Variations in Well-being: Psychological Resilience in Later Life: an Examination of the Interplay Between Personality and Some of the Challenges Associated with Older Age

A common perception of older age is that of a life characterised by loss and decline. Changes in health status, social relationships, activities or income pose a significant threat to the subjective well-being of an older person. But contrary to this viewpoint, for many older people their sense of well-being is not affected, despite the influence of age associated adversities. Exploring this ¿well-being paradox¿ is the focus of this book. It critically examines how psychological resources are an important source of resilience in older age. It analyses how well-being may be maintained through the effects of psychological resilience as an ¿interpretive link¿, and how resilience may protect against challenges associated with ageing. In doing so, this book disputes many of the myths of older age.