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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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Han J, Ma H, Wang M, Li J. Construction and improvement strategies of an age-friendly evaluation system for public spaces in affordable housing communities: a case study of Shenzhen. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1399852. [PMID: 39091526 PMCID: PMC11293305 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1399852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Characterized by early construction periods, as the concentration of low-income populations and a high level of aging, affordable housing communities face prominent challenges such as incongruence between age-friendly construction and the needs of the older adult population. It is urgent to provide pathways and tools for identifying age-friendly issues and optimizing the built environment. The systematic evaluation of age-friendly communities serves as the foundation for implementing intervention measures by developers. Therefore, the construction of a scientifically systematic evaluation system becomes an objective necessity for age-friendly community development. Building upon existing research, this study systematically outlines the subjects, processes, methods, and content involved in constructing an age-friendly community evaluation system. By the methods such as factor analysis and analytical hierarchy process (AHP), the study focuses on the public spaces of affordable housing communities in Shenzhen as a case for constructing an age-friendly evaluation system. The empirical validation of the indicator system is conducted, and the application results are resulted into concrete improvement recommendations and action items, aiming to provide a practical, quantitative tool for community age-friendliness evaluation. The study reveals that adhering to an effective evaluation process, exploring collaborations among multiple stakeholders, determining hierarchical evaluation criteria, and adopting diversified evaluation methods are key to constructing an age-friendly evaluation system for communities. Additionally, the specificity of the evaluation system is influenced by regional demographic structures, policy backgrounds, and the built environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwen Han
- School of Architecture, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- School of Architecture, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hang Ma
- School of Architecture, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mohan Wang
- School of Architecture, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinqi Li
- School of Architecture, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
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McNeil-Gauthier AL, Milot DM, Levasseur M. How environments can promote active aging: results from a case study of two municipalities in Quebec, Canada. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH = REVUE CANADIENNE DE SANTE PUBLIQUE 2024; 115:117-131. [PMID: 37589791 PMCID: PMC10853091 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-023-00806-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To address global aging, a paradigm shift is needed from disease prevention and treatment towards active aging, i.e., optimizing opportunities for health, participation, and security as people age. Little is known about how age-friendly environments promote active aging. This study thus aimed to explore how (through which mechanisms and in what contexts) environments can promote active aging and, specifically, positive health, social participation, and health equity. METHODS Using a realist approach and semi-structured focus groups, a case study was used in two Quebec municipalities known for best fostering active aging. Data also included participants' logbooks, sociodemographic questionnaires, municipalities' sociodemographic profiles, and policy documents. A conceptual framework and thematic content analysis were carried out. RESULTS A total of 24 participants (9 older adults, 4 health professionals, 3 community-based actors, 5 municipal employees, and 3 elected officials) took part in 5 focus groups. Regarding contexts, both cases were midsize municipalities having an income and education level higher to Quebec's averages with supportive active aging policies. Two main themes explained how the environments promoted active aging: (1) by ensuring proximity through built (urban planning), social (network structures), services (variety and availability of local and outreach resources), and organizational (active listening to older adults' needs for active aging) environments; and (2) by fostering transversality through built (universal accessibility, intergenerational spaces), social (intergenerational opportunities for social participation), and political/organizational (unified and complementary policies) environments. CONCLUSION To better promote active aging through age-friendly environments, practices should focus on fostering proximity and transversality, and act simultaneously on multiple environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Lou McNeil-Gauthier
- Direction Régionale de Santé Publique de La Montérégie, CISSS of Montérégie Centre, Longueuil, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - David-Martin Milot
- Direction Régionale de Santé Publique de La Montérégie, CISSS of Montérégie Centre, Longueuil, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Mélanie Levasseur
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
- Research Centre On Aging, CIUSSS de L'Estrie-CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
