Active and healthy aging in Croatia: An example from the city of Zagreb

Abstract

For the quality of life and satisfaction of older individuals, in addition to financial status and social inclusion, good health and preserved functional abilities are crucial. The way to achieve a better quality of life in old age is linked to the concepts of active and healthy aging. This approach enables individuals to participate in the workforce for a longer period and reduces the needs and costs that the growing older population places on the healthcare system and various social services. In promoting active and healthy aging, researchers emphasize the importance of a life cycle perspective, focusing on activities throughout one's life rather than just in old age. We will present findings from a qualitative research study on aging in place of individuals aged 65 and older living in the city of Zagreb. Interviews were conducted with a sample of 20 older residents of Zagreb from December 2022 to January 2023, covering various aspects of their lives both past and present, using a life cycle perspective. The aim was to assess the extent to which an active lifestyle during different life stages influences overall quality of life in old age. Results showed that a significant predictor of healthy and active aging is regular physical activity and an active lifestyle. Additionally, the preservation of various interests and plans (future-oriented thinking) and the (material and social) opportunities for their realization were confirmed as crucial for the personal satisfaction of older individuals living in their own homes. Alongside regular physical activity, being in any way involved in the community, maintaining a social network (relationships with family members, friendships, neighbourly relations, relationships with former colleagues), and participating in leisure activities while fulfilling daily obligations (self-care) were extremely important for older individuals. Active and healthy aging is the result of an active lifestyle, primarily physical activity, the prolonged preservation of independence, individual involvement in the community, and maintaining a broad range of interests in all aspects throughout one's life.