Pathways to empowerment: a conceptual model for disabled older adults

Purpose This paper aims to develop a conceptual framework to explain how disabled older people can move from disability-related challenges towards independent living and social inclusion through an empowerment process. Design/methodology/approach The study is conceptual and integrative in nature. Drawing on Empowerment Theory, the Social Model of Disability and the Active Ageing Framework, it synthesises interdisciplinary literature to develop the Disabled Older People’s Empowerment Model. Findings This paper proposes the Disabled Older People’s Empowerment Model to explain how empowerment influences disabled older people by internal factors (functional capacity and psychological resources) and external factors (social support, accessible environments, integrated care and assistive technology). Empowerment (adaptive coping, autonomy, self-determination, participation confidence) is a mediator between resources and outcomes. Intersectional stigma (ageism x ableism) moderates these relationships. Empowerment is posited as a means of enhancing independent living, psychological wellbeing, social participation, community inclusion, dignity, life satisfaction and healthy ageing. Practical implications The framework offers guidance for practitioners, policymakers and support organisations in designing inclusive interventions that strengthen empowerment, reduce barriers and improve the quality of life for disabled older adults. Originality/value This paper contributes to ageing and disability scholarship by integrating empowerment, disability and active ageing perspectives into a single conceptual framework. It provides a foundation for future empirical research and policy development aimed at promoting positive ageing among disabled older people.