UNDERSTANDING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COPING STYLES AND DEATH ANXIETY IN OLDER ADULTS

Abstract Research suggests that death anxiety stems from fear of pain, worry about loved ones, and uncertainty what comes after death. Understanding the relationship between coping styles attitudes towards in older adults may help identify individuals who need support with anxiety. This study explored relationships (active, disengaged, social) (fear, avoidance). We used Death Attitude Profile Revised three subscales Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE) Inventory. conducted linear regressions determine which were associated avoidance. In post-hoc analyses, we investigated role spirituality-based as a two-item subscale active scale. All models controlled for age, sex, marital educational status. The sample included 87 community-dwelling (Mage=72.72 (SD=5.88); 56.32% female; 86.21% White). Higher levels disengaged significantly greater avoidance (p < .05). Use social was less (β = -.10, p Spirituality-focused lower Disengaged indicate higher anxiety, whereas spirituality strategies Our findings have implications identifying extra during critical points healthcare process. They also inform design implementation psychosocial interventions communication goals context serious or terminal illness.