83 ‘WHAT DOES “ACTIVE AGEING” MEAN TO YOU?’ A FIVE-COUNTRY SURVEY OF ACADEMICS, STUDENTS, ADVOCACY GROUPS, AND ‘EXPERT’ OLDER PEOPLE

Methods: An anonymous online survey, in five partner countries (Ireland, Greece, Austria, Slovenia and Greece) asked senior undergraduates and recent graduates; future employers; relevant academics; and other key stakeholders (e.g. advocacy groups, policy makers, and ‘expert’ older people): ‘What does the term active ageing mean to you?’. Content analysis of their replies ensued. Results: Within the first 473 responses, the most common concept (at nearly 50%) was active participation in society, including social engagement and other gainful activities, while hobbies and activities were also mentioned. The other main concept was that active ageing means favourable personal life qualities. This encompassed a broad range of aspects such as dignity, and physical, psychological, and social wellness. Health (physical and psychological), living longer in good health, and health promotion were often specified, while positive self-esteem, self-image, and self-respect were mentioned occasionally. Independence, including autonomy, ability to self-care, and decision-making and financial independence, was another key concept. Service provision in health and social care, and policy and rights were frequently mentioned. Most concepts were similarly reported in all five countries, but there were some nuances, such as Irish participants citing autonomy and service provision less often. Conclusion: This European data highlights the understanding, among a range of stakeholders, of the concept of ‘active ageing’, as occurring at both a societal/service level, and at a personal level, with health, wellness and independence being key elements of the latter.