INTRODUCTION: well-being is a key construct for understanding quality of life. The aim of the present study was to analyze how well-being changes in old age and to determine if there are any modifications in this variable during this period. MATERIAL AND METHODS: the LIS and EBR scales were applied to a sample of 169 persons aged more than 64 years. Linear and curvilinear regressions were estimated to understand the associations among age, well-being and life satisfaction. RESULTS: pearson correlations showed statistically significant negative relations among age and environmental mastery, personal growth, purpose in life, and overall well-being. However, life satisfaction showed a curvilinear, quadratic relation with age, revealing that this dimension decreases in the first few years of old age but increases again after the age of 85 years. CONCLUSIONS: the decrease in several well-being factors could be caused by the increase in adaptive accommodation strategies. Increased longevity, together with better health, competence and relationships could potentially explain the increase in life satisfaction among the oldest population.
INTRODUCTION: well-being is a key construct for understanding quality of life. The aim of the present study was to analyze how well-being changes in old age and to determine if there are any modifications in this variable during this period. MATERIAL AND METHODS: the LIS and EBR scales were applied to a sample of 169 persons aged more than 64 years. Linear and curvilinear regressions were estimated to understand the associations among age, well-being and life satisfaction. RESULTS: pearson correlations showed statistically significant negative relations among age and environmental mastery, personal growth, purpose in life, and overall well-being. However, life satisfaction showed a curvilinear, quadratic relation with age, revealing that this dimension decreases in the first few years of old age but increases again after the age of 85 years. CONCLUSIONS: the decrease in several well-being factors could be caused by the increase in adaptive accommodation strategies. Increased longevity, together with better health, competence and relationships could potentially explain the increase in life satisfaction among the oldest population.