Perceptions of Longevity and Successful Aging in Very Old Adults

Keywords

aging/ageing, developmental, gerotranscendence, spiritual well-being

Abstract

We examined perceptions of longevity and successful aging in young-old (60 to 74 years), old-old (75 to 89 years), and oldest-old (90+ years) adults drawn from the Louisiana Healthy Aging Study. Participants’ responses to three open-ended questions that assessed their attributions for longevity, what they look forward to, and advice for younger persons today were compared. Content analyses yielded three emergent themes: maintaining physical, mental, and relational well-being; living a healthy life; and living a faithful life. Implications of these findings for current views on successful aging and insights for promoting a long and healthy life are considered.

Original Publication Citation

Cherry, K. E., Marks, L. D., *Benedetto, T., *Sullivan, M. C., & Barker, A. (2013). Perceptions of longevity and successful aging in very old adults. Journal of Religion, Spirituality, and Aging, 25, 288-310.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2013-09-24

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/7673

Publisher

Journal of Religion, Spirituality & Aging

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Family Life

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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