1
|
Tajika A, Nakagomi A, Miyaguni Y, Koga C, Kondo K, Ojima T. Internet Use and Higher-Level Functional Capacity Decline Suppression in Japanese Older Adults With Low Education: JAGES 2016-2019 Longitudinal Study. JMIR Aging 2024; 7:e53384. [PMID: 39303276 PMCID: PMC11452757 DOI: 10.2196/53384] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Higher-level functional capacity (HLFC) is crucial for the independent living of older adults. While internet use positively impacts the health of older adults, its effect on HLFC and how this effect varies with educational attainment remains uncertain. OBJECTIVE This longitudinal study aimed to investigate whether internet use could mitigate the risk of HLFC decline and if this benefit extends to older adults with lower levels of education. METHODS The data were sourced from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study (JAGES), encompassing 8050 community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and older from 2016 to 2019. The study focused on those who remained self-sufficient from 2016 to 2019, identifying participants with independent HLFC in 2016. The Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence defined HLFC operationally, consisting of 3 subscales, namely instrumental activities of daily living, intellectual activity, and social role. The primary variable was the frequency of internet use in 2016; participants who reported using the internet were classified as internet users, while those who answered "No" were identified as nonusers. The study compared the effects of internet use on HLFC decline across educational levels of ≤9 years, 10-12 years, and ≥13 years using Poisson regression analysis adjusted for robust SE to calculate the risk ratio (RR) and 95% CI for HLFC decline in 2019. RESULTS After adjusting for demographic and health condition risk factors, internet use was significantly linked to a decreased risk of HLFC decline in older adults over 3 years, including those with lower educational levels. Internet users with ≤9 years of educational attainment experienced a suppressed decline in the total score (RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.43-0.76; P<.001); instrumental activities of daily living (RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.38-0.91; P=.02), intellectual activity (RR 0.60, 95% CI 0.41-0.89; P=.01), and social role (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.56-0.97; P=.03) compared with nonusers. Participants with 10-12 years of education showed suppression rates of 0.78 (95% CI 0.63-0.98; P=.03), 0.59 (95% CI 0.39-0.90; P=.01), 0.91 (95% CI 0.63-1.31; P=.61), and 0.82 (95% CI 0.68-1.00; P=.05), respectively, and those with ≥13 years displayed suppression rates of 0.65 (95% CI 0.51-0.85; P=.001), 0.55 (95% CI 0.36-0.83; P=.01), 0.64 (95% CI 0.37-1.10; P=.11), and 0.83 (95% CI 0.64-1.08; P=.17), respectively. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that internet use supports the maintenance of HLFC independence in older adults with higher education and those with lower educational levels. Encouraging internet use among older adults with lower levels of education through future policies could help narrow functional health disparities associated with educational attainment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atsuko Tajika
- Department of Community Health and Preventive Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Atsushi Nakagomi
- Department of Social Preventive Medical Sciences, Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | | | - Chie Koga
- Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Katsunori Kondo
- Department of Social Preventive Medical Sciences, Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Department of Gerontological Evaluation, Center for Gerontology and Social Science, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Aichi, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Ojima
- Department of Community Health and Preventive Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Shizuoka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lee J, Kim G. Self-reported sensory impairment and social participation among Korean older adults: mediating roles of cognitive function and digital technology use. Aging Ment Health 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38940502 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2024.2370434] [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] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study investigates the correlation between self-reported sensory impairment, cognitive function, digital technology use, and social participation among older adults in South Korea. METHOD Data from the 2020 National Survey of Older Koreans, comprising a nationally representative sample of 7849 individuals aged 65 years or older, were analyzed. A serial mediation analysis (Model = 6) was conducted using the PROCESS macro for SPSS. RESULTS Following adjustment for covariates, cognitive function and digital technology use serially mediated the relationship between self-reported sensory impairment and social participation among older adults (B = -0.0020, SE = 0.0005, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [-0.0030, -0.0010]). Specifically, self-reported sensory impairment exhibited a negative correlation with cognitive function (B = -0.3277, SE = 0.0753, p < .001), which was positively associated with digital technology use (B = 0.0763, SE = 0.0056, p < .001), subsequently linking to enhanced social participation (B = 0.0784, SE = 0.0037, p < .001). CONCLUSION Through cross-sectional analysis, this study confirms that self-reported sensory impairment in older adults may precede cognitive decline, hindering digital technology use and reducing social participation. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in preventing cognitive decline, while age-friendly digital devices may alleviate cognitive burden and promote social engagement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juhyeong Lee
- Department of Psychology, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Giyeon Kim
- Department of Psychology, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ong CH, Pham BL, Levasseur M, Tan GR, Seah B. Sex and gender differences in social participation among community-dwelling older adults: a systematic review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1335692. [PMID: 38680931 PMCID: PMC11046488 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1335692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Frequent social participation among older adults is associated with greater health. Although understanding how sex and gender influence social participation is important, particularly in developing sex-inclusive health promotion and preventive interventions, little is known about factors influencing engagement of older women and men in social activities. Aim This study thus aimed to examine factors influencing social activities of older women and men. Methods A mixed-method systematic review was conducted in nine electronic databases from inception to March 2023. The studies had to define social participation as activities with others and examine its influencing factors among community-dwelling older women and men. Data were analyzed using convergent synthesis design from a socio-ecological perspective. Results Forty-nine studies, comprising 42 quantitative, five qualitative and two mixed method design were included. Themes identified concerned: (a) sociodemographic factors, (b) personal assets, (c) interpersonal relationships and commitments, (d) physical environment, and (e) societal norms and gender expectations. The findings identified the heterogeneous needs, preferences and inequalities faced by older women and men, considerations on sociocultural expectations and norms of each gender when engaging in social activities, and the importance of having adequate and accessible social spaces. Overall, this review identified more evidence on factors influencing social participation among women than in men. Conclusion Special attention is needed among community care providers and healthcare professionals to co-design, implement or prescribe a combination of sex and gender-specific and neutral activities that interest both older women and men. Intersectoral collaborative actions, including public health advocates, gerontologists, policymakers, and land use planners, are needed to unify efforts to foster social inclusion by creating an age-friendly and sustainable healthy environment. More longitudinal studies are required to better understand social participation trajectories from a sex and gender perspective and identify factors influencing it. Systematic reviews registration http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier [CRD42023392764].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Hong Ong
- Nursing Service, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Bang Linh Pham
- Nursing Service, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mélanie Levasseur
- School of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Guang Rong Tan
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Betsy Seah
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Medina-García R, López-Rodríguez JA, Lozano-Hernández CM, Ruiz Bejerano V, Criscio P, Del Cura-González I. A Technological Tool Aimed at Self-Care in Patients With Multimorbidity: Cross-Sectional Usability Study. JMIR Hum Factors 2024; 11:e46811. [PMID: 38578675 PMCID: PMC11031692 DOI: 10.2196/46811] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have been positioned as useful tools to facilitate self-care. The interaction between a patient and technology, known as usability, is particularly important for achieving positive health outcomes. Specific characteristics of patients with chronic diseases, including multimorbidity, can affect their interaction with different technologies. Thus, studying the usability of ICTs in the field of multimorbidity has become a key element to ensure their relevant role in promoting self-care. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to analyze the usability of a technological tool dedicated to health and self-care in patients with multimorbidity in primary care. METHODS A descriptive observational cross-sectional usability study was performed framed in the clinical trial in the primary care health centers of Madrid Health Service of the TeNDER (Affective Based Integrated Care for Better Quality of Life) project. The TeNDER technological tool integrates sensors for monitoring physical and sleep activity along with a mobile app for consulting the data collected and working with self-management tools. This project included patients over 60 years of age who had one or more chronic diseases, at least one of which was mild-moderate cognitive impairment, Parkinson disease, or cardiovascular disease. From the 250 patients included in the project, 38 agreed to participate in the usability study. The usability variables investigated were effectiveness, which was determined by the degree of completion and the total number of errors per task; efficiency, evaluated as the average time to perform each task; and satisfaction, quantified by the System Usability Scale. Five tasks were evaluated based on real case scenarios. Usability variables were analyzed according to the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients. A logistic regression model was constructed to estimate the factors associated with the type of support provided for task completion. RESULTS The median age of the 38 participants was 75 (IQR 72.0-79.0) years. There was a slight majority of women (20/38, 52.6%) and the participants had a median of 8 (IQR 7.0-11.0) chronic diseases. Thirty patients completed the usability study, with a usability effectiveness result of 89.3% (134/150 tasks completed). Among the 30 patients, 66.7% (n=20) completed all tasks and 56.7% (17/30) required personalized help on at least one task. In the multivariate analysis, educational level emerged as a facilitating factor for independent task completion (odds ratio 1.79, 95% CI 0.47-6.83). The median time to complete the total tasks was 296 seconds (IQR 210.0-397.0) and the median satisfaction score was 55 (IQR 45.0-62.5) out of 100. CONCLUSIONS Although usability effectiveness was high, the poor efficiency and usability satisfaction scores suggest that there are other factors that may interfere with the results. Multimorbidity was not confirmed to be a key factor affecting the usability of the technological tool. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov NCT05681065; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05681065.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Medina-García
- Primary Care Research Unit, Madrid Health Service, Madrid, Spain
- General Ricardos Primary Health Care Centre, Madrid Health Service, Madrid, Spain
- Interuniversity Doctoral Program in Epidemiology and Public Health, Rey Juan Carlos University, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
