Attachment in old age: Theoretical assumptions, empirical findings and implications for clinical practice

► Attachment as biobehavioral system offers a valuable perspective on aging. ► We provide a qualitative review of empirical research from 1983 to 2012. ► Number and type of attachment figures, but also quality of attachment alter. ► Attachment has an impact on psychosocial functioning in old age. ► Methodological limitations preclude drawing strong conclusions.