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Research Article Volume 11 Issue 2
Social and emotional skills for healthy ageing: a critical review of current challenges and future perspectives
Abílio Lourenço, Sabina Valente, Pedro Amaro
Senior Researcher of Institute of Education; University of Minho. Portugal
CARE – Research Centre in Health and Social Sciences, Portalegre Polytechnic University, Portugal
Research Centre in Education and Psychology (CIEP), University of Évora, Portugal.
Received: August 25, 2026 | Published: September 15, 2026
Citation: Lourenço A, Valente S, Amaro P. Social and emotional skills for healthy ageing: a critical review of current challenges and future perspectives. MOJ Gerontol Ger. 2026;11(2):51‒61. DOI: 10.15406/mojgg.2026.11.00359
Abstract
Healthy ageing depends not only on disease prevention and the preservation of physical functioning, but also on the capacity to cope adaptively with changes, losses, transitions, and relational and emotional challenges. Building on prior research demonstrating the relevance of emotional intelligence to geriatric care, this article broadens that perspective by analyzing the role of socio-emotional skills in promoting healthy ageing. A critical and interpretative review is developed, critically integrating conceptual, theoretical, and empirical contributions on emotional regulation, resilience, adjustment to retirement, active ageing, social participation, depression prevention, and psychological well-being. The analysis seeks to overcome the fragmentation of these domains by examining their interrelationships and the conditions under which socio-emotional skills may favor adaptive coping, resilience, social participation, mental health, and a meaningful life. The implications for clinical and gerontological practice, multidisciplinary intervention, and the development of preventive and well-being promotion strategies are also discussed. The review highlights the need for approaches that recognize the heterogeneity of ageing and simultaneously consider individual, relational, social, and contextual factors. Finally, priorities for research and intervention are identified, including longitudinal, cross-cultural, and intervention-effectiveness studies to strengthen socio-emotional skills across the life course.
Keywords: socio-emotional skills; healthy ageing; emotional regulation; resilience; active ageingolder adults; social participation; psychological well-being
©2026 Lourenço, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.