Malaysia is projected to become an ageing nation by 2030, yet most active ageing initiatives remain concentrated on older adults, with limited emphasis on midlife as a critical developmental stage. This study examines the influence of resilience on perceived successful ageing and the mediating role of ageing adaptation among middle-aged civil servants. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 403 civil servants aged 41–59 in Putrajaya. Guided by the Selective Optimization with Compensation (SOC) framework, measures included individual and environmental resilience, ageing adaptation (psychosocial loss, physical change, and psychological growth), and perceived successful ageing. Data were analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicate that individual resilience significantly predicted both ageing adaptation and perceived successful ageing. Ageing adaptation, particularly the psychological growth dimension, emerged as a significant mediator in the resilience–successful ageing relationship. In contrast, environmental resilience demonstrated minimal direct or mediated effects. These results suggest that the psychological foundations of successful ageing are established prior to old age, with resilient individuals demonstrating stronger adaptive capacities and more positive ageing perceptions. The study highlights the importance of embedding resilience-building and adaptive ageing strategies within workplace health promotion and national ageing policies to better prepare Malaysia’s midlife workforce for successful ageing trajectories.

Authors:
Yeshulavani Rajeswaran, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia
Mohammad Mujaheed Hassan, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia
Azlina Mohd Khir, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia
Asmidawati Ashari, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia

About the Presenter(s)
Yeshulavani Rajeswaran is a PhD candidate at Universiti Putra Malaysia. Her interests include social gerontology, resilience, and successful ageing. Her current research examines ageing adaptation and successful ageing among middle-aged civil servant

See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule

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