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Development of reserves over the life course and onset of vulnerability in later life

Author

Listed:
  • Stéphane Cullati

    (Swiss NCCR ‘LIVES — Overcoming Vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives’, University of Geneva
    University of Geneva
    University of Geneva)

  • Matthias Kliegel

    (Swiss NCCR ‘LIVES — Overcoming Vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives’, University of Geneva
    University of Geneva)

  • Eric Widmer

    (Swiss NCCR ‘LIVES — Overcoming Vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives’, University of Geneva
    University of Geneva)

Abstract

This Review develops a theoretical framework for the development and onset of vulnerability in later life based on the concept of reserves. We stress the advantages of using the concept of reserves in interdisciplinary life-course studies, compared with related concepts such as resources and capital. We enrich the definition of vulnerability as a lack of reserves and a reduced capacity of an individual to restore reserves. Two dimensions of reserves, originating from lifespan psychology and gerontology, are of particular importance: their constitution and sustainability by behaviours and interaction with the environment (the ‘use it or lose it’ paradigm) and the presence of thresholds, below which functioning becomes highly challenging. This heuristic approach reveals the potential for a conceptualization of reserves and is exemplified in an empirical illustration. Further interdisciplinary research based on the concept is needed.

Suggested Citation

  • Stéphane Cullati & Matthias Kliegel & Eric Widmer, 2018. "Development of reserves over the life course and onset of vulnerability in later life," Nature Human Behaviour, Nature, vol. 2(8), pages 551-558, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nathum:v:2:y:2018:i:8:d:10.1038_s41562-018-0395-3
    DOI: 10.1038/s41562-018-0395-3
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    Cited by:

    1. Mengling Cheng & Nicolas Sommet & Daniela S. Jopp & Dario Spini, 2023. "Evolution of the income-related gap in health with old age: evidence from 20 countries in European and Chinese panel datasets," European Journal of Ageing, Springer, vol. 20(1), pages 1-11, December.
    2. Sommet, Nicolas & Spini, Dario, 2022. "Financial scarcity undermines health across the globe and the life course," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 292(C).
    3. Guillaume Drevon & Philippe Gerber & Vincent Kaufmann, 2020. "Dealing with Daily Rhythms: Families’ Strategies to Tackle Chronic Time Pressure," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(17), pages 1-21, September.

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