Subjective Model of Successful Aging and Its Determinants - Analysis of a Cross-Sectional Study

Background : Due to the ongoing aging process in many societies, Successful Aging - SA is of paramount importance both individually and socially. The objective criteria for SA, as formulated by Rowe and Kahn, are the subject of critical debate. One criticism is the lack of a subjective assessment of SA by individuals. The aim was to examine SA and its determinants from the perspective of older adults. Methods : The study included 2,964 individuals aged 60-103 years (mean 70.44;SD=7.09) – 1,974 women (66.60%) and 990 men (33.40%). The study area was southern Poland. The research tool was a questionnaire consisting of a metric section and a proprietary tool – the Successful Aging Index - SAI. Additionally, the study utilized questionnaires assessing health-related quality of life – the SF-12, physical activity – the PAQE, and anxiety and depression – the HADS. Results : SAI was higher in women than in men. There was no correlation between age and the domains or the overall SAI. Sociodemographic variables: education, size of residence, marital status, household management, presence of chronic disease, and having children differentiated SAI and its domains: p<0.0001. Regression results showed that physical and mental health components, education level, and household size positively influenced SAI levels. Conclusions : Successful aging should be treated as a linear variable. Physical and mental health are the foundations of SA, but external factors can significantly moderate them. Individual agency, along with psychosocial factors, significantly influence SA.