PhD Defence Sophie Korenhof

How can we support people to stay healthy, independent, and engaged as they age?

This PhD thesis explores factors that influence healthy ageing and evaluates innovative approaches to promote well-being among older adults. The research highlights the role of fear of falling, frailty, functional limitations, multimorbidity, and loneliness in shaping health-related quality of life. It also examines emerging technologies, such as the use of energy and water consumption data to support independent living, and evaluates two European self-management programs for people with chronic conditions: SEFAC and EFFICHRONIC. The findings show that self-management interventions can improve perceived health, psychosocial well-being, and quality of life, while potentially reducing healthcare utilization. Together, these studies provide new insights into healthy ageing and offer practical directions for strengthening prevention, self-management, and integrated care for older adults across Europe.