Objective: Self-perceptions of aging (SPA) played a critical role in shaping the psychological and functional outcomes in later life. Positive SPA has been associated with enhanced psychological well-being (PWB) and successful aging (SA), yet empirical evidence from Indian contexts remains limited. This study aimed to examine the relationship between various dimensions of SPA (positive and negative) and their associations with PWB and SA among older Indian adults (OIAs).
Methods- Correlational survey research was conducted with 297 OIAs (age= 60 & above) drawn from Patna, Bihar using stratified random sampling technique. Brief Aging Perception questionnaire, Successful Aging Scale and available Hindi-version of PERMA- Profiler were used to assess SPA, SA and PWB respectively. Statistical tools of pearson product moment correlation and stepwise linear regression analysis were used to test the hypotheses.
Results : Dimensions of SPA except for the 'timeline chronic' was significantly positively associated with PWB and SA. Negative SPA and emotional representations also demonstrated notable associations, suggesting the multifaceted and complex nature of SPA in influencing aging outcomes. Among these, 'consequences positive' emerged as a significant predictor of both PWB and SA, highlighting its central role in shaping internalisation of aging outcomes for OIAs. Other dimensions of SPA were also found to hold predictive power for PWB and SA.
Conclusion & Implications- Findings underscored the importance of promoting positive SPA to enhance PWB while promoting SA in OIAs. These findings have practical relevance for geriatric mental health services and community-based aging interventions in India. These findings supported global efforts under Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.