Perceptions of aging and wellness engagement among life plan community residents

Abstract

ABSTRACT Despite the availability, some residents choose not to participate in wellness offerings at their residential communities. Perceptions of aging can influence engagement in healthy behaviors. The purpose of this research was to examine the relationship between perceptions of aging and wellness engagement among Life Plan Community residents. A total of 447 residents (ages 59 to 97; M = 81.82, SD = 6.55) of 10 Life Plan Communities completed surveys that measured their perceptions of aging, self-reported wellness, interest in improving wellness, participation in wellness programs, and barriers to wellness participation. Multiple regression analyses revealed that more positive perceptions of aging were associated with better wellness, higher interest, more frequent participation, and fewer barriers. Follow-up analyses revealed that these effects could be accounted for by specific types of aging attitudes (i.e. psychological growth, psychosocial loss, and physical change). These findings have implications for the development, implementation, and promotion of wellness programs for older adults.