What Do Women Want? Identifying Life Goals in a Community-Based Sample of Women Aged ≥60 Years

Few studies have examined women’s perspectives on their health and priorities in older age. In the current study, we administered a cross-sectional survey to women aged ≥60 years, recruited at a large community event in 2019. Participants (N = 303; mean age = 68 years) reported up to three 12-month life goals in open-text fields (N = 1,053 goals). Our qualitative analysis identified 25 themes under four domains: Health and Wellness (n = 339 goals), Work and Leisure (n = 316 goals), Relationships (n = 199 goals), and Personal Growth (n = 170 goals). The most frequent themes pertained to family relationships, travel, staying healthy, and physical activity. Findings did not vary by participants’ comorbidity status. Women have diverse aspirations as they age, including nurturing relationships, acquiring novel skills and experiences, and maintaining overall health and wellness. Gerontological nurses can better meet the needs of this population by expanding their awareness of patients’ life goals and partnering with women to optimize health to achieve these goals.