Salutogenesis and the Sense of Coherence in Middle Adulthood

Abstract

In this chapter, the authors focus on the transition from middle to late adulthood. The questions of when and how past transitions affect subsequent ageing is discussed. Whilst middle age was long considered undramatic, the authors state that it is increasingly gaining profile. They focus on a phase typically observed in the sixth decade of life, characterized by the initiation of the transition to de-professionalization and change of responsibilities within the family when crisis and chronic situations can lead to the need for help from health professionals.

The authors deliberate on how a dialogue between middle-aged adults and professionals can contribute positively to the naming, modification, design and further development of health goals, linking physiological and unconscious processes to the theory of salutogenesis.

Notably, the authors frame illness processes from the perspective of salutogenic resources, also discussing the benefits of crises experienced in middle adulthood.

The authors’ novel ideas about a salutogenic perspective on life in middle adulthood will inspire researchers and practitioners to a more innovative approach to this large segment of society.