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Perceived Control and Aging: A Mini-Review and Directions for Future Research
Stephanie A Robinson1, Margie E Lachman
1Department of Psychology, MS 062, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, USA.
Gerontology
|April 10, 2017
Summary
Perceived control positively impacts health and well-being in aging adults. Research explores mechanisms and interventions to maintain adaptive control beliefs throughout life, highlighting a reciprocal relationship with health.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Gerontology
- Health Sciences
Background:
- Perceived control is linked to positive aging outcomes, including health and well-being.
- A decline in perceived control is often observed with aging.
- Understanding the mechanisms behind this relationship is crucial for intervention development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review research on perceived control and aging from descriptive, explanatory, and modification perspectives.
- To explore the sociodemographic variations and outcomes associated with perceived control.
- To identify mechanisms linking perceived control to aging-related outcomes and inform intervention strategies.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional and correlational studies to describe variations and outcomes.
- Longitudinal and experimental studies to clarify directionality and mechanisms.
- Review of existing literature on perceived control and aging.
Main Results:
- Perceived control shows positive associations with health and well-being in aging.
- Control beliefs impact subsequent health changes, indicating a reciprocal relationship.
- Evidence suggests a bidirectional link between perceived control and health/well-being.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed on intraindividual variability and reactivity to daily stressors.
- Developing strategies to enhance control beliefs in later life is essential.
- Personalized interventions, considering individual control beliefs, are recommended for adaptive behavior change.