Discourses of Aging: Experiences and Perspectives of Older Adults in China Within the Context of the SDGs

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the discourses of aging experiences for older adults in China, with the aim of gaining insight into understanding the older adults to provide better service for them in the realization of the sustainable development goals (SDG). Theoretical Framework: In this paper, the main concepts and theories that underpin the research are presented. Using social constructionism and life course theory as the theoretical framework, this study draws on the view that we construct certain realities and views of the world through the use of language, providing a solid basis for understanding the context of the investigation. Method: The study adopts a discourse analysis to investigate the older adults’ aging experience. Patterns of language across texts as well as the social and cultural contexts are examined in that the texts occur through the analysis of language in use. Data collection was carried out through semi-strctured focus group interviews. Results and Discussion: The findings revealed that the dominant discourse of older adults’ experience was concerned with the aging well and keeping healthy. The older adults in China talked about their aging perceptions based on maintaining a good mindset, regular diet and exercises, positive attitudes and healthy lifestyle. This positive discourse of aging showed that older adults were satisfied with their later life. This had close relationship with Chinese aging policy and current social circumstance for the older adults, which demonstrated that China has practiced the SDGs undoutedly. The older Chinese adults used positive discourse to show their positive attitudes towards aging which could be defined as new notion of positive aging. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied or influence practices in the field of discourse of aging. The application of existing theories and methodological approaches to discourse of aging and illness may also be of significant interest for other researchers. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the knowledge of discourse of older adults in China and gain more insights into aging population and facilitate understanding of aging for whole society.