This study investigated the relationships among gender role and self-reported health functioning in a sample of community dwelling older adults. One hundred and two (55 female, 47 male) participants were recruited through seniors' associations in Windsor, Ontario. Analyses of variance were conducted separately by gender to compare the self-rated physical health functioning, wellness, and life satisfaction of participants differing on classification of their gender role. For older women classified as androgynous, gender role exhibited significant effects on general wellness and life satisfaction, but not on self-reported physical health functioning. In support of Bem's androgyny model of optimal adjustment, post-hoc analyses revealed that women who rated themselves as androgynous reported better overall wellness levels than their peers. Older men's self-reported physical health functioning and general wellness did not differ significantly by gender role. Limitations and implications are discussed.

Data from 30 cognitively intact and emotionally stable Canadian elders provided support for the construct validity of the Hopemont Capacity Assessment Instrument and the Independent Living Scales. Subscale scores in the health or financial domains on these two capacity-related instruments were moderately correlated; weaker correlations were observed between ILS and HCAI subscales tapping discrepant domains. Training in thinking aloud and responding to hypothetical questions did not affect scores on these measures, nor were scores on brief depression and anxiety scales statistically associated with standing on capacity-related measures. Reading comprehension was associated with scores on the Hopemont Capacity Assessment Instrument.