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Haghighi P, Littler EAL, Mauer-Vakil D, Miller M, Oremus M. Exploring the relationship between marital quality and cognitive function: A systematic review. Soc Sci Med 2024; 355:117120. [PMID: 39019001 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.117120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Cognitive function is an important indicator of healthy aging as it is central to maintaining functional independence, performing job-related tasks, decision-making, and improving quality of life. Therefore, researchers seek to identify biopsychosocial factors that can help preserve cognitive function in aging individuals. One such factor is the maintenance of good quality marital relationships. Research has consistently shown that married individuals fare better in terms of both physical and psychological health compared to their unmarried counterparts. However, being married is not universally beneficial - the quality of a marriage is also important to consider. To explore the issue further, we conducted a systematic review to examine the association between marital quality and cognitive function. PubMed, PsycINFO, and Scopus were searched for eligible articles examining any measure of marital quality and any cognitive outcome from the inception of each database to January 9th, 2024. Following two levels of citation screening by two independent reviewers, we included 15 articles representing 11 unique studies. Data were synthesized narratively following the Synthesis without Meta-Analysis guidelines and a risk of bias assessment was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Most articles had a low risk of bias. Although some findings suggested more positive marital quality was associated with improved cognitive function, the results were not uniformly positive; some results were inverse or null, depending upon factors such as differences in study designs and measures of marital quality or cognition. This review is the first attempt to synthesize the literature on this topic. Our findings highlight that any examination of marital status and cognition should also consider contextual factors such as marital quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paniz Haghighi
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emma A L Littler
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dane Mauer-Vakil
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michaella Miller
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark Oremus
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
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Williams-Farrelly MM, Ferraro KF. Early Origins of Frailty: Do Later-Life Social Relationships Alter Trajectories of Decline? J Aging Health 2024; 36:275-285. [PMID: 37358912 PMCID: PMC10749989 DOI: 10.1177/08982643231185426] [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] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Social relationships are widely regarded as salubrious, but do they mediate the influence of childhood experiences on frailty in later life? Drawing from cumulative inequality theory, we assess the influence of childhood experiences and adult relationships on frailty trajectories. Methods: We analyzed data from the Health and Retirement Study to examine the influence of six domains of childhood experiences and social relationships on frailty trajectories over 8 years. Mediation analyses were completed with structural equation models. Results: Risky adolescent behavior, chronic disease, and impairments during childhood are associated directly with higher risk of initial frailty, but not over time. More social roles and higher social support mediate the relationship between childhood experiences and frailty, and the effect of more social roles continues over time. Discussion: This study provides compelling evidence that supportive social relationships mediate the risk and severity of frailty in later life associated with noxious childhood experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica M. Williams-Farrelly
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Regenstrief Institute, Inc., Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Kenneth F. Ferraro
- Department of Sociology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Center on Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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Su F, Chao J, Zhang B, Zhang N, Luo Z, Han J. Couples' Cognition, Intimacy, and Activity Engagement: An Actor-Partner Interdependence Model Analysis. Clin Gerontol 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37888884 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2023.2274524] [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: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examines the actor and partner effects of cognition on activity engagement and the potential mediating role of intimate relationship in older couple dyadic context. METHODS Data for this study were obtained from heterosexual couples who participated in the 2020 wave of the Health and Retirement Study. Constructing a dyadic model of couples' cognitions, activity engagement, and intimacy using structural equation modeling to analyze the relationship between variables and mediating effects. RESULTS At the actor level, cognition was positively correlated with their activity participation. At the partner level, wives' cognition and husbands' activity engagement were positively correlated. Husband's cognitive score affect wife's subjective feelings about intimacy. The mediation effect of Wife's intimacy on the relationship between husband's cognition and wife's activity engagement was significant. CONCLUSIONS In older couples, cognition influences activity engagement at a binary level, and this association is influenced by the level of intimacy. Improving intimacy can help increase activity engagement in older couples, which in turn promotes health. Clinical Implications Maintaining cognition helps older people enjoy good marriage and participation in activities. For women, the closer the partnership, the higher the frequency of participating in various activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Su
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianqian Chao
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medical Insurance, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bowen Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Na Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zongyu Luo
- Department of Medical Insurance, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiaying Han
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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Ma W, Wu B, Yu Y, Zhong R. Longitudinal associations between social relationships and cognitive function among Chinese older adults: The mediating role of healthy lifestyles. Geriatr Nurs 2023; 53:102-108. [PMID: 37478806 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.06.016] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to explore whether social relationships and cognitive function were reciprocally related and whether healthy lifestyles mediate their association. METHODS This study included 3372 Chinese adults from the years 2014-2018 wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. RESULTS Baseline social relationships were negatively associated with a change in cognitive function (β = -0.030, p = 0.043). Participants with a 1 standard deviation (SD) increase in social relationships had an approximately 6% reduced risk of developing cognitive impairment. However, baseline cognitive function did not independently predict social relationships. The association between △social relationships and △cognitive function was partially mediated by △a healthy lifestyle (B = 0.025, 95% CI = 0.013-0.041). CONCLUSIONS The association between social relationships and cognitive function may be unidirectional. Policies that promote cognitive function based on social relationships would benefit by taking into account lifestyle factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weibo Ma
- School of Public Administration, Faculty of Economics and Management, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bei Wu
- NYU Aging Incubator and Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing, New York, USA
| | - Ying Yu
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Renyao Zhong
- School of Public Administration, Faculty of Economics and Management, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.
