The fear of old age: a survey of adults in the UK

Increases in life expectancy have contributed to the growing numbers of older adults in our society. There has been a corresponding increase in ageism with many people holding negative attitudes toward older adults and old age. This can result in poor outcomes both for older adults themselves and for those who espouse those attitudes. Older adults may be ostracized, whilst those who hold negative attitudes are more likely to experience poor physical and mental health as they age. This is detrimental not only to individuals but also to society. A survey of adults (n = 3252) aged between 35 and 75 in the UK was conducted to explore the prevalence of the fear of old age, attitudes toward it and factors that influence it. Results showed high levels of fear, influenced by the demographic variables of gender, age, health and parenthood as well as personality traits, religious faith and contact with older people. Previous research, suggesting that being a younger adult, being female, being high in neuroticism and being in poor health predicted high levels of fear, was supported. Other factors that were expected to mitigate the fear of old age – having regular contact with older adults, being a parent and holding religious beliefs – were found to increase it. It was concluded that further research is needed to explore these findings further.