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Zhang K, Burr JA, Mutchler JE, Lu J. Internet Use and Loneliness Among Urban and Non-Urban Chinese Older Adults: The Roles of Family Support, Friend Support, and Social Participation. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2024; 79:gbae081. [PMID: 38742464 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbae081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study investigated the association between internet use and loneliness among older Chinese adults, and the mediating effects of family support, friend support, and social participation. These associations were evaluated in the context of urban and non-urban geographic settings. METHODS This study used data from the 2018 wave of the China Longitudinal Ageing Social Survey (N = 10,126), examining samples of urban (n = 3,917) and non-urban (n = 6,209) older adults separately. Linear regression and path analysis within a structural equation modeling framework were employed. RESULTS Internet use was negatively associated with loneliness for both urban and non-urban residing older adults. Family support and social participation mediated the association between internet use and loneliness for both urban and non-urban residing older Chinese adults, but friend support mediated this association only for urban older residents. DISCUSSION This study shed light on our understanding of the relationship between internet use and loneliness among older adults in the Chinese context. Also, these findings suggested that digital interventions for loneliness should pay special attention to the different characteristics of urban and non-urban dwelling older Chinese adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunyu Zhang
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Burr
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jan E Mutchler
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jiehua Lu
- Institute for National Strategic Studies on Ageing, Peking University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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2
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Manchella MK, Logan PE, Perry BL, Peng S, Risacher SL, Saykin AJ, Apostolova LG. Associations Between Social Network Characteristics and Brain Structure Among Older Adults. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:1406-1420. [PMID: 38015980 PMCID: PMC10916942 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Social connectedness is associated with slower cognitive decline among older adults. Recent research suggests that distinct aspects of social networks may have differential effects on cognitive resilience, but few studies analyze brain structure. METHODS This study includes 117 cognitively impaired and 59 unimpaired older adults. The effects of social network characteristics (bridging/bonding) on brain regions of interests were analyzed using linear regressions and voxel-wise multiple linear regressions of gray matter density. RESULTS Increased social bridging was associated with greater bilateral amygdala volume and insular thickness, and left frontal lobe thickness, putamen, and thalamic volumes. Increased social bonding was associated with greater bilateral medial orbitofrontal and caudal anterior cingulate thickness, as well as right frontal lobe thickness, putamen, and amygdala volumes. DISCUSSION The associations between social connectedness and brain structure vary depending on the types of social enrichment accessible through social networks, suggesting that psychosocial interventions could mitigate neurodegeneration. HIGHLIGHTS Distinct forms of social capital are uniquely linked to gray matter density (GMD). Bridging is associated with preserved GMD in limbic system structures. Bonding is associated with preserved GMD in frontal lobe regions. Bridging is associated with increased brain reserve in sensory processing regions. Bonding is associated with increased brain reserve in regions of stress modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohit K. Manchella
- Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of NeurologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Paige E. Logan
- Department of NeurologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Brea L. Perry
- Indiana University Network Science InstituteIndiana UniversityBloomingtonIndianaUSA
| | - Siyun Peng
- Indiana University Network Science InstituteIndiana UniversityBloomingtonIndianaUSA
| | - Shannon L. Risacher
- Indiana Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterIndianapolisIndianaUSA
- Center for NeuroimagingDepartment of Radiology and Imaging SciencesIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Andrew J. Saykin
- Department of NeurologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
- Indiana University Network Science InstituteIndiana UniversityBloomingtonIndianaUSA
- Indiana Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterIndianapolisIndianaUSA
- Center for NeuroimagingDepartment of Radiology and Imaging SciencesIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Liana G. Apostolova
- Department of NeurologyIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
- Indiana University Network Science InstituteIndiana UniversityBloomingtonIndianaUSA
- Indiana Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterIndianapolisIndianaUSA
- Center for NeuroimagingDepartment of Radiology and Imaging SciencesIndiana University School of MedicineIndianapolisIndianaUSA
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3
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Ide K, Tsuji T, Kanamori S, Watanabe R, Iizuka G, Kondo K. Frequency of social participation by types and functional decline: A six-year longitudinal study. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2023; 112:105018. [PMID: 37043839 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2023.105018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Social participation is effective for preventing functional decline in older people. However, researchers have not fully explored how different frequencies of social participation by type. We aimed to clarify the relationship between the frequency of social participation by type and functional decline. We used data from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study, which consists of individuals aged 65 years and older who were not eligible to receive public long-term-care insurance benefits. From 13 municipalities, 51,968 respondents who met the criteria were included in the analysis. We used a sex-stratified Cox proportional hazards model. The outcome was the new incidence of functional decline during a six-year follow-up, and the exposure was the frequency of social participation of one of the following six types: sports, hobbies, volunteering, neighborhood, senior clubs, and industry groups. The frequency was categorized as "never," "a few times a year," "once or twice a month," and "once a week or more." We set non-participation in each activity as the reference, and we adjusted for 12 potential confounders (i.e., sociodemographic and health-related factors). After we adjusted for confounders, participation in sports and hobbies once or twice a month, once a week or more was protectively associated with functional decline. We found a similar association for participation in neighborhood a few times a year. Our findings demonstrate the importance of considering the effects of different types and frequencies of activities when promoting social participation among older people as part of public health policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazushige Ide
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Inage-ku, Chiba, Japan; Department of Community General Support, Hasegawa Hospital, Yachimata, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Taishi Tsuji
