Coping and Life Satisfaction in Colombian Older Adults

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Oct 9;18(20):10584. doi: 10.3390/ijerph182010584.

Abstract

Background: Effective coping strategies facilitate older adults' optimal adaptation and contribute to their well-being. Problem-focused strategies are associated with active styles and enhance well-being. This study analyzes the role of coping strategies in Colombian older adults' subjective well-being (SWB) using structural equation modelling. Additionally, Confirmatory Factor Analyses of the Life Satisfaction Scale and Coping Strategies Questionnaires are performed.

Method: A cross-sectional study is conducted with 455 Colombian older adults, ranging from 65 to 92 years old.

Results: The results show that problem-focused coping has a positive effect on SWB, whereas emotion-focused coping has a negative effect on SWB.

Conclusions: This article highlights the relationship between effective coping and life satisfaction by showing that problem-focused coping strategies are adaptative and enhance well-being during aging.

Keywords: aging; coping; life satisfaction; structural equation model; well-being.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Colombia
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Emotions
  • Humans
  • Personal Satisfaction*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires