"Successful

aging is best understood as a process, rather than an outcome a way of

doing and being," says Betsy Sprouse, Ph.D., program manager of the

AARP Foundation. "It is about our ongoing, day-to-day efforts to

live as well as possible during the latter part of our lives. It is not

confined to the most vital and vibrant among us."

While good

health is important to successful aging, it is not the whole story. A

little over more than one-quarter of the group of older adults who participated

in one of the research projects sponsored by the AARP Foundation have

serious, even multiple chronic diseases and conditions but see themselves

as aging well. Conversely, some healthy older adults, as many as one-third

in the study, do not see themselves as aging well.

These results

highlight an important point attitude appears to count in a number of

ways. Older adults who are aging well are characterized by a positive

outlook on life, a willingness to continue to learn and satisfaction with

the way things are. The acceptance of aging is another part of the attitude

equation. Those who have come to terms with the realities and limitations

of aging are able to adjust their perspectives. They can find meaning

and joy in the life they have.

Financial security

is another factor in successful aging. Older adults with inadequate financial

resources or reported problems in their neighborhoods were less likely

to see themselves as aging successfully than those who are financially

secure.

Staying involved

in the outside world is important as well. The research suggested that

those who are aging successfully are widely engaged in a variety of activities

including paid or volunteer work, taking classes or participating in cultural

activities.

Finally, the

study shows that relationships, particularly close family relationships,

matter. A happy marriage or other long-term relationship significantly

increases the chances of successful aging, as does a spouse or partner

who is also aging well. Conversely, having children with financial, health,

relationship or emotional problems is associated with lower chances of

successful aging.

Researchers

looking at the issue of successful aging have identified the following

10 behaviors and attitudes that provide older adults with the best chance

of aging well:

1. Don't smoke

if you still do, it's never too late to quit.

2. If you drink,

drink moderately one alcoholic drink a day doesn't hurt, and may even

reduce your chances of heart disease. But alcohol abuse can lead to disability

and early death.

3. Stay physically

active find something you love to do and do it regularly. Exercise is

associated with a variety of good outcomes, from increased memory to reduced

rates of heart disease, depression and cancer.

4. Eat a balanced

diet limit the fats in your diet and try to include at least five servings

of fruits and vegetables each day.

5. Avoid obesity

being significantly overweight is associated with a variety of bad health

outcomes including heart disease and diabetes.

6. Protect

your vision and hearing your eyes and ears are critical to functions such

as driving and reading. They also help you remain engaged in conversations

and relationships.

7. Get regular

health care and vaccinations you can prevent many problems before they

require more serious treatment.

8. Maintain

a vibrant social network and strong personal relationships it's good for

your health and for how you experience your later years.

9. Stay active

in professional, community or other activities feeling useful is positively

associated with good outcomes as people age.

10. Plan for

your financial well-being having the money to meet your material needs

can increase your chances of successful aging.

To receive

a copy of "Aging Successfully," contact AARP at (800) 424-3410

and request publication #D17507.

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