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A life span model of successful aging
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15620, USA.
The American Psychologist
|July 1, 1996
Summary
This study introduces a new model for successful aging, emphasizing primary control throughout life. It integrates motivational processes and control strategies like selection and compensation for optimal development and maintenance.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Developmental Psychology
- Lifespan Development
Background:
- Existing models of successful aging lack integration of life course context and motivational processes.
- Successful aging definitions vary, often overlooking normative and nonnormative pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a comprehensive model of successful aging within the life course framework.
- To integrate motivational processes and control strategies into aging theories.
- To account for both normative and exceptional aging trajectories.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual model development.
- Integration of existing theories on development, control, and motivation.
- Analysis of selection and compensation processes in aging.
Main Results:
- Successful aging is defined as the development and maintenance of primary control across the lifespan.
- Control-related processes, including selection and compensation, are key mechanisms.
- Selection optimizes goal choices considering trade-offs, while compensation addresses failures.
Conclusions:
- The proposed model offers a broader perspective on successful aging by incorporating life course development and motivational factors.
- Primary control is central to successful aging, achieved through adaptive selection and compensation strategies.
- This framework advances the understanding of aging by integrating diverse theoretical perspectives.