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Zhang S, Zhou Z, Fingerman KL, Birditt KS. Loneliness and Mode of Social Contact in Late Life. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2024; 79:gbae115. [PMID: 39192673 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbae115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Social contact may alleviate loneliness, but little is known about within-person daily fluctuations in loneliness and social encounters. Older adults who feel lonely may engage in different modes of social contact (in-person, phone, digital). This study asked how different forms of contact are associated with loneliness throughout the day. METHODS Participants were 313 community-dwelling older adults (aged 65-90). They completed ecological momentary assessments reporting on their social encounters (e.g., type of social partner, mode of contact) and their loneliness every 3 hr for 5-6 days. We differentiated close social ties from ties not identified as close (i.e., weak ties). RESULTS We examined within-person effects using multilevel models. Findings revealed that momentary loneliness predicted a greater likelihood of phone contact in the next 3 hr. However, only in-person contact was associated with lower levels of loneliness. Regarding close and weak ties, momentary loneliness was associated with more in-person and phone contact with close ties, yet fewer in-person contacts with weak ties. In-person contact with both close and weak ties predicted lower levels of loneliness. DISCUSSION Although older adults engage in both in-person and phone contact when they feel lonely, it appears that only in-person contact may reduce loneliness. Digital contact was not widely adopted as a response to momentary loneliness among these older adults. Findings underscore older adults' willingness to maintain regular contact with close ties. Interventions addressing older adults who are lonely may consider innovative approaches to increase in-person contact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyang Zhang
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Zexi Zhou
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Karen L Fingerman
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Kira S Birditt
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Duan T, Cao Z, Huang X, Wang X, Sun T, Xu C. Association of social health with all-cause mortality and cause-specific mortality: A population-based cohort study. J Affect Disord 2024; 359:49-58. [PMID: 38768818 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.05.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies only focused on the individual social factors, without considering the overall social health patterns. The present study aimed to develop an integrated social health score (SHS) and investigate its associations with all-cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer mortality. METHODS A total of 330,716 participants (mean age 56.3 years; 52.4 % female) from UK Biobank was included between 2006 and 2010, and thereafter followed up to 2021. SHS was calculated by using information on social connections, social engagement and social support. Cox proportional hazards models was used to estimate the hazard ratios and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) of the association between SHS and all-cause and cause-specific mortality and the 4-way decomposition was used to quantify the mediating effect of lifestyle factors. RESULTS During a median follow-up period of 12.4 years, 37,897 death cases were recorded, including 4347 CVD and 10,380 cancer cases. The SHS was inversely associated with the risks of all-cause, CVD and cancer mortality in a dose-dependent manner (P for trend <0.001). The association between SHS with all-cause mortality was mediated by lifestyle factors including diet score, smoking status and alcohol consumption. CONCLUSION Integrated SHS was inversely associated with risks of all-cause, CVD and cancer mortality, and the associations were partially mediated by lifestyle factors. Our study highlights the importance of maintaining high levels of social health by jointly enhancing social involvement, expanding social networks, and cultivating enduring intimate relationships across the life course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingshan Duan
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhi Cao
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xianhong Huang
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohe Wang
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tao Sun
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Chenjie Xu
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China.
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Leger KA, Kim YK, Zhang S, Gao S, Fingerman KL. Daily Electronic Media Use and Sleep in Late Life. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2024; 79:gbae095. [PMID: 38845388 PMCID: PMC11226996 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbae095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Daily electronic media use, including television viewing and computer use, is common in older adulthood. Yet, increased electronic media usage may disrupt nightly sleep, leading to sleeping fewer hours and more sleep disruptions. The current study examined these relationships in older adulthood, as well as the potential buffering effect of having a regular sleep schedule. METHODS Older adults (N = 273) from the Daily Experiences and Well-Being Study (DEWS) completed 5-6 days of data collection where they answered questions at the beginning of the day about the previous night's sleep as well as questions throughout the day about daily electronic media use. They also wore Actical accelerometers to capture sleep regularity. RESULTS Older adults reported sleeping fewer hours and having more sleep disturbances on days when they reported more instances of computer use. Sleep regularity moderated the daily association between TV viewing and sleep disturbances such that daily TV viewing was associated with more sleep complaints only for older adults who had less regular sleep patterns. However, sleep regularity no longer moderated this association when accounting for napping behavior. DISCUSSION These findings provide evidence that older adults sleep worse after days when they engage in more electronic media use. The association with TV viewing with sleep disturbances on any given day is somewhat mitigated by engaging in regular sleep patterns. Researchers discuss the importance of assessing electronic media use and sleep in daily life as the role of sleep regularity may be a modifiable protective factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate A Leger
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Yijung K Kim
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Shiyang Zhang
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Sibo Gao
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Karen L Fingerman
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
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Kricheldorff C, Doll J. [Geragogic support for status passages in old age : Challenge and opportunity of a new care for older people]. Z Gerontol Geriatr 2024:10.1007/s00391-024-02327-y. [PMID: 38955840 DOI: 10.1007/s00391-024-02327-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the continuous increase in the average age, the temporal perspective for the phase of old age is also significantly expanding. This results in an individual need for reorientation for the aging person with respect to a meaningful shaping of this long period of time, which as a progressive process leads to the end of life. In the context of the status passages to the third, fourth and fifth ages, there is a special relevance for this; however, the so-called care for older people (§ 71 Social Security Code, SGB XII) has so far largely ignored these important aspects. Rethinking in a needs-oriented way, the facilitation of the necessary reorientation of life in old age through learning and education must therefore be given greater consideration. AIM OF THE ARTICLE The article gives a necessary update of the existing care for older persons, which takes greater account of a needs-oriented design of a society of long life. Furthermore, the role and significance of the necessary educational processes in the sense of geragogy are outlined and also how they can contribute to successful aging. MATERIAL AND METHODS With reference to current research work and publications on the topic, the possibilities of geragogic support as a challenge and opportunity for new care for older persons are worked out. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The learning and educational processes of the aging person can be aimed at various concerns, if nothing else differentiated according to the challenges associated with the social age categories, i.e., the third, fourth or fifth age; however, learning and educational processes also address very different dimensions, each focusing on the question of how older people can tackle and cope with such necessary adaptation and change processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Kricheldorff
- Beratung - Prozessbegleitung - Training, Beratung - Prozessbegleitung - Training, Barbarastr. 7, 79106, Freiburg, Deutschland.
| | - Johannes Doll
- Bundesuniversität Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brasilien
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Meyer-Wyk F, Wurm S. The role of social network diversity in self-perceptions of aging in later life. Eur J Ageing 2024; 21:20. [PMID: 38926182 PMCID: PMC11208383 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-024-00815-z] [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] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
While the link between self-perceptions of aging (SPA) and healthy aging is well established, less is known about the association between social factors and SPA. The present study investigated whether higher social network diversity is associated with more positive and less negative SPA and whether this association is moderated by age. We examined cross-sectional data from the German Ageing Survey of 2008 (DEAS; N = 6205, 40-85 years, 49.5% female). Network diversity was assessed as the number of social roles in an individual's network (such as spouse, friend and colleague). Three domains of SPA were measured using the Aging-Related Cognitions Scale (AgeCog): ongoing development (positive SPA), social losses (negative SPA) and physical losses (negative SPA). We conducted multiple linear regression models and tested for a moderator effect of age using an interaction term of age and network diversity. Results showed that at higher ages older adults with higher network diversity reported more positive SPA related to ongoing development and more negative SPA related to social losses than those with less diverse networks, indicating that age has a moderating effect. We found no association between network diversity and negative SPA related to physical losses and no indication that age was relevant to this relationship. The present study adds to evidence on the role of social networks in SPA. Our findings suggest that in certain SPA domains and depending on age, network diversity is related to both more positive and more negative SPA, which emphasizes the importance of considering domain-specific SPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frauke Meyer-Wyk
- Department for Prevention Research and Social Medicine, Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy.
| | - Susanne Wurm
- Department for Prevention Research and Social Medicine, Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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Rassaby M, Shakya HB, Fowler JH, Oveis C, Sieber WJ, Jain S, Stein MB, Taylor CT. Application of an egocentric social network approach to examine changes in social connections following treatment for anxiety and depression: A novel measurement tool for clinical trials research? Soc Sci Med 2024; 350:116914. [PMID: 38696938 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116914] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
The epidemic of loneliness and social isolation has been recognized as a public health crisis warranting the same prioritization as other public health issues today, such as obesity, substance use disorders, and tobacco use. Social disconnection is particularly prevalent and disabling among individuals with anxiety and depression, yet it is inadequately evaluated and addressed in most clinical psychology treatment research. Studies generally employ global measures of perceived connectedness, loneliness, or relationship satisfaction, limiting understanding about elements of one's social network that may change with treatment. This study examined changes in the degree (number of people nominated) and quality of one's social network from pre-to post-treatment using an egocentric social network approach in 59 adults (mean age = 30.8 years, range = 18 to 54) with clinically elevated anxiety or depression who were randomized to a cognitive and behavioral positive valence treatment versus waitlist. Participants (egos) named people in their lives (alters) with whom they discussed important issues or spent free time. For each alter, participants rated how close they felt, how close they thought the alter felt to them, and how frequently they communicated. Linear regressions, which included treatment group as a predictor, revealed no group differences in changes in network degree, perceived alter feelings of closeness, or communication frequency, despite prior findings from this sample indicating larger increases in perceived global connectedness in the treatment group. Unexpectedly, the control group reported a greater increase in perceived closeness to alters. Post-hoc analyses revealed this was explained by the treatment group identifying more distal social ties (e.g., extended family, colleagues, roommates) as alters following treatment - an outcome positively associated with global improvements in connectedness. This proof-of-concept study suggests egocentric social network surveys may provide unique information on treatment-related changes in social functioning. Suggestions are provided for adaptations to facilitate application of social network surveys to mental health treatment research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Rassaby
- San Diego State University/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Sonia Jain
- University of California San Diego, United States
| | - Murray B Stein
- San Diego State University/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, United States; University of California San Diego, United States
| | - Charles T Taylor
- San Diego State University/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, United States; University of California San Diego, United States.
