Predicting the Perception of Aging Based on Optimism in the Elderly People

Objectives:

 Changes in aging peiod can have profound effects on the life and mental health of the elderly people. Optimism and perception of aging are among the factors associated with the psychological wellbing of the elderly people. The present study aimed to predict the perception of aging based on optimism among the elderly people.

Methods & Materials :

This is a correlational study. The study population consisted of all elderly residents of Qom city in Iran in 2018. Of these, 270 were selected using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected using Life Orientation Test-Revised (LOT-R) and Aging Perception Questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS v.21 software.

Results :

Participants 177 male (65%) and 93 female (34%) with a mean age of 74±6.05 years. There was a significant positive correlation between optimism and perception of aging in the elderly (P<0.01); optimism could predict and explain 56% of variations in the perception of aging (P<0.01).

Conclusion:

 Optimism can predict the perception of aging in the elderly people; Therefore, it is suggested that mental health professionals and those working in the field of aging should use the results of this study to design psychological interventions and educational packages, and hold optimism skills training workshops to improve the optimism of older people.