Older Australians are redefining the notion of ‘super-ageing,’ moving beyond the traditional emphasis on cognitive prowess and highlighting factors such as positivity, independence, physical activity and community engagement. This perspective emerges from new research led by geriatrician Dr Alice Powell at UNSW’s Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA).
The study, published in Activities, Adaptation & Aging, involved 39 Australians aged 65 to 101 who live independently and have no cognitive symptoms or dementia diagnoses. Researchers explored participants’ views on what ‘super-ageing’ really means and discovered that older adults prioritise a broad range of elements—well beyond cognitive abilities.
“Our aim was to explore their views on ‘super-ageing’, what this constitutes and what components are important,” said Dr Powell. “We looked at what factors made super-ageing possible, how it might be measured and what associated outcomes were meaningful.”
Up until now, ‘super-agers’ have generally been defined in research as older people with exceptional cognitive abilities. While the participants acknowledged that cognition is vital, they also highlighted independence, social engagement, and attitude as key to thriving in later life. Many described ‘super-ageing’ as keeping busy, contributing to the community, and staying motivated to seek new experiences.
“With no current gold standard definition, it is difficult to determine which components are key and whether it is even something older people strive for,” said Dr Powell. “There is no consensus at what age super-ageing starts or what specific abilities constitute super-ageing. Asking older adults for their views provides meaningful information in the quest to define super-ageing.”
In approximate order of importance, participants ranked attitude, cognitive or mental abilities, physical abilities, social or community engagement, health, and longevity as central to the concept. A positive attitude, in particular, was viewed as a strong driver of one’s capacity to remain active and adapt to life’s challenges.
“Super-ageing is not something that can be achieved or maintained by all older individuals but a better understanding of the characteristics of such an exceptional group may provide clues as to how individuals and societies age successfully,” said Dr Powell.
Researchers say future investigations may look more closely at physical and social ‘super-ageing’ and how these elements interact with high-level cognitive function. They also plan to explore how personal outlooks, or attitudes, influence consistent engagement in meaningful activities.
“Our participants’ identification of individual attitudes as modifiable drivers of activity and behaviour and the importance of continued engagement within the community also warrant further investigation,” said Dr Powell.
Related: Global analysis reveals how nations are adapting to ageing populations
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
