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Identifying the key predictors of positive self-perceptions of aging using machine learning
1Department of Psychology, Keimyung University, Daegu, South Korea.
Social Science & Medicine (1982)
|April 15, 2025
Summary
Positive self-perceptions of aging (SPA) in older adults are most strongly predicted by health status, age, and psychological resources like optimism and mastery. These findings inform interventions for healthy aging.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Self-perceptions of aging (SPA) significantly influence health outcomes and quality of life in older adults.
- Understanding predictors of SPA is crucial for developing effective interventions to promote positive aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and rank key predictors of SPA among a large cohort of American older adults.
- To examine predictors across physical, psychological, social, and demographic domains.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from over 4000 American adults (mean age ~70) from the Health and Retirement Study.
- Employed a machine learning approach (Random Forest regression) to assess the relative importance of 49 potential predictors.
Main Results:
- Health status, age, and psychological resources (self-esteem, life satisfaction, optimism, mastery) were the strongest predictors of SPA.
- Emotional tendencies, financial satisfaction, personality traits, and social factors showed lower predictive power.
Conclusions:
- Psychological resources and health status are paramount for positive self-perceptions of aging.
- Findings support the development of targeted interventions to enhance psychological well-being and health for positive aging.
Keywords:
AgingHealth and retirement studyMachine learningPredictive modelPsychological resourcesRandom forestMore Related Videos
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