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Malka M, Edelstein OE, Huss E, Hillel Lavian R. Boosting Resilience: Photovoice as a Tool for Promoting Well-Being, Social Cohesion, and Empowerment Among the Older Adult During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Appl Gerontol 2024:7334648241234488. [PMID: 38390846 DOI: 10.1177/07334648241234488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This paper examines how older adults who participated in an online photovoice-based group intervention program reported their experience. In a qualitative-phenomenological study, in which 13 older-adult people participated, data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and analyzed through content analysis. The findings point to three central themes: a) Challenges-technical difficulties, difficulties in finding a subject for photography, investing time in photography, and an emotional-intellectual effort to put their experience into photography; b) Growth: New knowledge and skills-acquiring new knowledge, acquiring skills, experiencing skills regardless of age, and empowerment; c) Meaning-reflexivity, the ability to project feelings onto images, connection to the outside world, mindfulness, ability to choose, creativity, and critical consciousness. The findings share the way in which the use of creative visual engagement with photography contributed to coping with various challenges and enabled various gains within the process among the older-adult participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menny Malka
- Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | | | - Ephrat Huss
- Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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8
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McMahon SK, Lewis BA, Guan W, Wang Q, Hayes SM, Wyman JF, Rothman AJ. Effect of Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Behavior Change Strategies on Physical Activity Among Older Adults: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e240298. [PMID: 38421648 PMCID: PMC10905305 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.0298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Despite guidelines that recommend physical activity (PA), little is known about which types of behavior change strategies (BCSs) effectively promote sustained increases in PA in older adults who are insufficiently active. Objective To determine whether intrapersonal BCSs (eg, goal setting) or interpersonal BCSs (eg, peer-to-peer sharing or learning) combined with the Otago Exercise Program (17 strength and balance exercises and a walking program that are learned and individually tailored, with instruction to perform 3 times per week at home or location of choice) and a wearable PA monitor help older adults sustain increases in their PA. Design, Setting, and Participants This 2 × 2 factorial randomized clinical trial (Community-Based Intervention Effects on Older Adults' Physical Activity) of community-dwelling older adults 70 years or older with PA levels below minimum national PA guidelines was conducted in urban community centers. Dates of enrollment were from November 17, 2017, to June 15, 2021, with final follow-up assessments completed on September 2, 2022. Interventions Participants were randomized to intrapersonal (eg, goal setting) BCSs, interpersonal (eg, problem-solving with peer-to-peer sharing and learning) BCSs, intrapersonal and interpersonal BCSs, or an attention control group. All interventions included a PA monitor and 8 weekly small-group meetings with discussion, practice, and instructions to implement the exercise program and relevant BCSs independently between meetings and after the intervention. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was daily minutes of objectively measured total PA (light, moderate, or vigorous intensities) averaged over 7 to 10 days, measured at baseline and after the intervention at 1 week, 6 months, and 12 months. Results Among 309 participants (mean [SD] age, 77.4 [5.0] years; 240 women [77.7%]), 305 (98.7%) completed the intervention, and 302 (97.7%) had complete data. Participants receiving PA interventions with interpersonal BCS components exhibited greater increases in total PA than did those who did not at 1 week (204 vs 177 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, 27.1 [95% CI, 17.2-37.0]; P < .001), 6 months (195 vs 175 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, 20.8 [95% CI, 10.0-31.6]; P < .001), and 12 months (195 vs 168 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, 27.5 [95% CI, 16.2-38.8]; P < .001) after the intervention. Compared with participants who did not receive interventions with intrapersonal BCS components, participants who received intrapersonal BCSs exhibited no significant changes in total PA at 1 week (192 vs 190 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, 1.8 [95% CI, -8.6 to 12.2]; P = .73), 6 months (183 vs 187 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, -3.9 [95% CI, -15.0 to 7.1]; P = .49), or 12 months (177 vs 186 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, -8.8 [95% CI, -20.5 to 2.9]; P = .14) after the intervention. Interactions between intrapersonal and interpersonal BCSs were not significant. Conclusions and Relevance In this randomized clinical trial, older adults with low levels of PA who received interpersonal BCSs, the exercise program, and a PA monitor exhibited significant increases in their PA for up to 12 months after the intervention. Intrapersonal BCSs elicited no significant PA changes and did not interact with interpersonal BCSs. Our findings suggest that because effects of a PA intervention on sustained increases in older adults' PA were augmented with interpersonal but not intrapersonal BCSs, approaches to disseminating and implementing the intervention should be considered. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03326141.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Beth A. Lewis
- School of Kinesiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | - Weihua Guan
- School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | - Qi Wang
- School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | | | - Jean F. Wyman
- School of Nursing, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
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Park NS, Jang Y, Chung S, Chiriboga DA, Haley WE. Relationship of Living and Eating Arrangements to Mental Distress Among Older Korean Immigrants: Gender Difference in the Mediating Role of Loneliness. Res Aging 2024; 46:153-166. [PMID: 37820385 DOI: 10.1177/01640275231206482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
This study examined how different living/eating arrangements were associated with loneliness and depressive symptoms among older Korean immigrants. We examined gender differences considering: (1) patterns of living/eating arrangements and their relations with loneliness and mental distress and (2) indirect effect of living/eating arrangements on mental distress through feeling lonely. Data were drawn from the Study of Older Korean Americans that surveyed older; Korean immigrants during 2017-2018 (N = 2150). Living/eating arrangements were classified in the combination of four categores. Using the PROCESS macro, we tested gender differences in the mediation effect of loneliness on the relationship between living/eating arrangements and mental distress while controlling for background/health characteristics and social connectedness-related variables. The mediating role of loneliness was manifested differentially between men and women. By administering simple measures of living/eating arrangements, practitioners could potentially identify key targets to improve social and mental well-being, particularly among older immigrants with limited resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Sook Park
- School of Social Work, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Yuri Jang
- Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, California, CA, USA
- Department of Social Welfare, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Soondool Chung
- Department of Social Welfare, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - David A Chiriboga
- Department of Child and Family Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - William E Haley
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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Mafla AC, Herrera-López M, Dorado-Pantoja GT, López-Ruano KJ, Saa-Valentierra L, Gallardo-Pino C, Schwendicke F. Oral Health Literacy and Tooth Loss and Replacement in Older Adults at a University Dental Clinic in Colombia. Health Lit Res Pract 2024; 8:e21-e28. [PMID: 38329842 PMCID: PMC10849777 DOI: 10.3928/24748307-20240121-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral health literacy (OHL) is the ability of individuals to obtain, process, and understand oral health information and services, allowing them to make appropriate oral health decisions. The association between OHL and tooth loss and replacement have not been well understood. OBJECTIVES We aimed to determine the association between OHL and tooth loss and replacement in a Colombia population. METHODS A cross-sectional study of 384 older adults age 65 to 89 years from Pasto, Colombia was carried out. The number of lost and replaced teeth was assessed intraorally; sociodemographic and prosthetic characteristics were collected, and the Health Literacy in Dentistry questionnaire was used to evaluate OHL. Generalized linear models were estimated to assess associations between independent variables (including OHL) and the number of lost and replaced teeth. KEY RESULTS There were 224 (58.3%) men and 160 (41.7%) women. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) number of lost and replaced teeth was 27.78 (4.03) and 12.53 (9.89), respectively. One hundred fifty five (40.4%) individuals had full removable dental protheses, 122 (31.8%) partial removable dental protheses, 68 (17.7%) fixed prosthetics, and 36 (9.4%) dental implants. OHL was 33.29 (6.59) and significantly positively associated with the number of replaced teeth (β = 0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.52-0.78, p < .001), but not with lost teeth. CONCLUSIONS OHL may foster individuals' capabilities to replace lost teeth, although we did not find it associated with reduced tooth loss, likely as tooth loss was highly common in this older population. [HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice. 2024;8(1):e21-e28.].
