Impact of Affect Balance on Cognitive and Physical Function in Adults With and Without Fibromyalgia

Objective: To identify the potential benefits of heightened levels of affect balance in older adults with and without chronic pain on various cognitive domains, physical performance, and perceived cognitive and physical health.

Method: Ninety-one older adults, some with and some without fibromyalgia (FM) participated. Objective tests included cognitive (immediate and delayed recall, delayed recognition-CERAD 10-item word list) and physical measures (Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale; lower body strength-30-s chair stand; gait velocity-30-ft. walk). Self-report measures were problems with forgetting, activities of daily living (perceived function), and affect (Positive and Negative Affect Scale [PANAS]). Affect balance was calculated as positive minus negative affect from the PANAS.

Results: Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that-regardless of FM status-higher affect balance was associated with better episodic memory performance (immediate recall, delayed recognition), better balance, enhanced lower body strength (more chair stands), and healthier gait (30-ft. walk), as well as less forgetfulness and better perceived functional health.

Conclusion: Increased affect balance was associated with better objective and subjective health in older adults both without and with chronic pain. Positive psychology treatments which increase affect balance are easy to administer, cost effective, and may add an important, additional treatment modality for maintaining health in normal aging adults as well as those with chronic pain.

Clinical relevance: In order to help patients with healthy aging, nurses need to be aware of the potential long-term effect of emotional state on overall function and be able to counsel patients regarding potential treatments to enhance positive global emotions such as resilience.