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Min JY, Kim B, Min KB. The Associations between Cognitive Function, Depressive Symptoms, and Contact with Adult Children in Older Couples. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5431. [PMID: 37629471 PMCID: PMC10455187 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12165431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the association between cognitive function and depressive symptoms in older couples while also examining the relationship between cognitive performance and the frequency of contact with adult children. A total of 96 couples volunteered for this study and provided their informed consent at enrollment. Participants completed a neuropsychological test battery consisting of five cognitive domains: attention, language and related functions, visuospatial functions, memory, and frontal/executive functions. Symptoms of depression were assessed using the short version of the Geriatric Depression Scale. The number of contacts with children was categorized into ≥1 per month and <1 per month. We found that the cognitive functions of husbands with depressed wives were significantly lower in the frontal/executive functions. In contrast, the wives' cognitive performance was not associated with the husbands' depressive symptoms. For couples who had contact with their adult children less than once a month, the odds of the husbands with lower cognitive performance were significantly higher, which was reflected in their scores in visuospatial and executive functions. Among older married couples, the cognitive functions of husbands may be influenced more by their wives' mental health and degree of contact with their adult children. This infers that wives and offspring may act as a buffer against the cognitive impairment of older married men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-young Min
- Veterans Medical Research Institute, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea;
| | - Beom Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Seoul 05368, Republic of Korea;
| | - Kyoung-bok Min
- Institute of Health Policy and Management, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
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Borella E, Ghisletta P, Carbone E, Aichele S. The Current and Retrospective Cognitive Reserve (2CR) survey and its relationship with cognitive and mood measures. Eur J Ageing 2023; 20:23. [PMID: 37314565 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-023-00766-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognitive Reserve (CR) is often assessed with surveys spanning demographic, lifestyle, and socio-behavioral variables. The role of both past and current life experiences on CR has, however, rarely been examined. We developed the Current and Retrospective Cognitive Reserve (2CR) survey to assess classical CR proxies (socio-economic status, engagement in leisure and social activities) and other dimensions of potential importance (family engagement, religious/spiritual activity) both currently (CRc; in later adulthood) and retrospectively (CRr; as recalled from younger adulthood). We administered the 2CR, measures of general cognitive functioning, working memory (WM), crystallized-vocabulary- and fluid-reasoning-intelligence, and depressive symptoms (DS) to 235 community-dwelling Italian adults (ages 55-90 years). We used exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to examine the 2CR latent structure, and we estimated correlations of its dimensions with cognitive abilities and DS. Analyses confirmed a three-level factor structure with two global CR factors (CRc and CRr) at the top level, dimensional CR factors (socio-economic status, family engagement, leisure activity, social engagement, and religious/spiritual activity) at mid-level and observed items at the lowest level. Item-factor representations partially differed across CRc and CRr. Both CRc and CRr were positively correlated with measures of intelligence, WM and DS, but associations of measures of intelligence were stronger for CRr, whereas associations of WM and DS were slightly stronger for CRc. The 2CR can be considered a reliable survey for assessing CR proxies within a multidimensional, "life stage-dependent" framework insofar as CRc are CRr closely related but also differently associated with intelligence, WM, and DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Borella
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
| | - Paolo Ghisletta
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- UniDistance Suisse, Sierre, Switzerland
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Elena Carbone
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Stephen Aichele
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health, Fort Collins, CO, USA.
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Jennings EA, Farrell M, Liu Y, Montana L. Associations between cognitive function and marital status in the U.S., South Africa, Mexico, and China. SSM Popul Health 2022; 20:101288. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2022.101288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Alonso-Perez E, Gellert P, Kreyenfeld M, O’Sullivan JL. Family Structure and Family Climate in Relation to Health and Socioeconomic Status for Older Adults: A Longitudinal Moderated Mediation Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11840. [PMID: 36142113 PMCID: PMC9517513 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Family characteristics are associated with individuals' health and wellbeing. However, the link between family structure (e.g., operationalized via marital status) and health outcomes is ambiguous, and whether family climate mediates the relationship is unclear. This study uses the Biobehavioral Family Model (BBFM) to investigate the association of older adults' family structure with later health, the mediating role of family climate and mental health and how these links vary by socioeconomic status (SES). Using data from n = 29,457 respondents aged over 50 in Waves 4, 5 and 6 (2011, 2013 and 2015) of the Survey of Health, Retirement and Ageing in Europe (SHARE), the BBFM was applied in a longitudinal mediation analysis of family structure and health, including both indicators of mental and physical health. Structural equation modeling was applied, and a multigroup analysis was performed to test the role of SES in a moderated mediation. Family climate and mental health mediated the relationship between family structure and subsequent physical health. Good levels of family climate were found to be consistently associated with improved mental and physical health. These relationships were significantly moderated by SES, showing that the association of family climate and health was weaker for those in low SES positions. Family climate and mental health should be considered as potential mechanisms linking family structure to later physical health outcomes across time; however, these associations are diminished for those with low SES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Alonso-Perez
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute for Medical Sociology and Rehabilitation Science, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Paul Gellert
