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Spalding DM, Hart R, Henderson R, Nicholls LAB. Age moderates associations between dementia worry and subjective cognition. Cogn Emot 2024:1-19. [PMID: 38973175 DOI: 10.1080/02699931.2024.2371095] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
The present study assessed whether dementia worry is associated with adults' subjective cognitive difficulties, and whether any associations are moderated by age. Participants were 477 adults aged 18-90 years. They completed standard, subjective measures of dementia worry and everyday cognitive difficulties (i.e. attention, language, verbal and visual-spatial memory, and visual-perceptual ability). Moderated regression analyses included dementia worry as a predictor of specific cognitive difficulties, and age as a moderator. Covariates included gender, trait cognitive and somatic anxiety, general aging-related anxiety, depression, stress, mental health treatment status, and health status. Greater overall dementia worry, and specifically more frequent dementia worry, were both associated with greater attentional difficulty in middle-aged and older adults, but not in young adults. Cognitions about developing dementia in reaction to memory lapses were also associated with greater cognitive difficulties across the adult lifespan for multiple cognitive domains. Results highlight a robust relationship between dementia worry and subjective attentional difficulties, especially in middle-aged and older adults. Worry frequency is also more influential with adult aging. A cognitive or meta-cognitive mechanism may underlie subjective cognitive concerns across the adult lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Spalding
- Department of Psychological Sciences and Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Rebecca Hart
- Department of Psychological Sciences and Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Robyn Henderson
- Department of Psychological Sciences and Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
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AboJabel H, Werner P. Validating the Hebrew Version of the Modified Dementia Worry Scale (H-MDWS). J Cross Cult Gerontol 2024; 39:73-88. [PMID: 38112907 DOI: 10.1007/s10823-023-09494-2] [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] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
The body of knowledge regarding dementia worry - people's sense of threat about developing dementia - is still limited. Additional studies are essential to better understand levels of dementia worry and its correlates, especially in cross-cultural contexts. To reach this goal, it is critical to use structured and valid measures to assess dementia worry and to verify these measures in different languages. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Hebrew version of the Modified Dementia Worry Scale (the H-MDWS). A cross-sectional study using an online survey was conducted with 368 Israeli laypeople who were 18 years of age or older (53% women, 76% Jewish, mean age = 40, average years of education = 14). In addition to the H-MDWS, participants were asked to report their fear of Alzheimer's disease (using a dichotomous single item), stigma, health anxiety, and demographic characteristics. Reliability analyses showed that the Cronbach's alpha for the H-MDWS was excellent (α = 0.95). The results of the factor analysis demonstrated that the scale has a unidimensional structure, explaining over 66% of the variance. In addition, we found significant correlations between fear of developing Alzheimer's disease, stigma, and health anxiety, on the one hand, and the H-MDWS on the other. The H-MDWS is a reliable and valid tool for assessing dementia worry. The validation of the tool not only allows expanding the body of knowledge related to dementia worry, but will also allow professionals and caregivers to identify people who are at risk of reporting dementia worry and develop interventions accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanan AboJabel
- The Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Perla Werner
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Allen JO, Sikora N. Aging Stigma and the Health of US Adults Over 65: What Do We Know? Clin Interv Aging 2023; 18:2093-2116. [PMID: 38116457 PMCID: PMC10729833 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s396833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
This narrative review assessed the current state of research on aging stigma and health relevant to US adults ages 65 and older. We adopted a stigma framework to highlight aging stigma as a meaningful social construct and the complex ways in which it may be harmful for health. We identified 29 studies of various types (experimental, intervention, cross-sectional quantitative, longitudinal quantitative, and qualitative) published between 2010 and 2023 that investigated relationships between concepts related to aging stigma and health. Aging stigma was associated with poor short- and long-term health outcomes spanning cognition, psychological wellbeing, physical health, and hospitalizations. The premise that aging stigma is harmful to health was moderately well supported, while evidence that health influenced aging stigma was weak. Collectively, studies provided insight into several mechanisms through which aging stigma may affect the health of older US adults, while also highlighting areas for future research. Potential strategies for addressing aging stigma as a public health hazard were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Ober Allen
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA
- Research Center for Group Dynamics, Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nadine Sikora
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA
