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Wang Y, Zhang H. Latent profile analysis of depression and its influencing factors in older adults raising grandchildren in China. Geriatr Nurs 2024; 59:67-76. [PMID: 38991297 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2024.06.047] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the latent profile of depression in older adults raising grandchildren in China, and to analyze the differences in the characteristics of the different profiles of the population and the factors influencing them. METHODS This study utilized the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Through a cross-sectional study, the latent profile analysis was used to analyze the potential classification of depression among older adults raising grandchildren, and using ordered multi-categorical logistic regression analyses to assess the effects of each factor on their different classifications. RESULTS The 1271 older adults raising grandchildren with depression symptoms were divided into three categories: low-level depression (55.4%), moderate-level depression (31.2%), and high-level depression (13.4%). Ordered multi-categorical Logistic results showed: Gender, marital status, pension insurance, physical health status, life satisfaction, and IADL were predictors of latent profile classification of depression symptoms in older adults raising grandchildren (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS In the future of primary care, it will be more meaningful to provide targeted interventions for different subgroups of depression in older adults raising grandchildren.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Wang
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Huijun Zhang
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, PR China.
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Ramli DB, Shahar S, Mat S, Ibrahim N, Tohit NM. The effectiveness of preventive home visits on resilience and health-related outcomes among community dwelling older adults: A systematic review. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306188. [PMID: 38950029 PMCID: PMC11216600 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This research aimed to assess the effectiveness of preventive home visits (PHVs) in enhancing resilience and health-related outcomes among older adults living in the community. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted in nine databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Emcare, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, PsycINFO and Cochrane Library. The search was undertaken between March 15 and 31, 2022 with subsequent updates performed on October 15, 2023 and April 10, 2024. This review also included grey literature sourced via Google, Google Scholar and backward citation searches. RESULTS Out of 5,621 records, 20 articles were found to meet the inclusion criteria with a total of 8,035 participants involved and the mean age ranged from 74.0 to 84.4 years. Using McMaster Critical Review Form for Quantitative Studies, we ascertained that the studies included in our analysis had moderate to high levels of quality. In addition to health-related outcomes, PHV interventions were also conducted to evaluate psychological effects (16 studies) and social outcomes (seven studies). Five studies conducted financial assessment to evaluate the costs of health and social care utilisation during PHV interventions. Regarding the results of the review, seven studies showed favourable outcomes, five indicated no effect and eight had equivocal findings. Only one study assessed resilience and determined that PHV had no effect on the resilience of the subjects. CONCLUSION This review found that the effectiveness of PHV interventions was uncertain and inconclusive. PHV interventions often prioritise health-related objectives. The incorporation of a holistic approach involving psychosocial health into PHV interventions is relatively uncommon. Due to the paucity of research on resilience as PHV outcome, we are unable to draw a conclusion on the effectiveness of PHV on resilience. Resilience should be prioritised as a psychological assessment in the future development of comprehensive PHV interventions, as it enables older adults to adapt, manage, and respond positively to adversities that may arise with age. Performing financial analysis such as costs and benefits analysis to incorporate the return on investment of PHV interventions is an added value for future research on this topic. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022296919.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayang Balkis Ramli
- Centre for Healthy Aging and Wellness, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Public Service Department, Prime Minister’s Office, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Suzana Shahar
- Centre for Healthy Aging and Wellness, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sumaiyah Mat
- Centre for Healthy Aging and Wellness, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Norhayati Ibrahim
- Centre for Healthy Aging and Wellness, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Noorlaili Mohd Tohit
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan, Bangi, Malaysia
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Lu A, Yu F, Tan X, Jin X, Wang X, Wu W. Association Between Self-Perception of Aging and Long-Term Mortality in Elderly Patients with Hypertension in Rural China: A Possible Beneficial Effect of Nut Intake. Clin Interv Aging 2024; 19:357-366. [PMID: 38464597 PMCID: PMC10921891 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s445378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Previous research has consistently shown that self-perception of aging (SPA) is an important predictor of health and longevity, while Chinese rural elderly patients with hypertension had poorer SPA. Whether it was associated with their mortality kept unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate the long-term mortality and analyze the association between SPA and this mortality in the specific context of rural elderly patients with hypertension. Patients and Methods This study is a longitudinal investigation of the mortality in elderly patients with hypertension in rural Suzhou, China. Sociodemographic and clinical data, SPA, and six-year mortality were investigated. We used binary logistic regression and subgroup analyses to assess the effect of SPA at baseline on six-year mortality. Results A total of 280 hypertensive patients aged 60 years and older participated in the study, of whom 21 died, with a six-year mortality rate of 7.5%. After controlling for covariates, the "Emotional representation" dimension (OR=2.824, 95% CI:1.034-7.712) in SPA remained a risk factor for death. In subgroup analyses of the group aged 75 years and older, high scores on the "Timeline cyclical" (OR=14.125, 95% CI: 1.258-158.593) and "Emotional representations" (OR=2.567, 95% CI:1.066-6.182) dimensions were associated with a higher risk of death, while weekly nut intake may have mitigated the negative SPA effect on mortality. Conclusion Poorer self-perception of aging was associated with a high risk of mortality in rural elderly patients with hypertension, while the habit of weekly nut intake might help reduce this risk in the group aged 75 years or older.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anping Lu
- Nursing Department, The First People’s Hospital of Changshu, Changshu, 215500, People’s Republic of China
- School of Nursing, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fangyi Yu
- School of Nursing, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaohan Tan
- School of Nursing, Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaohong Jin
- Nursing Department, The First People’s Hospital of Changshu, Changshu, 215500, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaohua Wang
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenya Wu
- Nursing Department, The First People’s Hospital of Changshu, Changshu, 215500, People’s Republic of China
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Stewart TL, Schumann ME, Ruthig JC. Development and validation of a scale to assess the belief that 'age causes illness'. Psychol Health 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38189349 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2023.2300037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Self-directed ageism is the application of stereotypic age-related beliefs to oneself, and is known to negatively impact health-related motivation (Levy, 2003; 2022). This study focused on the specific self-directed stereotype that 'age causes illness' and aimed to develop and test a multi-item measure to assess this implicit, limiting belief. METHODS AND MEASURES Survey data was collected from N = 347 adults in southeastern Idaho (ages 45-65 years old, 60% female). A variety of measures were used to assess the discriminant, convergent and predictive validity of the Age Causes Illness scale including: socio-demographics (age, sex, education), psychosocial resources (personality, optimism, social support, depressive symptoms), health/aging expectations, and indicators of physical health. RESULTS The seven-item Age Causes Illness scale is reliable and shows an expected pattern of discriminant and convergent correlations with relevant socio-demographic, psychosocial, and aging-related measures. The belief that 'age causes illness,' as assessed with this new scale, is related to both objective and subjective indicators of physical health. CONCLUSIONS The Age Causes Illness scale is a brief screening tool, potentially applicable in behavioral health settings as an initial step toward discussion of the implicit, and often unchallenged, belief that age alone determines the onset, progression, and offset of illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara L Stewart
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Matthew E Schumann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Joelle C Ruthig
- Department of Psychology, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
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Berger N, Koch S, Jungnickel K, Böl GF. Food safety in the aging population: Qualitative findings on what to communicate and how. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2023; 43:1843-1854. [PMID: 36368675 DOI: 10.1111/risa.14069] [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: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated older adults' risk perception, beliefs, and self-perception in the field of kitchen hygiene and food safety. A qualitative study with semi-structured focus groups was conducted. A total of 37 older adults (60-80 years of age) from Germany participated in four focus groups that were stratified by gender. Focus groups covered older adults' food-handling practices, their perceptions of vulnerability, and their informational needs in the field of food safety. A thematic analysis approach was adopted. The coding categories and subcategories were developed inductively by the researchers based on the data. The coded data were then used to identify overarching themes and subthemes. Main results showed that older adults had confidence in their knowledge and skills with regard to food safety, perceived their post-war generation overall to be resistant and other so-called at-risk groups to be more vulnerable. Moreover, they expressed low informational needs in the area of food safety. The results suggest that age-specific aspects play a role in older adults' risk perception and highlight the need to develop age-specific risk communication strategies that take into account older adults' beliefs, knowledge, and informational needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Berger
- Department Risk Communication, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Severine Koch
- Department Risk Communication, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Katrin Jungnickel
- Department Risk Communication, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Gaby-Fleur Böl
- Department Risk Communication, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
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Levy BR, Pietrzak RH, Slade MD. Societal impact on older persons' chronic pain: Roles of age stereotypes, age attribution, and age discrimination. Soc Sci Med 2023; 323:115772. [PMID: 36965204 PMCID: PMC10763575 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.115772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE In view of the severity and prevalence of chronic pain, combined with the limited success of long-term treatments, there is the need for a more expansive understanding of its etiology. We therefore investigated over time three societal-based potential determinants of chronic pain that were previously unexamined in this connection: negative age stereotypes, age attribution, and age discrimination. METHODS The cohort consisted of 1373 Americans aged 55 and older, who participated in four waves of the National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study, spanning seven years. RESULTS Consistent with the hypotheses, negative age stereotypes as well as age discrimination predicted chronic pain, and age attribution acted as a mediator between the negative age stereotypes and chronic pain. In a subset of participants who were free of chronic pain at baseline, those who had assimilated negative age stereotypes were 32% more likely to develop chronic pain in the next seven years than those who had assimilated positive age stereotypes. CONCLUSION Our finding that the three societal-based and modifiable predictors contributed to chronic pain refutes the widely held belief that chronic pain experienced in later life is entirely and inevitably a consequence of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Becca R Levy
- Social and Behavioral Science Department, Yale School of Public Health, USA; Psychology Department, Yale University, USA.
