Conceptualising Positive Ageing in Public Health

Over the past half century, terms describing positive trajectories of ageing have proliferated across gerontology, psychology, sociology and medicine. In contrast to problem-based conceptualisations that portray ageing as a life stage defined primarily by decline, many contemporary models emphasise strengths and protective factors that support wellbeing, functioning and participation in later life. These perspectives are increasingly relevant in the context of global population ageing, which presents significant challenges and opportunities for public health systems, policymakers and communities. Positive ageing paradigms commonly address macro-level policy implementation and, at the individual level, life-course behaviours and social conditions associated with favourable outcomes among older adults, including physical and mental health, functional ability, social engagement and economic wellbeing.Despite the growing prominence of these frameworks, the terminology used to describe positive ageing remains inconsistent. Concepts such as active ageing, healthy ageing, successful ageing and productive ageing are sometimes used interchangeably, while in other cases they refer to distinct theoretical perspectives, policy frameworks or intervention strategies. This lack of conceptual clarity can create challenges for researchers, public health professionals and policymakers attempting to interpret evidence and translate findings into practice.This Research Topic aims to clarify and advance understanding of major positive ageing paradigms and their relevance to public health research, policy and practice. By bringing together conceptual, empirical and policy-oriented contributions, the Research Topic will highlight both commonalities and distinctions among these frameworks. In doing so, it seeks to strengthen interdisciplinary dialogue and support the development of evidence-informed strategies that promote health, participation and wellbeing among older populations.Suitable themes for manuscripts include, but are not limited to:• Active ageing: conceptual frameworks, measurement approaches and public health policies supporting participation and engagement among older adults;• Healthy ageing: life-course approaches to prevention, functional ability and health promotion for ageing populations;• Successful ageing: determinants of wellbeing, resilience and quality of life among older individuals;• Productive ageing: contributions of older adults through employment, volunteering and caregiving, and implications for public health policy;• Positive ageing: psychological wellbeing, life satisfaction and social participation in later life;• Optimal ageing: environmental, behavioural and policy factors that support high levels of functioning and wellbeing among older populations. Topic editors: Bernard Steinman, Marco Socci, Andrea Principi Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78948/conceptualising-positive-ageing-in-public-health