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Liang W, Wang Y, Su N, Song H, Rhodes RE, Wang X, Shang B, Zhou L, Huang Q, Bu D, Baker JS, Duan Y. Associations of Reallocating Sedentary Time to Physical Activity and Sleep with Physical and Mental Health of Older Adults. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2024; 56:1935-1944. [PMID: 38934491 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Twenty-four-hour movement behaviors: moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), light physical activity (LPA), sedentary behavior (SB), and sleep are crucial factors affecting older adults' health. Using a compositional data analysis approach, this study examined the associations of time spent in these four movement behaviors with cardiometabolic health, physical fitness, and mental health among older adults. Furthermore, this study identified the estimated changes in aforementioned health outcomes by reallocating SB time to other movement behaviors. METHODS A population-based cross-sectional study of 4562 participants (67.68 ± 5.03 yr; 55.8% female) were implemented in Hubei China between July 25 and November 19, 2020. Measures included demographics, movement behaviors, cardiometabolic indicators (body mass index, waist circumference, waist-hip ratio, percentage body fat, systolic and diastolic blood pressure), physical fitness, and mental health outcomes (depressive symptoms and loneliness). Compositional data analyses were implemented in R. RESULTS MVPA and sleep time were associated with greater health outcomes (all P < 0.001), except blood pressure ( P = 0.13-0.83). LPA time was associated with waist circumference ( B = 0.313, P = 0.009), waist-hip ratio ( B = 0.003, P = 0.003), physical fitness ( B = 0.36, P < 0.001), and mental health indicators (both P < 0.001). Reallocating 30-min SB to MVPA and sleep was associated with predicated improvements in all health outcomes, except blood pressure, whereas reallocating 30-min SB to LPA resulted in predicted improvements in physical fitness (0.187 units), depressive symptoms (-0.264 units), and loneliness (-0.395 units). For dose-effect relationships, reallocating 5-60 min of SB to MVPA showed greatest benefits for all health outcomes. CONCLUSIONS This study provides timely empirical evidence for future interventions and policymaking on promoting healthy aging during the post-COVID-19 era. The findings underline the importance of including 24-h movement behaviors in future health promotion among older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liang
- School of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, CHINA
| | - Yanping Wang
- Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, CHINA
| | - Ning Su
- School of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, CHINA
| | - Huiqi Song
- Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, CHINA
| | - Ryan E Rhodes
- School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, University of Victoria, CANADA
| | - Xiang Wang
- Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, CHINA
| | - Borui Shang
- Department of Social Sciences, Hebei Sports University, Shijiazhuang, CHINA
| | - Lin Zhou
- School of Physical Education, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, CHINA
| | - Qian Huang
- Fitness and Health Lab, Hubei Institute of Sport Science, Wuhan, CHINA
| | - Danran Bu
- Fitness and Health Lab, Hubei Institute of Sport Science, Wuhan, CHINA
| | - Julien S Baker
- Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, CHINA
| | - Yanping Duan
- Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, CHINA
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Lee CD, Kim H, Cooper R, Beach SR. Changes in Caregiver Burden in Older Adults' Caregivers During the COVID-19 Outbreak. OTJR-OCCUPATION PARTICIPATION AND HEALTH 2024; 44:642-651. [PMID: 38006242 DOI: 10.1177/15394492231214961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the changes in caregiver burden during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The study sample included 827 caregivers for older adults (65+) from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) COVID-19 data set. We used paired t-tests to analyze data. The caregivers' assistance in basic and instrumental activities of daily living for care recipients, as well as the amount of time they provided, increased significantly (all ps < .001) during the pandemic compared with before. Approximately, 40% of caregivers reported changes in the amount of assistance they provided during the pandemic. Financial, emotional, and physical difficulties among caregivers have increased, with emotional difficulties being the most frequently reported. The majority of caregivers reported not utilizing any social services during the pandemic. The pandemic may have heightened the caregiver burden. It is important to ensure that caregivers have access to and utilize social services in a physically and psychologically safe manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Dae Lee
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, PA, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Hansol Kim
- National Rehabilitation Research & Training Center on Family Support, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rosemarie Cooper
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System, PA, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Scott R Beach
- National Rehabilitation Research & Training Center on Family Support, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- University Center for Social and Urban Research, University of Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Baniah Lafee Alzaben M, Yousef Alnaimi ST, Farhan Almahaireh AS, Al-Dalaeen AS, Alkhawaldeh MK, Al Nuaimat AM. The Predictive Ability of the Existential Vacuum and Death Anxiety in Psychological Hardiness Among Elderly. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2024; 89:1669-1690. [PMID: 37192525 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231176307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
This research paper aimed to identify the level of psychological hardiness, the level of death anxiety, and the level of existential vacuum among the elderly, also the role of the predictive ability of death anxiety and existential vacuum in the psychological hardiness of the elderly at the governorates of Tafilyah and Ma'an in light of the Corona pandemic in Jordan. The descriptive-analytical approach was utilized. sample consists (500) elderly, that were selected by a simple random approach. Then the needed statistical measure was operated to achieve the required results. The results indicated a low level of psychological hardiness, a high level of death anxiety, and an existential vacuum in the elderly. The results show a suitable predictive ability for each of death anxiety and the existential vacuum in reducing psychological hardiness. The research paper recommended the necessity of rehabilitating the elderly in Jordan regarding the mental and psychological aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anas Saleh Al-Dalaeen
- Department of Counseling and Special Education, Faculty of Educational Sciences, Mutah University, Jordan
| | | | - Alia Mari Al Nuaimat
- Faculty of Arts and Science - Department of Psychology, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Jordan
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Kim E, Yeo H, Choi YJ. The impact of resilience and coping strategies on depressive symptoms among Korean American older adults during COVID-19. Aging Ment Health 2024:1-9. [PMID: 39192708 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2024.2396554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examined how resilience and coping strategies were associated with depressive symptoms among Korean American older adults during COVID-19. The prevalent depressive symptoms and low use of mental health services in this population have raised significant concerns among healthcare professionals. Therefore, this study aims to understand the relationships between resilience and coping types on depressive symptoms and provide valuable insights into addressing these issues within this ethnic group. METHOD A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 132 Korean American older adults. Hierarchical linear regression analyses were performed to assess the effect of sociodemographic factors (age, gender, marital status, years of living in the U.S., self-rated health, financial security), resilience, and coping strategies (problem-focused coping, emotion-focused coping, avoidant coping) on depressive symptoms. Next, the interactions between resilience and three coping strategies for depressive symptoms were tested. RESULTS The findings show that depressive symptoms were associated with financial security and avoidant coping. Also, resilience interacted with avoidant coping and emotion-focused coping. Among the participants with low resilience, depressive symptoms increased rapidly when avoidant and emotion-focused coping strategies increased, respectively. CONCLUSION This study emphasizes the importance of culturally tailored interventions to promote resilience and decrease avoidant and emotion-focused coping among Korean American older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunhye Kim
- Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Department of Social Sciences, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Hyesu Yeo
- School of Social Work, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Y Joon Choi
- School of Social Work, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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5
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Kim JI, Kim G. Exploring Subjective Mental Health Change in Older Adults after Experiencing an Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) -Based Natural Environment. J Appl Gerontol 2024:7334648241272042. [PMID: 39150382 DOI: 10.1177/07334648241272042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The study explored subjective mental health change in adults aged 60 to 100 by experiencing immersive virtual reality (IVR)-based on the natural environment. It investigated changes in thinking, behaviour, and emotions from a socioecological perspective. The study conducted quantitative surveys of 540 older adults via IVR who lived in 20 longevity villages in South Korea from Dec. 2022 to Nov. 2023. It also paralleled a qualitative study with 38 of the 540. Study results predicting subjective mental health changes after experiencing IVR in those over 70 showed the highest gladness and happiness. In over 70 compared with 60 to 69 ages, the study found that relieving stress and depression, gladness and happiness, and relaxing the mind have about two-fold subjective mental health changes after experiencing IVR. The study suggests that it can be utilized to promote subjective mental health through the experience of an IVR-based natural environment for older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong In Kim
- Faculty of Health and Welfare, Wonkwang University, Iksan, Republic of Korea
- Korean Society of Health and Welfare, Republic of Korea
| | - Gukbin Kim
- Global Management of Natural Resources, University College London, London, UK
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6
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Ferrario A, Sedlakova J, Trachsel M. The Role of Humanization and Robustness of Large Language Models in Conversational Artificial Intelligence for Individuals With Depression: A Critical Analysis. JMIR Ment Health 2024; 11:e56569. [PMID: 38958218 PMCID: PMC11231450 DOI: 10.2196/56569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Unlabelled Large language model (LLM)-powered services are gaining popularity in various applications due to their exceptional performance in many tasks, such as sentiment analysis and answering questions. Recently, research has been exploring their potential use in digital health contexts, particularly in the mental health domain. However, implementing LLM-enhanced conversational artificial intelligence (CAI) presents significant ethical, technical, and clinical challenges. In this viewpoint paper, we discuss 2 challenges that affect the use of LLM-enhanced CAI for individuals with mental health issues, focusing on the use case of patients with depression: the tendency to humanize LLM-enhanced CAI and their lack of contextualized robustness. Our approach is interdisciplinary, relying on considerations from philosophy, psychology, and computer science. We argue that the humanization of LLM-enhanced CAI hinges on the reflection of what it means to simulate "human-like" features with LLMs and what role these systems should play in interactions with humans. Further, ensuring the contextualization of the robustness of LLMs requires considering the specificities of language production in individuals with depression, as well as its evolution over time. Finally, we provide a series of recommendations to foster the responsible design and deployment of LLM-enhanced CAI for the therapeutic support of individuals with depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ferrario
- Institute Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Mobiliar Lab for Analytics at ETH, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jana Sedlakova
- Institute Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Digital Society Initiative, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Implementation Science in Health Care, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Manuel Trachsel
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- University Psychiatric Clinics Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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7
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Galarregui C, Navas-Carretero S, Zulet MA, González-Navarro CJ, Martínez JA, de Cuevillas B, Marcos-Pasero H, Aguilar-Aguilar E, Reglero G, Ramirez de Molina A, Chausa P, Iniesta JM, Hernando ME, Gómez EJ, Garcia-Rudolph A, García-Molina A, Loria-Kohen V, Abete I. Precision nutrition impact on metabolic health and quality of life in aging population after a 3-month intervention: A randomized intervention. J Nutr Health Aging 2024; 28:100289. [PMID: 38865737 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnha.2024.100289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Innovative precision dietary procedures are required to promote healthy aging. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a personalised strategy based on the inclusion of individualised foods and digital tools on overall health status and quality of life within a follow-up of 3 months in older adults with overweight or obesity. METHODS 127 men and women aged between 50 and 80 years with overweight/obesity participated in the study-between January 2020 and September 2020 at the Center for Nutrition Research-University of Navarra and IMDEA-ALIMENTACIÓN-and were randomly assigned to a usual-care group (standard recommendations) or precision group (precision nutrition strategy based on the inclusion of individualised foods and a mobile application). Anthropometry, body fat percentage, biochemical parameters, diet, and quality of life (SF-36 Health Survey) were assessed at baseline and after 3 months. RESULTS Both strategies were found to improve overall metabolic health; however, the precision approach demonstrated significantly better outcomes. The precision strategy reduced body weight at 3 months (-4.3 kg; p < 0.001) with significant improvements in body fat percentage, blood pressure and general metabolic health (glycated haemoglobin; alanine aminotransferase; aspartate aminotransferase; hepatic steatosis index) in comparison with the standard recommendations. The precision approach significantly enhanced the quality of life (SF-36) of individuals, with additional improvements in emotional well-being (p = 0.024) and vitality (p = 0.008). Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was significantly associated with a higher quality of life and vitality. CONCLUSION These results support the benefit of precision nutrition approaches for promoting healthy aging and emotional well-being, enhancing the quality of life in aging populations, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Galarregui
