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Cunha C, Rodrigues P, Voss G, Martinez-Pecino R, Delerue-Matos A. Association between formal social participation and cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults: a longitudinal study using SHARE data. NEUROPSYCHOLOGY, DEVELOPMENT, AND COGNITION. SECTION B, AGING, NEUROPSYCHOLOGY AND COGNITION 2024; 31:932-955. [PMID: 38402630 DOI: 10.1080/13825585.2024.2315769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Formal social participation significantly impacts health and well-being, potentially mitigating cognitive decline, although not consistently across all studies. Existing research often focuses solely on baseline participation levels, and age-related differences have primarily been explored among the Asian population. Therefore, this longitudinal study aims to assess the association between formal social participation and cognition across different age groups in individuals aged 50+ living in Europe and Israel, while capturing the dynamic nature of formal social participation. We use data from three waves (four, six, and eight) of the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), comprising 85,601 respondents. Linear mixed-effects models were applied. The results show that participation in formal social activities mitigates cognitive decline in middle-aged and older adults, especially among those aged 70 to 79 and 80+. These findings support the need for social policies promoting formal social activities, for lasting cognitive health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia Cunha
- Communication and Society Research Centre, Institute of Social Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Paula Rodrigues
- Communication and Society Research Centre, Institute of Social Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Gina Voss
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Alice Delerue-Matos
- Communication and Society Research Centre, Institute of Social Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- Department of Sociology, Institute of Social Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
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Banta Lavenex P, Blandin ML, Gaborieau C, Lavenex P. Well-designed manufacturing work improves some cognitive abilities in individuals with cognitive impairments. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2024; 5:1377133. [PMID: 38813372 PMCID: PMC11135131 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2024.1377133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Employment is recognized as a fundamental human right, which correlates with better physical and mental health. Importantly, well-designed work, which considers the physical, social, and psychological impacts of work, can serve to enhance the cognitive abilities of workers. Although often overlooked, work for individuals with disabilities, including cognitive impairments, is equally important for their physical and mental well-being. What has not been established, however, is whether well-designed work can also enhance the cognitive abilities of individuals with cognitive impairments. Methods Using a longitudinal study design, we investigated the impact of well-designed work on the cognitive abilities of 60 participants (operators) at the AMIPI Foundation factories, which employ individuals with cognitive impairments to produce electrical cables and harnesses for the automobile industry. The same operators were assessed at three different time points: upon hiring (n = 60), and after working in the factory for 1 year (n = 41, since 19 left the factory) and 2 years (n = 28, since 13 more left the factory). We used five cognitive tests evaluating: (1) finger and manual dexterity, bimanual dexterity, and procedural memory using the Purdue Pegboard; (2) sustained and selective attention using the Symbol Cancellation Task; (3) short- and long-term declarative verbal memory and long-term verbal recognition memory using Rey's Audio-Verbal Learning Test; (4) short- and long-term visual recognition memory using the Continuous Visual Memory Test; and (5) abstract reasoning using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. Results We observed improvements in procedural memory, sustained and selective attention, and short- and long-term visual recognition memory after working in the factory for 1 or 2 years. We did not observe improvements in finger or manual dexterity or bimanual dexterity, nor short- or long-term declarative verbal memory or verbal recognition memory, nor abstract reasoning. Discussion We conclude that, in addition to improving physical and mental well-being, well-designed manufacturing work can serve as a training intervention improving some types of cognitive functioning in individuals with cognitive impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Pierre Lavenex
- Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Development, Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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3
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Cunha C, Voss G, Andrade R, Delerue-Matos A. Is Formal Social Participation Associated with Cognitive Function in Middle-Aged and Older Adults? A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Longitudinal Studies. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:262. [PMID: 38667058 PMCID: PMC11047523 DOI: 10.3390/bs14040262] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
This systematic review with meta-analysis aimed to explore the association between formal social participation and cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults using data from longitudinal studies. A comprehensive search was conducted in Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science for longitudinal studies that assessed the association between formal social participation and cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults published between January 2010 to 19 August 2022. Risk of bias was judged using the RoBANS tool. Meta-analysis using a random-effects model was computed with odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for cognitive decline probability. Sensitivity analyses were made to explore any changes to the pooled statistical heterogeneity and pooled effect size. Certainty of evidence was judged using the GRADE framework. We included 15 studies comprising 136,397 participants from 5 countries. Meta-analyses showed that formal social participation was associated with reduced cognitive decline (OR = 0.78, 95% CI 0.75-0.82, p < 0.001), with very low certainty of evidence. Formal social participation appears to enhance cognition in middle-aged and older adults, but further high-quality research is needed given the very low certainty of evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia Cunha
- Communication and Society Research Centre, Institute of Social Sciences, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal;
| | - Gina Voss
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Renato Andrade
- Clínica Espregueira—FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, 4350-415 Porto, Portugal;
- Dom Henrique Research Centre, 4350-415 Porto, Portugal
- Porto Biomechanics Laboratory (LABIOMEP), Faculty of Sports, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| | - Alice Delerue-Matos
- Communication and Society Research Centre, Institute of Social Sciences, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal;
- Department of Sociology, Institute of Social Sciences, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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Fekete M, Lehoczki A, Major D, Fazekas-Pongor V, Csípő T, Tarantini S, Csizmadia Z, Varga JT. Exploring the Influence of Gut-Brain Axis Modulation on Cognitive Health: A Comprehensive Review of Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Symbiotics. Nutrients 2024; 16:789. [PMID: 38542700 PMCID: PMC10975805 DOI: 10.3390/nu16060789] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent research exploring the relationship between the gut and the brain suggests that the condition of the gut microbiota can influence cognitive health. A well-balanced gut microbiota may help reduce inflammation, which is linked to neurodegenerative conditions. Prebiotics, probiotics, and symbiotics are nutritional supplements and functional food components associated with gastrointestinal well-being. The bidirectional communication of the gut-brain axis is essential for maintaining homeostasis, with pre-, pro-, and symbiotics potentially affecting various cognitive functions such as attention, perception, and memory. Numerous studies have consistently shown that incorporating pre-, pro-, and symbiotics into a healthy diet can lead to improvements in cognitive functions and mood. Maintaining a healthy gut microbiota can support optimal cognitive function, which is crucial for disease prevention in our fast-paced, Westernized society. Our results indicate cognitive benefits in healthy older individuals with probiotic supplementation but not in healthy older individuals who have good and adequate levels of physical activity. Additionally, it appears that there are cognitive benefits in patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease, while mixed results seem to arise in younger and healthier individuals. However, it is important to acknowledge that individual responses may vary, and the use of these dietary supplements should be tailored to each individual's unique health circumstances and needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónika Fekete
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (M.F.); (A.L.); (D.M.); (V.F.-P.); (T.C.); (S.T.)
