Processing Uncertainty in Aging

Uncertainty can be a difficult and uncomfortable experience for people of all ages, but it can be especially challenging for older individuals who may be facing a variety of physical and mental health changes as they age. In fact, uncertainty can have a significant impact on mental health and overall well-being in older adults.

One of the key ways that uncertainty can affect mental health is by increasing feelings of anxiety and stress. When people are faced with uncertainty, they may feel uncertain about the future and what it will bring, and this can lead to increased levels of anxiety and stress. This can be particularly challenging for older adults who may already be dealing with other stressors, such as declining physical health or financial concerns.

Uncertainty can also lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. When people are unsure about what the future holds, they may feel less connected to others and more isolated. This can be especially true for older adults who may be experiencing changes in their social connections and support systems as they age.

In addition to the emotional impact of uncertainty, it can also have practical consequences for older adults. For example, uncertainty about the future can make it difficult for older adults to make decisions about their care and financial planning. This can lead to increased stress and anxiety as they try to navigate these complex issues.

Overall, older adults need to address uncertainty and find ways to manage it to maintain their mental health and well-being. This can include seeking support from friends, family, and mental health professionals, finding ways to stay connected with others and developing coping strategies to manage feelings of anxiety and stress. By addressing uncertainty and finding ways to manage it, older adults can maintain their mental health and well-being as they age.

​

Currently available Projects:

>>Neurocognitive mechanisms of processing uncertainty and ambiguity in aging

>>The role of amygdala subfields in processing emotional cues and ambiguous cues 

>>Relationship between self-reported psychopathology, daily-life emotional sampling and neural networks underlying emotional cues

​