- Center for Nutrition Research and Department of Nutrition, Food Sciences and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Santiago Navas-Carretero
- Center for Nutrition Research and Department of Nutrition, Food Sciences and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Biomedical Research Centre Network in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - M Angeles Zulet
- Center for Nutrition Research and Department of Nutrition, Food Sciences and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Biomedical Research Centre Network in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos J González-Navarro
- Center for Nutrition Research and Department of Nutrition, Food Sciences and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - J Alfredo Martínez
- Center for Nutrition Research and Department of Nutrition, Food Sciences and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Biomedical Research Centre Network in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Begoña de Cuevillas
- Center for Nutrition Research and Department of Nutrition, Food Sciences and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Helena Marcos-Pasero
- Nutrition and Clinical Trials Unit, GENYAL Platform IMDEA-Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Aguilar-Aguilar
- Nutrition and Clinical Trials Unit, GENYAL Platform IMDEA-Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Guillermo Reglero
- Nutrition and Clinical Trials Unit, GENYAL Platform IMDEA-Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC, 28049, Madrid, Spain; Department of Production and Characterization of Novel Foods, Institute of Food Science Research (CIAL) CEI UAM+CSIC, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Ramirez de Molina
- Molecular Oncology and Nutritional Genomics of Cancer, IMDEA-Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Chausa
- Biomedical Engineering and Telemedicine Centre, ETSI Telecomunicación, Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose M Iniesta
- Biomedical Engineering and Telemedicine Centre, ETSI Telecomunicación, Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - M Elena Hernando
- Biomedical Engineering and Telemedicine Centre, ETSI Telecomunicación, Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Enrique J Gómez
- Biomedical Engineering and Telemedicine Centre, ETSI Telecomunicación, Center for Biomedical Technology, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; Networking Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Garcia-Rudolph
- Department of Research and Innovation, Institut Guttmann, Institut Universitari De Neurorehabilitació Adscrit a La UAB, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma De Barcelona, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola Del Vallès), Spain; Fundació Institut d'Investigació En Ciències De La Salut Germans Trias I Pujol, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto García-Molina
- Department of Research and Innovation, Institut Guttmann, Institut Universitari De Neurorehabilitació Adscrit a La UAB, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma De Barcelona, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola Del Vallès), Spain; Fundació Institut d'Investigació En Ciències De La Salut Germans Trias I Pujol, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Viviana Loria-Kohen
- Nutrition and Clinical Trials Unit, GENYAL Platform IMDEA-Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Itziar Abete
- Center for Nutrition Research and Department of Nutrition, Food Sciences and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain; Biomedical Research Centre Network in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Liu T, Wang YH, Ng ZLY, Zhang W, Wong SMY, Wong GHY, Lum TYS. Comparison of networks of loneliness, depressive symptoms, and anxiety symptoms in at-risk community-dwelling older adults before and during COVID-19. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14737. [PMID: 38926445 PMCID: PMC11208589 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65533-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Network analysis provides an innovative approach to examining symptom-to-symptom interactions in mental health, and adverse external conditions may change the network structures. This study compared the networks of common risk factors and mental health problems (loneliness, depressive symptoms, and anxiety symptoms) in community-dwelling older people before and during COVID-19. Older adults (aged ≥ 60) at risk for depression were recruited through non-governmental organizations. Loneliness, depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms were measured using the three-item Loneliness Scale (UCLA-3), nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), respectively. Data from 2549 (before) and 3506 (during COVID-19) respondents were included using propensity score matching. Being restless (GAD-7-item5) was most central, indicated by Expected Influence, in both pre and during COVID-19 networks despite low severity (mean score). The network during COVID-19 had higher global strength and edge variability than the pre-pandemic network, suggesting easier symptom spread and potentially more complex symptom presentation. In addition, feeling isolated from others (UCLA-3-item3) had stronger connections with feeling worthless/guilty (PHQ-9-item6) and anticipatory anxiety (GAD-7-item7) during COVID-19 than before. These findings may enhance our knowledge of the symptom structure of common mental health problems and the impacts of the pandemic. Targeting central symptoms may offer novel preventive strategies for older people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyin Liu
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Yun-Han Wang
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zuna Loong Yee Ng
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wen Zhang
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Stephanie Ming Yin Wong
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gloria Hoi-Yan Wong
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Terry Yat-Sang Lum
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Sau Po Centre on Ageing, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Merrill RM, Ashton MK. How Do Mental Disorders and Combinations of Disorders Affect the Odds of Injuries and Poisoning? J Nerv Ment Dis 2024; 212:303-311. [PMID: 38704650 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Injuries and poisoning are associated with mental disorders. The association may be stronger if comorbid mental illness is involved. This study explores whether selected mental disorders (stress, anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD], bipolar, obsessive-compulsive disorder [OCD], schizophrenia) are associated with injuries and poisoning and if the presence and frequency of comorbid mental illness affect these associations. Analyses utilize medical claims data for adult employees of a large corporation during 2017-2021. Approximately half or more of the index mental disorders experience comorbid mental illness. Odds of injury and poisoning are significantly greater for each mental disorder and tend to be significantly greater when comorbid mental illness exists ( vs . the mental disorder alone), especially for the associations involving poisoning. Schizophrenia alone and in combination with other mental illness has the strongest associations with injury and poisoning. OCD is only associated with injury and poisoning, and ADHD is only associated with poisoning, if accompanied by comorbid mental illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ray M Merrill
- Department of Public Health, College of Life Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
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10
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Aßmann ES, Ose J, Hathaway CA, Oswald LB, Hardikar S, Himbert C, Chellam V, Lin T, Daniels B, Kirchhoff AC, Gigic B, Grossman D, Tward J, Varghese TK, Shibata D, Figueiredo JC, Toriola AT, Beck A, Scaife C, Barnes CA, Matsen C, Ma DS, Colman H, Hunt JP, Jones KB, Lee CJ, Larson M, Onega T, Akerley WL, Li CI, Grady WM, Schneider M, Dinkel A, Islam JY, Gonzalez BD, Otto AK, Penedo FJ, Siegel EM, Tworoger SS, Ulrich CM, Peoples AR. Risk factors and health behaviors associated with loneliness among cancer survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Behav Med 2024; 47:405-421. [PMID: 38418709 DOI: 10.1007/s10865-023-00465-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Loneliness may exacerbate poor health outcomes particularly among cancer survivors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is known about the risk factors of loneliness among cancer survivors. We evaluated the risk factors of loneliness in the context of COVID-19 pandemic-related prevention behaviors and lifestyle/psychosocial factors among cancer survivors. Cancer survivors (n = 1471) seen at Huntsman Cancer Institute completed a survey between August-September 2020 evaluating health behaviors, medical care, and psychosocial factors including loneliness during COVID-19 pandemic. Participants were classified into two groups: 'lonely' (sometimes, usually, or always felt lonely in past month) and 'non-lonely' (never or rarely felt lonely in past month). 33% of cancer survivors reported feeling lonely in the past month. Multivariable logistic regression showed female sex, not living with a spouse/partner, poor health status, COVID-19 pandemic-associated lifestyle factors including increased alcohol consumption and marijuana/CBD oil use, and psychosocial stressors such as disruptions in daily life, less social interaction, and higher perceived stress and financial stress were associated with feeling lonely as compared to being non-lonely (all p < 0.05). A significant proportion of participants reported loneliness, which is a serious health risk among vulnerable populations, particularly cancer survivors. Modifiable risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and psychosocial stress were associated with loneliness. These results highlight the need to screen for unhealthy lifestyle factors and psychosocial stressors to identify cancer survivors at increased risk of loneliness and to develop effective management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena S Aßmann
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jennifer Ose
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Cassandra A Hathaway
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, Division of Population Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Laura B Oswald
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Division of Population Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Sheetal Hardikar
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Caroline Himbert
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Tengda Lin
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Anne C Kirchhoff
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Douglas Grossman
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Dermatology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jonathan Tward
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Thomas K Varghese
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - David Shibata
- Department of Surgery, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Jane C Figueiredo
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Adetunji T Toriola
- Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Anna Beck
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Courtney Scaife
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Christopher A Barnes
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Cindy Matsen
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Debra S Ma
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Howard Colman
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Jason P Hunt
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Kevin B Jones
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Catherine J Lee
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Transplant and Cellular Therapy Program, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Tracy Onega
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Wallace L Akerley
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | | | | | - Andreas Dinkel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jessica Y Islam
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, Division of Population Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Brian D Gonzalez
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Division of Population Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Amy K Otto
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Frank J Penedo
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, USA
- Departments of Psychology and Medicine, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Erin M Siegel
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, Division of Population Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Shelley S Tworoger
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, Division of Population Science, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Cornelia M Ulrich
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
| | - Anita R Peoples
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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Karaçar Y, Çaynak S, Boyacıoğlu NE, Meriç M, Öz F. Factors Predicting Mental Health Literacy in Older Adults: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study. J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38709101 DOI: 10.3928/02793695-20240424-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine mental health literacy (MHL) levels of older adults and the predictive factors of MHL. METHOD This cross-sectional study was conducted between October and December 2022, with 410 older adults aged ≥65 years. A Personal Information Form and the Mental Health Literacy Scale were used for data collection. Independent samples t test, analysis of variance, and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the data. RESULTS Significant predictors of MHL in older adults were being aged 65 to 69 years, being female, being a university graduate, having an income more than expenses, receiving information from a health professional, interest in mental health, having friends or family members with mental illness, and good perception of health. CONCLUSION Older adults were found to have low levels of MHL. Mental health professionals should focus on community-based education and interventions to increase the MHL levels of older adults. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, xx(xx), xx-xx.].
