The geography of happiness in old age: Insights from older adults in Türkiye

This study presents the first and pioneering analysis of the urban dimensions of happiness among older adults in Türkiye, utilizing data from the 2023 Türkiye Older Persons Profile Survey conducted by the Turkish Statistical Institute and applying the Partial Proportional Odds model to examine the social, demographic, financial, psychological, physical, and environmental determinants of well-being. The findings highlight critical concerns, including a sense of partial safety, physical activities without choice, and free public transportation, all of which are associated with lower levels of happiness. Conversely, factors such as protecting individual rights, maintaining a clean and safe urban environment, and ensuring access to essential services were found to contribute positively to the happiness of older adults. This study is of particular significance as it concentrates on Türkiye, a nation characterized by a relatively youthful population currently undergoing a swift demographic transition towards ageing. It assesses the impact of various socio-spatial parameters on the current well-being of the rapidly ageing population, presenting an integrated perspective that connects individual and urban dimensions of happiness. The findings offer valuable insights for the development of policies related to ageing and older adults, thereby contributing to evidence-based strategies to improve the ageing in place for older adults in urban environments.