The
achievement of successful aging for
the individual approaching and/or transitioning
into seniority, (60 and above according to most
references, 65 and above in all references)
is measured on a continuum and not measured
by having arrived at 
one
life spot, or having accomp-lished or accumulated
a certain level or amount of “things”.
Achieving
successful aging is actually a measure of movement
in a positive direction along a continuum of
certain criteria; and the further along/up the
continuum one is at any given point in time
then the more likely it is that the person and
others will perceive him/her to be achieving
successful aging.
Criteria
used to measure positive movement on the “achieving
successful aging” continuum, are the following:
-
Obtaining and maintaining lowered risk for
chronic disease and related disability, and
where disease and/or disability exist to manage
it effectively in order to minimize impact
function and engagement in life.
- Obtaining
and maintaining high physical and mental function,
including maximizing positive spirituality.
- Becoming
and remaining fully engaged in life by maximizing
productivity that is characterized by employment,
full or part-time, and/or volunteer activity
that to the degree possible/desired related
to skill and experience, and social connectedness
where one gives and receives personal value.
For
facts on aging, click
here.
For
information on Trident United Way's investments
in Achieving Successful Aging, click
here.
For
additional Senior Resources, click
here
A
new study by Trident United Way and the Riley
Institute at the College of Charleston has found
that seniors have an annual economic impact
of nearly $2 billion, as much as MUSC and the
College of Charleston combined.
It
also found that seniors in the Lowcountry volunteer
in the community at twice the usual rate.
Read
the results. (6Mb
PDF Download)
