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Kwan C, Tam HC. "What If I Die and No One Notices?" A Qualitative Study Exploring How Living Alone and in Poverty Impacts the Health and Well-Being of Older People in Hong Kong. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15856. [PMID: 36497930 PMCID: PMC9739217 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315856] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Despite the growing number of older people who live alone and in poverty, the intersection of these two social risk factors and the impacts on older adults' health and well-being have not been widely examined. This qualitative study explores the challenges and strengths of 47 older people who live alone and in poverty in Hong Kong. Thematic analysis was used to identify eight themes related to challenges: (i) social isolation and loneliness, (ii) self-esteem and self-efficacy, (iii) declining mobility, health and activity levels, (iv) high medical expenses, (v) age discrimination and long wait times for medical health services, (vi) age discrimination, retirement, and wanting part-time employment, (vii) not enough gender-specific social participation activities, and (viii) housing insecurity. Four themes related to strengths were identified: (i) An "I have enough" mindset, (ii) strong formal social support, (iii) contributing to the community and others, and (v) "Most of us like to be alone." Successfully addressing poverty in old age and tackling the challenges associated with living alone will require focusing on and activating not only external and systemic resources but also the intrinsic capacities and strengths of older adults themselves. Five discussion points are raised addressing the implications for future gerontological research and practice.
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Examining Employment and Employment Barriers Among a Sample of Patients in Medication-Assisted Treatment in the United States. ADDICTIVE DISORDERS & THEIR TREATMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/adt.0000000000000295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Brongers KA, Hoekstra T, Roelofs PDDM, Brouwer S. Prevalence, types, and combinations of multiple problems among recipients of work disability benefits. Disabil Rehabil 2021; 44:4303-4310. [PMID: 33789067 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2021.1900931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE For persons on disability benefits who are facing multiple problems, active labour market policies seem less successful. Besides health problems, these people perceive personal, social, and environmental problems. Since very little is known about these "non-medical" problems our aim was to explore the prevalence of clients experiencing multiple problems, the types and number of perceived problems, combinations of perceived problems, and associated characteristics in a group of work disability benefit recipients. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study, using self-reported data on perceived problems and socio-demographics, and register data from the Dutch Social Security Institute on diagnosed diseases and employment status. A convenient group of labour experts recruited eligible clients on work disability benefit. RESULTS Of the 207 persons on work disability benefit, 87% perceived having multiple problems. Most reported problems were related to physical (76%) or mental (76%) health. Health problems most frequently occurred together with a mismatch in education, financial problems, or care for family members. Clients with lower education experienced significantly more problems than clients with an intermediate or high educational level. CONCLUSIONS Clients with multiple problems face severe and intertwined problems in different domains of life, and need tailored multi-actor work disability management.Implications for rehabilitationClients with multiple problems face severe and intertwined problems in different domains of life; therefore, interventions tailored to deal with needs related to specific problems might be more effective than traditional programs.Interventions should match experienced barriers, and involve multi-actor work disability management with all the challenges of mutual cooperation.For persons with multiple problems a focus on pure medical barriers is too narrow, because personal, social, and environmental factors might also obstruct participation in work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kor A Brongers
- Department of Health Sciences, Community and Occupational Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Research Center for Labour Expertise, Nijkerk, The Netherlands.,Dutch Social Security Institute: The Institute for Employee Benefits Schemes (UWV), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tialda Hoekstra
- Department of Health Sciences, Community and Occupational Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Research Center for Insurance Medicine, AMC-UMCG-UWV-VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pepijn D D M Roelofs
- Department of Health Sciences, Community and Occupational Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Research Center for Insurance Medicine, AMC-UMCG-UWV-VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Research Centre Innovations in Care, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra Brouwer
- Department of Health Sciences, Community and Occupational Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Research Center for Insurance Medicine, AMC-UMCG-UWV-VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Carolan K, Gonzales E, Lee K, Harootyan RA. Institutional and Individual Factors Affecting Health and Employment for Low-Income Women With Chronic Health Conditions. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2020; 75:1062-1071. [PMID: 30566614 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gby149] [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: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This qualitative study explored risk and protective factors affecting employment and health among low-income older women with chronic health conditions or physical disabilities. METHODS The authors conducted a secondary data analysis of 14 intensive interviews with low-income older women with chronic health conditions who had participated in a federally funded training and employment program for workers aged 55 and older. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The physical nature of the work and discrimination were risk factors, with unaccommodating work environments, ageism, and/or ableism, and internalized ageism identified as subthemes of discrimination. Protective factors, namely institutional supports (e.g., access to retraining, time management flexibility) enhanced health and self-confidence. Occupational demands matched with the capacity of the individual resulted in continued employment and improved health. DISCUSSION Working conditions can degrade health through exposure to mental and physical health risks, or support health through access to financial and interpersonal resources. Institutional supports such as workplace flexibility and retraining are crucial to obtaining a good fit between occupational demands and the capacity of individuals, enabling a positive relationship between employment and health. Legislation designed to prevent discrimination, enhance opportunities for lifelong learning, and encourage flexible work arrangements among low-income women with chronic health conditions may facilitate healthier working lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsi Carolan
- School of Social Work, Boston University, Massachusetts
