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

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.

Aging with and into disability: An introductory review with clarification of basic terms

“…For instance, Charlifue (1999) identified spousal support as a significant factor contributing to the ongoing health and well-being of aging individuals with spinal cord injury or disability. Organizations have outlined key domains of successful aging for those with physical disabilities, including autonomy and/or maximized independence, living arrangements, health and well-being, and social connection and meaningful community engagement (Rurka & Riba, 2023).…”