| | - Robert H Pietrzak
- Social and Behavioral Science Department, Yale School of Public Health, USA; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, USA
| | - Martin D Slade
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, USA
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Bodner E, Shrira A, Palgi Y. Attitudes to aging mediate the reciprocal effects of health anxiety and physical functioning. Psychol Health 2023; 38:190-208. [PMID: 34293984 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2021.1956496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand if attitudes to aging mediate the reciprocal effects of health anxiety and physical functioning among older adults with medical conditions. We examined: (1) if these effects are reciprocal; (2) if attitudes to aging (psychological loss, psychological growth, physical change) play a mediating role in these effects. DESIGN A sample of 226 community-dwelling older adults (T1 age range = 65-94, mean age = 73.59, SD = 6.29) reporting at least one chronic medical condition completed two phone interviews across six months. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Background measures, health anxiety, physical functioning, and attitudes to aging at T1 and T2. RESULTS T2 attitudes to aging served as a mediator controlling for T1 attitudes. There was a direct effect of worse physical functioning at T1 on increased health anxieties at T2. Negative (but not positive) attitudes to aging mediated that effect. The reversed temporal sequencing (T1 health anxiety leading to T2 physical functioning) was significant only when mediated by negative attitudes to aging. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that viewing aging as mostly a time of losses (but not as a time of gains) serves as an important mechanism through which health anxieties and physical functioning affect each other among older adults having chronic medical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehud Bodner
- Interdisciplinary Department of Social Sciences and the Department of Music, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Amit Shrira
- Interdisciplinary Department of Social Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Yuval Palgi
- Department of Gerontology and the Center for Research and Study of Aging, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Block C, König HH, Hajek A. Oral health and quality of life: findings from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe. BMC Oral Health 2022; 22:606. [PMID: 36517821 PMCID: PMC9753255 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-022-02599-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to clarify the link between oral health and quality of life among older adults in Europe. METHODS Cross-sectional data from wave 5 (n = 59,048 observations) were used from the representative Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe. Oral health was quantified by three questions: presence of all natural teeth (yes; no); among individuals with missing natural teeth, the number of missing teeth and the extent of replaced natural teeth were quantified. Quality of life was quantified using the widely used CASP-12. Multiple linear regressions were used to determine the association between oral health and quality of life, adjusting for various potential confounders. RESULTS Multiple linear regressions showed that higher quality of life was associated with (1) the presence of all natural teeth and among individuals with missing natural teeth, with (2) a lower number of missing natural teeth and (3) completely replaced natural teeth. Additionally, quality of life was positively associated with younger age, being female, being married or in a partnership, higher income, higher educational level, not currently smoking, a lower number of functional impairments, better self-rated health, a lower number of depressive symptoms and a lower number of chronic diseases. CONCLUSION Study findings showed an association between oral health and quality of life among older adults in Europe. Thus, the importance of good oral health for successful ageing was stressed. Future research is required to clarify the underlying mechanisms. Moreover, longitudinal studies are required to confirm our current findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celina Block
- grid.9026.d0000 0001 2287 2617Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University of Hamburg, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- grid.9026.d0000 0001 2287 2617Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University of Hamburg, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
| | - André Hajek
- grid.9026.d0000 0001 2287 2617Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University of Hamburg, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
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Lawson-Michod KA, Watt MH, Grieshober L, Green SE, Karabegovic L, Derzon S, Owens M, McCarty RD, Doherty JA, Barnard ME. Pathways to ovarian cancer diagnosis: a qualitative study. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:430. [PMCID: PMC9636716 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-02016-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage, when survival is poor. Qualitative narratives of patients’ pathways to ovarian cancer diagnoses may identify opportunities for earlier cancer detection and, consequently, earlier stage at diagnosis.
Methods
We conducted semi-structured interviews of ovarian cancer patients and survivors (n = 14) and healthcare providers (n = 11) between 10/2019 and 10/2021. Interviews focused on the time leading up to an ovarian cancer diagnosis. Thematic analysis was conducted by two independent reviewers using a two-phase deductive and inductive coding approach. Deductive coding used a priori time intervals from the validated Model of Pathways to Treatment (MPT), including self-appraisal and management of symptoms, medical help-seeking, diagnosis, and pre-treatment. Inductive coding identified common themes within each stage of the MPT across patient and provider interviews.
Results
The median age at ovarian cancer diagnosis was 61.5 years (range, 29–78 years), and the majority of participants (11/14) were diagnosed with advanced-stage disease. The median time from first symptom to initiation of treatment was 2.8 months (range, 19 days to 4.7 years). The appraisal and help-seeking intervals contributed the greatest delays in time-to-diagnosis for ovarian cancer. Nonspecific symptoms, perceptions of health and aging, avoidant coping strategies, symptom embarrassment, and concerns about potential judgment from providers prolonged the appraisal and help-seeking intervals. Patients and providers also emphasized access to care, including financial access, as critical to a timely diagnosis.
Conclusion
Interventions are urgently needed to reduce ovarian cancer morbidity and mortality. Population-level screening remains unlikely to improve ovarian cancer survival, but findings from our study suggest that developing interventions to improve self-appraisal of symptoms and reduce barriers to help-seeking could reduce time-to-diagnosis for ovarian cancer. Affordability of care and insurance may be particularly important for ovarian cancer patients diagnosed in the United States.
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Gao F, Zhou L, Gao Y, Zhang Y, Zuo A, Zhang X. Effects of physical and mental health factors and family function on the self-perception of aging in the elderly of Chinese community. Brain Behav 2022; 12:e2528. [PMID: 35920170 PMCID: PMC9480909 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To examine the effects of physical and mental health factors and family functioning on the self-perception of ageing in elderly people. METHODS A random cluster sampling method was used to select elderly people aged over 60 from three communities in Handan City. Subjects were evaluated via face-to-face interviews using the Chinese version of the Ageing Perception Questionnaire, the Family Function Scale, the SF-36 Short-Form Health Survey, and a self-compiled general questionnaire. A single factor and stepwise multiple regression analysis were evaluated using SPSS 17.0 software. RESULTS Among the 1815 elderly people surveyed, the total negative dimension score was 91.67 ± 16.58 with an index of 73.34%, which is higher than the positive dimension score (6.01 ± 0.52, 60.10%). Elderly people with varying degrees of family dysfunction accounted for 11.63%, and the score for self-perceived ageing in elderly participants with good family function was 95.74 ± 12.63. The proportions with poor physical and mental health factors were 45.40% and 28.10%, respectively, and the scores for ageing self-perception in elderly participants with good or moderate mental health were 89.11 ± 12.65 and 86.22 ± 12.58, respectively. A stepwise multiple regression analysis showed that age, presence of a spouse, and family function were positive protective factors for ageing self-perception, while physical health factors were risk factors for the positive dimension of self-perceived ageing. Age and family function were risk factors for the negative dimension of ageing self-perception, while physical and mental health factors were protective factors for the negative dimension of self-perceived ageing. CONCLUSIONS Younger elderly and elderly people with good family function have positive self-perceptions of ageing, while elderly participants with poor physical and mental health have a negative perception of ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengying Gao
- Department of Seven Orthopaedics - trauma orthopaedics, Handan Central Hospital of Hebei Province of China, Handan, Hebei Province, China
| | - Lijuan Zhou
- Department of Seven Orthopaedics - trauma orthopaedics, Handan Central Hospital of Hebei Province of China, Handan, Hebei Province, China
| | - Ya Gao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Weixian People's Hospital of Handan City in Hebei Province of China, Weixian, Hebei Province, China
| | - Yinglong Zhang
- Department of Management Section, Hebei Iron and Steel Group, Cold rolling plant of Handan Iron and Steel Company, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China
| | - Aifang Zuo
- Department of Seven Orthopaedics - trauma orthopaedics, Handan Central Hospital of Hebei Province of China, Handan, Hebei Province, China
| | - Xinkun Zhang
- Department of Seven Orthopaedics - trauma orthopaedics, Handan Central Hospital of Hebei Province of China, Handan, Hebei Province, China
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Lytle A, Apriceno M. Understanding Intergenerational Tension during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Role of Ambivalent Ageism. JOURNAL OF INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15350770.2022.2113586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Lytle
- Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken, NJ, United States
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Parker PC, Chipperfield JG, Hamm JM, Perry RP, Krylova MV, Chuchmach LM, Hladkyj S. Attributional retraining: Promoting psychological wellbeing in older adults with compromised health. Front Sports Act Living 2022; 4:949501. [PMID: 36051965 PMCID: PMC9424488 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2022.949501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Older adults make up the largest portion of the population of physically inactive individuals. Health challenges, and psychological barriers (e.g., maladaptive causal attributions), contribute to reduced activity engagement and low perceived control. This pilot study tested an attributional retraining (AR) intervention designed to increase control-related outcomes in a physical activity context for older adults with compromised health. Using a randomized treatment design, we examined treatment effects on a sample of older adults attending a day hospital (N = 37, Mage = 80). We employed ANCOVAs, controlling for age, sex, and morbidity, to assess differences in post-treatment outcomes between AR and No-AR conditions. AR recipients (vs. No-AR) reported lower post-treatment helplessness and more perceived control over their health. Our study offers evidence for AR to increase control-related outcomes and lays the groundwork for further research into supporting older adult populations with compromised health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patti C. Parker
- Department of Psychology, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, BC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Patti C. Parker
| | | | - Jeremy M. Hamm
- Department of Psychology, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
| | - Raymond P. Perry
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Masha V. Krylova
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | - Steve Hladkyj
