12 pages, excluding title page and references Format: Double spaced, 12-point font, Arial Printing: 8.5”x11” paper Margins: 1 inch all around Copies: 1 hard copy (2-sided is okay) Grade: 30% Topic: Successful/Healthy/Active Aging -Describe the concept of successful aging, including: -Definition(s) -Models -Determinants or indicators – Describe/explain either Sample Sources for Framework: -WHO’s framework of active aging, OR -Rowe and Kahn’s model of successful aging Grading: 80% content: -Application of concepts from lectures and readings -Ability to synthesize and incorporate course ideas -Ability to construct a coherent, well informed argument based on readings or personal view-points 20% structure: -organization and style, including spelling and grammar References: – American Psychological Association (APA) reference style Include a minimum of SIX references, including at least THREE peer reviewed journals and articles from reading assignments or others
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Successful aging refers to the process of maintaining physical, mental, and social well-being as one grows older. There are several definitions and models of successful aging that have been proposed by researchers and policymakers.
One definition of successful aging is provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), which defines it as “the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables well-being in older age.” According to the WHO, successful aging is characterized by a number of factors, including:
Physical health: The ability to maintain good physical health and avoid or manage chronic diseases
Mental health: The ability to maintain good mental health and avoid or manage mental health conditions
Social connections: The ability to maintain strong social connections and participate in social activities
Independence: The ability to live independently and carry out daily activities without Helpance
Engagement: The ability to continue learning and participating in activities that are meaningful and enjoyable
The WHO’s framework of active aging is based on the idea that aging is not a passive process, but rather an active one that is shaped by the interactions between individuals and their environments. According to this framework, successful aging is achieved when individuals are able to maintain or improve their functional ability and participate in social, economic, cultural, and civic life.
Another model of successful aging is Rowe and Kahn’s model, which defines successful aging as “the avoidance of disease and disability, the maintenance of high physical and cognitive function, and engagement in social and productive activities.” According to this model, there are three main determinants of successful aging:
Biological factors: Genetic factors that influence an individual’s risk of developing chronic diseases and disabilities
Behavioral factors: Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and smoking, that can impact an individual’s risk of developing chronic diseases and disabilities
Social and environmental factors: Factors such as social support, education, and access to healthcare that can impact an individual’s ability to maintain good physical and mental health.
Both the WHO’s framework of active aging and Rowe and Kahn’s model of successful aging highlight the importance of maintaining good physical and mental health, engaging in social and productive activities, and addressing the social and environmental factors that can impact aging. They also emphasize the importance of taking a holistic approach to aging, recognizing that successful aging is not just about the absence of disease or disability, but also about maintaining overall well-being and participation in society.
