Attributions of Competence Mediate the Behaviors of Caregivers and Older Adults

Abstract

This study tests whether age stereotypes held by professional caregivers and health professionals have an effect on the behaviors of these professionals and the competence of older adults. A repeated-measures design was implemented in the State of Colima (Mexico). The first phase recorded aging stereotypes; the second phase observed the functioning of caregivers and older adults. Analyses revealed that stereotypical beliefs about competence mediated the relationships between the behaviors of caregivers and the older adults. Given that aging stereotypes held by caregivers negatively affect the competence behaviors of older persons, if we want to promote competence and active aging in senior citizens it would seem important to promote change in the stereotypical beliefs of their caregivers.