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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Wang L, Liu W. Effects of Family Doctor Contract Services on the Health-Related Quality of Life Among Individuals With Diabetes in China: Evidence From the CHARLS. Front Public Health 2022; 10:865653. [PMID: 35602141 PMCID: PMC9114482 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.865653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Family doctor contract services (FDCS) has played a key role in diabetes management in China since 2016. The influence of FDCS on the physiological indexes of individuals with diabetes has been examined. However, little attention has been paid to its effect on the Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL). This study aims to fill this knowledge gap by evaluating the effect of FDCS on the HRQoL of individuals with diabetes. Methods We identified 382 individuals with diabetes receiving all follow-up surveys in 2013, 2015, and 2018 from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). The HRQoL of the included individuals was estimated using results from the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire. The propensity score matching with the difference-in-differences (PSM-DID) approach was applied to quantify the effect of FDCS on the HRQoL among individuals with diabetes. A robust test was performed by setting the 2015 data as the treatment group for the placebo test. Results The mean score of role-emotional (RE) increased from 54.25 to 61.63 among those who signed up to receive FDCS, while the corresponding score decreased from 57.77 to 51.04 among those who did not receive FDCS. Results from the regression analysis indicated that the use of FDCS was associated with significant improvement in RE (+14.10, p = 0.04) among individuals with diabetes. We did not find a statistically meaningful association between the FDCS and any of the other HRQoL domains: physical functioning (PF), role-physical (RP), bodily pain (BP), general health (GH), vitality (VT), social functioning (SF), and mental health (MH), respectively. The robustness analysis of the model indicated that the results were robust. Conclusion The FDCS for diabetes in China was associated with a significant improvement in RE. Due to a limited time since the launch of FDCS (i.e., 2016), the recipient's physical health did not show marked improvement. In the future, FDCS should pay more attention to the physiological health of individuals with diabetes. Moreover, psychological services also need to be maintained and not slackened. At the same time, it is strongly recommended to pay more attention to the HRQoL of individuals with diabetes and more comprehensive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjie Wang
- School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Wenbin Liu
- School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
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Seow PS, Byrne GJ, Arnold E, Pachana NA. Relationships Between Aging Attitudes and Successful Aging Outcomes in Middle-age and Older Women. Clin Gerontol 2022:1-13. [PMID: 35593153 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2022.2072791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore the relationships between aging attitudes and the outcomes of successful aging, including whether aging attitudinal types moderate psychological adjustment in the context of medical and mental health diagnoses. METHODS In total, 409 community-dwelling women aged 40-79 years in Australia completed the Reactions to Aging Questionnaire (RAQ), Geriatric Depression Scale, Center of Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, and Geriatric Anxiety Inventory. Information about medical and mental health diagnoses were collected. RESULTS Overall, aging attitudes and all three RAQ subscales were negatively correlated with scores on measures of depression and anxiety, and number of medical diagnoses. Attitudinal types toward aging were found to moderate the relationship between the number of mental health diagnoses and scores on the psychological measures of depression but not anxiety. Unique RAQ domain-specific relationships were found with the number of mental health diagnoses. CONCLUSIONS The findings support the link between aging attitudes and psychological outcomes, the potential clinical value of RAQ attitudinal typologies classification as well as a multidimensional conceptualization of aging attitudes. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS The findings reinforce the need for efforts to reduce ageism on a societal level, as well as informing clinical decision-making with older clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Shing Seow
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Queensland, Queensland, Australia
| | - Gerard J Byrne
- Academy of Psychiatry & Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Queensland, Queensland, Australia
- Mental Health Service, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Arnold
- Academy of Psychiatry & Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Queensland, Queensland, Australia
- Mental Health Service, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nancy A Pachana
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Queensland, Queensland, Australia
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15
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Self-perceptions of ageing and perceived health status: the mediating role of cognitive functioning and physical activity. AGEING & SOCIETY 2022. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x22000332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
There is evidence that perceived health status is relevant for older adults' wellbeing, and at the same time perceived health status can be influenced by self-perceptions of ageing. There is a lack of studies on the relationship between these variables. The aim of this study was to explore attitudes towards ageing and self-perceptions of ageing among Spanish middle-aged and older people, and to identify possible mediators in the relationship between self-perceptions of ageing on perceived health status. The sample comprised 1,124 individuals from 50 to 98 years old (mean = 64.84, standard deviation = 10.12) from the Ageing in Spain Longitudinal Study database, Pilot Survey (ELES-PS). Almost 70 per cent of the participants stated that old age begins at a specific chronological age and half of them considered that society treats older people with indifference. Self-perceptions of ageing, physical activity, cognitive functioning and age were significant predictors, and together these variables explained 15.9 per cent in the variance of perceived health status. The multiple mediation analysis revealed that self-perceptions of ageing predicted cognitive functioning (B = 0.848, p < 0.01) and physical activity (B = 2.9046, p < 0.001), and mediated the association between self-perceptions of ageing and perceived health status (B = 0.1144, standard error = 0.0147, p < 0.01). Results from this study highlight the importance of perceptions and attitudes towards ageing for older adults' health and wellbeing, thus this study contributes to a better understanding of how these variables are related. In this sense, results from this study can be useful for designing interventions for fostering wellbeing. Addressing negative self-perceptions of ageing and negative attitudes towards ageing can be particularly useful because they are associated with more pessimistic expectancies about the ageing process.
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16
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Vogel F, Vahle NM, Gertheiss J, Tomasik MJ. Supervised learning for analysing movement patterns in a virtual reality experiment. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2022; 9:211594. [PMID: 35601447 PMCID: PMC9039785 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.211594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The projection into a virtual character and the concomitant illusionary body ownership can lead to transformations of one's entity. Both during and after the exposure, behavioural and attitudinal changes may occur, depending on the characteristics or stereotypes associated with the embodied avatar. In the present study, we investigated the effects on physical activity when young students experience being old. After assignment (at random) to a young or an older avatar, the participants' body movements were tracked while performing upper body exercises. We propose and discuss the use of supervised learning procedures to assign these movement patterns to the underlying avatar class in order to detect behavioural differences. This approach can be seen as an alternative to classical feature-wise testing. We found that the classification accuracy was remarkably good for support vector machines with linear kernel and deep learning by convolutional neural networks, when inserting time sub-sequences extracted at random and repeatedly from the original data. For hand movements, associated decision boundaries revealed a higher level of local, vertical positions for the young avatar group, indicating increased agility in their performances. This occurrence held for both guided movements as well as achievement-orientated exercises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederike Vogel
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, School of Economics and Social Sciences, Helmut Schmidt University, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nils M. Vahle
- Department of Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
| | - Jan Gertheiss
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, School of Economics and Social Sciences, Helmut Schmidt University, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin J. Tomasik
- Department of Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
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17
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Taani MH, Strath SJ, Schiffman R, Fendrich M, Harley A, Cho CC, Yamada Y, Kovach CR. Self-management processes, sedentary behavior, physical activity and dietary self-management behaviors: impact on muscle outcomes in continuing care retirement community residents. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:48. [PMID: 35022022 PMCID: PMC8756701 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-021-02691-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the known benefits of non-sedentary behavior, physical activity, and protein and caloric intake to health and muscle mass, strength, and function, many older adults do not meet physical activity and dietary recommendations. A better understanding of the factors associated with sedentary behavior, physical activity and dietary self-management behaviors, and muscle outcomes (muscle mass, strength, and function) is needed, particularly among continuing care retirement community residents. The objective of this study was to examine the factors associated with sedentary behavior, physical activity and dietary self-management behaviors, and muscle outcomes among continuing care retirement community residents. It also aimed to determine whether sedentary behavior and physical activity and dietary self-management behaviors mediate the relationships between self-efficacy, goal congruence, aging expectations, social support, and muscle outcomes. METHODS A sample of 105 continuing care retirement community residents (age > 70 years) participated in this correlational, cross-sectional study. Questionnaires on pain, self-efficacy, goal congruence, aging expectation, social support, and daily protein and caloric intake were administered. Physical activity and sedentary behavior (ActiGraph wGT3X-BT), muscle mass (ImpediMed SFB7), muscle strength (Jamar Smart Digital Hand Dynamometer), and muscle function (Short Physical Performance Battery) were measured. Multiple regression, logistic regression, and mediation analyses were performed. RESULTS Low goal congruence predicted engagement in sedentary behavior and light physical activity. Higher levels of self-efficacy and social support were associated with increased likelihoods of achieving greater moderate physical activity and meeting daily recommendations for caloric intake, respectively. Self-efficacy and goal congruence predicted muscle function and strength. Moreover, sedentary behavior and achieving greater moderate physical activity were found to partially but significantly mediate the relationship between self-efficacy and muscle function. CONCLUSION Future research should evaluate whether attempts to reduce sedentary behavior and promote physical activity and dietary self-management behaviors and muscle outcomes are more successful when modifications to the self-management process factors are also targeted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murad H Taani
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 1921 East Hartford Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53211, USA.
