Determinants of active aging and quality of life among older adults: systematic review

Abstract

IntroductionPopulation demography across the globe shows an increasing trend in the aging population due to better healthcare, improved nutrition, advanced health-related technology, and decreased fertility rate. Despite these advancements, there remains a knowledge gap in understanding the association between active aging determinants and quality of life (QoL) among older adults, particularly within diverse cultural contexts, which has not been adequately explored in previous research. Therefore, understanding the association between active aging determinants and QoL can help policymakers plan early interventions or programs to assist future older adults in both aging actively and optimizing their quality of life (QoL), as these two factors have a bidirectional relationship.ObjectiveThis study aimed to review evidence regarding the association between active aging and quality of life (QoL) among older adults and to determine the most widely used study designs and measurement instruments in studies conducted between 2000 and 2020.MethodsRelevant studies were identified by a systematic search of four electronic databases and cross-reference lists. Original studies examining the association between active aging and QoL in individuals aged 60 years or older were considered. The quality of the included studies and the direction and consistency of the association between active aging and QoL were assessed.ResultsA total of 26 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this systematic review. Most studies reported a positive association between active aging and QoL among older adults. Active aging had a consistent association with various QoL domains including physical environment, health and social services, social environment, economic, personal, and behavioral determinants.ConclusionActive aging had a positive and consistent association with several QoL domains among older adults, backing the notion that the better the active aging determinants, the better the QoL among older adults. Considering the broader literature, it is necessary to facilitate and encourage the active participation of older adults in physical, social, and economic activities for the maintenance and/or improvement of QoL. Identifying other possible determinants and enhancing the methods to improve those determinants may help improve the QoL among older adults.

Effects of a similar amount of regular non-structured or competitive physical activity across late adulthood: a cross-sectional study

“…Overall, we found that both structured exercise for competition and unstructured physical activity have several advantages on the health-related parameters taken into account, in comparison to the sedentary population. In accordance with previous research, engaging in regular physical activities can improve physical abilities and mental health ( 13 , 62 ). Prior studies have proposed various exercise programs with both multi-dimensional and single-component approaches, with some showing greater benefits than others, but all demonstrating positive effects ( 29 – 31 ).…”

Users’ Psycho-Social and Socio-Economic Characteristics in an Inclusive Health Resort Design, Port-Harcourt, Nigeria

“…Similarly, [56] opine that improving a sense of community by reducing social isolation and loneliness enhances health. [57] agree that the quality of living spaces is a quality health determinant. In health resorts, research links nature experience to psychological dimensions, perceptions and interactions with stimuli from the natural world through sensory modalities-sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell [58].…”

Enhancing Cultural Awareness : A Qualitative Exploration of Nurses' Perspectives on Application of Cultural Competence in Elder Care

“…Card (2017) defines the aging phase as beginning at 65 years old and beyond, categorizing this demographic into distinct groups: individuals aged 65-74 years are considered younger older adults, those aged 75-84 years are classified as advanced older adults, and those aged 85 and older are designated as very advanced older adults (Aslan et al, 2024). Aging is a complex process involving psychological, social, and physical dimensions, leading to various changes such as reduced cognitive abilities, decreased productivity, impaired attention, and weakened short-term memory (Marzo et al, 2023;Aktaş & Bakan, 2021). Foster & Walker, 2021;Sayın Kasar & Karadakovan, 2017).…”