The role of temporal orientation in reactive and proactive illness management

The present study examined whether the effects of temporal orientation on illness self-management in older women with osteoarthritis (N = 74) were moderated by perceived threats to life goals. When perceived goal threat was lower, individuals who were highly future-oriented engaged in a greater number of arthritis management behaviors, especially proactive strategies (e.g., exercise and dietary supplements). When individuals perceived more threat to life goals, having a greater present orientation predicted greater use of arthritis management behaviors, particularly reactive strategies (e.g., taking pain medication). Results suggest that temporal orientation is important in determining whether individuals take a more reactive or proactive approach to illness management, particularly when considering the potential consequences of illness on quality of life.