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“Knowing your sense of purpose is worth up to seven years of extra life expectancy” (Buettner 210).

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“The association between purpose and mortality persisted even after controlling for chronic medical conditions and disability” (Boyle. 577).

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“Spiritual well-being in later life is often tied to one’s sense of legacy and purpose beyond the self” (Jewell 120).

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“Belonging comes from being in relationships where you’re valued for who you are intrinsically and where you value others as well” (Smith).

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“Researchers suggest that cultivating purpose can help people buffer stress and become more resilient in the face of life’s challenges” (Oaklander).

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“In Nicoya, Costa Rica, elders maintain a plan de vida, or life plan, that gives them clear roles and goals well into old age” (Buettner 203).

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“It is not uncommon for older adults to redefine their purpose in light of loss, illness, or spiritual awakening” (Jewell 121).

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“Purpose was independently associated with a decreased risk of developing disability in essential daily activities” (Boyle et al. 576).

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Both authors present purpose as a protective factor for longevity and independence, though Buettner focuses on cultural examples, and Boyle provides statistical data. Together, they show that purpose is both measurable and observable across societies.

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Smith emphasizes belonging and emotional depth as core to meaning, while Jewell explores how purpose evolves with age and legacy. Their ideas combine to show how relationships and identity sustain a sense of purpose over time.

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Oaklander discusses how purpose increases psychological resilience, while Buettner offers real-world examples of communities where purpose leads to long, healthy lives. This connection supports a mind-body integration model for purpose.