Perceived motor ability and selection, optimization, and compensation: Effects of age and institutionalization

Abstract

The authors examined the mediation effect of the perceived motor ability (PMA) on the direct “effects” of age (third vs. fourth age) and residential status (institutionalized vs. communitarians) on selection, optimization, and compensation (SOC) strategies. With a non-probabilistic sample of 107 elders (Mdn = 80 years) from urban areas, and controlled for cognitive impairment and depression, the authors analysed the structural component of the path model with latent constructs that represents those relationships. This was made only after the structural validity of the constructs had been assured. Constructs were operationalized through the PMA questionnaire and a 16-item version of the SOC questionnaire. Only age had direct effects on the constructs: lower PMA and lower SOC of the elders in the fourth age. Authors also verified that the PMA mediation effect was partial.