[Gerotranscendence as a life cycle perspective: an initial empirical approach among the elderly in The Netherlands]

Gerotranscendence has been defined as a shift in meta-perspective, from a materialistic and rationalistic perspective to a more cosmic and transcendent one that accompanies the process of aging. The present study describes scale characteristics of the Dutch translation of Tornstam's gerotranscendence scale, using data from a sample among adults aged 56-76 years (N = 556). Two subscales evolve from scale analysis, similar to those found by Tornstam: cosmic transcendence and egotranscendence. Scores on both subscales are higher for the older old, as well as for the unmarried; divorced or widowed respondents who suffer from physical impairments. Scale scores are also higher for respondents with depressive complaints. On the subscale cosmic transcendence Roman Catholics have higher scores than Protestants and non-church members. On the subscale ego-transcendence well educated respondents and those with few social contacts have higher scores than persons with less education and those with many contacts. The strength of the associations is modest and the variance explained is small. The findings warrant further research into the question whether gerotranscendence adds to competence in later life.