Stereotype Embodiment and Fear of Falling in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Blount Amber, Ali Eman, Leinbach Carla, Kim Dahee, Lafontant Kworweinski, Lighthall Nichole, Thiamwong Ladda
Primary Institution: University of Central Florida
Hypothesis
The study explores the association between stereotype embodiment and implicit associations of aging, and their impact on fear of falling among older adults.
Conclusion
The study found that self-identification with negative aging stereotypes contributes more to fear of falling than implicit stereotype beliefs.
Supporting Evidence
- 86.9% of participants exhibited implicit aging stereotype beliefs.
- 41.4% of participants displayed stereotype embodiment.
- 48.3% of those with both negative implicit associations and stereotype embodiment had high fear of falling.
- No significant correlation was found between stereotype embodiment and implicit associations.
- A significant association between stereotype embodiment and fear of falling was found.
Takeaway
Older people who think negatively about aging are more scared of falling, especially if they really believe those negative thoughts about themselves.
Methodology
The study assessed stereotype embodiment using a questionnaire and implicit associations using the Age Implicit Association Test, while fear of falling was measured with a specific scale.
Participant Demographics
Low-income community-dwelling older adults, mean age 74.6 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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