Cognitive and psychosocial predictors of subjective well-being in urban older adults

Clin Neuropsychol. 2003 Feb;17(1):3-18. doi: 10.1076/clin.17.1.3.15626.

Abstract

Prior research indicates that physical health and social support have substantial influences on subjective well-being among older adults. However, little research has examined the influences of coping style and cognitive functioning on subjective well-being among older adults. This study investigated cognitive and psychosocial predictors of subjective well-being among 129 adults, ages 65-89 years. Canonical correlation indicated that subjective well-being was characterized by two dimensions: life satisfaction and affective balance (happiness). The use of emotion-focused coping strategies and poor perceived health were associated with diminished perceptions of life satisfaction, whereas task-oriented and avoidance-oriented coping were positively related to happiness. Cognitive functioning was positively related to life satisfaction and pleasant emotions independent of education and income.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Cognition / physiology*
  • Female
  • Geriatric Assessment*
  • Happiness*
  • Health Status
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Personal Satisfaction*
  • Psychological Tests
  • Regression Analysis
  • Social Support
  • Surveys and Questionnaires