| | - Scott J Strath
- College of Health Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 2400 E Hartford Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53211, USA
| | - Rachel Schiffman
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 1921 East Hartford Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53211, USA
| | - Michael Fendrich
- School of Social Work, University of Connecticut, Mansfield, USA
| | - Amy Harley
- UWM Joseph J. Zilber School of Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 1240 N 10th St, Milwaukee, WI, 53205, USA
| | - Chi C Cho
- College of Health Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 2400 E Hartford Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53211, USA
| | - Yosuke Yamada
- National Institute of Health and Nutrition, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Tokyo, 162-8636, Japan
| | - Christine R Kovach
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 1921 East Hartford Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53211, USA
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18
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Rupprecht FS, Sabatini S, Diehl M, Gerstorf D, Kaspar R, Schilling OK, Wahl HW. Awareness of age-related change in the context of major life events. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:954048. [PMID: 36386972 PMCID: PMC9650375 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.954048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Although gains and losses are an integral part of human development, the experience of change and readjustment that often comes with major life events may be particularly influential for an individual's subjective aging experience and awareness of age-related change (AARC). Thus, this study focused on the role of life events in the domains of family and health for an individual's awareness of age-related gains and losses. Specifically, we differentiated between the experience of specific life events (e.g., entering a new romantic relationship; hospital stay) and the cumulative experience of multiple life events. Furthermore, we differentiated between life events experienced at an expected time in life and life events experienced relatively early or relatively late compared to established social norms. Data came from the Innovation Sample of the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP-IS) and consisted of 1,612 participants aged 16 to 93 years (M = 54.1; SD = 18.2). Life events were assessed annually and retrospectively for the last 2 years. Propensity score matching provided evidence for an association of specific family life events and a higher awareness of age-related gains, as well as specific health life events and a higher awareness of age-related losses. Results furthermore indicated that the cumulative experience of family life events was associated with a higher awareness of age-related gains. Conversely, the cumulative experience of health events was associated with higher awareness of both age-related losses and age-related gains. Moreover, it was not only life events happening at an expected age, but also those happening relatively early and particularly those happening late in life, which were associated with AARC. In summary, life events and the change they may bring seem to be reflected in individuals' awareness of age-related losses and awareness of age-related gains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona S Rupprecht
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Serena Sabatini
- Università della Svizzera Italiana, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Manfred Diehl
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - Denis Gerstorf
- Institute for Psychology, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Roman Kaspar
- Cologne Center for Ethics, Rights, Economics, and Social Sciences of Health, Cologne, Germany
| | - Oliver K Schilling
- Psychological Institute, Ruprecht-Karls University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hans-Werner Wahl
- Psychological Institute, Ruprecht-Karls University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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19
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Malnutrition–Sarcopenia Syndrome and Self-Management Behaviors in Continuing-Care Retirement Community Residents. Geriatrics (Basel) 2021; 7:geriatrics7010009. [PMID: 35076519 PMCID: PMC8788284 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics7010009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Malnutrition–sarcopenia syndrome (MSS) might put older adults at higher risk for disability, frailty, and mortality. This study examined the prevalence and association of the self-management-process factors (i.e., self-efficacy and aging expectations) and behaviors (protein and caloric intake and sedentary and physical-activity behaviors) to MSS among older adults living in continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). Using a cross-sectional correlational design, data of 96 CCRC residents (82.4 ± 7.4 years) were analyzed. Muscle mass, strength, function, nutritional status, sedentary time, physical activity levels, protein and caloric intake, self-efficacy for physical activity, aging expectations, and physical and mental health-related quality of life were measured. Results show that 36 (37.5%) had sarcopenia, 21 (21.9%) had malnutrition risk, 13 (13.4%) had malnutrition, and 12 (12.5%) had MSS. We also found that high time spent in sedentary behaviors (OR = 1.041; 95% CI: 1.011–1.071) was associated with higher odds of having MSS and high expectations regarding aging (OR = 0.896; 95% CI: 0.806–0.997) were associated with less likelihood of having MSS. Findings suggest that CCRC residents should be screened for MSS. Self-management interventions that consider the self-management-process factors are needed to prevent MSS and mitigate its negative outcomes among CRCC residents.
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20
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Blawert A, Schäfer SK, Wurm S. Associations of Agency and Communion With Domain-Specific Self-Perceptions of Aging: A Cross-Sectional Study In Old-Old Adults in Poor Health. Int J Aging Hum Dev 2021; 95:245-262. [PMID: 34658260 PMCID: PMC9289974 DOI: 10.1177/00914150211050874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
A large body of research indicates that self-perceptions of aging (SPA) play an important role for health in later life. Hence, more research on SPA and correlates is needed, especially in old age and poor health, where negative SPA tend to prevail. Recent studies identified personality as an important correlate of SPA in young-old and relatively healthy samples. Thus, we investigated cross-sectional associations of agency and communion with two SPA domains in a sample of old-old adults in poor health (n = 154; Mage = 81.55, SD = 4.56, 58.4% women). In multiple regression analyses, agency and communion were associated with SPA related to ongoing development beyond health. In contrast, only health as a covariate was significantly associated with SPA related to physical losses. Thus, personality may be a resource associated with gain-related SPA, at least for those in poor health and old age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Blawert
- Department for Prevention Research and Social Medicine, Institute for Community Medicine, 60634University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sarah K Schäfer
- Department for Prevention Research and Social Medicine, Institute for Community Medicine, 60634University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Susanne Wurm
- Department for Prevention Research and Social Medicine, Institute for Community Medicine, 60634University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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21
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Blawert A, Krumpoch S, Freiberger E, Wurm S. Domain-specific self-perceptions of aging are associated with different gait patterns in older adults: a cross-sectional latent profile analysis. BMC Geriatr 2021; 21:392. [PMID: 34187372 PMCID: PMC8243892 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-021-02320-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies have pointed to the impact of self-perceptions of aging (SPA) on self-reported physical function in later life. However, less is known about associations of SPA with objectively measured physical function, especially gait. Research that examined other psychological variables and objectively measured gait has focused on single gait parameters such as gait speed, which seems to fall short for the complexity of this movement. Some approaches have proposed ways to identify gait patterns in specific patient groups, but not in community samples. Our goal was (a) to identify gait patterns based on a combination of important gait parameters in a community sample, and (b) to investigate differential associations of gain- and loss-related SPA with these gait patterns. Methods The study used an electronic walkway to assess gait parameters of 150 community dwelling adults aged 71–93 years (61.0% women) at their usual and maximum gait speed. SPA were assessed with a questionnaire. We used latent profile analysis (LPA) to identify groups exhibiting distinct gait patterns and binary logistic regression to investigate associations of SPA with these groups, controlling for personality traits, number of illnesses, age, gender, and education. To compare overall function between groups, a t-test for scores in the Short Physical Performance Battery was used. Results LPA revealed two distinct groups in both gait speed conditions. The fit group exhibited a stable, well-coordinated and faster gait pattern, while the functionally limited group’s gait pattern was less stable, less coordinated and slower. The odds of belonging to the functionally limited group were increased by loss-related SPA at usual gait speed, while the odds of belonging to the fit group were increased by gain-related SPA at individual maximum speed. Conclusions The findings (a) suggest LPA as a useful approach to investigate complex gait patterns considering several gait parameters simultaneously, and (b) provide first evidence for differential associations of gain- and loss-related SPA with gait patterns at usual and maximum gait speed. Intervention studies addressing gait in older adults should additionally address gain-related views on aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Blawert
- Department of Prevention Research and Social Medicine, Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Walther-Rathenau-Str. 48, 17475, Greifswald, Germany.
