The Life Course Perspective on Older Adults’ Health Trajectories: Risk and Protective Factors

Abstract

According to the life course perspective (LCP), optimal human development and healthy aging are key goals that must start preconceptionally and continue later in life. However, older adult health and family health across generations have received very little attention in maternal and child health (MCH). Community-based participatory research (CBPR) is an important strategy for putting the LCP into action by engaging those communities most affected by health disparities. We conducted six CBPR focus groups using the LCP as the theoretical framework to capture community members’ perspectives of risk and protective factors for older adult health. Perceived protective factors for older adults included socialization, support systems, and practicing wellness. Perceived risk factors included caretaking responsibilities, isolation, medical issues, and lack of support. The identified risk and protective factors for older adult health must be considered when developing public health interventions that promote health equity in aging and MCH.