With the ageing of the world’s population, the importance of shifting the emphasis from illness and disease in older people to healthy and active living at an older age is now in the forefront of research. Not only do we need to understand how it is possible to withstand the physiological processes of ageing, but we should also focus on the psychosocial aspects of getting older.
In 2002, WHO defined Healthy Ageing “as the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables wellbeing in older age” Therefore, the question is: How can societies provide the pillars to encourage active and healthy ageing?
In addition, it might be better to redefine the term healthy. Most older people suffer from one or more disorder and disability. Among those with diminishing abilities, we can identify those who adapt relatively well to their changing situation and report good well-being. But what helps them to adapt and show signs of resilience?
Resilience is generally considered as a positive characteristic and despite the exposure to adversities, resilient people use failure as an opportunity to spot their weaknesses. A better understanding of the factors and mechanisms that either support or hamper resilience may help healthcare professionals, policymakers and the general public to find better ways to deal with physical and mental limitations in older adults.
This Research Topic aims to include articles that present effective ways to promote resilience, strategies to adapt to aging in societies, and strategies to support the increasing numbers of older people.
With the ageing of the world’s population, the importance of shifting the emphasis from illness and disease in older people to healthy and active living at an older age is now in the forefront of research. Not only do we need to understand how it is possible to withstand the physiological processes of ageing, but we should also focus on the psychosocial aspects of getting older.
In 2002, WHO defined Healthy Ageing “as the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables wellbeing in older age” Therefore, the question is: How can societies provide the pillars to encourage active and healthy ageing?
In addition, it might be better to redefine the term healthy. Most older people suffer from one or more disorder and disability. Among those with diminishing abilities, we can identify those who adapt relatively well to their changing situation and report good well-being. But what helps them to adapt and show signs of resilience?
Resilience is generally considered as a positive characteristic and despite the exposure to adversities, resilient people use failure as an opportunity to spot their weaknesses. A better understanding of the factors and mechanisms that either support or hamper resilience may help healthcare professionals, policymakers and the general public to find better ways to deal with physical and mental limitations in older adults.
This Research Topic aims to include articles that present effective ways to promote resilience, strategies to adapt to aging in societies, and strategies to support the increasing numbers of older people.
