Importance of cognitive problem-solving ability for happiness

Why do I highlight importance of cognitive problem-solving ability today? Problem solving is a broad topic and observed in all walks of life and it is a lifelong process. Cognition is a core survival system for human being. When we connect these two large concepts covering multi-disciplines such as Cognitive Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, it automatically makes it a complex topic to deal with. However, my aim is to focus only one aspect of this topic today: happiness!

According to a study conducted at Iowa State University, they found that diminished cognitive problem-solving ability was a significant predictor of depressive symptoms in octogenarians, while living in a nursing home and greater neurotic tendencies increased depression among centenarians. The title of the media release explaining the study is "Iowa State researchers identify secrets to happiness, depression among oldest of old".

The research also confirmed that worry and anxiety contribute to depression in centenarians. And one of the things they're worried about, according to Martin, is the direction the country is headed and the world they're leaving for their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

So based on the findings of this study, one may ask that if we maintain our cognitive problem solving abilities and learn to eliminate or at least reduce worry and anxiety in our lives, does that mean we can catch happiness? Or could there be more to happiness from psychological point of view even in such a narrowed scope; let alone neglecting myriad of other compound factors and unknowns in our larger parts?