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“What Does Gerotranscendence Mean to You?” Older Adults’ Lay Perspectives on the Theory
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Background and Objectives: Gerotranscendence, a recent adaptive aging theory developed by Tornstam, postulates a mindset shift in old age
from a materialistic viewpoint to a more transcendent one. Gerotranscendence is considered a promising aging model, as it approaches specific
developmental challenges in late life. However, knowledge of this theory is still maturing and lacks laypersons’ perspectives to further validate
its components. This study aimed to explore how older adults perceive gerotranscendence and gain insights of their understanding.
Research Design and Methods: Three focus group discussions were conducted with 18 participants (59–98 years old; mean: 79.5 years).
The protocol included open-ended questions on what gerotranscendence, and its dimensions meant (based exclusively on their designations),
as well as on the theory’s components (after further explanation). The discussions were recorded and transcribed, and a content analysis was
performed.
Results: The data were organized into 2 themes: general suppositions and personal perceptions. This second theme was divided into (i) relatable
thoughts and experiences and (ii) a different and complementary understanding of the theory.
Discussion and Implications: Despite the lack of knowledge of the meaning of gerotranscendence, older persons presented clear evidence
that this topic was meaningful for them and that they experienced aspects of the cosmic, coherence, and solitude dimensions of gerotranscendence. However, at specific points, some participants had distinctive and complementary ideas compared with those espoused by gerotranscendence theory. Obtaining laypersons’ perspectives provides a more in-depth understanding of gerotranscendence theory and the cultural
aspects it may encompass.
Descrição
Palavras-chave
Aging theories Gerotranscendence Laypersons Older adults Successful aging
Contexto Educativo
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Licença CC
Sem licença CC