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Inage-ku, Chiba, Japan; Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoru Kanamori
- Graduate School of Public Health, Teikyo University, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryota Watanabe
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Inage-ku, Chiba, Japan; Center for Gerontology and Social Science, Research Institute, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Aichi, Japan
| | - Gemmei Iizuka
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Inage-ku, Chiba, Japan; Graduate School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Inage-ku, Chiba, Japan; Family Medicine Residency, Seibo International Catholic Hospital, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsunori Kondo
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Inage-ku, Chiba, Japan; Center for Gerontology and Social Science, Research Institute, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Aichi, Japan
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4
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Sugiyama M, Chau HW, Abe T, Kato Y, Jamei E, Veeroja P, Mori K, Sugiyama T. Third Places for Older Adults' Social Engagement: A Scoping Review and Research Agenda. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2023; 63:1149-1161. [PMID: 36512515 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnac180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Neighborhood places that facilitate older residents to meet and interact (third places) receive an increasing research interest as studies have consistently shown the benefits of social engagement for older adults' health. This scoping review synthesized the findings of studies examining the role of third places in older adults' social engagement. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Searching 5 databases (CINAHL, Medline, PsycInfo, Scopus, and Web of Science) in October 2021, this study identified quantitative and qualitative studies that examined the relationships between third places and social engagement (interaction and network) among older adults. RESULTS A total of 32 studies (12 quantitative and 20 qualitative studies) met the eligibility criteria. These studies examined 4 types of third place, namely, community facilities, local businesses, open/green spaces, and transition spaces. More than two thirds of the studies reviewed found that access to community facilities, local businesses, and open/green spaces were related to older adults' social interaction. For the relationships between third places and social networks, the importance of accessible local businesses and the quality of open/green spaces was supported by fewer studies. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS The findings of quantitative and qualitative studies suggest that local places that are convenient to visit and comfortable to stay in for older adults are likely to enhance their social interaction and network. However, more specific evidence is needed to inform the planning and design of third places. The review discusses future research topics that address the gaps identified in the current literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaaki Sugiyama
- Graduate School of Human Life Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hing-Wah Chau
- Institute for Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Takumi Abe
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
- Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yusuke Kato
- College of Human Life and Environment, Kinjo Gakuin University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Elmira Jamei
- Institute for Sustainable Industries and Liveable Cities, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Piret Veeroja
- Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kazuhiko Mori
- Graduate School of Human Life Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takemi Sugiyama
- Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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5
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Son J, Sung P. The Reciprocal Relationship Between Social Engagement and Cognitive Function Among Older Adults in South Korea. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 42:928-941. [PMID: 36583249 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221148953] [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: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
A greater number of studies have examined the impact of social engagement on cognitive function rather than the other way around, leaving their reciprocal association underexplored. Furthermore, formal and informal social engagement are not differentiated, although they may have independent relationships with cognitive function. This study aims to identify (1) whether informal and formal social engagements are effective in maintaining cognitive health and (2) if cognitive function has a bidirectional effect on social engagement. The study applies a dynamic panel data structural equation modeling with a maximum likelihood estimator (ML-SEM) to the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA) data. The results confirm that frequent participation in organizational activities is more robustly associated with cognitive function than memberships or informal social contact. Concerning the bidirectional relationship, the cognitive function increases the degrees of informal and formal engagement. The study thus validates a reciprocal association between social engagement and cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joonmo Son
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, 37580National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Pildoo Sung
- Centre for Ageing Research and Education121579, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
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6
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Webster NJ, Antonucci TC, Ajrouch KJ. Linked lives and convoys of social relations. ADVANCES IN LIFE COURSE RESEARCH 2022; 54:100502. [PMID: 36651615 PMCID: PMC9849781 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcr.2022.100502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
We consider linked lives through the Convoy Model of Social Relations to illustrate their complexity, consequences, and development across contexts. To illustrate how the Convoy Model lens provides a unique opportunity to examine the multidimensional and dynamic character of linked lives across time and space, we analyze twenty-three years of longitudinal data from the Social Relations Study (SRS). The SRS is a regionally representative Detroit-area sample (N=1,498) with three waves (1992; 2005; 2015) of data from community dwelling people age 13 to 93. We present three illustrative examples of linked lives: 1) the influence of earlier life social network characteristics (size and closeness) on later life health outcomes; 2) the influence of social position (race and education) on relationship quality with spouse/partner and child over time; and 3) the influence of transitioning from working to retirement on network structure (size and geographic proximity). Findings illustrate linked lives through multiple instances of social relationships and as influenced by various contexts. Further, the consequences of linked lives for mental health are consistent across the life course while influence on physical health is variable. The Convoy Model presents key concepts to situate the ways in which linked lives form and function at various levels and across multiple contexts to have far reaching effects on life outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah J Webster
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, 426 Thompson Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA.
