Learning from the lived experience of functionally healthy older adults: What does it mean to be “healthy”?

Abstract

Background: Reports of older adults’ perceptions of ageing and health generally do not consider individual health status, instead presenting large cohort data or focussing on specific population groups. Moreover, qualitative studies have largely included participants with suboptimal health. Aim: This study aimed to examine functionally healthy older adults’ perceptions of health and healthy ageing. Method: Twenty-two functionally healthy older adults living independently in the community (aged 61–83 years; 68% female) participated in six focus groups to explore their perceptions about “health” and “healthy ageing”. Quantitative measures were used to describe participants’ health status. Findings: Seven themes describing participants’ experiences of healthy ageing were identified: “know thyself”, “knowledge and information management”, “choices, agency, and control”, “autonomy and flexibility”, “being strategic”, “community connections”, and “getting more out of life”. Key competencies for healthy ageing were subsequently derived, drawing connections between beliefs, behaviours, and knowledge about healthy ageing. Discussion: The identified health behaviours perceived to be important for healthy ageing align with previous reports. The subsequent overarching healthy-ageing competencies (“recognise opportunity”, “strategise”, “maximise benefits”, and “active participation”) present important pillars underpinning the process of healthy ageing that have not been previously considered in this context. Conclusion: The behaviours perceived to influence older adults’ health are varied, and the competencies identified in this study present a broad framework underpinning these behaviours. The identified competencies have the potential to inform public health initiatives, practice, and policy, empowering individuals to optimise their health.