Recent research from the University of Surrey sheds light on how the perceived age of dementia caregivers can impact both their own well-being and that of their loved ones living with dementia. The study, published in The Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences, reveals that the felt age of spousal caregivers is closely linked to the felt age of individuals with dementia.
The concept of felt age refers to how old someone feels compared to their actual age. This perception plays a significant role in shaping individuals’ mental and physical health outcomes, including mortality rates. By understanding how people perceive their own aging process, researchers can gain insights into various aspects of their well-being.
Dr. Serena Sabatini, the lead author of the study, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of felt age between dementia caregivers and their loved ones. According to Dr. Sabatini, the study findings underscore the significance of relationship quality in aligning perceptions of aging, with caregivers’ younger felt age potentially benefiting the well-being of individuals with dementia.
The research conducted by Surrey’s team analyzed data from the British IDEAL study, involving 1,001 pairs of individuals with dementia and their spouses. The study participants, ranging from 41 to 95 years old, provided valuable insights into how felt age influences relationship quality, well-being, life satisfaction, and self-confidence.
Using advanced statistical analyses, the researchers explored the connection between the felt ages of individuals with dementia and their spouses. By employing the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model, they delved into how one person’s feelings and behaviors could impact their partner’s mental and emotional health within the caregiving relationship.
This scientific approach allowed the team to uncover the shared perceptions of aging within caregiving relationships and how these perceptions may influence each other. The study highlights the need for interventions and policies that support both caregivers and individuals with dementia, promoting healthier aging experiences and enhancing the overall quality of life within these relationships.
