129 To Examine the Factors Affecting the Health and Wellbeing of Centenarians Living in Ireland

Abstract

Background

The notable increases in life expectancies worldwide combined with advances in contemporary medicine, escalating healthcare costs and increased demands on social services has driven the interest in centenarians as a model for healthy ageing. According to the United Nations, the global number of centenarians is set to continue to climb, expecting to reach more than 25 million people in 2100 (Robine & Cubaynes, 2017). Though the role of genetics in the context of successful ageing is irrefutable, it is important to recognise that the determinants of ageing go beyond genetics alone and equal credence needs to be given to one’s social and economic circumstances, to their physical environment and finally, to one’s own individual characteristics and behaviours.

Methods

The study focused on selecting a subsample of participants who were 100 years or older until the saturation point was reached. This study employed story telling (one to one interviews) in order to give centenarians a voice. Stories help us to answer the “big” questions about the meaning of life in general and of our lives specifically.

Results

A number of key themes emerged from the study denoting the factors that affect the health and wellbeing of Irish centenarians including, social connectedness, resilience & robust personality, continued participation in life throughout the life course and spirituality.

Conclusion

This research demonstrates that the successful attainment of longevity goes beyond the maintenance of physical health and concludes that in order to promote optimum well-being among older people, it is necessary to take note of the experiences, views and values, of the older person themselves.