Unique Vulnerability: Perceived Risk in Aging Adults
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D)
Department
Psychology and Special Education
Date of Award
Fall 2022
Abstract
Approximately 73 million Americans are age 65 or older and as this population group is expected to steadily rise, research designed to aid in understanding factors influential in their health-related perceptions becomes ever more necessary. Using a cross-sectional design, the present study investigated the perception of unique vulnerability in aging adults as a function of their proximity of exposure to illness or injury. Proximity of exposure refers to the relationship between an individual and the person experiencing the illness or injury (distant acquaintance, close acquaintance, or self). Likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic, data collected returned results varying from those expected. Participants from each age category reported feelings of vulnerability, financial concerns, and proximity to illness, injury, and death. Uncertainties associated with the COVID-19 pandemic seemingly caused wide-spread vulnerabilities, and while data analysis in several key areas supports the presence of unique vulnerability in aging adults, future research is still needed.
Advisor
Tracy Henley
Subject Categories
Psychology | Social and Behavioral Sciences
Recommended Citation
Latham-Staton, Sarah, "Unique Vulnerability: Perceived Risk in Aging Adults" (2022). Electronic Theses & Dissertations. 1048.
https://digitalcommons.tamuc.edu/etd/1048
