Successful aging (Rowe & Kahn)

Successful aging is a gerontological framework introduced by John Rowe and Robert Kahn (1987, Science) and elaborated in 1997 (The Gerontologist), distinguishing usual aging - where extrinsic factors compound intrinsic decline - from successful aging, where extrinsic factors are neutral or beneficial. The three pillars are: (1) low probability of disease and disease-related disability, (2) high cognitive and physical functional capacity, and (3) active engagement with life (productive activity plus interpersonal relations). The MacArthur Foundation Research Network on Successful Aging — which Rowe and Kahn directed — provided the empirical basis from which the model was developed. It has been criticised for setting a high disease-free bar that excludes most older adults living well with chronic illness, and for cultural narrowness; later frameworks (e.g., WHO healthy ageing) emphasise adaptation and functional ability over disease absence.