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cristina Mafla
- Address correspondence to Ana Cristina Mafla, DDS, MSPH, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Calle 18 No. 45 – 150, Pasto, Colombia;
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Vijayan B, Govil D, Sahoo H. Effect of Autonomy and Physical Activity on Self-Rated Health of Older Adults in India: Gendered Analysis Using Structural Equation Models. Exp Aging Res 2023:1-18. [PMID: 37953538 DOI: 10.1080/0361073x.2023.2278982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
The gendered expectations and responsibilities placed upon women can impede their ability to participate in social activities and engage in physical leisure pursuits, ultimately having a negative impact on their health. Our study investigates the mechanisms through which gender influences individuals' engagement with physical activity during free time and how this relates to self-rated health outcomes among adults aged 45 years or older living in India. Using cross-sectional analysis and Structural Equation Modelling, we analyzed data stratified by gender and age from the Longitudinal Ageing Study of India to examine these conceptual pathways. We found that compared to men, women face greater limitations related to decision-making autonomy, experience more functional impairments, have weaker social networks that provide less support for engaging in leisure-time physical activity, leading them to report lower levels of overall wellbeing than men. Further analyses demonstrated distinct pathways through which each gender's level of social network connectivity shapes behavior - strong connections increase opportunities for women specifically to engage positively with both peers and physically active pursuits supporting overall wellness goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bevin Vijayan
- School of Development, Azim Premji University, Bhopal, India
| | - Dipti Govil
- Department of Family and Generations, International Institute for Population Sciences, Deonar, Mumbai, India
| | - Harihar Sahoo
- Department of Family and Generations, International Institute for Population Sciences, Deonar, Mumbai, India
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12
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Ma X, Feng W, Shi C, Wang Y, Gao Q, Cai W, An H, Jing Q, Gao R, Ma A. Association between the location of social medical insurance and social integration among China's elderly rural migrants: a nationwide cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2108. [PMID: 37884916 PMCID: PMC10604806 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16956-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Universal social medical insurance coverage is viewed as a major factor in promoting social integration, but insufficient evidence exists on the integration of elderly rural migrants (ERM), generally aged 60 years and above, in low- and middle-income countries. To address this problem, we explore the relationship between the location of social medical insurance (SMI), such as a host city, and social integration in the context of Chinese ERM. METHODS This study is based on data from the 2017 National Internal Migrant Dynamic Monitoring Survey in China. The study participants were Chinese ERM. An integration index was constructed to measure the degree of social integration in a multi-dimensional manner using a factor analysis method. This study used descriptive statistics and one-way analysis of variance to explore the differences in social integration between ERM with SMI from host cities and hometowns. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was used to test the correlation between SMI location and social integration level in the overall sample. Finally, the results were verified by propensity score matching. RESULTS It was found that 606 (18.2%) of the insured ERM chose host city SMI, while 2727 (81.8%) chose hometown SMI. The level of social integration was lower among ERM with hometown SMI (-1.438 ± 32.795, F = 28.311, p ≤ 0.01) than those with host city SMI (6.649 ± 34.383). Among the dimensions of social integration, social participation contributed more than other factors, with a contribution rate of 45.42%. Host city SMI increased the probability of the social integration index by 647% among ERM (k-nearest neighbor caliper matched (n = 4, caliper = 0.02), with a full sample ATT value of 6.47 (T = 5.32, SE = 1.48, p < 0.05)). CONCLUSIONS ERM with host city SMI have a higher social integration level than those with hometowns SMI. That is, host city SMI positively affects social integration. Policymakers should focus on the access of host city SMI for ERM. Removing the threshold of host city SMI coverage for ERM can promote social integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojie Ma
- School of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
| | - Wenjia Feng
- School of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
| | - Chaojun Shi
- School of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- School of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
| | - Qianqian Gao
- School of Management, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China.
- Institute of Public Health Crisis Management, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Weiqin Cai
- School of Management, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China.
- Institute of Public Health Crisis Management, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China.
| | - Hongqing An
- School of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
- Institute of Public Health Crisis Management, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Qi Jing
- School of Management, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
- Institute of Public Health Crisis Management, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Runguo Gao
- School of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
- Institute of Public Health Crisis Management, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Anning Ma
- School of Public Health, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
- Institute of Public Health Crisis Management, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
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13
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Liu W, Zheng R, Zhang Y, Zhang W. Differences in the influence of daily behavior on health among older adults in urban and rural areas: evidence from China. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1259204. [PMID: 37869199 PMCID: PMC10587611 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1259204] [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: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As the population of older adult in China keeps growing, the degree of aging is becoming increasingly serious and the health of older adults is a growing concern. Comparing the personal characteristics and health levels of urban and rural older adults and determining the relationship between these factors are of great significance in maintaining their health. In addition, exploring how these relationships differ between urban and rural areas is important. Method This study conducted a literature review to examine the impact of various factors on the physical and mental health of older adults in urban and rural areas in China. Moreover, based on cross-sectional data from the 2017 Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS), urban-rural differences in the factors' degree of influence on the perceived health of older adults were studied using multiple logistic regression. Results Regular physical exercise had a powerful protective effect on urban older adults' physical and mental health, whereas regular participation in social activities had a positive impact on rural older adults' health. Low income, low educational level, low social trust, lack of a partner, and having more than one child negatively affected the physical health of rural older people. Low socioeconomic status had a negative impact on rural people's health both in mind and body. Overall, the rural adults' health status was found to be relatively low and deserves more attention. Conclusion This study demonstrated that older people's physical and mental health levels can be significantly affected by the frequency of daily activities and individual and family characteristics. Furthermore, urban-rural differences were observed. These findings could provide feasible suggestions for governments, communities, and older adults' family members to help alleviate health inequality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizhong Liu
- Business School, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Research Center for Government Governance and Public Policy of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Renjie Zheng
- Business School, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Research Center for Government Governance and Public Policy of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Business School, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Research Center for Government Governance and Public Policy of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Wang Zhang
- Business School, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Research Center for Government Governance and Public Policy of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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14
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Yu K, Liang J, Tung YH, Zhang M, Wu S, Chi I. Social network and mental health of Chinese immigrants in affordable senior housing during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed-methods study. Aging Ment Health 2023; 27:1956-1964. [PMID: 37212623 PMCID: PMC10529124 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2213646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Chinese immigrant older adults who live in affordable housing are at high risk of experiencing social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, which can affect their mental health. Using a triangulation mixed-methods approach, this study describes Chinese immigrant older adults' social network, mental health status, and their associations during the pandemic. METHODS Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 26 Chinese immigrant older adults from June to August 2021. The structure and characteristics of participants' social networks were assessed with a name-generating approach. Mental health status was self-reported with Geriatric Depression Scale and UCLA loneliness scale. RESULTS This sample (mean age = 78.12, 69.23% female), on average, had 5.08 social ties in their network, and 58% were family ties. Participants reported decreased social contact, family and friends interaction patterns specific to immigrants, and constantly being in a low mood and bored. Having closer relationships with others and maintaining the same or higher contact frequency after COVID-19 onset was associated with fewer depressive symptoms. Resilience from religious beliefs, neighbors as role models, and wisdom learned from past experiences were reported. CONCLUSION Knowledge built in this study can inform respondence to future crises like the COVID-19 pandemic in affordable housing settings serving older immigrant populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Yu
- NIA-Layton Aging and Alzheimer's Disease Center, and Oregon Center for Aging & Technology, Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jiaming Liang
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yi-Hsuan Tung
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mutian Zhang
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Shinyi Wu
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Viterbi School of Engineering, Daniel J. Epstein Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Iris Chi
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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15
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Li X, Ma Z, Zhang X, Ma X, Pi Z. Do daily interaction patterns differ between empty nesters and non-empty nesters? The role of different interaction partners in a Chinese sample. Psych J 2023; 12:572-583. [PMID: 37385596 DOI: 10.1002/pchj.648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
The empty nest is a phase of life that most parents will experience when their children grow up and leave home. However, little attention has been given to changes that take place in empty nesters' daily patterns of interaction. This study aimed to examine the differences between empty nesters and non-empty nesters in relation to their daily interactions and the affect of various social partners. A total of 208 participants were recruited via convenience sampling; they were asked to record their daily interactions using the Rochester Interaction Record and to rate their affect after each interaction using the Positive Affect-Negative Affect Scale. The results showed that daily interactions were related to a higher increase of positive affect in empty nesters than in non-empty nesters when interactions were with adult children. In contrast, daily interactions of non-empty nesters were related to a higher decrease in negative affect when the interactions were with friends, neighbors, and strangers. These findings indicate that the patterns of daily interactions differ between empty nesters and non-empty nesters. Specifically, the daily interactions of empty nesters were seen to be more related to a higher increase in positive affect, whereas the daily interactions of non-empty nesters were seen to be more related to a higher decrease in negative affect. This study showed the differences in daily interaction patterns between empty and non-empty nesters across diverse social partners. The findings on the daily interaction patterns have some implications for older adults: (1) empty nesters can improve daily interaction with adult children, relatives, and colleagues for a higher positive affect; (2) non-empty nesters can improve daily interactions with friends, neighbors, and strangers to relieve their negative affect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiying Li
- MOE Key laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zepei Ma
- MOE Key laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xingyu Zhang
- MOE Key laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaohui Ma
- Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Yellow River Conservancy Technical Institute, Kaifeng, China
| | - Zhongling Pi
- MOE Key laboratory of Modern Teaching Technology, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
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16
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Lee S, Ng YT, Charles ST, Almeida DM, Fingerman KL. Who Has Active Lifestyles? Sociodemographic and Personality Correlates of Activity Diversity in Two Samples of Adults. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2023; 78:659-669. [PMID: 36512323 PMCID: PMC10066737 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbac192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Activity diversity-an index of active lifestyles that captures variety (number) and evenness (consistency) in activity engagement-is known to support health in adulthood. However, less is known who has higher or lower activity diversity, information that helps identify individuals who may be at greater risk for poor health. This article examined sociodemographic characteristics and Big Five personality traits that may be associated with activity diversity. METHODS We used 2 independent project samples (nsample1 = 2,699; nsample2 = 301). Sample 1 included U.S. national adults in a wide age range (25-84). Sample 2 included U.S. community-dwelling older adults (age = 65-89). Each study asked about different types of activity engagement using surveys. The activity diversity index was calculated in each sample, using Shannon's entropy method. RESULTS In Sample 1, older adults, women, non-Hispanic White individuals, married/partnered individuals, and those with higher education and fewer functional limitations had higher activity diversity. Additionally, higher conscientiousness, higher extraversion, and lower neuroticism were each associated with higher activity diversity after controlling for sociodemographic factors. Extraversion and neuroticism remained significant in the younger group (age < 65) of Sample 1, but only extraversion was a significant factor associated with activity diversity in the older group (age ≥ 65). The results in the older group were generally replicated in Sample 2, such that higher extraversion in older adults was consistently associated with higher activity diversity independent of the strong correlates of sex, education, and functional limitations. DISCUSSION Findings were discussed in terms of age-specific associations between sociodemographic and personality characteristics and activity diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soomi Lee
