title: A positive aging framework for guiding geropsychology interventions.
abstract: This article characterizes the human aging process from the perspectives of normal, pathological, usual, successful, and positive aging. Positive aging is described based on four characteristics: the mobilizing of latent resources, psychological flexibility, an affirmative decision-making style, and the propensity to generate an optimistic response to stressors inherent in age-related decline. A positive aging strategy framework is proposed, inclusive of recent developments in intervention research employing gratitude, forgiveness, and altruism to preserve subjective well-being. The role of positive aging strategies in conjunction with behavioral intervention approaches to promote well-being in one's later years is recommended for addressing the complex needs of our graying population.
authors.affiliation: Educational Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-9255, USA. bhill@ed.utah.edu
authors.forename: Robert D
authors.initials: RD
authors.lastname: Hill
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology*; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D006299:Health Services for the Aged; D006801:Humans; D008960:Models, Psychological