One in Three People Go Through a Later Life Crisis, a Study Reveals

One person out of three over the age of 60 years experience a later life crisis, and which could have positive or negative outcomes to their wellbeing.

Presented at the British Psychological Society by the University of Greenwich psychologist, Dr. Oliver Robinson, he summarized the study’s findings, in saying, “It seems that when loss-inducing events occur together or in close proximity in time, a person’s capacity to cope in their sixties is overwhelmed and a later life crisis is precipitated. By better understanding such crisis episodes, psychologists are well placed to understand mental health problems in this age group, which may well be affected by the events of a crisis. They will also be better placed offer help to promote positive post-crisis growth.”

With almost 282 respondents participating in an online survey, that was a part of the first phase of the study, almost 33% of males and 32% of females were reported to experience a crisis.

This crisis that each of them had was followed by bereavement, and led to either falling sick, causing injury to themselves or others or caring for a sick, disabled or loved one.

The second phase involved interviews with 20 people who had been through a crisis, which were either two-life changing events, either related to their health or the loss of a family member or a loved one.

Researchers also found that those who showed resilience made an effort to enjoy life in the present while also setting goals. As for those who took it negatively, retreated from the world and isolated themselves in the process.