Organizations’ Perspectives on Successful Aging with Long-Term Physical Disability

Marissa M. Rurka () and Melissa L. Riba
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Marissa M. Rurka: Center for Health and Research Transformation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
Melissa L. Riba: Center for Health and Research Transformation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA

Disabilities, 2023, vol. 3, issue 2, 1-18

Abstract: In recent decades, there has been considerable discussion surrounding what it means to age successfully, and what supports, services, and programs are needed to facilitate successful aging. Rehabilitation scholars advocate for models of successful aging that take into account the unique needs and priorities of those aging with long-term physical disability. The aim of this study is to explore how organizations that serve those with physical disability define successful aging for this population, and whether their understanding of successful aging is consistent with the needs and priorities identified by those aging with physical disability. To do so, we analyze qualitative data from a national online survey of disability organizations (N = 106 organizations). Organizations described the following domains of successful aging for those with physical disability: (a) autonomy and/or maximized independence; (b) living arrangement; (c) health and well-being; and (d) social connection and meaningful community engagement. Overall, organizations’ understandings of successful aging are consistent with the priorities identified by those aging with long-term physical disability. We discuss strategies that organizations can adopt to ensure that the programs and services that they offer facilitate these elements of successful aging.

Keywords: physical disability; successful aging; older adults; qualitative; organization supports (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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