Self Perceptions of Aging: Women's Views of The Aging Process
Abstract
Society has generally taught women in a rather subliminal way they should remain
young, thin, and beautiful (Horton, Baker, Cote, & Deakin, 2008; Mock & Eibach, 2011; Stark-
Wroblewski, Edelbaum, & Bello, 2008). As the number of older adults increase, the driving
forces that determine self-perceptions of aging are essential. Using a hierarchical regression
analysis, the current study examined self-perceptions of aging among older adult women. For the
study, 102 females (age 60 and older) in the Red River Valley area completed a survey on selfperceptions
of aging. Sense of mastery was significantly related to negative self-perceptions of
aging. The findings demonstrate that one’s self-worth and ability to do things without needing
help may play an important role in how an aging woman feels about herself and her own aging
process.