Exploring Self-Compassion in Older Adults: a systematic review

Abstract

The present study sought to synthesize available evidence on the role of self-compassion in elders aged 60 or above and its potential implications during the process of aging. A systematic review was conducted in order to search for empirical scientific articles with quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods with a focus on self-compassion in samples with elders aged 60 years or more. Searches were carried out in the Psycinfo, Scopus, Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane databases, without limit of time. After the application of including and excluding criteria, 11 articles were considered eligible for this review, with all presenting good methodological quality. Self-compassion was found to be a promising skill that can promote healthy psychosocial aging, enabling a better adjustment to changes associated with aging. Such results contribute to the development of new mental health intervention protocols, especially in the field of psychogerontology. There is a need for more longitudinal research and investment in the development of specific interventions for this age group.