Ms Annabel Battersby completed a Masters in Clinical Psychology at the University of Melbourne, focusing on well-being in older adults.  In her research she examined meaning in life, life satisfaction and emotions in adults aged between 65 and 95 years, presenting the findings at the Australian Association for Gerontology and Psychology and Ageing Interest Group conferences.   Until recently, Annabel worked in aged psychiatry for Melbourne Health as a clinical psychologist in the Aged Person’s Mental Health Program, working in both the in-patient unit and community treatment team. Annabel has also worked in private practice in aged care facilities as well as in consulting rooms with clients of all ages. Annabel has worked since 2014 as a presenter for the APS Study Group Network in Victoria and the APS Institute, speaking on the topic of working with older adults to psychologists.

Presentation Title: Life Satisfaction and Meaning in Life after Sixty-Five

Abstract:

Older adults report higher levels of presence of Meaning in Life than younger adults, and have also been found to be “happier” – reporting less negative emotions, greater well-being and higher life satisfaction. Why would meaning in life be greater as we get older? How can older adults be happier, given the difficulties of older adulthood. Findings from research with older adults aged 65- 95 years will be presented and discussed to expand on the surprising changes in our socio-emotional lives at this stage of the adult lifespan.