Conceptual synthesis of research and theory on activity and aging outcomes

Within social gerontology there is a rich literature that highlights a strong connection between activity participation and key aging outcomes. However, at present, this literature has been insufficiently synthesized. This presentation will provide a conceptual integration of diverse strands of theory and research that pertain to the relationship between activity engagement and the aging outcomes of physical and mental health, life satisfaction, cognitive functioning, and social well-being. A series of analytic summaries will be presented on the following topics: (1) the relationship of the activity construct to relevant or overlapping concerns such as habit or personality; (2) the research results for specific types of activities (e.g., religious activity, social versus solitary activities); (3) the mediating processes that link activity participation to health and well-being; (4) methodological issues in the measurement of activity; and (5) the use of activity principles in developing lifestyle interventions for elders. Based on a model that is currently being tested at the University of Southern California through an R01 grant funded by the National Institute on Aging, the influence of activity on aging outcomes will be explained in terms of a commonly observed pattern of bi-directionally oriented radiating effects that are tied to activity participation. A set of explanatory mediating constructs, including perceived control, coping mechanisms, social support, and changes in stress-related biomarkers will be included within the proposed theoretical framework. The implications of the theoretical synthesis for future research will be presented.