Quality of Life in the Third Age: A Research on Risk and Protective Factors

Abstract

Literature indicates that good levels of self-esteem, self-efficacy and social support would be elements of strength in the elderly, while, loneliness, depression and anxiety would be among the main elements of vulnerability mentioned in studies on wellbeing in the Third-Age. Our aim was to examine the role of these factors in the perception of Quality of Life in its different dimensions. Protective factors were: self-esteem, perceived social support and self-efficacy; depression, anxiety and loneliness were considered as risk factors. Participants were 464. Results evidenced the importance to plan interventions for the elderly, in areas like self-efficacy and self-esteem, anxiety and depression.