| | - Toni C Antonucci
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, 426 Thompson Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA; Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, 530 Church St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Kristine J Ajrouch
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, 426 Thompson Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA; Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminology, Eastern Michigan University, 900 Oakwood St, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA.
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7
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Psychological factors substantially contribute to biological aging: evidence from the aging rate in Chinese older adults. Aging (Albany NY) 2022; 14:7206-7222. [PMID: 36170009 PMCID: PMC9550255 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204264] [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: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We have developed a deep learning aging clock using blood test data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, which has a mean absolute error of 5.68 years. We used the aging clock to demonstrate the connection between the physical and psychological aspects of aging. The clock detects accelerated aging in people with heart, liver, and lung conditions. We demonstrate that psychological factors, such as feeling unhappy or being lonely, add up to 1.65 years to one’s biological age, and the aggregate effect exceeds the effects of biological sex, living area, marital status, and smoking status. We conclude that the psychological component should not be ignored in aging studies due to its significant impact on biological age.
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8
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Huang Y, Zhu X, Liu X, Li J. The effects of loneliness, social isolation, and associated gender differences on the risk of developing cognitive impairment for Chinese oldest old. Aging Ment Health 2022:1-8. [PMID: 36065623 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2022.2116396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate whether loneliness and social isolation could independently predict subsequent risk of cognitive impairment in Chinese oldest old, and to examine possible gender differences. METHODS The sample included 2,732 older adults aged 80 years and above with intact cognitive function from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey 2002-2018 waves, with an average follow-up of 4.24 years. Loneliness was measured by a single-item question about how often the participant felt lonely. Social isolation was defined by marital status, frequent visits by family members, and social activity engagement. Cognitive impairment was defined based on Mini-Mental State Examination scores. RESULTS Cox regression showed that social isolation independently predicted a higher risk of developing cognitive impairment at follow-up (HR = 1.14, 95% CI [1.03, 1.27], p = 0.014). Importantly, although there was no main effect of loneliness, a significant interaction between gender and loneliness (p = 0.013) suggested that increased loneliness was associated with a higher risk of developing cognitive impairment for men but not for women. CONCLUSION To prevent cognitive impairment and promote healthy longevity, socially isolated adults in their oldest old age should receive more attention, and men who often feel lonely should be offered with more emotional support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Huang
- Center on Aging Psychology, CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyi Zhu
- Center on Aging Psychology, CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaomei Liu
- Center on Aging Psychology, CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Li
- Center on Aging Psychology, CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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9
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Zhou T, Zhang X, Fan S, Deng Z, Jiao C. The Impact of Early Neighborhood Cohesion, and Its Mechanism, on Cognitive Function in Later Life. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:848911. [PMID: 35573370 PMCID: PMC9091595 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.848911] [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: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study aimed to explore the impact of early neighborhood cohesion, and its mechanism, on cognitive function in later life. Methods In total, 10,727 Chinese elderly, aged 60-90, forming two datasets (2014 and 2018) from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) were used as a sample. Childhood neighborhood cohesion was measured by the extent of how much neighbors were willing to help and how close-knit neighbors were. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10) were used to assess the cognitive functions and depression of the elderly. We used a structural equation model to examine the relationship between early neighborhood cohesion and late-life cognitive function and conducted bootstrapping analyses to assess the mechanism. Results Cognitive function was positively predicted by childhood neighborhood cohesion (β = 0.06, p < 0.001), and cognitive function of the elderly were also positively predicted through the mediating effects of childhood friendships, which included depression and social activity participation as two chain paths. Conclusion The findings suggest that childhood neighborhood cohesion positively predicts cognitive function among elderly people through the mediating roles of childhood friendship, depression, and social activity engagement. Childhood neighborhood cohesion is correlated with better childhood friendships, then to fewer depression symptoms and greater elderly social activity participation, and finally to better cognitive functions in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zhou
