Envejecer con sentido. Un estudio cualitativo y multicultural

Introduction

Currently in Catalonia, multiculturalism is increasing, also among older people. However, little is known about the aspects that give meaning to aging or whether there are differences by origin and culture.

Objectives

Identify what it means to age meaningfully for people over 50 years of age from different origins and cultures.

Method

We present a study carried out with people over 50 years of age from different cultures who live together in the Alt Empordà region (Girona). We have worked with qualitative methodology, 7 focus groups and 2 in-depth interviews.

Results

We identified 9 factors to age meaningfully: 1- Having basic needs covered. 2- Spirituality. 3- Family. 4- Contributing socially/feeling useful. 5- Carrying out leisure activities. 6- Accepting aging. 7- Being able to choose where and how to grow old and die. 8- Visualize the elderly and 9- Personalized attention. The differences between the priorities of these 9 factors have led us to describe three ways of aging with meaning: a) Aging of contemplation, b) Aging enjoying opportunities and c) Aging claiming to be full-fledged agents.

Conclusions

The group of older people is heterogeneous in the same way as the rest of society. This heterogeneity implies different ways of understanding old age with meaning as well as the needs that arise. It is important to work with social and health professionals so that they understand the need to know the person and their interests to better personalize care.