"Kulturen fyller mitt liv"

: en kvalitativ studie om hur kultur kan främja äldres upplevelser av hälsa

Abstract

Introduction: Sweden's population is becoming increasingly older and that makes the need for a well-functioning healthcare more important. If we are going to maintain health in later age it is essential that health promotion is in focus, for example cultural activities. Aim: The aim of the study was to examine descriptions of elderly on how culture can promote their health experience. Method: Qualitative method was used in the study with semi-structured interviews. The participants were selected through a strategic selection with focus on given criteria, were the participants wouldn´t have any form of dementia. Qualitative content analysis was conducted to obtain the categories and related subcategories. Results: Based on the results three categories have been developed which were: A life of culture, Culture as an influence factor for health and Culture activities as health work. The overall theme Elderly perspective on culture has two underlying subthemes: Elderly individual perspective and Elderly group perspective. Conclusion: Cultural activities will improve the wellbeing and quality of life for elderly, which is part of the experience of health. Cultural activities will also increase fellowship and belonging. It has been found that cultural health work is essential from both an individual and group perspective for the experience of health for the elderly. The results of the study may contribute to the understanding of how culture can promote older people's experiences of health.