Methods
We
examined data in 1,140 adults from the Successful Aging Evaluation
(SAGE) study, a structured multi-cohort investigation of community-based
adults selected using random digit dialing. There were 219 participants
with cancer (excluding skin cancer) and 912 without cancer. ATOA was
assessed with the Philadelphia Geriatric Morale Scale, and its
relationship with measures of physical, cognitive, and mental health, as
well as resilience was evaluated.
Results
Individuals
with cancer reported slightly more pessimistic ATOA than individuals
without cancer. ATOA correlated with physical and mental health in
individuals with and without cancer. Hierarchical linear multiple
regression revealed that ATOA contributed significantly to the
prediction of physical and mental health after controlling for
socio-demographic variables and resilience.
Discussion and Implications
Higher
levels of positive ATOA appear to be a protective factor for health in
older adults, including those with cancer. Interventions that provide
education about positive aspects of aging, modify negative automatic
thoughts, and promote optimism may be useful for increasing ATOA and
thereby improving physical and mental health in older adults, especially
those with cancer.
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