A Multidimensional Concept of Successful Aging among Three Generations in Pakistan: An Exploratory Research

Abstract

This study has examined the subjective views of successful aging in intergenerational families (older adults, middle adults, adolescents). In this work, we have tried to explain the phenomenon of successful aging in a culturally specific way. This research draws on qualitative data collected through twenty interviews with grandparents, mother, father, and grandchild residing in five intergenerational families in Pakistan. Separate themes emerged in all the three generations, including subjective health criteria, social relations, inner standards, and religious aspect for grandparents; subjective health criteria, social relations, inner standards, and financial independence for parents; and subjective health criteria, social relations, autonomy, and academic aspect for grandchildren. These themes suggest a need to refine the concept of successful aging in Pakistan. The current study adds to the literature of successful aging in cross-cultural studies.