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute for Medical Sociology and Rehabilitation Science, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Michaela Kreyenfeld
- Social Policy Groups, Hertie School, Friedrichstrasse 180, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Julie Lorraine O’Sullivan
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute for Medical Sociology and Rehabilitation Science, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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Huo M, Kim K, Han SH. The Impact of Marital Quality as Older Couples Adjust to Dementia Onset. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2022; 77:1026-1036. [PMID: 34940834 PMCID: PMC9159057 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbab235] [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: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A burgeoning literature links being married to better cognitive health, but less attention has been paid to how couples view their marital relationships. Couples do not always concur in their assessments, and such discrepancies affect both partners' health. We present a dyadic study on whether and how overall and discrepant views of marital quality predicted (a) dementia onset and (b) changes in older adults' depressive symptoms with spousal dementia. METHODS A pooled sample of couples aged 50+ (dyad N = 3,936) from the Health and Retirement Study rated positive and negative marital quality at baseline (2006/2008). Each participant reported whether they had been told of having dementia and their depressive symptoms once every other year (2006/2008-2014/2016). RESULTS Cox proportional hazards regression revealed that older adults who rated their marriages either more positively or more negatively than their spouses were more likely to develop dementia. We applied multiphase growth curve modeling to older adults whose spouses developed dementia, finding that those in marriages that were more negative overall reported more depressive symptoms but exhibited a smaller increase in these symptoms in response to spousal dementia. DISCUSSION This study adds to the literature by showing how discrepant marital assessments shape cognitive aging and offers new insights into identifying older adults with greater dementia risk. Findings also revealed the impact of overall negative marital quality on older adults' psychological adjustment to spousal dementia, which could inform interventions intended to help couples better cope with early-stage dementia from a relational perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Huo
- Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Kyungmin Kim
- Department of Child Development and Family Studies, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
- Research Institute of Human Ecology, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sae Hwang Han
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
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Thomas PA, Richards EA, Forster AK. Is Marital Quality Related to Physical Activity Across the Life Course for Men and Women? J Aging Health 2022; 34:973-983. [PMID: 35435037 DOI: 10.1177/08982643221083083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although physical activity is linked to multiple health outcomes, a majority of Americans do not meet physical activity guidelines, often with precipitous declines among older adults. Marital quality is a less-explored, but important, factor that may influence physical activity, as spouses often influence each other's health behaviors. METHODS We use nationally representative panel data to investigate whether positive and negative dimensions of marital quality influence physical activity, and whether age and gender moderate these relationships. RESULTS We find that both marital support and strain are related to higher odds of more frequent active exercise and walking, pointing to the complex influence of marital quality. Marital support became increasingly important to higher levels of walking frequency as men aged. DISCUSSION This study provides new information on the ways in which both positive and negative dimensions of marital quality may contribute to trajectories of physical activity across the life course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia A Thomas
- Department of Sociology and Center on Aging and the Life Course, 311308Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Richards
- School of Nursing and Center on Aging and the Life Course, 311308Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Anna K Forster
- School of Nursing and Center on Aging and the Life Course, 311308Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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Thomas PA, Williams-Farrelly MM, Sauerteig MR, Ferraro KF. Childhood Stressors, Relationship Quality, and Cognitive Health in Later Life. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2022; 77:1361-1371. [PMID: 35085393 PMCID: PMC9255934 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbac007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The rising prevalence of cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, and related disorders signals the need for a better understanding of how social factors may affect cognitive health for millions of Americans. Drawing from cumulative inequality theory, we aim to understand the implications of a stressful childhood on social relationships and cognitive health in later life. METHODS This study utilizes longitudinal data (2006-2016) from the Health and Retirement Study to examine pathways, both direct and indirect through social relationships in adulthood, from childhood stressors to cognitive health trajectories over time. RESULTS Respondents reporting a greater number of stressors in childhood had worse cognitive health over time, but those negative effects were not as steep as time progressed. Early-life stressors are also associated with less social support and more social strain in adulthood which, in turn, are associated with initial cognitive health. Finally, pathway analyses confirm that childhood stressors are indirectly associated with initial cognitive health through social strain and social support. DISCUSSION Findings reveal that a stressful childhood creates chains of risks that have lifelong implications for cognitive health, both directly and indirectly by creating obstacles for developing healthy and supportive social relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia A Thomas
- Address correspondence to: Patricia A. Thomas, PhD, Department of Sociology, Purdue University, 700 West State Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA. E-mail:
| | | | - Madison R Sauerteig
- Department of Sociology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA,Center on Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Kenneth F Ferraro
- Department of Sociology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA,Center on Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
