Predictors of Successful Ageing: A Global Thematic Review (2005–2025)

Abstract

Successful ageing (SA) has emerged as a pivotal focus in the field of gerontology, reflecting the global demographic shift towards ageing populations. This thematic review investigates the predictors of SA from an international perspective spanning the years 2004 to 2024. This study reviewed peer-reviewed literature to identify and synthesize key predictors across psychological, social, lifestyle, and environmental domains. It places particular emphasis on regional variations and cultural nuances that shape these predictors, as well as temporal trends that reveal shifts in research priorities over the past two decades. The findings highlight the complex nature of successful ageing (SA), with resilience, physical health, social engagement, and adaptive lifestyles consistently recognized as significant factors. Additionally, this review examines the interplay between socio-economic conditions and cultural attitudes toward ageing in influencing outcomes. This paper offers a thorough synthesis of global research by identifying gaps in the current literature and providing guidance for future studies. By presenting a holistic perspective on successful aging (SA), this review enhances our understanding of aging across various contexts, thus laying the groundwork for evidence-based interventions and policies aimed at promoting healthy and fulfilling later life stages worldwide. Unlike many earlier reviews that concentrate on specific countries or shorter time frames, this study encompasses a 20-year global perspective (2005–2025). It synthesizes findings from 12 countries and captures regional, cultural, and temporal variations in the predictors of successful aging, resulting in a more comprehensive and inclusive understanding of the subject. While previous studies often focused on physical health, this review broadens the conceptual framework by categorizing findings into three overarching themes: Health and Lifestyle Predictors, Psychosocial Predictors, and Environmental Predictors. It underscores the interconnections among these predictors, addressing a significant gap in prior literature that frequently treated them in isolation

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