COPING AND A SENSE OF CONTROL AMONG THE OLDEST OLD - AN EXPLORATORY ANALYSIS

This study reports on two modes of adaptation of 150 individuals, 85 years and older. High proportions had experienced physical and social losses, yet most were able to sustain a sense of well-being. Two adaptive techniques were observed. First, in confronting these losses, coping strategies were directed toward specific problems. Boundaries around the physical and social environment were commonly narrowed and simplified, and daily activities were routinized to make them more manageable. The individuals who were the most successful copers were likely to be younger and in better physical status. Second, to develop a sense of control over their lives, these respondents commonly used discourse strategies that manipulated the meanings of long-term survivorship. These processes entailed redefinitions of their optimal health and functioning and their desired level of social integration. Respondents also were likely to change their time orientation from the future to the present and come to terms with their own mortality.