| | - Andrea Lehoczki
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (M.F.); (A.L.); (D.M.); (V.F.-P.); (T.C.); (S.T.)
- National Institute for Haematology and Infectious Diseases, Department of Haematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, South Pest Central Hospital, 1097 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dávid Major
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (M.F.); (A.L.); (D.M.); (V.F.-P.); (T.C.); (S.T.)
| | - Vince Fazekas-Pongor
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (M.F.); (A.L.); (D.M.); (V.F.-P.); (T.C.); (S.T.)
| | - Tamás Csípő
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (M.F.); (A.L.); (D.M.); (V.F.-P.); (T.C.); (S.T.)
| | - Stefano Tarantini
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (M.F.); (A.L.); (D.M.); (V.F.-P.); (T.C.); (S.T.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, College of Public Health, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Oklahoma Cancer Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Zoltán Csizmadia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - János Tamás Varga
- Department of Pulmonology, Semmelweis University, 1083 Budapest, Hungary
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Maniscalco L, Veronese N, Ragusa FS, Vernuccio L, Dominguez LJ, Smith L, Matranga D, Barbagallo M. Sarcopenia using muscle mass prediction model and cognitive impairment: A longitudinal analysis from the English longitudinal study on ageing. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2024; 117:105160. [PMID: 37672877 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2023.105160] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Literature on the association between sarcopenia and cognitive impairment is largely unclear and mainly limited to non-European populations. Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore if the presence of sarcopenia at the baseline could increase the risk of cognitive impairment in a large cohort of older people participating to the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA), over ten years of follow-up. METHODS Sarcopenia was diagnosed as having low handgrip strength and low skeletal muscle mass index at the baseline, using a muscle mass prediction model; cognitive function was evaluated in the ELSA through several tests. The results are reported in the whole sample adjusted for potential baseline confounders and after matching sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic participants with a propensity score. RESULTS 2738 people (mean age: 68.7 years, 54.4% males) were included. During the ten years of follow-up, sarcopenia was associated with significantly lower scores in memory (p < 0.001), verbal fluency (p < 0.001), immediate word recall (p <0.001), delayed word recall (p = 0.018), and in recall summary score (p < 0.001). After adjusting for eight potential confounders, the presence of sarcopenia was significantly associated with poor verbal fluency (odds ratio, OR= 1.417, 95% confidence intervals, CI= 1.181-1.700) and in propensity-score matched analyses (OR=1.272, 95%CI= 1.071- 1.511). CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Sarcopenia was found to be associated with a significantly higher incidence of poor cognitive status in a large population of elderly people followed up for 10 years, suggesting it may be an important potential risk factor for dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Maniscalco
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Nicola Veronese
- Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Geriatric Unit, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 141, Palermo 90127, Italy.
| | - Francesco Saverio Ragusa
- Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Geriatric Unit, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 141, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Laura Vernuccio
- Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Geriatric Unit, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 141, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Ligia J Dominguez
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
| | - Lee Smith
- Centre for Health, Performance, and Wellbeing, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Domenica Matranga
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Italy
| | - Mario Barbagallo
- Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Geriatric Unit, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 141, Palermo 90127, Italy
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Fernández I, García-Mollá A, Oliver A, Sansó N, Tomás JM. The role of social and intellectual activity participation in older adults' cognitive function. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2023; 107:104891. [PMID: 36521393 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2022.104891] [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: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND A challenge of the ageing of the population is cognitive performance, given its association to optimal ageing. Documented predictors of cognition have included socio-demographics, education or physical factors. However, the association of social and intellectual activity participation to cognition has been less studied. AIM This study presents a predictive model of cognitive functioning including these alternative factors as well as more seminal ones to explain cognition in old age. MATERIALS AND METHODS The sample was composed by 45475 older adult participants in the 8th Wave of the Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe, that took place between 2019 and 2020. A correlational design was specified to test the effects of age, gender, years of education, physical inactivity, number of chronic diseases, social activity participation and intellectual activity participation on temporal orientation, numeracy, verbal fluency and memory. A completely a priori Structural Equation Model with latent variables was tested. RESULTS The sample had an average of 70 years of age, was well-educated and physically active and engaged in reading. There was a higher proportion of females. The model showed an optimal fit to the data, explaining 8.7%-36.0% of the different cognitive components' variance. Age, years of education and intellectual activity displayed the largest effects across the cognitive domains. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that social and intellectual activity participation are of relative importance to predict cognition in old age, even when considering other well-documented factors affecting older adults' cognitive functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Fernández
- Department of Methodology for the Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Spain.