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Kim Y. Gender Differences in the Link Between Marital Quality and Cognitive Decline Among Older Adults in Korea. Psychiatry Investig 2021; 18:1091-1099. [PMID: 34732025 PMCID: PMC8600211 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2021.0131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the association between positive marital quality and cognitive health over time and to examine gender differences in this association. METHODS Drawing on 2006-2018 Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging data (n=7,427 respondents, 35,066 person-year observations), a series of hybrid mixed-effects models were used to estimate the effects of time-invariant (gender) and time-variant (marital quality) variables on within-person changes and on between-person differences in cognitive decline over the observation period. RESULTS The results showed that individuals' likelihood of having higher cognitive health grew when their spousal relationship became more positive and that, compared with those with lower levels of marital quality, people with higher levels of marital quality were more likely to have higher cognitive health. Interestingly, improvements in marital quality were more beneficial for men than for women, whereas level of marital quality had similar effects on men's and women's cognitive health. CONCLUSION Couple-based intervention programs aiming to improve marital quality should be encouraged, especially among older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujin Kim
- Department of Sociology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
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Liu H, Zhang Z, Zhang Y. A national longitudinal study of marital quality and cognitive decline among older men and women. Soc Sci Med 2021; 282:114151. [PMID: 34174580 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We provide one of the first national longitudinal studies of the association between trajectories of marital quality and cognitive functioning among older adults, with close attention paid to gender differences. Data were drawn from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) 2006-2016. Marital quality trajectories were assessed at three waves: 2006/2008, 2010/2012, and 2014/2016. Cognitive trajectories were assessed at five waves: 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2016. The final analytic sample included 7901 respondents age 50 and older (4334 men and 3567 women) who were either married or cohabiting during the study period. Results from parallel linear growth curve models suggest that among older adults, initial positive marital quality was associated with better initial cognition, and initial negative marital quality was associated with worse initial cognition. Results from multiple group analysis further suggest that marital quality was significantly associated with men's cognitive trajectories but not women's. Among men, an increase in positive marital quality was associated with a slower rate of cognitive decline, whereas an increase in negative marital quality was associated with a faster rate of cognitive decline. These findings suggest that older men who experience a decline in marital quality may be vulnerable to cognitive decline and that reducing marital strain and improving marital quality may protect men's cognitive health in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Liu
- Department of Sociology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
| | - Zhenmei Zhang
- Department of Sociology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Sociology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Zhou L, Ma X, Wang W. Relationship between Cognitive Performance and Depressive Symptoms in Chinese Older Adults: The China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). J Affect Disord 2021; 281:454-458. [PMID: 33360747 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.12.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In China, an increasing number of people are aging; therefore, attention should be paid to age-related cognitive impairment. With the increasing attention given to geriatric depression in recent years, we focused our investigation on the relationship between depression in the elderly and cognitive decline in a large Chinese community study. METHODS We screened 4,771 subjects that met the inclusion criteria from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study database. Depressive symptoms and cognitive performance were assessed using the 10-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), respectively. RESULTS We found that 4.46% of the elderly have depression and 35.19% have depressive symptoms. Lower education, higher CESD-10 score, increased age, and more negative marital status were associated with poor cognitive performance in the Chinese elderly. CESD-10 is negatively correlated with each MMSE item, including orientation, memory, attention and computation, and language. LIMITATIONS It was difficult to draw conclusions about causation since there was no follow-up data, and high CESD-10 scores do not represent the population study finally diagnosed with depression. Finally, it is not clear whether the decline in cognitive function had an impact on participants' understanding of the problems in the CESD-10. CONCLUSIONS This study preliminary prompted severe depressive symptoms associated with worse cognitive performance in a Chinese elderly community population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Zhou
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, P.R.China
| | - Xiancang Ma
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, P.R.China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, P.R.China.
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Caillot-Ranjeva S, Amieva H, Meillon C, Helmer C, Berr C, Bergua V. Similarities in cognitive abilities in older couples: a study of mutual influences. J Clin Exp Neuropsychol 2021; 43:78-90. [PMID: 33550917 DOI: 10.1080/13803395.2021.1874882] [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: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Similarities between spouses in cognitive functions have been mainly explained by the assortative mating phenomenon and the convergence for age and education. The mutual influence between spouses is another explanation particularly relevant in the elderly population. Today, it remains difficult to determine whether cognitive similarities exclusively result from the convergence effect or from the mutual influence. Using a novel methodology, the present study aimed to assess the impact of the marital relationship on cognitive similarities among elderly couples.Methods: 1723 couples from the Three-City Cohort Study were classified in two groups of couples with homogeneous and heterogeneous age and education. We also constituted two groups of pseudo-couples by a random association of individuals, with homogeneous and heterogeneous age and education. Dyadic analyses were conducted in the four groups, regarding the similarities in lexicosemantic abilities, executive functions, memory and global cognitive functioning.Results: Similarities were found on lexicosemantic abilities both in mate-assorted couples and in couples heterogeneous in age and education but no similarity was found in pseudo-couples.Discussion: Beyond the convergence effect, the fact that the spouses co-construct their lifestyles may contribute to cognitive similarities in the lexicosemantic domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sybille Caillot-Ranjeva
- Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France
| | - Hélène Amieva
- Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France
| | - Céline Meillon
- Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France
| | - Catherine Helmer
- Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France
| | - Claudine Berr
- Neuropsychiatry: Epidemiological and Clinical Research, Univ. Montpellier, Inserm, UMR 1061, Montpellier, France
| | - Valérie Bergua
- Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, UMR 1219, Bordeaux, France
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Gallagher EA, Stokes JE. Cognitive Functioning, Gender, and Marital Quality Among Older Married Couples: A Dyadic Approach. J Women Aging 2021; 33:137-152. [PMID: 33385305 DOI: 10.1080/08952841.2020.1852859] [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: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
This study examines associations of older husbands' and wives' cognitive functioning with both partners' marital quality. Generalized structural equation modeling analyzed data from 1,432 opposite-sex couples drawn from the 2016 wave of the Health and Retirement Study. Findings revealed that wives' poorer cognitive functioning was associated with wives reporting greater closeness and enjoyment of time with a spouse, whereas husbands' poorer cognitive functioning was associated with wives reporting greater marital strain, lower marital support, lower closeness, and less enjoyment of time with a spouse. This suggests that cognitive functioning has dyadic consequences for marital quality, which are highly gendered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Gallagher
- Department of Gerontology, McCormack Graduate School of Policy & Global Studies, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffrey E Stokes
- Department of Gerontology, McCormack Graduate School of Policy & Global Studies, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Yu YL, Liu H. Marital Quality and Salivary Telomere Length Among Older Men and Women in the United States. J Aging Health 2020; 33:300-309. [PMID: 33371776 DOI: 10.1177/0898264320980250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The link between marital quality and cellular aging remains underexplored. This study examined how both positive and negative marital quality were associated with salivary telomere length among partnered adults in the United States over the age of 50°years. Methods: Data were from the 2008 Health and Retirement Study (N = 3203). Ordinary least squares regression was used to estimate the link between marital quality and telomere length. Results: While neither positive nor negative marital quality was significantly associated with telomere length among older women, positive and negative marital quality had an interacting effect on telomere length among men. Specifically, when negative marital quality was low, higher positive marital quality was associated with shorter telomere length, whereas when negative marital quality was high, higher positive marital quality was associated with longer telomere length. Discussion: The findings speak to the complex nature of intimate partnerships and the implications of these partnerships for cellular aging processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Liang Yu
- Department of Sociology and Criminology, 8369Howard University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Sociology, 3078Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Ice E, Ang S, Greenberg K, Burgard S. Women's Work-Family Histories and Cognitive Performance in Later Life. Am J Epidemiol 2020; 189:922-930. [PMID: 32219370 PMCID: PMC7607964 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwaa042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term exposures to the stress and stimulation of different work, parenting, and partnership combinations might influence later life cognition. We investigated the relationship between women's work-family life histories and cognitive functioning in later life. Analyses were based on data from women born between 1930 and 1957 in 14 European countries, from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (2004-2009) (n = 11,908). Multichannel sequence analysis identified 5 distinct work-family typologies based on women's work, partnership, and childrearing statuses between ages 12 and 50 years. Multilevel regressions were used to test the association between work-family histories and later-life cognition. Partnered mothers who mainly worked part-time had the best cognitive function in later life, scoring approximately 0.63 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.18, 1.07) points higher than mothers who worked full-time on a 19-point scale. Partnered mothers who were mainly unpaid caregivers or who did other unpaid activities had cognitive scores that were 1.19 (95% CI: 0.49, 1.89) and 0.93 (95% CI: 0.20, 1.66) points lower than full-time working mothers. The findings are robust to adjustment for childhood advantage and educational credentials. This study provides new evidence that long-term exposures to certain social role combinations after childhood and schooling are linked to later-life cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Ice
- Correspondence to Erin Ice, Department of Sociology, University of Michigan, 500 S. State Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (e-mail: )
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19
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Xu M. Spousal Education and Cognitive Functioning in Later Life. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2020; 75:e141-e150. [PMID: 30715517 PMCID: PMC7984419 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbz014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Numerous studies have documented the relationship between education and cognitive functioning at the individual level. Yet few studies have examined whether a spouse's education spills over to influence the other spouse's cognitive functioning. This study, therefore, investigates the association between spousal education and cognitive functioning, the pathways that may account for this association, and gender differences in this association. METHOD Growth curve models were analyzed by using longitudinal couple data from the Health and Retirement Study (N = 5,846 individuals). RESULTS More years of spousal education are associated with higher level of cognitive functioning at age 65 (γ000 = 0.0532, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.0163-0.0901) and slower decline in cognitive functioning in later adulthood (γ100 = 0.0054, 95% CI = 0.0026-0.0082). The positive association between spousal education and the level of cognitive functioning at age 65 is fully explained by economic resources. The association of spousal education with the rate of change in cognitive functioning decreases but remains significant after controlling for economic resources and health behaviors (γ100 = 0.0043, 95% CI = 0.0014-0.0072). The association between spousal education and cognitive functioning is similar for men and women. DISCUSSION Findings suggest that more years of spousal education may slow decline in cognitive functioning for men and women in later life.
