The factors that improve an active aging process: an investigation in northern Italy

Abstract

The recent demographically change, characterized by lengthening of the
average life and consequently the gradual aging of the population, has led
to a growing interest regarding the role and the position taken by elder in
today’s society. This interest has directed numerous studies aimed at identifying
a number of factors that enable the maintenance of a state of wellbeing
and development of the potential of each individual.
In this direction we conducted a research with the aim to identify the factors
for a process of active aging. Such research has leading 32 subjects,
who underwent an interview and a cognitive test (MMSE). The results
showed the existence of three factors: autonomy and ability to make decisions,
the ability to remain active and committed, and the quality of the relationships
and the support of others.