| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Encyclopedia of behavioral medicine |
| Editors | Marc D. Gellman |
| Place of Publication | Cham, Switzerland |
| Publisher | Springer, Springer Nature |
| Pages | 1711-1713 |
| Number of pages | 3 |
| Edition | 2nd |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9783030399030 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2020 |
Abstract
Positive aging incorporates concepts and research from developmental psychology, gerontology, and positive psychology to understand and improve the health and broader well-being of older adults (usually defined as those over 65 years old). It is the ability to adapt positively to and make the best of the experiences of aging, including maintaining well-being in the face of age-related events and transitions (such as multiple chronic illnesses and disabilities, sensory decline, caregiving duties, and bereavement). The term positive aging developed out of dissatisfaction with the term successful aging, which (at least initially) required the absence of both chronic illnesses and cognitive decline. Many older adults describe themselves as aging successfully despite having chronic illnesses and functional decline, and their own definitions of successful aging include not merely health, but also activity, happiness and contentment, relationships, and independence.
Positive aging thus involves keeping as healthy as possible, while maintaining positive attitudes, and continuing to engage socially and meaningfully in life despite the challenges of aging. As an extension of positive psychology, positive aging emphasizes strengths acquired throughout the life span which help older adults optimize their well-being while dealing with the transitions occurring in later life (Hill and Smith 2015).
Positive aging thus involves keeping as healthy as possible, while maintaining positive attitudes, and continuing to engage socially and meaningfully in life despite the challenges of aging. As an extension of positive psychology, positive aging emphasizes strengths acquired throughout the life span which help older adults optimize their well-being while dealing with the transitions occurring in later life (Hill and Smith 2015).