The Future of Ageing Well: New Multi-Region Study Explores What It Means to Thrive in Later Life

A Global Effort to Understand Ageing in a Changing World

The Intercontinental Alliance for Integrated Care (IAIC) marked a major milestone with the launch of its first multi-region study examining how older adults across the world perceive ageing and what it means to “age well” today. Led by the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) in collaboration with international partners, the study brings together insights from different cultures, communities, and care systems to better inform policies, social support models, and holistic wellbeing initiatives.

Speaking at the opening, SUSS President Professor Tan Tai Yong highlighted a growing shift in societal attitudes: “Ageing is no longer seen as decline; it is viewed as a pursuit of purpose, connection, and choice.”

This perspective reflects a positive cultural evolution—one that recognises that dignity and autonomy are central to healthy ageing.

Guest-of-Honour, Mdm Halimah Yacob, Chancellor, SUSS, together with representatives from Singapore, Canada, China and the United Kingdom at the official launch of the IAIC study

Why This Ageing Well Study Matters

The world is at a demographic turning point. Populations are growing older, lifespans are increasing, and care needs are becoming more complex. Yet, how people feel about ageing—and how well supported they are—varies dramatically across countries and communities.

The study aims to uncover:

• What older adults truly value in their later years

• How culture shapes expectations of ageing

• What dignity, independence, and social connection mean across borders

• How care systems can evolve to support diverse needs

These findings will help governments, healthcare providers, and community organisations create environments where every individual can thrive with meaning and respect, regardless of age.

The IAIC plans to expand the research over time, welcoming more global partners and tracking long-term trends to build a deeper understanding of what contributes to a fulfilling ageing journey.

Beyond Borders: A Shared Vision for Integrated Care

This year’s IAIC theme, “Beyond Borders, Beyond Age,” sets the tone for a future where care ecosystems evolve together—not as isolated sectors, but as interconnected networks that serve real people with real needs.

As Prof Tan noted, “Integrated care is a bridge that unites services, people, and purpose in pursuit of dignity and wellbeing for all.”

This aligns with global trends emphasising person-centred care, community belonging, and inclusive support systems that address not just physical health, but also social participation, emotional wellbeing, and quality-of-life aspirations.

Rethinking Ageing: A Call for Inclusion, Engagement, and Empowerment

Guest-of-Honour Mdm Halimah Yacob echoed this sentiment, urging societies to move away from seeing older adults merely as care recipients: “Ageing is not a burden to be managed. It is a season of life to be respected, supported, and reimagined.”

She also emphasised that seniors consistently express one key desire: to feel valued and included. Many want opportunities to remain engaged, maintain social connections, and continue contributing in ways meaningful to them.

This emphasis on agency and aspiration is central to the study’s early findings. People want not just a long lifespan—but a long healthspan filled with purpose.

A Movement Rooted in Shared Humanity

Across several days of learning journeys, panel discussions, and exchanges between global delegates, one takeaway was clear: ageing well is a collective responsibility. It requires the combined effort of healthcare systems, social agencies, community spaces, families, and broader society.

The IAIC continues to build momentum toward this shared goal—not as a one-off project, but as a growing movement grounded in compassion, innovation, and collaboration.

As Mdm Halimah reminded delegates, “Ageing isn’t just about growing older. It’s about continuous renewal and self-healing. When people are supported in this journey, society becomes stronger too.”

Looking Ahead

With insights from the study set to be released progressively, the findings will help shape more inclusive policies, community frameworks, digital care innovations, and holistic ageing strategies.

At its core, the study reinforces a simple truth: ageing well is about more than healthcare. It’s about purpose, autonomy, dignity, and connection—values that transcend borders and resonate deeply across humanity.

Images: Singapore University of Social Sciences