- Biosanitary Research and Innovation Foundation of Primary Care, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan A López-Rodríguez
- Primary Care Research Unit, Madrid Health Service, Madrid, Spain
- General Ricardos Primary Health Care Centre, Madrid Health Service, Madrid, Spain
- Biosanitary Research and Innovation Foundation of Primary Care, Madrid, Spain
- Research Network on Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Rey Juan Carlos University, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina María Lozano-Hernández
- Primary Care Research Unit, Madrid Health Service, Madrid, Spain
- Interuniversity Doctoral Program in Epidemiology and Public Health, Rey Juan Carlos University, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
- Biosanitary Research and Innovation Foundation of Primary Care, Madrid, Spain
- Research Network on Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion, Madrid, Spain
| | - Verónica Ruiz Bejerano
- Visual Telecommunications Application Research Group, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Isabel Del Cura-González
- Primary Care Research Unit, Madrid Health Service, Madrid, Spain
- Research Network on Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Rey Juan Carlos University, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang G, Xu J. The Effect of Social Media Forwarding on Subjective Well-Being in Chinese Older Adults: A Moderated Mediation Model. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2024; 17:917-931. [PMID: 38464811 PMCID: PMC10924885 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s449852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose In the intersection of the aging and information era, the development of digital aging significantly influences the well-being of older individuals. Given the divergent findings in various studies exploring the effects of social media use on mental health, this study specifically examined the impact of forwarding, a prevalent social media behavior among older individuals, focusing on the effects of use intensity on their subjective well-being (SWB) and the specific mechanisms involved. Materials and Methods A total of 323 Chinese older adults completed the questionnaire. SPSS along with Hayes Process Models 4 and 7 was employed to test the hypotheses. Results The results indicated that social media forwarding intensity significantly and positively predicted SWB of older adults. This association was partially mediated by perceived social support (PSS) and self-esteem. Gender served as a moderator, highlighting that the positive predictive effects of forwarding intensity on PSS and self-esteem were more pronounced for older men than for older women. Further, the findings confirmed the existence of the moderated mediating effect such that the impact of forwarding on SWB was mediated through both PSS and self-esteem for older men, while, for older women, it was solely mediated by PSS. Conclusion This study revealed the positive impact of forwarding, a user-friendly social media function, on the well-being of older adults and elucidated the specific mechanisms through a moderated mediation model. In light of these findings, we propose customizing the development of age-friendly social media functions to address the diverse psychological needs of older adults, taking into account gender differences. These findings may offer valuable insights for constructing digital age-friendly platforms and fostering active aging development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geng Wang
- School of Media & Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian Xu
- School of Media & Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Turcotte S, Bouchard C, Rousseau J, DeBroux Leduc R, Bier N, Kairy D, Dang-Vu TT, Sarimanukoglu K, Dubé F, Bourgeois Racine C, Rioux C, Shea C, Filiatrault J. Factors influencing older adults' participation in telehealth interventions for primary prevention and health promotion: A rapid review. Australas J Ageing 2024; 43:11-30. [PMID: 38014903 DOI: 10.1111/ajag.13244] [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: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify facilitators and barriers to older adults' participation in telehealth interventions for primary prevention and health promotion. METHODS Relevant articles were searched using keywords in Embase and MEDLINE. Study characteristics, type of telehealth interventions and technology involved, as well as facilitators and barriers to their use, were extracted from selected articles. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) model was used to organise data. RESULTS A total of 24 articles (pertaining to 20 studies) were included. Nine facilitators and 11 barriers influencing the participation in telehealth interventions for primary prevention and health promotion among older adults were identified. The most recurrent facilitators were related to the individual's performance expectancy and effort expectancy, as well as the presence of a social dimension associated with the intervention (i.e. having a good relationship with the other participants in the program). The two most prevalent barriers were also related to effort expectancy and performance expectancy, followed by barriers related to the inherent characteristics of the technology and older adults' health condition. Experience, age and gender were also found to moderate technology use and acceptance. CONCLUSIONS This rapid review highlights the importance of adopting a holistic perspective when designing telehealth interventions aimed at preventive and health promotion purposes among older adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Turcotte
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Camille Bouchard
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jacqueline Rousseau
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Roxane DeBroux Leduc
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nathalie Bier
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Dahlia Kairy
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire en réadaptation du Montréal métropolitain, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Thien Thanh Dang-Vu
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Kami Sarimanukoglu
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - François Dubé
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Chanaelle Bourgeois Racine
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Camille Rioux
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Carolann Shea
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Johanne Filiatrault
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Umoh ME, Prichett L, Boyd CM, Cudjoe TKM. Impact of technology on social isolation: Longitudinal analysis from the National Health Aging Trends Study. J Am Geriatr Soc 2023; 71:1117-1123. [PMID: 36519748 PMCID: PMC10089961 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.18179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social isolation is a key public health concern and has been associated with numerous negative health consequences. Technology is increasingly thought of as a solution to address social isolation. This study examines the longitudinal association between the access and use of technology and social isolation in older adults 65 and older, living in the United States. METHODS This observational cohort study included community-dwelling older adults (N = 6704) who participated in the National Health and Aging Trends Study. Regression analyses were conducted using data from 2015 to 2019. Information about technology access and use was ascertained using self-reported questionnaires. The primary outcome was the risk of social isolation. RESULTS At baseline, the majority of older adults that were not socially isolated had a working cell phone (88%) or computer (71%) and used email or text messaging (56%). Older adults that had access to (cell phone- incidence rate ratio [IRR] 0.62 [95% CI 0.48-0.81]; computer- IRR 0.63 [95% CI 0.51-0.78]), and used technology (email or text messaging- IRR 0.64 [95% CI 0.51-0.80]) in the year prior had a lower risk of social isolation than older adults who reported they did not access or use technology. Additionally, over four years, older adults who reported that they had access to a computer had a lower risk (0.69 [0.57, 0.84]) for social isolation than their counterparts. CONCLUSION In this cohort study, technology access was associated with a lower risk for social isolation among community-dwelling older adults. These findings suggest that technology has an important role in approaches that seek to prevent social isolation among older adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mfon E Umoh
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Laura Prichett
- Johns Hopkins University, Biostatistics, Epidemiology And Data Management (BEAD) Core, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Cynthia M Boyd
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Thomas K M Cudjoe
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Schuster AM, Ghaiumy Anaraky R, Cotten SR. Online health information seeking and the association with anxiety among older adults. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1076571. [PMID: 36844827 PMCID: PMC9950410 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1076571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The Internet supplies users with endless access to a wealth of information and is generally the first source searched by U.S. adults (18 years and older) when seeking health information. Age and anxiety are associated with online health information seeking (OHIS). Older adults (65 years and older) are increasing their OHIS. Importantly, OHIS can potentially lead to improved health outcomes for older adults. The relationship between OHIS and anxiety is less clear. Studies report those with more symptoms of anxiety are more likely to be OHIS, while other studies find the reverse pattern or no association. Generalized anxiety disorder affects up to 11% of older adults and is oftentimes unrecognized and untreated. Methods To address the mixed findings in the literature, we analyzed six waves (2015-2020) of data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study to assess the causal relationship between anxiety and OHIS using a Random Intercept Cross-lagged Panel Model framework. Results We found that while anxiety symptoms lead to OHIS in the next wave, OHIS was not associated with anxiety symptoms in the next wave. Discussion This suggests that for this sample of older adults, OHIS does not reduce or exacerbate older adults' symptoms of anxiety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy M. Schuster
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States,*Correspondence: Amy M. Schuster ✉
| | - Reza Ghaiumy Anaraky
- Department of Technology Management and Innovation, Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Shelia R. Cotten
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States,Department of Communication, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ma J, Cui J, Zhang Q. A "Motivation" model of couple support for digital technology use among rural older adults. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1095386. [PMID: 36818095 PMCID: PMC9936237 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1095386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Although recent research has demonstrated spouse support for technology use among older adults, by treating them as a homogeneous group, it has overlooked differences caused by socio-demographic dimensions in their digital engagement. Following the approach of the grounded theory and interviewing 15 couples in a developing aging region (Wuzhi County, Henan, China), this study paints a fuller picture of couple support for technology adoption among older adults in terms of their psychological motivations by dividing older adults into two categories: technology supports and technology recipients. The resulting concepts of motivation (e.g., social norms, benefit driven, perceptual elements, and value satisfaction), particularly limiting motivational factors (e.g.,individual status) reveal the psychological mechanisms behind this process and are conceptualized as a "motivation" model of couple support for digital technology use among rural older adults. Our study has strong implications for active and healthy aging, as policymakers can stimulate external motivation for technology adoption among older adults by fostering a sense of family responsibility and social ethos that encourages couples to help each other. In addition, local communities as stakeholders can educate older adults about the usefulness, ease of use, and risk-averse means of digital technology, and satisfy their altruistic and egoistic psychological needs to increase the inner value satisfaction they gain from the couple support process. By doing this, motivation and engagement are thereby increased, and ultimately, technology adoption in disadvantaged socioeconomic groups may be improved.
