Health in the context of healthy ageing among people aged 65+ in South Bohemia

Goals: This research aims to clarify the relationships between healthcare use and availability, preparation for active ageing and ageing, and involvement in the care of one's health among people aged 65 and over. Methods: Qualitative research (grounded theory) was used to achieve the goal. This study was conducted from the beginning of February to the end of April 2024. The informants were people aged 65 and over who lived in South Bohemia. Semi-structured interviews were used. Results: Health was the central category. Other categories were care availability, GP services, active ageing, alternative medicine, and hospitalisation. The connections found show that health is the key to fulfilling the idea of healthy ageing and is closely related to self-sufficiency. Self-sufficiency is essential from the point of view of active ageing. They pay attention to maintaining it from the point of view of planning the future. On the other hand, illness is a factor influencing thoughts about the future, the availability of care, and the need for information. Communication becomes an essential element, which is intertwined with the entire concept of successful ageing. Conclusion: The results suggest that paying more attention to examining the expectations of patients and healthcare professionals regarding care aimed at maintaining and restoring health, or possibly implementing changes, is going to be necessary.