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Low G, Gutman G, Gao Z, França AB, von Humboldt S, Vitorino LM, Wilson DM, Allana H. Mentally healthy living after pandemic social distancing: a study of older Canadians reveals helpful anxiety reduction strategies. Psychogeriatrics 2024; 24:605-616. [PMID: 38499385 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.13103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, older Canadians were the most at risk of severe physical harm, including death, and their return to post-COVID life was expected to be especially anxiety-provoking. A study was conducted to obtain nationally representative evidence of older Canadians' self-perceived anxiety levels and their strategies to manage or mitigate it as public health restrictions were lifting. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study had a cross-sectional descriptive design. An e-survey was used to collect data from 1327 Canadians aged 60+ stratified by age, sex, and education to resemble the larger general population. Participants completed the Geriatric Anxiety Scale (GAS-10) and indicated which of the 16 Centre for Addictions and Mental Health's (2022) Coping with Stress and Anxiety strategies they were using to manage or mitigate their anxiety when social distancing was lifting. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis were used to explore the data. RESULTS While, on average, older Canadians were mildly anxious, nearly one-quarter of responders rated their anxiety as severe. Age, sex, perceived health, were statistically significant correlates of anxiety. Six coping strategies were associated with significantly lower anxiety scores. Moreover, accepting some fear and anxiety as normal, challenging worries and anxious thoughts, and practising relaxation/meditation appeared to increase anxiety. CONCLUSION Older Canadians used multiple strategies to manage or mitigate their anxiety, and seemingly, with more successful than detrimental tries. Practitioners have much to learn and understand about older people's mental health promotion efforts after social distancing, now and for future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gail Low
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gloria Gutman
- Department Gerontology, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Zhiwei Gao
- Division of Community Health and Humanities, Memorial University, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Alex Bacadini França
- Laboratory of Human Development and Cognition, Federal University of São Carlos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sofia von Humboldt
- William James Center for Research, ISPA - Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Donna M Wilson
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Hunaina Allana
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Zhou L, Feng C, Lu Y, Zhong LJ, Gao J, Liu N, Lin F, Jiang ZL. Development and validation of health-oriented personal evaluation for the community-dwelling older person based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Int J Older People Nurs 2024; 19:e12609. [PMID: 38622947 DOI: 10.1111/opn.12609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) offers a standardized international terminology to operationalize function management across multiple domains, but the summary score of the ICF qualifier scale provides limited information on the comparison of personal abilities and functioning difficulties. OBJECTIVES To enhance the interpretative power of the ICF-based Health-oriented Personal Evaluation for the community-dwelling older person (iHOPE-OP) scale through the implementation of the item response theory (IRT) modelling. METHODS This cross-sectional, multi-centre study administrated 161 ICF categories (58 on body functions, 15 on body structures, 60 on activities or participation and 28 on environmental factors) to evaluate the functional level of 338 older citizens (female = 158, male = 180) residing in community or supportive living facilities. The validation process encompassed assessing the IRT model fitness and evaluating the psychometric properties of the IRT-derived iHOPE-OP scale. RESULTS The age of participants ranged from 60 to 94.57, with the mean age of 70. The analysis of non-parametric and parametric models revealed that the three-parameter logistic IRT model, with a dichotomous scoring principle, exhibited the best fit. The 53-item iHOPE-OP scale demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach's α = 0.9729, Guttman's lambda-2 = 0.9749, Molenaar-Sijtsma Statistic = 0.9803, latent class reliability coefficient = 0.9882). There was a good validity between person abilities and the Barthel Index (p < .001, r = .83), as well as instrumental activities of daily living (p < .001, r = .84). CONCLUSIONS IRT methods generate the reliable and valid iHOPE-OP scale with the most discriminable and minimal items to represent the older person's functional performance at a comprehensive level. The use of the Wright map can aid in presby-functioning management by visualizing item difficulties and person abilities. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Considering the intricate and heterogeneous health status of older persons, a single functional assessment tool might not fulfil the need to fully understand the multifaceted health status. For use in conjunction with the IRT and ICF framework, the reliable and valid iHOPE-OP scale was developed and can be applied to capture presby-functioning. The Wright map depicts the distribution of item difficulties and person abilities on the same scale that facilitates person-centred goal setting and tailors intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zhou
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Research Institute of Zhejiang Province, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chun Feng
- The Center of Rehabilitation Therapy, The First Rehabilitation Hospital of Shanghai, Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Lu
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li-Juan Zhong
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Gao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Na Liu
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Feng Lin
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhong-Li Jiang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Schafer MH. Social contact during the COVID-19 pandemic: The role of long-term connectedness and cumulative inequality in later life. SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH 2024; 120:103007. [PMID: 38763541 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssresearch.2024.103007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Though the COVID-19 crisis put many older adults at sudden risk of social isolation, the pandemic was far from the "great equalizer" some pundits and politicians initially claimed it would be. Drawing from Cumulative Inequality Theory, I consider how long-run patterns of social dis/connectedness contextualize key disparities in social contact that manifested during the pandemic. I incorporate data from four rounds of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (2005-2021), constructing multiple operationalizations of connectedness accumulation across pre-COVID years and examining several types of social contact during the pandemic, both in-person and remote. Results from ordered logistic regression show that those most durably connected were especially likely to incorporate digital tools for maintaining contact with family and friends. On the other hand, people experiencing more bouts of social disconnection were least likely to see friends during the pandemic, and were yet relatively tolerant of that level of engagement. Even while many older people's level of social dis/connectedness fluctuates over the course of 15 years, it was long-run accumulation patterns-not conditions observed most recently-that best explain their experience of social contact during the pandemic. Findings point to the role of crises in perpetuating and exacerbating key axes of inequality, and suggest points of attention and intervention in COVID's aftermath.
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Zarling A, Kim J, Russell D, Cutrona C. Increasing Older Adults' Social Connectedness: Development and Implementation of a Web-Assisted Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-Based Intervention. JMIR Aging 2024; 7:e47943. [PMID: 38647321 PMCID: PMC11058557 DOI: 10.2196/47943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In this article, we will provide a rationale for a web-assisted acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) approach to loneliness among older adults, drawing upon theories from the literature on adult development and aging, emotion regulation, and loneliness. The intervention program was developed using the principles of ACT, which is a cognitive behavioral approach and unified model of human behavior change and psychological growth. The ACT intervention focuses on developing nonjudgmental present-focused awareness of internal experiences (thoughts, emotions, and memories) through strategies such as acceptance and mindfulness rather than directly modifying or removing them per se. The ACT intervention appears well-suited to assist older adults in coping with the challenges of aging, as the focus is on an individual’s willingness to sit with internal experiences out of one’s control (ie, acceptance), stepping back from negative or critical thoughts and developing greater kindness toward oneself (ie, defusion), discerning what is most important to one’s true self (ie, values), and building larger patterns of effective action based on such values (ie, committed action). The ACT intervention was developed as a resource for older adults who are socially isolated or having difficulty with social connectedness. Eight modules comprise the web-assisted ACT intervention program, which includes reading materials, video clips, and activities. Each module is followed by a summary, a homework assignment, a short quiz to assess learning, and a moderated discussion with a coach. The intervention program begins with reconnecting participants with their values. The goal of the ACT intervention program is to foster flexibility in a participant’s behavior so they can behave consistently with their chosen values, rather than becoming locked into a pattern of behavior that is driven by avoiding distress or discomfort. The ACT intervention approach is both novel and innovative, as it is based on ACT and leverages a behavioral health web platform that is flexible and inclusive in its design. The ACT intervention aims to help older adults become more socially connected, less lonely, and more satisfied with their relationships with other people. The emphasis that ACT places on values and living life in accordance with one’s values renders it an approach ideally suited to older adults. Finally, recommendations for future research regarding this approach to addressing loneliness among older adults is addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amie Zarling
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Joseph Kim
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Daniel Russell
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Carolyn Cutrona
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
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Pereira H, Silva P, Torre RD, dos Santos MR, Moutinho A, Solinho S, Proença C, Cabral J, Santos AJ. Men's Social Connectedness in Later Life: A Qualitative Study with Older Men. Geriatrics (Basel) 2024; 9:53. [PMID: 38667520 PMCID: PMC11050630 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics9020053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to understand men's social connectedness in later life in Portugal focusing on their perceptions, obstacles, strategies, and impact on well-being. The sample included 104 older Portuguese men over 65 years of age (Mage = 70.76 years). The qualitative data were the direct transcriptions of the answers given by participants to the electronic interview using thematic analysis. Findings revealed six overarching themes encompassing 18 subcategories: definitions of social connectedness (social support, community identity, mental health promotion, use of community structures), difficulties/obstacles in maintaining social connectedness (ageism, lack of initiative, physical limitations, psychological traits, resources), strategies/actions or resources to establish social connections (use of technology, use of community groups, leisure and sport activities, church/religion), negative impact of difficulties in establishing relevant social connections (mental health, physical health, relationships), positive actions from being socially connected (positive prescriptions to promote social connectedness), and concerns from being socially disconnected (health risks). These findings indicate that the lack of social connectedness creates social vulnerability in later life, and social support is needed to ensure safer aging among older men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrique Pereira
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Patricia Silva
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Renata Della Torre
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Marta Rosário dos Santos
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Adriana Moutinho
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Sofia Solinho
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Constança Proença
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | | | - Ana Jorge Santos
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
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Ke GN, Gow A, Wong RMM, Raman S, Mohammad Z, De-Lima N, Khairudin R, Lau WY, Kamal KA, Lee SC, Grajfoner D. Perceptions of risk and coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic among women and older adults. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301009. [PMID: 38630742 PMCID: PMC11023439 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The world's health, economic, and social systems have been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. With lockdown measures being a common response strategy in most countries, many individuals were faced with financial and mental health challenges. The current study explored the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the psychological well-being, perception of risk factors and coping strategies of two vulnerable groups in Malaysia, namely women and older adults from low-income households (USD592). A purposive sample of 30 women and 30 older adults was interviewed via telephone during Malaysia's Movement Control Order (MCO) regarding the challenges they faced throughout the pandemic. Thematic analysis was subsequently conducted to identify key themes. The themes identified from the thematic analysis indicated a degree of overlap between both groups. For women, seven themes emerged: 1) Psychological challenges due to COVID-19 pandemic, 2) Family violence, 3) Finance and employment related stress and anxiety, 4) Women's inequality and prejudice, 5) Coping strategies, 6) Professional support, and 7) Women's empowerment. Similarly, there were six themes for the older adults: 1) Adverse emotional experiences from COVID-19, 2) Threats to health security, 3) Loss of social connections, 4) Government aid to improve older adults' psychological well-being, 5) Psychological support from family members and pets, and 6) Self-reliance, religion, and spirituality. The findings provide valuable information on the specific burdens faced by these groups, and support psychological interventions and mitigations that would be appropriate to improve well-being during the recovery phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guek Nee Ke
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Putrajaya, Malaysia
- Centre for Applied Behavioural Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Alan Gow
- Centre for Applied Behavioural Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Putrajaya, Malaysia
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Mei Ming Wong
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Shahirah Raman
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Zulaikha Mohammad
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Nicole De-Lima
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | | | - Wee Yeap Lau
- Faculty of Economics and Administration, Department of Applied Statistics, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Shen Chiang Lee
- Malaysian Institute of Economic Research (MIER), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Dasha Grajfoner
- Centre for Applied Behavioural Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Putrajaya, Malaysia
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- DOBA Business School, Maribor, Slovenia
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18
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Kwon S, Benoit E, Windsor L. The effects of social support and self-efficacy on hopefulness in low-income older adults during COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:305. [PMID: 38565999 PMCID: PMC10985883 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-04915-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social support and self-efficacy play a significant role in improving positive psychological well-being in marginalized older adults. However, to date, there are few studies identifying the relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic. We examined the effect of social support and self-efficacy on hopefulness in a majority Black sample of marginalized low-income older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS This study used baseline data from a clinical trial designed to increase COVID-19 testing in Essex County, NJ, United States. The dataset involved participants 50 years old or older. We conducted: 1) cross-sectional descriptive/frequency statistics to understand the sociodemographic characteristics, 2) multivariate linear regression to investigate the direct relationships between social support subscales or self-efficacy and hopefulness, and 3) mediation analyses to examine the mediating role of self-efficacy in the relationship between social support and hopefulness. RESULTS Our findings showed that self-efficacy had a partial mediating effect on the relationship between social support and hopefulness. After adjusting for covariate variables, social support subscales (i.e., emotional/informational, tangible, affectionate, positive social interaction social support) and self-efficacy were significantly associated with hopefulness. The indirect effect of social support via self-efficacy was positive and statistically significant. CONCLUSION Self-efficacy mediated the relationship between social support and hopefulness in marginalized older adults aged 50 and over. Further research is needed to identify the various facets of positive psychological well-being using longitudinal data and a larger sample size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soonhyung Kwon
- Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, 112 Paterson St, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA.
| | - Ellen Benoit
- North Jersey Community Research Initiative, 393 Central Ave, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Liliane Windsor
- North Jersey Community Research Initiative, 393 Central Ave, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1010 W Nevada St, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
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Peng C, Yuan Y, Burr JA, Mutchler JE, Song Q, Lapane KL. Social Contact, Social Participation, and Emotional Well-Being Among Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Roles of Giving and Receiving Social Support. Int J Aging Hum Dev 2024; 98:373-394. [PMID: 37735920 DOI: 10.1177/00914150231202396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
This study examined whether social contact, social participation, and social support during the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with depression and anxiety. Data were taken from the 2020 COVID-19 Supplement of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (N = 2,778). Depression and anxiety were regressed on social contact frequency, social participation, and social support. Path analyses were also performed. The results showed that in-person contact was related to lower levels of depression, while in-person contact and attending religious services were related to lower levels of anxiety. Giving and receiving support were associated with higher levels of depression and anxiety. Giving support mediated the link between virtual contact, volunteering, and depression, while receiving support mediated the link between virtual contact and depression. Receiving and giving support mediated the association between virtual social contact, volunteering, and anxiety. During the pandemic, being socially connected provided some benefits in terms of emotional well-being, but in some cases being socially connected did not provide salubrious effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changmin Peng
- Department of Gerontology, John W. McCormack Graduate School of Public and Global Studies, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yiyang Yuan
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Burr
- Department of Gerontology, John W. McCormack Graduate School of Public and Global Studies, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jan E Mutchler
- Department of Gerontology, John W. McCormack Graduate School of Public and Global Studies, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Qian Song
- Department of Gerontology, John W. McCormack Graduate School of Public and Global Studies, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kate L Lapane
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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Sancassiani F, Cossu G, Cantone E, Romano F, Perra A, Urban A, Pinna S, Del Giacco S, Littera R, Firinu D, Chessa L, Tramontano E, Nardi AE, Carta MG. The Stability of Social and Behavioral Rhythms and Unexpected Low Rate of Relevant Depressive Symptoms in Old Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2005. [PMID: 38610769 PMCID: PMC11012795 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13072005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The disruption of social rhythms was found to be associated with depressive disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic; lower rates of these disorders were surprisingly found in old adults. The present study aims to verify the stability of social rhythms during lockdown in a sample of elderly people. Methods: Controlled cohort study (secondary analyses) of a previous randomized-controlled trial with the first evaluation in April 2019 (T0) and then 48 weeks later (T1) during the lockdown. The regulation of social and behavioral rhythms was measured through the Brief Social Rhythms Scale (BSRS); the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ9) was adopted to detect relevant depressive symptoms. Results: 93 elderlies (73.36 ± 4.97 years old, 50.5% females) were evaluated at T0 and T1. Neither the total score of BSRS nor any of the 10 items showed a statistically significant difference comparing the two survey periods. The frequency of relevant depressive symptoms was 5.3% at T0 and 6.4% at T1 (OR = 0.8, CI95% 0.2-24). Conclusions: Among elderlies who did not show an increased risk of depression during the lockdown, social and behavioral rhythms remained exceptionally stable during the same period. Considering previous evidence about rhythms dysregulation preceding depression, their stability may be considered a factor of resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Sancassiani
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Giulia Cossu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Elisa Cantone
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Ferdinando Romano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, 00185 Roma, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Perra
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Antonio Urban
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
- University Hospital of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Samantha Pinna
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Stefano Del Giacco
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Roberto Littera
- Medical Genetics, “R. Binaghi” Hospital, 09126 Cagliari, Italy;
- AART-ODV (Association for the Advancement of Research on Transplantation), 09131 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Davide Firinu
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Luchino Chessa
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
| | - Enzo Tramontano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Institute of Psychiatry-IPUB, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 22290-140, Brazil;
| | - Mauro Giovanni Carta
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (G.C.); (E.C.); (A.P.); (A.U.); (S.P.); (S.D.G.); (D.F.); (L.C.); (M.G.C.)
