This research aims to evaluate psycho-emotional challenges for older adults and the relevance of person-centered therapy (PCT) for older adults.

Forty senior adults, aged above 65 years (M = 71.7; SD = 4.6) were assessed with the the Self-Esteem Scale (‘SES’) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Socio-demographic data, including gender (57.5% women), marital status (37.5% married) and education (39.2% mandatory school) were also assessed. Bivariate associations were performed.

Results yielded a set of five descriptive categories that captured the distinct ways older adults perceived psychoemotional challenges and that reflected the individual's perceived importance of PCT: ‘time perspective’, ‘the aging body’, ‘autonomy and control’, ‘cognitive endurance’ and ‘loss and reminiscing’. Regarding bivariate associations, results indicated that ‘autonomy and control’ was associated with the ‘aging body’ (r=.552, p<.001) and ‘cognitive endurance’ with ‘time perspective’ (r=.425, p<.001). This latter was also associated with ‘loss and reminiscing’ (r=.616, p<.001).

This study highlights the importance of PCT for older adults facing psycho-emotional challenges in old age. Interventions with older adults may benefit from clearly understanding older adults’ specific issues as an important component for promoting successful aging and reducing health disparities.