By Dr. Laila Surani
Founder & CEO, EMAGE CIC
Day before yesterday, I shared a blog discussing key theories of wellbeing and quality of life in later life, and how these frameworks help us understand the diverse experiences of an ageing population. Today, I want to reflect on how these theories directly shape our work at EMAGE, where our mission is to enhance the wellbeing, dignity, and active ageing of ethnic minority older adults in Redbridge and beyond. These evidence-based models guide how we design culturally meaningful programmes, empower participants, and advocate for equitable ageing.
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs reminds us that older adults can only flourish when multiple layers of need are met. At EMAGE, we prioritise safety, belonging, emotional connection, and opportunities for fulfilment—whether through safe community spaces, wellbeing sessions, or leadership roles for older adults within our projects.
The WHO Quality of Life Framework reinforces our holistic approach. We actively consider physical health, mental wellbeing, social relationships, living environments, and cultural identity. For BME communities, cultural relevance is central. EMAGE integrates traditions, language, and lived experiences to ensure programmes feel authentic and empowering.
Guided by the Capability Approach, we place agency, choice, and participation at the heart of ageing. EMAGE supports older adults not just to attend programmes, but to shape them—encouraging leadership, decision-making, and personal autonomy.
Positive psychology’s PERMA Model informs our commitment to nurturing Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. Through creative workshops, peer support groups, and intergenerational initiatives, EMAGE creates opportunities that spark joy, connection, and purpose.
The Social Model of Health highlights how structural inequalities, racism, access barriers, and social determinants affect BME ageing. EMAGE challenges these barriers through advocacy, system navigation support, and partnerships that promote fair and inclusive services.
By integrating Eudaimonic and Hedonic Wellbeing, we recognise that joy and purpose are both essential. EMAGE offers celebratory cultural events, social gatherings, volunteering pathways, and lifelong learning—all helping older adults find happiness while contributing meaningfully.
The lens of Ecological Systems Theory helps us work across the layers influencing ageing—family, community, institutions, and policy. EMAGE collaborates closely with local organisations, families, statutory bodies, and community groups to strengthen support across all levels.
Using the Salutogenic Model, we focus on resilience, strengths, and a sense of coherence. Our programmes help older adults feel that life is understandable, manageable, and meaningful—central to wellbeing in later life.
Through Ryff’s Psychological Wellbeing Model, we promote autonomy, personal growth, environmental mastery, positive relationships, purpose, and self-acceptance. EMAGE empowers older adults to age confidently, independently, and authentically.
Finally, Cultural Models of Wellbeing are foundational to our work. We design programmes that respect cultural identity, spirituality, intergenerational roles, language, food traditions, and community norms—ensuring older adults feel truly seen and valued.
Together, these frameworks strengthen the heart of our mission. By weaving them into our practice, EMAGE delivers programmes that are holistic, culturally informed, empowering, and community led. They guide not only what we do, but how and why we do it—ensuring that every older adult we serve experiences dignity, connection, and the opportunity to thrive.
