Does Caregiving Hasten Aging? Exploring the Link Between Triple-Duty Caregivers’ Transitions and Subjective Age
2024

Does Caregiving Hasten Aging?

publication

Author Information

Author(s): Sun Xin, Hu Zhan

Primary Institution: Fudan University

Hypothesis

This study examines the relationship between various caregiving transition types and subjective aging over time.

Conclusion

Sustained caregiving is associated with a relative decline in subjective age, particularly with ongoing extramural caregiving.

Supporting Evidence

  • Sustained caregiving is linked to a relative decline in subjective age.
  • Caregiver role transitions can lead to an accelerated increase in subjective age.
  • A positive self-perception of aging enhances subjective age in female caregivers.
  • A positive general aging attitude reduces subjective age in male caregivers.

Takeaway

Taking care of others can change how old you feel, and different types of caregiving can make you feel older or younger.

Methodology

The study utilized data from the 2018 and 2020 waves of the China Longitudinal Aging Study to examine caregiving transitions and subjective aging.

Participant Demographics

The study involved caregivers, with a focus on differences between male and female caregivers.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.3253

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