Evaluation of Healthy Aging Themes from the Perspectives of the Elderly: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: The increase in the elderly population is one of the most critical challenges facing various countries worldwide, including Iran. Medical and social problems are also rooted in this demographic problem. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the healthy aging themes from the perspectives of the elderly. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted on all the elderly living in Shahrekord using thematic analysis among whom, 15 individuals were selected using the purposive sampling method based on the inclusion criteria. The sample size was determined considering data saturation. The participants took part in a semi-structured interview who were coded into three categories to analyze the data i.e., basic, organizing, and global themes through a thematic analysis approach. Results: The analyses indicated eight organizing themes, including satisfaction with marital life, healthy lifestyle, satisfaction with moral issues, spiritual orientation, independence and financial self-sufficiency, intra-generational dynamism, intergenerational dynamism, and social satisfaction. Finally, the global theme of dynamic aging was extracted by integrating the organizing themes. Conclusions: According to the results, many factors, including marital, psychological, religious, family, economic, and social factors, are involved in dynamic aging. In addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the findings of this study can inform professionals who work with this demographic group about other factors that contribute to a healthy aging process.