Examining the associations between emotionally charged reactions toward climate change and self-care, quality of life among older adults, coping mechanisms, and pro-environmental practices

Aim

To examine the associations between emotionally charged reactions to climate change, self-care, quality of life among older adults, coping mechanisms, and pro-environmental practices.

Background

Older adults often face unique challenges in coping with climate change and its detrimental effect on self-care and quality of life. They may be particularly vulnerable to this pressing global issue.

Method

A multi-center, descriptive, correlational approach from three governorates in Egypt. A convenience sample of 609 older adults answered the Inventory of Climate Emotions, the Older People's Quality of Life-Brief, the Self-care Ability Scale for the Elderly, the Pro-Environmental Practices Assessment, and the Coping Scale with Climate Change.

Results

The overall emotionally charged reactions to the idea of climate change showed a negative correlation with both the older adults’ QoL total score (r = -.762) and the Self-care Ability Scale (r = -.775), yet a positive correlation with Pro-environmental Practices (r = .692) and Coping Strategies (r = .992). The regression analyses revealed that emotions explain a substantial variance in the older adult's quality of life (85.6%) and self-care (79.7%), as well as their pro-environmental actions (72%) and coping strategies (38.8%).

Recommendations and implications

The research underscores climate change's significant emotional and psychological ramifications on older adults, yielding valuable insights for geriatric nursing practice. The findings can facilitate the development of precise interventions to promote self-care, bolster coping strategies, and advocate for pro-environmental conduct among older adults. Understanding these associations can contribute to the enhancement of quality of life and the fortification of resilience. The research implications may offer pivotal guidance for geriatric nursing education, clinical protocols, and community initiatives dedicated to fortifying older adults' mental well-being, contending with the repercussions of climate change.