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Sixsmith J, Makita M, Menezes D, Cranwell M, Chau I, Smith M, Levy S, Scrutton P, Fang ML. Enhancing Community Participation through Age-Friendly Ecosystems: A Rapid Realist Review. Geriatrics (Basel) 2023; 8:geriatrics8030052. [PMID: 37218832 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics8030052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
This rapid realist review explored the key components of age-friendly ecosystems that promote community participation among older adults. The study (undertaken in 2021 and updated in 2023) synthesized evidence from 10 peer-reviewed and grey literature databases to identify the underlying mechanisms and contextual factors that shape why, under what circumstances, and for whom an age-friendly ecosystems might be effective as well as the intervention outcomes. A total of 2823 records were initially identified after deduplication. Title and abstract screening produced a potential dataset of 126 articles, reducing to 14 articles after full text screening. Data extraction focused on the contexts, mechanisms, and outcomes of ecosystems for older adults' community participation. Analysis suggested that age-friendly ecosystems that aim to promote community participation are characterized by the provision of accessible and inclusive physical environments, the availability of supportive social networks and services, and the creation of opportunities for meaningful engagement in community life. The review also highlighted the importance of recognizing the diverse needs and preferences of older adults and involving them in the design and implementation of age-friendly ecosystems. Overall, the study has provided valuable insights into the mechanisms and contextual factors that contribute to the success of age-friendly ecosystems. Ecosystem outcomes were not well discussed in the literature. The analysis has important implications for policy and practice, emphasizing the need to develop interventions that are tailored to the specific needs and contexts of older adults, and that promote community participation as a means of enhancing health, wellbeing, and quality of life in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Sixsmith
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 4HJ, Scotland, UK
| | - Meiko Makita
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 4HJ, Scotland, UK
| | - Deborah Menezes
- The Urban Institute, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, Scotland, UK
| | - Marianne Cranwell
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 4HJ, Scotland, UK
| | - Isaac Chau
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 4HJ, Scotland, UK
| | - Mark Smith
- School of Humanities, Social Sciences and Law, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 4HN, Scotland, UK
| | - Susan Levy
- School of Humanities, Social Sciences and Law, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 4HN, Scotland, UK
| | - Pat Scrutton
- Intergenerational National Network, Glasgow G41 1BA, Scotland, UK
| | - Mei Lan Fang
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 4HJ, Scotland, UK
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Scher CJ, Greenfield EA. Variation in Implementing Dementia-Friendly Community Initiatives: Advancing Theory for Social Change. Geriatrics (Basel) 2023; 8:geriatrics8020045. [PMID: 37102971 PMCID: PMC10138101 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics8020045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Dementia-friendly communities (DFC) have emerged as a global movement to make communities more supportive and inclusive of people living with dementia (PLWD) and their care partners. This study contributes to a nascent body of research on DFC initiatives by building theory on their local implementation. Based on an analysis of data from semi-structured interviews with 23 leaders of initiatives in Massachusetts (United States), we aimed to identify key dimensions of variation in the implementation of DFC initiatives. We found that all initiatives engaged in a common set of activities, such as the facilitation of training about dementia and improving services for PLWD. Although initiatives mostly engaged in these activities in ways that targeted the community at large, in some instances, they concentrated their efforts on enhancing the dementia-friendliness of their own organizations. We describe ways in which financial, social, and human capital operate as key factors that influence the initiatives' primary focus (i.e., the community at large or their own organization). Our findings suggest the importance of helping DFC initiative leaders more explicitly specify the focal ecological level of their efforts throughout the trajectory of their work, especially in the context of resource considerations. Results also indicate ways in which DFC initiative efforts at one systems level can support those at other levels over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara J Scher
- Rutgers School of Social Work, 120 Albany Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Emily A Greenfield
- Rutgers School of Social Work, 120 Albany Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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Hong A, Welch-Stockton J, Kim JY, Canham SL, Greer V, Sorweid M. Age-Friendly Community Interventions for Health and Social Outcomes: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2554. [PMID: 36767920 PMCID: PMC9915867 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