| | | | - Amparo Oliver
- Department of Methodology for the Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Spain
| | - Noemí Sansó
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of the Balearic Islands, Balearic Islands Health Research Institute (IDISBA), Spain
| | - José M Tomás
- Department of Methodology for the Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Spain
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7
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Veronese N, Koyanagi A, Dominguez LJ, Maggi S, Soysal P, Bolzetta F, Vernuccio L, Smith L, Matranga D, Barbagallo M. Multimorbidity increases the risk of dementia: a 15 year follow-up of the SHARE study. Age Ageing 2023; 52:afad052. [PMID: 37078753 PMCID: PMC10116948 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afad052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS the literature regarding the association between multimorbidity and dementia is still unclear. Therefore, we aimed to explore the potential association between multimorbidity at the baseline and the risk of future dementia in the SHARE (Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe) study, a large European research survey, with a follow-up of 15 years. METHODS in this longitudinal study, multimorbidity was defined as the presence of two or more chronic medical conditions, among 14 self-reported at the baseline evaluation. Incident dementia was ascertained using self-reported information. Cox regression analysis, adjusted for potential confounders, was run and hazard ratios (HRs), with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs), that were estimated in the whole sample and by 5 year groups. RESULTS among 30,419 participants initially considered in wave 1, the 23,196 included participants had a mean age of 64.3 years. The prevalence of multimorbidity at baseline was 36.1%. Multimorbidity at baseline significantly increased the risk of dementia in the overall sample (HR = 1.14; 95% CI: 1.03-1.27) and in participants younger than 55 years (HR = 2.06; 95% CI: 1.12-3.79), in those between 60 and 65 years (HR = 1.66; 95% CI: 1.16-2.37) and in those between 65 and 70 years (HR = 1.54; 95% CI: 1.19-2.00). In the overall sample, high cholesterol levels, stroke, diabetes and osteoporosis increased the risk of dementia, particularly if present among participants between 60 and 70 years of age. CONCLUSIONS multimorbidity significantly increases the risk of dementia, particularly in younger people, indicating the need for early detection of multimorbidity for preventing cognitive worsening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Veronese
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Ai Koyanagi
- Research and Development Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERSAM, ISCIII, 08830 Barcelona, Spain
- ICREA, Pg. Lluis Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ligia J Dominguez
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Kore University of Enna, 94100 Enna, Italy
| | - Stefania Maggi
- National Research Council, Neuroscience Institute, Padua, Italy
| | - Pinar Soysal
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Francesco Bolzetta
- Medical Department, Geriatric Unit, Azienda ULSS (Unità Locale Socio Sanitaria) 3 “Serenissima”, Dolo-Mirano District, Venice, Italy
| | - Laura Vernuccio
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Lee Smith
- Centre for Health, Performance, and Wellbeing, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Domenica Matranga
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Mario Barbagallo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Cuéllar-García MF, Dager-Berecochea I, Villegas-Iparrea AP, Molina-Escalante Z, Villalobos-Gallegos L, Toledo-Fernández A. Big Five personality factors predict self-rated cognitive reserve: a two-wave online study in a Mexican sample. Cogn Neuropsychiatry 2023; 28:102-115. [PMID: 36695101 DOI: 10.1080/13546805.2023.2168530] [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] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: One of the main contributors to cognitive reserve (CR) is the involvement in cognitively stimulating activities (CSAs), including education, work, leisure, social and physical activities. Personality traits are plausible determinants of CR, influencing the tendency to engage in CSAs. The goal of this study was to evaluate the association between personality and CR, operationalised as self-rated involvement in CSAs, in a sample of individuals aged 18-50 or more. Method: We collected two-wave non-probabilistic online data throughout Mexico. The instruments were the Big Five Inventory-2 for the baseline, its extra-short form for the follow-up and the Self-Rating of Cognitive Reserve (SRCR). Confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) were performed to test the unifactorial structure of the SRCR, and multiple regressions were conducted with personality factors as predictors of CR. Results: For the baseline, 2025 participants were recruited, and 610 for the follow-up, most of them female and aged 18-40. CFAs showed excellent goodness-of-fit, and the regression analyses proved Negative Emotionality and Extraversion to be the main predictors of CR. Conclusions: Our study highlights the need to identify personality profiles at high risk of underdevelopment of CR in ages where it is still feasible to promote engagement in CSAs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Luis Villalobos-Gallegos
- Facultad de Medicina y Psicología, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California-Tijuana, Tijuana, Mexico
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Sun R, Zhang Z. Leisure activities and cognitive impairment in old age: The role of life course socioeconomic status. Aging Ment Health 2023; 27:326-333. [PMID: 35467457 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2022.2046694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In the current literature on cognitive function, life course socioeconomic status (SES) and engaging in leisure activities are often viewed as parallel measures of cognitive reserve that independently affect cognitive impairment in old age. Some studies also suggest that leisure activity mediates the effect of SES on cognitive impairment. What is less examined is the modification effect of SES on the association between engaging in leisure activities and cognitive impairment, especially from a life course perspective. In this study, we focus on the interaction effects of specific measures of SES and leisure activities on cognitive impairment. We use data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey, which includes five waves of interviews with adults aged 65 and older between 2002 and 2014. Cognitive impairment is measured by the Chinese version of the Mini-Mental Status Examination. Childhood and adulthood SES and participation in seven leisure activities are included in this analysis. We adopt a lagged independent variable approach and the Generalized Linear Mixed Model to conduct the analysis. Findings confirm that higher SES in both childhood and adulthood are associated with low levels of cognitive impairment in the older Chinese population. Furthermore, there are significant interaction effects between specific life course SES and leisure activities with a consistent pattern: Those of higher life course SES enjoy extra benefits from engaging in leisure activities. The findings point to a modification mechanism that connects life course SES, leisure activities, and cognitive health inequality among older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongjun Sun
- Department of Sociology, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Zhenmei Zhang
- Department of Sociology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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10
