Abstract
BACKGROUND: Aesthetic treatments are associated with positive psychological and psychosocial outcomes, but most data are from adults <60 years. As the global population ages, there is an opportunity to better understand perceptions about aging among older adults and whether engaging with aesthetic medicine influences these perceptions. OBJECTIVES: This global survey sought to understand the psychology of aging among older adults with varying relationships to aesthetic medicine. METHODS: This online survey (July-September 2022) queried adults (50-80 years) in 8 countries. Respondents were divided into 3 groups: those that had ever received aesthetic treatments (aesthetics receivers); those naive to aesthetic medicine but considering (naive considerers); and those naive and not considering (naive non-considerers). Respondents were queried about perceptions and expectations of aging and perceptions of aesthetic treatments. RESULTS: Among 7588 total respondents, 39.8% were aesthetic receivers, 28.7% were naive considerers, and 31.5% were naive non-considerers. Overall, satisfaction with psychological self-perceptions (eg, level of self-confidence) was high (∼80%) regardless of respondents' engagement with aesthetic medicine. Naive non-considerers had the most positive view on aging, but there was strong agreement across all groups that aging was associated with benefits (eg, more time for hobbies/leisure) and potential challenges (eg, changes in mobility, losing independence). Most respondents (83%), regardless of their relationship with aesthetic medicine, agreed that aesthetic treatments had emotional benefits (eg, feeling like the best version of oneself). CONCLUSIONS: The data from this multi-country survey of older adults gives key insights into perceptions of aging and aesthetic medicine among a previously underrepresented population. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 5: (Therapeutic).