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Yee To Ng
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Susan T Charles
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - David M Almeida
- Human Development and Family Studies, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Karen L Fingerman
- Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
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17
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Leger KA, Charles ST, Brown CJ, Fingerman KL. Physical Activity and Daily Stress Processes in Older Adulthood. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2023; 78:20-29. [PMID: 35965484 PMCID: PMC9890923 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbac113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Older adults who are physically active report lower levels of stress. Less is known about the links between physical activity and exposure and reactivity to stressful events in daily life. The current study examined within-person associations between actigraphy-assessed daily physical activity and exposure and affective reactivity to naturally occurring interpersonal stressors. METHOD Older adults (N = 180) from the Daily Experiences and Well-being Study completed ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) every 3 hr for 5-6 days where they reported negative affect throughout the day and interpersonal tensions at the end of the day. They also wore Actical accelerometers to capture physical activity. RESULTS Older adults reported greater numbers of interpersonal stressors on days when they spent less time being sedentary and engaged in more light physical activity. On days when older adults experienced more interpersonal stressors, they reported higher levels of negative affect, but this association was attenuated when they were more physically active that day. DISCUSSION Physical activity may bolster older adults' capabilities to manage affective responses to interpersonal stressors in a more successful way. These findings underscore the importance of assessing physical activity and stressful events in daily life and have implications for both physical and psychological well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate A Leger
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Susan T Charles
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Colette J Brown
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Karen L Fingerman
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, the University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
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18
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Lindner S, Stieger M, Rüegger D, Kowatsch T, Flückiger C, Mehl MR, Allemand M. How Is Variety in Daily Life Related to the Expression of Personality States? An Ambulatory Assessment Study. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PERSONALITY 2023. [DOI: 10.1177/08902070221149593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
People differ in the way they live their daily lives. For some people, daily life is characterized by multiple and diverse experiences, while others have more stability and routine in their lives. However, little is known about how variety in daily life relates to the expression of personality states. The present study examined within-person associations between variety in social partners, places, and activities with state expression. Data came from an ambulatory assessment study ( N = 962, Mage = 25.49) with four assessments per day over a period of six consecutive days. The results of the multilevel modeling analyses suggest that variety in daily life is associated with some, but not all, state expressions. For instance, on days when participants experienced a greater variety in activities, they reported being less neurotic and conscientious, but also more agreeable. In addition, the links between all social partners, places, and activities with the expression of the state were examined simultaneously to obtain more detailed information on the multifaceted nature of situation-state expression links. We conclude that variety in daily life has both theoretical and empirical relevance for the expression of personality states.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mirjam Stieger
- Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Waltham, MA, USA
| | | | - Tobias Kowatsch
- ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- University of St Gallen, St.Gallen, Switzerland
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19
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Goldman A, York Cornwell E. Stand by Me: Social Ties and Health in Real-Time. SOCIUS : SOCIOLOGICAL RESEARCH FOR A DYNAMIC WORLD 2023; 9:10.1177/23780231231171112. [PMID: 37822581 PMCID: PMC10566299 DOI: 10.1177/23780231231171112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Sociological research has documented myriad associations between individuals' overall social connectedness and health, but rarely considers the shorter-term dynamics of social life that may underlie these associations. We examine how being with others ("social accompaniment") is associated with momentary experiences of symptoms, drawing smartphone-based ecological momentary assessments (N=12,720) collected from 342 older adults from the Chicago Health and Activity in Real Time study. We find that patterns of social accompaniment are distinct from global measures of social integration such as network size. Older adults who are in the company of a friend or neighbor are significantly less likely to experience momentary fatigue and stress, even after accounting for overall measures of social integration. These results suggest that social accompaniment has unique implications for short-term health outcomes. New theoretical perspectives and empirical analyses are needed to better understand the dynamic nature of everyday social accompaniment and its longer-term implications for well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Goldman
- Department of Sociology, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, 424 McGuinn Hall, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
| | - Erin York Cornwell
- Department of Sociology, Cornell University, 390 Uris Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853
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20
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Associations between perceptions of relationship quality and markers of inflammation and insulin resistance among couples coping with cancer. J Cancer Surviv 2022:10.1007/s11764-022-01299-5. [DOI: 10.1007/s11764-022-01299-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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21
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Hughes TF, Ran X, Fang F, Jacobsen E, Snitz BE, Chang CCH, Ganguli M. Psychosocial implications of early COVID-19 restrictions on older adults in a small-town region in Southwestern, Pennsylvania (USA). Int Psychogeriatr 2022:1-10. [PMID: 36352761 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610222000977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The restrictions put in place in 2020 to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 limited or eliminated social connections that are vital for psychosocial well-being. The objectives of this research were to examine the impact of early pandemic-related restrictions on feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety as well as social activity disruption and their concomitant associations in a sample of community-dwelling older adults residing in a small-town region in the USA. DESIGN AND SETTING Cross-sectional data collected from an ongoing population-based cohort study in Southwestern, Pennsylvania. PARTICIPANTS Analyses included 360 adults aged 65 years and older whose annual study assessment occurred during the first 120 days of pandemic-related restrictions. MEASUREMENTS Self-reported feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety due to the pandemic-related restrictions were each measured using a single question. Depressive symptoms and anxiety were also assessed with the modified Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 item tools. Disruption in a variety of common social activities was also assessed. RESULTS Feeling lonely affected 36% of participants who were more likely to be female, not currently married, and living alone. Giving up in-person visits with family was associated with significantly higher odds of feeling lonely, and feeling lonely was associated with significantly higher odds of feelings of anxiety and depression. CONCLUSIONS Loneliness is a serious outcome of pandemic-related restrictions among older adults, potentially linked to loss of connection with family, and may be associated with increased feelings of depression and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany F Hughes
- Department of Graduate Studies in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Youngstown State University, One University Plaza, Youngstown, OH44555, USA
| | - Xinhui Ran
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, 130 DeSoto Street, Pittsburgh, PA15261, USA
| | - Fang Fang
- EVMS-Sentar Health Analytics and Delivery Science Institute, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 855 W. Brambleton Avenue, Norfolk, VA23510, USA
| | - Erin Jacobsen
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 130 DeSoto Street, Pittsburgh, PA15261, USA
| | - Beth E Snitz
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 130 DeSoto Street, Pittsburgh, PA15261, USA
| | - Chung-Chou H Chang
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, and Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 130 DeSoto Street, Pittsburgh, PA15261, USA
| | - Mary Ganguli
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, School of Medicine, and Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, 130 DeSoto Street, Pittsburgh, PA15261, USA
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22
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Collins HK, Hagerty SF, Quoidbach J, Norton MI, Brooks AW. Relational diversity in social portfolios predicts well-being. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2120668119. [PMID: 36252003 PMCID: PMC9618086 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2120668119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
We document a link between the relational diversity of one's social portfolio-the richness and evenness of relationship types across one's social interactions-and well-being. Across four distinct samples, respondents from the United States who completed a preregistered survey (n = 578), respondents to the American Time Use Survey (n = 19,197), respondents to the World Health Organization's Study on Global Aging and Adult Health (n = 10,447), and users of a French mobile application (n = 21,644), specification curve analyses show that the positive relationship between social portfolio diversity and well-being is robust across different metrics of well-being, different categorizations of relationship types, and the inclusion of a wide range of covariates. Over and above people's total amount of social interaction and the diversity of activities they engage in, the relational diversity of their social portfolio is a unique predictor of well-being, both between individuals and within individuals over time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Serena F. Hagerty
- Darden School of Business, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903
| | - Jordi Quoidbach
- Department of People Management and Organisation, Esade Business School, Ramon Llull University, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
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23
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Roman C, Beam CR, Zelinski E. Psychosocial Outcomes of Age Integration Status: Do Age-Integrated Social Networks Benefit Older Adults? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12322. [PMID: 36231622 PMCID: PMC9566095 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912322] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Increased longevity means that older adults have more opportunities to have age-integrated social networks, which include both same-aged peers and intergenerational social ties. Compared to those with peer-only, or intergenerational-only social networks, those with age-integrated networks may experience greater psychosocial benefits due to the age-diverse nature of their social networks. Data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study was used to examine age integration status associations with well-being and social engagement in a nationally representative sample of Medicare beneficiaries in the United States. We hypothesized that age-integrated older adults have greater well-being and social engagement than older adults with peer-only or intergenerational-only networks. Weighted ordinary least squares regression analyses were conducted to test associations of well-being and social engagement with age integration status, controlling for sociodemographic and health covariates. Older adults with age-integrated social networks did not differ in well-being from those with peer-only or intergenerational-only networks, although they had greater social engagement than those with intergenerational-only networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly Roman
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Christopher R. Beam
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Elizabeth Zelinski
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
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24
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Herzberg PY, Stender T, Dechmann JCG, Čolić J, Hoyer J. Do what matters, no matter what! Factorizing positive activities during COVID-19 lockdown. J Health Psychol 2022; 28:477-490. [PMID: 36124687 PMCID: PMC9490392 DOI: 10.1177/13591053221120967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Behavioral activation (BA) interventions systematically encourage positive and value-based activities. Engaging in them is an effective way to counteract negative affect, but it is unknown whether there are subtypes of activities that may have differential effects on mood. This study investigated the factorial structure of 99 potentially rewarding activities used in an online BA intervention during the COVID-19 lockdown. About 3624 German-speaking participants evaluated a list of 99 activities that were easy to apply. We analyzed the initially 99 activities by means of confirmatory factor analysis. Since activities can either be seen as reflective or formative indicators, a reflective as well as a formative model was analyzed. Although the range of chosen activities differed clearly between respondents, a one-factor model provided the best fit. It seems that a general "activity" factor is more important for explaining whether people choose a certain activity or not, than specific characteristics of the activity itself.