Collapse
|
10
|
Yang L, Guo D, Zheng J, Guo Y, Li Z. Association between Social Participation and Remaining Teeth and Urban-Rural Difference among Older Adults in China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1283. [PMID: 36674039 PMCID: PMC9859502 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Oral health is an important part of older adults' general health. The study examined the association between social participation (formal and informal) and remaining teeth and the urban-rural difference based on a national survey of older adults in China. The data of older adults were extracted from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) and analyzed. A total of 11,948 respondents were ultimately involved, including 6836 urban respondents and 5112 rural respondents. Informal social participation and formal social participation were used to assess social participation. The number of remaining natural teeth was measured. Social participation was significantly associated with remaining teeth among older adults, after adjusting for confounders, a one-level increase in the informal social participation was associated with a decrease in natural teeth by 0.152 (95% CI = -0.274; -0.030) and a one-level increase in the formal social participation was associated with a decrease in natural teeth by 0.370 (95% CI = -0.585; -0.156). In addition, the association between social participation (formal and informal) and remaining teeth was observed among urban older adults, but not rural older adults. A high level of social participation may effectively decrease the risk of oral-health problems for the Chinese older adults. The findings suggest recommendations for an older adults-targeted policy and the practice of oral-health promotion. However, the urban-rural difference should be taken into full consideration in social-participation-driven oral-health promotion interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Le Yang
- School of Management, Shanxi Medical University, 56 Xinjian South Road, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Petersen B, Khalili-Mahani N, Murphy C, Sawchuk K, Phillips N, Li KZH, Hebblethwaite S. The association between information and communication technologies, loneliness and social connectedness: A scoping review. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1063146. [PMID: 37034933 PMCID: PMC10075275 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1063146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Older adults are at a higher risk of loneliness, compared to other demographics. The use of Internet Communication and Technologies (ICTs) among older adults is steadily increasing and given ICTs provide a means of enhancing social connectedness suggests they may have positive effects on reducing loneliness. Therefore, the aim of this scoping review was to examine the research that explores how ICTs may be implicated in mitigating loneliness and increasing social connectedness among older adults. After the examination of 54 articles, we identified three major themes within the literature: (1) ICTs were associated with a reduction in loneliness and increase in wellbeing. (2) ICTs promoted social connectedness by facilitating conversations. (3) Factors such as training, self-efficacy, self-esteem, autonomy, and the design/features, or affordances, of ICTs contribute toward the associations between ICT use and wellbeing. The heterogeneity of methodologies, statistical reporting, the small sample sizes of interventional and observational studies, and the diversity of the experimental contexts underline the challenges of quantitative research in this field and highlights the necessity of tailoring ICT interventions to the needs and contexts of the older users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Berkley Petersen
- Laboratory for Adult Development and Cognitive Aging, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Berkley Petersen,
| | - Najmeh Khalili-Mahani
- Media Health Lab, Department of Design and Computation Arts, Milieux Institute for Arts, Culture and Technology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill Centre for Integrative Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Caitlin Murphy
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation (CRIR), Lethbridge-Layton-Mackay Rehabilitation Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Kim Sawchuk
- Aging and Communication Technologies (ACT), Department of Communication Studies, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Natalie Phillips
- Laboratory of Cognition, Aging and Psychophysiology (CAP), Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Karen Z. H. Li
- Laboratory for Adult Development and Cognitive Aging, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kebede AS, Ozolins LL, Holst H, Galvin K. Digital Engagement of Older Adults: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e40192. [PMID: 36477006 PMCID: PMC9773036 DOI: 10.2196/40192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital technologies facilitate everyday life, social connectedness, aging at home, well-being, and dignified care. However, older adults are disproportionately excluded from these benefits. Equal digital opportunities, access, and meaningful engagement require an understanding of older adults' experience across different stages of the technological engagement life cycle from nonuse and initial adoption to sustained use, factors influencing their decisions, and how the experience changes over time. OBJECTIVE Our objectives were to identify the extent and breadth of existing literature on older adults' perspective on digital engagement and summarize the barriers to and facilitators for technological nonuse, initial adoption, and sustained digital technology engagement. METHODS We used the Arksey and O'Malley framework for the scoping review process. We searched MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, and ACM digital library for primary studies published between 2005 and 2021. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed based on the Joanna Briggs Institute (participants, content, and context) framework. Studies that investigated the digital engagement experience as well as barriers to and facilitators of older adults' digital technology engagement were included. The characteristics of the study, types of digital technology, and digital engagement levels were analyzed descriptively. Content analysis was used to generate tentative elements using a congruent theme, and barriers and facilitators were mapped over the capability, opportunity, and motivation behavior change model (COM-B) and the theoretical domain framework. The findings were reported in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews). RESULTS In total, 96 publications were eligible for the final charting and synthesis. Most of the studies were published over the past 5 years, investigated the initial adoption stage of digital engagement, and focused on everyday technologies. The most cited barriers and facilitators across the engagement stages from each COM-B component were capability (eg, physical and psychological changes and lack of skill), opportunity (eg, technological features, environmental context, and resources), and motivation (eg, optimism from perceived usefulness and beliefs about capability). CONCLUSIONS The COM-B model and theoretical domain framework provide a guide for identifying multiple and intertwined barriers and facilitators at each stage of digital engagement. There are limited studies looking into the whole spectrum of older adults' digital technology experience; in particular, studies on technological nonuse and sustained use stages are rare. Future research and practice should focus on tailored interventions accounting for the barriers to older adults' digital engagement and addressing capabilities, motivation, and opportunities; affordable, usable, and useful digital technologies, which address the changes and capability requirements of older adults and are cocreated with a value framework; and lifelong learning and empowerment to develop older adults' knowledge and skills to cope with digital technology development. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/25616.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lise-Lotte Ozolins
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, Växjö, Sweden
| | - Hanna Holst
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, Växjö, Sweden
| | - Kathleen Galvin
- School of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
The Effects of Online Social Interactions on Life Satisfaction of Older Chinese Adults: New Insights Based on a Longitudinal Approach. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10101964. [PMID: 36292411 PMCID: PMC9602052 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10101964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Population aging and digitalization have become universal phenomena. Over the past two decades, digital inclusion has started to play a crucial role in supporting successful aging. Based on a nationally representative sample of around 5200 older adults in China over the period of 2014-2018, we explore the effects of online social interactions (OSIs) on the life satisfaction of older adults. We find that OSIs can improve the levels of life satisfaction of older Chinese adults. Estimates from fixed effect and cross-lagged structural equation models further suggest that OSIs work by increasing physical activities, healthy time allocation, interpersonal trust, and informal social engagement and reducing loneliness. We also find that OSIs narrow the social inequality in life satisfaction across groups from rural-urban areas and groups with different social statuses. Moreover, a comparison among different online engagements shows that not all online activities positively affect older adults' life satisfaction. Different online activities have varying effects. Our results highlight that public digital interventions focusing on social functions can benefit the lives of older adults.