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21
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Wang W, Wang YH, Huang CH, Hsieh TH, Ibarburu GH, Wei JCC. Paxlovid use is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular diseases in COVID-19 patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases: a retrospective cohort study. BMC Med 2024; 22:117. [PMID: 38481216 PMCID: PMC10938827 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03331-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paxlovid has been shown to be effective in reducing mortality and hospitalization rates in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It is not known whether Paxlovid can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in COVID-19-surviving patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs). METHODS TriNetX data from the US Collaborative Network were used in this study. A total of 5,671,395 patients with AIRDs were enrolled between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2021. People diagnosed with COVID-19 were included in the cohort (n = 238,142) from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2022. The Study population was divided into two groups based on Paxlovid use. Propensity score matching was used to generate groups with matched baseline characteristics. The hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals of cardiovascular outcomes, admission rate, mortality rate, and intensive care unit (ICU) admission rate were calculated between Paxlovid and non-Paxlovid groups. Subgroup analyses on sex, age, race, autoimmune diseases group, and sensitivity analyses for Paxlovid use within the first day or within 2-5 days of COVID-19 diagnosis were performed. RESULTS Paxlovid use was associated with lower risks of cerebrovascular complications (HR = 0.65 [0.47-0.88]), arrhythmia outcomes (HR = 0.81 [0.68-0.94]), ischemic heart disease, other cardiac disorders (HR = 0.51 [0.35-0.74]) naming heart failure (HR = 0.41 [0.26-0.63]) and deep vein thrombosis (HR = 0.46 [0.24-0.87]) belonging to thrombotic disorders in AIRD patients with COVID-19. Compared with the Non-Paxlovid group, risks of major adverse cardiac events (HR = 0.56 [0.44-0.70]) and any cardiovascular outcome mentioned above (HR = 0.76 [0.66-0.86]) were lower in the Paxlovid group. Moreover, the mortality (HR = 0.21 [0.11-0.40]), admission (HR = 0.68 [0.60-0.76]), and ICU admission rates (HR = 0.52 [0.33-0.80]) were significantly lower in the Paxlovid group than in the non-Paxlovid group. Paxlovid appears to be more effective in male, older, and Black patients with AIRD. The risks of cardiovascular outcomes and severe conditions were reduced significantly with Paxlovid prescribed within the first day of COVID-19 diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Paxlovid use is associated with a lower risk of CVDs and severe conditions in COVID-19-surviving patients with AIRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Basic Theory for Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Hsun Wang
- Department of Medical Research, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hua Huang
- Department of Allergy, Immunology & Rheumatology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Department of Pharmacy, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Tsung-Hsueh Hsieh
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | - James Cheng-Chung Wei
- Department of Allergy, Immunology & Rheumatology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
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22
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Elamoshy R, Farag M, Geda N, Feng C. Assessing the impact of COVID-19 on self-reported levels of depression during the pandemic relative to pre-pandemic among Canadian adults. Arch Public Health 2024; 82:29. [PMID: 38449047 PMCID: PMC10918925 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-024-01253-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to assess the impact of COVID-19 related risk factors on self-reported increases in depression among Canadian adults during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic levels. We aim to investigate the interactive effects of stressors, including social isolation, financial stress, and fear of catching COVID-19, on mental health outcomes. Our study aims to provide insights for the development of prevention and intervention strategies to address the mental health effects of the pandemic by examining the psychological changes attributable to the pandemic and its impact. METHODS This study used data collected from the Mental Health Research Canada online survey during the third wave of COVID-19 (April 20-28, 2021). The study examined the impact of COVID-19 related factors, including social isolation, financial concerns, fear of catching COVID-19, and concerns about paying bills, on self-reported increases in depression. Multivariable logistic regression models were utilized to examine these associations, with adjustments made for potential confounding variables. All statistical analysis was performed using SAS V9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA). RESULTS Participants reporting social isolation, financial concerns, and fear of catching COVID-19 were more likely to report increased depression. An interaction was observed between concerns for paying bills and catching COVID-19 in relation to depression (p = 0.0085). In other words, the effect of concerns about paying bills on depression was stronger for individuals who also had a fear of catching COVID-19, and vice versa. Young adults, females, patients with pre-existing depression, and residents of certain provinces reported higher levels of depression during COVID-19. CONCLUSION Our study underscores the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, particularly among certain demographic groups. It emphasizes the need for depression screening and increased support for mental health during the pandemic, with a focus on mitigating financial burdens and reducing negative psychological impacts of social isolation. Our findings highlight the complex interplay between different stressors and the need to consider this when designing interventions to support mental health during times of crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha Elamoshy
- School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Marwa Farag
- School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Nigatu Geda
- College of Development Studies, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
| | - Cindy Feng
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Dalhousie, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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23
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Kuijpers TG, Gerkema MH, Engels G, Schipper M, Herber GCM. Physical Activity, Sleeping Problems, Weight, Feelings of Social Isolation, and Quality of Life of Older Adults After Coronavirus Infection: A Longitudinal Cohort Study. Epidemiology 2024; 35:119-129. [PMID: 38290137 PMCID: PMC10826922 DOI: 10.1097/ede.0000000000001693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is debate as to whether a coronavirus infection (SARS-CoV-2) affects older adults' physical activity, sleeping problems, weight, feelings of social isolation, and quality of life (QoL). We investigated differences in these outcomes between older adults with and without coronavirus infection over 180 days following infection. METHODS We included 6789 older adults (65+) from the Lifelines COVID-19 cohort study who provided data between April 2020 and June 2021. Older adults (65+) with and without coronavirus infection were matched on sex, age, education, living situation, body mass index, smoking status, vulnerable health, time of infection, and precoronavirus health outcome. Weighted linear mixed models, adjusted for strictness of governmental policy measures, were used to compare health outcomes after infection between groups. RESULTS In total, 309 participants were tested positive for coronavirus. Eight days after infection, older adults with a coronavirus infection engaged in less physical activity, had more sleeping problems, weighed less, felt more socially isolated, and had a lower QoL than those without an infection. Differences in weight, feelings of social isolation, and QoL were absent after 90 days. However, differences in physical activity were still present at 90 days following infection and sleeping problems were present at 180 days. CONCLUSION Our findings found negative associations of coronavirus infection with all the examined outcomes, which for physical activity persisted for 90 days and sleeping problems for 180 days. Magnitudes of estimated effects on physical activity and sleeping problems remain uncertain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G. Kuijpers
- From the Center for Prevention, Lifestyle and Health, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Maartje H. Gerkema
- From the Center for Prevention, Lifestyle and Health, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Gwenda Engels
- From the Center for Prevention, Lifestyle and Health, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten Schipper
- Department of Statistics, Data Science and Modelling, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Gerrie-Cor M. Herber
- From the Center for Prevention, Lifestyle and Health, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
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24
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Sun HL, Zhang Q, Si TL, Bai W, Chen P, Lam MI, Lok KI, Su Z, Cheung T, Ungvari GS, Jackson T, Sha S, Xiang YT. Interactive changes in depression and loneliness symptoms prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic: A longitudinal network analysis. Psychiatry Res 2024; 333:115744. [PMID: 38301287 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Depression and loneliness co-occur frequently. This study examined interactive changes between depression and loneliness among older adults prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic from a longitudinal network perspective. METHODS This network study was based on data from three waves (2016-2017, 2018-2019, and 2020) of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). Depression and loneliness were measured with the eight-item version of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-8) and three item version of the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale, respectively. A network model was constructed using an Ising Model while network differences were assessed using a Network Comparison Test. Central symptoms were identified via Expected Influence (EI). RESULTS A total of 4,293 older adults were included in this study. The prevalence and network of depression and loneliness did not change significantly between the baseline and pre-pandemic assessments but increased significantly from the pre-pandemic assessment to during COVID-19 assessment. The central symptom with the strongest increase from pre-pandemic to pandemic assessments was "Inability to get going" (CESD8) and the edge with the highest increase across depression-loneliness symptom communities was "Lack companionship" (UCLA1) - "Inability to get going" (CESD8). Finally, "Feeling depressed" (CESD1) and "Everything was an effort" (CESD2) were the most central symptoms over the three assessment periods. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with significant changes in the depression-loneliness network model. The most changed symptoms and edges could be treatment targets for reducing the risk of depression and loneliness in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- He-Li Sun
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China; Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Qinge Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Tong Leong Si
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Wei Bai
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China; Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Pan Chen
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China; Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Mei Ieng Lam
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China; Kiang Wu Nursing College of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Ka-In Lok
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sports, Macao Polytechnic University, Macao SAR, China
| | - Zhaohui Su
- School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Teris Cheung
- School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Gabor S Ungvari
- University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Australia; Division of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Todd Jackson
- Department of Psychology, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Sha Sha
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & National Center for Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital, Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Yu-Tao Xiang
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, & Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China; Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China.