| | - Sebastian Krumpoch
- Institute for Biomedicine of Aging, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Nürnberg, Germany
| | - Ellen Freiberger
- Institute for Biomedicine of Aging, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Nürnberg, Germany
| | - Susanne Wurm
- Department of Prevention Research and Social Medicine, Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Walther-Rathenau-Str. 48, 17475, Greifswald, Germany
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22
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Nilsson G, Ekstam L, Axmon A, Andersson J. Old Overnight: Experiences of Age-Based Recommendations in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic in Sweden. J Aging Soc Policy 2021; 33:359-379. [PMID: 34010122 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2021.1925042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The Swedish response to the COVID-19 pandemic included age-based recommendations of voluntary quarantine specifically for those 70 years of age or older. This paper investigates the experiences of a sudden change of policy in the form of an age restriction that trumped the contemporary active aging ideal. A web-based qualitative survey was conducted in April 2020. Through manual coding of a total of 851 responses, six different ways of relating to the age-based recommendations were identified. The results show that age is not an unproblematic governing principle. Instead, in addition to protecting a vulnerable group, the age-based recommendation meant deprivation of previously assigned individual responsibility and, consequently, autonomy. It is shown how respondents handled this tension through varying degrees of compliance and resistance. Findings highlight the importance of continuously tracking the long-term consequences of age-based policy to avoid negative self-image and poorer health among older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Nilsson
- Associate professor, Department of Arts and Cultural Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lisa Ekstam
- Associate professor, Department of Arts and Cultural Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Anna Axmon
- Associate professor, EPI@LUND (Epidemiology, Population Studies, and Infrastructures at Lund University), Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Janicke Andersson
- Associate professor, School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden
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23
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Brothers A, Kornadt AE, Nehrkorn-Bailey A, Wahl HW, Diehl M. The Effects of Age Stereotypes on Physical and Mental Health Are Mediated by Self-perceptions of Aging. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 76:845-857. [PMID: 33057726 PMCID: PMC8063677 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbaa176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although the evidence linking views on aging (VoA) with aging outcomes is robust, little is known about how different types of VoA may interact to influence such outcomes. Therefore, this study examined two types of VoA, age stereotypes (AS), representing general VoA, and self-perceptions of aging (SPA), representing personal VoA. We operationalized SPA in terms of awareness of age-related change (AARC), distinguishing between gain- and loss-related SPA (e.g., awareness of positive and negative age-related changes, respectively). Based on theoretical reasoning, we hypothesized that AS would be an antecedent of SPA, and that the effect of AS on physical and mental health would be mediated by SPA. METHOD A total of 819 German and U.S. adults aged 40-98 completed a survey on VoA, physical health, and mental health at baseline and 2.5 years later. Structural equation modeling with latent variables was used to examine the effects of Time 1 AS (predictor) and Time 2 gain- and loss-related SPA (mediators) on physical and mental health outcomes. RESULTS As hypothesized, AS predicted later SPA. Loss-related SPA mediated the effect of AS on physical health; both gain- and loss-related SPA mediated the effect of AS on mental health. DISCUSSION Congruent with theoretical assumptions, our findings provide empirical support for a directional pathway by which AS shape later SPA. We conclude that AS and SPA may affect physical health outcomes more strongly than mental health outcomes. Studies that assess both types of VoA are needed to illuminate the pathways by which VoA influence aging outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allyson Brothers
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Colorado State University, Fort Collins
| | - Anna E Kornadt
- Department of Behavioral and Cognitive Sciences, University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette
| | | | - Hans-Werner Wahl
- Department of Psychological Aging Research, Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Manfred Diehl
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Colorado State University, Fort Collins
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24
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Apriceno M, Lytle A, Monahan C, Macdonald J, Levy SR. Prioritizing Health Care and Employment Resources During COVID-19: Roles of Benevolent and Hostile Ageism. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2021; 61:98-102. [PMID: 33119089 PMCID: PMC7665451 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnaa165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Benevolent and hostile ageism are subtypes of ageism that characterize older adults as incompetent. With benevolent ageism, older adults are also viewed as warm. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has strained resources and prompted debates about priority for older adults versus other groups. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS College students completed an online survey of how much priority should be given to older adults in 3 relevant health care-related scenarios and 3 relevant employment scenarios. RESULTS Benevolent ageism significantly predicted higher priority for older adults to receive health care (triage, COVID-19 vaccine, and COVID-19 testing) and employment resources (retention of job and working from home) while greater endorsement of hostile ageism significantly predicted lower priority ratings. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS These findings replicate and extend past work. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc on health care and employment resources, this study sheds light on one factor-benevolent and hostile ageism-that contributes to a greater understanding of prioritization views toward a vulnerable segment of the population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashley Lytle
- College of Arts and Letters, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, New Jersey, USA
| | - Caitlin Monahan
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, New York, USA
| | - Jamie Macdonald
- Psychology Department, St Francis College, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Sheri R Levy
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, New York, USA
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25
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Abstract
Perceptions of age and perceptions of health have each been found to predict future health and well-being, yet surprisingly, studies typically focused on one or the other. Studies on perceived age suggested that its effects on longevity may be mediated by perceived health. Within each of these lines of research, the constructs have not been consistently operationalized, making it difficult to generalize across studies. We aimed to investigate the associations of different measures of perceptions of age and of health with one another and with longevity. Data collected at baseline from the 851 participants of the Rutgers Aging and Health longitudinal study (mean age 73) included perceptions of age and health, each assessed with four different single-item measures, sociodemographic, and health measures. Mortality was followed-up for 10 years. All four health perceptions and two of the age perceptions (Age-group identity and nearness-to-death) were associated with survival time. Age and health perceptions had similar independent effects in models that included measures of both types, controlling for demographics and chronic conditions, though not after controlling for age. In contrast with our hypothesis, health perceptions did not mediate the association between age perceptions and mortality. Findings regarding health perceptions were generally consistent across measures, whereas age perception measures differed in their associations with various outcomes, indicating that they assess different subjective age constructs. The findings correspond with proposed explanations for the predictive effect of age and health perceptions and support the significant though weaker independent effects of age perceptions compared with health perceptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Benyamini
- Bob Shapell School of Social Work, Tel Aviv University, 6997801 Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Edith Burns
- Department of Medicine, Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine, Manhasset, NY 11030 USA
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26
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Giasson HL, Chopik WJ. Geographic patterns of implicit age bias and associations with state‐level health outcomes across the United States. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ejsp.2707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah L. Giasson
- Department of Psychology Stanford University Stanford California USA
| | - William J. Chopik
- Department of Psychology Michigan State University East Lansing Michigan USA
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27
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‘I've never given it a thought’: older men's experiences with and perceptions of ageism during interactions with physicians. AGEING & SOCIETY 2020. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x20001476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe subjective experience of ageism among older men has received little research attention. This study examines older Canadian men's experiences with and perceptions of ageism during interactions with physicians. In-depth, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 21 men aged 55 years and over. The findings indicate a seeming lack of awareness of ageism among many, and many did not believe ageism was likely to occur during patient–physician interaction. Negative stereotyping of older patients was common. A large majority of the participants reported that they had not personally experienced ageism during a medical encounter, nor were they concerned about it. Numerous rationales were proffered as explanations of why a particular participant had not experienced ageism and who was more likely to be a target.
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28
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Menkin JA, Smith JL, Bihary JG. Brief Anti-Ageism Messaging Effects on Physical Activity Motivation Among Older Adults. J Appl Gerontol 2020; 41:478-485. [DOI: 10.1177/0733464820960925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
When people have more negative perceptions about aging or attribute health decline to old age, they engage in less health promotion behavior. We tested whether an intervention of brief anti-ageism messages addressing views of aging could motivate engagement in physical activities at senior centers. Attendees aged 50 and older ( n = 349; Mage = 72, SD = 9) at seven centers were randomly assigned to read one of three intervention messages (different approaches addressing views of aging) or to not read a message before rating their likelihood of attending a variety of center programs, including physical activities. Multilevel regression models indicated the intervention increased motivation to attend physical activities compared with the control group among participants aged 72 and older. The three anti-ageism messages were similarly effective suggesting some flexibility in framing. The results indicate anti-ageism messages may be a scalable, low-cost approach to promoting physical activity in older adults.
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Rothermund K, de Paula Couto MCP, Fung HH, Graf S, Hess TM, Liou S, Nikitin J. Age-Related Attributions of Experienced Changes in Life: Origins and Implications. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2020; 76:881-893. [DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbaa160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
Attributing life changes to age represents a core marker of the subjective experience of aging. The aims of our study were to investigate views on aging (VA) as origins of age-related attributions of life changes and to investigate the implications of these age-related attributions for personal control (PC) and life satisfaction (LS).
Methods
Life changes and the attribution of life changes to age were independently assessed on a large international sample of older adults (N = 2,900; age range 40–90 years) from the Ageing as Future project. The valence of VA, PC, and LS were also assessed to investigate possible determinants (VA) and consequences (PC and LS) of age-related attributions of life changes.
Results
Attributions to age were shown to depend on the valence of experienced life changes, with more negative changes being linked to more age-related attributions. This relation was moderated by the valence of personally held VA, with more negative VA amplifying the relation between negative life changes and age-related attributions. Age-related attributions predicted reduced PC and lower LS and were found to exacerbate the effects of negative life changes on LS, especially for the older cohorts of our sample.
