Reframing later life: The ThriveSpan framework for ages 60-80
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.20856/jnicec.5617Keywords:
ageing; ThriveSpan; later life; life stage theory; lifespan development; gerontologyAbstract
Increased longevity has reshaped later life, yet many psychological and career development models continue to reflect assumptions formed in earlier demographic contexts. In particular, the period between approximately 60 and 80 remains under theorised, often compressed into narratives of decline, disengagement, or retirement transition. This paper reviews selected life-stage and ageing theories and examines their limitations in relation to contemporary later life. Drawing on this analysis, alongside empirical research on meaning and sustained career psychology practice, the paper introduces ThriveSpan, an integrative, meaning-centred framework designed to support wellbeing, identity, and intentional living in the 60–80 life phase.
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