Understanding the multi-dimensional mental well-being in late life: evidence from the perspective of the oldest old population

The promotion, maintenance, and improvement of well-being among the oldest old population is becoming a great public health concern. This study aimed to explore the experiences of individuals aged 80 plus regarding their mental well-being (MWB) and its contributing factors in four European countries...

Descripción completa

Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Lara, Elvira, Forsman, Anna K., Cresswell-Smith, Johanna, Donisi, Valeria, Ådnanes, Marian, Kaasbøll, Jannike, Melby, Line, Nordmyr, Johanna, Nyholm, Linda, Rabbi, Laura, Amaddeo, Francesco, Miret García, Marta, Martín María, Natalia
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2019
País:España
Institución:Universidad Autónoma de Madrid
Repositorio:Biblos-e Archivo. Repositorio Institucional de la UAM
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:repositorio.uam.es:10486/709902
Acceso en línea:http://hdl.handle.net/10486/709902
https://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10902-019-00090-1
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:well-being
oldest old
social relationships
active aging
functioning
qualitative study
Medicina
Psicología
Descripción
Sumario:The promotion, maintenance, and improvement of well-being among the oldest old population is becoming a great public health concern. This study aimed to explore the experiences of individuals aged 80 plus regarding their mental well-being (MWB) and its contributing factors in four European countries. A qualitative approach was followed, with twenty-three focus groups. One hundred and seventeen respondents were recruited from senior community centers, adult day care centers, and nursing homes. Data was assessed using qualitative content analysis. Participants’ perspectives on MWB were collated along four dimensions: functional, social, personal and environmental. Staying healthy and maintaining independence, having close relationships with others, and insightful experiences with friends positively contributed to MWB. Additionally, engagement in fruitful or inspiring activities contributed to enhance personal development, which, in turn, had beneficial effects on MWB. Having a positive outlook was also found to be associated with MWB. Results reinforce the dynamic and multidimensional nature state of MWB, as well as highlighting the significance of psychosocial factors. Developing and implementing policy actions including a focus on the social and physical environment as well as strengthening personal capabilities and self-esteem, can foster MWB among the oldest old population