What Do We Mean by the Term Wellbeing?

“Wellbeing” is a word we hear everywhere. It appears in health services, social care, workplaces and policy documents. It is often used with good intention, but its meaning can become blurred. Depending on the context, wellbeing can mean very different things to different people.

At Plan With Care, when we talk about wellbeing in later life, we are talking about far more than physical health alone. We see wellbeing as a whole person concept. One that recognises emotional, physical and social wellbeing, alongside purpose, meaning and daily enjoyment.

Importantly, wellbeing and welfare go hand in hand. Supporting someone’s welfare without considering their wellbeing risks missing what truly matters in their life.

Why wellbeing is more than health

Health and wellbeing are closely linked, but they are not the same thing. Someone can be living with long-term health conditions and still experience a strong sense of wellbeing. Equally, someone may appear physically well but feel lonely, anxious or disconnected.

For older people especially, wellbeing is shaped by life experiences, relationships, independence, identity and feeling valued. It is about how life feels, not just how the body functions.

That is why a wellbeing-focused approach looks beyond tasks and symptoms and pays attention to what truly matters to the person. For those supporting welfare decisions, understanding the holistic picture of wellbeing is key to ensuring that decisions respect the person’s dignity, choices and quality of life.

Emotional wellbeing

Emotional wellbeing is about how we feel day to day. It includes feeling safe, understood, respected and emotionally supported.

In later life, emotional wellbeing can be affected by many things. Changes in health, bereavement, loss of independence, moving home or feeling forgotten can all take a toll. Feeling listened to and having space to express worries or emotions is vital.

Supporting emotional wellbeing might mean regular conversation with someone who takes time to listen. It might involve reassurance during periods of change, or simply being treated with kindness, patience and dignity.

Feeling emotionally well does not mean being happy all the time. It means feeling secure enough to experience emotions and knowing you are not facing life alone.

Physical wellbeing

Physical wellbeing is often the most visible part of wellbeing. It includes mobility, comfort, nutrition, sleep and managing health conditions.

However, physical wellbeing is not just about medical needs. It is also about feeling comfortable in your body, maintaining as much independence as possible and being supported in a way that feels respectful.

Small things make a big difference. Having the energy to get washed and dressed in a way that feels like you. Being supported to move safely and confidently. Enjoying food rather than simply eating to meet a requirement.

Physical wellbeing supports every other aspect of wellbeing. When someone feels more comfortable and supported physically, they are often better able to engage socially and emotionally too.

Social wellbeing

Humans are social beings at every stage of life. Social wellbeing is about connection, belonging and feeling part of something.

In later life, social circles can naturally shrink. Friends may move away or pass on. Family may live at a distance. Reduced mobility can make getting out harder. Over time, this can lead to loneliness and isolation.

Social wellbeing does not mean being busy all the time. It means having meaningful connection. A trusted relationship. A sense that someone knows you and cares about you.

This might look like regular companionship, shared activities, visits out into the community or simply having someone to talk to over a cup of tea. Feeling socially connected supports confidence, mood and overall quality of life.

Purpose and meaning

Purpose and meaning are often overlooked in conversations about older age, yet they are central to wellbeing.

Purpose is about feeling that life still has value and direction. Meaning comes from identity, contribution and connection to what matters most to you.

For some people, purpose comes from relationships with family and friends. For others, it might be hobbies, faith, volunteering, storytelling, or simply being part of everyday routines.

Supporting purpose and meaning might involve helping someone continue activities they love, adapting them where needed. It might involve recognising past achievements and life stories, or supporting new goals, however small they may seem.

Wellbeing is deeply connected to feeling that you still matter.

Daily enjoyment

Wellbeing is not only about the big picture. It is also about the small moments that bring pleasure and comfort.

Daily enjoyment might be a favourite television programme, music, time in the garden, a familiar routine, or a shared laugh. These moments can easily be dismissed as minor, but they are often what give days their colour.

When daily enjoyment is prioritised, life feels richer and more personal. It turns support from something functional into something human.

A holistic view of wellbeing

True wellbeing support takes time to understand the person, their story, their preferences and what gives their life meaning now. It requires attention to emotional, physical and social needs, alongside purpose and enjoyment. At Plan With Care, we see wellbeing as something that is personal, flexible and constantly evolving. That is why we conduct regular wellbeing reviews for every older person that we support.

When wellbeing is placed at the heart of support, older people are not just cared for. They are seen, valued and supported to live life in a way that feels right for them.

Learn more about how we can support wellbeing in welfare decisions with our Wellbeing Assurance Subscription.