Psychological flexibility in older adulthood: a scoping review

Area of Science:

• Geropsychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Psychological flexibility/inflexibility (PF/PI) is central to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
• Research on PF/PI in older adulthood is increasing within geropsychology.
• Understanding PF/PI in older adults is crucial for mental health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the scope and size of research on PF/PI in older adults.
• To examine age differences in PF/PI between older and younger samples.
• To explore correlates of PF/PI with psychological health and ACT interventions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO.
• Included peer-reviewed articles with mean age ≥65 and minimum age ≥60, reporting self-report PF/PI measures.
• Categorized PF/PI into open, aware, and engaged domains.

Main Results:

• Older adults demonstrated greater awareness compared to younger adults.
• Openness and awareness showed significant medium to large correlations with anxiety and depression.
• PF/PI inconsistently related to quality of life and did not relate to positive affect.

Conclusions:

• The literature on PF/PI in older adults is emerging but shows variability and limitations.
• Measurement issues and lack of conceptual clarity require further attention.
• Future research should incorporate values and behavioral measures.