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25
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Miller LM, Steele JS, Wu CY, Kaye J, Dodge HH, Gonzales MM, Lyons KS. Depressive symptoms in older adult couples: Associations with dyadic physical health, social engagement, and close friends. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:989182. [PMID: 36177214 PMCID: PMC9513127 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.989182] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The objective of this study was to examine associations between level of depressive symptoms in older adult spouse/partner couples and their physical health and social factors (social activity and number of close friends). Methods Using data from 116 community-dwelling couples (age 76.2 ± 8.5), we simultaneously analyzed associations between depressive symptoms (Geriatric Depression Scale, range 0-11) and dyadic physical health, engagement in social activities, and connectedness with close friends. Results Greater engagement in social activities was associated with fewer depressive symptoms in men, whereas more close friendships were associated with fewer depressive symptoms in women, controlling for partner effects, age, education, and cognitive function, with good model fit. Additionally, more disparate physical health within the couple (latent incongruence score) was associated with greater depressive symptoms in men. Discussion Less social activity and fewer close friends were associated with depressive symptoms in older adult couples, but may be distinctly influential depending on gender and in the context of the older adult couple's physical health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsey M. Miller
- School of Nursing, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Oregon Center for Aging and Technology, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Portland, OR, United States
- National Institute on Aging (NIA) - Layton Aging and Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, OHSU, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Joel S. Steele
- Department of Psychology, Portland State University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Chao-Yi Wu
- Oregon Center for Aging and Technology, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Portland, OR, United States
- National Institute on Aging (NIA) - Layton Aging and Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, OHSU, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Jeffrey Kaye
- Oregon Center for Aging and Technology, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Portland, OR, United States
- National Institute on Aging (NIA) - Layton Aging and Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, OHSU, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Hiroko H. Dodge
- Oregon Center for Aging and Technology, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Portland, OR, United States
- National Institute on Aging (NIA) - Layton Aging and Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, OHSU, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Mitzi M. Gonzales
- Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Texas Health Sciences Center San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Karen S. Lyons
- William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, United States
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26
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Jeon S, Lee S, Charles ST. Not Just How Much, But How Many: Overall and Domain-Specific Activity Variety and Cognitive Functioning in Adulthood. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2022; 77:1229-1239. [PMID: 35291012 PMCID: PMC9255927 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbac053] [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: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Active lifestyles are related to higher levels of cognitive functioning. Fewer studies have examined the importance of engaging in different activities (activity variety) for cognitive functioning. Moreover, it is unclear whether activity variety in specific domains (i.e., cognitive, physical, or social) is important for cognitive health. The current study examined whether overall activity variety as well as variety in specific domains relate to cognitive functioning. METHODS In Waves 2 and 3 of the Survey of Midlife Development in the United States, 3,337 adults reported their activity engagement and completed a cognitive battery. For longitudinal analyses, 2,049 participants were classified into 4 groups based on their rank ordering of activity variety across 9 years (remained high, increased, decreased, or remained low). RESULTS Cross-sectional analyses revealed that overall activity variety was related to higher cognitive functioning over and above activity frequency; physical and social activity variety each contributed significantly and uniquely to this association. Longitudinal analyses revealed that those with consistently low overall activity variety at both waves had lower cognitive functioning at Wave 3 than those with high activity variety at either wave, after adjusting for cognitive functioning at Wave 2. Those with consistently high or increasing social activity variety had higher cognitive functioning at Wave 3 than participants with low activity variety at both waves. DISCUSSION Findings suggest that activity variety, particularly in the social domain, is related to concurrent and future cognitive function across adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangha Jeon
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Soomi Lee
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Susan T Charles
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
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Kim YK, Fingerman KL. Daily social media use, social ties, and emotional well-being in later life. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL AND PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS 2022; 39:1794-1813. [PMID: 37727534 PMCID: PMC10508904 DOI: 10.1177/02654075211067254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Older American adults are increasingly utilizing communication technologies, but research has seldom explored older adults' daily social media use and its interface with other "offline" social ties. To explore a complementary and/or compensatory function of social media in later life, this study employed data from the Daily Experiences and Well-Being Study (2016-2017) to examine associations between daily social media use, daily social encounters, social network structure, and daily mood. Community-dwelling older adults (N = 310; Mage = 73.96) reported on their overall social network structure (diversity in types of social ties and size of network), their daily social encounters in-person and by phone, social media use, and emotional well-being for 5 to 6 days. Multilevel models revealed that daily social media use was associated with daily mood in the context of daily social encounters and the size of the social network. Individuals reported less negative mood on days with more social media use and more in-person encounters. More daily social media use was associated with more positive mood for individuals with a relatively small social network but not for their counterparts with larger social networks. Findings suggest that social media is a distinct form of social resource in later life that may complement the emotional benefits of daily social encounters and compensate for the age-related reduction in social network size. Future research should consider how socially isolated older adults might use computer-mediated communication such as social media to foster a sense of social connection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijung K Kim
- Texas Aging & Longevity Center, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Karen L Fingerman
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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Grimes A, Kachadoorian C. Understanding Physical Activity Differences Among Older Adults: Validating a Proposed Typology of Physical Activity as a Tool to Increase Physical Activity by Older Adults. Gerontol Geriatr Med 2022; 8:23337214221094187. [PMID: 35434203 PMCID: PMC9005814 DOI: 10.1177/23337214221094187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Being physically active as one ages benefits both physical and mental health and remains a public health need. A typology to understand older adults’ PA level and intentions can be vital to developing strategies to promote PA. Methods The researchers developed a comprehensive interview guide and interviewed adults 50 years and older ( n=232) to test the validity of the four-type typology (1). Frail, (2). Ambivalent, (3). Aspiring, (4). Active). Results The Kruskal–Wallis test and the Bonferonni post hoc analysis indicated that there were significant differences between types and for each PA category measured, revealing a continuum of PA levels by type and confirmed the four types within this continuum. Discussion The validated typology and the associated tool can be used to identify and implement built environment improvements and interventions aimed to support PA needs of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Grimes
- University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
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29
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Farrell AK, Stanton SC, Marshall EM. Social Network Structure and Combating Social Disconnection: Implications for Physical Health. Curr Opin Psychol 2022; 45:101313. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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30
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Zhang S, Kim YK, Fingerman KL, Birditt KS, Charles ST. Narcissism, Social Experiences, and Mood in Late Life. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2022; 77:1442-1453. [PMID: 35092423 PMCID: PMC9371453 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbac019] [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: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Social ties increase in importance in late life and narcissism may be deleterious to these ties. More narcissistic older adults may have more frequent social encounters than less narcissistic people and may prefer weak ties (e.g., acquaintances) over close ones (e.g., family, close friends). They may benefit more from these encounters due to their need for adulation. This study examined how daily social experiences and mood varied by narcissism among older adults. METHODS Older adults aged 65-92 years (N = 303) completed the Narcissistic Personality Inventory-16 and completed ecological momentary assessments in which they reported number, type, and quality of social contacts and positive and negative mood every 3 h for 5-6 days. RESULTS In multilevel models, narcissism did not predict the number or pleasantness of social encounters. But more narcissistic older adults reported a greater percentage of stressful discussions with weak ties. With regard to mood, more narcissistic people reported higher negative mood if they had more encounters with weak ties and when discussing something stressful with weak ties. Less narcissistic people reported lowered positive mood after they discussed something stressful with close ties. DISCUSSION The findings present a nuanced understanding of how the self-centeredness of narcissism may be manifest in late life. More narcissistic people may be less sensitive to close partner's (e.g., family, friends) distress, but their mood may be more susceptible to negative social events, especially with weak ties (e.g., acquaintances).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyang Zhang
- Address correspondence to: Shiyang Zhang, MA, Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA. E-mail:
| | - Yijung K Kim
- Texas Aging and Longevity Center, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Karen L Fingerman
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Kira S Birditt
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Susan T Charles
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
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31
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Brown CJ, Rook KS. Does Diversity of Social Ties Really Matter More for Health and Leisure Activity than Number of Social Ties? Evidence from Later Adulthood. J Aging Health 2022; 34:831-843. [PMID: 35042381 DOI: 10.1177/08982643211066652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Claims that the diversity of social ties matters more for health than the sheer number of ties have largely gone untested. This study accordingly compared the unique associations of number versus diversity of social ties with key health-related outcomes: functional limitations and leisure activities. Additionally, positive and ambivalent ties were distinguished. METHODS Social networks, health, and leisure activities were assessed in a national sample of older adults (N = 874; ages 65-91). RESULTS Regression analyses revealed that number of ties related to each outcome at a magnitude comparable to, or exceeding, that of diversity in most models. For positive ties, number related more strongly than diversity to greater leisure activities. For ambivalent ties, number related more strongly than diversity to worse functional limitations. DISCUSSION Contrary to prevailing views, diversity of ties is not necessarily more important than number of ties. Findings extend scientific understanding and approaches to interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colette J Brown
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Karen S Rook
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
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Huxhold O, Fiori KL, Windsor T. Rethinking Social Relationships in Adulthood: The Differential Investment of Resources Model. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY REVIEW 2022; 26:57-82. [PMID: 35001730 PMCID: PMC8978474 DOI: 10.1177/10888683211067035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Empirical evidence about the development of social relationships across
adulthood into late life continues to accumulate, but theoretical
development has lagged behind. The Differential Investment of
Resources (DIRe) model integrates these empirical advances. The model
defines the investment of time and energy into social ties varying in
terms of emotional closeness and kinship as the core mechanism
explaining the formation and maintenance of social networks.