Collapse
|
14
|
Trukeschitz B, Eisenberg S, Schneider C, Schneider U. Exploring the effectiveness of a fitness-app prototype for home care service users in Austria and Italy. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e2884-e2895. [PMID: 35098601 PMCID: PMC9546286 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
An infinite number of fitness apps are available on various app stores. However, hardly any of them are fitted to the needs and requirements of care-dependent people. This paper investigates the effectiveness of a customised fitness-app prototype for increasing physical activity in home care service users. Home care service users from Austria and Italy were randomly assigned to two groups. In total, 216 participants were involved in the field trial, 104 received a tablet with the fitness app and an activity tracker (treatment group), 112 did not (control group). Regularity of physical activity, frequency of fitness exercises and walking behaviour were self-reported by participants at baseline, after 4 months and after 8 months. In addition, the frequency of using the prototype was assessed based on the fitness app's logged usage data. We estimated multilevel mixed-effects ordered logistic models to examine the effects of the intervention. After 4 months, the intervention increased the home care users' probability of agreeing strongly with being physically active on a regular basis by 28 percentage points (p < 0.001; 95% CI: 0.20, 0.36) and their probability of reporting to exercise more than once a week by 45 percentage points (p < 0.001; 95% CI: 0.32, 0.57). Walking behaviour was not affected on group-level but improved for frequent users of the activity tracker. Frequent and regular users of the fitness app benefited most and effects persisted until the end of the 8 months controlled trial. Tailoring a fitness-app prototype to the needs of care-dependent people has the potential to support people with functional limitations to engage in a more active lifestyle. Future research is encouraged to seek further insights into how new technologies can support physical activities in people with long-term care needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Trukeschitz
- Research Institute for Economics of AgingWU Vienna University of Economics and BusinessViennaAustria
| | - Siegfried Eisenberg
- Research Institute for Economics of AgingWU Vienna University of Economics and BusinessViennaAustria
| | - Cornelia Schneider
- Institute of Computer ScienceUniversity of Applied Sciences Wiener NeustadtWiener NeustadtAustria
| | - Ulrike Schneider
- Research Institute for Economics of AgingWU Vienna University of Economics and BusinessViennaAustria
- Institute for Social Policy and Research Institute for Economics of AgingWU Vienna University of Economics and BusinessViennaAustria
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Choi M. Factors associated with eHealth use among community dwelling older adults. Int J Nurs Pract 2022; 28:e13092. [PMID: 35977421 DOI: 10.1111/ijn.13092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the proliferation of the internet and the development of internet-based healthcare interventions, eHealth is expected to be an effective complement to traditional healthcare services. However, without understanding the characteristics of the user population, eHealth itself can isolate older adults. AIM This study aims to identify the characteristics of internet use and the factors associated with eHealth use among older adults. METHODS A secondary data analysis was conducted from a cross-sectional descriptive study. A convenience sample of 186 community dwelling older adults was recruited at two senior welfare centres in Korea. The data collected included demographic characteristics, health related characteristics, internet use, eHealth use and eHealth literacy. Multiple linear regression was utilized to determine factors related to eHealth use. RESULTS Among 186 respondents, 98 reported that they used the internet. Internet usage was associated with educational attainment, marital status, cognitive function and possession of internet-enabled devices. The results of multiple regression analysis showed that greater eHealth usage was related to more positive perception of eHealth usability and better eHealth literacy among older adults. CONCLUSION Educational programmes for older adults should be developed to facilitate digital capability and eHealth literacy. Useful and effective online health resources that are easy to use should be also developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- MoonKi Choi
- Department of Nursing, College of Nursing, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Gangwon, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Nurhasanah N, Asmawita H, Khairani K, Hadi N, Nurhidayah I, Febriana D, Putra A. How is the Elderly’s Capability to Use Smartphones in Banda Aceh. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.9084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Smartphone is one form of technology that is increasing that provides many benefits for the elderly such as the many applications adapted to improve the quality of life of the elderly; one of them is the existence of health applications.
AIM: The purpose of this study was to determine how the ability to use smartphones in the elderly in Banda Aceh, which includes the ability to use the basics of the software, communication, data and file storage, internet, calendar, entertainment, privacy, and security, and software troubleshooting and management.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study used a descriptive exploratory with a cross-sectional study design. The sampling technique is non-probability sampling using the snowball sampling method with as many as 400 older people. The research data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, namely, the distribution of frequencies and percentages.
RESULTS: The results of the research in the capable component contained the primary use of mobile devices (99.5%), entertainment (95.3%), and the internet (86.3%). While the part that respondent is less capable, there are privacy and security (94.5%), data and file storage (81.7%), communication (79.5%), calendar (59.7%), as well as troubleshooting and device management soft (50.5%).
CONCLUSION: From the study finding, it is expected that nursing services can improve the ability of the elderly in fulfilling the IADL. One of them is utilizing existing smartphone applications and providing nursing interventions for the elderly using smartphones.
Collapse
|
17
|
Tang D, Jin Y, Zhang K, Wang D. Internet Use, Social Networks, and Loneliness Among the Older Population in China. Front Psychol 2022; 13:895141. [PMID: 35645921 PMCID: PMC9133735 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.895141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
While the rate of Internet use among the older population in China is rapidly increasing, the outcomes associated with Internet use remain largely unexplored. Currently, there are contradictory findings indicating that Internet use is sometimes positively and sometimes negatively associated with older adults' subjective well-being. Therefore, we examined the associations between different types of Internet use, social networks, and loneliness among Chinese older adults using data from the Chinese Longitudinal Ageing Society Survey (N = 1863). Internet use was classified as interpersonal communication and information acquisition, and social networks were divided into family and friendship ties. The results showed that both interpersonal communication and information acquisition were associated with lower loneliness. Interpersonal communication can increase social networks, and family ties have a mediating effect on the association between Internet use for interpersonal communication and loneliness. Although information acquisition can directly decrease loneliness in older adults, it can also damage existing social networks and further increase loneliness. Family ties act as a suppressor in the association between Internet use for information acquisition and loneliness. Our study further discusses important implications for improving the subjective well-being of older adults in the digital era, based on the empirical findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Tang
- Center for Population and Development Studies, Renmin University of China, Beijing, China
- Institute of Gerontology, Renmin University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Yongai Jin
- Center for Population and Development Studies, Renmin University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Kun Zhang
- National Institute of Education Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dahua Wang
- Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Older adults are largely ignored in studies of technostress (stress induced by Information and Communication Technology (ICT) use). This study aimed at exploring individual and contextual antecedents to technostress among older ICT users. METHODS Online surveys with ICT users aged 60 years and above were conducted in 2016 (N = 537) and during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 (N = 407), examining technostress level, internet use patterns and sociodemographic background. The 2020 survey also assessed a COVID-19-related Hostile World Scenario (HWS). RESULTS The two samples had very similar background characteristics, but participants in 2020 were more experienced and their internet use was significantly more diverse and intense than that of their predecessors. The factors predicting technostress in both samples were poorer health, fewer years of use, fewer hours of use per typical week and smaller use repertoire. The technostress level in 2020 was significantly higher than that of 2016-a finding explained by the COVID-19-related HWS. CONCLUSIONS Individual antecedents hardly vary in the presence of significant contextual antecedents, but HWS may leave users with fewer resources to cope with the negative effects of technology use. Future research should explore additional contextual factors and interventions that may alleviate technostress among seniors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Galit Nimrod
- Department of Communication Studies and the Center for Multidisciplinary Research in Aging, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheba, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chopik WJ, Francis J. Partner influences on ICT use variety among middle-aged and older adults: The role of need for cognition. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2022; 126:107028. [PMID: 34658501 PMCID: PMC8516131 DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2021.107028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
This exploratory study examined both individual and dyadic predictors of variety of ICT use. Need for cognition is associated with engaging in a variety of intellectually stimulating practices and a prominent individual difference predictor of the types of ICTs people use. Participants were a subset of 542 heterosexual couples (N = 1084 individuals; 50% women; M age = 63.65; 83.9% Caucasian) from the Health and Retirement Study with access to the internet. Individuals high in need for cognition were more likely to use ICTs for a variety of reasons. Being married to someone high in need for cognition was associated with a greater variety of ICT ownership, ICTs for financial/transactional activities, and ICTs for miscellaneous reasons (e.g., research), although these effects were relatively small and the evidence for partner effects was relatively weak according to the distribution of p-values. Partner effects were not significant for social technology or internet-enabling ICTs; cross-partner interactions provided suggestive evidence for compensating for lower levels of individual need for cognition. Findings are discussed in relation to the relational and contextual determinants of ICT use in older adulthood.