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Marseglia A, Kalpouzos G, Laukka EJ, Maddock J, Patalay P, Wang HX, Bäckman L, Westman E, Welmer AK, Dekhtyar S. Social Health and Cognitive Change in Old Age: Role of Brain Reserve. Ann Neurol 2022; 93:844-855. [PMID: 36579809 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Individual aspects of social health (SH; eg, network, engagement, support) have been linked to cognitive health. However, their combined effect and the role of the structural properties of the brain (brain reserve [BR]) remain unclear. We investigated the interplay of SH and BR on cognitive change in older adults. METHODS Within the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care-Kungsholmen, 368 dementia-free adults aged ≥60 years with baseline brain magnetic resonance imaging were followed over 12 years to assess cognitive change. A measure of global cognition was computed at each of the 5 waves of assessment by averaging domain-specific Z scores for episodic memory, perceptual speed, semantic memory, and letter and category fluency. An SH composite score was computed at baseline by combining leisure activities and social network. BR was proxied by total brain tissue volume (TBTV). Linear mixed models (adjusted for sociodemographic, vascular, and genetic factors) were used to estimate cognitive trajectories in relation to SH and TBTV. Interaction analysis and stratification were used to examine the interplay between SH and TBTV. RESULTS Moderate-good SH (n = 245; vs poor, β-slope = 0.01, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.002-0.02, p = 0.018) and moderate-to-large TBTV (n = 245; vs small, β-slope = 0.03, 95% CI = 0.02-0.04, p < 0.001) were separately associated with slower cognitive decline. In stratified analysis, moderate-good SH was associated with higher cognitive levels (but not change) only in participants with moderate-to-large TBTV (β-intercept = 0.21, 95% CI = 0.06-0.37, p < 0.01; interaction SH * TBTV, p < 0.05). INTERPRETATION Our findings highlight the interplay between SH and BR that likely unfolds throughout the entire life course to shape old-age cognitive outcomes. ANN NEUROL 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Marseglia
- Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Center for Alzheimer Research, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Grégoria Kalpouzos
- Aging Research Center, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute and Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erika J Laukka
- Aging Research Center, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute and Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.,Stockholm Gerontology Research Center, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jane Maddock
- Medical Research Council Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing, Department of Population Science and Experimental Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Praveetha Patalay
- Medical Research Council Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing, Department of Population Science and Experimental Medicine, University College London, London, UK.,Centre for Longitudinal Studies, Social Research Institute, University College London, London, UK
| | - Hui-Xin Wang
- Stress Research Institute, Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Bäckman
- Aging Research Center, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute and Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eric Westman
- Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Center for Alzheimer Research, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna-Karin Welmer
- Aging Research Center, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute and Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.,Stockholm Gerontology Research Center, Stockholm, Sweden.,Women's Health and Allied Health Professionals Theme, Medical Unit Medical Psychology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Division of Physiotherapy, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Serhiy Dekhtyar
- Aging Research Center, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute and Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Szcześniak D, Lenart-Bugla M, Misiak B, Zimny A, Sąsiadek M, Połtyn-Zaradna K, Zatońska K, Zatoński T, Szuba A, Smith EE, Yusuf S, Rymaszewska J. Unraveling the Protective Effects of Cognitive Reserve on Cognition and Brain: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12228. [PMID: 36231530 PMCID: PMC9566249 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the hypothesis that brain maintenance expressed in white matter hyperintensities and brain reserves, defined as gray and white matter volumes, mediate the association between cognitive reserve (CR) and cognitive performance. A cross-sectional population-based observational study was conducted, and the final study sample consisted of 763 participants (282 men and 481 women) with a mean age of 61.11 years (±9.0). Data from different categories were collected from study participants, such as demographic, lifestyle, medical, and psycho-social characteristics. All participants underwent a detailed psychometric evaluation (MoCA and DSST) followed by a brain MRI. Volumetric measurements of the total gray matter (GMvol), total white matter (WMvol), and white matter hyperintensities (WMHvol) were performed using the Computational Anatomy Toolbox 12 (CAT12) and Statistical Parametric Maps 12 (SPM12) based on 3D T1-weighted sequence. Significant direct and indirect effects of cognitive reserve on cognitive functioning were measured with both scales-the MoCA and DSST. In each mediation model, the volumes of WMH and GM were significant mediators for the association between cognitive reserve and cognitive performance. This study confirms the importance of strengthening the cognitive reserve in the course of life through potentially modifiable effects on both cognition and the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Szcześniak
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Pasteura 10, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marta Lenart-Bugla
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Pasteura 10, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Błażej Misiak
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Pasteura 10, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Anna Zimny
- Department of General and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marek Sąsiadek
- Department of General and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Katarzyna Zatońska
- Department of Social Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Bujwida 44, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Zatoński
- Department and Clinic of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Szuba
- Department of Angiology, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Eric E. Smith
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Radiology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Salim Yusuf
- Population Health Research Institute and Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Joanna Rymaszewska
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Pasteura 10, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland
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12
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Social network change after new-onset pain among middle-aged and old European adults. Soc Sci Med 2022; 310:115215. [PMID: 36054986 PMCID: PMC9514133 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.115215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examines how onset of chronic pain affects characteristics of personal social networks among adults aged 51+ across Europe. METHODS We used population-based data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE; 2011-2015; n = 12,647). Using a change score analysis approach, we tracked changes in personal social networks of respondents experiencing new-onset chronic pain (n = 3803) compared to pain-free counterparts (n = 8844) in 11 European countries over four years. RESULTS Overall, consistent with network activation theory, respondents with new-onset mild-to-moderate chronic pain reported increases in sizes and diversity of their personal social networks, compared to their pain-free counterparts. However, consistent with the "pain as threat to the social self" theory, respondents with new-onset moderate pain or mild-to-moderate pain reported a decrease over time in perceived satisfaction and closeness with networks, respectively. Estimates from interactions between new-onset pain severity and sex show that men with new-onset pain experienced greater decreases in network satisfaction (mild pain) and closeness (severe pain) than did women. DISCUSSION This study highlights the complex social consequences of chronic pain, which may vary based on pain severity, gender, and type of social outcome considered.