To address the numerous challenges associated with aging, increased attention has been given to the development of age-friendly cities and communities (AFCC) to promote healthy aging and social participation. However, limited evidence exists for addressing both health and social needs through the AFCC framework. We address this gap by conducting a scoping review of the interventions that target both health and social outcomes within the purview of the AFCC framework. The results showed that many of the successful interventions used a partnership model and behavioral change theories to inform the program design and implementation. The results also indicated that social participation and engagement played a key role in making the interventions successful. However, the results revealed that the literature is dominated by person-focused approaches. Future research should focus more on evaluating environmental-focused interventions and develop a holistic framework that combines both person- and environment-based approaches to healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Hong
- Healthy Aging and Resilient Places (HARP) Lab, College of Architecture + Planning, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Department of City & Metropolitan Planning, College of Architecture + Planning, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Jessie Welch-Stockton
- Healthy Aging and Resilient Places (HARP) Lab, College of Architecture + Planning, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- College of Social Work, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Ja Young Kim
- Healthy Aging and Resilient Places (HARP) Lab, College of Architecture + Planning, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Department of City & Metropolitan Planning, College of Architecture + Planning, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Sarah L. Canham
- Healthy Aging and Resilient Places (HARP) Lab, College of Architecture + Planning, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Department of City & Metropolitan Planning, College of Architecture + Planning, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- College of Social Work, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Valerie Greer
- Healthy Aging and Resilient Places (HARP) Lab, College of Architecture + Planning, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- School of Architecture, College of Architecture + Planning, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Michelle Sorweid
- Healthy Aging and Resilient Places (HARP) Lab, College of Architecture + Planning, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
- Aging Brain Care Program, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
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Gan DRY, Cheng GHL, Ng TP, Gwee X, Soh CY, Fung JC, Cho IS. Neighborhood Makes or Breaks Active Ageing? Findings from Cross-Sectional Path Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063695. [PMID: 35329380 PMCID: PMC8951008 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mental ill-health prolongs and complicates other chronic illnesses, which is a major public health concern because of the potential stress it places on health systems. Prevention via active aging and place-based interventions thus became increasingly important with population aging, e.g., through health promotion and age-friendly neighborhoods. However, how the targeted outcomes of these efforts are related remains unclear. This paper examined whether the relationship between active living and mental health or health-related quality of life is mediated by neighborhood cohesion. Cross-sectional data were drawn from n = 270 community-dwelling adults aged 50 and above in the Gerontology Research Program—Center for Ageing Research in the Environment (GRP-CARE) Survey. Path analysis showed that one can live actively for better mental health (Btotal = 0.24), but it is largely mediated by neighborhood cohesion (37%). Further examination of the factors of neighborhood cohesion showed that this mediation is explained by communal affordance (Bindirect = 0.05) and neighborhood friendship (Bindirect = 0.05). Additional study of the association between these mediators and factors of mental health revealed two psychosocial processes: (1) better community spaces (e.g., greenery and third places) support communal living (B = 0.36) and help older adults obtain emotional support (B = 0.32) for greater autonomy (B = 0.25); (2) spending more time outdoors enhances neighborhood friendship (B = 0.33) and interpersonal skills (B = 0.37), which in turn improves coping (B = 0.39). In short, the effects of active living on health are limited by one’s neighborhood environment. Neighborhood cohesion must be considered or it may stifle individual and policy efforts to age actively and healthily in urban environments. Context-sensitive implementations are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R. Y. Gan
- Department of Gerontology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K3, Canada
- Correspondence:
| | - Grand H.-L. Cheng
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore;
| | - Tze Pin Ng
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore; (T.P.N.); (X.G.)
| | - Xinyi Gwee
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore; (T.P.N.); (X.G.)
| | - Chang Yuan Soh
- National Kidney Foundation Singapore, Singapore 328836, Singapore;
| | - John Chye Fung
- Department of Architecture, College of Design and Environment, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117566, Singapore; (J.C.F.); (I.S.C.)
| | - Im Sik Cho
- Department of Architecture, College of Design and Environment, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117566, Singapore; (J.C.F.); (I.S.C.)