- School of Psychology Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoyi Zhang
- School of Psychology Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuming Fan
- Faculty of Education, Department of Educational Psychology, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zeming Deng
- School of Psychology Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Can Jiao
- School of Psychology Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- The Shenzhen Humanities & Social Sciences Key Research Bases of the Center for Mental Health, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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10
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Peng S, Roth AR, Apostolova LG, Saykin AJ, Perry BL. Cognitively stimulating environments and cognitive reserve: the case of personal social networks. Neurobiol Aging 2022; 112:197-203. [PMID: 35231846 PMCID: PMC9019994 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cognitively stimulating environments are thought to be protective of cognitive decline and onset of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) through the development of cognitive reserve (CR). CR refers to cognitive adaptability that buffers the impact of brain pathology on cognitive function. Despite the critical need to identify cognitively stimulating environments to build CR, there is no consensus regarding which environmental determinants are most effective. Rather, most studies use education as proxies for CR and little is known about the association between older adults' personal social networks and CR. Using neuroimaging data from 135 older adults participating in the Social Networks in Alzheimer Disease (SNAD) study, this article adopted a residual method for measuring CR and found that large network size, high network diversity, and loosely connected networks were positively associated with greater CR. These results suggest that expansive social networks in later life may constitute cognitively stimulating environments which can be leveraged to build CR and reduce the burden of ADRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyun Peng
- Department of Sociology & Network Science Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA.
| | - Adam R Roth
- Department of Sociology & Network Science Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | | | - Andrew J Saykin
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences & Indiana Alzheimer Disease Center, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Brea L Perry
- Department of Sociology & Network Science Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
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11
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Huxhold O, Fiori KL, Windsor T. Rethinking Social Relationships in Adulthood: The Differential Investment of Resources Model. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY REVIEW 2022; 26:57-82. [PMID: 35001730 PMCID: PMC8978474 DOI: 10.1177/10888683211067035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Empirical evidence about the development of social relationships across
adulthood into late life continues to accumulate, but theoretical
development has lagged behind. The Differential Investment of
Resources (DIRe) model integrates these empirical advances. The model
defines the investment of time and energy into social ties varying in
terms of emotional closeness and kinship as the core mechanism
explaining the formation and maintenance of social networks.
Individual characteristics, acting as capacities, motivations, and
skills, determine the amount, direction, and efficacy of the
investment. The context (e.g., the living situation) affects the
social opportunity structure, the amount of time and energy available,
and individual characteristics. Finally, the model describes two
feedback loops: (a) social capital affecting the individual’s living
situation and (b) different types of ties impacting individual
characteristics via social exchanges, social influences, and social
evaluations. The proposed model will provide a theoretical basis for
future research and hypothesis testing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tim Windsor
- Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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12
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Liu S, Wang F, Zhang C, Zhang Q, Dang ZC, Ng CH, Xiang YT. Cognitive Impairment and Its Associated Factors in Older Adults Living in High and Low Altitude Areas: A Comparative Study. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:871414. [PMID: 35815014 PMCID: PMC9259941 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.871414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive impairment is a major health concern in older adults. Few studies have examined the association between environmental factors and cognitive impairment, especially in high altitude areas. In this study, the prevalence of cognitive impairment in older adults living in high altitude was compared with those living in low altitude areas. METHODS This was a comparative study conducted at Qinghai (high altitude group), and Guangzhou (low altitude group), China. Cognition, depressive symptoms and quality of life (QOL) were assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and WHO Quality of Life brief version-WHOQOL-BREF, respectively. RESULTS Altogether, 