Domain-Specific Views on Aging and Preparation for Age-Related Changes-Development and Validation of Three Brief Scales

J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci. 2020 Jan 14;75(2):303-307. doi: 10.1093/geronb/gby055.

Abstract

Objectives: We developed brief versions of our questionnaires to assess domain-specific views on aging (age stereotypes and future self-views) and preparation for age-related changes.

Methods: The brief scales were validated in an online study with N = 301 participants aged 23-88 years.

Results: Mean values across domains show a differentiated picture for all 3 constructs, yielding evidence for the multidimensionality of views on aging and preparation for age-related changes. Rating profiles for the brief versions were similar to the long versions of the questionnaires, attesting to the equivalence of the brief and long scales. Within-domain correlations between the 3 constructs were also higher than between-domain correlations, further substantiating the claim of domain-specificity with regard to the predictive validity of the brief scales.

Discussion: The new brief versions of the scales can be recommended for a differentiated assessment of views on aging and preparation for age-related changes when short forms of measurement are required.

Keywords: Age stereotypes; Brief scales; Future self-views; Life domains; Preparation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging / physiology
  • Aging / psychology*
  • Attitude to Health*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult