Perception of Chronic Illnesses in the Context of Psychological Well-being of Older Adults

Older people represent a growing part of population, and among expected phenomenona, chronic illnesses may have an significant impact on overall quality of life. In a sample of elderly in age between 60 and 95, cognitive and emotional aspects of illnesses, as well as their relationships with successful aging, optimism and life satisfaction, were explored. Number of illnesses range from 1 to 5, and most of the participants reported they have one chronic illness (72.9%). Most frequently reported were heart diseases (51.7/%) and bone, joint and muscle diseases (22%). Results showed that perception of chronic illnesses significantly correlated with variables of psychological well-being. Namely, perception of less severe consequences and lower number of symptoms, less concern and better control of negative emotions were related with greater optimism, greater life satisfaction and more successful aging. Additionally, three dimensions of illness perception (personal control, treatment control and understanding) were significant predictors of successful aging. Older adults that have some chronic condition but, at the same time, estimate that they can control it and understand it well, can age successfully despite their illnesses. These results indicate the importance of understanding and controlling chronic illness in the context of successful ageing and life satisfaction.