Bryant, L.L., Corbett, K.K., & Kutner, J.S. (2001). In their own words: A model of healthy aging. [see comment]). Social Sciece & Medicine, 52 (7), 927-941.

Summary:

• In this study, the researchers asked older people what helps keep them healthy.
• There were 22 participants in this study, and they were interviewed by the research team.
• Interview questions were related to the following topics: "perceptions of health, well-being valued abilities, activities, relationships, social support, control, sense of coherence, and personal outlook."
• Results:
• Health meant "going and doing something meaningful."
• "Something worthwhile to do"
• "Balance between abilities and challenges"
• "Appropriate external resources"
• "Personal attitudinal characteristics"
• It is important to determine what healthy aging means to each person rather than only deciding what healthy aging means based upon "medical approaches."

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