Wednesday, January 1, 2003

Study points the way to successful aging

As life expectancy in the United States continues to move higher, the number of people over age 65 will grow dramatically in the coming decades. Likewise, the "oldest old," those individuals age 85 or older, are the fastest growing segment of the population. These men and women are pioneers in the country of extended old age.

This group is exploring new territory, proving that the post-retirement years do not have to be a period of loss and inexorable decline. Quite the opposite. These later years provide powerful opportunities for continued growth for affirming or reconsidering one's priorities, taking on new challenges, exploring uncharted paths.

To help older adults take advantage of the opportunities presented by longer lives, the AARP Foundation has published a booklet called "Aging Successfully" which describes the results of five research projects on successful aging and suggests what individuals can do to improve their chances of aging well.

"Successful aging is best understood as a process, rather than an outcome a way of doing and being," says Betsy Sprouse, Ph.D., program manager of the AARP Foundation. "It is about our ongoing, day-to-day efforts to live as well as possible during the latter part of our lives. It is not confined to the most vital and vibrant among us."

While good health is important to successful aging, it is not the whole story. A little over more than one-quarter of the group of older adults who participated in one of the research projects sponsored by the AARP Foundation have serious, even multiple chronic diseases and conditions but see themselves as aging well. Conversely, some healthy older adults, as many as one-third in the study, do not see themselves as aging well.

These results highlight an important point attitude appears to count in a number of ways. Older adults who are aging well are characterized by a positive outlook on life, a willingness to continue to learn and satisfaction with the way things are. The acceptance of aging is another part of the attitude equation. Those who have come to terms with the realities and limitations of aging are able to adjust their perspectives. They can find meaning and joy in the life they have.

Financial security is another factor in successful aging. Older adults with inadequate financial resources or reported problems in their neighborhoods were less likely to see themselves as aging successfully than those who are financially secure.

Staying involved in the outside world is important as well. The research suggested that those who are aging successfully are widely engaged in a variety of activities including paid or volunteer work, taking classes or participating in cultural activities.

Finally, the study shows that relationships, particularly close family relationships, matter. A happy marriage or other long-term relationship significantly increases the chances of successful aging, as does a spouse or partner who is also aging well. Conversely, having children with financial, health, relationship or emotional problems is associated with lower chances of successful aging.

Researchers looking at the issue of successful aging have identified the following 10 behaviors and attitudes that provide older adults with the best chance of aging well:

1. Don't smoke if you still do, it's never too late to quit.

2. If you drink, drink moderately one alcoholic drink a day doesn't hurt, and may even reduce your chances of heart disease. But alcohol abuse can lead to disability and early death.

3. Stay physically active find something you love to do and do it regularly. Exercise is associated with a variety of good outcomes, from increased memory to reduced rates of heart disease, depression and cancer.

4. Eat a balanced diet limit the fats in your diet and try to include at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day.

5. Avoid obesity being significantly overweight is associated with a variety of bad health outcomes including heart disease and diabetes.

6. Protect your vision and hearing your eyes and ears are critical to functions such as driving and reading. They also help you remain engaged in conversations and relationships.

7. Get regular health care and vaccinations you can prevent many problems before they require more serious treatment.

8. Maintain a vibrant social network and strong personal relationships it's good for your health and for how you experience your later years.

9. Stay active in professional, community or other activities feeling useful is positively associated with good outcomes as people age.

10. Plan for your financial well-being having the money to meet your material needs can increase your chances of successful aging.

To receive a copy of "Aging Successfully," contact AARP at (800) 424-3410 and request publication #D17507.

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