Conceptualizing and measuring psychological resilience in the context of physical limitations in later life: a scoping review

Abstract

Objective Psychological resilience may support adaptation to physical limitations, but definitions and measures vary. This scoping review examined how psychological resilience has been conceptualized and measured among older adults, focusing on studies addressing physical limitations or functioning. It also synthesized factors and outcomes associated with resilience.Methods PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science were searched for English-language studies published between 2005 and 2025. Reporting followed PRISMA-ScR, and 17 studies met inclusion criteria.Results Although resilience was often described as a dynamic process shaped by personal, social, and environmental circumstances, most studies assessed it once using an individual-level scale, most often the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale or the Brief Resilience Scale. Few examined change or recovery following the onset of physical limitations. Social support, optimism, community participation, and health-promoting behaviors were associated with higher resilience, whereas social isolation, greater functional limitation, and hopelessness were associated with lower resilience. Higher resilience was associated with better mental health, quality of life, and functional adaptation.Conclusion Research largely relied on individual-level, single-timepoint measures despite defining resilience as dynamic and contextual. Longitudinal studies distinguishing resilience from its determinants and outcomes are needed to understand adaptation over time among older adults with physical limitations.