According to Rowe (1998), factors contributing to successful aging are the individual’s lifestyles choices, their innate personality in how they approach life, and a positive attitude build in resilience. Consider resiliency, by definition—quality of life does not always relate to physical illness. When comparing similar socio-demographic factors, those factors relating to positive outcomes for resiliency were the ability to recognize the people who could be relied upon. Further, those individuals stating greater autonomy and flexibility were notable in those positive outcomes. Resilient individuals also talk about their experiences more. Those individuals flourished despite adversity (Hildon, et …show more content…
Using Rowe and Kahn’s model an enhanced model of successful aging was developed, it suggests that positive spirituality when included in health promotion was well received by older adults. According to Crowther et al. (2002), “The proposed enhancement of Rowe and Kahn’s model will help health professionals, religious organizations, and governmental agencies work collaboratively to promote wellness among older adults” (p. 613). Religion and spirituality are terms often confused (Table 1). Through a relationship with something, or someone, higher, outside of the individual, a positive, larger, world transcends the activities of daily living and barriers to successful aging. Additionally, positive spirituality, helps with reducing stress, adds purpose and meaning to individuals facing illness. A positive spiritual practice suggests that helplessness and loss of control are reduced when faced with illness. Notably, the healthcare provider must respect the individual’s beliefs and allow them to take the lead. Positive spirituality research has only been briefly reviewed and is still in the early …show more content…
At 76 she still maintains her own home, enjoys her “just for fun” part-time work at a local fitness facility where she also stays fit and helps others with their fitness goals and weight loss progress. She has continued with her volunteerism and has increases her hours as time allows. Children, and adults, love her cookies too. Her disease management is kept manageable through a network of physicians and resources offered through Medicaid. She oftentimes mentions we have good genes, yet when looking at her sister and brother, seven years younger, there aging is not near the same level of success and certainly would not be considered