Dr. Maryam Koosha | Social Welfare, Ageing and Social Health | Researcher
PhD in Social Welfare | Institute for Humanities and Cultural Studies | Iran
Dr. Maryam Koosha is a researcher in social welfare whose scholarly work focuses on ageing, social health, elderly care, social inequality, and public policy. Associated with the Institute for Humanities and Cultural Studies in Iran, her research examines the social and socioeconomic challenges affecting older adults, with particular attention to the experiences of elderly women and the policies needed to support their well-being. Her research integrates qualitative inquiry, policy analysis, and social research to explore the relationship between social support, community participation, financial security, and quality of life in later adulthood. Dr. Koosha has investigated the social health of older people in Tehran, identifying challenges that include social isolation, limited empowerment, financial difficulties, gender-based neglect, generational differences, and inadequate access to age-friendly public spaces. Her findings emphasize the importance of coordinated social support, accessible community services, psychological assistance, and inclusive urban environments in improving the lives of older adults. Another important dimension of her research concerns the feminization of ageing and the policy implications of demographic change. Her work examines how gender inequality, economic insecurity, and social exclusion can intensify the vulnerabilities experienced by elderly women. Through qualitative methods and documentary analysis of relevant policies and laws, she explores gaps in existing support systems and identifies opportunities for more responsive and equitable ageing policies. Dr. Koosha has contributed to scholarly discussions through publications addressing elderly social health, social exclusion, and policy approaches to ageing in Iran. Her research connects social welfare scholarship with practical concerns in public administration, social protection, and community-based care. By highlighting the lived experiences of older adults and the structural factors that influence their well-being, her work supports evidence-informed discussions on ageing policy, social inclusion, and sustainable welfare services. Her research interests are relevant to policymakers, social scientists, gerontology researchers, and practitioners working to improve the quality of life and social participation of ageing populations.
Featured Publications
1. Koosha, M., & Lalegani, A. (2024). Assessing the social health of the elderly in Tehran: Challenges and strategic solutions. Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus, 1(4), 100091. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aggp.2024.100091
2. Koosha, M., & Allameh, H. (2025). Feminization of aging, instability, exclusion cycles, and policy imperatives in Iran. Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics Plus, 2(2), 100106. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aggp.2024.100106
3. Koosha, M., & Allameh, H. Policy gaps and strategic directions for improving elderly social health in Iran. Research on social health policy and the welfare needs of older adults in Iran.
Research areas: Social Welfare, Social Health, Gerontology, Ageing Policy, Elderly Care, Social Inclusion, Gender Inequality, Social Protection, Quality of Life, and Public Policy.