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Date Permissions Signed

6-28-2011

Date of Award

2011

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

McDonald-Miszczak, Leslie C.

Second Advisor

Row, Brandi

Third Advisor

McLean, Kate C.

Abstract

Fear of falling, Selective Optimization with Compensation (Baltes & Baltes, 1990), and activity level were investigated in older women (65+) who self-identified as being worried about falling. During this study, 88 women completed questionnaires which assessed fear of falling, falls self-efficacy, mood, SOC strategy use, and well-being. In addition, participants were asked to fill out a daily assessment and wear a pedometer to monitor physical activity level for two weeks. Physical activity level was measured by steps (total number of steps taken) and moderate steps (aerobic activity steps sustained for 10+ minutes). Participants who reported using more SOC Optimization strategies took more moderate steps; those who reported fear-based activity restriction took fewer steps and moderate steps. Fear of falling interventions researchers might benefit from utilizing SOC theory as older women may be able to manage fear of falling and maintain an active lifestyle by incorporating strategies of SOC Optimization.

Type

Text

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25710/tmjh-8836

Publisher

Western Washington University

OCLC Number

748001519

Subject – LCSH

Falls (Accidents) in old age--Psychological aspects; Older women--Health and hygiene--Psychological aspects; Older women--Psychology; Phobias; Older people--Orientation and mobility; Older people--Functional assessment

Format

application/pdf

Genre/Form

masters theses

Language

English

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this thesis for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author's written permission.

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