Personality Traits and Executive Functioning as Predictors of Successful Ageing

By : Tarika Sandhu, Ameera Chauhan

Page No: 269-280

Abstract:
The present study explores the predictive roles of personality traits and executive functioning in successful ageing among older adults. With a rising elderly population, understanding the psychological and cognitive contributors to ageing well is essential. A sample of 71 participants aged 60–75 years was assessed using standardised measures: the NEO Five Factor Inventory-III for personality traits, the Adult Executive Functioning Inventory (ADEXI) for executive functioning, and the Successful Ageing Inventory (SAI). Results indicated that higher levels of executive functioning, particularly working memory and inhibition control, significantly predicted successful ageing outcomes. Among personality traits, conscientiousness, agreeableness, and extraversion positively correlated with successful ageing, while neuroticism showed a negative correlation. Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that executive functioning alone explained 19 per cent of the variance in successful ageing. The addition of agreeableness and conscientiousness increased the explained variance to 30 per cent. These findings emphasise the importance of both cognitive abilities and personality traits in the ageing process. This research highlights the potential for targeted interventions to support healthy and successful ageing trajectories in India’s ageing population.

Authors
Tarika Sandhu: Professor of Psychology, Department of Psychology, Punjabi University Patiala, Punjab,
Ameera Chauhan: Research Scholar, Department of Psychology, Punjabi University Patiala, Punjab, 
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/JPR.2025.20.02.10