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The distribution of distress among elders
Journal of Gerontology
|March 1, 1986
Summary
Older adults (aged 65 and over) do not experience higher distress than younger people. Community-dwelling older adults show comparable or lower psychological distress rates, challenging common perceptions of aging.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Common perception: older adults experience increased psychological distress.
- This perception suggests higher distress prevalence in older vs. younger populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine distress prevalence in community-dwelling older adults.
- To compare distress rates between older and younger age groups.
- To challenge stereotypes about aging and distress.
Main Methods:
- Data from a random probability sample of 476 older adults (aged 65+).
- Analysis of psychological distress prevalence.
- Regression analyses to assess the impact of age and demographics.
Main Results:
- Distress prevalence rates in older adults are comparable to or lower than younger groups.
- Age and other demographic variables showed minimal importance in regression analyses.
- Findings contradict the notion of widespread, elevated distress among older adults.
Conclusions:
- Revised perception of aging and distress is warranted.
- Community-dwelling older adults experience similar psychological distress levels as younger cohorts.
- Stereotypes associating aging with higher distress are not supported by this data.