What is the Definition of Successful Aging?

No one can accurately predict the future, but you can influence your own personal future. To a greater extent than you realize, your future is in your hands. The choices you make now, no matter how old you are - forty, sixty, even eighty and older - can still affect the quality and the length of your life. It is never too early, and almost never too late.

There is no single definition or model of successful aging. Havighurst (1961) defined it as "adding life to the years" and "getting satisfaction from life". The MacArthur studies looked at outcomes related to physical performance and other indicators of functional status and concluded that three components of successful aging include: good health, high mental and physical functioning, and active engagement with life. Fisher (1992) interviewed 19 senior center participants age 62-85 and found that they tended to define successful aging in term of strategies for coping. Gibson (1995) stated that successful aging "refers to reaching one's potential and arriving at a level of physical, social, and psychological well-being in old age that is pleasing to both self and others." In the Encyclopedia of Aging, Palmore (1995) says that a comprehensive definition of successful aging "would combine survival (longevity), health (lack of disability), and life satisfaction (happiness)."

Overall, one conclusion we can draw is that successful aging is in the eye of the beholder. With this idea that successful aging is what each individual defines as successful aging for oneself, we would ask that you share your own ideas. Please share what you feel helps you age successfully. Click Here to email us your ideas!

What do the experts say about living longer?

Preserving one's health can add years to life. Life expectancy was 77.3 years in 2002 with half of all Americans living to age 81. One can gain years in life expectancy by taking the necessary steps toward living a longer life. A life table at www.agingresearch.org/calculator can help you calculate your personal chances.

Tips for Living Well:

· Form stable relationships - family, friends and even pets are a buffer against stress and isolation.

· Maintain a healthy body weight by eating a balanced sensible diet.

· Engage in regular physical activity, even if it is just taking a walk every day.

· Stay active and involved.

· Learn how to manage stress.

· Take the time to think about your personal priorities and goals.

· Know what your choices are and plan ahead.

· Get the facts you need before making important decisions.

· Accept support and input from those close to you.

· Be flexible in your planning to allow for different circumstances and the unexpected.

Here are links to three articles with additional tips and information for successful aging:

Mayo Clinic Recommendations

Healthy Essentials

Longevity & Health

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Last Updated on 10/11/07

Care for Elders is supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation through its Community Partnerships for Older Adults (CPFOA) national initiative.
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