From Survival to Vitality: A Psycho-Educational Framework for Longevity Readiness and Community Development in Argao, Cebu

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between basic needs fulfillment and longevity readiness among adult saged 45 years and above in Argao, Cebu, Philippines. Guided by Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory, Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, and healthy ageing frameworks, the study utilized a descriptive-comparative and correlational research design. A total of 298 respondents from urban, coastal, and upland ecological zones participated through a researcher-developed instrument, the Argao Survival and Vitality Assessment Scale (ASVAS). Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, weighted means, standard deviations, One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation. Findings revealed that respondents demonstrated a satisfactory level of Basic Needs Fulfillment (M=2.94, SD=0.57) and a high level of Longevity Readiness (M=3.39, SD=0.78). No significant differences were found across ecological zones in terms of either basic needs fulfillment or longevity readiness. A statistically significant positive relationship was identified between basic needs fulfillment and longevity readiness (r=0.224, p<0.05), although the correlation was negligible in strength. Psychosocial integrity emerged as the strongest dimension of longevity readiness. The findings suggest that while survival conditions contribute to healthy ageing, psychosocial resources such as purpose, family support, spirituality, and social connectedness play equally important roles in promoting longevity readiness. The study proposes the Argao Longevity Program as a community-based counseling and psychoeducational intervention to strengthen healthy ageing and community well-being.