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Han J, Chan EHW, Yung EHK, Qian QK, Lam PTI. A Policy Framework for Producing Age-Friendly Communities from the Perspective of Production of Space. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:2031. [PMID: 35206223 PMCID: PMC8872022 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Given various hindrances in the macro context, how to efficiently develop age-friendly community policies requires further research. Currently, such kinds of frameworks are lacking. This paper aims to develop a policy framework to minimise cost and resolve conflict of interest between different generations in age-friendly community development. The study adopted a scientometric method to review the theoretical development of age-friendly community studies. Firstly, with a search for the keywords "age-friendly" and "community" on Web of Science, 72 English academic papers were found containing explicit theories. Most of the studies were conducted in the Global North. Then, a mixed analytical method was used to find a suitable theory, "the production of space", to develop the policy framework. Lastly, a policy framework was developed to overcome barriers to age-friendly community development strategically. Echoing previous studies, this paper proposes a way to counter financial austerity in age-friendly initiative investment and balance the consideration for older and younger populations in urban development. For practice, the policy framework can provide a reference for more efficient age-friendly community policymaking in different regions. For future research, the framework provides a model for more empirical studies considering the social dynamics in age-friendly community development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbo Han
- Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China; (J.H.); (E.H.K.Y.); (P.T.I.L.)
| | - Edwin H. W. Chan
- School of Public Administration, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Esther H. K. Yung
- Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China; (J.H.); (E.H.K.Y.); (P.T.I.L.)
| | - Queena K. Qian
- Faculty of Architecture and The Built Environment, Delft University of Technology, 2628 Delft, The Netherlands;
| | - Patrick T. I. Lam
- Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China; (J.H.); (E.H.K.Y.); (P.T.I.L.)
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Gan DRY, Wister AV, Best JR. Environmental Influences on Life Satisfaction and Depressive Symptoms Among Older Adults With Multimorbidity: Path Analysis Through Loneliness in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2022; 62:855-864. [PMID: 35034124 PMCID: PMC9290896 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnac004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES More older adults with multimorbidity are aging in place than ever before. Knowing how the environment affects their mental well-being could enhance the efficacy of age-friendly interventions for multimorbidity resilience. With reference to the Transdisciplinary Neighborhood Health Framework, we construct and examine a priori models of environmental influences on life satisfaction and depressive symptoms. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Baseline and follow-up data (after 3 years) were drawn from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging to identify a subsample (n = 14,301) of participants aged at least 65 years with at least 2 chronic diseases. Path analysis examined sociobehavioral attributes (i.e., social support, social participation, walking) and loneliness as primary and secondary mediators, controlling for age, sex, education, and outcomes during baseline. RESULTS Good model fit was found (TFI = 1.00; CFI = 1.00; RMSEA < 0.001; SRMR < 0.001). The total effects of housing quality (rtotal = 0.08, -0.07) and neighborhood cohesion (rtotal = 0.03, -0.06) were weak but statistically significant in the expected direction. The mediators explained 21%-31% of the total effects of housing quality and 67%-100% of the total effects of neighborhood cohesion. Loneliness mediated 27%-29% of these environmental influences on mental well-being, whereas walking mediated a mere 0.4%-0.9% of the total effects. Walking did not explain the relationship between housing quality and mental well-being. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Data supported a priori pathways from environment to mental well-being through sociobehavioral attributes and loneliness. If these pathways from neighborhood cohesion to life satisfaction reflect causal effects, community-based age-friendly interventions should focus on enhancing neighborhood cohesion to mitigate loneliness among multimorbid older adults for their mental well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Y Gan
- Address correspondence to: Daniel R. Y. Gan, PhD, Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University, #2800-515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K3, Canada. E-mail:
| | - Andrew V Wister
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - John R Best
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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The Effect of Social Cohesion on Interest, Usefulness, and Ease of Use of a Driving Assistance System in Older Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111412. [PMID: 34769929 PMCID: PMC8583404 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between social cohesion and the perceived interest in, the usefulness of, and the ease of use of an instructor-based driver assistance system in a sample of older adults. With the aging of the population, the use of technologies to support the driving skills of the elderly is expected, and it is necessary to clarify the conditions under which the elderly will be interested in these advanced technologies. Traditionally, social cohesion has been focused on as a function of instrumental and practical support in the lives of the elderly. Since social cohesion reflects the intention to help each other, it could be an opportunity to provide information on advanced driving skill techniques to older people who are becoming more difficult to drive. As an initial exploration, this study examined whether social cohesion was associated with the interest in, the usefulness of, and the ease of use of an instructor-based driver assistance system in 150 elderly people. The results showed that a greater social cohesion was significantly associated with these evaluations, and that a comprehension of the system also contributed. The possession of a license was significantly associated with interest in the program. These findings are an essential step toward the understanding of the roles of social cohesion and positive perception of advanced technology in older adults.
