Psychosocial influences on possible selves: A comparison of three cohorts of older adults

Abstract

This study examined the psychosocial factors that influence the possible selves of older adults in their 60s, 70s, and 80s or older. Specifically, the factors that influence when and why health becomes salient in later life were examined. Findings showed that health was the most important domain of self for the oldest group. Although age was the strongest predictor of health-related selves, older males with better health and few physical limitations, were most likely to report health-related selves. Leisure, the most salient domain for the youngest group, was predicted by age, independent of health. The findings from this study shed light on how sense of self is influenced by the changing developmental context of the later years, the importance of exploring alternative conceptions of ageing, and help to identify possible points of intervention to help older adults age more successfully.