Accommodative coping and preparation for age-related changes: Results from a four-wave panel study

One important function of accommodative coping is to stabilize the quality of life in the face of age-related losses by adjusting control beliefs and action competence. Preparation for age-related changes is an important preventive resource for a higher degree of independence and quality of life in old age. This study examined the longitudinal associations between preparation for age-related changes, facets of accommodative coping (dispositional tendencies in general positive reappraisal, acceptance, downward comparison, reorientation), and goal detachment. Variables were assessed in a four-wave longitudinal study (intervals of approximately 1 year) with a sample of N = 248 adults, aged 30 to 78 years. In line with our hypotheses, latent growth models showed that increases in accommodative coping were associated with increases in preparation for age-related changes (correlations between the slopes). Cross-lagged panel models showed that mainly the change correlations (concurrent changes) remained significant, as compared with the mostly absent cross-lagged paths. The present findings highlight the interplay between proactive life-management strategies that aim to prevent age-related losses and accommodative-coping processes by which goals are adjusted to limitations in action resources. The adaptive role of both strategies and their implications for maximizing quality of life into old age are discussed in light of developmental-regulation models.