Seniors' perceptions of aging well: Implications for brain health promotion

Recent research suggests that physical activity, a healthy diet, and social engagement may help to reduce risks of cognitive decline and dementia, and generally maintain brain health. The evidence for physical activity is particularly strong. In response, the Healthy Aging Research Network collaborated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to conduct formative research to investigate seniors' attitudes about healthy aging, perceptions of lifestyle behaviors associated with brain health, and ideas for health promotion interventions. We report results of 9 focus groups conducted in South Carolina with older persons (77.4% ≥65 years), specific to a question that asked respondents to describe someone who is aging well. Five groups were with African Americans and four with whites. Most (85%) participants were women and 57% had a high school education or less. Trained moderators used a 9-item interview guide and audio taped the groups. Tapes were transcribed and imported into Atlas.ti for coding and analysis. Thematic comparisons indicate that seniors generally felt the components of aging well included: social activity, a strong spiritual life, not taking medications, and traveling. African Americans said successful aging meant being cognitively intact, physically mobile, independent, and free from health problems. Whites described aging well in terms of living a long time, staying physically active, maintaining a positive outlook, and having good genes. The fact that African Americans did not commonly associate physical activity with aging well suggests that tailored messages for promoting brain health to this population group should motivate the importance of physical activity.