The Impact Of Dispositional Variables Of Elders, Relatives, And Paid Caregivers On Elders’ Empowerment And Life Satisfaction

ABSTRACT

Background/Study Context: The impact of dispositional characteristic of elders’ closest network members on elders’ life satisfaction and empowerment has remained largely unexplored. This innovative study aimed to assess the impact of dispositional variables of elders, relatives, and paid caregivers on life satisfaction and empowerment of elders.

Methods: One hundred forty-three triads (one elder, one paid caregiver, and one relative) completed six scales measuring modifiable personality characteristics (loneliness, optimism, regulation of positive and negative emotions), life satisfaction, and sense of empowerment.

Results: Two dispositional variables of relatives (positivity and ability to set goals) and one dispositional variable of care workers (self-satisfaction) were significantly related to life satisfaction of elders. Positivity of elders and the capacity to set objectives of the family members affected empowerment of elders.

Conclusion: Future interventions aiming to improve life satisfaction and empowerment of elders should focus on these modifiable dispositional variables.