What Does It Mean to Age Successfully?

By Marilyn Walsh

When people talk about successful aging, there is a stereotypical image of the smiling 75 year old striding along a beach. The imagery suggests that successful aging is about physical health. The reality is, that by the time people are 65 years old, more than 50 percent require some sort of assistance or assistive device to support their acts of daily living. That number increases as we age, but it is not a good indicator of ‘successful aging.’

As Executive Director of Providence Point, Pittsburgh’s Life Plan Community focused on the well-being of its residents, Bob Kocent understands why health industry experts say successful aging is a multidimensional process.

“Our resident population is a broad spectrum of people who move here to find a fulfilling, active lifestyle. But, that means different things to different people. Some may never touch foot in our fitness center but take advantage of our drama club and theater outings. Others enjoy bocce, swimming, or possibly bridge club. Their individual perspective on aging is as individual as they are. Aging successfully lies in being able to do the things that make them happy and feel fulfilled.”

Eating healthy, getting sleep and exercise is important, but real aging and doing it well is more complex than that. Aging successfully means that we take advantage of the tools and medical advances available to us so that we can stay healthier longer. Research suggests that, despite some physical decline, older people regard themselves as happy and well when their mental, spiritual and social needs are being met. The research also suggests that people living in senior communities like Providence Point may be more likely to compress morbidity and physical disability into fewer years later in life because they have better access to an active, social, wellness-focused lifestyle. Baptist Senior Family focuses on six dimensions of wellness at both of its South Hills senior living communities and supports residents in their quest to age successfully with a multifaceted approach to wellness. Whether it is through Saturday morning cornhole, weekly art classes, evening lectures, or its quality dining options, person-centered wellness is a key component of life at Baptist Senior Family communities.

For information about Providence Point or Baptist Homes, call 412-489-3560.