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Xu L, Fields NL, Cassidy J, Daniel KM, Cipher DJ, Troutman BA. Attitudes toward Aging among College Students: Results from an Intergenerational Reminiscence Project. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:538. [PMID: 37503985 PMCID: PMC10376671 DOI: 10.3390/bs13070538] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The detrimental effects of negative attitudes toward aging among younger adults extend to both older and young adults, highlighting the need for attention from academics, applied researchers, and practitioners. To improve college students' attitudes toward aging, an intergenerational reminiscence intervention was conducted. College students, who were randomized to intervention or control groups and matched with older adults, made weekly phone calls to community-dwelling older adults with cognitive impairment for ten weeks. This study investigated whether college students improved their attitudes toward aging after participating in this project. A total of 64 college student participants completed the whole intervention and all data collection. The Fraboni Scale of Ageism was used to measure attitudes toward aging and administered at three time points (pre-, mid-, and post-test). Parametric and nonparametric tests were examined to understand changes over time, and post-hoc analyses were conducted to understand timepoints in which changes occurred. The results showed that both the intervention and control groups evidenced a decrease in the majority of the ageism scale, including statistical improvements in three specific negative items, which were "Seniors are stingy and hoard money", "Seniors live in the past", and "I prefer not to spend time with seniors". Overall, the findings indicate that weekly engagement with older adults is promising in improving attitudes toward aging among college students. Implications for future research on intergenerational contacts to improve attitudes toward aging are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Xu
- School of Social Work, University of Texas at Arlington, 501 W. Mitchell Street, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Noelle L Fields
- School of Social Work, University of Texas at Arlington, 501 W. Mitchell Street, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Jessica Cassidy
- School of Social Work, University of Texas at Arlington, 501 W. Mitchell Street, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Kathryn M Daniel
- College of Nursing and Health Innovation, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Daisha J Cipher
- College of Nursing and Health Innovation, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX 76019, USA
| | - Brooke A Troutman
- McDermott Library, United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO 80840, USA
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Marhánková JH. The role of dementia and Alzheimer's disease in older adults' representations of aging and anxieties regarding one's own future. J Aging Stud 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaging.2023.101127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
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Zhang J, Liu X, Gong D, Peng Y, Li H, Yang Y. Health beliefs, lifestyle, and cognitive aging among Chinese community residents: A structural equation model analysis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1028679. [PMID: 36536778 PMCID: PMC9758699 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1028679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lifestyle factors may could help maintain cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia. The application of the Health Belief Model (HBM) has been verified by incorporating lifestyle changes for dementia risk reduction; however, the influence of health beliefs on cognitive aging through lifestyle remains unknown. To facilitate research-based interventions to promote successful cognitive aging, we explored the relationship between health beliefs, lifestyle, and cognitive aging based on the HBM using path analysis. Methods This cross-sectional study recruited middle-aged and older community residents from a community health service center in Chongqing, China, through convenience sampling. Motivation to Change Lifestyle and Health Behaviors for Dementia Risk Reduction (MCLHB-DRR), Lifestyle for Dementia Risk Reduction (LDRR), and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) were employed to measure participants' beliefs, lifestyle, and cognitive function, respectively. The associations between the beliefs, lifestyle, and cognitive function were analyzed, and a structural equation model was constructed. Results A total of 202 participants completed the questionnaires, of whom only 17 (8.4%) were classified as having successful cognitive aging. The model demonstrated the data to have an acceptable fit and elucidated 39.3 and 18.2% of the variance in lifestyle and the grade of cognitive aging, respectively. Positive and negative beliefs had opposite effects on the grade of cognitive aging through lifestyle. Cues to action had opposite effects on the grades of cognitive aging through positive and negative beliefs; however, the total effects canceled each other out. Conclusions Positive beliefs have a positive effect on lifestyle, thereby promoting successful cognitive aging, whereas negative beliefs have a negative effect on lifestyle, thereby hindering successful cognitive aging. Health education and media publicity, as specific aspects of cues to action, can have a meaningful impact on healthy behavior and successful cognitive aging by promoting positive beliefs and controlling negative beliefs. The model suggests the strengthening and weakening of the positive and negative beliefs, respectively, of middle-aged and older community residents in the formulation of relevant public health strategies in the future, thereby enabling them to adapt to a healthy lifestyle promoting successful cognitive aging.
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Frechman E, Dietrich MS, Buck HG, Rhoten BA, Maxwell CA. PLAN: Preparing and Living for Aging Now; A descriptive study invesitigating older adults' readiness to plan for aging and frailty. Geriatr Nurs 2022; 47:164-170. [PMID: 35914494 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2022.07.008] [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: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Many older adults want to age in place but do not make plans. Understanding how and under what conditions adults prepare/plan ahead is vital given population aging and increasing frailty. This study examines the stages of change and experiences (personal/others) related to readiness to plan for aging and frailty. METHODS Descriptive cross-sectional. SETTING Community-dwelling. PARTICIPANTS Adults aged 50-80(N = 252). DATA COLLECTION demographics, other characteristics, stages of change, experiences (personal/others) was assessed with survey questions. DATA ANALYSIS frequencies/percentages, McNemar test, Chi-square. RESULTS Among domains, participants' percentages in action/maintenance stages ranged from 28.2% (cognitive) to 68.7% (financial). Participants had increased experience with others across domains rather than self. Older participants (≥ 70) vs. younger (50-69) reported statistically significant greater planning in action/maintenance stages for all domains (p < .05) with the exception of cognitive. DISCUSSION Examining the concept of planning for aging and frailty provides a foundation for future work to develop/test interventions aimed at increasing readiness for aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Frechman
- Atrium Health 920 Church St N., Concord, NC 28025, United States.