Discussion
Our findings help to better understand what determines age-related attributions of life changes and highlight the negative consequences of attributing them to aging. Age-related attributions of change are a major factor that worsens the subjective aging experience. Methodologically, our study emphasizes the necessity to separately assess changes and their attributions to age.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Helene H Fung
- Chinese University of Hong Kong, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Sylvie Graf
- Czech Academy of Sciences, Praha, Czech Republic
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Reducing Ageism: Changes in Students’ Attitudes after Participation in an Intergenerational Reverse Mentoring Program. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12176870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Ageism is a societal concern that greatly affects the social, emotional, physical, and mental health of older adults. One way to decrease ageist attitudes and improve the treatment of older adults is to address and improve age stereotypes among young adults. Using data from students participating in an intergenerational digital-learning program, the present study investigated change in students’ stereotypes of older adults and aging. We examined change from pre- and post-scores in student attitudes toward older adults and the type of adjectives used to describe older adults. We also analyzed responses to open-ended questions about changes in perception of older adults and aging and interest in working with older adults. Findings showed that: (1) Students’ attitudes improved following participation in the program; (2) students used fewer negative words to describe older adults following participation; (3) answers to open-ended questions demonstrated that many students improved their perceptions of older adults; and (4) many students showed increased interest in working with older adults in their future careers. Programs that reduce age stereotypes should be promoted in order to reduce young people’s harmful ageist stereotypes, ensure respectful treatment of older adults in all workplace and social situations, and increase interest in aging-related fields.
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Carlson KJ, Black DR, Holley LM, Coster DC. Stereotypes of Older Adults: Development and Evaluation of an Updated Stereotype Content and Strength Survey. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2020; 60:e347-e356. [PMID: 31141138 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnz061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Stereotypes are beliefs about a particular group often adopted to bypass complex information processing. Like racism and other forms of discrimination, ageism affects individuals and society as a whole. The purpose of the study was to analyze the Stereotype Content and Strength Survey (SCSS) designed to update assessment tools commonly used to measure stereotypes of older adults. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS An updated survey was developed including aging-related descriptive items from previously published studies. Students enrolled at two Midwestern universities (n = 491) were directed to think about their perceptions of "older adults" and select the proportion they believed could be described by the items used in the tool. Response categories for each descriptive item were dichotomized and operationalized to be a strong stereotype if the collapsed response percentage was significantly ≥80%. RESULTS A Principal Axis Factor analysis and Direct Oblim rotation was computed on 117 descriptive items representing positive, negative, and physical characteristics, resulting in a 3-factor model with acceptable psychometric properties. Cronbach alpha analyses revealed reliable scales for negative (α = .92), positive (α = .88), and physical (α = .81) stereotypes. Of 117 descriptive items, 33 emerged as strong stereotypes including 30 positive, 2 physical, and 1 negative item. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS This updated assessment has the potential to contribute to an understanding of the existence of age-related stereotypes as well as the strength, or the proportion of older adults who could be described by each of the items used in the SCSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy J Carlson
- Department of Internal Medicine Hospitalist Division, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha
| | - David R Black
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Lyn M Holley
- Department of Gerontology, University of Nebraska Omaha
| | - Daniel C Coster
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Utah State University, Logan
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Questionnaire measures of self-directed ageing stereotype in older adults: a systematic review of measurement properties. Eur J Ageing 2020; 18:117-144. [PMID: 33746687 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-020-00574-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The population is ageing, but while average life expectancy continues to increase, healthy life expectancy has not necessarily matched this and negative ageing stereotypes remain prevalent. Self-directed ageing stereotypes are hypothesised to play an important role in older adults' health and well-being; however, a wide variety of terms and measures are used to explore this construct meaning there is a lack of clarity within the literature. A review was conducted to identify tools used to measure self-directed ageing stereotype in older adults and evaluate their quality. Searches identified 109 papers incorporating 40 different measures. Most common were the Philadelphia Geriatric Centre Morale Scale Attitude Towards Own Ageing (ATOA) subscale, Ageing Perceptions Questionnaire (APQ) and Attitudes to Ageing Questionnaire. Despite being most frequently used, the ATOA was developed to measure morale in older adults rather than self-directed ageing stereotypes. Over 25 terms were used to describe the concept, and it is suggested that for consistency the term "self-directed ageing stereotype" be adopted universally. Across measures, poor reporting of psychometric properties made it difficult to assess scale quality and more research is needed to fully assess measures before conclusions can be drawn as to the best tool; however, the Brief-APQ appears to hold most promise. Future research must address this issue before interventions to reduce negative self-directed ageing stereotypes can be developed and fully evaluated.
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Klusmann V, Sproesser G, Wolff JK, Renner B. Positive Self-perceptions of Aging Promote Healthy Eating Behavior Across the Life Span via Social-Cognitive Processes. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2020; 74:735-744. [PMID: 29186555 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbx139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Negative self-perceptions of aging (SPA) have been shown to result in lower levels of preventive behavior, health, and longevity. This study focuses on the understudied SPA effects on healthy eating across the life span. Moreover, it aims to provide longitudinal evidence of the psychological mechanisms behind this relationship. METHOD We investigated whether SPA (T1) can predict changes in eating behavior (T3) over 1 year in 1,321 participants (T1), aged 18-92 years. The explanatory role of social-cognitive processes (T1, T2) was tested via a two-step mediation analysis with multigroup modeling for different age and education levels. RESULTS Baseline positive SPA predicted more healthy eating at T3 (b = 0.68, SE = 0.24, p = .01), controlling for baseline eating (T1), age, education, gender, BMI, and illnesses. Self-efficacy (T1) and intention to eat healthily (T2) serially mediated this effect, indirect effect: b = 0.04, p = .02, 95% CI (0.02, 0.08). SPA had stronger effects in older and less educated participants. DISCUSSION This study provides important insights into the mechanisms behind positive SPA fueling successful health behavior change dynamics. Fostering more positive SPA through interventions might be especially important for vulnerable groups. Addressing SPA already in younger ages might help establish health-promoting life-span dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Julia K Wolff
- Institute of Psychogerontology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany.,IGES Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Britta Renner
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Germany
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Brown KE, Kim J, Stewart T, Fulton E, McCarrey AC. Positive, but Not Negative, Self-Perceptions of Aging Predict Cognitive Function Among Older Adults. Int J Aging Hum Dev 2020; 93:543-561. [DOI: 10.1177/0091415020917681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Self-perceptions of aging (SPA) refer to attitudes about one’s aging process and are linked to physical health and longevity. How SPA correlates with cognitive function in older adulthood is less well known. 136 older adults were administered a multifaceted SPA measure, The Brief Ageing Perceptions Questionnaire (B-APQ), in addition to a demographic form and a comprehensive neuropsychological battery. Positive and negative subscales of the B-APQ were correlated with aspects of cognitive function. Regression analyses revealed that only the positive B-APQ subscales predicted mental status ( β = .19, p < .05), short-delay memory ( β = .16, p < .05), processing speed ( β = −.21, p < .05), and two measures of executive function ( β = −.21, p < .01; β = .18, p < .05). This is the first study to demonstrate that positive dimensions of SPA relate to cognitive function in older adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie E. Brown
- Department of Psychology, Idaho State University, Pocatello, USA
| | - Jeehoon Kim
- Department of Social Work, Idaho State University, Pocatello, USA
| | - Tara Stewart
- Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Erika Fulton
- Department of Psychology, Idaho State University, Pocatello, USA
| | - Anna C. McCarrey
- Department of Psychology, Idaho State University, Pocatello, USA
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Abstract
AbstractMass media research on the portrayal of older people has primarily focused on television series and advertisements. News programmes on television have received little attention. We argue that viewers perceive characters on the news as more direct and more accurate representations of social reality than fictional characters, and therefore portrayals on the news are more likely to be integrated in viewers’ stereotypes about elderly people or used as standards of comparison. In order to explore potential differences in the representation of senior men and women, we conducted a quantitative content analysis on a sample of 754 elderly people who appeared on the evening news programmes of four major Hungarian television channels with high viewership. Each character was coded in terms of 115 qualitative variables. Our results indicate that older men are portrayed significantly more often than women as affluent, elegant, knowledgeable, powerful and actively working. By contrast, women are more commonly shown as kind, family-oriented, in ordinary roles (e.g. as the ‘woman in the street’) and engaged in less-productive activities such as shopping. Based on previous research on the role of mass media in the socialisation process as well as social comparison theory, we discuss how these imbalances in the representation of older men and women may affect viewers of different age groups, genders and social status.
