Resilience of older adults in two urban neighborhoods shows how older adults in vulnerable neighborhoods are rediscovering their strength and voice. Many of them feel unheard and have little trust in institutions. They participated in this study as co-researchers. Through photos and conversations, they captured their world. This fostered new resilience, connection, and recognition.
Authors: Crétien van Campen, Elena Bendien, Jos de Haan, Tineke Abma with the cooperation of: Janine Schrijver, Zohra Bourik, Derya Uzun, Marleen Dohmen, Eveline Kiela, Miriam Verhage and Leen Sterckx.
Image: © Wiebe Kiestra
Not all older adults feel seen or heard in our society. Especially in neighborhoods experiencing poverty, health problems, or social exclusion, many older adults feel their voices are not heard. They lack support, trust in the government, and sometimes even trust in themselves. This report focuses on this group: older adults in vulnerable positions who nevertheless find the strength to participate.
In this study, older adults collaborated with researchers. They took photos of their neighborhoods and shared their stories. This led to remarkable conversations about what it means to participate, to belong, and to rebuild trust.
The report shows what it takes to truly engage older adults: time, attention, and the willingness to take their world seriously. Not by talking about them, but by working together. This not only provides insight but also new energy and hope—for older adults themselves and for policies that strive to connect with their lives.