| | - Mary S Dietrich
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine & School of Nursing, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Harleah G Buck
- Csomay Center for Gerontological Excellence, University of Iowa College of Nursing, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Bethany A Rhoten
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Cathy A Maxwell
- Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, Nashville, TN, United States
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Self-perceptions of ageing and perceived health status: the mediating role of cognitive functioning and physical activity. AGEING & SOCIETY 2022. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x22000332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
There is evidence that perceived health status is relevant for older adults' wellbeing, and at the same time perceived health status can be influenced by self-perceptions of ageing. There is a lack of studies on the relationship between these variables. The aim of this study was to explore attitudes towards ageing and self-perceptions of ageing among Spanish middle-aged and older people, and to identify possible mediators in the relationship between self-perceptions of ageing on perceived health status. The sample comprised 1,124 individuals from 50 to 98 years old (mean = 64.84, standard deviation = 10.12) from the Ageing in Spain Longitudinal Study database, Pilot Survey (ELES-PS). Almost 70 per cent of the participants stated that old age begins at a specific chronological age and half of them considered that society treats older people with indifference. Self-perceptions of ageing, physical activity, cognitive functioning and age were significant predictors, and together these variables explained 15.9 per cent in the variance of perceived health status. The multiple mediation analysis revealed that self-perceptions of ageing predicted cognitive functioning (B = 0.848, p < 0.01) and physical activity (B = 2.9046, p < 0.001), and mediated the association between self-perceptions of ageing and perceived health status (B = 0.1144, standard error = 0.0147, p < 0.01). Results from this study highlight the importance of perceptions and attitudes towards ageing for older adults' health and wellbeing, thus this study contributes to a better understanding of how these variables are related. In this sense, results from this study can be useful for designing interventions for fostering wellbeing. Addressing negative self-perceptions of ageing and negative attitudes towards ageing can be particularly useful because they are associated with more pessimistic expectancies about the ageing process.
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Addressing Ageism—Be Active in Aging: Study Protocol. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12030354. [PMID: 35330354 PMCID: PMC8954157 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12030354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ageism refers to stereotyping (how we think), prejudice (how we feel), and discrimination (how we act) against people based on their age. It is a serious public health issue that can negatively impact older people’s health and quality of life. The present protocol has several goals: (1) adapt the Ambivalent Ageism Scale for the general Portuguese population and healthcare professionals; (2) assess the factorial invariance of the questionnaire between general population vs. healthcare professionals; (3) evaluate the level of ageism and its predictors in the general population and evaluate the level of ageism and its predictors in healthcare professionals; (4) compare the levels of ageism between groups and the invariance between groups regarding the explanatory model of predictors of ageism. This quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive, observational study will be developed in partnership with several Healthcare Professional Boards/Associations, National Geriatrics and Gerontology Associations, and the Universities of the Third Age Network Association. The web-based survey will be conducted on a convenience sample recruited via various social media and institutional channels. The survey consists of three questionnaires: (1) Demographic data; (2) Ambivalent Ageism Scale; (3) Palmore-Neri and Cachioni questionnaire. The methodology of this study will include translation, pilot testing, semantic adjustment, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and multigroup analysis of the Ambivalent Ageism Scale. Data will be treated using International Business Machines Corporation (IBM®) Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software and Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS). Descriptive analysis will be conducted to assess the level of ageism in the study sample. The ageism levels between the two groups will be compared using the t-student test, and two Structural Equation Modeling will be developed to evaluate the predictors of ageism. Assessing ageism is necessary to allow healthcare professionals and policymakers to design and implement strategies to solve or reduce this issue. Findings from this study will generate knowledge relevant to healthcare and medical courses along with anti-ageism education for the Portuguese population.