Individual characteristics, acting as capacities, motivations, and
skills, determine the amount, direction, and efficacy of the
investment. The context (e.g., the living situation) affects the
social opportunity structure, the amount of time and energy available,
and individual characteristics. Finally, the model describes two
feedback loops: (a) social capital affecting the individual’s living
situation and (b) different types of ties impacting individual
characteristics via social exchanges, social influences, and social
evaluations. The proposed model will provide a theoretical basis for
future research and hypothesis testing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tim Windsor
- Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Prochnow T, Patterson MS. Assessing Social Network Influences on Adult Physical Activity Using Social Network Analysis: A Systematic Review. Am J Health Promot 2021; 36:537-558. [PMID: 34898289 DOI: 10.1177/08901171211060701] [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: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Social network analysis (SNA) can measure social connectedness and assess impact of interpersonal connections on health behaviors, including physical activity (PA). This paper aims to systematically review adult PA studies using SNA to understand important social network concepts relative to PA. DATA SOURCE A search was performed using PsycINFO, MEDLINE, PubMed, and Web of Science. STUDY INCLUSION AND EXCLUSION CRITERIA To be included in the search, articles needed to 1) include a measure of PA, 2) conduct an SNA in which specific relationships were measured, and 3) conduct an analysis between social network measures and PA. DATA EXTRACTION Key study elements including network design and results were extracted. DATA SYNTHESIS Data were synthesized to answer 2 questions: 1) how has adult PA been investigated using SNA approaches and 2) how is an adult's social network associated with PA behaviors? RESULTS A final sample of 28 articles remained from an initial 11 085 articles. Network size, homophily, network composition, and network exposure to PA were all associated with individual level PA across studies. Lastly, longitudinal and intervention studies showed a more complex picture of social influence and diffusion of PA behavior. CONCLUSIONS Adults' PA behaviors are influenced by their networks. Capitalizing on this influence, researchers should engage not just individual behavior change but also the social influences present within the person's life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Prochnow
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, 14736Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Megan S Patterson
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, 14736Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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Yasunaga A, Koohsari MJ, Shibata A, Ishii K, Miyawaki R, Araki K, Oka K. Sedentary Behavior and Happiness: The Mediation Effects of Social Capital. Innov Aging 2021; 5:igab044. [PMID: 34859156 PMCID: PMC8633129 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igab044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives This study aimed to examine the associations between time spent in 6 different domains of sedentary behavior and happiness and whether social capital mediated such associations among adults and older adults living in a rural area of Japan. Research Design and Methods Cross-sectional data from 3,357 participants (mean age: 60 ± 16 years) were used. 6 domains of sedentary behavior, happiness, and social capital were assessed using a self-report questionnaire. Age-stratified multivariable linear regression models adjusted for covariates were used to examine the associations between 6 domains of sedentary behavior and happiness. For relationships where the direct effect was significant, we tested the mediating effects of 2 social capital measures. Results Among both adults and older adults, more time spent viewing television was significantly associated with lower happiness scores, and more time spent engaging in other leisure activities was significantly associated with higher happiness scores. In addition, more time spent using cell phones and computers was significantly associated with lower happiness scores among the adults. Engaging in activities with neighbors significantly mediated the relationship between other leisure activities and happiness in the adults and older adults, and between television viewing and happiness in the older adults. Discussion and Implications Our findings indicated that less television viewing and more mentally active sedentary behavior (e.g., talking with others and engaging in hobbies) were associated with greater happiness. One aspect of social capital, engaging in activities with neighbors, acts as a potential mediator for relationships between sedentary behavior and happiness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akitomo Yasunaga
- Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Bunka Gakuen University, Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mohammad Javad Koohsari
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan.,Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ai Shibata
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kaori Ishii
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan
| | - Rina Miyawaki
- School of Arts and Letters, Meiji University, Suginami, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kuniko Araki
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan
| | - Koichiro Oka
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan
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Saito T, Nishita Y, Tange C, Nakagawa T, Tomida M, Otsuka R, Ando F, Shimokata H, Arai H. Association between intra-individual changes in social network diversity and global cognition in older adults: Does closeness to network members make a difference? J Psychosom Res 2021; 151:110658. [PMID: 34741873 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2021.110658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although qualitative aspects of interpersonal networks, such as diversity or closeness, can protect the health of older adults, their association with cognitive health remains unclear. This study examined the concurrent and time-lagged association between intra-individual changes in global cognition and social network diversity, while considering emotional closeness. METHODS In this 10-year study, we obtained six-wave, biennial data from the National Institute for Longevity Sciences, Longitudinal Study of Aging. Data from 808 community-dwelling, cognitively intact adults aged 65 or older at baseline were analyzed. Global cognition was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Social network diversity scores were assessed using a social convoy model, comprising three closeness levels: inner (closest), middle (second closest), and outer (least close). RESULTS The mean age of the respondents was 72.0 ± 4.4 years at baseline, and 50.1% were male. A fixed-effects model showed that intra-individual change in total (coefficients, B: 0.10; standard error [SE]: 0.05; p = .042) and inner (B: 0.25; SE: 0.07; p < .001) social network diversity was significantly associated with MMSE score decline, even after adjusting for covariates. Yet, in time-lagged models, diversity and MMSE score changes were not significantly associated during the subsequent two years. CONCLUSION Older adults' global cognition declined when the diversity of their closest social network decreased. This may be a promising marker for early cognitive decline in older adults. Indeed, their closest networks are relatively unlikely to decline as part of normal aging or diseases except dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tami Saito
- National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Japan.
