"So, I guess those of us who have made it to our seventies can congratulate ourselves. By one measure anyway, we are successful agers!" I thought about this as I considered the concept of successful aging. Defining this notion may seem subjective, as each person's approach and mindset differ. However, if we consider healthy aging as supporting our body and well-being to live life on our own terms for as long as possible, we can find common ground in what successful aging looks like.
Successful aging holds significance from both an individual and national perspective. At an individual level, it translates to a better quality of life. The three primary components of successful aging—the absence of disease and disability, maintenance of high mental and physical function, and continued engagement with life—serve as determinants of this concept.
From a national standpoint, healthy aging assumes importance due to economic considerations. The issue of long-term care has always been a concern in policymaking, given the resources required to fulfill the needs of the elderly. With increased life expectancy and delayed health decline resulting from medical advancements, the focus on care has gradually shifted. Some countries, like those in the European Union, promote "Active Aging," which combines social behavior and long-term care. This approach emphasizes socially active engagement in various aspects of life, including work, community activities, residential care, and leisure pursuits, aiming to foster a harmonious relationship between activities and overall well-being in old age.
Several theories of successful aging offer valuable insights. The Continuity Theory posits that middle-aged and older adults preserve and maintain existing internal and external structures through adaptive choices. They rely on strategies rooted in their past experiences, creating continuity in psychological characteristics, social behavior, and circumstances. For instance, personal experiences shape the way individuals adapt to changes, allowing for the preservation of one's identity and connections. Whether it's a shift from competitive running to running for exercise or maintaining long-term friendships, continuity plays a vital role.
The Activity Theory of aging suggests that older adults find happiness by staying active and engaging in social interactions. Meaningful activities help them replace lost life roles after retirement, resisting the social pressures that limit their world. A study published in 2014 revealed that adults who participated in discretionary activities of their choosing reported a more positive outlook on life and overall wellness after eight weeks. Regions where people reportedly live longer, healthier lives emphasize the importance of friendships, family, moderate physical activity, and activities that bring joy.
Conversely, research has linked social isolation and loneliness to a negative impact on quality of life as we age. Regular social interactions have become increasingly vital, especially for older adults. A support system as we grow older enables us to cope better and overcome challenges. In a study published in the Journals of Gerontology, older adults who prioritized social engagement with their broader community tended to be more physically active and reported better emotional well-being.
Physical activity remains essential as we age. Regular, moderate exercise significantly influences the aging process. Whether it involves long walks, yoga sessions, jogging, or cardio dance classes, the key is finding activities that inspire movement and personal enjoyment.
No comments:
Post a Comment