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Cao Q, Pope N, Greenfield E. "I'm Part of Something That Matters": Exploring What Older Adults Value Through Their Engagement in Age-Friendly Community Initiatives. JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK 2024; 67:715-737. [PMID: 38704668 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2024.2339971] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Older adults' engagement in age-friendly community (AFC) initiatives is considered an essential element of community transformation. However, research on older adults' experiences of engaging in AFC initiatives remains nascent. Based on qualitative interviews with 23 older adult participants from 15 AFC initiatives across four states in the United States (U.S.), our reflexive thematic analysisidentified three themes regarding what participants value from their engagement: (a) social contribution; (b) social connectedness and integration; and (c) staying active and personal growth. Exploring older adults' interest in contributing to, connecting with, and growing in their community can inform recruitment and retention in AFC initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuchang Cao
- College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Natalie Pope
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Emily Greenfield
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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2
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Wiggin DA, Penič B, Sulopuisto O, Setti A, Mali J, Stitzel A, Kuisma R, Baptista F, Sourtzi P, Timmons S. Postgraduate education in healthy and active ageing: a systematic scoping review of learning needs, curricula and learning impact. GERONTOLOGY & GERIATRICS EDUCATION 2024; 45:345-368. [PMID: 36890768 DOI: 10.1080/02701960.2023.2187386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
To inform a new European-based online master's programme in active aging and age-friendly society, a scoping review was performed to identify previously reported learning needs and learning outcomes on this topic. Four electronic databases (PubMed, EBSCO [Academic Search Complete], Scopus, and ASSIA) were systematically searched, along with gray literature. Dual, independent review of an initial 888 studies led to 33 included papers which underwent independent data extraction and reconciliation. Just 18.2% of studies employed a student survey or similar to determine learning needs, with the majority reporting educational intervention objectives, learning outcomes or curriculum content. Main study topics were intergenerational learning (36.4%), age-related design (27.3%), health (21.2%), attitudes toward aging (6.1%), and collaborative learning (6.1%). This review found limited literature on student learning needs in healthy and active aging. Future research should elucidate student- and other stakeholder-determined learning needs, with robust evaluation of post-education skills, attitudes, and practice change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy A Wiggin
- Centre for Gerontology and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Benjamin Penič
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Outi Sulopuisto
- Degree Programme Disability and Diversity Studies, Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Annalisa Setti
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Jana Mali
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Andrea Stitzel
- School Health Sciences and Social Work, Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, Villach, Austria
| | - Raija Kuisma
- Karelia University of Applied Sciences, Joensuu, Finland
| | - Fátima Baptista
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Panayota Sourtzi
- Department of Nursing, Laboratory of Prevention, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Suzanne Timmons
- Centre for Gerontology and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Pan Z, Liu Y, Liu Y, Huo Z, Han W. Age-friendly neighbourhood environment, functional abilities and life satisfaction: A longitudinal analysis of older adults in urban China. Soc Sci Med 2024; 340:116403. [PMID: 37989046 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
The construction of age-friendly neighbourhoods is a priority for practice and policy to promote active ageing and increase life satisfaction for older adults. However, there has been a paucity of longitudinal evidence on the interaction effects of age-friendly neighbourhood environment and functional abilities on life satisfaction among older adults in urban China. This study makes the first attempt to examine the effect of person-environment fit on life satisfaction by the accumulative effects of age-friendliness of the baseline neighbourhood environment (measured within the WHO Age-Friendly City framework) on functional abilities and life satisfaction trajectories and the long-term effects of functioning changes on life satisfaction, drawing from four waves of longitudinal data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) and latent growth curve modelling. Results indicated that the age-friendliness of transportation was positively associated with functional abilities, and housing was the primary factor that shaped life satisfaction at the baseline. Better maintenance of functional abilities could promote life satisfaction over time. For older adults living in recently built neighbourhoods, social environment factors such as associations and facilities for social participation were more important in functional abilities, and communication and information were more important in life satisfaction. For those living in neighbourhoods built before 2000, physical environment factors such as transportation were essential in functional abilities, and housing was more essential in life satisfaction; health-related facilities and services at baseline exerted a cumulative effect on maintaining functional abilities in the long run. Our findings inform policymakers about how to effectively allocate public resources to enhance older adults' life satisfaction in the Chinese urban context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuolin Pan
- School of Geography and Planning, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory for Urbanization and Geo-Simulation, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Public Security and Disaster, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yuqi Liu
- Department of Urban Planning, School of Architecture, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Ye Liu
- School of Geography and Planning, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Key Laboratory for Urbanization and Geo-Simulation, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Public Security and Disaster, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Ziwen Huo
- Guangzhou Urban Planning & Design Survey Research Institute, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Wenchao Han
- Guangzhou Urban Planning & Design Survey Research Institute, Guangzhou, China.