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Barber SJ, Hamel K, Ketcham C, Lui K, Taylor-Ketcham N. The effects of stereotype threat on older adults' walking performance as a function of task difficulty and resource evaluations. Psychol Aging 2020; 35:250-266. [PMID: 31971413 PMCID: PMC7543189 DOI: 10.1037/pag0000440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Stereotype threat occurs when people are concerned about confirming a negative stereotype about their social group, and this often leads people to underperform within the threatened domain. Although this is well-documented, the majority of prior studies examining stereotype threat in older adults have focused on cognitive outcomes and comparatively less research has focused on how stereotype threat affects physical outcomes. In this study, we examined whether negative age-based evaluations invoke stereotype threat and adversely affect older adults' gait, and whether this depends upon the difficulty of the gait task and upon participants' evaluations of their own resources to cope with the demands of the gait task. To test this, we recruited 163 healthy, community-dwelling older adults and asked them to complete either an "easy" gait task (i.e., walking at their own comfortable pace) or a "difficult" gait task (i.e., walking within a 15 cm narrow base of support) along a 24' temporospatial-measuring walkway. This was done in either the presence or absence of a negative age-based evaluation. Results showed that the adverse effects of stereotype threat (i.e., walking slower, with relatively more variability in speed, and with more step errors) were generally limited to participants completing the difficult gait task who were not confident that they had sufficient resources to cope with the demands of the task. Thus, stereotype threat can impair older adults' physical performance, but the magnitude of this effect depends upon the task's objective difficulty and on participants' subjective evaluations of their own resources. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
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Chang ES, Kannoth S, Levy S, Wang SY, Lee JE, Levy BR. Global reach of ageism on older persons' health: A systematic review. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0220857. [PMID: 31940338 PMCID: PMC6961830 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0220857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 252] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although there is anecdotal evidence of ageism occurring at both the structural level (in which societal institutions reinforce systematic bias against older persons) and individual level (in which older persons take in the negative views of aging of their culture), previous systematic reviews have not examined how both levels simultaneously influence health. Thus, the impact of ageism may be underestimated. We hypothesized that a comprehensive systematic review would reveal that these ageism levels adversely impact the health of older persons across geography, health outcomes, and time. METHOD A literature search was performed using 14 databases with no restrictions on region, language, and publication type. The systematic search yielded 13,691 papers for screening, 638 for full review, and 422 studies for analyses. Sensitivity analyses that adjusted for sample size and study quality were conducted using standardized tools. The study protocol is registered (PROSPERO CRD42018090857). RESULTS Ageism led to significantly worse health outcomes in 95.5% of the studies and 74.0% of the 1,159 ageism-health associations examined. The studies reported ageism effects in all 45 countries, 11 health domains, and 25 years studied, with the prevalence of significant findings increasing over time (p < .0001). A greater prevalence of significant ageism-health findings was found in less-developed countries than more-developed countries (p = .0002). Older persons who were less educated were particularly likely to experience adverse health effects of ageism. Evidence of ageism was found across the age, sex, and race/ethnicity of the targeters (i.e., persons perpetrating ageism). CONCLUSION The current analysis which included over 7 million participants is the most comprehensive review of health consequences of ageism to date. Considering that the analysis revealed that the detrimental impact of ageism on older persons' health has been occurring simultaneously at the structural and individual level in five continents, our systematic review demonstrates the pernicious reach of ageism.
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Affiliation(s)
- E-Shien Chang
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Sneha Kannoth
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Samantha Levy
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Shi-Yi Wang
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - John E. Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Becca R. Levy
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
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Topal B, Smelt HJ, Van Helden EV, Celik A, Verseveld M, Smeenk F, Pouwels S. Utility of preoperative exercise therapy in reducing postoperative morbidity after surgery; a clinical overview of current evidence. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2019; 17:395-412. [DOI: 10.1080/14779072.2019.1625771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Besir Topal
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Esmee V. Van Helden
- Department of Surgery, Franciscus Gasthuis & Vlietland, Rotterdam/Schiedam, The Netherlands
| | - Alper Celik
- Department of Metabolic Surgery, Metabolic Surgery Clinic, Sisli, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Maria Verseveld
- Department of Surgery, Franciscus Gasthuis & Vlietland, Rotterdam/Schiedam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank Smeenk
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- SHE School of Health Professions Education, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sjaak Pouwels
- Department of Surgery, Franciscus Gasthuis & Vlietland, Rotterdam/Schiedam, The Netherlands
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Mortazavi SS, Shati M, Malakouti SK, Khankeh HR, Mehravaran S, Ahmadi F. Physicians' role in the development of inappropriate polypharmacy among older adults in Iran: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e024128. [PMID: 31122964 PMCID: PMC6538096 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-024128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The use of unnecessary or excessive medications (inappropriate polypharmacy) is a major health challenge among older adults which is driven by several factors. This study aims to provide in-depth descriptions of the physician's role in the development of inappropriate polypharmacy among older adults in Iran. DESIGN Qualitative content analysis of interviews, field notes and other relevant documents available (eg, medical records). Data collection and analyses were done concurrently to guide the sampling process. SETTING Three purposively selected referral hospitals in Tehran, Iran. PARTICIPANTS A total of 7 physicians, 10 older adults, 3 caregivers and 3 pharmacists with a median age of 54 (IQR 23) years were recruited through convenience sampling. RESULTS Emerged categories included misdiagnosis, inappropriate prescribing, insufficient patient education, poor communication, unprofessional behaviour and limited perspectives which highlight the role of physicians in the development of inappropriate polypharmacy among older adults in Iran under the main concept of poor medical practice. CONCLUSION This study provides valuable insight on the role of physicians in the development of inappropriate polypharmacy among the elderly in the healthcare setting in Iran by exploring the viewpoints of physicians, patients, caregivers and pharmacists. Physicians can be an influential factor in tackling this challenge through proper diagnosis, prescription, patient education and follow-up. In Iran, physicians' practice styles are affected by potentially adverse factors such as the novelty of geriatric medicine, lack of a referral system, patient unfamiliarity with the system and lack of a monitoring system for multiple prescriptions. Furthermore, clinics tend to be overcrowded and visit fees can be low; in this setting, lack of physician assistants leads to limited time allocation to each patient and physician dissatisfaction with their income.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyede Salehe Mortazavi
- School of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Shati
- Mental Health Research Center, School of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Kazem Malakouti
- School of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Khankeh
- Department of Nursing, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences (USWR), Tehran, Iran
| | - Shiva Mehravaran
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
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Parker PC, Chipperfield JG, Perry RP, Hamm JM, Hoppmann CA. Attributions for physical activity in very old adults: predicting everyday physical activity and mortality risk. Psychol Health 2018; 34:216-231. [PMID: 30595055 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2018.1523407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although physical activity is recognised as a health-promoting behaviour for older adults, notable barriers exist that may reduce physical activity in this age group. Limited research has explored causal beliefs (attributions) as a barrier to physical activity. Our study assessed associations between older adults' attributions about physical activity and objective health outcomes. METHODS We examined the role of attributions as a predictor of everyday physical activity (EPA) and subsequent mortality risk over a 10-year period (2006-2016) in a sample of older adults (Mage = 87, N = 261). RESULTS OLS and Cox proportional hazard regression analyses revealed older adults who endorsed more internal and uncontrollable attributions for limited activity (physical incapacity) when feeling unwell had lower subsequent EPA (β = -0.18), and higher 10-year mortality risk (HR = 1.46). Other attributions with different dimensional properties (e.g. internal and controllable) were not associated with EPA or mortality. DISCUSSION Findings suggest that causal beliefs older adults have about their physical activity can influence their future behaviour and longevity. Psychological treatments designed to discourage maladaptive attributional thinking for older populations who face barriers to physical activity may be an important avenue for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patti C Parker
- a Department of Psychology , University of Manitoba , Winnipeg , Canada
| | | | - Raymond P Perry
- a Department of Psychology , University of Manitoba , Winnipeg , Canada
| | - Jeremy M Hamm
- b Department of Psychology , Concordia University , Montreal , Canada
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Nilsson G, Ekstam L, Andersson J. Pushing for miracles, pulling away from risk: An ethnographic analysis of the force dynamics at Senior Summer Camps in Sweden. J Aging Stud 2018; 47:96-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaging.2018.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Zhao Y, Fu H, Guo A, Qiu L, Cheung KSL, Wu B, Jopp D, Gu D. A comparison of perceived uselessness between centenarians and non-centenarians in China. BMC Geriatr 2018; 18:251. [PMID: 30348092 PMCID: PMC6196423 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-018-0944-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-perceived uselessness is associated with poorer health in older adults. However, it is unclear whether there is a difference in self-perceived uselessness between centenarians and non-centenarians, and if so, which factors contributed to the difference. METHODS We used four waves of a nationwide longitudinal dataset from 2005 to 2014 in China to investigate these research goals. We first performed multinomial logit regression models to examine the risk of the high or moderate frequency of self-perceived uselessness relative to the low frequency among centenarians (5778 persons) in comparison with non-centenarians aged 65-99 (20,846 persons). We then conducted a cohort analysis for those born in 1906-1913, examining differences in self-perceived uselessness between those centenarians and those died between ages 91 and 99 during 2005-2014. RESULTS Compared to persons aged 65-79, centenarians had 84% (relative risk ratio (RRR) = 1.84, 95% CI:1.69-2.01) and 35% (RRR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.25-1.46) higher risk to have the high frequency and the moderate frequency of feeling useless versus low frequency, respectively, when only demographic factors were controlled for. However, centenarians had 31% (RRR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.54-0.88), 43% (RRR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.49-0.68), and 25% (RRR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.67-0.83) lower risk, respectively, to have the high frequency of self-perceived uselessness relative to the low frequency when a wide set of study covariates were controlled for. In the case of the moderate versus the low frequency of self-perceived uselessness, the corresponding figures were 18% (RRR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.66-1.02), 22% (RRR = 0.78, 95%CI: 0.67-0.90), and 13% (RRR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.79-0.96), respectively. The cohort analysis further indicates that those who became centenarians were 36-39% less likely than those died at ages 91-94 to report the high and the moderate frequencies of self-perceived uselessness versus the low frequency; no difference was found between centenarians and those died at ages 95-99. In both period and cohort analyses, behavioral and health-related factors affected the perception substantially. CONCLUSIONS Overall, centenarians were less likely to perceive themselves as useless compared to non-centenarians of younger birth cohorts when a wide set of covariates were considered and non-centenarians of the same birth cohort. How centenarians manage to do so remains an open question. Our findings may help improve our understanding about the longevity secrets of centenarians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhao
- Ginling College, School of Geographical Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Center for Collaborative Innovation in Geographical Information Resource Development and Application, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong Fu
- School of Psychology, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Aimei Guo
- Ginling College, International Center for Aging Studies, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Qiu
- Independent Researcher, New York, USA
| | | | - Bei Wu
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing and NYU Aging Incubator, New York University, New York, USA
| | - Daniela Jopp
- Department of Psychology and National Centre for Research LIVES, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Danan Gu
- United Nations Population Division, Two UN Plaza, DC2-1910, New York, NY, 10017, USA.
