Aging Well/Successful Aging

This chapter focuses on adult development and aging, successful aging, and the individual practices that contribute to aging well. Several theories of adult development have been postulated. Counselors can use these theories to obtain insight or guidance in the counseling process. There are many perspectives about what constitutes successful aging. Some of these perspectives include: having good health, a strong body, and high levels of physical functioning, vigor, and activity; and being able to adjust to, cope with, and thrive during multiple life events. Resilience is important to successful aging, and wisdom is often associated with successful aging. Regular exercise of all types is important in maintaining and improving physical health and vigor as well as overall mental health. Some of the practices that contribute to a healthy brain include physical exercise, social interaction and a healthy diet. Religion and spirituality are also considered to be important to older people.