LEARN HOW UNIVERSAL DRIVERS

ARE LINKED TO BETTER MENTAL HEALTH

Developed in spring 2021, this study investigates the extent to which older adults’ universal psychological drivers of autonomy, affiliation, and achievement (the 3 As) were being met during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research brief explores whether there was a relationship between these needs and mental health, and between these three needs and wellness. Findings reveal that the 3 As are associated with important mental health and wellness outcomes.

IN THIS RESEARCH BRIEF, YOU’LL LEARN:
  • the relationship between the 3 As and mental health, including COVID-19-related mental health concerns
  • the associations between the 3 As and emotional, social, intellectual, spiritual, physical, and vocational wellness
  • strategies for supporting the mental health of older adults by increasing their feelings of autonomy, achievement, and affiliation

FROM THIS RESEARCH BRIEF:

“The degree to which older adults experience autonomy seems to be particularly important to mental health, as findings indicate that a greater sense of autonomy is associated with four out of five mental health indicators.”

three as report
DOWNLOAD YOUR COPY OF THIS RESEARCH REPORT:

AUTONOMY, AFFILIATION & ACHIEVEMENT

The “3 As” & Older Adults’ Mental Health & Well-Being