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13
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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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14
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Misuraca R, Teuscher U, Scaffidi Abbate C, Ceresia F, Roccella M, Parisi L, Vetri L, Miceli S. Can We Do Better Next Time? Italians' Response to the COVID-19 Emergency through a Heuristics and Biases Lens. Behav Sci (Basel) 2022; 12:39. [PMID: 35200290 PMCID: PMC8869375 DOI: 10.3390/bs12020039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
During the outbreak of COVID-19 in Italy, people often failed to adopt behaviors that could have stopped, or at least slowed down, the spread of this deadly disease. We offer cognitive explanations for these decisions, based on some of the most common heuristics and biases that are known to influence human judgment and decision-making, especially under conditions of high uncertainty. Our analysis concludes with the following recommendations: policymakers can and should take advantage of this established science, in order to communicate more effectively and increase the likelihood that people choose responsible actions in a public health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Misuraca
- Department of Political Science and International Relations (DEMS), University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Ursina Teuscher
- Department of Psychology, Portland State University, Portland, OR 97207, USA;
| | - Costanza Scaffidi Abbate
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (C.S.A.); (M.R.); (L.P.); (S.M.)
| | - Francesco Ceresia
- Department of Political Science and International Relations (DEMS), University of Palermo, 90134 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Michele Roccella
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (C.S.A.); (M.R.); (L.P.); (S.M.)
| | - Lucia Parisi
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (C.S.A.); (M.R.); (L.P.); (S.M.)
| | - Luigi Vetri
- OASI, Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy;
| | - Silvana Miceli
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy; (C.S.A.); (M.R.); (L.P.); (S.M.)
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15
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Matranga D, Maniscalco L. Inequality in Healthcare Utilization in Italy: How Important Are Barriers to Access? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:1697. [PMID: 35162720 PMCID: PMC8835011 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
With the ageing population, equitable access to medical care has proven to be paramount for the effective and efficient management of all diseases. Healthcare access can be hindered by cost barriers for drugs or exams, long waiting lists or difficult access to the place where the needed healthcare service is provided. The aim of this paper is to investigate whether the probability of facing one of these barriers varies among individuals with different socio-economic status and care needs, controlling for geographical variability. METHODS The sample for this study included 9629 interviews with Italian individuals, aged 15 and over, from the second wave (2015) of the European Health Interview Survey, which was conducted in all EU Member States. To model barriers to healthcare, two-level variance components of logistic regression models with a nested structure given by the four Italian macro-areas were considered. RESULTS Of the barriers considered in this study, only two were found to be significantly associated with healthcare utilization. Specifically, they are long waiting lists for specialist service accessibility (adjOR = 1.20, 95% CI (1.07; 1.35)) and very expensive exams for dental visit accessibility (adjOR = 0.84, 95% CI (0.73; 0.96)). Another important result was the evidence of an increasing north-south gradient for all of the considered barriers. CONCLUSION In Italy, healthcare access is generally guaranteed for all of the services, except for specialist and dental visits that face a waiting time and financial barriers. However, barriers to healthcare were differentiated by income and sex. The north-south gradient for healthcare utilization could be explained through the existing differences in organizational characteristics of the several regional healthcare services throughout Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenica Matranga
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal and Medical Specialties “G. D’Alessandro”, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Laura Maniscalco
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy;
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16
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Matranga D, Maniscalco L, Enea M, De Luca D, Brancato D, La Spada E, Scorsone A, Di Carlo P. Longitudinal investigation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in older patients in the province of Palermo (Southern Italy) during the early wave of the pandemic. Arch Med Sci 2022; 18:1488-1497. [PMID: 36457987 PMCID: PMC9710254 DOI: 10.5114/aoms/134024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Clinical presentation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in old adults from Southern Italy is little known. This study aims to investigate the mortality risk related to risk factors, therapy and clinical course and to suggest prognostic indicators based on day-to-day follow-up of clinical and laboratory findings. MATERIAL AND METHODS It was designed as a retrospective longitudinal cohort study of adult SARS-CoV-2 patients admitted at Partinico COVID Hospital in Palermo, Southern Italy. Patients were recruited between 4 March and 25 April and followed up until 31 May 2020, day-to-day until death or hospital discharge. Clinical data, laboratory tests and treatment data were extracted from medical records and epidemiologic information was obtained by clinical history and the medical interview. RESULTS Forty-seven patients (median age = 75 IQR: 59.50-86.00) were followed up during a 87 days observation period, accounting for a total of 1,035 person days. At the end of follow-up, 28 (60%) patients