EC Psychology And Psychiatry

This hermeneutic phenomenological study examines how older adults in Hong Kong experience and interprets positive ageing, with a focus on the subjective processes through which wellbeing is cultivated in later life. As global populations age, qualitative, firstperson accounts are essential for understanding ageing beyond biomedical or declineoriented frameworks. Two selfidentified positive agers participated in semistructured Zoom interviews, offering rich descriptions of their lived experiences. Analysis revealed three interrelated themes: (1) ageing as a liberating and reflective life phase that enables renewed selfunderstanding; (2) wellbeing as actively sustained through sensory, embodied practices-such as gardening-and through meaningful social relationships; and (3) resilience as grounded in emotional endurance, community belonging, and a sense of legacy. Participants’ narratives, including P1’s depiction of retirement as “lightness” and P2’s emphasis on pride and contribution, challenge deficitbased assumptions and highlight autonomy, purpose, and fulfilment in later life. Although limited by a small sample, the study underscores the importance of personal agency, cultural values, and social engagement in shaping positive ageing. The findings support personcentred approaches and ageinclusive policies, offering insights for psychological practice and communitybased interventions aimed at enhancing older adult's wellbeing.

 Keywords: Positive Ageing; Lived Experience; Hermeneutic Phenomenological Study; Well Being; Ageing Perceptions; Older Adults

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