At 94 years old, JoAnn Nielsen embodies the spirit of happiness, attributing her joy to simple pleasures: “Because I’m alive and I like people.”
As she paints a figurine of an owl during the ceramics class at the Murray Senior Recreation Center, she exemplifies how engagement and social interaction can enhance quality of life for seniors.
Every Thursday, Nielsen joins a lively group of 10 women who share laughter and camaraderie while working on a variety of creative ceramics projects, from salt shakers to festive Nativity scenes.
Instructor Cindy Mangone oversees their crafting activities, but it’s the supportive atmosphere of the class that truly nurtures their well-being.
Fellow class member Joleen Wayman expressed her affection for the gatherings: “I enjoy every minute I get to come here.”
The cheerful ambiance exemplifies the findings from Caring.com’s Senior Happiness Index, which recently ranked Utah as the happiest state for seniors, achieving a score of 7.69 out of 10 for its supportive living environment.
One of the factors contributing to this high ranking is Utah’s low percentage of seniors living alone, which is the third-lowest in the nation.
This lack of social isolation promotes community and connection among older adults, as illustrated by the interactions in the ceramics class.
Paulene Fawcett, another participant, emphasized that simply being around her classmates and engaging in creative activity makes her happy.
Socialization within groups like these helps older adults maintain their happiness and well-being, allowing them to get out of the house and make meaningful connections.
Carla McIntire recalled how during a physical therapy session, she eagerly discussed her upcoming ceramics class, showcasing the joy it brings her.
Over the years, she has inspired several friends to join her, strengthening their social circle.
Caring.com did not only recognize Utah as the happiest state for seniors but also rated it among the top five happiest states in general according to WalletHub.
This ranking considers various factors, including employment, health, and quality of childhood experiences.
Another key element to Utah’s happiness is the widespread engagement of seniors in volunteer work.
With over 44% of seniors volunteering, Utah leads the nation, helping to combat boredom and encouraging social interactions that foster a sense of community.
Caring.com noted that this active involvement significantly contributes to the well-being and happiness of Utah’s elderly population.
Nielsen reflected on this, saying, “We know how to love better,” highlighting the notion that kindness and support are ingrained in the community.
While the ceramics class may not be formal volunteering, the women find joy in creating projects for loved ones, which enhances their happiness.
Almost all the participants shared how their works—whether for children, friends, or neighbors—serve as gifts to brighten others’ days.
Heidi Robinson proudly showcased a purple jewelry box she crafted for her granddaughter’s birthday.
Similarly, Morrena Harris has dedicated time to create Nativity sets for her children, while Jackie Beebe designed egg platters and salt shakers for her sisters-in-law.
Without fail, the women remarked on the friendliness of Utahns as a contributing factor to their collective happiness.
Ultimately, the secret to their contentment revolves around a positive mindset.
Harris summed it up succinctly: “Don’t you think happiness is a choice?”
Nielsen emphasized the importance of attitude, stating, “I don’t have bad days, because I don’t want them.”
Beebe expressed gratitude for her health, highlighting that each day is a gift, and Cynthia Gray echoed this sentiment, saying, “I don’t have any reason not to be” happy as she ages.
Gray noted that aging has brought her happiness, with each decade surpassing the previous one in joy.
In addition to being the happiest state, Utah also ranks as the healthiest state for seniors, according to Caring.com.
This ranking is attributed to low rates of risky health behaviors, like smoking and excessive drinking, alongside excellent healthcare services available for the elderly.
Caring.com’s Senior Happiness Index identified the top ten happiest states for seniors:
1. Utah
2. Idaho
3. Connecticut
4. Delaware
5. Nebraska
6. Hawaii
7. New Hampshire
8. Minnesota
9. New Jersey
10. Vermont
Idaho closely follows Utah with a happiness score of 7.38 out of 10, showing a similarly low percentage of seniors living solo, under 21.93%.
Connecticut ranks third, boasting an average life expectancy of 79.2 years, underscoring the link between longevity and happiness.
As demonstrated in the ceramics class, the joy of companionship, creativity, and the choice to be happy significantly shapes the lives of seniors in Utah.
image source from：https://www.deseret.com/lifestyle/2025/06/12/why-utah-is-the-happiest-state-for-seniors/
