Ikigai Play: Towards an Ikigai Paradigm of Healthy and Active Ageing in Europe

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Author(s): Bruno Giesteira (University of Porto, Portugal), Tainá Souza (University of Porto, Portugal), Andreia Sousa (Lusófona University, Portugal), Liliana Rodrigues (More Than Humans, Portugal)and Guilherme Vila Maior (University of Porto, Portugal)
Copyright: 2026
Pages: 38
Source title: Reshaping Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Through Digital Innovation
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Sónia Remondes Costa (University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto-Douro, Vila Real, Portugal)and Jorge Remondes (CEOS.PP, ISCAP, Polytechnic of Porto, Portugal)
DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3373-3531-5.ch008

Keywords: Medical Information Science Reference / Medical Technologies / Medicine & Healthcare / Public Health & Healthcare Delivery

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Abstract

This chapter is grounded in the results of the ERASMUS+ funded project SmartAgeCare, which investigated active and healthy ageing strategies across eight European countries. The project aims to foster digital inclusion, civic participation, and psychosocial well-being among older adults by exploring innovative models of engagement. This chapter introduces the concept of 'Ikigai Play' as a transdisciplinary framework rooted in a meta-narrative review and inspired by the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai—meaning 'reason for being'. Synthesising evidence from national studies and digital ageing strategies, the chapter identifies regional disparities, psychosocial drivers, and the transformative potential of inclusive technologies. 'Ikigai Play' is proposed as a culturally adaptive model to support autonomy, well-being, and digital health equity.

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Ikigai Play: Towards an Ikigai Paradigm of Healthy and Active Ageing in Europe

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