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Liu M, Sun F, Lu C, Xie J. The Influence of Dementia Beliefs and Knowledge on Perceived Dementia Worry: An Empirical Study Among Adults in Rural China. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen 2022; 37:15333175221112143. [PMID: 35836409 PMCID: PMC10581137 DOI: 10.1177/15333175221112143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease and related dementias are more prevalent in rural areas than in urban areas in China. This study aims to examine the role of dementia beliefs and knowledge in influencing dementia worry among rural adults in China. Data were generated in a cross-sectional survey of 577 participants. Hierarchical regression analyses found that both the beliefs and knowledge of dementia contributed to higher levels of dementia worry. The propensity score matching method affirmed the robustness of regression results. In addition, those aged 45-64 reported higher worry about dementia than those aged 65 or older, while being married was related to lower dementia worry. As one of the first kind studies that examined dementia worry in rural Chinese population, our findings suggest that policy and practice efforts should address cultural beliefs of dementia as they contributed to higher worry about dementia in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Liu
- Department of Sociology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Fei Sun
- School of Social Work, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Chuntian Lu
- Department of Sociology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jinchen Xie
- Department of Sociology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
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Xu W. The stigma of dementia and the media: An analysis of reality shows about older people with dementia running a pop-up restaurant. J Aging Stud 2021; 59:100967. [PMID: 34794712 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaging.2021.100967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
It has been argued that older people living with dementia often experience stigma. Several media interventions have been designed to raise public awareness about dementia, as well as to de-stigmatise the condition and people living with it; however, few studies have investigated how media interventions may serve to reduce stigma. The present study focused on a Chinese reality show, Forget Me Not Café, which brought together five older people (aged 65 and older) living with dementia to run a pop-up restaurant and intended to reduce the stigma of dementia. The study aimed to explore how the reality show cast talk (or write) about dementia in older people. This study performed a thematic analysis on the written and spoken content about how the show presented dementia in older people. Four discursive themes were identified, including: age as a risk factor for dementia; early signs and symptoms of dementia in older people; the pressure on the family of people with dementia; and expectations of people living with dementia. The findings of this study show that the views of the reality show cast highlight the capability of older people with dementia to communicate effectively and live with the condition, their personal goals of sustaining a happy, meaningful, and sociable life, and the actions they took to positively influence personal circumstances. The findings also indicate that this reality show might help reduce the stigma of dementia and empower older people living with dementia, while it also tends to stress the responsibility for care on family carers and shift the responsibility of managing the dementia-related challenges to older people living with dementia. These suggest a neoliberal tenet of personal responsibility for health in China. Given the media's role in reflecting and shaping perceptions and attitudes towards dementia and people living with it, this study contributes to a greater understanding of the ways in which reality shows can be used to promote awareness and challenge the stigma of dementia and arguably other conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqian Xu
- Division of Ageing and Social Change, Department of Culture and Society, Linköping University, Sweden.
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Fear about Alzheimer's disease among Israeli and German laypersons, persons with Mild Neurocognitive Disorder and their relatives: a qualitative study. Int Psychogeriatr 2021; 33:1019-1034. [PMID: 33046144 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610220003397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common type of dementia, is one of the most feared diseases, obstructing help-seeking, and leading to discrimination. While research interest in fear of developing AD is increasing, little is known about its characterization, triggers, and consequences, especially among different cultures. In this study, we aimed at exploring and characterizing AD fear as experienced by laypersons (LP), persons with Mild Neurocognitive Disorder (MND), and their relatives, in Israel and Germany. DESIGN A qualitative study using focus groups (FGs) and semi-structured interviews was used. Thematic content analysis was conducted to extract key themes. SETTING Israeli and German not yet diagnosed people. PARTICIPANTS The study included a total of 130 participants (63 Israeli and 67 German participants) representing 3 groups: LP (n = 82), persons with MND (n = 28), and relatives of persons with MND (n = 20). RESULTS Two overarching themes were identified across groups and countries: fear of developing AD and fear of stigmatization. Other types of fear, such as fear of a person with AD, fear about the impact of a diagnosis of AD on family members, fear of becoming a caregiver, and fear of losing one's self-determination because of developing AD, were specific to a group type or country. Different types of fear were awakened by different triggers, and were dealt with different coping strategies.
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Studer-Luethi B, Brasser M, Lusti S, Schaerli R. A cross-sectional survey of a public, evidence-based multimodal program for cognitive health in older adults. Arch Public Health 2021; 79:165. [PMID: 34530899 PMCID: PMC8443915 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-021-00670-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent decades, the proportion of older adults in the population has continued to rise, and with it, the need for intervention programs to maintain cognitive functions into old age. Multiple lifestyle factors, including physical, cognitive, and social activities, are crucial to forestalling a decline in cognitive functions. However, Covid-19 curtailed most activities, and therefore, strategies are needed to support older adults in remaining cognitively healthy. This study describes a newly developed and publicly available multimodal program, called "brain coach", to support and stimulate cognitive activity in older adults. The autonomy supportive program integrates into daily life recommendations for evidence-based physical, cognitive, social, mindful, and creative activation exercises. METHODS The study design corresponds to a correlational, analytical, and cross-sectional study with 660 older adults, who participated in the program for at least 3 months and completed an online survey. RESULTS The survey results demonstrate that the average age of the participants was 71 years and 75 % were female. Participants experienced benefits in memory, well-being, attitudes towards the brain, and lifestyle habits. Importantly, time invested in the intervention and participant's positive attitude toward brain health and neuroplasticity, show positive relationships with the experienced benefits. CONCLUSIONS The results reveal the potential of a public program with a multimodal approach to increase cognitive health and promote an active lifestyle. Further research will explore the effects of such a multimodal intervention in a longitudinal randomized controlled trial study.