644 older adults (207 in Qinghai and 437 in Guangzhou) completed the assessment. The prevalence rate of cognitive impairment was 94.7% (95% CI: 91.6-97.7%) in older adults living in the high altitude area, while the corresponding figure was 89.2% (95% CI: 86.3-92.1%) in the low altitude area. After controlling for covariates, the high altitude group appeared more likely to have cognitive impairment (OR = 2.92, 95% CI: 1.23-6.91, P = 0.015) compared with the low altitude group. Within the high altitude group sample, multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed that older age (aged 74 and above) was significantly associated with higher risk of severe cognitive impairment (OR = 3.58, 95%CI: 1.44-8.93, P = 0.006), while higher education level (secondary school and above) was associated with decreased risk of moderate cognitive impairment (OR = 0.43, 95%CI: 0.22-0.85, P = 0.006). Within the high altitude group, QOL did not differ significantly between normal/mild, moderate and severe cognitive impairment subgroups across physical [F (1, 207) = 1.83, P = 0.163], psychological [F (1, 207) = 1.50, P = 0.225], social [F (1,207) = 2.22, P = 0.111] and environmental domains [F (1,207) = 0.49, P = 0.614]. CONCLUSION This study found that cognitive impairment was more common among older adults living in the high altitude area. Regular screening and appropriate interventions should be provided to older adults in need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shou Liu
- Department of Public Health, Medical College, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Mental Health Center, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Yong Ding lu Outpatient, Jingnan Medical Area, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qinge Zhang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital and The Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhan-Cui Dang
- Department of Public Health, Medical College, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Chee H Ng
- Department of Psychiatry, The Melbourne Clinic and St Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Richmond, VIC, Australia
| | - Yu-Tao Xiang
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.,Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.,Institute of Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
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13
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Kauppi M, Virtanen M, Pentti J, Aalto V, Kivimäki M, Vahtera J, Stenholm S. Social network ties before and after retirement: a cohort study. Eur J Ageing 2021; 18:503-512. [PMID: 34786012 PMCID: PMC8563893 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-021-00604-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Social networks are associated with individual's health and well-being. Working life offers opportunities to create and maintain social networks, while retirement may change these networks. This study examined how the number of ties in social network changes across the retirement transition. The study population consisted of 2319 participants (84% women, mean age 63.2 years) from the Finnish Retirement and Aging study. Information about social network ties, including the number of ties in the inner, middle and outer circles of the social convoy model, was gathered using annual postal surveys before and after retirement. Three repeat surveys per participant covered the retirement transition and the post-retirement periods. Mean number of network ties was 21.6 before retirement, of which 5.6 were situated in the inner, 6.9 in the middle and 9.1 in the outer circle. The number of ties in the outer circle decreased by 0.67 (95% CI - 0.92, - 0.42) during the retirement transition period, but not during the post-retirement period (0.11, 95% CI - 0.33, 0.12) (interaction period * time, p = 0.006). The pattern of change in these ties did not differ by gender, occupational status, marital status, number of chronic diseases and mental health during the retirement transition period. The number of ties in the inner and middle circles overall did not decrease during these periods. The number of peripheral relationships decreased during the retirement transition but not after that, suggesting that the observed reduction is more likely to be associated with retirement rather than aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Kauppi
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Turku and Helsinki, Finland
| | - M. Virtanen
- School of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Eastern Finland, Joensuu, Finland
| | - J. Pentti
- Clinicum, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Public Health, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - V. Aalto
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Turku and Helsinki, Finland
| | - M. Kivimäki
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Turku and Helsinki, Finland
- Clinicum, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London Medical School, London, UK
| | - J. Vahtera
- Department of Public Health, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - S. Stenholm
- Department of Public Health, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
