Successful Aging pada Lanjut Usia di Yayasan Guna Budi Bakti Medan

Abstract

The elderly face various challenges during the aging process, characterized by declines in physical, psychological, and social conditions. Despite these setbacks, they are still capable of experiencing successful aging. The achievement of successful aging is influenced by several factors, one of which is residential status. Elderly individuals living in nursing homes are often perceived as unable to achieve successful aging due to internal pressures of loneliness and stress from being away from their families. This study aims to explore the achievement of successful aging for the elderly at Yayasan Guna Budi Bakti Medan. A qualitative method was employed, with data collection through interviews, observations, and documentation. Informants were selected using purposive sampling. The results indicate that the achievement of successful aging for the elderly at Yayasan Guna Budi Bakti Medan includes: (a) functional well, with optimal physical, cognitive, and psychological functioning, active participation in physical activities, effective emotion management, optimal memory, and the use of leisure time to enhance cognitive functions; (b) psychological well-being, encompassing acceptance of aging, gratitude, positive relationships, self-control, adaptation to new environments, and personal growth in spiritual and physical aspects; (c) selection, optimization, and compensation, where the elderly selectively choose important activities, optimize and compensate for limitations through enjoyable activities; and (d) primary and secondary control, with the elderly's awareness to control their environment according to their needs and focus on personal value growth for emotional regulation.