Successful aging according to Meredith Troutman-Jordan: presentation of the theory and its applications in healthcare

Global population aging is the greatest challenge of the twenty-first century. It is associated with the loss of functional autonomy, the onset of chronic diseases, and the decline of certain neurocognitive functions. The theory of successful aging, developed by Troutman-Jordan, a nurse, proposes a holistic approach to describing and promoting the well-being of older adults. By focusing on the combination of physical, psychological, and social factors, this theory seeks to define the conditions under which aging can be considered “successful”, rather than simply defined by the absence of diseases or functional deficits. This article explores the origins of the theory, its assumptions, and key concepts. By synthesizing Troutman-Jordan’s contributions to the understanding of successful aging, it highlights the importance of considering gerotranscendence and the perception of the older adult as essential components of the aging process. The article will conclude by presenting a clinical case study that demonstrates the practical application of the successful aging theory.