Collapse
|
20
|
Pechrapa K, Yodmai K, Kittipichai W, Charupoonpol P, Suksatan W. Health Literacy among Older Adults during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study in an Urban Community in Thailand. Ann Geriatr Med Res 2021; 25:309-317. [PMID: 34735760 PMCID: PMC8749042 DOI: 10.4235/agmr.21.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study assessed health literacy (HL) and its associated factors among older adults during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. METHODS This cross-sectional study included older adults in urban communities in Thailand. We randomly selected a total of 421 older adults and performed multiple logistic regression analyses. RESULTS The average age of the respondents was 70.0±7.1 years. Most respondents were female, married, had a low education level (primary school or lower), were unemployed, and had sufficient income. We observed nonproficient and proficient HL levels in 56.1% and 43.9% of respondents, respectively. The factors influencing HL included attending healthcare services at a tertiary hospital, good accessibility to COVID-19 prevention materials and health information, and provision of a high level of social support from neighbors and health personnel. CONCLUSION The results of our study provide important information on the outcome of accessibility and social support among older adults in an urban community during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, access to health services, prevention equipment, and information was important for people at risk of HL and helped promote good behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirada Pechrapa
- Department of Family Health, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Korravarn Yodmai
- Faculty of Nursing, HRH Princess Chulabhorn College of Medical Science, Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wirin Kittipichai
- Department of Family Health, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Phithaya Charupoonpol
- Department of Family Health, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wanich Suksatan
- Faculty of Nursing, HRH Princess Chulabhorn College of Medical Science, Chulabhorn Royal Academy, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Seckin G, Hughes S. Patient-Reported Outcomes in a Nationally Representative Sample of Older Internet Users: Cross-sectional Survey. JMIR Aging 2021; 4:e16006. [PMID: 34822340 PMCID: PMC8663692 DOI: 10.2196/16006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rapid diffusion of the internet has decreased consumer reliance on health care providers for health information and facilitated the patients' ability to be an agent in control of their own health. However, empirical evidence is limited regarding the effects of health-related internet use among older adults, which is complicated by the proliferation of online health and medical sources of questionable scientific accuracy. OBJECTIVE We explore the effects of health-related internet use, education, and eHealth literacy on medical encounters and patient-reported outcomes. Patient-reported outcomes are categorized into two dimensions: (1) self-reported health problem and (2) affective distress (feeling worried and anxious) due to information obtained. We were particularly interested in whether education and eHealth literacy moderate the association between perceived strain in medical encounters and patient-reported outcomes. METHODS Our study sample consisted of online panel members who have used the internet as a resource for health information, randomly drawn from one of the largest probability-based online research panels. This paper specifically reports results obtained from older panel members (age≥60 years: n=194). First, we examined descriptive statistics and bivariate associations (Pearson correlations and independent samples t tests). We used hierarchical ordinary least squares regression analyses by running separate regressions for each patient-reported outcome. In model 1, we entered the main effects. In model 2, technology and medical encounter variables were included. Model 3 added the statistical interaction terms. RESULTS Age (β=-.17; P=.02), gender (β=-.22; P=.01), and medical satisfaction (β=-.28; P=.01) were significant predictors of self-reported health problems. Affective distress was positively predicted by gender (β=.13; P=.05) and satisfaction with medical encounters (β=.34; P<.001) but negatively predicted by education (β=-.18; P=.03) and eHealth literacy (β=-.32; P=.01). The association between experiencing a health problem in relation to health-related internet use and perception of strained medical encounters was greater among respondents with lower levels of education (β=-.55; P=.04). There was also a significant interaction between education and eHealth literacy in predicting the level of affective distress (β=-.60; P=.05), which indicated that higher levels of education predicted lower averages of feeling anxiety and worry despite lower eHealth literacy. Older women reported higher averages of affective distress (β=.13; P=.05), while older men reported higher averages of experiencing a self-reported health problem (β=-.22; P=.01). CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence for the effect of health-related internet use on patient-reported outcomes with implications for medical encounters. The results could be used to guide educational and eHealth literacy interventions for older individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gul Seckin
- Department of Sociology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, United States
| | - Susan Hughes
- Department of Sociology, Ouachita Baptist University, Arkadelphia, AR, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Li W, Ornstein KA, Li Y, Liu B. Barriers to learning a new technology to go online among older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Am Geriatr Soc 2021; 69:3051-3057. [PMID: 34409589 PMCID: PMC8446986 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.17433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has highlighted the importance of using information and communication technology (ICT) to address daily and healthcare needs. The barriers for older adults in the United States to learn a new technology to go online during the pandemic remain to be studied. METHODS Using data from the 2019-2020 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), a nationally representative survey of older Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older in the United States, we used multivariable logistic regression models to identify sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with learning a new technology to go online during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS Our sample represented 23,547,688 older adults nationally, of which the majority (60.2%) increased ICT use during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, most older adults (71.8%) did not report learning a new technology to go online. Those who did not learn a new technology to go online had less of an increase in ICT use than those who learned either with help or by themselves (50.7% vs. 78.4% or 89.2% respectively, p < 0.01). The odds of learning a new technology decreased with increasing age (aOR [95%CI] = 0.96 [0.94-0.98]), being male (aOR [95%CI] = 0.56 [0.45-0.72]), having lower than high school educational attainment (aOR [95%CI] = 0.38 [0.29-0.50]), decreasing income levels (aORs ranged from 0.28 to 0.54), and self-reported fair or poor general health (aOR [95%CI] = 0.65 [0.47-0.90]). CONCLUSION The identified sociodemographic and clinical factors could inform targeted intervention strategies to improve ICT use among older adults during the evolving COVID-19 pandemic and in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weixin Li
- Graduate School of Biomedical SciencesIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Katherine A. Ornstein
- Department of Geriatrics and Palliative MedicineIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Population Health Science and PolicyIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive ScienceIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Bian Liu
- Department of Population Health Science and PolicyIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Gan DRY, Best JR. Prior Social Contact and Mental Health Trajectories during COVID-19: Neighborhood Friendship Protects Vulnerable Older Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9999. [PMID: 34639300 PMCID: PMC8507683 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18199999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Social networking protects mental health during a crisis. Prior contact with social organizations, friends, and non-friend neighbors may be associated with better trajectories of loneliness, depression and subjective memory during COVID-19. Regression analysis was conducted using longitudinal data from a representative sample of n = 3105 US adults aged ≥55 in April-October 2020. Latent profile analysis was also conducted. Prior contact with friends (B = -0.075, p < 0.001), neighbors (B = -0.048, p = 0.007), and social organizations (B = -0.073, p < 0.001) predicted for better mental health during COVID-19. Three profiles were identified: Profile 1 had the best outcomes, with prior contact with social organizations (B = -0.052, p = 0.044) predicting decreasing loneliness. For Profile 2, prior 'meeting' contact with friends predicted decreasing loneliness (B = -0.075, p < 0.001) and better subjective memory (B = -0.130, p = 0.011). Conversely, prior contact with neighbors (B = -0.165, p = 0.010) predicted worsening loneliness among Profile 3. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a differential impact on the mental health trajectories of aging adults with social ties of different strengths. Stronger neighborhood networks are important to mitigate poor mental health outcomes among vulnerable older adults during a crisis. Older adults who are living alone and had relied on non-friend neighbors for social connectedness require additional community supports. Policy interventions are required to mitigate the mental health impact of future pandemics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R. Y. Gan
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC V6N 5K3, Canada;
| | - John R. Best
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC V6N 5K3, Canada;