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25
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Singh S, Polavarapu M, Vallerand K, Moore SS. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Health Behaviors and Outcomes by Age Group and Race Ethnicity: Results From Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Data. Am J Health Promot 2024; 38:355-363. [PMID: 37656165 DOI: 10.1177/08901171231199399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine changes in health behaviors and outcomes during early-pandemic (2020) vs pre-pandemic (2019) years by age groups and race/ethnicity. Multivariable logistic regressions were conducted using Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System datasets from 2019 (n = 418 268) and 2020 (n = 401 958). All participants reported less likelihood to exercise (aOR, .78; 95% CI: .73-.83) and have poor physical health (aOR, .91; 95% CI: .86-.98) but more likelihood to have excellent general health (aOR, 1.33; 1.17-1.53) during 2020 vs 2019. Compared to 2019, during 2020 (i) Blacks were more likely to exercise (aOR, 1.24; 95% CI: 1.02-1.51) and have excellent general health (aOR, 1.69; 95% CI: 1.13-2.54); (ii) Hispanics were less likely to exercise (aOR, .80; 95% CI: .74-.88), but more likely to have excellent general health (aOR, 2.44; 95% CI: 1.79-3.33) and mental health (aOR, 1.41; 95% CI: 1.15-1.72); and (iii) Whites were less likely to exercise (aOR, .58; 95% CI: .50-.67) and have good physical health (aOR, 0.89; 95% CI: .82-.95). All age groups, except 18-24 years, were less likely to exercise by 18%-39% during 2020 vs 2019. Furthermore, the 55-64 years age-group was 36% more likely to report excellent general health but 14% less likely to have good physical health. Identifying the most vulnerable racial/ethnic and age groups is pivotal to prioritizing public health resources and interventions to mitigate the impact of health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shipra Singh
- Department of Population Health, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Mounika Polavarapu
- Department of Population Health, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
| | | | - Sundaye S Moore
- Department of Population Health, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
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26
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Lee OE, Nah KO, Kim EM, Choi NG, Park DH. Exploring the Use of Socially Assistive Robot Among Socially Isolated Korean American Older Adults. J Appl Gerontol 2024:7334648241236081. [PMID: 38410030 DOI: 10.1177/07334648241236081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This pilot study explored whether a socially assistive robot (SAR) would have positive effects on Korean American immigrant older adults' health behaviors and emotional well-being and whether the older adults would be receptive to the SAR. A total of 30 participants (age 65+) in a large metropolitan area participated in the study, and each participant was provided a SAR named Hyodol for 4 months and interacted with it in ways that they saw appropriate. We used one-group pre- and post-test design to assess changes between baseline and follow-up in medication adherence, depressive symptoms, loneliness, and disability. Additionally, we employed in-depth qualitative interviews to explore participants' perceptions about the SAR. At post-test, participants showed improved medication adherence, reduced depressive symptoms, and a slightly and statistically nonsignificant decrease in loneliness scores. Qualitative data suggested high adoptability of this particular SAR among the participants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kwi Ok Nah
- Older Adult Center, Korean Community Services of Metropolitan New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eun Mi Kim
- Older Adult Center, Korean American Community Services of Metropolitan New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Namkee G Choi
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Do-Hyung Park
- School of Business IT, Kookmin University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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27
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Choi NG, Marti CN, Choi BY. Associations of Depression/Anxiety with Technology Use, Discontinued Use, and Nonuse in Older Adults. Clin Gerontol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38372144 PMCID: PMC11331021 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2024.2318478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine correlates of the changes in technology use among older adults and the associations of depression/anxiety symptoms with technology use changes. METHODS We used the 2019-2021 U.S. National Health and Aging Trends Study (N = 3,063; age 70+). We fitted multinomial logistic regression models to examine: (1) correlates of never use and discontinued use versus use of email/texting and the internet during the 3-year study period; and (2) associations of past-month depression/anxiety symptoms in 2021 with use and discontinued use versus never use of email/texting and social network site (SNS). RESULTS The findings show age, socioeconomic, and health barriers to technology use. Email/texting and SNS use in 2021, compared to never use in all 3 years, was associated with a lower likelihood of moderate/severe depression/anxiety symptoms in 2021 (RRR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.37-0.81 for email/texting use; RRR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.33-0.97 for SNS use). Video calls with family/friends were not associated with depression/anxiety symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The findings expand the existing knowledge base regarding potential impact of technology use on mental health beyond the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS More concerted efforts are warranted to help older adults' technology uptake and continued use and to promote mental health benefits of technology use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namkee G. Choi
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin
| | - C. Nathan Marti
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin
| | - Bryan Y. Choi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and BayHealth
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28
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Swall A, Hammar LM, Boström AM. Listen to the voices of nurses: the role of community chief nurses and registered nurses in the provision of care for older people in Sweden during the COVID-19 pandemic - a cross-sectional study. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:127. [PMID: 38308241 PMCID: PMC10835959 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04652-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the pandemic in Sweden, the aim was to protect older people, especially those among them who were sick, frail and vulnerable in residential care facilities. A ban was put on visits at all residential care facilities in March 2020 to prevent the spread of infection among the older people. This study aims to describe the experiences of Community Chief Nurses and Registered Nurses who provided medical and nursing care for older people in residential care facilities and home care during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, and to examine factors associated with the quality of care. METHODS The study has a mixed method cross-sectional design (STROBE). Data were collected using a web-based survey that comprised two questionnaires, for Community Chief Nurses and Registered Nurses developed for the study. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression models, as well as qualitative content analyses. RESULTS The majority of Community Chief Nurses reported adequate opportunities to work with management to handle the COVID-19 pandemic. The Registered Nurses reported that the quality of care, as well as the person's safety, was negatively affected during the pandemic. Factors associated with good care were as follows: information-sharing; ability to comply with hygiene practices; competence in how to care for older persons with COVID-19; a physician at bedside assessing their health; and support from frontline managers. CONCLUSION The study highlights crucial facets that care organizations must address to enhance their readiness for future pandemics or disasters, ensuring the security and well-being of the older people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Swall
- School of Health and Welfare, Dalarna University, Högskolan Dalarna, 791 88, Falun, Sweden.
| | - Lena Marmstål Hammar
- School of Health and Welfare, Dalarna University, Högskolan Dalarna, 791 88, Falun, Sweden
- School of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Mälardalen University, Box 833, 721 23, Eskilstuna/Västerås, Sweden
| | - Anne-Marie Boström
- Division of Nursing, Department of Neurobiology, Care Science and Society Karolinska Institute, Alfred Nobels Allé 23, 141 83, Stockholm, Huddinge, Sweden
- Medical Unit Aging, Theme Inflammation and Aging, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- R&D Unit, Stockholms Sjukhem, Stockholm, Sweden
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29
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Herring MP, Rasmussen CL, McDowell CP, Gordon BR, Kenny RA, Laird E. Physical activity dose for generalized anxiety disorder & worry: Results from the Irish longitudinal study on ageing. Psychiatry Res 2024; 332:115723. [PMID: 38211471 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
The lowest moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) dose that conveys protection for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and worry is unknown. This study quantified associations of weekly accumulated MVPA doses with GAD and worry across 10 years using data from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA). Continuous MVPA (metabolic equivalent of task [MET] minutes per week [MET.min.week-1]; e.g., moderate-intensity brisk walking = 4METs), three-dose and, more precise, five-dose MVPA categories were examined. Worry symptoms and GAD status were measured using the Penn State Worry Questionnaire-Abbreviated and the Composite International Diagnostic Interview. Multivariable negative random effect binomial regression and logistic models adjusted for relevant covariates quantified associations across time. Among the 7,650 participants, compared to no MVPA (0 MET.min.week-1), 18 % (OR: 0.82; 95 %CI: [0.69-0.98]), 22 % (OR: 0.78; [ 0.64-0.95]) and 31 % (OR: 0.69; [0.59-0.79]) lower odds of GAD were found for the doses of 1-<600, 600-<1,200 and ≥2,400 MET.min.week-1 respectively. Post-hoc analysis demonstrated 47 % lower odds (OR: 0.53; (0.36-0.78) of GAD for 1-<200 MET.min.week1 compared to inactivity. Compared to no activity, engaging in even minimal physical activity equivalent of 10 min/day for five days/week of moderate-intensity activity (e.g., brisk walking), may lower the risk of GAD over time among older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew P Herring
- Physical Activity for Health Research Centre, Health Research Institute, and Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Limerick, Ireland.
| | | | | | - Brett R Gordon
- Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Rose Anne Kenny
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Eamon Laird
- Physical Activity for Health Research Centre, Health Research Institute, and Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Limerick, Ireland
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Lara-Cinisomo S, Melesse B, Mendy ME. Demographic and COVID-19-Related Factors Associated with Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms Among African American and Latina Women in a Midwestern State. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:36-44. [PMID: 36622569 PMCID: PMC9838266 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-022-01495-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated racial and ethnic disparities among Latina and African American (AA) women, including risk factors for depression and anxiety. This study sought to identify demographic- and pandemic-related factors associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms in adult AA and Latina women living in a Midwestern state. METHODS Data for this secondary analysis of 1037 AA and Latina women were collected in May 2020 and June/July 2020. Participants completed an online survey about their demographic characteristics, job changes due to COVID-19, general concern about COVID-19, concern about the effects COVID-19 on their mental health, and whether they prayed to cope with COVID-19. Linear regressions with bootstrapping were conducted to determine associations. RESULTS Latinas had significantly higher depressive and anxiety symptoms than AA women. Older age was a buffer against depressive and anxiety symptoms. Women who anticipated a reduction in work hours or job loss had significantly higher depressive and anxiety symptoms than those with no job changes. A reduction in work hours was also a risk for higher depressive symptoms. General and specific concerns about the impact of COVID-19 were positively associated with higher depressive and anxiety symptoms. Race/ethnicity moderated the effect of praying to cope with COVID-19 on depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS As the pandemic continues, mental health resources should be allocated to help AA and Latina women who experienced or anticipate reductions in paid hours and those concerned about its effects. Research is needed to identify how praying increased depressive symptoms in adult Latina women early in the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandraluz Lara-Cinisomo
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 1206 S. Fourth Street, 2015 Khan Annex, Champaign, IL, 61820, USA.