were discharged and 19 (40%) died, so that the estimated incidence density rate was 0.018 deaths per day (18 SARS-CoV-2-related deaths per 1,000 patient days). Diabetes (HR = 8.13, 95% CI: 1.91-34.67), chronic kidney failure (HR = 5.86, 95% CI: 1.36-25.21), dementia (HR = 7.84, 95% CI: 1.80-34.20), and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio > 7 (HR = 10.37, 95% CI: 2.24-48.14) were found as significant prognostic factors. CONCLUSIONS The joint evaluation of dementia, diabetes, chronic kidney failure and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio showed an optimal prognostic value already in the first week of follow-up. The day-to-day follow-up provides essential information for clinical monitoring and treatment of the disease in a hospital setting and improves the disease's home management, especially for older patients with frailty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenica Matranga
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Laura Maniscalco
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Marco Enea
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Dario De Luca
- Partinico Covid Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Davide Brancato
- Partinico Covid Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Emanuele La Spada
- Partinico Covid Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessandro Scorsone
- Partinico Covid Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Paola Di Carlo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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17
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Miceli S, Scrima F, Cardaci M, Quatrosi G, Vetri L, Roccella M, Caci B. Does Attentional Style Moderate the Relationship between Time Perspective and Social Network Addiction? A Cross-Sectional Study on a Sample of Social Networking Sites Users. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10173983. [PMID: 34501428 PMCID: PMC8432466 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10173983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigates the role of attentional style as a moderator variable between temporal perspective and social network addiction, since little is known about users' cognitive variables involved in this kind of addictive behavior. To achieve this goal, a sample of 186 volunteers and anonymous social networking sites users (M = 34%; F = 66%; Mage = 22.54 years; SD = 3.94; range: 18 ÷ 45 years) participated in a cross-sectional study. All participants filled out self-report instruments measuring temporal perspective, internal vs. external attentional style, and social network addiction. The results align with the previous literature and show that present fatalistic and past negative time orientations are associated with social network addiction, whereas the future is a negative precursor. Moreover, a four-step hierarchical regression analysis showed that internal attentional style is a significant moderator of the relationship between high levels of temporal perspective and a high level of social network addiction. This result suggests that social network-addicted users are oriented toward internal stimuli such as their intrusive thoughts or feelings and that social network addiction is similar to obsessive compulsive disorders, depression, or anxiety. Despite its limitations, the present study could contribute to the efforts of clinicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, teachers, and all those who seek to combat social network addiction in developing treatment programs to reduce its harmful effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Miceli
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Fabrizio Scrima
- Département de Psychologie, Universitè de Rouen, 76130 Mont-Saint-Aignan, France;
| | - Maurizio Cardaci
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Giuseppe Quatrosi
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy;
| | - Luigi Vetri
- Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy;
| | - Michele Roccella
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Barbara Caci
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (S.M.); (M.C.); (M.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-091-23897739
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18
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Do Mental Health and Vitality Mediate the Relationship between Perceived Control over Time and Fear of COVID-19? A Survey in an Italian Sample. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10163516. [PMID: 34441812 PMCID: PMC8397069 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10163516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies evidenced increased elevated symptomatology levels in anxiety, general stress, depression, and post-traumatic stress related to COVID-19. Real difficulties in the effective control of time that could be responsible for mental health issues and loss of vitality were also reported. Prior literature highlighted how perceived control over time significantly modulates anxiety disorders and promotes psychological well-being. To verify the hypothesis that perceived control over time predicts fear of COVID-19 and mental health and vitality mediate this relationship, we performed an online survey on a sample of 301 subjects (female = 68%; Mage = 22.12, SD = 6.29; age range = 18–57 years), testing a parallel mediation model using PROCESS macro (model 4). All participants responded to self-report measures of perceived control over time, COVID-19 fear, mental health, and vitality subscales of the Short-Form-36 Health Survey. Results corroborate the hypotheses of direct relationships between all the study variables and partially validate the mediation’s indirect effect. Indeed, mental health (a1b1 = −0.06; CI: LL = −0.11; UL = −0.01; p < 0.001) rather than vitality (a2b2 = −0.06; CI: LL = −0.09; UL = 0.03; n.s.) emerges as a significant mediator between perceived control over time and fear of COVID-19. Practical implications of the study about treatment programs based on perceived control over time and emotional coping to prevent fear and anxiety toward the COVID-19 pandemic are discussed.
