title: Perceptions of Longevity and Successful Aging in Very Old Adults.
abstract: We examined perceptions of longevity and successful aging in young-old (60 to 74 years), old-old (75 to 89 years), and oldest-old (90 + years) adults drawn from theLouisiana Healthy Aging Study(LHAS). Participants' responses to three open-ended questions that assessed their attributions for longevity, what they look forward to, and advice for younger persons today were compared. Content analyses yielded three emergent themes: maintaining physical, mental, and relational well-being; living a healthy life; and living a faithful life. Implications of these findings for current views on successful aging and insights for promoting a long and healthy life are considered.
authors.affiliation: Louisiana State University.
authors.forename: Katie E
authors.initials: KE
authors.lastname: Cherry
authors.affiliation: Louisiana State University.
authors.forename: Loren D
authors.initials: LD
authors.lastname: Marks
authors.affiliation: Louisiana State University.
authors.forename: Tim
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Benedetto
authors.affiliation: Louisiana State University.
authors.forename: Marisa C
authors.initials: MC
authors.lastname: Sullivan
authors.affiliation: Louisiana State University.
authors.forename: Alyse
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Barker