Lived Experiences of Ageing and Wellbeing Among Older Adults Living in the Rural Maldives: A Phenomenological Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55712/fwnkak21Keywords:
Older adults, Health and well-being, Social isolation, Long-term care, Ageing in place, Rural health servicesAbstract
Ageing in place is integral to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) and aligns with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. This phenomenological study explores the lived experiences of fifteen older adults, aged sixty-five to eighty-one, residing in a small rural island community in the northern region of the Maldives. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and a thematic analysis was conducted to identify the enablers, barriers, and concerns associated with ageing in place. Key enablers for ageing well in place included a sense of autonomy and competence, as well as strong connections to the island, the community, family, and the natural environment. Conversely, barriers identified were inadequate housing, poor nutrition, challenges related to functional and sensory disabilities, and the presence of multiple chronic health conditions. Difficulties in accessing transport and health infrastructure—both within the island and the atoll—and the necessity of travelling to Malé for tertiary healthcare further hindered the ability to age in place. Recurring concerns included the lack of respite care to ease spousal caregiver burden, fear of becoming a burden on others, and anxieties related to medication management. The psychological needs of older adults, particularly those experiencing social isolation and loneliness, require attention through sustainable development strategies tailored to island communities. This study also challenges the prevailing socio-cultural expectation that elderly individuals will be cared for by family members—particularly offspring and spouses. Notably, two of the fifteen interviewees had no immediate family caregivers, and one was a disabled elderly person. As life expectancy continues to rise, the need for proximal residential care facilities integrated with healthcare infrastructure will become increasingly critical in island settings to ensure the provision of long-term care. The findings of this study are relevant to older adults, their families, and island communities, as well as to policymakers, healthcare and social service professionals, and civil society organisations. They highlight the importance of promoting health, wellbeing, and dignity for older individuals residing in remote rural islands.
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