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Maxfield M, Greenberg J. Anticipated Stigma and Dementia-Related Anxiety in Middle-Aged and Older Adults. GEROPSYCH 2021; 34:13-22. [PMID: 34276334 PMCID: PMC8281981 DOI: 10.1024/1662-9647/a000234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Heightened awareness and perceived negativity of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) may increase health-related concerns about developing ADRD, also called dementia-related anxiety. Anticipating greater levels of ADRD stigma was expected to be associated with greater dementia-related anxiety. Middle-aged and older adults (N = 183, aged 40-80, M = 59.57) responded to online questionnaires about anticipated ADRD stigma, ADRD exposure, dementia-related anxiety, and potential psychosocial correlates of dementia-related anxiety. Multivariate regression analyses revealed that self-perceived ADRD risk, ADRD exposure, and anticipated stigma remained significantly associated with dementia-related anxiety, after controlling for demographic variables. Reducing ADRD stigma may ease dementia-related anxiety, an area for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Maxfield
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, CO, USA
| | - Jeff Greenberg
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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15
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Caughie C, Bean P, Tiede P, Cobb J, McFarland C, Hall S. Dementia Worry and Neuropsychological Performance in Healthy Older Adults. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2021; 36:29-36. [PMID: 32793959 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acaa057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Dementia is one of the most feared diseases in American society. However, limited research exists regarding how worrying about dementia may influence peoples' cognitive abilities. The current study examines how dementia worry affects performance on neuropsychological domains of executive function, memory, attention, and processing speed in a healthy older adult population. METHOD Participants (n = 40) were screened for depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (PHQ-8, scores > 10 were excluded) and for mild cognitive impairment using the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS, scores < 32 were excluded). All participants were administered common neuropsychological tests of executive function, memory, attention, and processing speed. Participants were also asked to complete the Dementia Worry Scale (DWS), a measure assessing the level of dementia worry individuals experience in daily life. RESULTS A multivariate effect of dementia worry on neuropsychological measures of executive function was supported. Specifically, higher levels of dementia worry were significantly related to poorer performance on combined measures of executive function (Wilk's Lambda = 0.821, F (2, 36) = 3.934, p = .028). CONCLUSIONS Dementia worry significantly affects scores on specific neuropsychological measures. Inasmuch, dementia worry may have both functional implications for older adults, as well as assessment implications for practicing neuropsychologists. Further research is necessary to parse apart whether dementia worry represents a psychological variable affecting cognitive performance and/or serves as an early marker of cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cali Caughie
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Phoebe Bean
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Paul Tiede
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Joshua Cobb
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Craig McFarland
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Stuart Hall
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
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Krivanek TJ, Gale SA, McFeeley BM, Nicastri CM, Daffner KR. Promoting Successful Cognitive Aging: A Ten-Year Update. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 81:871-920. [PMID: 33935078 PMCID: PMC8293659 DOI: 10.3233/jad-201462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A decade has passed since we published a comprehensive review in this journal addressing the topic of promoting successful cognitive aging, making this a good time to take stock of the field. Because there have been limited large-scale, randomized controlled trials, especially following individuals from middle age to late life, some experts have questioned whether recommendations can be legitimately offered about reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Despite uncertainties, clinicians often need to at least make provisional recommendations to patients based on the highest quality data available. Converging lines of evidence from epidemiological/cohort studies, animal/basic science studies, human proof-of-concept studies, and human intervention studies can provide guidance, highlighting strategies for enhancing cognitive reserve and preventing loss of cognitive capacity. Many of the suggestions made in 2010 have been supported by additional research. Importantly, there is a growing consensus among major health organizations about recommendations to mitigate cognitive decline and promote healthy cognitive aging. Regular physical activity and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors have been supported by all of these organizations. Most organizations have also embraced cognitively stimulating activities, a heart-healthy diet, smoking cessation, and countering metabolic syndrome. Other behaviors like regular social engagement, limiting alcohol use, stress management, getting adequate sleep, avoiding anticholinergic medications, addressing sensory deficits, and protecting the brain against physical and toxic damage also have been endorsed, although less consistently. In this update, we review the evidence for each of these recommendations and offer practical advice about behavior-change techniques to help patients adopt brain-healthy behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor J. Krivanek
- Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Seth A. Gale
- Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brittany M. McFeeley
- Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Casey M. Nicastri
- Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kirk R. Daffner
- Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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Read S, Comas-Herrera A, Grundy E. Social Isolation and Memory Decline in Later-life. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2020; 75:367-376. [PMID: 31781769 PMCID: PMC6963696 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbz152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate associations between level and changes in social isolation and in memory in older men and women. METHODS The sample included 6,123 women and 5,110 men aged 50+ from the English Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSA). Extended latent change score models from six measurement occasions every 2 years from 2002 were used to investigate associations between social isolation and memory. Models were adjusted for age, socioeconomic position, and health. RESULTS Social isolation increased and memory decreased over time. Among men an initially high level of social isolation was associated with a somewhat greater decrease in memory. Among women a greater increase in social isolation predicted a greater decrease in memory and a larger change in social isolation was associated with further larger changes in isolation, although when social isolation reached a higher level it subsequently decreased. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that the association between social isolation and memory decline arises because social isolation is associated with increased memory decline rather than poor memory leading to increases in social isolation. Men with high levels of social isolation and women with accumulated social isolation over time are especially affected as these patterns of isolation were associated with more profound memory decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanna Read
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK
| | - Adelina Comas-Herrera
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK
| | - Emily Grundy
- Institute for Social and Economic Research, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
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Werner P, AboJabel H, Maxfield M. Conceptualization, measurement and correlates of dementia worry: A scoping review. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2020; 92:104246. [PMID: 32980573 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2020.104246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The combination of a growing population of older adults and increasing prevalence and awareness of dementia diagnoses suggests that dementia worry may also intensify. As a relatively new area of investigation, the dementia worry literature is growing, but variability in definitions and measurement continue. A scoping review was conducted to gather and examine existing research, as well as assist in guiding future studies in this area. The review focused on characterizing the conceptualization, measurement, and correlates of dementia worry. METHODS Using PubMed, CINAHL, AgeLine, and PsycINFO, a search of literature concerning dementia worry was completed. RESULTS A total of 45 articles examining dementia worry fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Most studies were cross-sectional (n = 39), quantitative (n = 38), and conducted in the United States (n = 22). Inconsistencies in the conceptualization, measurement, and correlates examined make it difficult to determine the meaning and true levels of dementia worry. CONCLUSIONS Recent attention to dementia worry has increased awareness of the basic concept and its correlates. However, the lack of unity in the definition and measurement of dementia worry impedes advancement in this research area, as well as in establishing its clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perla Werner
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Israel.
| | - Hanan AboJabel
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Israel.
| | - Molly Maxfield
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, USA.
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An Q, Wang K, Sun F, Zhang A. The effectiveness of modified, group-based CBT for dementia worry among Chinese elders. J Affect Disord 2020; 274:76-84. [PMID: 32469835 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.05.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Dementias are highly prevalent among Chinese elders. This study examined the effectiveness of a modified group cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on dementia worry among Chinese older adults. METHODS Eighty-two older adults recruited from four elder group homes were randomly assigned to either intervention or control group. The intervention group (n= 44) received eight weekly 60-minute face-to-face CBT, while the control group (n=38) received treatment-as-usual. RESULTS Outcomes indicated that the modified group CBT has significantly reduced dementia worry and culturally biased beliefs about dementia (p<.001). Study findings supported both statistically and clinically significant effect of modified group CBT on dementia worry [g=-1.52, 95% CI (-2.01, -1.03)] and biased beliefs about dementia [g=-.95, 95% CI (-1.40, -.49)]. DISCUSSION The culturally adapted CBT is promising in alleviating worries and anxiety over dementia among Chinese older adults. Future research needs to include larger samples and participants from different regions to replicate findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuling An
- East China Normal University, School of Social Development, 500 DongChuan Rd., Shanghai, China
| | - Kaipeng Wang
- University of Denver, Graduate School of Social Work, Denver, CO, USA.
| | - Fei Sun
- Michigan State University, School of Social Work, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Anao Zhang
- University of Michigan, School of Social Work, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Barber SJ. The Applied Implications of Age-Based Stereotype Threat for Older Adults. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN MEMORY AND COGNITION 2020; 9:274-285. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jarmac.2020.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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21
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Questionnaire measures of self-directed ageing stereotype in older adults: a systematic review of measurement properties. Eur J Ageing 2020; 18:117-144. [PMID: 33746687 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-020-00574-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The population is ageing, but while average life expectancy continues to increase, healthy life expectancy has not necessarily matched this and negative ageing stereotypes remain prevalent. Self-directed ageing stereotypes are hypothesised to play an important role in older adults' health and well-being; however, a wide variety of terms and measures are used to explore this construct meaning there is a lack of clarity within the literature. A review was conducted to identify tools used to measure self-directed ageing stereotype in older adults and evaluate their quality. Searches identified 109 papers incorporating 40 different measures. Most common were the Philadelphia Geriatric Centre Morale Scale Attitude Towards Own Ageing (ATOA) subscale, Ageing Perceptions Questionnaire (APQ) and Attitudes to Ageing Questionnaire. Despite being most frequently used, the ATOA was developed to measure morale in older adults rather than self-directed ageing stereotypes. Over 25 terms were used to describe the concept, and it is suggested that for consistency the term "self-directed ageing stereotype" be adopted universally. Across measures, poor reporting of psychometric properties made it difficult to assess scale quality and more research is needed to fully assess measures before conclusions can be drawn as to the best tool; however, the Brief-APQ appears to hold most promise. Future research must address this issue before interventions to reduce negative self-directed ageing stereotypes can be developed and fully evaluated.