| | | | - Chikako Tange
- National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Japan
| | | | - Makiko Tomida
- National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Japan
| | - Rei Otsuka
- National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Japan
| | - Fujiko Ando
- National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Japan; Aichi Shukutoku University, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Shimokata
- National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Japan; Nagoya University of Arts and Sciences, Japan
| | - Hidenori Arai
- National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Japan
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Wilson SJ, Novak JR. The Implications of Being "In it Together": Relationship Satisfaction and Joint Health Behaviors Predict Better Health and Stronger Concordance Between Partners. Ann Behav Med 2021; 56:1014-1025. [PMID: 34849523 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaab099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extensive evidence shows that satisfying marriages boost physical health and longevity. A separate literature reveals strong concordance in couples' health, but the relationship processes that contribute to health concordance remain poorly understood. PURPOSE The current study examined whether relationship satisfaction and joint health behaviors-the extent to which couples eat, sleep, and exercise together-are associated simultaneously with better health and greater health similarity between partners. METHODS Heterogeneous variance multilevel models were applied to data from 234 married couples (Mage = 46, Range = 20-84) reporting on their relationship satisfaction, joint health behaviors, and four health indicators-health satisfaction, depressive symptoms, comorbidities, and medication use. RESULTS More satisfied couples engaged in more joint health behaviors than less satisfied counterparts. When joint health behaviors and relationship satisfaction were examined as separate fixed effects, both predicted greater health satisfaction and fewer depressive symptoms. More joint health behaviors were also associated with less medication use. When both were modeled together, only relationship satisfaction predicted depressive symptoms. By contrast, in random effects, joint health behaviors predicted greater similarity in health satisfaction, depressive symptoms, and comorbidities. Relationship satisfaction only predicted more similar depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Although more satisfied couples engaged in more joint health behaviors. relationship satisfaction and joint health behaviors uniquely predicted couples' health quality and concordance, suggesting that distinct mechanisms may drive better health and stronger health resemblance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie J Wilson
- Department of Psychology, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX 75206, USA
| | - Joshua R Novak
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
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Ng YT, Huo M, Gleason ME, Neff LA, Charles ST, Fingerman KL. Friendships in Old Age: Daily Encounters and Emotional Well-Being. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 76:551-562. [PMID: 31943103 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbaa007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Having friends in old age is linked to higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction. Yet, we know little about older adults' emotional experiences when they encounter friends throughout the day. This study examined whether older adults reported (a) more pleasantness, (b) fewer conversations about stressful experiences, and (c) better mood when they had contact with friends compared to when they had contact with other social partners or were alone throughout the day. We also examined whether these experiences varied by the friendship closeness. METHOD Adults aged 65+ (n = 313) from the Daily Experiences and Well-being Study provided background information and listed and described their close social partners. Participants then completed ecological momentary assessment (EMA) surveys every 3 hr for 5 to 6 days where they reported their encounters with social partners, rated the pleasantness and indicated whether they discussed stressful issues during these encounters, and rated positive and negative mood. RESULTS Multilevel models revealed that encounters with friends were more pleasant and were associated with fewer discussions about stressful experiences compared to encounters with romantic partners or family members throughout the day. Encounters with friends were also associated with better mood, though this link only held for encounters with friends who were not considered close. DISCUSSION Findings are discussed in terms of functionalist theory, socioemotional selectivity theory, relationship ambivalence, and the benefits of less close ties. This work facilitates the understanding of how daily contact with friends can promote older adults' emotional well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yee To Ng
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin
| | - Meng Huo
- Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis
| | - Marci E Gleason
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin
| | - Lisa A Neff
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin
| | | | - Karen L Fingerman
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin
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Morycz RK. Commentary on Historical Intimate Partner Violence and Its Impact on Well-Being and Risk for Elder Abuse in Older Women. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2021; 29:941-943. [PMID: 33541788 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2021.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Richard K Morycz
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA; Section of Geriatrics, UPMC Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, Pittsburgh, PA.
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Roddick CM, Christie CD, Madden KM, Chen FS. Social integration after moving to a new city predicts lower systolic blood pressure. Psychophysiology 2021; 58:e13924. [PMID: 34423451 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.13924] [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: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Residential mobility is linked to higher incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality. A mechanism by which residential relocation may impact health is through the disruption of social networks. To examine whether moving to a new city is associated with increased CVD risk and whether the extent to which movers rebuild their social network after relocating predicts improved CVD risk and psychosocial well-being, recent movers (n = 26), and age- and sex-matched nonmovers (n = 20) were followed over 3 months. Blood pressure, C-reactive protein/albumin ratio (CRP/ALB), social network size, and psychosocial well-being were measured at intake (within 6 weeks of residential relocation for movers) and 3 months later. Multiple regression indicated higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) for movers (M = 107.42, SD = 11.39), compared with nonmovers (M = 102.37, SD = 10.03) at intake, though this trend was not statistically significant. As predicted, increases in movers' social network size over 3 months predicted decreases in SBP, even after controlling for age, sex, and waist-to-hip ratio, b = -2.04 mmHg, 95% CI [-3.35, -.73]. Associations between increases in movers' social ties and decreases in depressive symptoms and stress were in the predicted direction but did not meet the traditional cutoff for statistical significance. Residential relocation and movers' social network size were not associated with CRP/ALB in this healthy sample. This study provides preliminary evidence for increased SBP among recent movers; furthermore, it suggests that this elevation in CVD risk may decrease as individuals successfully rebuild their social network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte M Roddick
- Department of Psychology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Chelsea D Christie
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kenneth M Madden
- Department of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Frances S Chen
- Department of Psychology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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40
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Fingerman KL, Kim YK, Ng YT, Zhang S, Huo M, Birditt KS. Television Viewing, Physical Activity, and Loneliness in Late Life. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2021; 62:1006-1017. [PMID: 34379115 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnab120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Television viewing is the most common leisure activity in late life and may ease loneliness but encourage sedentary behavior. These associations may be particularly evident among older adults who live alone and who may lack other forms of companionship throughout the day. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Adults aged 65+ (N = 257) participated, of whom 34% lived alone. Participants completed an initial interview followed by a 5- to 6-day data collection involving multi-methods: (a) Electronically Activated Recorders (EAR) (30 seconds every 7 minutes) provided audio recordings of television viewing, (b) Actical accelerometers objectively measured physical activity, and (c) ecological momentary assessments (EMA) every 3 hours assessed social interactions. RESULTS On average, older adults spent approximately 37% of their waking time (6.4 hours a day) watching television. Multilevel models revealed that television viewing occurred when participants were alone or with a spouse and was associated with a greater proportion of time sedentary, lower activity, and higher ratings of loneliness compared to when not watching television. Older adults who lived alone reported greater loneliness during 3-hour intervals when viewing television, but older adults who lived with others spent a greater proportion of time sedentary when viewing television. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Findings are discussed with regard to different rationales and ways of watching television - as compensation for social isolation or as a passive leisure activity with a social partner. We discuss ideas for research on additional aspects of television viewing and screen time in late life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Fingerman
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Yijung K Kim
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Yee To Ng
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Shiyang Zhang
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Meng Huo
- Department of Human Ecology, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Kira S Birditt
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Lee S, Urban-Wojcik EJ, Charles ST, Almeida DM. Rich and Balanced Experiences of Daily Emotions are Associated with Activity Diversity Across Adulthood. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 77:710-720. [PMID: 34343286 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbab144] [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] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Studies demonstrate the association between diverse emotions and health. However, we know little about how these emotions are related to activities in daily life. This study examined whether the diversity of daily activities ("activity diversity") is associated with the diversity of both positive and negative daily emotions ("emodiversity") in adulthood. We also examined if these associations differed by age. METHODS Two separate samples of participants from the Midlife in the United States Study II (M2: 2004-2009, n=2,012, Mage=56yrs) and Refresher (MR: 2012-2016, n=779, Mage=47yrs) provided activity and emotion data for eight consecutive days. Using Shannon's entropy, we constructed activity diversity and emodiversity (positive, negative) scores. Analyses adjusted for sociodemographic and health characteristics, total activity time, mean positive/negative emotions, and number of days with positive/negative emotion data. RESULTS Greater activity diversity was associated with greater positive emodiversity and greater negative emodiversity in both samples. In the M2 sample, the association between activity diversity and positive emodiversity was stronger among relatively younger adults, such the positive association among those aged 33-44 years was greater than that observed among those aged 68-84 years. Results held after adjusting for time spent in each of the activities or when using different emodiversity metrics (Gini or Simpson coefficients). DISCUSSION Broad and even participation of daily activities may provide more opportunities to experience rich and balanced emotions. Findings suggest that the association between activity diversity and emodiversity exists across adulthood, underscoring the value of including information about daily activities when examining emotional experiences across the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soomi Lee
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | | | - Susan T Charles
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine
| | - David M Almeida
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Pennsylvania State University, University Park
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Lutz J, Van Orden KA, Bruce ML, Conwell Y. Social Disconnection in Late Life Suicide: An NIMH Workshop on State of the Research in Identifying Mechanisms, Treatment Targets, and Interventions. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2021; 29:731-744. [PMID: 33622593 PMCID: PMC8286287 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2021.01.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Both social disconnection and suicide are significant public health concerns among older adults, and social disconnection is associated with greater risk for suicide-related thoughts and behaviors in late life. We present a synthesis of research discussed during a workshop hosted by the National Institute of Mental Health on social disconnection and late-life suicide. Social disconnection is related to suicide risk in late life via a variety of mechanisms, including biological, behavioral, and psychological correlates. Researchers in several scientific fields have begun to establish these connections and identify targets for interventions to reduce risk in late life. While research has demonstrated that social connection is amenable to change, there is little research to date on the most evidence-based interventions to mitigate social disconnection or the related risks. However, there are several promising biological, behavioral, and psychological interventions that may target various mechanisms, as well as social disconnection itself. With a relative paucity of research in this area, these lines of study are ripe for innovative investigation. In order to most effectively advance the field, we must establish more consistent definitions of social connection and disconnection; more accurately measure and assess older adults' social needs; examine the most effective approaches and modalities for assessment and intervention; take into account important contextual factors; and apply a translational, convergent scientific approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Lutz
- Center for the Study and Prevention of Suicide, Department of Psychiatry (JL), University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY.
