This study attempts to identify the dimensions of successful aging perceived by Korean Elderly and to explore the ways of helping them age successfully in the context of Korean culture, especially focusing on the family and close relationships. The f...
This study attempts to identify the dimensions of successful aging perceived by Korean Elderly and to explore the ways of helping them age successfully in the context of Korean culture, especially focusing on the family and close relationships. The findings of the study show that older people evaluate healthy physical and mental functions, close relationships, and psychological balance are significant elements to be achieved in aging successfully. Interestingly, they tend to be satisfied with the moderate level of success rather than pursuing the optimal level of success.
The results of in-depth interview suggest that there is an ideal type of successful aging shared by the subjects of this study, which reflects the life values, specific to historical and cultural context in Korean society. The most important value is economic security, and they respect those who have achieved the economic success through their strong will and sincerity. Another important value is family, especially children, and they recognize that supports from family members have been the significant resources to help them overcome various life difficulties.
The prototype models of successful aging are suggested based the research findings.