Psychological predictors of gerascophobia among middle-aged and older adults: the role of health anxiety and body image satisfaction.

Abstract

Gerascophobia-the excessive fear of aging-is linked to health anxiety and negative body perceptions. While health anxiety may heighten aging-related fears, body image satisfaction may buffer this effect. However, their interplay remains underexplored, particularly among community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults not receiving psychological care. This study aims to examine the predictive role of health anxiety on gerascophobia and assess whether body image satisfaction moderates this relationship among middle-aged and older adults. A cross-sectional analytical design was employed involving 539 community-dwelling adults aged 40-65 in Saudi Arabia. Participants completed validated Arabic versions of the Health Anxiety Inventory, Gerascophobia Scale, and Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2). Data were analyzed using correlation and regression analyses, including moderation testing with the PROCESS macro. Health anxiety positively predicted gerascophobia (B = 0.13, p < 0.001), while body image satisfaction was negatively associated (B =  - 0.38, p < 0.001). A significant interaction effect (B =  - 0.12, p < 0.001) indicated that the relationship between health anxiety and gerascophobia was strongest at low levels of body image satisfaction and non-significant at high levels. Body image satisfaction buffers the impact of health anxiety on gerascophobia, emphasizing its protective role. These findings suggest that mental health and nursing professionals should assess and address health anxiety and body image concerns to mitigate aging-related distress and promote emotional resilience in aging populations.