Low Self-Esteem in Older adults / Seniors

Key things to know What the evidence shows
How common is it? Not established globally; one Indian community sample reported 45.5% classified as low self-esteem, but local cut-off/sample only
Is it more common among older adults / seniors? Self-esteem changes across later life and may decline with health/function loss
Are older adults / seniors at higher risk? #N/A
How much higher is the risk? Longitudinal evidence links lower self-esteem with increasing morbidity and declining function
How often can it be missed? #N/A
Does it show up differently among older adults / seniors? Strong Yes
How might it look different? Loss of health, independence, role, work identity or social connection can erode self-worth; distinguish from depression
What commonly occurs alongside it? #N/A
What can it be confused with? MDD; grief; cognitive decline; loss-related adjustment
Common screening tool RSES — Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale
Separate screening tool for older adults / seniors None
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