Interpretations of Symptoms by Older People

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Abstract
This article examines interpretations of symptoms experienced by a probability sample of older people living in community settings. Four assessments were included: seriousness, pain or discomfort, interference with desired activities, and causal attributions. Data were collected through structured interviews and daily diaries completed by a probability sample of 667 older people living in a four-county region of upstate New York. Although few respondents believed their symptoms were definitely serious, the majority experienced some uncertainty regarding the potential seriousness of at least one of their symptoms. Three fourths of these respondents incorporated a medical interpretation in explaining their symptoms; medical interpretations, however, were often used in conjunction with a nonmedical interpretation. The analysis indicated that people who experience few symptoms and assess their health positively are more likely to normalize and minimize the potential import of new or unfamiliar symptoms

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