The Longitudinal Effects of Chronic Illness on Functional Limitations and Psychological Well-Being: Do Age and Control Beliefs Matter?

Beth A LeBreton, Purdue University

Abstract

This research project is comprised of two longitudinal studies that utilized MIDUS (Midlife in the United States) data that was collected over two time points (approximately 9-10 years apart). Study 1 assessed how baseline chronic conditions (or multimorbidity status) affected follow-up functional limitations (i.e., activities of daily living) and psychological well-being (i.e., hedonic and eudaimonic well-being). Study 2 examined how changes in illness status affected changes in functional limitations and psychological well-being. Age and control beliefs were tested as potential moderators in both studies. Results of study 1 indicated that as illness levels increased at baseline there was a corresponding increase in functional limitations and a decrease in hedonic well-being at follow-up. Control beliefs, however, buffered the relationships between baseline illnesses and follow-up levels of basic activities of daily living (BADLs), negative affect, positive relationships with others, and self-acceptance. Age did not moderate any of the relationships found in study 1. Results of study 2 indicated that individuals who were consistently multimorbid at both time points and those who became multimorbid over the two time points had more problems with BADLs and lower hedonic well-being than those who were consistently healthy and/or had only one illness. Control beliefs buffered the effects of changes in BADLs and negative affect. Additionally, age exacerbated the effects of multimorbidity on BADLs and purpose in life. Results indicate that multimorbidity is a distinct experience that can have detrimental effects on physical and mental health, and age can sometimes worsen these effects. However, having high control beliefs can serve as a buffer against the deleterious effects of multimorbidity.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Friedman, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Developmental psychology|Psychology

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