Daily Affect Dynamics in Very Old Age Across Time: The Role of Vulnerabilities But Also Strengths

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Denis Gerstorf, since 8/2025; Professor Dr. Oliver Karl Schilling; Professor Dr. Hans-Werner Wahl
• Subject Area: Developmental and Educational Psychology
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 545793017

Very old age, often referred to as the "fourth age", is frequently characterized as a phase of life of increased vulnerability. However, life-span psychology postulates that vulnerabilities and strengths occur together over the entire lifespan, even in very old age. This project aims to investigate both strengths and vulnerabilities in very old age and to shed light on their influence on affective experience, stress reactivity and stress regulation in the everyday life of very old adults. We will examine 3 samples of very old adults (80 years and older; n = 360), distributed over the locations Berlin, Heidelberg and Luxembourg. At three measurement points in 6-month intervals, the study participants will report on their resources, risk factors, health, and well-being with the help of interviews. In addition, participants will take part in a 7-day "ecological momentary assessment" at each of these three measurement points, through which will collect detailed information on the dynamics of stress reactivity, but also on positive experiences and the role of strengths and vulnerabilities in the everyday lives of the very old.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Luxembourg
• Partner Organisation: Fonds National de la Recherche
• Cooperation Partner: Professorin Anna Kornadt, Ph.D.
• Ehemaliger Antragsteller: Markus Wettstein, Ph.D., until 7/2025