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Quercetin mitigates monosodium glutamate-induced excitotoxicity of the spinal cord motoneurons in aged rats via p38 MAPK inhibition. Acta Histochem 2020; 122:151554. [PMID: 32622428 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2020.151554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Various studies reported the possibility of deterioration of blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity owing to the aging process. The current work was performed to investigate the ability of Monosodium glutamate (MSG) to cross BBB in aged rats, the damage affecting the anterior horn cells of the spinal cord due to excitotoxicity, and the mechanisms by which quercetin (Que) administration might suppress such damage. Forty male rats aged 18 months were assigned equally to 4 groups: control group, Que group (received Que, 20 mg/kg/d intraperitonealy for 10 days), MSG group (received MSG, 4.0 g/kg/d subcutaneously for 10 days), MSG + Que group (received both Que and MSG as done in the Que and MSG groups respectively). Cervical spinal cord specimens were obtained and prepared for routine histological study, immunohistochemical staining by caspase-3 and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), assessment of oxidative stress, measurement of cytokines, assessment of caspase-3 activity and GFAP levels as well as for western blotting of phosphorylated activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2pp) as an indicator for the activity of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). The MSG group revealed variable degenerative and apoptotic changes in the motoneurons and neuroglia, a marked rise in the cytoplasmic caspase-3 expression in motoneurons and a significant reduction (p < 0.001) in the astrocyte surface area percentage. In addition, the spinal cord tissue exhibited a significant elevation (p < 0.001) in the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), IL-1, IL-6, TNFα, INFɣ, caspase-3 activity and ATF2 pp expression as well as a significant reduction (p < 0.001) in SOD, IL-10 and GFAP levels compared with the control group. On combining Que with MSG, most of the degenerative changes were reversed and all the impaired parameters were nearly normalized except for IL-6 and GFAP levels which were still significantly (p < 0.05) different from those of the control group. Our study suggests that MSG can break through the BBB of the aged rats and induce excitotoxicity dependent changes in spinal cord motoneurons. Most of these changes were reversed by Que probably via targeting the p38 MAPK-ATF2 pathway, antagonizing oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory effect, and promoting GFAP expression.
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Schwartz HE, Bay CP, McFeeley BM, Krivanek TJ, Daffner KR, Gale SA. The Brain Health Champion study: Health coaching changes behaviors in patients with cognitive impairment. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2019; 5:771-779. [PMID: 31763431 PMCID: PMC6861624 DOI: 10.1016/j.trci.2019.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Converging evidence suggests that increasing healthy behaviors may slow or prevent cognitive decline. METHODS We piloted a six-month, randomized, controlled investigation of 40 patients with mild dementia, mild cognitive impairment, or subjective cognitive decline. The intervention consisted of weekly motivational interviewing phone calls and three visits with a "Brain Health Champion" health coach, who guided participants to achieve personalized goals. Changes in behavior were measured using validated questionnaires. RESULTS Compared with the standard-of-care control group, Brain Health Champion participants had statistically significant and clinically meaningful increases in physical activity (Cohen's d = 1.37, P < .001), adherence to the Mediterranean diet (Cohen's d = 0.87, P = .016), cognitive/social activity (Cohen's d = 1.09, P = .003), and quality of life (Cohen's d = 1.23, P < .001). The magnitude of behavior change strongly predicted improvement in quality of life. DISCUSSION Our results demonstrate the feasibility and potential efficacy of a health coaching approach in changing health behaviors in cognitively impaired and at-risk patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hope E.M. Schwartz
- Department of Neurology, Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Camden P. Bay
- Center for Clinical Investigation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brittany M. McFeeley
- Department of Neurology, Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Taylor J. Krivanek
- Department of Neurology, Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kirk R. Daffner
- Department of Neurology, Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Seth A. Gale
- Department of Neurology, Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Hale Building for Transformative Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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Older Adults With Subjective Cognitive Decline Worry About the Emotional Impact of Cognitive Test Results. Alzheimer Dis Assoc Disord 2019; 34:135-140. [DOI: 10.1097/wad.0000000000000354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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25
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Chen MC, Lin HR. The lived experiences of elderly dementia patients in Taiwan. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2019; 28:784-792. [PMID: 30779290 DOI: 10.1111/inm.12583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The lived experiences of elderly dementia patients are affected by their cultural beliefs. This study aims to explore the lived experiences of elderly dementia patients in Taiwan in order to understand how they view their lives given the cognitive impairments that they suffer from. A descriptive phenomenological approach was undertaken in 12 elderly dementia patients who were selected using purposive sampling. Data were analysed using Colaizzi's analysis method. Five main themes emerged from the narratives: (i) distress caused by inability to remember; (ii) counteracting memory loss; (iii) worry about being a burden to family; (iv) cherishing the current situation and gaining respect; and (v) adopting a dispassionate view about life and death. The traditions of filial piety in Chinese culture were reflected in the experiences of these elderly dementia patients. Elderly dementia patients experienced inconveniences in their daily lives due to marked impairments in memory functions, and they even doubted their own independent capabilities. To counteract their disease, many elderly dementia patients developed self-contained approaches to handle their loss of memories. While they were worried about being a burden to their families, they also valued their current situation. They were comforted by being taken care of by their children, and they adopted a dispassionate view about life and death issues. For the care of elderly dementia patients, besides reducing the inconveniences brought about by cognitive impairments, there is also a need to pay attention to the deterioration of their physical bodily functions in order to intervene in their lives holistically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao-Chuan Chen
