Ageing well in different community context - A quantitative study of life satisfaction among adults over 50 years of age in association with living environment and municipality population size in Norway.
Abstract
In Norway, an increased proportion of the population are relocating from less central areas to be closer to
the bigger cities. Moving tendencies towards more central locations are on historic highs but it is important
to keep in mind that this movement is not occurring on a uniform fashion across the population. Relocation
trends are significantly higher among younger adults, leaving behind shrinking municipalities with higher
shares of older persons. This trend generates several challenges in terms of sustainability and territorial
cohesion.
This thesis focuses on an apparent trivial aspect regarding this change: Life satisfaction. The aim of this
thesis is to examine the associations between subjective life satisfaction, living environment and
municipality population size among adults over 50 years of age in Norway. This is a quantitative, crosssectional
analysis using data from the third wave of the Norwegian Life Course, Ageing and Generation
Study (NorLAG). The methods used includes univariate, bivariate and multiple regression analyses.
The study uses a neighbourhood resource-based theory of social capital as frame of reference, looking at
elements such as structural antecedents, social cohesion and forms of social capital. Using an approach of
positive psychology this thesis focuses on what characterises those who report higher satisfaction in life.
Research regarding living environment and life satisfaction is relevant for the development and
implementation of aging policies.
The results of the study indicate that living environment, in the form of feeling of togetherness in the
neighbourhood and satisfaction with community, is an important factor when explaining variations of
satisfaction with life. The variable of municipality population size is less important in the direct association
with life satisfaction. The results also show positive association between municipalities with fewer
inhabitants and feeling of togetherness in the neighbourhood.
Description
Master i International Social Welfare and Health Policy