Yet, with advancing age, non-pathological cognitive deficits also occur which can hinder one’s ability to age successfully. Physical health and comorbid conditions also affect cognitive health unfortunately, concerns about physical health often eclipse cognitive health until one’s cognitive functioning begins to decline ( Vance, Eagerton, Wright, & Larsen, in press). In their study of 4,077 community-dwelling older adults ( M age = 76), McGuire, Ford, and Ajani (2006) found that poorer cognitive functioning was predictive of poorer instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) such as using the telephone, managing finances, and grocery shopping. Likewise, optimal cognitive functioning is needed to pursue leisure activities, drive an automobile, interact with others, and negotiate one’s environment. Studies show that adults with suboptimal cognitive functioning are more likely to be less adherent to medication schedules and other disease prevention activities (e.g., Hinkin et al., 2004 Reppermund et al., 2010). Clearly, these three components are interrelated and support each other however, optimal cognitive function is essential in maintaining the other two components of successful aging. In Rowe and Kahn’s (1997) definition of successful aging, three components are required: (1) avoiding disease and disability, (2) active engagement in life, and (3) maximizing physical and cognitive function. There are several definitions of successful aging, and all include some aspect of cognitive functioning (e.g., Baltes & Baltes, 1990 Kahana & Kahana, 2001 Pruchno, Wilson-Genderson, & Cartwright, 2010).
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