Abstract:

While perceptions of age by the aged have been explored, research concerning the single, middle-aged woman's perceptions of her own physical, social, & psychological changes has been minimal. A 1986 follow-up to a 1977 study that addressed perceptions of their own aging process is presented. Differences in how perceptions of biophysiological & social-psychological issues at projected ages of 65, 70, 75, 80, & 85 changed over 9 years are also identified. A Likert-scaled questionnaire was distributed to 67 Fs who remained in the study, & semistructured interviews were conducted with randomly selected participants. This qualitative approach was planned in order to gain a phenomenological understanding of the participant's perceptions, & the influence of various life events. The original study's results indicated that Ss anticipated a high level of independence from filial support, adequate social contact, & optimal levels of health. The 1986 findings indicate that perceptions remain consistent & that these women maintain a positive view of themselves as they age.