Geographies of wellbeing in later life
“How are you doing?” It’s an everyday question that touches on something fundamental: our wellbeing. Wellbeing is about how you feel right now and how satisfied you are with your life as a whole. It depends on what you value and whether those needs are met. In an aging society, it is important that older adults continue to experience high levels of wellbeing—and that we, as a society, help make this possible.
This research explores the wellbeing of older adults, focusing on their views, experiences, and everyday lives. Four domains matter most for their wellbeing: social life, activities, health, and space and place. The living environment—such as the home or neighborhood—can support wellbeing, but it can also pose challenges. If we want older adults to experience high wellbeing, ensuring that they live in an environment that fits their needs deserves our full attention.
Unfortunately, that living environment is not always optimal. Barriers in daily life can make it harder for older adults to do what they value. What matters most is whether older adults can continue engaging in meaningful activities, despite changes or limitations. Older adults show adaptive capacity and adjust in many ways—through practical strategies, such as moving to adapted housing, as well as through inner adjustments, like acceptance. Supporting their adaptive capacity is highly valuable.Older adults are eager to think and act alongside others, working together with stakeholders—such as municipalities and welfare organizations—to shape policies and interventions that promote their wellbeing.