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19
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Ahrenfeldt LJ, Möller S. The Reciprocal Relationship between Socioeconomic Status and Health and the Influence of Sex: A European SHARE-Analysis Based on Structural Equation Modeling. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18095045. [PMID: 34068750 PMCID: PMC8126237 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18095045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
It is well recognized that socioeconomic status (SES) is an important determinant of health, but many studies fail to address the possibility of reverse causation. We aim to investigate the reciprocal relationship between trajectories of SES and health, and how these associations differ by sex. We performed a longitudinal study including 29,824 men and 37,263 women aged 50+ participating in at least two consecutive waves of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). Using structural equation modeling, we found that baseline household income and wealth led to improvements in cognitive function, grip strength, quality of life and depressive symptoms, and a better initial health led to higher income and wealth for both sexes. However, the results indicated that the relative effect of cognitive function and grip strength on SES trajectories was overall greater than the corresponding effect of SES on health changes, particularly regarding income among women, but for quality of life and depressive symptoms, the reverse was indicated, though most pronounced for the associations with wealth. The reciprocal associations between SES and physical function were stronger for men than for women, whereas most associations with cognitive function and mental health were similar between sexes. This study demonstrates that both social causation and health selection contribute to social inequalities in health, but the influence of each direction and the importance of sex differences may vary according to the health outcomes investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Juel Ahrenfeldt
- Unit for Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Biodemography, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-6550-3844
| | - Sören Möller
- OPEN–Open Patient Data Explorative Network, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark;
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
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20
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Amanollahi M, Amanollahi S, Anjomshoa A, Dolatshahi M. Mitigating the negative impacts of aging on cognitive function; modifiable factors associated with increasing cognitive reserve. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 53:3109-3124. [PMID: 33715252 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Research suggests that social, physical, and cognitively challenging activities during lifetime, could mitigate the negative effects of aging on cognitive function. This effect is explained by the increased cognitive reserve (CR) resulting from such factors; in fact, such activities, by altering structural and functional properties of the human brain, equip one with more effective compensatory mechanisms to resist brain damage before the presentation of severe clinical symptoms. Therefore, applying appropriate modifications in one's lifestyle and activities may be effective in lowering the risk of developing dementia and cognitive dysfunction in old age, especially in brain areas that are susceptible to aging. In this paper, we are going to review relevant studies discussing the association between important modifiable factors, known as CR proxies (i.e., educational attainment, occupational complexity, physical activity, social engagement, bilingualism, leisure activities, and Mediterranean diet), and different domains of cognitive function, which are affected either in the process of healthy aging or neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mobina Amanollahi
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,NeuroImaging Network (NIN), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Saba Amanollahi
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Anjomshoa
- Students' Scientific Research Center (SSRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Dolatshahi
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,NeuroImaging Network (NIN), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
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21
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Castanho TC, Santos NC, Meleiro-Neves C, Neto S, Moura GR, Santos MA, Cruz AR, Cunha O, Castro Rodrigues A, Rodrigues AJ, Sousa N. Association of positive and negative life events with cognitive performance and psychological status in late life: A cross-sectional study in Northern Portugal. AGING BRAIN 2021; 1:100020. [PMID: 36911520 PMCID: PMC9997151 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbas.2021.100020] [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: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Life events have important effects on psychological well-being. Yet, studies have mainly focused on exploring the impact of traumatic and negative experiences on health and well-being, with positive events receiving marginal attention. In this study, we investigated the association between negative and positive life events, cognitive performance and psychological status in older individuals. Method A cross-sectional approach with a sample of 97 community-dwelling adults, recruited from a network of 23 centres/institutions in Northern Portugal, and aged between 56 and 85 years, was conducted. All participants were evaluated through a battery of tests assessing for depressive mood, perceived stress, and cognitive functioning. Life events were measured using the Lifetime Experiences Scale (LIFES) which covers 75 life experiences organized in eight domains. Results A total of 95.9% of the participants reported more positive life events than negative throughout life. Participants reporting more positive experiences had lower scores in the depressive mood and perceived stress measures. At the domain-level of LIFES scale, more negative experiences in the Work and Health domains were associated with a depressed mood and more perceived stress. Significant positive associations were found between positive life experiences and most cognitive measures, after controlling for sex, education, age and depressive symptoms. Namely, more positive experiences at School, Leisure, and Living conditions were positively associated with better performance across cognitive tests. Discussion This study adds important evidence on the association between of life events, both negative and positive experiences, on cognition and psychological well-being, providing a more balanced view of the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- T C Castanho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho - Braga, Portugal.,Association P5 Digital Medical Centre (ACMP5), Braga, Portugal
| | - N C Santos
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho - Braga, Portugal.,Association P5 Digital Medical Centre (ACMP5), Braga, Portugal
| | - C Meleiro-Neves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho - Braga, Portugal
| | - S Neto
- Genome Medicine laboratory, Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - G R Moura
- Genome Medicine laboratory, Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - M A Santos
- Genome Medicine laboratory, Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - A R Cruz
- School of Psychology, University of Minho - Braga, Portugal.,Lusófona University HEI-Lab, Porto, Portugal
| | - O Cunha
- School of Psychology, University of Minho - Braga, Portugal.,Lusófona University HEI-Lab, Porto, Portugal
| | - A Castro Rodrigues
- School of Psychology, University of Minho - Braga, Portugal.,ISPA, William James Center for Research, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - A J Rodrigues
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho - Braga, Portugal.,Clinical Academic Center - Braga (2CA-B), Braga, Portugal
| | - N Sousa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho - Braga, Portugal.,Association P5 Digital Medical Centre (ACMP5), Braga, Portugal.,Clinical Academic Center - Braga (2CA-B), Braga, Portugal
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22
