I want to put forth the aspect of holarchy as it relates to my gerontological discussion. First, we have one who represents a person along the course of becoming a successful ager. There are many aspects to be considered as one is moving through a life course, but I have narrowed them down to six which may lead one to the perception that he or she has successfully aged.
These aspects are as follows: Religion/Spirituality, Social Connectivity, Education, Coping Strategies, Physical Activity/Functionality, and Financial Resources.
Imagine an organizational chart where One is centrally located and the six aspects of successful aging are radially connected to one. This may demonstrate the interrelatedness of each aspect to one. There is a constant push-pull between these aspects and one; however, for one to enjoy the perception of successfully aging he or she must capably navigate the interaction of each of these aspects throughout his or her life.
More later.
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4 comments:
I'm curious Lou, is it possible to complete the process of aging sucessfully before the physical aging process is complete?
In other words, if you have gained that sense of self-satisfaction when you're middle aged does that mean that you've sucessfully aged?
Perhaps it's just me but I'm perfectly happy with the way my life has turned out. I'm completely satisfied with my accomplishments and feel very, very fortunate. In my view I've sucessfully aged even though I'm not a member of the old, old cohort.
Congratulations Lou:
I knew you would be very successful. I loved Trina's comments. I am very happy that I completed a life long goal of an MS degree, even if it took me until the age of 62. I look forward to the new challenges of my life, and also feel very fortunate.
Good luck Lou in all of your endeavors.
Trina, to successfully age certainly does not mean one must be an old person for this realization to manifest itself. As you say, you feel you have already successfully aged. But what matters is not just the here and now. The future also has great bearing and potential for where we are today. Your awareness of successfully aging is not that you have successfully aged, but in fact your tenacity to continue with your life aspects (your holarchy) will keep the fire buring within you.
Successful aging is a bit like evolution on a small time scale (a normal life span). The ability to cope with life and adjust as necessary now may help assure your continued perception of being a successful ager. I think this matters significantly because decades from now, perhaps when you do consider yourself old, you will also retain the perception of high life satisfaction.
Thank you, Marlene.
I hope to see you soon and I look forward to your comments on this blog regularly :-)
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