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WHO's Global Age-Friendly Cities Guide: Its Implications of a Discussion on Social Exclusion among Older Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18158027. [PMID: 34360319 PMCID: PMC8345595 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18158027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
This study analyzed the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Age-Friendly Cities Guide to observe its role in embodying social inclusion of older adults in attempts to prevent social exclusion. Social exclusion refers to the marginalization of individuals and groups from important economic and social opportunities in the society. Many aging societies are implementing social inclusion of older adults as one of their key policy agendas to create a more sustainable and healthy society, in recognition that age functions as one of the essential factors accelerating social exclusion and declining physical and mental health of those affected. In order to explore the pertinence of the WHO guidelines to social inclusion of older adults, content analysis was conducted on each checklist item in the WHO guideline to identify its relation to the four dimensions of social exclusion, which are social interaction, production, consumption, and political engagement. The results showed comprehensive coverage of each dimension by the guideline, although the relative importance of each dimension was unequal. Additional insights were suggested to promote further social inclusion of older adults in the context of an age-friendly environment.
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Gan DRY, Mahmood A, Routhier F, Mortenson WB. Walk/wheelability: An inclusive instrument-pair for participatory aging-friendly research and practice. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2021; 62:e39-e47. [PMID: 34164673 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnab079] [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: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Recent critical evaluations of age-friendly efforts have highlighted the need to prioritize the disenfranchised, including people with mobility limitations. This article examines the validity of a 13-item scale (SWAN13) to measure the "walk/wheelability" of street segments from the perspectives of people with mobility limitations. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Data were drawn from preliminary studies of the Stakeholders' Walkability/Wheelability Audit in Neighborhoods (SWANaudit) which was conducted in two Canadian metropolitan areas. Sixty-one participants who use mobility devices (e.g., walkers, power wheelchairs) and older adults from community organizations audited 195 street segments. We factor analyzed the data from their audits. RESULTS SWAN13 has a one-factor structure. Thirteen items were retained from 85 SWANaudit items. SWAN13 encompassed both physical and social aspects of walk/wheelability. The alpha for the scale was .79. Convergent validity was found with the University of Alabama (UAB) Life-Space Assessment (rho=.22, p=.003), especially at the neighborhood level (rho=.23, p=.002). Significant correlation was also found with subjective assessments of a priori walk/wheelability domains (rho=.63, p<.001). DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Walk/wheelability affects the life space of older adults and people with mobility limitations. It is an important latent variable that should be addressed to promote well-being and social participation. SWAN13 may be used in city-wide surveys to identify neighborhoods that may require age-friendly interventions from mobility perspectives. Detailed audits and interventions may be carried out in tandem using the paired SWANaudit instrument. Walk/wheelability is an inclusive and measurable concept that accounts for the needs of people with various mobility needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Y Gan
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Atiya Mahmood
- Department of Gerontology, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - François Routhier
- Department of Rehabilitation, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - W Ben Mortenson
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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13
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Gan DR, Fung JC, Cho IS. Neighborhood atmosphere modifies the eudaimonic impact of cohesion and friendship among older adults: A multilevel mixed-methods study. Soc Sci Med 2021; 270:113682. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.113682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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14
