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Worry and rumination in older adults: Differentiating the processes
Geoffrey D'Hudson1, Lauren L Saling
1Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia.
Aging & Mental Health
|May 19, 2010
Summary
This study found worry, brooding, and reflection are distinct in older adults. However, these repetitive thought patterns appear linked to coping, suggesting a unified construct for managing anxiety and depression in the elderly.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Gerontology
- Mental Health
Background:
- The factor structure of the Ruminative Response Scale (RRS) in older adults requires further investigation.
- Previous research on RRS factor structure was limited to small UK samples.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the factor structure of the adapted Ruminative Response Scale in a large Australian older adult sample.
- To explore the distinct and overlapping characteristics of worry, brooding, and reflection in relation to coping behaviors in older adults.
Main Methods:
- 138 older adults (aged 65–97) completed measures of worry, rumination, anxiety, and coping behavior.
- Factor analysis was used to determine the structure of the Ruminative Response Scale.
Main Results:
- A three-factor structure emerged, comprising worry, brooding, and reflection.
- No unique relationships were found between rumination components (brooding, reflection) and worry or coping pathways.
Conclusions:
- Worry, brooding, and reflection are distinguishable constructs in older adults.
- The findings suggest rumination and worry are part of a unified construct of repetitive thought, impacting coping strategies.
- Implications for managing anxiety and depression in the elderly are discussed.
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