Successful Happy Aging: A Literature Mapping with Bibliometric Analysis Using VoS Viewer

Abstract

Happiness is a central goal for the elderly, with a strong focus on achieving a high quality of life as they age. In this demographic, happiness is often shaped by a lifetime of experiences. This study aims to expand the "Happy Aging" literature by analyzing recent academic publications. A total of 567 articles published between 2021 and 2024 were reviewed and sourced from Google Scholar (200 articles), PubMed (101 articles), Scopus (6 articles), and Dimensions (260 articles). The keywords used in the search were "elderly OR aging" and "happy AND policy," with articles restricted to those published between 2019 and 2024. A bibliometric analysis approach was employed, examining sources, authors, and keyword relevance, with visualizations created using VOS Viewer software. The findings reveal that various factors, including perceptions, geographic location, access to information, mental health, support systems, country, services, group dynamics, and emotional well-being, influence success in achieving happiness in old age. Understanding these factors, particularly from the perspective of the elderly, is crucial for preparing society with an aging population. Future research faces the challenge of identifying ways to provide effective support through family, social, and religious systems, empower the elderly, and address issues related to mental health, living conditions, and overall health.