Change and stability in confidant relationships: Findings from the Bangor Longitudinal Study of Ageing

Treatment of older adults with co‐morbid personality disorder and depression: a dialectical behavior therapy approach

“…It is possible that older adults with PD will feel increased distress as they age due to the accumulation of damaged relationships and other significant losses related to rigid behaviors. Psychopathology notwithstanding, researchers have found that the majority of older adults change confidants over time due to losses through death, disability, and increased dependency (Wenger and Jerrome, 1999). Thus, there are changes and losses in interpersonal relationships associated with aging regardless of psychiatric category and it is likely that these losses are compounded by the presence of PD.…”

Associations between loneliness, depressive symptoms and perceived togetherness in older people

“…The emotional side of social interaction may assume a different meaning than it has for younger people, for whom the existence of an intimate relationship is important (see Mullins et al, 1996). At a more advanced age, practical considerations assume ever greater importance alongside the (Wenger & Jerrome, 1999) are not necessarily as close as the earlier ones were, but they may still be emotionally just as important from the point of view of guaranteeing access to help and providing a sense of security. However, having to rely on help may in itself reduce the sense of emotional togetherness and in that way adversely affect subjective well-being (see Ramos & Wilmoth, 2003).…”

“…The risk for loss of human relations, for instance, is very high at this age (Wenger & Jerrome, 1999). Earlier research has identified a lack of confidential and close relations (Bowling et al, 1989;Salokangas, Mattila, & Joukamaa, 1988), absence of friends (Holmén & Furukawa, 2002;Pahkala, 1990), spousal loss (Heikkinen et al, 1995;Holmén, Ericsson, Andersson, & Winblad, 1992;Pahkala, 1990) and limited social support networks.…”

“…Subjective assessments of social interaction are particularly relevant in studies with older people, for several reasons. For instance, even though they have suffered several losses, older people often find replacements (Wenger & Jerrome, 1999). Children or siblings, for instance, may serve as confidants after the death of a spouse.…”

Family members' perspectives on potential discussions about life prolongation for their older relatives

“…Marital status and parenthood are important factors when choosing confidants to make decisions on their behalf (Wenger & Jerrome, 1999). Having a confidant is associated with improved mental health (Carpiniello et al, 1989;Guarnaccia & Zautra, 1989), combats depression and psychological dis-tress, and may provide social support to older people at the end of life (Allen & Shuster, 2002;Wenger & Jerrome, 1999).…”