| | - Biniyam Melesse
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 1206 S. Fourth Street, 2015 Khan Annex, Champaign, IL, 61820, USA
| | - Mary Ellen Mendy
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 1206 S. Fourth Street, 2015 Khan Annex, Champaign, IL, 61820, USA
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Gaddis K, Woollen KC, Johnson LJ, Flaherty T, Byrnes JF. A structural vulnerability approach to older adult suicides: Trends and potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in Clark County, NV (2017-2021). Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2024; 8:100454. [PMID: 38304716 PMCID: PMC10830507 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2024.100454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
The ongoing SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected all aspects of life in the United States and around the world. This is particularly true for marginalized and vulnerable groups who face disproportionate levels of violence and premature death within their communities. While general impacts of the pandemic have been well-studied overall, little has been done to examine the correlation between COVID-19 and the risk of suicide among older adults. Older adults are particularly at risk because they face challenges including ageism, inadequate support systems, unreliable transportation, and frequent social isolation. Medicolegal casework offers a unique vantage of these issues, as it aims to identify manner of death which may be influenced by underlying structural vulnerabilities. The current research draws upon data collected from the Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner. A sample of 871 older adults (aged 50+), whose manner of death was deemed a suicide between the years 2017-2021, were included in this analysis. Statistical analyses investigated differences between adults aged 50-64, 65-84, and 85+ years. Results suggest statistically significant changes in mechanism of death between pre-pandemic and pandemic periods, indicating a shift in risk factors related to social isolation and the home environment. Understanding such changes in trends directly affects the interpretation of skeletal data in forensic anthropology and thus, should be taken into consideration when developing structural vulnerability profiles. Furthermore, the inclusion of a structural vulnerability approach in forensic case reports has the potential to provide additional context for deaths by suicide and may help develop policies and procedures for mitigating future risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Gaddis
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy., Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Katharine C. Woollen
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy., Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Liam J. Johnson
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy., Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Taylor Flaherty
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy., Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Jennifer F. Byrnes
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy., Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
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Caillot-Ranjeva S, Bergua V, Meillon C, Amieva H. Impact of Cohabitation during Confinement on Older Adults' Negative Affect: What Specificity of Life as a Couple? J Frailty Aging 2024; 13:64-70. [PMID: 38305445 PMCID: PMC10212736 DOI: 10.14283/jfa.2023.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social isolation is a risk factor for older adults' physical and psychological health. The beneficial effect of social connections in times of major health events is undeniable. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether the positive effect of social support depends on the relationship type. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the influence of older adults' living conditions on the risk of experiencing negative affect during the first lockdown and post-lockdown. DESIGN An epidemiological study conducted during the COVID-19 crisis, at the time of the first lockdown, and 2 to 3 months following the lockdown. SETTING A subset sample of the PACOVID survey, a population-based survey of older adults. PARTICIPANTS Altogether, 277 participants were included into three groups depending on their living conditions: Group 1 "living alone" (n = 141); Group 2 "living with their spouse" (n = 106); Group 3 "living in cohabitation with relatives" (n = 30). MEASUREMENTS Mixed logistic regression analyses were used to study the change in the risk of experiencing negative affects over time according to the living conditions. The presence of negative affects during lockdown was assessed using three items from the 20-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale : «Do you feel sad?»; «Do you feel depressed?; «Do you feel lonely? RESULTS Participants living with their relatives or partner were significantly less likely to experience negative affect than those living alone during lockdown. Moreover, over time, only those living with their spouse had this lesser risk compared to those living alone. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the protective effect of social support over time and more specifically of that provided by the spouse. Couple functioning ought to be given consideration when studying the impact of health crisis situation on the mental health of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Caillot-Ranjeva
- Valérie Bergua, University of Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, UMR 1219, 146 rue Léo Saignat, CS61292, F-33076 Bordeaux Cedex, France, Phone: 0033 5 57 57 56 44 / Fax: 0033 5 57 57 14 86
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Patapoff MA, Jester DJ, Daly RE, Mausbach BT, Depp CA, Glorioso DK. Remotely-administered resilience and self-compassion intervention targeting loneliness and stress in older adults: a single-case experimental design. Aging Ment Health 2024; 28:369-376. [PMID: 37814972 PMCID: PMC10842569 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2262411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Loneliness and chronic stress are prevalent issues for older adults that have been linked to adverse health outcomes. We conducted a remote resilience and self-compassion intervention targeting loneliness and chronic stress. METHODS This study utilized a multiple-phase-change single-case experimental design with three consecutive 6-week phases: control, intervention, follow-up. Assessments and biomarker collection (blood pressure, inflammation, sleep actigraphy) were conducted at each phase. Participants completed a 6-week remotely-administered resilience and self-compassion intervention using techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy and resilience training. Repeated measures ANOVAs were conducted over the 12-week period from control (week 0) to intervention completion (week 12) and over the 18-week period from control (week 0) to follow-up (week 18) in supplemental analyses. RESULTS Participants reported a reduction in stress (p < 0.001; ηp2 = 0.15), depression (p = 0.02; ηp2 = 0.08), and loneliness (p = 0.003; ηp2 = 0.18), and an increase in self-compassion (p = 0.01; ηp2 = 0.13) from control to intervention completion (weeks 0-12). Post-hoc tests revealed that stress reduced significantly during the intervention phase (weeks 6-12) and loneliness reduced significantly during the control phase (weeks 0-6). Some improvements in blood pressure, inflammation, and sleep quality were noted in a subsample of participants. CONCLUSION Findings indicate that our remote resilience and self-compassion intervention for older adults targeting loneliness and chronic stress was efficacious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly A Patapoff
- Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Dylan J Jester
- Women's Operational Military Exposure Network (WOMEN), VA Palo Alto Health Care System
| | - Rebecca E Daly
- Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Brent T Mausbach
- Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Colin A Depp
- Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Danielle K Glorioso
- Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Benge JF, Aguirre A, Scullin MK, Kiselica AM, Hilsabeck RC, Paydarfar D, Douglas M. Internet-Enabled Behaviors in Older Adults During the Pandemic: Patterns of Use, Psychosocial Impacts, and Plans for Continued Utilization. WORK, AGING AND RETIREMENT 2024; 10:6-13. [PMID: 38196827 PMCID: PMC10772966 DOI: 10.1093/workar/waac026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
In response to social distancing measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a need to increase the frequency of internet enabled behaviors (IEBs). To date, little is known about how the pandemic impacted IEBs in older adults, a population that has historically been linked to lower digital literacy and utilization. We administered an online survey between April and July 2021 to 298 adults who were over age 50 (mean age = 73 years; 93.5% non-Hispanic white; 94% smart phone owners; 83.5% retired). Older adults self-reported IEBs for social, shopping, medical, and leisure activities during the pandemic, plans for continued use of these behaviors, and completed measures of psychosocial functioning. 66.8% of respondents reported an overall increase in IEBs during the pandemic, most notably for online meeting attendance. More frequent online meeting use was associated with less depression (r = -0.12, p = .04) and less loneliness (r = -0.14, p = .02). With regard to plans for continued use, 82.5% of the sample reported at least one IEB (M = 2.18, SD = 1.65) that they increased during the pandemic and planned to maintain over time (e.g., online shopping for household goods). Plans for continued use were more likely in participants who used IEBs more overall during the pandemic (r = 0.56, p < .001), and who frequently sought technical support on search engines (r = 0.22, p < .001), or online video sites (r = 0.16, p = .006). In summary, IEBs during the pandemic were associated with favorable psychosocial functioning and expectations for continued use in this sample of predominantly white older adults who had some baseline technological familiarity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared F Benge
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
- Mulva Clinic for the Neurosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Alyssa Aguirre
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
- Mulva Clinic for the Neurosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Michael K Scullin
- Department of Psychology and Neurosciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States
| | - Andrew M Kiselica
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Robin C Hilsabeck
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
- Mulva Clinic for the Neurosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - David Paydarfar
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
- Mulva Clinic for the Neurosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Michael Douglas
- Georgetown Neuroscience Foundation, Georgetown, TX, United States
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Khalil MIM, Elnakeeb M, Hassanin HI, Sorour DM. Knowledge, familiarity, and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on barriers to seeking mental health services among older people: a cross-sectional study. Psychogeriatrics 2024; 24:3-15. [PMID: 37908168 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.13033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
AIM The COVID-19 pandemic caused drastic changes in older people's daily activities with a negative impact on their mental health, yet older people are less likely to seek mental health services. This study aims to explore the relationship between knowledge of and familiarity with mental health services, along with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and barriers to seeking mental health services among older people. METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of 352 older people, recruited among community-dwelling adults who attended randomly selected postal offices and pension outlets. Three tools were used: a structured interview schedule for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of older people, the revised version of the Knowledge and Familiarity of Mental Health Services Scale (KFFMHS-R), and the Barriers to Mental Health Services Scale Revised (BMHSS-R). RESULTS All participants reported experiencing mental health distress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Intrinsic barriers had a higher mean score than extrinsic barriers, and 27.4% of the variance of overall barriers to seeking mental health could be explained through regression analysis by familiarity, knowledge of mental health services, and age. Overall barriers explained 24.4% of the variance of older people's perceived distress as an impact of the COVID-19 pandemic (F = 22.160, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Knowledge of mental health services was the most significant predictor of barriers to seeking mental health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Higher barriers predicted higher distress as an impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The results of the study suggest the need for a multidisciplinary mental health team for older people.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mayar Elnakeeb
- Psychiatric Nursing and Mental Health, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Hany Ibrahim Hassanin
- Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dina Metwally Sorour
- Gerontological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Choi KW, Kim HHS. Social Capital and Willingness to Comply With Anti-Pandemic Government Intervention. Res Aging 2024; 46:43-58. [PMID: 37349177 DOI: 10.1177/01640275231185788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
This study examines the relationship between individual-level social capital and compliance attitudes toward health protective measures in the context of COVID-19. We drew on secondary population-based data fielded during the pandemic's initial phase (April - June of 2020). The analytic sample consists of 9124 older American adults (ages 55 and over) across 18 U.S. States and Metropolitan Statistical Areas. We estimated mixed-effects models with random intercepts and slopes. People who are better socially connected are more willing to comply with anti-pandemic government intervention. This relationship is stronger among those who are more psychologically distressed. Its magnitude also increases in more densely populated areas and places with higher numbers of coronavirus infection. Older Americans' anti-coronavirus compliance attitudes is significantly driven by preexisting interpersonal connectedness and civic engagement. The role of social capital is also contingent on the existing levels of risk factor (threat and vulnerability).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Won Choi
- Department of Sociology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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San Francisco CND, Zhen-Duan J, Fukuda M, Alegría M. Attitudes and perceptions toward the COVID-19 risk-mitigation strategies among racially and ethnically diverse older adults in the United States and Puerto Rico: a qualitative study. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2024; 29:25-45. [PMID: 37543717 PMCID: PMC10867780 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2023.2243548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is limited qualitative research investigating how risk-mitigation strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the lives of diverse older adults, who met criteria for mild to severe generalized anxiety or depression and minor to moderate disability. This study aims to address this gap by examining how racially and ethnically diverse older adults with at least mild mental health symptoms and minor physical disability in the United States and Puerto Rico adapted to guidelines during COVID-19. It aims to inform the medical community and policymakers of potential threats to these older adults' well-being given the COVID-19 burden. DESIGN Based on descriptive qualitative inquiry and phenomenological perspectives, we conducted semi-structured interviews over the phone with a racially and ethnically diverse sample of older (age 60+), predominantly minoritized adults (N = 100) in four states and territories across the United States and Puerto Rico in 2021. Interviews were recorded, coded, and analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. RESULTS Findings centered on five themes: (1) Previous experiences with the healthcare system and cultural beliefs related to trust and distrust led to mixed attitudes toward COVID-19 risk-mitigation strategies; (2) Compliance with COVID-19 mitigation strategies ensured safety and addressed fear of illness; (3) Compliance led to isolation due to interrupted social relations; (4) Isolation and disrupted social networks negatively impacted mental health and finances, and (5) Coping strategies and embracing support reduced the effects of social isolation. CONCLUSION This study underscores the importance of increasing support and social connectedness during a pandemic and beyond to ensure the well-being of older adults in racially and ethnically diverse communities. It highlights the resiliency of older adults in identifying strategies to cope with negative impacts. We recommend safeguarding economic security through policy efforts toward financial safety nets during health crises and collaborative approaches with community-based organizations to mitigate social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Nvé Díaz San Francisco
- Disparities Research Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Departamento de Antropología Social y Cultural, Universidad de Educación a Distancia, UNED, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jenny Zhen-Duan
- Disparities Research Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Marie Fukuda
- Disparities Research Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Margarita Alegría
- Disparities Research Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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Bahr KO, Bhavsar GP, Zhao D. "We are still tired": staff and administrators' experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic within California residential care facilities for older adults. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:868. [PMID: 38110888 PMCID: PMC10726520 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04537-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extensive research has been conducted on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on long-term care workers in specialized care facilities. However, little is known about the impacts faced by facilities that provide generalized long-term support and care, such as residential care facilities for older adults (RCFs). This study describes the challenges experienced by staff and administrators of RCFs during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS An electronic questionnaire collecting data using both closed- and open-ended questions on staff experiences was sent to 5,721 unique RCF administrator emails within the state of California between June-December 2021. Email addresses were obtained from the public database of RCFs available through the California Health and Human Services Open Data Portal. Descriptive statistics were calculated on quantitative data regarding staff preparedness training, access to resources, and administrators' confidence in meeting recommended guidelines during the pandemic. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted on qualitative data regarding the confidence levels in meeting pandemic guidelines and challenges faced related to staff stress and morale. RESULTS A total of 150 RCF administrators across California (response rate of 2.6%) completed the survey. Over three-fourths of respondents indicated their facilities had a designated staff member to train other staff members on emergency preparedness plans and the most frequently used resources during the COVID-19 pandemic were the Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division (88.7%), the county health department (86.7%), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (80.7%). Administrators felt least confident in their facilities' ability to maintain adequate staffing (52.0%), communication with nearby hospitals (62.1%) and communication with state and local public health officials (69.8%) during the pandemic. Three central themes emerged from the thematic analysis on staff stress and morale: (1) physical safety, mental and emotional impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; (2) staffing issues; and (3) challenges with guidelines in managing the ongoing pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this research study can be used to actively target training resources for facility administrators and staff that have been identified as most frequently used and relevant for emergency preparedness in these understudied facilities. Additionally, developing a better understanding of the staffing stress and morale difficulties in RCFs can provide insight on how policymakers can assist these critical facilities in better preparing for future crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin O Bahr
- Public Health Program, California State University Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge, CA, 91330, USA.
| | - Grishma P Bhavsar
- Health Administration Program, California State University Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge, CA, 91330, USA
| | - David Zhao
- Public Health Program, California State University Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge, CA, 91330, USA
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Escobar-Agreda S, Romero Albino Z, Contreras PJ, Cuba-Fuentes MS. Complicated grief and its relationship with anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation in older adults in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in Peru: a cross-sectional analysis. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:908. [PMID: 38053085 PMCID: PMC10696725 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05412-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complicated grief (CG) resulting from poor adaptation to the death of a close person may have been related with the presence of other mental health problems in older adults in Peru during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our study aimed to assess the association between CG and anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation in older adults in Peru in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from the "Socioemotional evaluation form" applied in 2020 to mental health problems in older adults attending the Peruvian Social Security (EsSalud). For our study, we included older adults who reported the death of a close person during the last six months when this assessment was performed. CG, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation were initially evaluated using validated questionnaires. The association between CG and the presence of mental health problems was calculated through multivariate analysis, where prevalence ratios (PR) were estimated with 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS Of the 249 older adults included, 175 (70.3%) were female with a median age of 71 years (interquartile range: 9), and 35 (14.1%) reported the presence of CG. It was found that CG in this population was associated with the presence of anxiety (PR: 1.35, 95% CI: 0.98 to 1.85), depression (PR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.06 to 1.95), and suicidal ideation (PR: 2.84, 95% CI: 1.06 to 7.59). CONCLUSIONS CG is related to the presence of mental health problems in older adults in Peru. It is essential to implement measures that facilitate the prevention and proper management of this condition in this population, especially in the context of high population mortality such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pavel J Contreras
- Padomi Children, Flexible Offer Management, Essalud, Lima, Peru
- Centro de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Salud, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, 775 Jose Gonzales Street, Apt. 604, Miraflores, Lima, Perú
| | - María Sofía Cuba-Fuentes
- Centro de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Salud, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, 775 Jose Gonzales Street, Apt. 604, Miraflores, Lima, Perú.
