Coping in Later-Life: An Optimistic Assessment

Abstract

Aging is an area of study that has undergone considerable change in the recent past. At present, methodological flaws and researcher biases are giving way to a view of aging as a highly individualized and variable process, rich in experience and potential. From this new perspective this paper reviews older age coping and defines it as a healthy and positive process characteristic of development at later ages. Coping is regarded as a critical strategy, allowing the older population to appraise their situation, access needed skills, and face critical, radically distinct life tasks. In support of this position the traits of defensiveness and rigidity, often regarded as characteristic of the aged, are discussed and found to be inappropriate.

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