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2A1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Li Z, Yang M. Internet Use and Depressive Symptoms Among Chinese Older Adults: The Mediation and Suppression Effects of Social Capital. Front Psychol 2021; 12:729790. [PMID: 34621224 PMCID: PMC8490646 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.729790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Exploring the social factors of mental health among older adults has become a hot topic. This study aimed to examine the relationships between internet use, social capital and depressive symptoms in older adults. Our data were derived from a sample of 6,840 respondents aged 60 and over in the 2018 wave of the China Family Panel Studies. The ordinary least square (OLS) regression results showed that both Internet use characteristics (including access, emotional activities, and online time) and social capital components (including contact with adult children and trust) were protective factors for the prevention of depressive symptoms among older adults. The generalized structural equation modeling (GSEM) results displayed that Internet use not only had a negatively direct effect on depressive symptoms, but also generated a negatively indirect effect on depressive symptoms by structural social capital (i.e., contact with adult children), suggesting that structural social capital mediated the above link. Conversely, the indirect effects of internet use on depressive symptoms via cognitive social capital (i.e., interpersonal trust and institutional trust) were significantly positive, indicating that the relationship between Internet use and depressive symptoms was suppressed by cognitive social capital. These findings address the gaps in previous research on older adults' mental health and have practical implications for policy makers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mengyao Yang
- Institute for Empirical Social Science Research, School of Humanities and Social Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Choi EY, Wisniewski KM, Zelinski EM. Information and Communication Technology Use in Older Adults: A Unidirectional or Bi-directional Association with Cognitive Function? COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2021; 121:106813. [PMID: 33986562 PMCID: PMC8112580 DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2021.106813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Previous research on older adults' information and communication technology (ICT) use has shown that cognitive function is linked with ICT use; however, the direction of influence has been yet to be determined. The current study examined the temporal sequence of ICT use and cognitive performance. Using three waves (2013, 2015, and 2017) from the National Health and Aging Trends Study, a total of 3,904 community-dwelling older adults aged 65 and above were selected for the analysis. Two cognitive domains were considered: episodic memory and executive function. Reciprocal 4-year lagged associations between ICT use and each cognitive domain were examined, controlling for covariates (age, gender, education, race/ethnicity, and depression). Greater use of ICT was significantly associated with memory performance, B (SE) = .19 (.01), p < .001, and executive function, B (SE) = .26 (.01), p < .001, in following years. Reciprocally, episodic memory predicted ICT use, B (SE) = .02 (.01), p < .001, 2 years later. However, the cross-lagged effect of executive functioning on ICT use was not significant, B (SE) = .00 (.01), p = .14. These results suggest the direction of the association between ICT use and cognitive performance might vary depending on the cognitive domain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eun Young Choi
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Christiansen L, Sanmartin Berglund J, Anderberg P, Cellek S, Zhang J, Lemmens E, Garolera M, Mayoral-Cleries F, Skär L. Associations Between Mobile Health Technology use and Self-rated Quality of Life: A Cross-sectional Study on Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment. Gerontol Geriatr Med 2021; 7:23337214211018924. [PMID: 34104685 PMCID: PMC8155754 DOI: 10.1177/23337214211018924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Quality of life (QoL) is affected even at early stages
in older adults with cognitive impairment. The use of mobile health (mHealth)
technology can offer support in daily life and improve the physical and mental
health of older adults. However, a clarification of how mHealth technology can
be used to support the QoL of older adults with cognitive impairment is needed.
Objective: To investigate factors affecting mHealth technology
use in relation to self-rated QoL among older adults with cognitive impairment.
Methods: A cross-sectional research design was used to analyse
mHealth technology use and QoL in 1,082 older participants. Baseline data were
used from a multi-centered randomized controlled trial including QoL, measured
by the Quality of Life in Alzheimer’s Disease (QoL-AD) Scale, as the outcome
variable. Data were analyzed using logistic regression models.
Results: Having moderately or high technical skills in using
mHealth technology and using the internet via mHealth technology on a daily or
weekly basis was associated with good to excellent QoL in older adults with
cognitive impairment. Conclusions: The variation in technical
skills and internet use among the participants can be interpreted as an obstacle
for mHealth technology to support QoL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Peter Anderberg
- Blekinge Institute of Technology, Karlskrona, Sweden.,University of Skövde, Sweden
| | - Selim Cellek
- Anglia Ruskin University, Bishop Hall Lane, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Jufen Zhang
- Anglia Ruskin University, Bishop Hall Lane, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Evi Lemmens
- University Colleges Leuven-Limburg, Genk, Belgium
| | - Maite Garolera
- Brain, Cognition and Behavior-Clinical Research, Consorci Sanitari de Terrassa, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Lisa Skär
- Blekinge Institute of Technology, Karlskrona, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gallo HB, Marshall LW, Levy-Storms L, Wilber KH, Loukaitou-Sideris A. Voices of Experience: What Do Low-Income Older Adults Tell Us About Mobility, Technology, and Social Participation? J Appl Gerontol 2021; 41:571-580. [PMID: 34009052 DOI: 10.1177/07334648211012530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mobility and technology can facilitate in-person and virtual social participation to help reduce social isolation, but issues exist regarding older adults' access, feasibility, and motivation to use various forms of mobility and technology. This qualitative study explores how a diverse group of low-income, urban-living older adults use mobility and technology for social participation. We conducted six focus groups (N = 48), two each in English, Spanish, and Korean at a Los Angeles senior center. Three major themes emerged from thematic analysis: using technology for mobility; links between mobility and social participation; and technology-mediated social participation. Cost, perceived safety, (dis)ability, and support from family and friends were related to mobility and technology use. This study demonstrates the range of mobility and technology uses among older adults and associated barriers. The findings can help establish a pre-COVID-19 baseline on how to make mobility and technology more accessible for older adults at risk of isolation.
Collapse
|
28
|
Choi EY, Kim Y, Chipalo E, Lee HY. Does Perceived Ageism Widen the Digital Divide? And Does It Vary by Gender? THE GERONTOLOGIST 2021; 60:1213-1223. [PMID: 32539099 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnaa066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Existing literature presents a widening digital divide among older adults in addition to the consideration of the potential adverse impacts of ageism on internet use among the older adult population. Our study aimed to investigate (a) whether older adults' perceived ageism will be associated with their use of the internet and (b) whether the relationship between perceived ageism and internet use will be moderated by age groups and binary gender. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Using the data from the 2016 Health and Retirement Study, regression analyses were separately performed by gender. Two measures of perceived ageism were considered: (a) self-perception of aging and (b) perceived age discrimination. RESULTS Our findings suggested that greater exposure to ageism is generally related to less use of the internet. In addition, we found divergent patterns in the relationship between ageism and internet use by gender. For women, a lower level of internet use was predicted by more negative perceptions of aging, whereas men's internet use was associated with the experience of age discrimination. Furthermore, interaction effects between age groups and ageism varied across gender. The negative perception of aging was more strongly associated with less internet use in older women than middle-aged women. In comparison, the perceived age discrimination predicted less internet use in middle-aged men than older men. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings suggest that perceived ageism is significantly associated with internet use, and its association differs by gender.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eun Young Choi
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles
| | - Youngsun Kim
- Graduate School of East-West Medicine Science, Kyunghee University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Edson Chipalo
- School of Social Work, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
| | - Hee Yun Lee
- School of Social Work, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Digital Identity Levels in Older Learners: A New Focus for Sustainable Lifelong Education and Inclusion. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su122410657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Identifying the digital identity of older adults entails an essential step for their effective digital inclusion grounded in a holistic and sustainable human development in hyperconnected societies. This paper proposes a theoretical framework with three levels of digital identity based on motives and practices: location, action, and significance. This framework was used for designing an ad-hoc scale, tested with a sample of senior learners (n = 659) aged 55 and over involved in active aging programs in Adult Education in Spain. Participants filled out a five-point 20-item Likert scale measuring their agreement with the digital identity factors, along with two complementary scales evaluating their internet uses and motivations, as well as other items on living arrangements and perceived social support. Exploratory and confirmatory analyses showed a factorial structure with three levels of digital identity for older adults. The results revealed that active older adults with diverse motives for using the internet and variety in digital practices recorded a higher digital identity level, as did those who felt more isolated or with less social support. As a conclusion, the educational implications according to instrumental, social, and motivational variables are key for the progressive construction of a digital identity in older adults and for their digital inclusion.
