The Impact of Reminiscence on Socially Active Elderly Women's Reactions to Social Comparisons

Abstract

The goal of this study was to experimentally examine how social comparison with younger and same-age targets influences perceptions of future well-being and mood among elderly women. In addition, we assessed whether life satisfaction and reminiscence about a positive former self moderated these reactions. Results indicated that reminiscence prior to comparison with a successful, younger target improved well-being of women who were low in life satisfaction. Also, downward comparison with a same-age target had a more negative impact on low-satisfaction women than did upward comparison with a same-age target. In conclusion, this study suggests that reminiscing has an impact on how elderly women, especially those who are relatively dissatisfied with their current life status, respond to social comparisons.