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Coping Patterns in Advanced Old Age: Findings from the Fordham Centenarian Study
Kim Uittenhove1,2, Daniela S Jopp1,2, Charikleia Lampraki1,2
1Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Gerontology
|February 27, 2023
Summary
Coping strategies in individuals aged 95+ show a preference for emotion control and acceptance. However, distinct groups emerged, with some utilizing active problem-solving for better well-being in advanced old age.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Research on coping mechanisms in advanced old age is limited.
- Understanding how centenarians and near-centenarians cope is crucial for aging research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore coping patterns in individuals aged 95 and older.
- To identify characteristics associated with specific coping patterns in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of coping strategy use and preferences in 87 participants (mean age 99.05) from the Fordham Centenarian Study.
- Application of cluster analysis to identify distinct coping patterns and compare group characteristics.
Main Results:
- Very old individuals predominantly used emotion control and acceptance.
- Cluster analysis revealed two groups: high coping (greater strategy use) and low coping.
- The high coping group showed a preference for active problem-solving, proactive prevention, and strategic planning.
- Significant differences were found in psychological strengths and well-being outcomes between the groups.
Conclusions:
- Findings support a developmental shift towards acceptance and emotion control in advanced old age.
- Distinct coping patterns exist, with active strategies potentially promoting well-being.
- Continued use of active coping may be beneficial for maintaining well-being in extreme old age.
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