Active Ageing: The Effects of Diet and Physical Activity on the Well-Being of Older Adults

This study examines the effects of diet and physical activity on the well-being of older people in Abidjan, by comparing institutional norms and real-life experiences. The aim is to analyse how these practices influence the physical, psychological and social health of older people, in a context of changing diets and unequal access to sports facilities. The triangulated qualitative approach involves semi-structured interviews with senior citizens from a variety of backgrounds, ethnographic observations in sociable spaces (markets, sports clubs, health centres) and an analysis of institutional discourse on active ageing. The results show that while certain dietary and sporting practices enhance autonomy and socialisation, economic constraints, cultural perceptions and infrastructure deficits limit their adoption. The discussion highlights the tension between globalised prescriptions and local roots. In conclusion, it appears essential to adapt public policies to the realities of the Ivory Coast in order to promote inclusive active ageing.