Successful aging was conceptualized in the ecology system theory. The present study employed qualitative semi-structured interviews to understand the grandchild caregivers’ experiences of subjective successful aging, impacted stressors to hamper them from a successful life and relevant coping strategies embraced in individual, interpersonal relationship and social systems. Components of subjective successful aging included valuing physical health, family success and social participation. Stressors and coping strategies were coded as a function of timing (present vs. future) and the subjective certainty. The most frequently mentioned stressors were physical restraints and the appearance of different values with adult children In addition to the mostly used reactive coping strategies, older adults also often employed preventive strategies to cope with the potential physical restraints, or anticipatory strategies to cope with the stressors in interpersonal relationship system. Moreover, the lack of financial security and medical care from the community system also played a role. As such, older adults proactively saved money to prepare for their older age. Relevant findings are discussed in relation to policies and institutional measures.

Authors:
Yiqi Wangliu, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Hu Yue, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Helene H Fung, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Yuehei Wong, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Yuying Tong, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

About the Presenter(s)
WANGLIU Yiqi is interested in aging issues, family caregiving, loss and grief. She is a Year-three PHD candidate from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. She is good at linking the theoretical resources from social work to the empirical study.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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