Older Women's Perceptions of Successful Aging

Abstract

ABSTRACT Little is known about the ways in which older adults view or define successful aging. This qualitative study, therefore, examined older women's perceptions of the characteristics and components of successful aging. Transitions are complex person–environment interactions that include the disruption of the individual's life and their responses to the disruption. Older adults experience many life transitions or changes in life situations, such as relocation or loss of spouse, that result in new life patterns and perhaps even changes in well-being. Because transition is theoretically a time of change that involves introspection and self-examination, older adults who are experiencing transition, such as the study sample, are expected to be able to express their views on successful aging. Acceptance of change, engagement, and comportment emerged as key components of successful aging. Findings from this study can contribute to the development of interventions for older women, in particular, and their families to promote and reinforce personal, social, and behavioral factors that lead to successful aging.