Successful Aging: A Psychosocial Resources Model for Very Old Adults

Date
2012-05
Authors
Randall, G. Kevin
Martin, Peter
Johnson, Mary Ann
Poon, Leonard W.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Journal of Aging Research
Abstract

Objectives. Using data from the first two phases of the Georgia Centenarian Study, we proposed a latent factor structure for the Duke OARS domains: Economic Resources, Mental Health, Activities of Daily Living, Physical Health, and Social Resources. Methods. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted on two waves of the Georgia Centenarian Study to test a latent variable measurement model of the five resources; nested model testing was employed to assess the final measurement model for equivalency of factor structure over time. Results. The specified measurement model fit the data well at Time 1. However, at Time 2, Social Resources only had one indicator load significantly and substantively. Supplemental analyses demonstrated that a model without Social Resources adequately fit the data. Factorial invariance over time was confirmed for the remaining four latent variables. Discussion. This study’s findings allow researchers and clinicians to reduce the number of OARS questions asked of participants. This has practical implications because increased difficulties with hearing, vision, and fatigue in older adults may require extended time or multiple interviewer sessions to complete the battery of OARS questions.

Description
This article was originally published in Journal of Aging Research
Keywords
Social Resources, OARS, Aging Resources, Georgia Centenarian Study
Citation
Randall, G. K., Martin, P., Johnson, M. A., & Poon, L. W. (2012). Successful aging: A psychosocial resources model for very old adults. Journal of Aging Research, 2012.