Sociologists, physiologists, and psychologists have proposed differing models of successful ageing. However, none of
the previous models to describe successful ageing appear appropriate for adaptation to the long and unstable period
of extreme old age. New theories are thus required. Empirical findings relating to successful ageing are applied in the
context of centenarians and the oldest old, and a new framework for understanding successful ageing emphasising
psychological development in old age and age-related differences in functional status is proposed.

Mode of access: Internet.