Sulandari S, Coats RO, Taufik T, Johnson J. What Does It Mean to "Age Well" Among British and Javanese Older Adults? A Cross-Cultural Qualitative Study.
J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2024;
79:gbae085. [PMID:
38761106 PMCID:
PMC11200188 DOI:
10.1093/geronb/gbae085]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to investigate perceptions of what it means to "age well" and to explore similarities and differences between a Western and non-Western culture (Britain and Java).
METHODS
Qualitative interviews explored how Javanese and British older adults defined aging well, establishing the similarities and differences between cultures. Javanese (n = 14) and British (n = 15) adults aged 61-80 (mean age = 68) participated. The data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis and organized with NVivo.
RESULTS
Four themes were identified that captured what it means to age well across cultures: (a) good health is a springboard for aging well; (b) holding a positive outlook is a decisive factor in aging well; (c) "having enough" and "feeling safe" provide peace of mind; and (d) spirituality and religiosity provide tranquility. Although both cultures mentioned similar factors, there were variations in the interpretations and emphasis within themes. For example, Javanese participants emphasized the importance of the social environment whereas British participants highlighted the physical environment.
DISCUSSION
Differences between cultures are important for understanding how best to support people as they age. For example, in Java, aging well may be best supported by providing a vibrant social environment. For people in Britain, having a safe and secure physical environment may be more important.
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