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Bhattacharyya KK. The sacred relationship between marriage, spirituality and healthy aging in Hinduism. JOURNAL OF RELIGION, SPIRITUALITY & AGING 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/15528030.2019.1670771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Wang J, Zhu WH, Li YF, Zhu WW. Temporal precedence of cognitive function and functional abilities: A latent difference score model of the Chinese community-dwelling elders. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2019; 34:1892-1899. [PMID: 31469190 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Little research has explored how cognitive function and activities of daily living (ADL) affect each other over time. In addition, no current finding provides a clear hint to the temporal precedence between them. The present study tries to address these limitations of prior studies by utilizing a longitudinal data and advanced statistical modeling. METHODS This study analyzed the data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), a prospective observational study performed every 2 years for a total of three waves between 2011 and 2015 using a multistage probability sampling. Cognitive function was measured on the basis of three aspects of cognitive performance. Functional abilities were assessed using six types of activities of ADL and five types of instrumental ADL (IADL). Latent difference score modeling was employed to investigate the temporal precedence between cognitive function and ADL. RESULTS The best fitting model indicates poor cognitive function precede worsening in ADL function, whereas the current findings did not support that poor ADL predate the cognition decline or reciprocal influence hypotheses. CONCLUSIONS The elderly with poor cognitive function may be more vulnerable to deterioration in ADL. Findings underscore the importance of early screening for cognitive function among the elderly as the key strategy to prevent further ADL impairment and keep independence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Heng Zhu
- College of information science and technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - You-Fu Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Wen Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Thomas PA, Umberson D. Do Older Parents' Relationships With Their Adult Children Affect Cognitive Limitations, and Does This Differ for Mothers and Fathers? J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2019; 73:1133-1142. [PMID: 28201693 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbx009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Increasing risk for cognitive limitations in later life, along with an aging population, presents critical challenges for caregiving families and health care systems. These challenges urgently call for research examining factors that may protect against or exacerbate cognitive limitations among older adults. We examine the quality of relationships with adult children, a feature of the social environment known to affect physical and mental health and that may also influence the cognitive health of aging parents. Methods Using nationally representative panel data from the Americans' Changing Lives survey, we analyze the impact of both emotional support and strain in relationships with adult children on trajectories of cognitive limitations of aging parents. Results Higher levels of strain with adult children were linked to higher initial levels of cognitive limitations among mothers but appeared to be protective against increasing cognitive limitations for fathers as they aged. Discussion The gender gap in cognitive limitations may be exacerbated among aging parents experiencing high levels of strain with their adult children. These findings point to the importance of taking gender into account and studying whether positive and negative aspects of close social relationships affect older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia A Thomas
- Department of Sociology and Center on Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Debra Umberson
- Department of Sociology and Population Research Center, University of Texas at Austin
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23
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Sharifian N, Zahodne LB. The Enduring Effects of Mother-Child Interactions on Episodic Memory in Adulthood. JOURNAL OF MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY 2019; 81:936-952. [PMID: 31937977 PMCID: PMC6959214 DOI: 10.1111/jomf.12569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the enduring effects of retrospective reports of early life mother-child interactions on psychosocial and cognitive functioning later in life. BACKGROUND Mother-child interactions have been linked to cognitive outcomes in childhood, however, little work has examined whether early life mother-child interactions have far-reaching effects on episodic memory in adulthood. Early life mother-child interactions may also influence cognitive functioning in adulthood indirectly through the development of academic competence (education attainment), social competence (marital satisfaction, social support, contact frequency), and/or depressive symptoms. METHODS Using longitudinal data from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study sibling respondents (1993-2011; baseline: 29-79 years), we examined how retrospective positive mother-child interactions (PMCI) and negative mother-child interactions (NMCI) were independently associated with episodic memory. Structural equation modeling was used to model direct and indirect pathways from PMCI and NMCI to episodic memory and latent change in episodic memory. RESULTS More PMCI retrospectively reported at T1 were associated with higher T2 memory and less memory decline from T2 to T3 via higher education. Additionally, more PMCI were associated with higher T2 memory through greater marital satisfaction. Independent of these indirect effects, more PMCI and NMCI were each associated with higher T2 memory, but not memory change. CONCLUSION Mother-child interactions appeared to have an enduring effect on episodic memory in adulthood. These findings highlight the importance of taking a more integrative and lifespan perspective to assess how early life experiences affect socioemotional and cognitive development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neika Sharifian
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor MI
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24
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Zahodne LB, Ajrouch KJ, Sharifian N, Antonucci TC. Social relations and age-related change in memory. Psychol Aging 2019; 34:751-765. [PMID: 31180697 DOI: 10.1037/pag0000369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Previous research suggests that social relations are associated with age-related memory change. However, social relations are complex and multidimensional, and it is not yet clear which aspects (structure, quality) may be beneficial over time. Further, the strength and direction of associations may differ depending on relationship type (partner, children, other family, friends). Using longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study (n = 10,390; Mage = 69, SD = 9.53 at baseline), latent growth curve models tested which aspects of social relations predicted 6-year episodic memory trajectories. Both structure and quality of social relations were associated with initial memory level, such that being married/partnered, reporting more frequent contact with children and friends, reporting less support from family members other than partners and children, and reporting less strain across relationship types were each independently associated with better initial memory. In contrast, only structure was associated with subsequent memory decline. Specifically, being married/partnered and reporting more frequent contact with friends were each independently associated with slower memory decline. No evidence of bidirectionality was found, as baseline memory did not predict subsequent changes in social relations. This longitudinal study helps to clarify which aspects of social relations are most likely to influence late-life episodic memory trajectories. Future intervention studies may focus on increasing social interactions with nonfamily members to minimize memory decline with age. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