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Peng S, Roth AR, Perry BL. A latent variable approach to measuring bridging social capital and examining its association to older adults' cognitive health. Soc Neurosci 2021; 16:684-694. [PMID: 34727017 DOI: 10.1080/17470919.2021.2001368] [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: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Access to cognitive stimulation through social interactions is a key mechanism used to explain the association between personal networks, cognitive health, and brain structure in older adults. However, little research has assessed how best to operationalize access to novel or diverse social stimuli using social network measures, many of which were designed to study information diffusion within large whole networks (e.g., structural holes and bridging social capital). Using data from 277 adults in the Social Networks and Alzheimer Disease (SNAD) study, we aimed to evaluate such measures for use in research on cognitive aging using personal social networks. We found a positive association between individual measures of structural holes and cognitive health, but not with brain structure. Further, we extracted a latent measure of bridging social capital using multiple individual measures (i.e., structural holes, network diversity, weak ties, and network size) and found it was significantly associated with cognitive health and brain structure, supporting the utility of this concept and related measures in the study of cognitive aging. Finally, individual measures may underestimate the effects of multidimensional bridging social capital on cognitive health and brain structure compared to a latent measure that combines them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyun Peng
- Department of Sociology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Adam R Roth
- Department of Sociology & Network Science Institute, Indiana University
| | - Brea L Perry
- Department of Sociology & Network Science Institute, Indiana University
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15
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Small ML. On Mobilization. PERSONAL NETWORKS 2021:573-595. [DOI: 10.1017/9781108878296.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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16
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Perry BL, McConnell WR, Coleman ME, Roth AR, Peng S, Apostolova LG. Why the cognitive "fountain of youth" may be upstream: Pathways to dementia risk and resilience through social connectedness. Alzheimers Dement 2021; 18:934-941. [PMID: 34482619 PMCID: PMC8897512 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Research suggests social connectedness may help older adults with dementia maintain cognitive functionality and quality of life. However, little is known about its specific social and biological mechanisms. This paper proposes two pathways through social bridging (i.e., cognitive enrichment through expansive social networks) and bonding (i.e., neuroendocrine benefits of integration in cohesive social networks). We provide preliminary evidence for these pathways using neuroimaging, cognitive, and egocentric social network data from the Social Networks and Alzheimer's Disease (SNAD) study (N = 280). We found that network size, density, and presence of weak ties (i.e., social bridging) moderated the association between brain atrophy and cognitive function, while marriage/cohabitation (i.e., social bonding) moderated the association between perceived stress and cognitive function. We argue that social connectedness may have downstream implications for multiple pathophysiological processes in cognitive aging, even negating existing structural damage to the brain, making it a strong candidate for clinical or policy intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brea L Perry
- Department of Sociology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Will R McConnell
- Department of Sociology, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida, USA
| | - Max E Coleman
- Department of Sociology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Adam R Roth
- Department of Sociology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Siyun Peng
- Department of Sociology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Liana G Apostolova
- Departments of Neurology, Radiology and Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IU Health Neuroscience Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES One's personal social network constitutes a contextual framing factor for late-life cognitive function. This study examined the association between network type at baseline and changes in three cognitive measures: immediate recall, delayed recall, and fluency, two years hence, among Europeans aged 50 and older. PARTICIPANTS Data were taken from Waves four and five of the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe of adults aged 50 and above (N = 50,071). MEASUREMENTS The latent class analysis was applied to a set of criterion variables. The procedure yielded five distinct network types: multi-tie (6%), family-rich (23%), close-family (49%), family-poor (12%), and friend-enhanced (10%). The network types were then regressed on the cognition measures at follow-up, controlling for the respective baseline cognition scores, as well as for age, gender, education, self-rated health, mobility difficulty, and country. RESULTS Respondents in family-poor network types had poorer cognition scores at follow-up, compared to those in the modal close-family network, while those in multi-tie networks had consistently better scores. The family-rich network and the friend-enhanced network also had a somewhat better cognitive function. CONCLUSIONS Having varied sources of network ties, e.g. friendship ties and/or several types of family relationships, is beneficial to the cognitive health of older adults over time. Networks based mainly on ties with relatives other than spouse and children, on the other hand, have poorer cognitive outcomes. Older people in this latter group face an increased risk for cognitive decline and should receive assistance in enhancing their interpersonal environments.