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van Hoof J, van Staalduinen WH, Dikken J. A multi-year quantitative study of the experienced age-friendliness in The Hague: A tale of four personas. Soc Sci Med 2024; 340:116362. [PMID: 38064823 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
As an active member of the Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities, The Hague has been monitoring the progress over the years. In 2022, a second cross-sectional survey based on the Age Friendly Cities and Communities Questionnaire (AFCCQ) was conducted among 396 community-dwelling older citizens in the municipality. During times of the pandemic, scores for Social Participation went notably down, and scores for Respect and Social Inclusion increased. For the first time, based on survey data, four personas were found through cluster analysis. These personas ranged from the precariat and people with personal health issues with lower scores, to the silent majority without the limitations of health problems, and the upper echelon who score positively in all domains. Age-friendly policies in The Hague should focus particularly on the first two clusters through dedicated action plans, which would help steer efforts towards those most in need for support. This would help The Hague to become an age-friendly city for all, and not only for those living in good health and with sufficient financial means.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joost van Hoof
- Research Group of Urban Ageing, Faculty of Social Work & Education, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Johanna Westerdijkplein 75, 2521 EN Den Haag, the Netherlands; Institute of Spatial Management, Faculty of Spatial Management and Landscape Architecture, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, ul. Grunwaldzka 55, 50-357, Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Willeke H van Staalduinen
- AFEdemy, Academy on age-friendly environments in Europe, Krugerlaan 111, 2806 ED Gouda, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Dikken
- Research Group of Urban Ageing, Faculty of Social Work & Education, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Johanna Westerdijkplein 75, 2521 EN Den Haag, the Netherlands; Faculty of Health, Nutrition & Sport, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Johanna Westerdijkplein 75, 2521 EN Den Haag, the Netherlands
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Serrat R, Chacur-Kiss K, Villar F, Peiró-Milian I. For the Sake of Myself, My Colleagues and My Community: Exploring the Benefits of Political Participation in Later Life. JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK 2023; 66:908-923. [PMID: 36945179 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2023.2191129] [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: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Most studies on the benefits of late life civic engagement have focused exclusively on formal volunteering. Older adults' political participation is much more overlooked. The current paper explores the benefits of long-term participation in political organizations as described by actively engaged Spanish older people. We used an adaptation of McAdams' life-story interview with 40 participants from three types of political organizations who occupy a responsible position within the organization. We identified three main themes in participants' answers: personal benefits, relational benefits, and community benefits. Overall, our results showed that the benefits arising from long-term political participation go far beyond the well-studied individual benefits that research on late-life volunteering has typically identified, and spread to relational and community areas. Social work practitioners should consider these benefits when they implement plans and programmes to promote healthy, active ways of aging, fostering age-friendly communities or reducing old-age social exclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Serrat
- Department of Cognition, Development, and Educational Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Karima Chacur-Kiss
- Department of Cognition, Development, and Educational Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Feliciano Villar
- Department of Cognition, Development, and Educational Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Inma Peiró-Milian
- Department of Cognition, Development, and Educational Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Dunning L, Ty D, Shah P, McDermott M. Awareness and Perceptions of "Age-Friendly": Analyzing Survey Results from Voices in the United States. Geriatrics (Basel) 2023; 8:58. [PMID: 37367090 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics8030058] [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: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The term "age-friendly" is widely used to describe cities, communities, health systems, and other environments. However, little is known about how this is interpreted or what the term means to the public. To investigate the public's familiarity with the term and gain insights into its relevance to older adults, we utilized data generated by a survey of 1000+ adults aged 40 and above. We employed a 10-question survey, distributed online in the US from 8 to 17 March 2023 via a third-party vendor, that captured awareness and perceptions of age-friendly designations by exploring awareness of the term, contextual understanding, and influence on decision making. The resultant aggregate data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel and straightforward summary statistical analyses. The majority of respondents (81%) were aware of the term "age-friendly." Older adults (ages 65+) lagged in the self-described extreme or moderate level of awareness compared to adults aged 40-64. In the surveyed population, the term "age-friendly" was most often understood to apply to communities (57%), followed by health systems (41%) and cities (25%). Most people believed "age-friendly" refers to all ages, even though age-friendly health systems are designed to meet the unique needs of older adults. These survey results provide the age-friendly ecosystem field with insights into the awareness and perceptions of the term "age-friendly," highlighting opportunities to bolster understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Dunning
