HEALTHY AGEING AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR OLDER ADULTS

Abstract

This chapter examines the concept of healthy ageing and the critical role of community support in promoting the well-being and quality of life of older adults. With the global population ageing rapidly, ensuring that older persons remain healthy, independent, and socially connected has become a major public health and social priority. The chapter explores healthy ageing from a biopsychosocial perspective, highlighting the interaction of physical health, psychological well-being, social relationships, and supportive environments in maintaining functional ability throughout later life. It discusses common challenges experienced by older adults, including chronic health conditions, cognitive changes, loneliness, social isolation, and age-related discrimination, while emphasizing the protective role of family support, community engagement, and age-friendly initiatives. Drawing on contemporary research, the World Health Organization's Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030), and principles of positive psychology, the chapter examines how community-based services, healthcare systems, volunteer networks, digital technologies, and intergenerational programmes contribute to successful ageing. It also addresses barriers to healthy ageing, such as limited healthcare access, socioeconomic inequalities, caregiver burden, and inadequate community resources. Ethical considerations and policy recommendations are presented to strengthen integrated care and promote the dignity, autonomy, and social inclusion of older adults. The chapter concludes that healthy ageing is a shared responsibility that requires coordinated efforts from individuals, families, communities, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to create supportive environments that enable older adults to lead meaningful, active, and fulfilling lives.