Determinants of Perceived Life Satisfaction in the Institutionalized Elderly

Abstract

An understanding of the variables that affect life satisfaction of the institutionalized elderly can assist health professionals to assess individual needs, and to identify and implement appropriate interventions to meet these needs. The question of which variables best predict high life satisfaction among the elderly has been a focus of much investigation in gerontological research. Studies have measured overall satisfaction levels for the institutionalized and non-institutionalized elderly, and have determined internal and external variables which influence life satisfaction. There is, however, a lack of studies that examine the relative contribution of predictor variables to the improved life satisfaction of the institutionalized elderly. Literature Review Life satisfaction has been investigated under indices of morale, happiness, and adjustment (Tesch, Whitbourne, & Nehrke, 1981). Two major approaches have been used to study the subject: an investigation of the overt behaviours of the individual, such as range of activities and social participation; and the person's subjective evaluation of his present and past life (Neugarten, Havighurst, & Tobin, 1961). Three general areas are relevant to the life satisfaction of the institutionalized elderly: the characteristics of the elderly person, the relocation process, and the characteristics of the institutional environment. Many researchers believe that the personal characteristics of the elderly person who relocates to an institution are the primary factors contributing to low levels of life satisfaction. Fawcett, Stonner, and Zeplin (1980) found that the life satisfaction scores of 56 institutionalized elderly women related significantly to a belief in personal influence, and that they related inversely to perceived institutional restraint. Reid, Haas, and Hawkings (1977) found that elderly persons, whether institutionalized or non-institutionalized, who had a low sense of control had a more negative self image and reported themselves to be less happy and content than did those with a high sense of control. Felton and Kahana (1974) found that an external locus of control was significantly related to successful adjustment among institutionalized elderly. Chang (1978) found, however, that residents had higher morale when they perceived they had control over daily activities, regardless of