Having a sense of purpose promotes health engagement, according to research published Dec. 4 by The Cigna Group. But fewer than one-third of adults have it.
In collaboration with YouGov, Cigna’s “Vitality in America” report fielded responses from 5,000 Americans. Researchers assigned “vitality scores” ranging from zero to 100 to respondents based on the Evernorth Vitality Index, which measures competence and autonomy, along with how factors connect across eight dimensions of health. Cigna evaluated an individual’s sense of purpose — defined as a meaningful, motivational intention — through “overall agreement with purpose-related statements.”
Strong purpose correlated with a higher vitality score and lower loneliness. More purposeful individuals reported greater autonomy over their physical well-being, as well. Of those with a strong purpose, 76% attended their annual physical, 61% had a dental exam in the past year, 68% regularly wake up feeling rested and 51% practice mindful nutrition — all greater percentages than the group of individuals lacking a sense of purpose.
Individuals who have a mental health condition struggled less with depression and anxiety if they felt a sense of purpose, too.
On average, Cigna determined the average vitality score for adults is 69.3, whereas those with a purpose and no chronic conditions have a vitality score of 90.2. However, even those with a chronic condition have a vitality score at 88.2, well above average — as long as they also feel a strong sense of purpose.
