A384A: Salutogenesis and changes in self-rated health.

Salutogenesis and changes in self-rated health.

Approved: 2014

Collaborators:

Prof Julie Byles
Dr Meredith Tavener
Ms Peta Forder
Dr Lucy Leigh
Dr Cassie Curryer
Mr Ryan Tuckerman
Alexandra Denham

Synopsis

This qualitative research seeks to identify and elucidate different patterns and changes in health among women born between 1921-1926 who have completed Survey 6 and beyond into the 6-monthly surveys, as seen from the women’s perspective. Analysis will be according to (a) Women classified into four contrasting groups according to their self-rated health, and (b) Women classified into groups according to subjective, functional and disease measures. In both cases, random samples of women who provided free text comments on the back pages of their surveys will be selected from each group and these comments will be analysed for content and against theories of salutogenesis and ageing in older women. The theory is that women who have a positive outlook, who have a sense that life has meaning and order, as well as good personal skills and social resources will experience ageing more positively, and hence will have better physical and mental health outcomes.