What do you think of when you hear the term “successful aging”? Personally, I think of my father. At the age of 91, he is out gardening in the backyard, cooking meals, and fixing things in his workshop. Yet for others, it may simply mean enjoying time with family or having hobbies you enjoy. Whatever the case may be, there are many factors to consider when defining successful aging. While we all hope to age successfully, this will look vastly different for different people. Genetics, physiology, and lifestyle will all play a role in how we age. Yet at the same time, we can all help to shape how we age, regardless of our situation.
This Forbes article explains the complex way we go about defining successful aging. Some researchers have attempted to narrow down what it takes to age successfully. Yet when it comes down to it, it will likely remain an open debate. Some claim that only 1 percent can achieve successful aging, while others say nearly 90 percent can. However, neither of these numbers matter. The fact is, no matter how our genetics, diseases, or environment have shaped our aging process, anybody can find meaning and success in late life.
Take Warren Buffet, for example. He is 86 and is a billionaire philanthropist. He is an avid reader, and spends 80 percent of his day enjoying books. Yet he is also an avid Coca-Cola drinker, downing nearly five cans per day. In addition, he states no desire to switch to “water and broccoli”. Is this the model of successful aging? You decide.
Clearly, there are many factors that come into play when defining successful aging. The aging population tends to believe that being productive and mentally fit equates to success and a meaningful life. These are all important, and may be the definition some are looking to achieve. On the other hand, successful aging is not all that matters. Meaningful aging is important to consider as well.
Don’t compare your aging process to others. Ask yourself what you value. Whether you are able to work in your garden like my father, or simply read a book like Warren Buffet. Deciding what matters to you is how you should decide what successful aging looks like in your life.