Abstract
As researchers and theorists have sought to develop a cohesive definition of successful aging, the experiences and perspectives of older adults’ have largely been overlooked. This study sought to redress that gap through an online survey using convenience sampling. Participants (N = 477) were asked how important 25 specific attributes of successful aging were to them, which were compiled from the substantive literature that examined successful aging from the perspective of older adults. Eleven attributes were reported as important or very important to them as they age for more than 90% of the participants. These attributes included “remaining free of chronic diseases” and “feeling good about myself.” Results of an exploratory factor analysis indicated four dimensions of successful aging (Autonomy, Adaptation and Coping; Being Healthy; Self-Determination and Engagement with Life; and Social Relationships and Interactions), which explained 57.06% of the variance. These findings suggest that older adults’ definition of what is important to them as they age is multidimensional, with having access to affordable healthcare and remaining alert and mentally active as critical elements followed by elements of autonomy, self-determination, physical health, and social engagement. A multidimensional assessment of successful aging can assist health and social service providers in determining the dimensions that are important to an older client, which in turn will inform prevention and intervention programs.
Presenters
Barbra TeaterProfessor of Social Work, College of Staten Island and The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, United States Jill Chonody
Associate Professor, Social Work, Boise State University, Idaho, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Social and Cultural Perspectives on Aging
KEYWORDS
Successful Aging, Measurement; Healthcare; Social Services; Autonomy; Self-Determination