| | | | - Kathy Lee
- School of Social Work, University of Texas at Arlington
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Walsh CA, Gulbrandsen C, Hewson J, Paul K. “Fallen Between the Cracks”: Exploring Subsidized Housing From the Perspectives of Low-Income Preseniors. JOURNAL OF AGING AND ENVIRONMENT 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/02763893.2019.1627264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Cari Gulbrandsen
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jennifer Hewson
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Karen Paul
- School of Social Work, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Harris K, Krygsman S, Waschenko J, Laliberte Rudman D. Ageism and the Older Worker: A Scoping Review. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2018; 58:e1-e14. [PMID: 28082278 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnw194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose of the Study Given the policy shifts toward extended work lives, it is critically important to address barriers that older workers may face in attaining and maintaining satisfactory work. This article presents a scoping review of research addressing ageism and its implications for the employment experiences and opportunities of older workers. Design and Methods The five-step scoping review process outlined by Arksey and O'Malley was followed. The data set included 43 research articles. Results The majority of articles were cross-sectional quantitative surveys, and various types of study participants (older workers, human resource personnel/manager, employers, younger workers, undergraduate students) were included. Four main themes, representing key research emphases, were identified: stereotypes and perceptions of older workers; intended behavior toward older workers; reported behavior toward older workers; and older workers' negotiation of ageism. Implications Existing research provides a foundational evidence base for the existence of ageist stereotypes and perceptions about older workers and has begun to demonstrate implications in relation to intended behaviors and, to a lesser extent, actual behaviors toward older workers. A few studies have explored how aging workers attempt to negotiate ageism. Further research that extends beyond cross-sectional surveys is required to achieve more complex understandings of the implications of ageism and inform policies and practices that work against ageism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Harris
- School of Occupational Therapy, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Sarah Krygsman
- School of Occupational Therapy, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Jessica Waschenko
- School of Occupational Therapy, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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Khan MN, Rothwell DW, Cherney K, Sussman T. Understanding the Financial Knowledge Gap: A New Dimension of Inequality in Later Life. JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK 2017; 60:487-503. [PMID: 28398136 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2017.1317311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
To understand individuals' financial behaviors, it is important to understand the financial knowledge gap - the distance between one's objective and subjective financial knowledge. Overestimating one's financial knowledge can lead to risky financial behaviors. To date, limited empirical work has examined how financial knowledge gap varies across age groups. We analyze the size and nature of the financial knowledge gap and its variation across age groups. Using nationally representative data, we find robust evidence that older adults overestimate their financial knowledge. Social workers can assess the financial knowledge gap and educate their clients to protect from financial fraud, exploitation, and abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David W Rothwell
- b Human Development and Family Sciences, Oregon State University, College of Public Health , Corvallis , Oregon , USA
| | - Katrina Cherney
- a School of Social Work, McGill University , Montreal , Québec , Canada
| | - Tamara Sussman
- a School of Social Work, McGill University , Montreal , Québec , Canada
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Abstract
In 1969, Butler (1969) first coined the term "ageism" to confront "prejudice by one age group toward other age groups" (pp. 243). As with other "isms," such as racism and sexism, ageism leads to bigotry and discrimination, though it is a very distinct beast in that, for the most part, other "isms" refer to those different from ourselves: distinct, mutually exclusive, and impervious groups. Conversely, age is a fluid social construct in which we are all intimately bound as we move through the lifespan, transitioning in and out of different age-groups. Unlike other "isms," individuals negotiate shifts from the "in-group" of youth to the "out-group" of old age. Yet we are all immersed, largely unconsciously, in this ubiquitous but too often unrecognized "ism" that needs to be named and challenged.
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Rooks RN, Simonsick EM, Schulz R, Rubin S, Harris T. Who Works Among Older Black and White, Well-Functioning Adults in the Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study? Gerontol Geriatr Med 2017; 3:2333721417727098. [PMID: 28894767 PMCID: PMC5582650 DOI: 10.1177/2333721417727098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Revised: 06/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study is to examine social, economic, and health factors related to paid work in well-functioning older adults and if and how these factors vary by race. Method: We used sex-stratified logistic and multinomial logistic regression to examine cross-sectional data in the Health, Aging, and Body Composition cohort study. The sample included 3,075 community-dwelling Black (42%) and White adults aged 70 to 79 at baseline. Results: Multinomial logistic regression analyses show Black men were more likely to work full-time, and Black women were more likely to work part-time. Men with ≥US$50,000 family income were more likely to work full-time. Men with better physical functioning were more likely to work full- and part-time. Women with ≥US$50,000 family income and fewer chronic diseases were more likely to work full-time. Women who were overweight and had fewer chronic diseases were more likely to work part-time. Discussion: Results suggest that well-functioning, older Black adults were more likely to work than their White counterparts, and working relates to better health and higher income, providing support for a productive or successful aging perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Susan Rubin
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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“Activated, but Stuck”: Applying a Critical Occupational Lens to Examine the Negotiation of Long-Term Unemployment in Contemporary Socio-Political Contexts. SOCIETIES 2016. [DOI: 10.3390/soc6030028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Dumbrell D, Steele R. Social Media Technologies for Achieving Knowledge Management Amongst Older Adult Communities. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sbspro.2014.07.165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Barusch AS. Introduction. JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK 2013; 56:279-280. [PMID: 23600598 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2013.794031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
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