Content area
Full Text
The purpose of this study was to investigate older adults' perceptions of successful aging within the context of the theory of successful aging to validate and further inform this theory. This research was a secondary, qualitative analysis of data from two earlier studies in which participants were asked to provide a response to the open-ended question, "What does successful aging mean to you?" Content analysis using multiple coding was independently conducted by the investigators. Eight broad themes emerged: active independence, relationships with people, relationship with God, comfort resources, health, beneficial contribution, positive perspective/coping, and freedom. Differences and similarities of themes by study subgroups were also explored. The coping processes, functional performance mechanisms, and intrapsychic factors from the theory of successful aging were well represented in the findings of this study. The coping process of spirituality was less frequently represented, whereas that of gerotranscendence was slightly more often described. Interventions that enhance these factors associated with successful aging have the potential to improve quality of life and provide appealing, meaningful activities for older adults.
Keywords: successful aging; older adult; content analysis; coping; successful aging theory
Current U.S. estimates show an expected increase in those age 65 years and older to 88.5 million in 2050 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2010). This trend, often referred to as "the graying of America," has influenced research and theory to better understand successful aging. The purpose of this article is to examine older adults' descriptions of successful aging within the context of an evolving theory of successful aging to identify potentially needed theory revisions.
THEORY DEVELOPMENT OVER TIME
Theories of successful aging have been developed to explain and enhance understanding of the phenomenon, to guide research, and to elucidate potential intervention areas. Well-known theories include those of Rowe and Kahn (1998), Crowther, Parker, Achenbaum, Larimore, and Koenig (2002), and Tornstam (1994). As part of an effort to develop a conceptual basis of a "new gerontology," Rowe and Kahn (p. xii) defined successful aging as "the ability to maintain low risk of disease-related disability, high mental and physical function, and active engagement with life." This theory is entrenched in a conceptualization of successful aging in which both physical and mental factors enable individuals to continue to function effectively into old age. Maintaining...