Maybe the older really are wiser when it comes to happiness

Experts from the Jockey Club study suggest it is less about the material aspects of life, and more about taking concrete action, such as spending more time with loved ones, supporting each other and fostering quality communication, all of which strengthen relationships and lead to happiness.

From the study, we found that older adults prioritise contentment and find a sense of purpose supported by family, friends, community, religious faith and/or work. They tend to have greater self-awareness and are more other-oriented, sharing a concern for the younger generation.

Building authentic and meaningful relationships is important, and they are developed over time. These relationships are grounded in shared interests, backgrounds and values such as responsibility, independence and perseverance, which speak to older adults’ experiences of nation-building and the rapid industrialisation from the 1960s to 1980s.

Humanistic psychologist Abraham Maslow observed that older adults, shaped by different life experiences from young people, are more predisposed to self-actualisation as human development occurs over a lifespan.

Self-actualisation, which involves recognising and fulfilling one’s potential and talent, relies on and is nurtured by curiosity and passion. It often entails some risk-taking to step out of comfort zones, push boundaries and explore new possibilities, requiring courage, commitment and self-understanding.

Enjoyment is an important experience which senior citizens pursue through leisure, including travel, exercise, wining and dining, and engaging in thoughtful conversations with friends. Enjoyment requires effort and involves other people; it often takes commitment, some knowledge and cultivation to engage in those