Successful Aging: A Psychosocial Resources Model for Very Old Adults

Authors

G. Kevin Randall, Bradley UniversityFollow
Peter Martin, Iowa State UniversityFollow
Mary Ann Johnson, University of GeorgiaFollow
Leonard W. Poon, University of Georgia

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

2012

Citation

Journal of Aging Research Volume 2012, Article ID 934649, 11 pages

Comments

Copyright © 2012 G. Kevin Randall et al.

Open access

doi:10.1155/2012/934649

Abstract

Objectives.Using data from the first two phases of the Georgia Centenarian Study, we proposed a latent factor structure for the Duke OARS domains: Economic Resources, Mental Health, Activities of Daily Living, Physical Health, and Social Resources. Methods. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted on two waves of the Georgia Centenarian Study to test a latent variable measurement model of the five resources; nested model testing was employed to assess the final measurement model for equivalency of factor structure over time. Results. The specified measurement model fit the data well at Time 1. However, at Time 2, Social Resources only had one indicator load significantly and substantively. Supplemental analyses demonstrated that a model without Social Resources adequately fit the data. Factorial invariance over time was confirmed for the remaining four latent variables. Discussion. This study’s findings allow researchers and clinicians to reduce the number of OARS questions asked of participants. This has practical implications because increased difficulties with hearing, vision, and fatigue in older adults may require extended time or multiple interviewer sessions to complete the battery of OARS questions.