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Experience sampling with elderly persons: an exploration of the method.
1NH & MRC Social Psychology Research Unit, Australian National University, Canberra.
International Journal of Aging & Human Development
|January 1, 1991
Summary
This study found that experience sampling is an acceptable and useful method for collecting data on the daily lives of elderly widows. The technique provided reliable information about their activities, thoughts, and moods.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Elderly populations present unique challenges for data collection.
- Understanding the daily experiences of older adults is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and utility of the experience sampling method (ESM) in elderly widows.
- To assess participant acceptance and data quality using ESM in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Employed Csikszentmihalyi's experience sampling method over one week.
- Collected data on activities, thoughts, and moods from elderly widows (age > 69).
Main Results:
- The experience sampling method was acceptable to most elderly participants.
- The method yielded reliable and valid data, especially from younger, more mobile women.
- ESM proved useful for gathering insights into home-based daily lives.
Conclusions:
- Experience sampling is a viable method for studying elderly widows' daily lives.
- Methodological adaptations may enhance data collection from less mobile elderly individuals.
- ESM offers valuable data for gerontological and psychological research.