Multiple trajectories of successful aging of older and younger cohorts

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to apply group-based trajectory analysis to identify multiple successful aging trajectories by multiple indicators and to examine the factors related to successful aging among the elderly population in Taiwan.

Design and methods: Nation-representative longitudinal data collected from 1993 to 2007 and consisting of 2 cohorts were used, and the trajectories of the following 6 successful aging indicators were analyzed: chronic diseases, physical function difficulties, depressive symptoms, social support, social participation, and economic satisfaction.

Results: Members of the cohorts fell into 4 groups: successful aging, usual aging (the older cohort)/insecure aging (the younger cohort), health declining, and care demanding. Successful aging trajectories reflected differences in self-rated health and life satisfaction.

Implications: This study provides empirical findings of the heterogeneity of successful aging trajectories in multidimensional indicators.