- Center for the Future of Aging, Milken Institute, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA
| | - Diane Ty
- Center for the Future of Aging, Milken Institute, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA
| | - Priyanka Shah
- Center for the Future of Aging, Milken Institute, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA
| | - Mac McDermott
- Center for the Future of Aging, Milken Institute, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA
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Thijssen M, Graff MJL, Lexis MAS, Nijhuis-van der Sanden MWG, Radford K, Logan PA, Daniels R, Kuijer-Siebelink W. Collaboration for Developing and Sustaining Community Dementia-Friendly Initiatives: A Realist Evaluation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4006. [PMID: 36901017 PMCID: PMC10001691 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054006] [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: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dementia-friendly communities (DFCs) are seen as key to the inclusion and participation of people with dementia and carers. Dementia-friendly initiatives (DFIs) are important building blocks for the growth of DFCs. The collaboration between different stakeholders is a central aspect in developing and sustaining DFIs. AIM This study tests and refines an initial theory about collaborating for DFIs with special attention for the involvement of people with dementia and their carers during the collaboration for DFIs. The realist approach is used for deepening contextual aspects, mechanisms, outcomes, and its explanatory power. METHODS A participatory case study design using qualitative data (focus groups, observations, reflections, minutes from meetings, and exit interviews) was executed in four Dutch municipalities that have ambitions to become dementia- friendly communities. RESULTS The refined theory on the collaboration for DFIs incorporates contextual aspects such as diversity, shared insights, and clarity. It draws attention to the importance of mechanisms such as the recognition of efforts and progress, informal distributed leadership, interdependency, belonging, significance, and commitment. These mechanisms resonate with feeling useful and feeling collectively powerful in the collaboration. The outcomes of collaboration were activation, getting new ideas, and fun. Our findings address how stakeholders' routines and perspectives impact the involvement of people with dementia and their carers during collaboration. CONCLUSION This study provides detailed information about collaboration for DFIs. The collaboration for DFIs is largely influenced by feeling useful and collectively powerful. Further research is needed to understand how these mechanisms can be triggered with the involvement of people with dementia and their carers in the heart of the collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjolein Thijssen
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboudumc Research Institute, Scientific Center for Quality of Healthcare (IQ Healthcare), 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboud Alzheimer Center, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department Occupational Therapy, School of Allied Health, HAN University of Applied Sciences, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Maud J. L. Graff
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboudumc Research Institute, Scientific Center for Quality of Healthcare (IQ Healthcare), 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboud Alzheimer Center, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Monique A. S. Lexis
- Research Centre Assistive Technology in Care, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, 6419 DJ Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Maria W. G. Nijhuis-van der Sanden
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboudumc Research Institute, Scientific Center for Quality of Healthcare (IQ Healthcare), 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Kate Radford
- Centre for Rehabilitation and Ageing Research, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2TU, UK
| | - Pip A. Logan
- Centre for Rehabilitation and Ageing Research, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2TU, UK
- Nottingham City Care Partnership, Nottingham NG6 8WR, UK
| | - Ramon Daniels
- Research Centre Assistive Technology in Care, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, 6419 DJ Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Wietske Kuijer-Siebelink
