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For a better me? Or for a better us? Perceived utilities of aging preparatory activities and positive future thinking in Germany, USA and Hong Kong

Author

Listed:
  • Yaeji Kim-Knauss

    (Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg)

  • Frieder R. Lang

    (Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg)

  • Margund K. Rohr

    (University of Leipzig
    Evangelische Hochschule Dresden)

  • Helene H. Fung

    (Chinese University of Hong Kong)

Abstract

Engaging in aging preparatory activities that is perceived to be utile for oneself (e.g., to retain autonomy and independence) and for others (e.g., to retain a harmonious relationship with important others) may have a functional effect on one’s aging process. We examined how perceived self- and other-related utilities of aging preparatory activities were associated with positive future thinking across adulthood, and whether these associations differed by culture. Building upon cross-sectional data from a web-based study conducted in Hong Kong (n = 283, Mage = 55.12, aged 18–85 years), the USA (n = 264, Mage = 51.06, aged 20–85 years) and Germany (n = 402, Mage = 51.65, aged 19–90 years), we observed different patterns of associations across these three cultures. Perceiving self-related utilities was linked to positive future thinking in the USA and Germany, but not in Hong Kong. In contrast, perceiving other-related utilities of aging preparatory activities was positively associated with future thinking in Hong Kong, but not in the USA or Germany. Perceived risks, on the other hand, showed a negative association with positive future thinking across all cultures. Findings suggest that there might be a culture-specific tendency for individuals to appraise their future, based on their perceived self- or other-related utilities of aging preparatory activities.

Suggested Citation

  • Yaeji Kim-Knauss & Frieder R. Lang & Margund K. Rohr & Helene H. Fung, 2020. "For a better me? Or for a better us? Perceived utilities of aging preparatory activities and positive future thinking in Germany, USA and Hong Kong," European Journal of Ageing, Springer, vol. 17(3), pages 259-269, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:eujoag:v:17:y:2020:i:3:d:10.1007_s10433-019-00530-0
    DOI: 10.1007/s10433-019-00530-0
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    1. Margund K. Rohr & Frieder R. Lang, 2016. "The Role of Anticipated Gains and Losses on Preferences About Future Caregiving," The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, The Gerontological Society of America, vol. 71(3), pages 405-414.
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