Abstract
With ageing, the immune system does not function as well as it did earlier in life, leaving individuals open to a range of diseases including infections. Negative psychological factors such as stress and depression can worsen immunity, and in some cases, this is particularly the case among older adults. However, there are also positive psychological factors that have been shown to relate to positive immune and health outcomes. This chapter will outline the links between psychological and behavioural factors and the immune system, particularly in the context of ageing. It will focus on key positive and negative psychological factors that can boost or be detrimental to our immunity, and briefly touch on the mechanisms by which these factors influence immunity and health in later life.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Title of host publication | Psychologies of Ageing. |
Subtitle of host publication | Theory, Research and Practice |
Editors | Elizabeth Peel, Carol Holland, Michael Murray |
Place of Publication | Basingstoke |
Publisher | Palgrave Macmillan |
Chapter | 5 |
Pages | 107-130 |
Edition | 1 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9783319970349 |
ISBN (Print) | 9783319970332 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 14 Oct 2018 |
Keywords
- ageing
- bereavement
- caregiving
- cortisol:DHEAS ratio
- immunity
- life events
- neutrophils
- social support
- stress
- vaccination