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Wong JS, Hsieh N. Functional Status, Cognition, and Social Relationships in Dyadic Perspective. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2019; 74:703-714. [PMID: 28369622 PMCID: PMC6460338 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbx024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Health limitations can change older adults' social relationships and social engagement. Yet, researchers rarely examine how the disability of one's spouse might affect one's social relationships, even though such life strains are often experienced as a couple. This study investigates the association between functional and cognitive limitations and social experience in a dyadic context. METHOD We use actor-partner interdependence models to analyze the partner data from 953 heterosexual couples in Wave II (2010-2011) of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project. RESULTS One spouse's functional and cognitive health is associated with the other's relationship quality, but the pattern varies by gender. Husbands' functional limitations are associated with lower marital support and higher marital strain in wives, but wives' functional limitations are related to lower family and friendship strain in husbands. Husbands' cognitive impairment also predicts higher family and friend support in wives. DISCUSSION Findings support a gendered dyadic relationship between health and social life and highlight women's caregiver role and better connection with family and friends. There are also differences between experiencing cognitive and physical limitations in couples. Finally, mild health impairment sometimes shows stronger effects on social relationships than severe impairment, suggesting adaptation to health transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaclyn S Wong
- NORC, Department of Sociology, University of Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ning Hsieh
- Department of Sociology, Michigan State University, East Lansing
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26
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Living alone and cognitive function in later life. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2019; 81:222-233. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2018.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Ishtiak-Ahmed K, Hansen ÅM, Mortensen EL, Garde AH, Nørgaard A, Gyntelberg F, Rod NH, Islamoska S, Lund R, Phung TKT, Prescott E, Waldemar G, Nabe-Nielsen K. Prolonged or serious conflicts at work and incident dementia: a 23-year follow-up of the Copenhagen City Heart Study. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2019; 92:165-173. [PMID: 30370497 PMCID: PMC6341042 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-018-1365-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Only a few studies have investigated the impact of negative aspects of social relations on cognitive function, and they have shown mixed results. Conflicts at work are part of the negative aspects of social relations, but the impact of experiencing conflicts at work has not yet been investigated as a risk factor for dementia. Therefore, we investigated whether experiencing prolonged or serious conflicts with a supervisor or colleagues at work was associated with incident dementia in old age. METHODS We analyzed data of 6,436 men and women from the third survey of the Copenhagen City Heart Study. At baseline in 1991-1994, the participants reported whether they had ever had a prolonged or serious conflict at work. The participants were followed until 2014. We used Poisson regression to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS After adjusting for potential confounders, the IRR for dementia was 1.53 (95% CI 0.77-3.03) among participants who had reported having prolonged or serious conflicts both with a supervisor and colleagues compared with participants who had never had such conflicts. In separate analyses stratified by sex, the IRRs were 2.14 (95% Cl 0.97-4.71) for men and 0.98 (95% Cl 0.29-3.32) for women. CONCLUSIONS Our findings did not support an overall association between experiencing prolonged or serious conflicts at work and incident dementia. However, because of the large differences in the point estimates for men and women, future research could aim at investigating potential sex differences regarding the association between conflicts at work and dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazi Ishtiak-Ahmed
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Åse Marie Hansen
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014, Copenhagen, Denmark
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Erik Lykke Mortensen
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Helene Garde
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014, Copenhagen, Denmark
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ane Nørgaard
- Department of Neurology, Danish Dementia Research Centre, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen Section 6911, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Finn Gyntelberg
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Naja Hulvej Rod
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sabrina Islamoska
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rikke Lund
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thien Kieu Thi Phung
- Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva Prescott
- Department of Cardiology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Bispebjerg Bakke 23, 2400, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gunhild Waldemar
- Department of Neurology, Danish Dementia Research Centre, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen Section 6911, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kirsten Nabe-Nielsen
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Toussaint LL, Shields GS, Green E, Kennedy K, Travers S, Slavich GM. Hostility, forgiveness, and cognitive impairment over 10 years in a national sample of American adults. Health Psychol 2018; 37:1102-1106. [PMID: 30346198 DOI: 10.1037/hea0000686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined the extent to which self-forgiveness and forgiveness of others moderated the association of hostility with changes in cognitive impairment over 10 years in a nationally representative sample of adults in the United States. METHOD Participants were 1,084 respondents to the Americans' Changing Lives survey, a longitudinal study of American adults. Hostility, self-forgiveness, forgiveness of others, and cognitive impairment were measured at baseline, and cognitive impairment was assessed again at follow-up. Moderated multiple regression analyses tested whether self-forgiveness and forgiveness of others moderated the association of hostility with changes in cognitive impairment over time, controlling for baseline cognitive impairment and relevant sociodemographic and clinical factors. RESULTS As hypothesized, greater hostility levels at baseline predicted more cognitive impairment 10 years later, β = .08, p < .01. In addition, self-forgiveness at baseline moderated the association between baseline hostility and cognitive impairment at follow-up, β = -.07, p < .01. Decomposing this interaction revealed that hostility significantly predicted increased cognitive impairment at follow-up for individuals with low, β = .15, p < .001, and average, β = .08, p = .001, levels of self-forgiveness but not for persons with high levels of self-forgiveness, β = .03, p = .34. In contrast, forgiveness of others was not a significant moderator. CONCLUSIONS Greater hostility is associated with the development of more cognitive impairment over 10 years, and being more self-forgiving appears to mitigate these hostility-related effects on cognition. Enhancing self-forgiveness may thus represent one possible strategy for promoting cognitive resilience in adulthood. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - George M Slavich
- Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, University of California, Los Angeles
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Abstract
Family relationships are enduring and consequential for well-being across the life course. We discuss several types of family relationships—marital, intergenerational, and sibling ties—that have an important influence on well-being. We highlight the quality of family relationships as well as diversity of family relationships in explaining their impact on well-being across the adult life course. We discuss directions for future research, such as better understanding the complexities of these relationships with greater attention to diverse family structures, unexpected benefits of relationship strain, and unique intersections of social statuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia A Thomas
- Department of Sociology and Center on Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Sociology, Michigan State University, East Lansing
| | - Debra Umberson
- Department of Sociology and Population Research Center, University of Texas at Austin
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Neysari M, Bodenmann G, Mehl MR, Bernecker K, Nussbeck FW, Backes S, Zemp M, Martin M, Horn AB. Monitoring Pronouns in Conflicts. GEROPSYCH-THE JOURNAL OF GERONTOPSYCHOLOGY AND GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY 2016. [DOI: 10.1024/1662-9647/a000158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Abstract. Conflict communication represents a basic process for the quality of intimate relationships, which is fundamental to well-being over the lifespan. This study investigates the temporal unfolding of different relational perspectives during a conflict situation by monitoring pronoun use in young, middle-aged, and old couples within the theoretical framework of Gottman’s phases of conflict. Our results reveal different trajectories of “I”-, “you”-, and “we”-talk over a conflict conversation in both partners. These trajectories differ between females and males. Furthermore, “you”-talk and “we”-talk differed among the age groups over time. Understanding the temporal dynamics of marital communication as reflected by pronoun use seems promising for a better understanding of conflict related processes in couples over the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Neysari
- , Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Guy Bodenmann
- , Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | | | - Sabine Backes
- , Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martina Zemp
- , Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mike Martin
- , Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrea B. Horn
- , Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
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Liu H, Waite L, Shen S. Diabetes Risk and Disease Management in Later Life: A National Longitudinal Study of the Role of Marital Quality. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2016; 71:1070-1080. [PMID: 27216861 PMCID: PMC5067945 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbw061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We assess the association between marital quality and both the risk of developing diabetes and the management of diabetes after its onset in later life. METHOD We use data from the first two waves of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project to estimate regression models with lagged dependent variables. The sample includes 1,228 married respondents, among whom 389 were diabetic. Those with either a reported diagnosis or with HbA1c ≥ 6.5% are identified diabetic. We categorize diabetic respondents into three groups: controlled, undiagnosed, and uncontrolled diabetes. We conduct factor analysis to construct positive and negative marital quality scales. RESULTS For women, an increase in positive marital quality between Waves 1 and 2 is related to a lower risk of being diabetic at Wave 2, net of diabetes status at Wave 1; surprisingly, for men, an increase in negative marital quality between Waves 1 and 2 is related to both a lower risk of being diabetic at Wave 2 and a higher chance of controlling diabetes at Wave 2 after its onset. DISCUSSION Our results challenge the traditional assumption that negative marital quality is always detrimental to health and encourage family scholars to distinguish different sources and types of negative marital quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Liu
- Department of Sociology, Michigan State University, East Lansing.
| | - Linda Waite
- Department of Sociology and NORC, University of Chicago, Illinois
| | - Shannon Shen
- Department of Sociology, Michigan State University, East Lansing
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Assari S, Lankarani MM. Stressful Life Events and Risk of Depression 25 Years Later: Race and Gender Differences. Front Public Health 2016; 4:49. [PMID: 27047914 PMCID: PMC4805579 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2016.00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although stressful life events (SLEs) predict subsequent risk of developing a major depressive episode (MDE), limited information exists on whether or not race and gender alters the predictive role of SLE on risk of MDE over a long-term period. The current study explored race and gender differences in the long-term predictive role of SLE at baseline (1986) on subsequent risk of MDE 25 years later (2011) in a nationally representative cohort in the United States. METHODS Using a life course epidemiological approach, this longitudinal study borrowed data from the Americans' Changing Lives (ACL) Study 1986-2011. Main predictor of interest was baseline SLE over the last 3 years measured at 1986. Main outcome was risk of MDE [Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI)] 25 years later (2011). Covariates included demographics, socioeconomics, depressive symptoms [Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D)], chronic medical conditions, and health behaviors measured at baseline (1986). Gender and race were the focal moderators. We employed logistic regressions in the pooled sample, and specific to race and gender, to test whether or not SLE × race and SLE × gender interactions are significant. RESULTS In the pooled sample, baseline SLE (1986) predicted risk of MDE 25 years later (2011). We also found a gender by SLE interaction, suggesting a stronger predictive role of SLE for subsequent clinical depression for men compared to women. Race did not modify the predictive role of SLE on subsequent risk of MDE 25 years later. CONCLUSION How SLE predicts MDE 25 years later differs for men and women, with a stronger predictive role for men compared to women. More research is needed to better understand the complex links between gender, sex, stress, and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health (CRECH), School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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