Psychological factors contributing to active aging in Sardinia

The demands associated with rapid ageing populations are a significant concern in many countries. An aim central to many sociopolitical strategies is the promotion of successful ageing. Knowledge of the basis of successful ageing is advancing but many issues remain to be resolved not least because of a variety of challenges. One potentially important approach for enhancing successful ageing is through the study of people possessing exceptional longevity, health and happiness. One such population exists in the Ogliastra region of Sardinia. We have recently undertaken a series of studies examining links between various psychosocial factors and subjective well-being, the most common single criterion of successful ageing. In this presentation we will discuss some of the most salient findings from this investigation