Author(s)

Mamadou Dioulde Balde^*, Alpha Oumar Sall, Tiany Sidibe, Madeleine Toure, Ramata Diallo, Aissatou Diallo, Sadan Camara

Center for Research in Reproductive Health in Guinea (CERREGUI), Conakry, Guinea.

Older people are a demographically significant group, who represent a vulnerable layer within conditions for active and healthy aging that may be lacking in both urban and rural areas. Objective: To identify the main barriers and opportunities for the establishment of age-friendly cities and communities in a low-income country. Methods: This was a qualitative study that involved focus group discussions with older people, and service providers (health and social services) in the city of Conakry. The older people were purposively selected with the support of older people associations, and men and women were equally represented in the sample. Results: The analysis focused on the experience of old age as well as the barriers and opportunities for active healthy aging specific to the sub-Saharan context. The results indicate that a good quality of life for older adults boils down to the acquisition of good health and decent housing. Other concerns frequently reported were food and education problems for their children and security. Conclusion: This study contributes to strengthening the understanding of the age-friendly cities and communities’ approach in the context of sub-Saharan African countries.

Older People, Age-Friendly Cities and Communities, Barriers, Opportunities, Conakry

Balde, M. , Sall, A. , Sidibe, T. , Toure, M. , Diallo, R. , Diallo, A. and Camara, S. (2023) Aging Experiences among Older People in Conakry/Guinea: Towards an Age-Friendly City and Community. Advances in Aging Research, 12, 67-86. doi: 10.4236/aar.2023.124006.