Relationships between altruistic activity and positive and negative affect among low-income older adult service providers

Abstract

Self-reported altruistic activity was examined as a predictor of positive and negative affective states among a sample of 115 low-income older adults who were actively providing services to others within a federally subsidized service delivery program (Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions). Results indicated that altruistic activity was predictive of positive, but not negative affect. It was found that altruistic activity was a significant predictor of positive affect after controlling for relevant demographic variables including social support and income. The theoretical and clinical implications of this research are discussed.