Collapse
|
30
|
Poli A, Kelfve S, Klompstra L, Strömberg A, Jaarsma T, Motel-Klingebiel A. Prediction of (Non)Participation of Older People in Digital Health Research: Exergame Intervention Study. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e17884. [PMID: 32501275 PMCID: PMC7305561 DOI: 10.2196/17884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The use of digital technologies is increasing in health care. However, studies evaluating digital health technologies can be characterized by selective nonparticipation of older people, although older people represent one of the main user groups of health care. Objective We examined whether and how participation in an exergame intervention study was associated with age, gender, and heart failure (HF) symptom severity. Methods A subset of data from the HF-Wii study was used. The data came from patients with HF in institutional settings in Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Sweden. Selective nonparticipation was examined as resulting from two processes: (non)recruitment and self-selection. Baseline information on age, gender, and New York Heart Association Functional Classification of 1632 patients with HF were the predictor variables. These patients were screened for HF-Wii study participation. Reasons for nonparticipation were evaluated. Results Of the 1632 screened patients, 71% did not participate. The nonrecruitment rate was 21%, and based on the eligible sample, the refusal rate was 61%. Higher age was associated with lower probability of participation; it increased both the probabilities of not being recruited and declining to participate. More severe symptoms increased the likelihood of nonrecruitment. Gender had no effect. The most common reasons for nonrecruitment and self-selection were related to physical limitations and lack of time, respectively. Conclusions Results indicate that selective nonparticipation takes place in digital health research and that it is associated with age and symptom severity. Gender effects cannot be proven. Such systematic selection can lead to biased research results that inappropriately inform research, policy, and practice. Trial Registration ClinicalTrial.gov NCT01785121, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01785121
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Poli
- Division Ageing and Social Change, Department of Culture and Society, Linköping University, Norrköping, Sweden
| | - Susanne Kelfve
- Division Ageing and Social Change, Department of Culture and Society, Linköping University, Norrköping, Sweden.,Aging Research Center, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Leonie Klompstra
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Science, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Anna Strömberg
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Science, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Cardiology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Tiny Jaarsma
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Science, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Julius Centre, University Medical Center, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Andreas Motel-Klingebiel
- Division Ageing and Social Change, Department of Culture and Society, Linköping University, Norrköping, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Choi NG, DiNitto DM, Lee OE, Choi BY. Internet and Health Information Technology Use and Psychological Distress Among Older Adults With Self-Reported Vision Impairment: Case-Control Study. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e17294. [PMID: 32490851 PMCID: PMC7301257 DOI: 10.2196/17294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of older adults with vision impairment (VI) is growing. As health care services increasingly call for patients to use technology, it is important to examine internet/health information technology (HIT) use among older adults with VI. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine (1) the rates of internet/HIT use among older adults with VI compared with a matched sample of their peers without VI, (2) associations of VI with internet/HIT use, and (3) association of HIT use with psychological distress, assessed with the Kessler-6 screen. METHODS Data were obtained from the 2013 to 2018 US National Health Interview Survey. Older adults (aged ≥65 years) with self-reported VI were matched with older adults without VI, in a 1:1 ratio, based on age, sex, number of chronic medical conditions, and functional limitations (N=2866). Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression models, with sociodemographic factors, health conditions, health insurance type, and health care service use as covariates, were used to examine the research questions. RESULTS In total, 3.28% of older adults (compared with 0.84% of those aged 18-64 years) reported VI, and 25.7% of them were aged ≥85 years. Those with VI were significantly more socioeconomically disadvantaged than those without VI and less likely to use the internet (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.64, 95% CI0.49-0.83) and HIT (aOR 0.74, 95% CI 0.56-0.97). However, among internet users, VI was not associated with HIT use. HIT use was associated with lower odds of mild/moderate or serious psychological distress (aOR 0.62, 95% CI 0.43-0.90), whereas VI was associated with greater odds of mild/moderate or serious distress (aOR 1.84, 95% CI 1.36-2.49). Health care provider contacts were also associated with higher odds of internet or HIT use. CONCLUSIONS Compared with their matched age peers without VI, older adults with VI are less likely to use HIT because they are less likely to use the internet. Socioeconomically disadvantaged older adults experiencing a digital divide need help to access information and communication technologies through a fee waiver or subsidy to cover internet equipment and subscription and ensure continuous connectivity. Older adults with VI who do not know how to use the internet/HIT but want to learn should be provided instruction, with special attention to accessibility features and adaptive devices. Older adults with a low income also need better access to preventive eye care and treatment of VI as well as other health care services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Namkee G Choi
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Diana M DiNitto
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Othelia EunKyoung Lee
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| | - Bryan Y Choi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Schlomann A, Seifert A, Zank S, Woopen C, Rietz C. Use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Devices Among the Oldest-Old: Loneliness, Anomie, and Autonomy. Innov Aging 2020; 4:igz050. [PMID: 31911953 PMCID: PMC6938466 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igz050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives A good person–environment-fit has positive effects on well-being in old age. As digital technologies are an integral part of older adults’ environments, we predicted that the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) is associated with subjective well-being among the oldest-old. Specifically, we compared different user groups of ICT devices (nonusers, users of nonweb-connected ICT, users of web-connected ICT) and analyzed the relations among ICT use and three domains of subjective well-being (loneliness, anomie, autonomy). Research Design and Methods We performed a quantitative data analysis using data from the first representative state-wide survey study in North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany on quality of life and well-being of the oldest-old (n = 1,698; age range: 80–103; 9% long-term care). Multiple regression analyses were applied. Results The findings revealed that 25.9% of all individuals aged 80 years and older reported using web-connected ICT, in contrast to 38.5% who do not use ICT at all. Individuals who used web-connected ICT reported lower levels of loneliness and anomie, and higher levels of autonomy. These differences remain significant when controlling for indicators of social inclusion and individual characteristics. Discussion and Implications This study investigated an underexplored group in terms of ICT use, shedding light on the relationship between ICT use and subjective well-being. The oldest-old generally use ICT in their everyday life but an age-related digital divide still exists. To avoid negative consequences of nonuse digital infrastructures and technology training for older adults need to be established.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Schlomann
- Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Science, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Cologne, Germany
| | - Alexander Seifert
- University Research Priority Program "Dynamics of Healthy Aging", Switzerland.,Center of Competence for Gerontology, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Susanne Zank
- Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Science, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Cologne, Germany
| | - Christiane Woopen
- Cologne Center for Ethics, Rights, Economics, and Social Sciences of Health (CERES), Germany.,Research Unit Ethics, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Germany
| | - Christian Rietz
- Mixed Methods Research, Faculty of Educational and Social Sciences, Heidelberg University of Education, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ang S, Chen TY. Going Online to Stay Connected: Online Social Participation Buffers the Relationship Between Pain and Depression. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2019; 74:1020-1031. [PMID: 30260444 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gby109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Maintaining offline social participation (i.e., face-to-face social interaction) is key for healthy aging, but older adults who experience pain tend to restrict their social activity outside of the home. The onset of pain may set off a downward spiral where lowered social participation increases the risk of depression and vice versa. This study thus assesses whether online social participation (i.e., the use of online social network sites) moderates the effect of pain on depression, possibly functioning as a compensatory mechanism for reduced offline social participation for those in pain. METHOD Logistic regression models with a lagged dependent variable were used with panel data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study. An interaction term was included to assess the moderating effect of online social participation. RESULTS We find that online social participation buffers the detrimental effect of pain on depression. However, the effect of pain on online social participation was not statistically significant. DISCUSSION Findings show that online social participation can alleviate the negative effects of pain on mental well-being, and suggest that online social participation can supplement attempts to maintain offline social participation in later life, especially for those whose social activity may be limited by pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Ang
