Self-perceptions of aging: A conceptual and empirical overview

Abstract

This article defines self-perceptions of aging (SPA) as individuals' perceptions, expectations, and experiences regarding their own process of growing old(er). As such, SPA are considered a critically important element of the aging self. Furthermore, the authors present a heuristic model that positions adults' SPA within a lifespan developmental and cultural-societal context and elaborates distal and proximal antecedents, process modes, and developmental outcomes. The remainder of the article summarizes recent empirical findings and discusses future challenges and directions.

Keywords: Awareness of age-related change; Cultural-societal context; Developmental outcomes; Lifespan developmental context; Self-perceptions of aging.