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.