- Department of Sociology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.,Department of Population Studies Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.,Department of School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Tuo-Yu Chen
- Ageing Research Institute for Society and Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.,Center for Healthy Aging, Pennsylvania State University, University Park
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Hildebrand K, King-Shier K, Venturato L, Tompkins-Lane C. Will Women Interact with Technology to Understand Their Cardiovascular Risk and Potentially Increase Activity? Biores Open Access 2019; 8:94-100. [PMID: 31275734 PMCID: PMC6607047 DOI: 10.1089/biores.2018.0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) continues to be one of the leading causes of death for women. New approaches need to be identified that will enable women to recognize modifiable risk factors and target their efforts toward prevention. The objectives of this study were to (1) determine if women would access Vivametrica™ to assess CVD risk, (2) identify whether women would increase their physical activity as measured by their daily step counts, and (3) elicit women's opinions about using the system, prospective observational study design. Thirty-six English-speaking women aged 45-64 years of age, without physical disability, were recruited. Participants attended two clinic visits and were asked to wear a sensor-based activity monitor (Garmin Vivosmart® HR Wrist Tracker) for 12 weeks. Twenty-six (72%) of participants accessed Vivametrica for the course of the study. The median number of steps at baseline and at study completion was 9329 (range 5406-18,228) and 10,181 (range 5398-21,401), respectively. There was no significant change in number of steps taken by the participants for the study period (Z = -1.086, p = 0.278). The women's responses to the three statements (related to using Vivametrica) are represented on bar graphs. Women's opinions were important to provide an understanding about how they realized the technology. Women did access Vivametrica. Women did not significantly increase their step count. However, these women were achieving beyond sedentary levels of activity (>5000 steps/day). Although the change in steps was not statistically significant, it represents a median increase in daily steps of 9%, which is clinically important.
Collapse
|
35
|
Seçkin G, Hughes S, Yeatts D, Degreve T. Digital Pathways to Positive Health Perceptions: Does Age Moderate the Relationship Between Medical Satisfaction and Positive Health Perceptions Among Middle-Aged and Older Internet Users? Innov Aging 2019; 3:igy039. [PMID: 30648160 PMCID: PMC6328706 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igy039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives We explored the influence of e-trust, e-health literacy, e-health information seeking, and e-health information consumerism on medical satisfaction and positive health perceptions. Methods Our sample consisted of 499 randomly selected panel members aged 40–93. We employed hierarchical ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analyses and structural equation modeling (SEM). We examined the moderating role of age on the relationship between medical satisfaction and positive health perceptions. Results A significant interaction was found between age and medical satisfaction in predicting positive health perceptions in the OLS regression models. Medical satisfaction has a stronger association with self-care, health-related quality of life, and health status in the older adult sample as compared with the middle-aged sample. SEM analyses revealed that e-health information seeking has an indirect effect on both medical satisfaction and positive health perceptions through its significant direct effect on e-health information consumerism. Both e-trust and e-health consumerism were significant predictors. The e-health literacy and e-trust measures were significant predictors of the positive health perception index in the OLS regression models. Discussion The results contribute to our understanding of the potential benefits information technologies have for the health and well-being of computer-connected aging adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gül Seçkin
- Department of Sociology, University of North Texas, Denton
| | - Susan Hughes
- Department of Sociology, University of North Texas, Denton
| | - Dale Yeatts
- Department of Sociology, University of North Texas, Denton
| | - Thomas Degreve
- Department of Sociology, University of North Texas, Denton
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Cotten SR. Examining the Roles of Technology in Aging and Quality of Life. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2018; 72:823-826. [PMID: 28817928 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbx109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shelia R Cotten
- Department of Media and Information, Michigan State University, East Lansing
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Arcury TA, Sandberg JC, Melius KP, Quandt SA, Leng X, Latulipe C, Miller DP, Smith DA, Bertoni AG. Older Adult Internet Use and eHealth Literacy. J Appl Gerontol 2018; 39:141-150. [PMID: 30353776 DOI: 10.1177/0733464818807468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We examine Internet use and eHealth literacy among older adults (aged 55+ years) who were patients at clinics serving low-income populations. Participants included 200 minority and White adults who completed interviews based on a technology acceptance conceptual model. A total of 106 participants (53.0%) used the Internet; utilization was associated with personal characteristics (age, ethnicity, education, poverty), computer characteristics (number of e-devices, computer stress), social support (marital status), and health knowledge and attitudes (health literacy, medical decision making, health information sources), but not health status. Of the 106 participants who used the Internet, 52 (49.1%) had high eHealth literacy; eHealth literacy was associated with computer characteristics (number of e-devices, computer stress), and health knowledge and attitudes (medical decision making, health information sources). In multivariate analysis, computer stress maintained a significant inverse association with eHealth literacy. Educational interventions to help older adults successfully use technology and improve eHealth literacy must be identified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sara A Quandt
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Xiaoyan Leng
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Chiu CJ, Liu CW. Understanding Older Adult's Technology Adoption and Withdrawal for Elderly Care and Education: Mixed Method Analysis from National Survey. J Med Internet Res 2017; 19:e374. [PMID: 29101093 PMCID: PMC5694030 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.7401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elderly adults have comprised the fastest growing population adopting the Internet and computer technology over the past decade. However, how their experiences can shed light on elderly learning theory has not been examined much in the literature. OBJECTIVE This study investigated the factors and reasons associated with Internet adoption and withdrawal among older adults in Taiwan, and if any gender differences exist in this context. METHODS Data on participants aged 50 years and older from the nationally representative "Digital Opportunity Survey on Individuals and Households in Taiwan," who did not use the Internet in 2005 but adopted it in 2007 (n=1548), and those who reported using Internet in 2011 but then withdrew (n=1575), were analyzed. Factors and reasons associated with Internet adoption and withdrawal were examined using both quantitative and qualitative data. RESULTS Education level independently predicted Internet adoption behavior. With regard to the reasons for adoption, 66% (62/94) of participants indicated they started using the Internet to meet certain "needs"; for example, "keeping up with the world" (40.4%, 38/94) was listed as the most critical reason, followed by "job needs" (25.5%, 24/94). Older adults with a positive attitude toward the Internet with regard to increasing employment opportunities (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.0-3.9, P=.04) and the amount of information obtained (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.3-0.9, P=.01), as well as enriching recreation and entertainment (OR 0.6, 95% CI 0.4-0.9, P=.02), were less likely to withdraw from the Internet. The most common reason for Internet withdrawal was "psychological barriers" (eg, no available time, no meaningful use, or nothing worth reading/watching; 66.3%, 193/291), followed by "health barriers" (eg, eyes or body deteriorate with Internet use; 21.0%, 61/291). Although psychological barriers were the most important factor for Internet withdrawal for both men (72.5%, 100/138) and women (62%, 93/150), women were more likely than men to be affected by health barriers (26.0%, 39/150 vs 15.9%, 22/138; P=.004) and anthropic factors or accidental barriers (7.3%, 11/150 vs 2.9%, 4/138; P=.02). CONCLUSIONS Our findings that the need to keep up with the world associated with Internet adoption, and gender differences in reasons behind Internet withdrawal, such that women reported more health and anthropic factors or accidental barriers than man, may provide a new perspective that help health educators understand strategies that encourage older adults to keep learning, an important component of active aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Ju Chiu
- Institute of Gerontology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Wen Liu
- Institute of Physical Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|