Abstract

Healthy aging and prevention efforts for the elderly warrant attention in a world where the average mortality rate continues to increase. The current literature review is an overview of current findings related to healthy aging and recommendations for older adults who are living longer and healthier; as well as facing the physical and psychological challenges that come with extended life. Staying active, eating right, utilizing social and environmental resources, employing coping skills developed across the lifespan, as well as developing new strategies can enhance the quality of life for older adults. Helping professionals from all disciplines who are able to recognize the needs of this growing group, and recognize the resiliency factors inherent in healthy aging, have the best chance of designing and implementing successful preventionand intervention efforts.The purpose of the present literature review is twofold: 1) To systematically review the important factors that affect an individual’s longevity and to raise awareness of the importance of those factors that are within one’s control; and 2) To inform health care providers of prevention efforts important to older adults;encouraging an integration of research and practice to preventative efforts.

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