- School of Education, HAN University of Applied Sciences, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboudumc Health Academy, Research on Learning and Education, Radboud University MEDICAL Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Thijssen M, Kuijer-Siebelink W, Lexis MA, Nijhuis-van der Sanden MWG, Daniels R, Graff M. What matters in development and sustainment of community dementia friendly initiatives and why? A realist multiple case study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:296. [PMID: 36759811 PMCID: PMC9909928 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15125-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dementia friendly communities (DFCs) are seen as key to participation of people with dementia and carers. Dementia-friendly initiatives (DFI) are important building blocks for the growth of DFCs. Therefore, it is essential to understand how DFIs are developed and sustained to secure the growth of DFCs. This study identifies contextual factors and mechanisms that influence the development and sustainment of Dutch DFIs. It also explains how these contextual factors and mechanisms are interrelated and the outcomes to which they lead. METHODS Mixed methods, namely interviews, observations, documentation and focus groups, were used for this realist multiple case study. Participants were professionals (n = 46), volunteers (n = 20), people with dementia (n = 1) and carers (n = 2) who were involved in development and sustainment of DFIs in four Dutch DFCs. RESULTS This study revealed three middle-range program theories as final outcomes: development of a support base, collaboration, and participation in DFIs by people with dementia and carers. These theories address institutional, organisational, interpersonal and individual levels in the community that are essential in development and sustainment of DFIs. CONCLUSIONS The development and sustainment of DFIs requires the development of a support base, collaboration, and participation in DFIs by people with dementia and their carers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjolein Thijssen
- Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Scientific Center for Quality of Healthcare (IQ healthcare), Nijmegen, The Netherlands. .,Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Alzheimer Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Wietske Kuijer-Siebelink
- grid.450078.e0000 0000 8809 2093HAN University of Applied Sciences, School of Education, Nijmegen, The Netherlands ,grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Radboud University Medical Center, Radboudumc Health Academy, Research on Learning and Education, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Monique A.S. Lexis
- grid.413098.70000 0004 0429 9708Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, Research Centre Assistive Technology in Care, Heerlen, the Netherlands
| | - Maria W. G. Nijhuis-van der Sanden
- grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Scientific Center for Quality of Healthcare (IQ healthcare), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ramon Daniels
- grid.413098.70000 0004 0429 9708Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, Research Centre Assistive Technology in Care, Heerlen, the Netherlands
| | - Maud Graff
- grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Scientific Center for Quality of Healthcare (IQ healthcare), Nijmegen, The Netherlands ,grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Alzheimer Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Portegijs E, Lee C, Zhu X. Activity-friendly environments for active aging: The physical, social, and technology environments. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1080148. [PMID: 36711401 PMCID: PMC9875594 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1080148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Erja Portegijs
- Center of Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Chanam Lee
- Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States,*Correspondence: Chanam Lee ✉
| | - Xuemei Zhu
- Department of Architecture, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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Montayre J, Foster J, Zhao IY, Kong A, Leung AYM, Molassiotis A, Officer A, Mikton C, Neville S. Age-friendly interventions in rural and remote areas: A scoping review. Australas J Ageing 2022; 41:490-500. [PMID: 35796240 PMCID: PMC10083949 DOI: 10.1111/ajag.13101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In 2007, the World Health Organization published a guide on age-friendly cities. However, little is known about interventions that have been implemented to promote age-friendly communities in rural and remote areas. This paper presents the findings from a scoping review undertaken to locate available evidence of interventions, strategies, and programs that have been implemented in rural and remote areas to create age-friendly communities. METHODS This scoping review used the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. RESULTS A total of 219 articles were included in this review. No intervention studies were referred to as 'age-friendly'. However, there were interventions (mostly healthcare-related) that have been implemented in rural and remote areas with older people as participants. There were also non-evaluated community programs that were published in the grey literature. This review identified the common health interventions in older people and the indirect relevance to the WHO age-friendly framework domains in rural and remote contexts. CONCLUSIONS The eight age-friendly domains were not explicitly utilised as a guide in the development of interventions for older people in rural and remote settings. Implementation of age-friendly interventions in rural and remote areas requires a multisectoral approach that is tailored to address the specific needs of individual communities. Age-friendly interventions also need to consider socio-ecological factors to adequately and holistically address community needs and ensure long-term sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jed Montayre
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jann Foster
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ivy Yan Zhao
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Community Health Services, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Ariana Kong
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Angela Y M Leung
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Community Health Services, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Alex Molassiotis
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Community Health Services, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Alana Officer
