Through positive interactions and emotional support, older adults can alleviate feelings of loneliness and regain inner peace.