Citation

Salamon MJ. Activ. Adapt. Aging 1985; 7(2): 111-122.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1985, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J016v07n02_15

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Three theories used to describe role development in older adults are activity, disengagement and continuity. Studies have suggested that activity contributes to life satisfaction and hence to the viability of activity theory. This study replicates such work using, the Salamon-Conte Life Satisfaction in the Elderly Scale. Two hundred and forty-one respondents were asked to describe activities involved in as well as role theory ascribed to. The latter issue was assessed in both forced choice and open ended formats. Results indicated that affiliation, not active involvements, was more positively related to life satisfaction. Furthermore, respondents suggested a broader variety of roles than could be explained by three theories.