- Department of Social Determinants of Health, Division of Healthier Populations, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christopher Mikton
- Department of Social Determinants of Health, Division of Healthier Populations, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stephen Neville
- Nursing Department, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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Towards a Better Understanding of the Sense of Safety and Security of Community-Dwelling Older Adults. The Case of the Age-Friendly City of The Hague. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19073960. [PMID: 35409643 PMCID: PMC8997810 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The sense of safety and security of older people is a widely acknowledged action domain for policy and practice in age-friendly cities. Despite an extensive body of knowledge on the matter, the theory is fragmented, and a classification is lacking. Therefore, this study investigated how older people experience the sense of safety and security in an age-friendly city. A total of four focus group sessions were organised in The Hague comprising 38 older people. Based on the outcomes of the sessions, the sense of safety and security was classified into two main domains: a sense of safety and security impacted by intentional acts and negligence (for instance, burglary and violence), and a sense of safety and security impacted by non-intentional acts (for instance, incidents, making mistakes online). Both domains manifest into three separate contexts, namely the home environment, the outdoor environment and traffic and the digital environment. In the discussions with older people on these derived domains, ideas for potential improvements and priorities were also explored, which included access to information on what older people can do themselves to improve their sense of safety and security, the enforcement of rules, and continuous efforts to develop digital skills to improve safety online.
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12
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Greenfield EA, Buffel T. Age-Friendly Cities and Communities: Research to Strengthen Policy and Practice. J Aging Soc Policy 2022; 34:161-174. [PMID: 35311484 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2022.2049573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Since the early 2000s, a global age-friendly movement has emerged with aspirations to make environments and systems within localities more supportive of long and healthy lives. Despite growth in the social movement over the past decade, research on how to work toward community change, especially in systematic and comprehensive ways across diverse geo-political and sociocultural contexts, has been relatively slower to develop. This special issue of the Journal of Aging & Social Policy aims to accelerate this area. It features articles that advance knowledge on processes and contexts toward enhancing the age-friendliness of cities and communities. In this introductory essay, we provide background on the age-friendly cities and communities movement - including its accomplishments alongside key challenges. We then discuss the importance of research at the intersection of policy and practice to strengthen the movement into the 21st century. Next, we introduce the articles in this special issue, organized under four themes: implementation and sustainability processes; partnerships and multisectoral collaboration; theory-based program design; and policy and practice diffusion. A final article provides an overview of the career contributions of Dr. Frank Caro, an age-friendly champion and gerontologist to whom this special issue is dedicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Greenfield
- Professor, School of Social Work, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Tine Buffel
- Senior Lecturer, Department of Sociology, School of Social Sciences, Manchester Institute for Collaborative Research on Ageing, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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‘You really do become invisible’: examining older adults’ right to the city in the United Kingdom. AGEING & SOCIETY 2021. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x21001793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
A global ageing population presents opportunities and challenges to designing urban environments that support ageing in place. The World Health Organization's Global Age-Friendly Cities movement has identified the need to develop communities that optimise health, participation and security in order to enhance quality of life as people age. Ensuring that age-friendly urban environments create the conditions for active ageing requires cities and communities to support older adults’ rights to access and move around the city (‘appropriation’) and for them to be actively involved in the transformation (‘making and remaking’) of the city. These opportunities raise important questions: What are older adults’ everyday experiences in exercising their rights to the city? What are the challenges and opportunities in supporting a rights to the city approach? How can the delivery of age-friendly cities support rights to the city for older adults? This paper aims to respond to these questions by examining the lived experiences of older adults across three cities and nine neighbourhoods in the United Kingdom. Drawing on 104 semi-structured interviews with older adults between the ages of 51 and 94, the discussion centres on the themes of: right to use urban space; respect and visibility; and the right to participate in planning and decision-making. These themes are illustrated as areas in which older adults’ rights to access and shape urban environments need to be addressed, along with recommendations for age-friendly cities that support a rights-based approach.
