Diverse Faces of Saudi Arabia: In-Depth Profiles of Contemporary Older Adults in Riyadh Region

Graceful aging involves the harmonious development of physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and overall well-being, all of which contribute to successful aging. The demographic shift has moved the focus of policymakers, healthcare providers, and researchers from how to extend the lifespan of individuals to the improvement of the quality of life of the person in later years. The study aims to explore the lives of Saudi older adults holistically. The descriptive phenomenological research design was used. A purposive sampling and snowball were utilized. An interview-guide question was applied to examine the lives of 24 Saudi older adults living in the Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia. The interview was conducted in October 30, 2024 to March 15, 2025. The study generated seven (7) emergent themes: (1) Proper management of physical frailty and recurring sickness; (2) Attentiveness to health and nutritional limitations; (3) Keeping intimate family bond and interpersonal relationship; (4) Acknowledging increased dependence and support from others; (5) Profound and sincere religious and cultural practices; (6) Appreciating and valuing the meaning of life; and (7) Recalling the most memorable moments in life. The research manifests implications primarily in relation to public and private utilities and facilities, healthcare services, and older adults' health special programs and activities. Additionally, the study bears implications on nursing education, nursing practice, and research in gerontology nursing.