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The Impacts of the Neighborhood Built Environment on Social Capital for Middle-Aged and Elderly Koreans. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13020756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the neighborhood built environment (NBE) aspects of age-friendly cities and communities (AFCCs) and social capital in the Korean context. We described and compared age differences when analyzing misfits of AFCC NBE and impacts on social capital. We collected the data (N = 1246) from two Korean communities; our multiple and binary logistic regression outcomes show that AFCC NBE aspects such as outdoor spaces, transportation, and housing are significant predictors of different subcategories of social capital. For the older group, the outdoor spaces misfit was significant for all three subcategories of social capital, but transportation and housing misfits were significant for the social trust and reciprocity index scores. For the middle-aged group, the outdoor spaces misfit was significant for social networking and participation, and a transportation misfit was significant for participation and social trust and reciprocity. Fewer misfits or better fits of outdoor spaces and transportation encouraged more networking, participation, social trust, and reciprocity. Dwelling type was important to predict social capital, especially for the older group. The present study confirmed the importance of AFCC NBE in predicting social capital and unique factors in the Korean context.
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Characterising older adults’ engagement in age-friendly community initiatives: perspectives from core group leaders in the Northeast United States of America. AGEING & SOCIETY 2020. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x2000166x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Researchers and programme champions alike have identified older adults as key contributors to age-friendly community change efforts. There has been very little scholarship, however, to characterise the nature of older adults’ engagement in age-friendly community initiatives (AFCIs). To help address this gap, we drew on five waves of data from semi-structured interviews with core group members of eight AFCIs in a Northeast region of the United States of America. Interviews were conducted as part of a multi-year, community-engaged study on the development of philanthropically supported AFCIs. We iteratively coded segments of the interviews in which core group members described the involvement of older adults, as well as their efforts to engage older adults in the initiatives. This analysis resulted in an inductive-analytic typology with five qualitatively distinct categories, including older adults as: (a) consumers (receiving information, goods and services through the AFCI), (b) informants (sharing perspectives on ageing in the community with the core group), (c) task assistants (assisting with project-oriented tasks under the direction of the core group), (d) champions (contributing ideas and implementing action on their own initiative), and (e) core group members (holding primary responsibility for driving the work of the AFCI forward). We discuss implications of the typology for research on AFCI implementation and evaluation, as well as opportunities for AFCIs to enhance the engagement of older adults from historically marginalised groups.
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Colibaba A, McCrillis E, Skinner MW. Exploring rural older adult perspectives on the scope, reach and sustainability of age-friendly programs. J Aging Stud 2020; 55:100898. [PMID: 33272458 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaging.2020.100898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Research into the sustainability of age-friendly initiatives is important and timely, particularly from the rather neglected perspective of older adults living in non-metropolitan (rural) environments. This paper addresses this gap by reporting on a Canadian rural community case study to understand the perspectives of older adults on the implementation and sustainability of their local age-friendly program. Findings from exploratory interviews with 10 older adults suggest that rural age-friendly initiatives may be limited in their ability to achieve larger-scale outcomes aimed at addressing broad aging issues facing rural communities. Further, our findings demonstrate that those 'aging in place' may continue to do so with the support of age-friendly programing, while those 'stuck in place' are largely unaffected by age-friendly programs. We advocate for additional in-depth examinations of rural age-friendly sustainability, including a greater emphasis on the diversity of older adult perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Colibaba
- Trent Centre for Aging & Society, Trent University, 1600 West Bank Drive, Peterborough, Ontario K9L 0G2, Canada.
| | - Elizabeth McCrillis
- Department of Psychology, Trent University, 1600 West Bank Drive, Peterborough, Ontario K9L 0G2, Canada.
| | - Mark W Skinner
- Trent School of the Environment, Trent University, 1600 West Bank Drive, Peterborough, Ontario K9L 0G2, Canada.