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,School of Nursing, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Ru Lin
- School of Nursing & Dean of Academic Affairs, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei, Taiwan
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Roberts JR, Maxfield M. Examining the Relationship Between Religious and Spiritual Motivation and Worry About Alzheimer's Disease in Later Life. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2018; 57:2500-2514. [PMID: 29730806 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-018-0635-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
As awareness of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders and diagnosis rates rise, concern about developing such conditions may also increase, referred to here as dementia worry (DW). Few studies have examined DW and potential protective factors. Religiosity provides diverse psychological benefits and may be associated with lower DW; however, intrinsic/extrinsic motivations were expected to differentially relate to DW. Among 83 older adults (M = 69.48 years), both greater intrinsic and extrinsic-social religious motivation were associated with lower DW. Results suggest internalizing one's religious beliefs and building a social network within a religious community may provide a psychological buffer against DW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Roberts
- Psychology Department, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO, 80918, USA.
| | - Molly Maxfield
- Psychology Department, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, 1420 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO, 80918, USA
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Memory performance in older adults: Experimental evidence for the indirect effect of memory self-efficacy on processing efficiency through worry. MOTIVATION AND EMOTION 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11031-018-9703-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Bowen CE, Kessler EM, Segler J. Dementia worry in middle-aged and older adults in Germany: sociodemographic, health-related and psychological correlates. Eur J Ageing 2018; 16:39-52. [PMID: 30886559 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-018-0462-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
"Dementia worry" (DW; i.e., concern about developing dementia) is highly prevalent in the general population. However, research on the characteristics associated with lower and higher levels of DW is still limited. Based on previous empirical and conceptual work, we examined the extent to which DW was related to a comprehensive range of objective and subjective characteristics (sociodemographics, contact with people with dementia, physical health-related risk factors, well-being/psychological distress, aging self-perceptions, social-cognitive health beliefs about dementia). A convenience sample of N = 219 German adults 40 + years (M = 65.50 years, SD = 11.34; 40-94 years) reporting no dementia or cognitive impairment diagnosis completed questionnaires. We improved upon previous research by using a ten-item scale to measure DW. We used bivariate correlations and multivariate regression to examine the extent to which DW was related to the potential concomitants. 41.1% of the participants indicated DW. Together, the predictor variables explained 53.3% of the variance in DW. DW was related to psychological distress, perceived memory change, aging anxiety, and personal risk perception in both the bivariate and multivariate analyses. There was a quadratic (reverse U shape) relationship between age and DW. Physical health-related risk factors were not related to DW. Our findings suggest that DW represents a hybrid of psychological distress, aging self-perceptions, and a specific type of health concern. Healthcare practitioners should consider a person's psychological characteristics when deciding how to intervene when someone indicates moderate or high DW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine E Bowen
- 1MSB Medical School Berlin, Calandrellistrasse 1-9, 12247 Berlin, Germany
| | - Eva-Marie Kessler
- 1MSB Medical School Berlin, Calandrellistrasse 1-9, 12247 Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Segler
- 2Zentrum für Kinder-und Jugendmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 153, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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Fresson M, Dardenne B, Geurten M, Meulemans T. The effect of stereotype threat on older people’s clinical cognitive outcomes: investigating the moderating role of dementia worry. Clin Neuropsychol 2017; 31:1306-1328. [DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2017.1307456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Megan Fresson
- Psychology and Neurosciences of Cognition Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Benoit Dardenne
- Psychology and Neurosciences of Cognition Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Marie Geurten
- Psychology and Neurosciences of Cognition Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Thierry Meulemans
- Psychology and Neurosciences of Cognition Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
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Ayalon L, Tesch-Römer C. Taking a closer look at ageism: self- and other-directed ageist attitudes and discrimination. Eur J Ageing 2017; 14:1-4. [PMID: 28804389 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-016-0409-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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