- Juan Jose Rodriguez Lazo Polyclinic, EsSalud, Lima, Perú.
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Chen Z, Cong Z. Age Differences in Psychological Distress After Multiple Disaster Exposures: The Effect of Multidimensional Negative COVID-19 Impacts. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2023; 17:e554. [PMID: 38044831 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2023.207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined how the multidimensional negative coronavirus disease (COVID-19) impacts contextualized the age differences in psychological distress following exposures to tornadoes and the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Data were from a 2-wave panel study conducted at T1 (October 2020-August 2021) and T2 (May-August 2022). Latent class analysis was conducted to explore the patterns of negative COVID-19 impacts based on a sample of 1134 at T1. Negative binomial regressions were performed to examine the age differences in psychological distress at T2, based on the working sample (N = 554), as well as the moderating effect of identified class membership, with baseline psychological distress controlled. RESULTS Three latent classes were identified: class 1 "low overall impacts," class 2 "moderate overall impacts with high emotional distress," and class 3 "severe overall impacts." Individuals ages 65 and over reported lower psychological distress at T2 relative to those ages 18-34 and 35-49. However, compared to people ages 18-34, 35-49, and 50-64, those ages 65 and over reported the greatest increases in T2 psychological distress if they had experienced moderate or severe overall COVID-19 impacts at T1. CONCLUSION There is a pressing need for mental health interventions that are tailored to multi-disaster scenarios and age-related differences in long-term disaster recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhirui Chen
- Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Zhen Cong
- Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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Schlosser M, Klimecki OM, Collette F, Gonneaud J, Kliegel M, Marchant NL, Chételat G, Lutz A. An 18-month meditation training selectively improves psychological well-being in older adults: A secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0294753. [PMID: 38039341 PMCID: PMC10691714 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES As the world population is ageing, it is vital to understand how older adults can maintain and deepen their psychological well-being as they are confronted with the unique challenges of ageing in a complex world. Theoretical work has highlighted the promising role of intentional mental training such as meditation practice for enhancing human flourishing. However, meditation-based randomised controlled trials in older adults are lacking. We aimed to investigate the effects of meditation training on psychological well-being in older adults. METHODS This study presents a secondary analysis of the Age-Well trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02977819), which randomised 137 healthy older adults (age range: 65 to 84 years) to an 18-month meditation training, an active comparator (English language training), or a passive control. Well-being was measured at baseline, mid-intervention, and 18-month post-randomisation using the Psychological Well-being Scale (PWBS), the World Health Organisation's Quality of Life (QoL) Assessment psychological subscale, and composite scores reflecting the meditation-based well-being dimensions of awareness, connection, insight, and a global score comprising the average of these meditation-based dimensions. RESULTS The 18-month meditation training was superior to English training on changes in the global score (0.54 [95% CI: 0.26, 0.82], p = 0.0002) and the subscales of awareness, connection, insight, and superior to no-intervention only on changes in the global score (0.54 [95% CI: 0.26, 0.82], p = 0.0002) and awareness. Between-group differences in psychological QoL in favour of meditation did not remain significant after adjusting for multiple comparisons. There were no between-group differences in PWBS total score. Within the meditation group, psychological QoL, awareness, insight, and the global score increased significantly from baseline to 18-month post-randomisation. CONCLUSION The longest randomised meditation training conducted to date enhanced a global composite score reflecting the meditation-based well-being dimensions of awareness, connection, and insight in older adults. Future research is needed to delineate the cognitive, affective, and behavioural factors that predict responsiveness to meditation and thus help refine the development of tailored meditation training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Schlosser
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Olga M. Klimecki
- Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Clinical Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Fabienne Collette
- GIGA-CRC In Vivo Imaging, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Psychology and Neuroscience of Cognition Research Unit, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Julie Gonneaud
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders", Neuropresage Team, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Matthias Kliegel
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Natalie L. Marchant
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gaël Chételat
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, INSERM, U1237, PhIND "Physiopathology and Imaging of Neurological Disorders", Neuropresage Team, Cyceron, Caen, France
| | - Antoine Lutz
- Eduwell Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center Inserm U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Lyon 1 University, Lyon, France
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Sowan W, Rutin R, Cohen M. Chronic stressors, coping strategies, and depressive symptoms: A comparison across older age groups. Stress Health 2023; 39:1037-1046. [PMID: 36848591 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Late-life depression is a prevalent mental health problem among older adults. Variations may exist in the intensity of chronic stressors experienced by people in different older age groups and their effects on depressive symptoms. To examine differences among older adults by age group in the experienced intensity of chronic stressors in relation to coping strategies and depressive symptoms. Participants were 114 older adults. The sample was divided into three age groups: 65-72, 73-81, and 82-91. The participants completed questionnaires on coping strategies, depressive symptoms, and chronic stressors. Moderation analyses were conducted. The lowest levels of depressive symptoms were in the young-old age group and the highest levels were in the oldest-old age group. The young-old age group used more engaged and less disengaged coping strategies than the two other groups. The association between intensity of chronic stressors and depressive symptoms was stronger in the two older age groups compared to the youngest (moderating effect of age groups). Differences exist in the relationships among chronic stressors, coping strategies, and depressive symptoms by age groups in the older adult population. Professionals should be aware of the possible differences between age groups in depressive symptoms and the impact of stressors on depressive symptoms in different older adult age groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafaa Sowan
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Renana Rutin
- Department of Gerontology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Miri Cohen
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Russell A, Filec S, Serper M, Opsasnick L, Batio S, O'Conor RM, Curtis L, Kwasny M, Benavente JY, Wismer G, Bonham M, Zheng P, Lovett R, Arvanitis M, Ladner DP, McCaffery K, Linder JA, Bailey SC, Wolf MS. Impact of COVID-19 on the capacity to self-manage health and chronic conditions. PEC INNOVATION 2023; 2:100163. [PMID: 37197693 PMCID: PMC10167781 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2023.100163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Objective To investigate well-being, lifestyle behaviors, self-management capacity and healthcare utilization among adults with chronic conditions at the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Data was collected from two interviewer-administered telephone surveys conducted between March 27 - May 22, 2020. Participants were patients at Chicago-area clinics. Self-report and validated measures were used for study-related outcomes. Results A total of 553 participants (age range 23-88) completed data collection at both timepoints. One in five (20.7%) participants experienced stress due to the coronavirus most or all the time and rates of negative well-being were high (WHO-5 Index mean = 58.7%). Almost a quarter (22.3%) engaged in hazardous drinking and 79.7% reported insufficient physical activity. Nearly one in four participants (23.7%) avoided seeking medical care due to worry about COVID-19. In multivariable analyses, greater COVID-19 related stress was associated with less physical activity, lower self-efficacy, greater difficulty managing health and medications, and delays in seeking medical care due to the coronavirus. Conclusions Mental well-being, lifestyle behaviors, self-management capacity, and healthcare utilization were impacted in the months following the COVID outbreak. Innovation These findings suggest health systems should implement proactive measures for detecting and treating emotional and behavioral COVID-related concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Russell
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Sarah Filec
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Marina Serper
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Lauren Opsasnick
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Stephanie Batio
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Rachel M. O'Conor
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Laura Curtis
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Mary Kwasny
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Julia Yoshino Benavente
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Guisselle Wismer
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Morgan Bonham
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Pauline Zheng
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Lovett
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Marina Arvanitis
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Daniela P. Ladner
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | | | - Jeffrey A. Linder
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Stacy Cooper Bailey
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Michael S. Wolf
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Dr., 10th Floor, Chicago, IL, United States of America
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Oviedo DC, Tratner AE, Pinzón MS, Rodríguez-Araña S, Pauli-Quirós E, Chavarría C, Rodríguez CP, Britton GB. Resilience mediates the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health in a sample of adults in Panama. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1235935. [PMID: 38034306 PMCID: PMC10687484 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1235935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic was characterized by global increases in depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms. Previous studies have shown that resilience mitigates these symptoms, however there is limited research exploring the link between resilience and mental illness during the COVID-19 pandemic in Central America. Objective To examine the role of resilience as it relates to the perceived effect of the pandemic on mental health symptoms. Methods A sample of 480 adults in Panama were recruited from March to May 2021 to complete an online survey. The online survey consisted of sociodemographic questions and scale measures assessing depression, anxiety and stress symptoms, resilience, and social support. Results Results indicated that resilience mediated the relationship between the perceived effect of the COVID-19 pandemic and mental health symptoms; participants who felt more personally affected by the pandemic reported more depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms via decreased resilience. Further analyses revealed that resilience was moderated by sex and social support, showing that the indirect effect of resilience was greater for women and individuals who perceived low social support. Discussion These findings contribute to a growing body of research documenting the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and reveal potential mechanisms through which pandemic-related distress decreases resilience, thereby increasing symptoms of mental illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana C. Oviedo
- Centro de Neurociencias y Unidad de Investigación Clínica, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panama, Panama
- Escuela de Psicología, Universidad Santa María la Antigua (USMA), Panama, Panama
- Sistema Nacional de Investigación (SNI) SENACYT, Panama, Panama
| | - Adam E. Tratner
- Centro de Neurociencias y Unidad de Investigación Clínica, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panama, Panama
- Sistema Nacional de Investigación (SNI) SENACYT, Panama, Panama
- Florida State University, Panama, Panama
| | - María Sofía Pinzón
- Escuela de Psicología, Universidad Santa María la Antigua (USMA), Panama, Panama
| | - Sofía Rodríguez-Araña
- Centro de Neurociencias y Unidad de Investigación Clínica, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panama, Panama
| | - Elianne Pauli-Quirós
- Centro de Neurociencias y Unidad de Investigación Clínica, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panama, Panama
- Escuela de Psicología, Universidad Santa María la Antigua (USMA), Panama, Panama
| | - Carlos Chavarría
- Centro de Neurociencias y Unidad de Investigación Clínica, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panama, Panama
- Escuela de Psicología, Universidad Santa María la Antigua (USMA), Panama, Panama
| | - Camilo Posada Rodríguez
- Centro de Neurociencias y Unidad de Investigación Clínica, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panama, Panama
| | - Gabrielle B. Britton
- Centro de Neurociencias y Unidad de Investigación Clínica, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panama, Panama
- Sistema Nacional de Investigación (SNI) SENACYT, Panama, Panama
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He J, Lin J, Sun W, Cheung T, Cao Y, Fu E, Chan SHW, Tsang HWH. The effects of psychosocial and behavioral interventions on depressive and anxiety symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19094. [PMID: 37925535 PMCID: PMC10625531 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45839-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychosocial and behavioral interventions have been shown to significantly reduce depressive and anxiety symptoms in different populations. Recent evidence suggests that the mental health of the general population has deteriorated significantly since the start of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on the therapeutic effects of psychosocial and behavioral interventions on depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. We systematically searched six electronic databases between December 2019 and February 2022 including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wanfang Data. We included randomized clinical trials of psychosocial and behavioral interventions in individuals with depressive or anxiety symptoms during the COVID-19 outbreak compared to various control conditions. A total of 35 eligible studies with 5457 participants were included. The meta-analysis results showed that psychosocial and behavioral interventions had statistically significant moderate effects on depression [SMD = - 0.73, 95% CI (- 1.01, - 0.45), I2 = 90%] and large effects on anxiety [SMD = - 0.90, 95% CI (- 1.19, - 0.60), I2 = 92%], especially in the general population and COVID-19 survivors. Exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy were found to be the most effective treatments with moderate-to-large effect size for depression and anxiety during the outbreak of COVID-19. We also found the internet-based approach could also achieve almost equally significant effects on depression and anxiety compared with face-to-face traditional approach. Our findings suggest that cognitive behavioral therapy and physical exercise intervention are significantly effective for depression and anxiety related to the COVID-19 pandemic regardless of the delivery modes, and gender differences should be taken into consideration for better implementation of interventions in clinical and community practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali He
