“Realising my full potential despite the deterioration”: Examining older adults’ experiences and perceptions of healthy ageing

Abstract

Introduction

Fostering healthy ageing among older adults has been identified as a global priority by the World Health Organization and many countries. Individuals ascribe social meanings to the ageing process, and perceptions of ageing well can be influenced by cultural expectations and social contexts. Accordingly, it is necessary to explore how older adults perceive healthy ageing, how they experience and create meanings of the ageing process.

Methods

A descriptive qualitative study was conducted. Purposive sampling was used to recruit older adults who were aged 55 and above, living in the community, who spoke and understood English, and resided in Australia. Twenty participants were recruited for five focus groups that were conducted between April to June 2024. All focus groups were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Findings

All participants resided in Brisbane, Australia. The mean age of participants was 75.4 years, and there was a similar proportion of male and female participants. Five themes were generated: 1) living to full potential, 2) diversity in activities, routines and preferences, 3) participation and preferences in activities and groups, 4) keeping the momentum, and 5) changing body, changing world – adapting to stay involved. Older adults perceived healthy ageing as living life with a sense of purpose and to their full potential. They engaged in a range of activities and routines, categorised into physical, social, arts, unpaid productivity and lifelong learning activities. Most had informal social groups, did not join organised activities and described motivations and strategies to adapt to changes relating to the ageing process.

Conclusion

These findings provide a springboard for the development of targeted intervention programs to support older adults to age well.