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Cao Y, Heng CK, Fung JC. Older Adults’ Out-of-Home Activities in a Super-Aged High-Rise, High-Density Neighborhood: A Qualitative Study †. JOURNAL OF AGING AND ENVIRONMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/26892618.2021.2001709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Cao
- Department of Architecture, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Sustainable Asian Cities, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chye Kiang Heng
- Department of Architecture, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Sustainable Asian Cities, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - John Chye Fung
- Department of Architecture, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Sustainable Asian Cities, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Yeh J. Age-friendly for whom? An aperture to the lived experiences of older San Franciscans. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2021; 62:100-109. [PMID: 34378780 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnab119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Spatial practices and changing urban environments affecting identity, experiences, and everyday life were examined among a diverse sample of older adults as they negotiated and navigated an age-friendly city. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Ethnographic interviews, observations, and visual methods were used to understand spatial practices and lived experiences of four older adults, who chronicled their lives using disposable cameras. RESULTS Informant identities emerged in their everyday practices, reflecting varied positionalities that fundamentally shaped their notions of "age-friendly." Informants sought to sustain or improve their lives while attempting to negotiate socio-environmental forms and forces that often threatened their identity and increased their precarity. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Contrast exists between "invariant" macro/meso issues all older adults face as they age and "multivariant" ways in which age is accomplished based on place, biography, and intersectionality. Age-friendly environments may simultaneously maintain the status quo and exacerbate inequalities. Gerontology must take seriously how stratified life chances can undermine seemingly universal potential benefits of age-friendly environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarmin Yeh
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Institute for Health & Aging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Ronzi S, Orton L, Buckner S, Bruce N, Pope D. How is Respect and Social Inclusion Conceptualised by Older Adults in an Aspiring Age-Friendly City? A Photovoice Study in the North-West of England. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17249246. [PMID: 33321914 PMCID: PMC7764117 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17249246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Age-Friendly Cities (AFC) Guide classifies key characteristics of an AFC according to eight domains. Whilst much age-friendly practice and research have focused on domains of the physical environment, those related to the social environment have received less attention. Using a Photovoice methodology within a Community-Based Participatory Research approach, our study draws on photographs, interviews and focus groups among 26 older Liverpool residents (60+ years) to explore how the city promotes respect and social inclusion (a core WHO AFC domain). Being involved in this photovoice study allowed older adults across four contrasting neighbourhoods to communicate their perspectives directly to Liverpool’s policymakers, service providers and third sector organisations. This paper provides novel insights into how: (i) respect and social inclusion are shaped by aspects of both physical and social environment, and (ii) the accessibility, affordability and sociability of physical spaces and wider social processes (e.g., neighbourhood fragmentation) contributed to or hindered participants’ health, wellbeing, intergenerational relationships and feelings of inclusion and connection. Our findings suggest that respect and social inclusion are relevant across all eight domains of the WHO AFC Guide. It is core to an AFC and should be reflected in both city-based policies and evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ronzi
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1H 9SH, UK
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3DT, UK; (L.O.); (N.B.); (D.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Lois Orton
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3DT, UK; (L.O.); (N.B.); (D.P.)
- Department of Sociological Studies, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TU, UK
| | - Stefanie Buckner
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK;
| | - Nigel Bruce
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3DT, UK; (L.O.); (N.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Daniel Pope
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3DT, UK; (L.O.); (N.B.); (D.P.)
