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In addition to successful aging, concepts such as productive aging (the ability to contribute directly and indirectly to society in older age) and healthy aging (the ability to remain physically and mentally fit) have been identified. Active aging has been identified as well. It refers to continuing participation in social, economic, cultural, spiritual, and civic affairs, not just being physically or economically active. This type of aging encompasses individuals who have retired as well as those who are frail, disabled, or in need of care, and it takes place within a broader social context of friends, family, neighbors, associates, and the workplace. Active aging recognizes principles of independence, participation, dignity, care, and self-fulfillment. A life course approach to active aging recognizes older people not as a homogeneous group, but as individuals who, collectively, are as diverse as younger members of a society (Kinsella & Phillips, 2005).

A sense of being productive appears to be a benchmark of healthy aging as well. Healthy men and women are three times more likely than those with physical or mental health problems to be engaged in paid work or volunteer activities. However, even people with physical limitations often manage, with some creativity, to engage in activities that keep them in touch with the world. Productive engagement with others, in whatever form it takes, is linked to a sense of mastery or personal self-efficacy. A “can-do” attitude contributes enormously to well-being.