Successful aging and disease prevention

Abstract

Substantial increases in the relative and absolute number of older persons in our society pose a challenge for biology, social and behavioral science, and medicine. Successful aging is multidimensional, encompassing the avoidance of disease and disability, the maintenance of high physical and cognitive function, and sustained engagement in social and productive activities. Research has identified factors predictive of success in these critical domains. Two additional research domains, resilience and wisdom, are suggested, and a national initiative in health promotion and disease prevention is proposed.