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Imamura K, Kamide N, Sakamoto M, Sato H, Shiba Y, Matsunaga A. Association Between Social Network and Physical Function in Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Japan. Phys Ther Res 2020; 23:153-159. [PMID: 33489653 PMCID: PMC7814198 DOI: 10.1298/ptr.e10028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A poor social network and the decline of physical function are known to be critical risk factors for functional decline in older adults. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between social network and physical function in Japanese community-dwelling older adults. METHODS Participants were 339 adults aged 65 years or older (mean age : 73.0 years, women :70.2%), living independently in their communities. A self-reported questionnaire was used to assess social network on two different scales-the 6-item Lubben Social Network Scale (6LSNS) and frequency of contact with other people. Handgrip strength, knee extension strength, gait speed, Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) results, and 5-repetition chair stand test (CST) scores were used to determine physical function. A multiple regression analysis that adjusted for confounding factors was used to analyze the relationship between the social network scales and each physical function test. RESULTS According to the results of a multiple regression analysis, a high 6LSNS score was significantly associated with greater handgrip strength (B = 0.63, p = 0.03), faster CST (B = -0.23, p = 0.01), and faster TUG (B = -0.12, p = 0.03), and high frequency of contact was significantly associated with greater handgrip strength (B = 1.08, p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Social network was associated with muscle strength and physical performance. Consequently, older adults with poor social networks require an assessment of physical function, since their physical functions have possibly deteriorated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keigo Imamura
- Kitasato University, Graduate School of Medical Sciences
| | - Naoto Kamide
- Kitasato University, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kitasato University, School of Allied Health Sciences
| | - Miki Sakamoto
- Kitasato University, School of Allied Health Sciences
| | - Haruhiko Sato
- Kitasato University, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kitasato University, School of Allied Health Sciences
| | | | - Atsuhiko Matsunaga
- Kitasato University, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kitasato University, School of Allied Health Sciences
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Kahlert D, Ehrhardt N. Out-of-Home Mobility and Social Participation of Older People: a Photo-Based Ambulatory Assessment Study. JOURNAL OF POPULATION AGEING 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s12062-020-09278-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
AbstractResearch has shown that social participation contributes to older people’s healthy ageing. Out-of-home mobility may promote higher levels of social participation among older people. However, mobility and social participation are sophisticated constructs. Social participation can be distinguished among different levels, such as being alone, being alone surrounded by others, interacting with others or engaging in activities together. Social participation and time spent in out-of-home-mobility can be difficult to remember and therefore difficult to assess. Picture-based ambulatory assessment provides valid and reliable information about people’s mobility as well as their level of participation with high ecological validity. The aim of the study was to investigate older people’s level of social participation and its association with high or low out-of-home mobility. In sum, 23072 pictures (mean per person = 2307; SD = 686.7) involving ten older people (mean age = 75.4 years; SD = 7.5 years) living in southwestern Germany were analysed. They were asked to wear a wearable camera for two consecutive days. Images were automatically captured every 15 seconds. Image analysis shows that study participants spent most of their time alone (at approximately 35% of analysed time). Out-of-home mobility was associated with higher levels of social participation, such as helping others (chi2 = 200,664, df = 5, p < .001). Picture-based ambulatory assessment can assist in the gathering of necessary sophisticated information that is difficult to assess via questionnaires or other similar methods.
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Self-Perceived Health, Objective Health, and Quality of Life among People Aged 50 and Over: Interrelationship among Health Indicators in Italy, Spain, and Greece. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17072414. [PMID: 32252321 PMCID: PMC7178192 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17072414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that self-perceived health (SPH), even if it is a subjective health indicator, is significantly associated with objective health and quality of life (QoL) in the general population. Whether it can be considered an indicator of cognitive functioning and quality of life in the elderly is still an open issue. This study used a data-driven approach to investigate the interrelationship among SPH, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), QoL, and cognitive functioning to answer this question. The study sample included information about 12,831 people living in Italy, Spain, and Greece, extracted from the Survey on Health, Aging, and Retirement in Europe, in the year 2015. The additive Bayesian networks methodology was used to identify the best directed acyclic graphs (DAG) for SPH, QoL, and NCDs. Results were given as posterior estimates of generalized linear models (GLM) coefficients, with 95% credibility intervals. Good SPH was associated with a decreasing number of chronic diseases in Italy (coeff = −0.52, 95%CI: [−0.59, −0.44]), Spain (coeff = −0.53, 95%CI: [−0.60, −0.46]) and Greece (coeff = −0.57, 95%CI: [−0.64, −0.50]). Age and Body Mass Index were determinants of NCDs in all countries. QoL of elderly was associated with SPH in Italy (coeff = 0.12, 95%CI: [0.10, 0.14]), Spain (coeff = 0.16, 95%CI: [0.15, 0.18]), and Greece (coeff = 0.18, 95%CI: [0.16, 0.20]). The number of NCDs was higher for people who were not employed in Spain (coeff = 0.45, 95%CI: [0.37, 0.53]) and was decreasing for a unitary increase in years of education in Greece (coeff = −0.12, 95%CI: [−0.14, −0.09]). As a general rule, the framework of the interrelationship among NCDs, SPH, and QoL was similar for Italy, Spain, and Greece. The connections found among indicators could be proposed to identify strategies for health promotion and healthy aging among people aged 50 and above, which are viable in general and at a country level. Reinforcing strategies targeted at some health indicators could have relevant effects on other related indicators.
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Fleck JI, Arnold M, Dykstra B, Casario K, Douglas E, Morris O. Distinct Functional Connectivity Patterns Are Associated With Social and Cognitive Lifestyle Factors: Pathways to Cognitive Reserve. Front Aging Neurosci 2019; 11:310. [PMID: 31798441 PMCID: PMC6863775 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2019.00310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of diverse lifestyle factors in sustaining cognition during aging and delaying the onset of decline in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias cannot be overstated. We explored the influence of cognitive, social, and physical lifestyle factors on resting-state lagged linear connectivity (LLC) in high-density electroencephalography (EEG) in adults, ages 35-75 years. Diverse lifestyle factors build cognitive reserve (CR), protecting cognition in the presence of physical brain decline. Differences in LLC were examined between high- and low-CR groups formed using cognitive, social, and exercise lifestyle factors. LLC is a measure of lagged coherence that excludes zero phase contributions and limits the effects of volume conduction on connectivity estimates. Significant differences in LLC were identified for cognitive and social factors, but not exercise. Participants high in social CR possessed greater local and long-range connectivity in theta and low alpha for eyes-open and eyes-closed recording conditions. In contrast, participants high in cognitive CR exhibited greater eyes-closed long-range connectivity between the occipital lobe and other cortical regions in low alpha. Greater eyes-closed local LLC in delta was also present in men high in cognitive CR. Cognitive factor scores correlated with sustained attention, whereas social factors scores correlated with spatial working memory. Gender was a significant covariate in our analyses, with women displaying higher local and long-range LLC in low beta. Our findings support distinct relationships between CR and LLC, as well as CR and cognitive function for cognitive and social subcomponents. These patterns reflect the importance of diverse lifestyle factors in building CR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica I. Fleck
- School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Stockton University, Galloway, NJ, United States
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