Emotional Regulation in Aging: A Comparative Study of Young and Old Elderly in Urban Settings

Abstract

This study examines how age affects how older people in Ahmedabad, India, regulate their emotions. Specifically, it looks at cognitive reappraisal (CR) and emotional suppression (ES). Data were gathered from a purposive sample of 110 people, divided into two age groups: younger elderly (60–70) and older elderly (71+), using the Emotional Regulation Questionnaire. Independent samples t-tests were used in the quantitative, non-experimental design to evaluate how different groups' approaches to emotional regulation differed. The findings showed no statistically significant age differences in the use of CR and ES, indicating that situational and cultural factors may have a greater influence on emotional regulation than age. The results are consistent with the Selection, Optimization, and Compensation (SOC) Theory, which holds that people modify their emotional tactics in response to social and cognitive resources rather than just age. These findings suggest that to promote emotional well-being in metropolitan senior populations, culturally appropriate mental health treatments are required, such as recreational facilities under medical supervision and psychoeducational initiatives. It is advised that these processes be investigated in various cultural contexts in future studies.