Empowering older adults—a strength-based and culturally inclusive framework for enhancing mental health outcomes

Background: Despite the rapid growth of the older adult population and the increasing need to address mental health disparities in older adults, ageism and the embodiment of age stereotypes have negatively impacted their mental health. Both the Decade (2021–2030) of the Healthy Ageing Report from the World Health Organization and the Guidelines for Psychological Practice with Older Adults from the American Psychological Association call for greater attention to focus on the strengths of older adults, positive aspects of aging, and recognition of how cultural contexts influence their psychological experiences. Aims: Against the backdrop, this article proposes a Strength-Based and Culturally Inclusive Framework of Aging (SCIFA). Overview: SCIFA is based on four theoretical foundations, including lenses from mattering, social construction perspectives, developmental perspectives, and character strengths. In addition, this article illustrates three propositions of SCIFA: (1) Aging must be considered within the context of cultural inclusivity and personalized positive plasticity; (2) Aging must be viewed as a process of value fulfillment; (3) Aging must be promoted/presented with generational solidarity. Conclusions: This article discusses recommendations and policy suggestions in the academic community, research, training, supervision, and psychological service delivery.