Desired lifetime and end-of-life desires across adulthood from 20 to 90: a dual-source information model.
Lang F, Baltes PB, Wagner GG (2007)
Publication Status: Published
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2007
Journal
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP): Policy B - Oxford Open Option D
Book Volume: 62
Pages Range: P268-76
Volume: 62
Issue: 5
Journal Issue: 5
Abstract
How long do people want to live, and how does scientific research on aging affect such desires? A dual-source information model proposes that aging expectations and desires are informed differently by two sources: personal experiences on the one hand, and scientific and societal influences on the other. Two studies with independent German national samples explored desires regarding length of life and end of life among adults between the ages of 20 and 90. FINDINGS ARE: First, desired lifetime is consistent at around 85 years with few age differences. Second, experimental induction of good or bad news from research on aging has little effect in Study 1. Third, interest in science has moderating effects on desired lifetime in Study 2. Fourth, there is a high prevalence of a strong desire to control the "when and how" of one's death, although only 11% of the individuals completed a living will. Findings are consistent with the dual-source information model.
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Germany (DE)How to cite
APA:
Lang, F., Baltes, P.B., & Wagner, G.G. (2007). Desired lifetime and end-of-life desires across adulthood from 20 to 90: a dual-source information model. Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences, 62(5), P268-76.
MLA:
Lang, Frieder, Paul B. Baltes, and Gert G. Wagner. "Desired lifetime and end-of-life desires across adulthood from 20 to 90: a dual-source information model." Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences 62.5 (2007): P268-76.
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