Couple Relationships in the Middle and Later Years: Their Nature, Complexity, and Role in Health and Illness

Couple Relationships in the Middle and Later Years: Their Nature, Complexity, and Role in Health and Illness
ISBN-10
1433822091
ISBN-13
9781433822094
Category
Psychology
Language
English
Published
2016
Publisher
American Psychological Association (APA)
Author
Jamila Bookwala

Description

Today's older couples often look and function differently than those of yesteryear. Lifespans have increased, while many health challenges remain. Retirement, spousal role equity, and family caregiving needs look different now, and cultural shifts have shaped the prevalence and visibility of non-traditional older relationships, such as same-sex relationships and ""living apart-together"" relationships. With such an increased variety in relationship forms and social contexts, what does the research say about quality? What factors influence the nature and quality of today's older couple relationships, and what are the complex links between relationships and health? In this cutting-edge book, the authors present the latest theoretical, methodological, and empirical perspectives in the field of middle-age and older couple relationships. The chapters cover a broad range of topics, including the impact of health concerns, loneliness, chronic disease management, couple negotiation of everyday tasks, and coping across the lifespan. Implications for couples therapy and policy are included. In short, the book makes a significant stride into understanding the strengths and challenges of older couples.

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