Explores the utility of Bandura's self-efficacy theory for studying older adults' behavioral competencies in college. Expectations of personal efficacy are viewed as mediating mechanisms for predicting the initiation and persistence of educationally relevant behaviors. Theoretical issues related to the assessment of self-efficacy and performance…

Notes that, in North America, older women are less likely to be suicidal than older men. Focuses on older women's low rates of suicide mortality. On basis of literature review, suggests several hypotheses, including one that gender differences in suicide mortality reflect differences in coping and another that gender differences are influenced by…

It is generally recognized that age, by itself, is not an adequate criterion with which to judge a person's ability to drive. Individuals do not age at the same rate, and there are large intraindividual differences in the aging process. This study, the first phase of a proposed two-phase research project, investigated the relationship of physical…

Describes a model hypothesizing that differential service prescription based on client characteristics improves successful rehabilitation outcome. Studies the validity of this model using entry characteristics and services rendered to Goodwill Industries clients (N=445) as independent variables. Treatment outcome or placement was the criterion.…

Integrates the traditional activity theory explanation of adjustment to aging with the aged subculture theory advanced by Rose. A path model to data from two subsamples of older adults. Self-conception is shown to be an important intervening variable between social activity and life satisfaction. (Author)

Tests alternative theoretical models of environment-individual interaction. Findings point to the importance of person-environment fit in the areas of congregation, impulse control, and segregation in explaining morale. (Author)

Models the impact of three domains of environmental variables (ecological/architectural, psychosocial, and personal) on the mental health and well-being of 989 community-based rural elderly. Perceived environmental constriction, satisfaction with dwelling features, and satisfaction with community were the largest predictors of mental health.…

Presents a framework that identifies variables associated with relationship dynamics that exist between older persons and their social network members. Suggests framework can be used by case managers to help them assess the characteristics and functioning of their clients' social network relations and develop service strategies that maximize the…