Psychological Flexibility in Older Adulthood: a Scoping Review

Objectives: Psychological flexibility/inflexibility (PF/PI) is a core component of the acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) model, which is gaining more attention in the geropsychological literature. This scoping review examines the size and scope of the research on PF/PI in older adulthood related to age differences between older adult and younger samples, correlates relevant to psychological health, and changes with ACT.

Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO. Peer-reviewed articles available in English were included that: had a mean age ≥65 a minimum age ≥60; and reported self-report measures of PF/PI. We categorized PF/PI into three domains: open, aware, and engaged.

Results: Forty-six articles were included. Most studies measured open or aware domains; few measured the engaged domain. Older adults evidenced greater awareness compared to younger adults (9 of 13 analyses were significant). Openness and awareness consistently yielded medium to large correlations with anxiety and depression. PF/PI did not relate with positive affect and inconsistently correlated with quality of life measures.

Conclusion: Despite emerging trends, variability and limitations were evident in the literature. Specifically, measurement issues, lack of conceptual clarity, and the omission of values and behavioral measures require future attention.