Project

SSDP – Health and Functioning in New Midlife Adults

Project Description

This study seeks to better understand significant life transitions among those now in midlife, about ages 40 to 60. Age-related changes in family, work, and community life can be positive for some, but many experience emotional challenges, physical health declines, and high stress in adapting to new social roles. Little is known, however, about how midlife may be different for those currently in their 40s and 50s—often labeled Generation X—who are much more diverse demographically and in their family formation and education/career paths than prior generations. There is a particular need to better understand the rise in alcohol misuse in new midlife cohorts and its central role in midlife health and “deaths of despair.” The study capitalizes on a unique opportunity to examine a diverse study cohort now in midlife that has been followed longitudinally as part of the Seattle Social Development Project (SSDP). Since age 10, SSDP participants have been interviewed several times throughout adolescence and adulthood and asked about their alcohol and other substance use, mental and physical health, and functioning in school, work, community, and civic life. The study has maintained a strong focus throughout on social and neighborhood factors that can be effectively targeted with preventive interventions to reduce health risks and disparities. A new survey focusing on midlife experiences will be conducted at age 47. The goals of the new study are to better understand the unique health risks for those currently in midlife, the role of current and past alcohol use in these risks, and implications for interventions to address public health priorities for new midlife adults.