Grant
New research aims to support older people through major life transitions
Professor Søren Harnow Klausen from the Department of Design, Media and Educational Science has received a grant of more than DKK 7 million from the Independent Research Fund Denmark for the project Robust Life Transitions. The project will explore what helps older people cope with major changes in their lives while maintaining a good quality of life.
Retirement, the loss of a partner or close friends, and declining physical or mental health are among the major changes that many people experience later in life. Although older people’s coping strategies have been widely studied, existing research often provides limited insight into why and how some people are better able to adapt to these changes than others.
The researchers will explore how developing new values and interests, adapting to changing circumstances, managing emotions and maintaining relationships with younger generations can help older people navigate challenging life transitions.
Combining philosophy, the psychology of ageing and qualitative research, the project will be carried out in collaboration with municipalities and other organisations. It aims to provide a deeper understanding of why some older people find it easier than others to adapt to major changes in their lives.
The ultimate goal is to develop models and guidelines that can help improve the advice, support and care available to older people.
Associate Professor Marie Konge Nielsen from the University College Absalon is Co-Principal Investigator on the project.
Meet the researcher
Professor Søren Harnow Klausen is a researcher at Department of Design, Media and Educational Science.