Successful aging (Rowe & Kahn)

Successful aging is a framework introduced by John Rowe and Robert Kahn (1987, Science), and elaborated in 1997. It distinguishes 'usual' aging, where outside factors pile on top of your intrinsic decline, from 'successful' aging, where outside factors are neutral or even helpful. It has three pillars. First, a low chance of disease and disease-related disability. Second, high cognitive and physical function. Third, active engagement with life (productive activity plus relationships). The model grew out of the MacArthur Foundation Research Network on Successful Aging, which Rowe and Kahn directed. It has drawn criticism, though. Its disease-free bar is so high that it excludes most older adults who live well with chronic illness, and it has been called culturally narrow. Later frameworks (like the WHO's 'healthy ageing') emphasize adaptation and functional ability over the absence of disease.

Last reviewed: June 22, 2026

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