30 The Courier sun • welnes • march 19, 2015 for breaking news visit www.couriersun.com wellness s Research and successful aging The McArthur Study is a coherent set of dozens of individual research projects that are rooted in the concept of successful aging (i.e.: the many factors that permit individuals to continue to function effectively, both physically and mentally into old age). The study emphasizes the positive aspects of aging which had been long overlooked. The goal of the study was to move beyond the limited view of chronological age and to clarify and even enhance people’s ability to function in later life. In sum, the McArthur researchers were seeking to understand why one octogenarian (80+) can still perform on cross-country skis while another individual of similar age must resign his life to a wheelchair. The first step in their study was to break out of the disease framework and redefine what constitutes successful aging. They then looked at life expectancy which included a reduction in infant mortality in the 19th and early 20th centuries. They also discovered a decrease in death rates among middle aged and older people. This was due to two key factors: people (young and old) were taking better care of themselves, and science and medicine were taking better care of people (i.e.: control of chronic disorders such as hypertension, kidney disease, etc.), and the dramatic technological advances in the management of heart disease. Some of the evolving technology was to be found with those complex medical devices that were employed during coronary angiography and angioplasty procedures and, of course, an emphasis on and advocacy for healthier lifestyles for the older person. As a result of these advances, the category of old-old (those 85+) now represents the fastest growing segment of our aging population. A by-product of this new longevity is a remarkable increase in the number of individuals turning 100. While centenarians (100+) were rare in 1900, their numbers swelled to 30,000 by 1982 and as of the 2000 U.S. Census, it was reported that some 50,000 Americans are reaching the age of 100. It is also projected that by 2050 or sooner, that number may double. One last statistic: centenarians are not necessarily in poor health but they still incur more health problems than those in their 80s. In closing, here are two timely definitions we should all embrace regarding successful aging: it is a means to continue functioning at the highest possible level within the context of inevitable limitations that growing older places upon us, and it is a means of getting the best out of what is possible for as long as possible (physically, cognitively, socially and psychologically). Sheldon Ornstein Ed.D, RN Dr. Sheldon Ornstein is a registered professional nurse with a doctoral degree in Nursing Organization. He has specialized in the care of older adults and has published many articles on the subject. He has done post-graduate work in gerontology and has taught at several universities. In 2013, he was inducted into the Nursing Hall of Fame at Teachers College, Columbia University.
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