Multidimensional Capital and Resilience in Later Life: Insights from Iranian Older Adults

Abstract

Older adults are disproportionately vulnerable to physical, mental, and social health challenges, particularly during times of crisis. Understanding the factors that enhance their resilience is essential for developing supportive interventions. This study aimed to explore perceived contributors to resilience among Iranian older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic, using qualitative methods to capture the depth of lived experience. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 37 older adults. A purposive sampling strategy with maximum variation was employed to ensure a diverse range of participants, followed by theoretical sampling to achieve conceptual saturation. Thematic analysis was used to code and interpret the data. The findings revealed that access to various forms of capital—economic, cultural, spiritual, and familial (filial support)—plays a pivotal role in strengthening resilience among older adults. These multidimensional resources go beyond material wealth, highlighting the significance of intangible assets such as cultural heritage, spiritual beliefs, and intergenerational support. Additionally, formal social support systems were identified as critical contributors to resilience. The presence or absence of these resources significantly shaped individuals’ capacity to cope with crises. Participants described access to economic, cultural, familial and spiritual resources, and formal social support, as contributors to their capacity to cope. These findings describe associations and lived experience; they are hypothesis-generating and do not establish causal relationships. Future quantitative or longitudinal research is required to test causal mechanisms.