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Li B, Bi J, Wei C, Sha F. Specific Activities and the Trajectories of Cognitive Decline Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Five-Year Longitudinal Cohort Study. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 80:1039-1050. [PMID: 33646157 DOI: 10.3233/jad-201268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND How specific activities influence cognitive decline among different age groups, especially the late middle-aged and the early old, remains inadequately studied. OBJECTIVE To examine the association between specific activities with trajectories of cognitive functions in different age groups in China. METHODS A longitudinal cohort study was conducted based on data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Mixed effects growth models were applied to analyze the association between specific activities and cognitive functions. RESULTS Interacting with friends (infrequent: β= 0.13, confidence interval [CI] = 0.03 to 0.22; daily: β= 0.19, CI = 0.09 to 0.28), playing Mah-jong or other games (infrequent: β= 0.12, CI = 0.02 to 0.22; daily:β= 0.26, CI = 0.10 to 0.42), infrequent providing help to others (β= 0.24, CI = 0.11 to 0.37), and going to a sport (infrequent: β= 0.31, CI = 0.08 to 0.54); daily: β= 0.22, CI = 0.05 to 0.38) are significantly associated with participants' memory. Infrequently playing Mah-jong or other games (β= 0.30, CI = 0.17 to 0.43) and daily sports (β= 0.24, CI = 0.03 to 0.45) are significantly associated with better mental status. Effect of each activity varies among population of different age, education level, gender, and residence. CONCLUSION This study identifies four social activities that are associated with better cognitive functions, and provides a comprehensive, in-depth understanding on the specific protective effect of each activity among different subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingyu Li
- Department of Sociology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiefeng Bi
- Centre for Biomedical Information Technology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Chang Wei
- Centre for Biomedical Information Technology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Feng Sha
- Centre for Biomedical Information Technology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
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Chen Y, Ma CN, Luo L, Yin J, Gao Z, Yu Z, Wan Z. The cross-sectional association between mean corpuscular volume level and cognitive function in Chinese over 45 years old: Evidence from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0243227. [PMID: 33270788 PMCID: PMC7714155 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0243227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fewer studies have focused on the independent association between mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and cognitive performance. This study was designed to characterize the cross-sectional association between MCV and cognitive performance in a large sample of Chinese residents (age≥45 years) from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). A total of 4023 male and 4173 female adults with MCV ≥ 80 fl were included for analysis. By multivariable linear regression analysis, for the total subjects, MCV level was significantly negatively associated with global cognitive function and episodic memory. When adjusted by sex, only in male subjects, higher MCV level was associated with reduced scores for global cognitive function, episodic memory and mental status. Via binary logistic regression analysis, the higher MCV level (MCV>100 fl) was associated with poor global cognitive function (OR = 1.601; 95% CI = 1.198–2.139; p = 0.001), episodic memory (OR = 1.679; 95% CI = 1.281–2.201; p<0.001), and mental status (OR = 1.422; 95% CI = 1.032–1.959; p = 0.031) for the whole participants. When testing this association by sex, the significant relationship between higher MCV level with worse episodic memory was observed both in male (OR = 1.690; 95% CI = 1.211–2.358; p = 0.002) and female (OR = 1.729; 95% CI = 1.079–2.770; p = 0.023) subjects; while the association between higher MCV level and poor global cognitive function (OR = 1.885; 95% CI = 1.329, 2.675; p<0.001) and mental status (OR = 1.544; 95% CI = 1.034, 2.306; p = 0.034) only existed in male subjects. Further studies are warranted to clarify the association between MCV level and cognitive performance by considering sex into consideration both cross-sectionally and longitudinally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Chen
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Chen’Xi’ Nan Ma
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lan Luo
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jieyun Yin
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhan Gao
- The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zengli Yu
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- * E-mail: (ZW); (ZY)
| | - Zhongxiao Wan
- College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- * E-mail: (ZW); (ZY)
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20
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Zhou S, Song S, Jin Y, Zheng ZJ. Prospective association between social engagement and cognitive impairment among middle-aged and older adults: evidence from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e040936. [PMID: 33208332 PMCID: PMC7677353 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-040936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cognitive impairment is a precursor of dementia. This study aimed to examine the association of social engagement with cognitive decline during the process of normal ageing. METHODS We used data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. The cognitive functions were tested at baseline, and 2-year and 4-year follow-up visits. Social engagement was constructed as a comprehensive measure including the quantity and frequency of social activities. Activities of social engagement were classified into three types. Multilevel logistic model was fitted to evaluate the prospective association between social engagement and cognitive impairment. RESULTS After 2-year follow-up, compared with participants with the lowest level of social engagement, those with level-2, level-3 and level-4 social engagement had a 12% (OR=0.88, 95% CI 0.71 to 1.09, p=0.242), 17% (OR=0.83, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.97, p=0.020) and 25% (OR=0.75, 95% CI 0.61 to 0.93, p=0.008) lower risk for developing cognitive impairment, respectively. A similar pattern of significantly protective association was found at 4-year follow-up. Combined effect analysis showed that participants who attended one type of social engagement had a lower risk of developing cognitive impairment and the protective effect was even larger with those who attended two or three types of social engagement. CONCLUSIONS Social engagement had a protective effect on cognitive impairment among middle-aged and older adults in China. Given the growing epidemic of dementia and rapid pace of ageing in low-income and middle-income countries, our study shed lights on comprehensive and tailored public health programmes for improving social engagement, to delay cognitive impairment at mid-age and later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuduo Zhou
