Ageing and Reserves

Abstract

In this chapter we elaborate on our conceptual view on vulnerability being the result of insufficient reserve build-up across the life course in various domains (e.g., cognitive reserve and relational reserve). Specifically, we propose that certain individuals are more vulnerable (than other, less vulnerable individuals) to impairments in human functioning because of insufficient reserves accumulated over their life course, which consequently exposes those individuals to greater difficulty to deal with threatening situations in old age in order to offset or prevent negative outcomes. To illustrate our novel perspective with empirical examples, we focus on cognitive and relational reserve domains and their role for cognitive health and well-being as aging outcomes. First, we elaborate on the build-up of these reserve domains across the life course, with a special focus on inter-individual differences in the pathways of reserve accumulation. Second, we concentrate on the role of reserves for human functioning in different groups of vulnerable individuals in old age. Third, we elaborate on the interplay of different reserve domains and their potential joint effects on aging outcomes. Finally, we conclude with an outlook for future research.

Relationship Between Health Literacy and Unhealthy Lifestyle Behaviours in Older Adults Living in Switzerland: Does Social Connectedness Matter?

“…Our findings, which indicate a stronger positive association between inadequate health literacy and the number of prevalent unhealthy lifestyle behaviours among socially isolated respondents, are consistent with the theory that health outcomes, health-related behaviours, and health literacy should be placed in the context of the personal and socio-physical environments of individuals [ 47 ]. Building on the theory of social capital introduced by Bourdieu in the 80s [ 48 ], recent conceptual frameworks have notably focused on the importance of “social reserve,” referring to the accumulated social resources that individuals possess, which can act as a buffer during times of adversity or stress, promoting better health outcomes in older age [ 49 , 50 ]. Studies focusing specifically on the interplay between social context and health literacy have suggested that health literacy functions more as a social practice than simply an individual competence [ 26 , 27 ].…”

“…Building on the theory of social capital introduced by Bourdieu in the 80s [48], recent conceptual frameworks have notably focused on the importance of "social reserve," referring to the accumulated social resources that individuals possess, which can act as a buffer during times of adversity or stress, promoting better health outcomes in older age [49,50]. Studies focusing specifically on the interplay between social context and health literacy have suggested that health literacy functions more as a social practice than simply an individual competence [26,27].…”

Introductory Chapter: Healthy Aging, Physical Activity, Functional Fitness, Cognitive Function, and Assisted Living Technologies – The Ground for the Sustainability of Health and Quality of Life in Older People

“…People who manage to maintain a certain level of functional fitness gain some protection concerning various health conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, obesity, cancers), as well as being able to guarantee the execution of activities of daily living in an independent and safe [11][12][13]. Additionally, benefits at the psychological level are also evident, especially concerning emotional well-being, increased cognitive function, and a high perception of quality of life [14].…”