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Jingxia Lin
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Mental Health Research Center, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Wen Sun
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Teris Cheung
- Mental Health Research Center, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Yuan Cao
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Mental Health Research Center, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Eugene Fu
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Sunny H W Chan
- School of Health and Social Wellbeing, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Hector W H Tsang
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
- Mental Health Research Center, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
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Aravindhan K, Morgan K, Mat S, Hamid TA, Ibrahim R, Saedon NI, Hasmuk K, Mahadzir H, Tan MP. Cognitive frailty and its association with depression, anxiety and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic among older adults in the transforming cognitive frailty into later-life self-sufficiency (AGELESS) study. Psychogeriatrics 2023; 23:1071-1082. [PMID: 37752079 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.13031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive frailty describes the co-occurrence of cognitive impairment and physical frailty and is classified into reversible and irreversible phenotypes. Data on the impact of COVID-19 pandemic imposed lockdowns, locally known as the Movement Control Order (MCO), on the psychological status of cognitively frail older adults remain scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the relationship between depression, anxiety, stress and cognitive frailty among older adults during the MCO. METHOD Participants aged above 60 years from three ageing cohorts in Malaysia were interviewed virtually. The Fatigue, Resistance, Ambulation, Illness and Loss of Weight scale, blind Montreal Cognitive Assessment, 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale, anxiety subscale of Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale and four-item Perceived Stress Scale measured frailty, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), depression, anxiety and stress, respectively. RESULTS Cognitive frailty data were available for 870 participants, age (mean ± SD) = 73.44 ± 6.32 years and 55.6% were women. Fifty-seven (6.6%) were robust, 24 (2.8%) had MCI, 451 (51.8%) were pre-frail, 164 (18.9%) were pre-frail+MCI, 119 (13.7%) were frail and 55 (6.3%) were frail+MCI. There were significant differences in depression and anxiety scores between the controlled MCO and recovery MCO. Using multinomial logistic regression, pre-frail (mean difference (95% confidence interval, CI) = 1.16 (0.932, 1.337), frail (1.49 (1.235, 1.803) and frail+MCI (1.49 (1.225, 1.822)) groups had significantly higher depression scores, frail (1.19 (1.030, 1.373)) and frail+MCI (1.24 (1.065, 1.439)) had significantly higher anxiety scores and pre-frail (1.50 (1.285, 1.761)), frail (1.74 (1.469, 2.062)) and frail+MCI (1.81 (1.508, 2.165)) had significantly higher stress scores upon adjustments for the potential confounders. The MCO was a potential confounder in the relationship between depression and prefrail+MCI (1.08 (0.898, 1.340)). CONCLUSION Frail individuals with or without MCI had significantly higher depression, anxiety and stress than those who were robust. Increased depression and stress were also observed in the pre-frail group. Interventions to address psychological issues in older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic could target prefrail and frail individuals and need further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karen Morgan
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and University College Dublin Malaysia Campus (RCSI & UCD), Penang, Malaysia
| | - Sumaiyah Mat
- Centre for Healthy Ageing and Wellness, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Tengku Aizan Hamid
- Malaysian Research Institute on Ageing (MyAgeingTM), University Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rahimah Ibrahim
- Malaysian Research Institute on Ageing (MyAgeingTM), University Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nor Izzati Saedon
- Department of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kejal Hasmuk
- Department of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hazlina Mahadzir
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Medicine, Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Maw Pin Tan
- Department of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Lovett R, Filec S, Bonham M, Yoshino Benavente J, O'Conor R, Russell A, Zheng P, Wismer G, Yoon E, Weiner-Light S, Vogeley A, Morrissey Kwasny M, Lowe S, Curtis LM, Federman A, Bailey SC, Wolf M. Long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on self-management of chronic conditions among high-risk adults in the USA: protocol for the C3 observational cohort study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e077911. [PMID: 37899164 PMCID: PMC10618985 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-077911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION COVID-19 is an unprecedented public health threat in modern times, especially for older adults or those with chronic illness. Beyond the threat of infection, the pandemic may also have longer-term impacts on mental and physical health. The COVID-19 & Chronic Conditions ('C3') study offers a unique opportunity to assess psychosocial and health/healthcare trajectories over 5 years among a diverse cohort of adults with comorbidities well-characterised from before the pandemic, at its onset, through multiple surges, vaccine rollouts and through the gradual easing of restrictions as society slowly returns to 'normal'. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The C3 study is an extension of an ongoing longitudinal cohort study of 'high-risk' adults (aged 23-88 at baseline) with one or more chronic medical conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Five active studies with uniform data collection prior to COVID-19 were leveraged to establish the C3 cohort; 673 adults in Chicago were interviewed during the first week of the outbreak. The C3 cohort has since expanded to include 1044 participants across eight survey waves (T1-T8). Four additional survey waves (T9-T12) will be conducted via telephone interviews spaced 1 year apart and supplemented by electronic health record and pharmacy fill data, for a total of 5 years of data post pandemic onset. Measurement will include COVID-19-related attitudes/behaviours, mental health, social behaviour, lifestyle/health behaviours, healthcare use, chronic disease self-management and health outcomes. Mental health trajectories and associations with health behaviours/outcomes will be examined in a series of latent group and mixed effects modelling, while also examining mediating and moderating factors. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study was approved by Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine Institutional Review Board (STU00215360). Results will be published in international peer-reviewed journals and summaries will be provided to the funders of the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Lovett
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sarah Filec
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Morgan Bonham
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Julia Yoshino Benavente
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Rachel O'Conor
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Andrea Russell
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Pauline Zheng
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Guisselle Wismer
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Esther Yoon
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sophia Weiner-Light
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Abigail Vogeley
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Mary Morrissey Kwasny
- Preventive Medicine (Biostatistics), Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sarah Lowe
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Laura M Curtis
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Alex Federman
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Stacy C Bailey
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Michael Wolf
- General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Center for Applied Health Research on Aging, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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48
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Mikneviciute G, Allaert J, Pulopulos MM, De Raedt R, Kliegel M, Ballhausen N. Acute stress impacts reaction times in older but not in young adults in a flanker task. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17690. [PMID: 37848597 PMCID: PMC10582047 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-44356-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute psychosocial stress effects on inhibition have been investigated in young adults, but little is known about these effects in older adults. The present study investigated effects of the Trier Social Stress Test on cognitive inhibition (i.e., ability to ignore distracting information) using a cross-over (stress vs. control) design in healthy young (N = 50; 18-30 years; Mage = 23.06) versus older adults (N = 50; 65-84 years; Mage = 71.12). Cognitive inhibition was measured by a letter flanker task and psychophysiological measures (cortisol, heart rate, subjective stress) validated the stress induction. The results showed that while stress impaired overall accuracy across age groups and sessions, stress (vs. control) made older adults' faster in session 1 and slower in session 2. Given that session 2 effects were likely confounded by practice effects, these results suggest that acute psychosocial stress improved older adults' RTs on a novel flanker task but impaired RTs on a practiced flanker task. That is, the interaction between stress and learning effects might negatively affect response execution when testing older adults on flanker tasks. If confirmed by future research, these results might have important implications especially in settings where repeated cognitive testing is performed under acute stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Mikneviciute
- NCCR LIVES-Overcoming Vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives, Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Boulevard du Pont d'Arve 28, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Jens Allaert
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University, University Hospital Ghent (UZ Ghent), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Matias M Pulopulos
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rudi De Raedt
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Ghent Experimental Psychiatry Lab, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University, University Hospital Ghent (UZ Ghent), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Matthias Kliegel
- NCCR LIVES-Overcoming Vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives, Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Boulevard du Pont d'Arve 28, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Ballhausen
- Centre for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Boulevard du Pont d'Arve 28, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Developmental Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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49
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Strizzi JM, Pavan S, Frederiksen EL, Andersson M, Graugaard C, Frisch M, Hald GM. Symptoms of anxiety and depression in Denmark during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic: A two-wave matched-control study. Scand J Psychol 2023; 64:563-573. [PMID: 37137485 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Subsequent to the restriction measures taken to curb the COVID-19 infection rate, researchers theorized these would have detrimental mental health consequences. This two-wave matched-control study investigates depression and anxiety symptoms during the first 12 months of the pandemic (March 2020-March 2021) in Denmark with data from the I-SHARE and Project SEXUS studies. The I-SHARE study includes 1,302 (Time period 1 only n = 914, Time period 2 only n = 304, both time periods 1 and2 n = 84) Danish participants, and the sex and birth year-matched control participants from the Project SEXUS study comprise 9,980 Danes. During the first year of the pandemic, the study populations' anxiety and depression symptom mean levels did not significantly differ from pre-pandemic matched controls. Younger age, female gender, fewer children in the same household (depression only), lower education level, and not being in a relationship (depression only) were associated with increased anxiety and depression symptom scores. The key COVID-19-related variable linked with significantly higher anxiety and depression symptom scores was COVID-19-related loss of income. Contrary to initial concerns, we did not find a significant effect of the pandemic on anxiety and depression symptom scores. However, the results underscore the importance of structural resources to prevent income loss to safeguard mental health during crises such as a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Pavan
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Mikael Andersson
- Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christian Graugaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Center for Sexology Research, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Morten Frisch
- Department of Epidemiology Research, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Center for Sexology Research, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Gert Martin Hald
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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50
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Hatch S, Finlayson M, Rej S, Kessler D. Virtually-Delivered Emotion Focused Mindfulness Therapy (EFMT) Group vs. Wait-List Control for Late-Life Anxiety: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2023; 31:767-782. [PMID: 37169708 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2023.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The worldwide annual prevalence of anxiety in older adults is estimated to be between 6% and 10%. Emotion Focused Mindfulness Therapy (EFMT) is a mindfulness-based group intervention that has been demonstrated to reduce symptoms of anxiety in community dwelling adults. No study has yet assessed EFMT for older adults with late-life anxiety. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of video-delivered group EFMT for older adults living in community settings, a novel and potentially scalable intervention. METHODS This was a feasibility randomized controlled trial (RCT) of 48 older adults (≥55 years old), recruited through primary care, community organizations and snowball methods. Participants were randomized to group EFMT delivered by Zoom vs. a wait-list control. Data were collected at baseline (T1), 9 weeks following baseline (T2, primary study endpoint) and 17 weeks following baseline (T3). Random allocation was conducted immediately after each group of 12 participants had been enrolled into the trial, with groups beginning on a rolling basis each time a block of 12 participants had been enrolled. The main efficacy outcome examined changes over time to anxiety. RESULTS Recruitment was successfully completed in 32 weeks. Enrollment was calculated at 62.3% (48 of 77 people screened). Retention (80.0%) and adherence (100.0% for intervention group participants) were excellent. The EFMT group had significant improvements in anxiety at T2 compared to the wait-list control group (-3.47 [4.12] vs.-1.22 [3.25] points, p = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Virtually-delivered EFMT appears to be a feasible, acceptable, and efficacious group treatment to improve late-life anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey Hatch
- Aging and Health Program (SH, MF, DK), School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
| | - Marcia Finlayson
- Aging and Health Program (SH, MF, DK), School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Soham Rej
- Department of Psychiatry (SR), Lady Davis Institute/Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Dorothy Kessler
- Aging and Health Program (SH, MF, DK), School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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