- Department of Global Health, Peking University Health Science Centre, Beijing, China
- Institute for Global Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Suhang Song
- China Center for Health Development Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yinzi Jin
- Department of Global Health, Peking University Health Science Centre, Beijing, China
- Institute for Global Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-Jie Zheng
- Department of Global Health, Peking University Health Science Centre, Beijing, China
- Institute for Global Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
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21
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Chan SCY, Au AML, Lai SMK. The detrimental impacts of negative age stereotypes on the episodic memory of older adults: does social participation moderate the effects? BMC Geriatr 2020; 20:452. [PMID: 33153433 PMCID: PMC7643323 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-020-01833-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Older adults’ cognitive abilities can be impaired through priming of negative age stereotypes. However, it is unclear whether the effects of negative priming can be extended to episodic memory, which is believed to be the most age-sensitive type among the long-term memory systems, in Asian populations. Social participation has recently emerged as a potential protective factor for maintaining the cognitive function of older adults. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of negative age stereotype priming on episodic memory and the moderating role of social participation in the priming effect. Methods A total of 105 community-dwelling older adults residing in Hong Kong were randomly allocated to two experimental conditions. Participants were primed either with negative age stereotype words (n = 53) or neutral words (n = 52) using an implicit priming task. Episodic memory performance was assessed using the Hong Kong List Learning Task (HKLLT), which includes total learning, two delayed recalls and a recognition task. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to assess group differences in the priming task and memory performance, while a series of moderation analyses were performed to examine the moderating effects of social participation. Results The group that received negative age stereotype priming performed significantly worse than the group that received neutral words in their episodic memory test. Additional analyses showed that socially active individuals might be less prone to the effects of negative age stereotypes for the recognition task only. Conclusions Older adults who are more socially active might be more immune to the effects of negative age stereotype priming on episodic memory. These results provide initial support for the hypothesis that social participation might act as an effective strategy to ward against negative age stereotype priming. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04202120 (first posted December 17, 2019), (Retrospectively registered). Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-020-01833-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen C Y Chan
- The Open University of Hong Kong, Good Shepherd Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong. .,The Public and Social Policy Research Centre of The Open University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
| | - Alma M L Au
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Simon M K Lai
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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22
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Ying G, Vonk JMJ, Sol K, Brickman AM, Manly JJ, Zahodne LB. Family Ties and Aging in a Multiethnic Cohort. J Aging Health 2020; 32:1464-1474. [PMID: 32600080 DOI: 10.1177/0898264320935238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Lack of social support is linked to lower cognitive function and cognitive decline. We investigated the effects of a specific type of social relationship, family ties, on cognitive trajectories in non-Hispanic whites, non-Hispanic blacks, and Hispanics. Methods: Using multiple-group latent growth curve models, we analyzed associations between the number of children/grandchildren/siblings/other relatives contacted within the past month at baseline and cognitive trajectories in 1420 older adults who were nondemented at baseline. Language, memory, and visuospatial abilities were assessed at baseline and at 18- and 24-month follow-ups for up to six visits. Inferential analyses assessed the differential effects of sex/gender and race/ethnicity for each family tie. Results: Independent of all covariates, contact with more relatives was associated with better initial memory (b = .01) and language functioning (b = .01) across race/ethnicity and sex/gender. Conclusion: The size of peripheral rather than immediate family networks may be more likely to affect cognitive function in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gelan Ying
- 171553Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jet M J Vonk
- 171553Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.,168086Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Adam M Brickman
- 171553Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer J Manly
- 171553Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Fuller HR, Ajrouch KJ, Antonucci TC. The Convoy Model and Later-Life Family Relationships. JOURNAL OF FAMILY THEORY & REVIEW 2020; 12:126-146. [PMID: 32536976 PMCID: PMC7283809 DOI: 10.1111/jftr.12376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The convoy model of social relations was developed to provide a heuristic framework for conceptualizing and understanding social relationships. In this Original Voices article, we begin with an overview of the theoretical tenets of the convoy model, including its value in addressing situational and contextual influences, especially variability in family forms and cultural diversity across the life span, but particularly in older adulthood. We also consider the contributions of the convoy model to the field of family gerontology by illustrating concepts, methods, and measures used to test the model, as well as its usefulness and limitations in addressing contemporary issues facing older adults. Finally, we discuss opportunities for innovation and application of the convoy model to the study of later-life family relationships. In summary, we emphasize the benefits and inclusiveness of the convoy model for guiding current and future research to address challenges facing family gerontology now and in the future.
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