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Blakey J, Clews J. Knowing, Being and Co-Constructing an Age-Friendly Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17239136. [PMID: 33297454 PMCID: PMC7730679 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17239136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
A third of Aotearoa New Zealand’s increasingly ageing population resides in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. This most populous cosmopolitan urban area in the country is also home to the largest Polynesian population of any global city. Sprawling across a North Island isthmus inclusive of Hauraki Gulf islands, 70% of the city region is rural, whilst almost 90% of the ethnically diverse residents live in urban areas. Members of Auckland Council’s Seniors Advisory Panel (SAP) advocated for, and in 2018 secured unanimous support from the governing body to resource an Age-friendly City (AFC) Project. This case study inquiry applied bricolage methodology to provide diverse contextual perspectives of this unique Polynesian setting, prior to exploring interview narratives of three SAP members who served two consecutive terms (six years) as AFC advocates. Weaving insights gleaned from their interview transcripts responding to relational leadership prompts about their age-friendly advocacy with the findings from the council’s AFC Community Engagement report highlighted the achievements and challenges of the evolving AFC Project. Service-learning recommendations include co-developing: (1) A sustainable co-governance framework for an independent steering group that embodies the values and principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi to enable empowered active ageing for all residents; (2) A succession plan that enables the timely transfer of knowledge and skills to empower incoming SAP members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judy Blakey
- Comprehensive Care PHO, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
- Correspondence:
| | - Janet Clews
- The Trusts Community Foundation Ltd., Auckland 0650, New Zealand;
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Sánchez-González D, Rojo-Pérez F, Rodríguez-Rodríguez V, Fernández-Mayoralas G. Environmental and Psychosocial Interventions in Age-Friendly Communities and Active Ageing: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E8305. [PMID: 33182710 PMCID: PMC7696667 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Background: The academic literature contains little information regarding the interventions that create age-friendly cities and communities in order to promote active ageing. Objectives: A systematic review was carried out to determine the available empirical evidence in relation to the characteristics, content and effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving environmental and psychosocial risk factors for older people, from the perspective of age-friendly communities and the promotion of active ageing. Methods: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, the studies retained in this review were identified through a systematic search of the academic literature in selected electronic databases including Web of Science and Scopus. Independent critical appraisal and data extraction were conducted by two reviewers. The checklist was used to assess the quality of the articles. Findings: The search identified 1020 potentially eligible documents, of which 11 satisfied the established criteria. Non-exhaustive practices prevailed over rigorous investigations, with a high proportion of studies observed to be of low methodological quality and at high risk of bias. This reflected the predominance of uncontrolled interventions. Environmental interventions were focused on reducing risk and adapting the everyday environmental setting, while psychosocial interventions prioritised social strategies (behavioural changes, promotion of participation) and training. Interventions were more effective in certain domains of age-friendly cities and communities such as transportation and housing, followed by increased participation as a lifestyle-related behavioural change. The inferred changes were associated with providing information and enhancing skills; modifying access, barriers, exposures, and opportunities; enhancing services and support; continuity and effectiveness of changes over time; and modifying policies based on the bottom-up approach of age-friendly cities and communities (AFCC). Discussion and conclusion: Interventions focused on personal and organisational aspects might have positive effects in the longer term. However, fewer changes would be observed in interventions revolving around changing lifestyles owing to the impact of complex multi-causal factors. The relative effectiveness in terms of health calls into question the design of interventions and the supposed "friendliness" of certain communities. There is a need to encourage sound longitudinal research aimed at providing key knowledge for the implementation and evaluation of public policies, and to encourage age-friendly community programmes to promote active ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Sánchez-González
- Department of Geography, National Distance Education University (UNED), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Fermina Rojo-Pérez
- Research Group on Ageing (GIE-CSIC), Institute of Economics, Geography and Demography (IEGD), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), 28037 Madrid, Spain; (F.R.-P.); (V.R.-R.); (G.F.-M.)
- Ageing Network of the Latin American Population Association (ALAP), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Vicente Rodríguez-Rodríguez
- Research Group on Ageing (GIE-CSIC), Institute of Economics, Geography and Demography (IEGD), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), 28037 Madrid, Spain; (F.R.-P.); (V.R.-R.); (G.F.-M.)
- Ageing Network of the Latin American Population Association (ALAP), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gloria Fernández-Mayoralas
- Research Group on Ageing (GIE-CSIC), Institute of Economics, Geography and Demography (IEGD), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), 28037 Madrid, Spain; (F.R.-P.); (V.R.-R.); (G.F.-M.)
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