The purpose of this phenomenological study was to uncover ways in which the oldest old living in a Scottish community view the experience of aging. The research was guided by Parse's theory and followed the van Kaam method to elicit a structural definition of the meaning of aging, as described by the oldest old. Through the processes of intuiting, analyzing, and describing, it was found that the experience of aging is intensifying engagements as transfigurations signify maturity tempering the unavoidable with buoyant serenity. Findings are discussed in light of meaning specified in other explorations of the aging experience. Conceptual expansion enhances understanding for practice and further research.

In the United States and in many other parts of the world, the fastest growing age group is 80 years and over. It is precisely in this oldest old age cohort that very little is known about the experience of health. The purpose of this study was to investigate the lived experience of health for the oldest old within the community through the use of the phenomenological method. While there has been some research on the personal experience of health, the meaning of these experiences has not been studied in the oldest old, community dwelling elderly. Findings reveal that for this age group, health is an abiding vitality emanating through moments of rhapsodic reverie in generating fulfillment. There are many implications for further research and practice based on the meaning of health as described by the oldest old.

No abstract