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17
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Ho EQY, Hong SI, Thang LL, Ong PH, Koh GCH. Falls Among Asians Living in Small Apartments Designed for Older Adults in Singapore. JOURNAL OF AGING AND ENVIRONMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/02763893.2019.1627265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Qiao-Ying Ho
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Song-Iee Hong
- Department of Social Welfare, Dongguk University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Leng Leng Thang
- Department of Japanese Studies, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Peck Hoon Ong
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gerald Choon-Huat Koh
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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18
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Age-friendly communities for older persons with intellectual disabilities. QUALITY IN AGEING AND OLDER ADULTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1108/qaoa-11-2018-0058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
The life expectancy for persons with intellectual disabilities (ID) has increased significantly, resulting in an increasing number of aging persons with ID. To promote healthy and active aging of persons with ID, discussions on new initiatives to design age-friendly communities have begun at local and international levels. The purpose of this paper, a qualitative research study, is to identify features of an age-friendly community, and facilitators and barriers from the perspectives of older adults with mild ID and their caregivers who live in the city of Winnipeg in Canada.
Design/methodology/approach
Seven older persons with mild ID were interviewed, and 15 caregivers participated in focus group discussions. All participants were asked questions about features of community living and their experiences in eight broad topic areas (i.e. transportation, housing, social participation, respect and social inclusion, opportunities for community involvement, communication and information, community support and healthcare services, and outdoor spaces and buildings).
Findings
The results indicated that many of the current features of the city of Winnipeg do not adequately address the needs of aging persons with ID; specifically, participants revealed that issues related to accessibility, social participation, social disrespect and inclusion, and lack of resources were important barriers to independence.
Originality/value
The findings will increase awareness of the needs of aging persons with ID and inform programme planning, service delivery, coordination of community-based services and policies to support healthy and active aging for this vulnerable population.
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Russell E, Skinner MW, Fowler K. Emergent Challenges and Opportunities to Sustaining Age-friendly Initiatives: Qualitative Findings from a Canadian Age-friendly Funding Program. J Aging Soc Policy 2019; 34:198-217. [DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2019.1636595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Russell
- Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark W. Skinner
- Dean of Social Sciences, Professor and Canada Research Chair in Rural Aging, Health and Social Care, Trent School of the Environment, Trent University, Peterborough, Canada
| | - Ken Fowler
- Professor, Department Head, Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Canada
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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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21
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Menec V, Brown C. Facilitators and Barriers to Becoming Age-Friendly: A Review. J Aging Soc Policy 2018; 34:175-197. [DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2018.1528116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Verena Menec
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Cara Brown
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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Greenfield EA. Getting Started: An Empirically Derived Logic Model for Age-Friendly Community Initiatives in the Early Planning Phase. JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK 2018; 61:295-312. [PMID: 29452063 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2018.1432736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Age-friendly community initiatives (AFCIs) foster efforts across stakeholders to make localities more supportive and inclusive of older adults, and potentially better for residents of all ages. This study drew on in-depth interviews with leaders of nine newly forming AFCIs in northern New Jersey to develop an empirically based logic model for the initiatives in the early planning phase. The results obtained from a conventional content analysis indicated three main activities in the early planning phase: assessing the community; meeting; and communicating with stakeholders; and facilitating communitywide communications. These activities worked toward two outputs: increased understanding of aging in the community and more engaged stakeholders in aging. Participants described leveraging the contributions of lead staff, consultants, elected officials, organizational partners, volunteers, interns, funders, and other AFCIs to engage in their focal activities. Based on these findings, a logic model for AFCIs in the early planning phase is presented. AFCI leaders can draw on this model to evaluate AFCI processes and outcomes in their formative stages, as well as to strategically plan for the start of an AFCI within a given locality. Findings also suggest important directions for future research on the development of AFCIs and the community changes that they seek to influence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Greenfield
- a School of Social Work Rutgers , The State University of New Jersey , USA
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