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Chipperfield JG, Perry RP, Pekrun R, Hamm JM, Lang FR. Paradoxical Effects of Perceived Control on Survival. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2018; 73:1166-1174. [PMID: 28204798 PMCID: PMC6146758 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbx002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Appraising health as controllable is typically thought to be adaptive, but recent evidence suggests the paradoxical possibility that perceived control (PC) can be detrimental. We considered the premise that high PC should have a survival benefit when it is part of an adaptive mindset involving high value (importance) for health, but it might be detrimental when it is part of a mindset comprised of low health value (HV). In addition, we examined whether the survival consequences of PC and HV vary with advancing age. Method Interviews were conducted with a heterogeneous sample of community-dwelling adults (n = 341; 72-99 years) to assess appraisals of control and value in the domain of health. Mortality data were obtained over 12 years from a provincial health registry. Results Both age and HV moderated the PC effect on mortality. The predicted beneficial and detrimental PC effects emerged at younger ages: higher PC predicted longer survival times when health was highly valued but shorter survival times when health was less highly valued. Discussion These findings deepen the knowledge regarding the conditions under which PC is or is not adaptive, suggesting the consequences depend on age and the extent to which health is valued.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Reinhard Pekrun
- Department of Psychology, University of Munich, Germany
- Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, Australian Catholic University, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Frieder R Lang
- Institute of Psychogerontology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany
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Vanderzanden K, Ruthig JC. Comparative optimism in older adults' future health expectations. Br J Health Psychol 2018; 23:758-774. [PMID: 29756255 DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Revised: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite a common belief that health declines with age, many older adults remain optimistic about their future health. However, the longitudinal impact of personal and comparatively optimistic future health estimates (FHEs) is unclear. METHOD Among 408 older adults (Mage = 70.32 years), this study identified the prevalence, source, and two-year stability of comparatively optimistic FHEs; examined demographic, psychosocial, and health correlates of comparative FHEs; and assessed the role of comparative FHEs in predicting eight-year survival odds. RESULTS Nearly half of participants were comparatively optimistic due to interpersonal pessimism more so than personal optimism. Regarding stability, comparative optimism declined over the two-year period. Being younger and having more perceived control, dispositional optimism, and recent positive emotions were associated with better FHEs for oneself and a similar other. Beyond effects of age, gender, relationship status, and dispositional optimism, optimistic personal FHEs predicted eight-year survival odds. CONCLUSIONS Findings have implications for predicting survival and advancing the conceptual understanding of comparative FHEs. Statement of contribution What is already known on the subject? Previous research has demonstrated that older adults tend to believe diminished health accompanies increasing age. Despite this notion, older adults remain comparatively optimistic about their health. What does this study add? The longitudinal results of the current study indicated that nearly half of participants were categorized as comparative optimists, primarily due to interpersonal pessimism. The current study demonstrated that there is little distinction between personal FHEs and those for a similar other in terms of demographic, psychosocial, and health correlates. The current study identified factors that predicted eight-year survival among older adults, such as being female, younger, in a committed relationship, and better personal FHEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Vanderzanden
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
| | - Joelle C Ruthig
- Department of Psychology, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA
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Xiang Y, Hao L, Qiu L, Zhao Y, Gu D. Greater financial resources are associated with lower self-perceived uselessness among older adults in China: The urban and rural difference. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2018; 75:171-180. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Wochna Loerzel V. Symptom Self-Management: Strategies Used by Older Adults Receiving Treatment for Cancer. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2018; 22:83-90. [DOI: 10.1188/18.cjon.83-90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Exploring the Facilitators and Barriers to Physical Activity in Older People With Sight Loss. J Aging Phys Act 2018; 26:25-33. [DOI: 10.1123/japa.2016-0123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore facilitators and barriers to physical activity in older people with sight loss. Focus groups were conducted with 13 community-dwelling older adults with sight loss ranging from poor to completely blind. Transcripts were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis. Facilitators and barriers are experienced in three ways: psychologically; through opportunity and access; and at a societal and policy level. Campaigns are needed to challenge unhelpful age-related stereotypes at both psychological and societal levels. Additionally, interventions grounded in evidence and theory should be trialled and evaluated for increasing physical activity in this population.
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Lešnik A, Tomažič J. Starizem v zdravstvenih ustanovah. OBZORNIK ZDRAVSTVENE NEGE 2017. [DOI: 10.14528/snr.2017.51.4.166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Uvod: Starizem izhaja iz predsodkov in stereotipov o lastnostih, ki jih na podlagi kronološke starosti pripisujemo starostnikom. Namen raziskave je bil ugotoviti, ali starostniki v kliničnem okolju doživljajo starizem in v kolikšni meri jih le-ta prizadene. Metode: Opisna kvantitativna raziskava je bila izvedena v zdravstveni ustanovi na priložnostnem vzorcu 132 starostnikov, starih od 65 do 90 let. Uporabljen je bil na podlagi pregleda literature zasnovan vprašalnik z 11 vprašanji zaprtega tipa. Prisotnost starizma in stopnja prizadetosti je bila merjena s tristopenjsko številsko lestvico. Za opis vzorca in sistematičen prikaz odgovorov na raziskovalna vprašanja je bila uporabljena deskriptivna univariatna in bivariatna (hi-kvadrat test za neodvisne vzorce) analiza. Rezultati: Skupno je bilo zaznanih 319 diskriminatornih dogodkov. Od 132 anketiranih je najmanj en diskriminatorni dogodek doživelo 91 (69,0 %) starostnikov. Med slednjimi se je 40 (44,0 %) starostnikov počutilo vsaj enkrat prizadeto in 23 (25,2 %) vsaj enkrat zelo prizadeto. Pri zaznavanju prizadetosti statistično pomembne razlike med skupinami glede na spol (χ2 = 13,554, p = 0,825), izobrazbo (χ2 = 20,807, p = 0,409) in starost (χ2 =19,328, p = 0,501) nismo ugotovili. Diskusija in zaključek: Raziskava potrdi prisotnost starizma v kliničnem okolju. Ker ima starizem negativen vpliv na odnos do starostnika in kakovost njegove oskrbe, je profesionalno komunikacijo s starostniki treba uvesti v izobraževanje vseh profilov zdravstvenih delavcev.
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Veldhuis CB, Talley AE, Hancock DW, Wilsnack SC, Hughes TL. Alcohol Use, Age, and Self-Rated Mental and Physical Health in a Community Sample of Lesbian and Bisexual Women. LGBT Health 2017; 4:419-426. [PMID: 29099308 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2017.0056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Given that self-perceptions of mental and physical health are important predictors of health outcomes and well-being, particularly among older adults, this study focuses on associations among age, alcohol consumption, and indicators of both self-rated mental health and self-rated physical health in a sample of sexual minority women (SMW). METHODS This study uses a community sample of SMW to examine the associations among age, drinking, and self-rated mental and physical health. RESULTS Heavy drinking among older adult SMW (55+) was less prevalent than among young SMW, ages 18-25 and ages 26-39, but similar to rates reported among SMW ages 40-54. In addition, older SMW reported significantly higher levels of self-rated mental health, compared with SMW in the other age groups, but we found no significant associations between age and self-rated physical health. Across all age groups, moderate drinkers reported better self-rated physical health than alcohol abstainers. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these results suggest that, among SMW, drinking does not decline as sharply with age as it does for heterosexual women in the general population. Given the current and projected increases in the aging population and the risks that heavy drinking presents for morbidity and mortality, interventions aimed at older SMW are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy B Veldhuis
- 1 Center for Research on Women and Gender, University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago, Illinois.,2 Department of Health Systems Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago, Illinois.,3 School of Nursing, Columbia University , New York, New York
| | - Amelia E Talley
- 4 Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University , Lubbock, Texas
| | - David W Hancock
- 4 Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University , Lubbock, Texas
| | - Sharon C Wilsnack
- 5 Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, University of North Dakota , Grand Forks, North Dakota
| | - Tonda L Hughes
- 2 Department of Health Systems Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago, Illinois.,3 School of Nursing, Columbia University , New York, New York
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