Ageing well: The experience of ageing in childless elderly Chinese women

Abstract

Introduction Hong Kong is a Chinese-based community. The life expectancy of Hong Kong female is 88 which is the longest in the world. However, the fertility rate has been declining over the past 38 years. This specific situation leads to an increasing number of childless elderly Chinese women. In Chinese culture, one of the major purposes in raising child/children is to secure support in old age. Without a child, the childless women are expected to receive less support in a number of aspects than those who have a child. The way how they experience ageing is believed to be unique. The aim of the study is to explore the experience of ageing in elderly Chinese women.

Method This exploratory qualitative study was conducted in Hong Kong. Purposive sampling was adopted. Six childless elderly Chinese women, who aged 65 or above, were recruited. This study used an in-depth semi-structure interview to generate data. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, and then analysed using thematic analysis.

Results Four themes emerged in the study, they were: (i) putting a great effort to maintain physical independence; (ii) keep learning new things; (iii) capture the present pleasure moments by various technological means; and (iv) do not waste time in worrying about what will happen as one ages.

Conclusion Overall, participants are leading an active style of living which is characterised by maintaining and even increasing own capabilities in living, enjoying the present moment, and avoiding to worry about the future. Having positive attitude to ageing and being receptive to new things (including information technology) are the essences of ageing well in childless Chinese elderly women. These results could help policy makers to formulate appropriate policies and instill relevant resources to support the childless elderly Chinese women, thereby enabling this growing population to age well.