| | - Kimberly A Van Orden
- Center for the Study and Prevention of Suicide, Department of Psychiatry (KAVO), University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - Martha L Bruce
- Department of Psychiatry (MLB), Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth, NH
| | - Yeates Conwell
- Center for the Study and Prevention of Suicide, Department of Psychiatry (YC), University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
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Tokunaga S, Tamura K, Otake-Matsuura M. A Dialogue-Based System with Photo and Storytelling for Older Adults: Toward Daily Cognitive Training. Front Robot AI 2021; 8:644964. [PMID: 34268339 PMCID: PMC8275646 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2021.644964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As the elderly population grows worldwide, living a healthy and full life as an older adult is becoming a topic of great interest. One key factor and severe challenge to maintaining quality of life in older adults is cognitive decline. Assistive robots for helping older adults have been proposed to solve issues such as social isolation and dependent living. Only a few studies have reported the positive effects of dialogue robots on cognitive function but conversation is being discussed as a promising intervention that includes various cognitive tasks. Existing dialogue robot-related studies have reported on placing dialogue robots in elderly homes and allowing them to interact with residents. However, it is difficult to reproduce these experiments since the participants' characteristics influence experimental conditions, especially at home. Besides, most dialogue systems are not designed to set experimental conditions without on-site support. This study proposes a novel design method that uses a dialogue-based robot system for cognitive training at home. We define challenges and requirements to meet them to realize cognitive function training through daily communication. Those requirements are designed to satisfy detailed conditions such as duration of dialogue, frequency, and starting time without on-site support. Our system displays photos and gives original stories to provide contexts for dialogue that help the robot maintain a conversation for each story. Then the system schedules dialogue sessions along with the participant's plan. The robot moderates the user to ask a question and then responds to the question by changing its facial expression. This question-answering procedure continued for a specific duration (4 min). To verify our design method's effectiveness and implementation, we conducted three user studies by recruiting 35 elderly participants. We performed prototype-, laboratory-, and home-based experiments. Through these experiments, we evaluated current datasets, user experience, and feasibility for home use. We report on and discuss the older adults' attitudes toward the robot and the number of turns during dialogues. We also classify the types of utterances and identify user needs. Herein, we outline the findings of this study, outlining the system's essential characteristics to experiment toward daily cognitive training and explain further feature requests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seiki Tokunaga
- RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP), Saitama, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Tamura
- RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project (AIP), Saitama, Japan
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44
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Ng YT, Huo M, Han SH, Birditt K, Fingerman K. Older Adult's Marital Status, Conversation Frequency, and Well-being in Everyday Life. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 77:499-512. [PMID: 34159387 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbab112] [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] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Marital status contributes to differences in social experiences and well-being in late life. Yet, we know little about the role of conversation in these processes. Drawing on a functionalist perspective and hierarchical compensatory model, this study aimed to understand (a) whether older adults' marital status is associated with conversation frequency throughout the day, (b) whether contacts with non-spousal ties elicit more conversations among unmarried older adults, and (c) whether conversations exert a stronger effect on mood for unmarried older adults than married older adults. METHODS Adults aged 65+ (N = 272) provided information about their background characteristics and social partners. Across 5-6 days, they completed ecological momentary assessments (EMA) reporting their social encounters and mood every 3 hours. Concurrently, electronically activated recorders (EAR) captured 30-seconds of sound every 7 minutes. We compared older adults who were: married, widowed, and divorced. RESULTS Multilevel models revealed that married older adults engaged in more conversations than divorced older adults throughout the day. Contact with friends elicited more conversations for divorced older adults than married older adults. Furthermore, conversations enhanced mood throughout the day, but this effect was more salient for widowed than married older adults. DISCUSSION Findings highlight the role of marital status in older adults' daily conversational experiences and compensatory processes that may occur. Widowed and divorced older adults differed from married older adults in distinct ways. Divorced older adults may compensate for lack of spouse with friends, whereas widowed older adults may benefit emotionally from engaging in conversations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yee To Ng
- The University of Texas at Austin, Department of Human Development and Family Sciences
| | - Meng Huo
- University of California Davis, Human Ecology
| | - Sae Hwang Han
- University of Texas at Austin, Human Development and Family Sciences
| | - Kira Birditt
- University of Michigan, Institute for Social Research
| | - Karen Fingerman
- University of Texas at Austin, Human Development and Family Science
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Latham-Mintus K, Manierre M, Miller K. Staying Connected: Alternative Transportation Use, Neighborhoods, and Social Participation among Older Americans. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2021; 62:75-88. [PMID: 34133722 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnab084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES A wealth of empirical evidence documents improved health among older adults who participate in social activities. Alternative transportation can serve as a bridge linking older adults to social activities and improving person-environment fit. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Using Waves 1-8 of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), this research examines whether alternative transportation use is associated with participation in diverse social activities among a sample of Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 or older. Additionally, this research explores whether the effect of transportation use varies across neighborhood environments. We analyzed individual trajectories of participation in social activities by estimating two-level growth curve models. RESULTS The use of public transportation, paratransit, getting a ride, or walking/using wheelchair/scooter to get places was associated with participating in more types of social activities. Respondents who used alternative transportation had less steep declines in participation. The effect of getting rides and using paratransit services was more pronounced among respondents living in disordered neighborhoods. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS This research underscores the importance of alternative transportation use and the neighborhood context for participation among older adults. Age-friendly initiatives aimed at fostering greater community engagement should think broadly about the role of multiple forms of transportation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenzie Latham-Mintus
- Department of Sociology, School of Liberal Arts, IUPUI, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Matthew Manierre
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York, USA
| | - Keith Miller
- Indiana University School of Social Work, IUPUI, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Charles S, Röcke C, Zadeh RS, Martin M, Boker S, Scholz U. Leveraging Daily Social Experiences to Motivate Healthy Aging. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 76:S157-S166. [PMID: 33861858 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbab028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Models of healthy aging highlight the motivating influence of social connections. Social experiences constantly shape our thoughts and behaviors throughout daily life, and these daily processes slowly and consistently influence our health and well-being. In this paper, we discuss research that has moved from cross-sectional laboratory designs emphasizing individual behaviors to more naturalistic within-person paradigms linking daily social experiences to emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being. We mention research gaps that need to be filled to advance our knowledge of the powerful forces of the social environment for motivating healthy aging. We also offer future directions to move this research forward. We conclude with an outlook on how to leverage these powerful forces in novel intervention approaches that are sensitive to the constantly changing nature of the person and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Charles
- Department of Psychological Science, Social & Behavioral Sciences Gateway, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Christina Röcke
- University Research Priority Program (URPP) "Dynamics of Healthy Aging", University of Zurich, Andreasstrasse, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rana Sagha Zadeh
- Department of Design & Environmental Analysis, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Mike Martin
- University Research Priority Program (URPP) "Dynamics of Healthy Aging", University of Zurich, Andreasstrasse, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Binzmühlestrasse, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Steve Boker
- Department of Psychology, The University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Urte Scholz
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Binzmühlestrasse, Zurich, Switzerland
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Park NS, Jang Y, Chiriboga DA, Chung S. The Relations of Social Network Types With Mental Distress Among Older Korean Americans: The Interactive Role of Living Arrangement. Res Aging 2021; 44:111-122. [PMID: 33678067 DOI: 10.1177/0164027521999780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to identify social network types in older Korean Americans and to examine their direct associations, as well as interactions with living arrangement, on mental distress. Drawn from the Study of Older Korean Americans (SOKA), participants were aged 60 or over and lived in five states. Analyses included 2,140 cases surveyed during 2017-2018. To identify social network types, latent profile analyses were conducted using 10 network-related criterion variables. A model with five social network types was identified as best fit. The groups were labeled as diverse, moderately diverse, family deficit, friend deficit, and restricted. As hypothesized, greater mental distress was associated with belonging to more deprived networks such as family deficit and restricted groups. Interaction effects also suggest that members of the restricted group were more distressed when they lived alone than when they lived with others. Implications based on the results are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Sook Park
- School of Social Work, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Yuri Jang
- Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David A Chiriboga
- Department of Child and Family Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Soondool Chung
- Department of Social Welfare, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
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Fingerman KL, Ng YT, Zhang S, Britt K, Colera G, Birditt KS, Charles ST. Living Alone During COVID-19: Social Contact and Emotional Well-being Among Older Adults. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 76:e116-e121. [PMID: 33196815 PMCID: PMC7717423 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbaa200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The COVID-19 outbreak and associated physical distancing measures altered the social world for most older adults, but people who live alone may have been disproportionately affected. The current study examined how living alone was associated with daily social contact and emotional well-being among older adults during the pandemic. Method Adults (N = 226) aged 69+ completed a brief survey assessing their living situation, social contact with different social partners (in person, by phone, electronically), and emotions during the morning, afternoon, and evening the prior day. Results Older adults who live alone were less likely to see others in person or to receive or provide help. Living alone was associated with more positive emotions concurrent with in-person contact. In contrast, phone contact was associated with higher levels of negative affect among those living alone, but not among those who live with others. Older adults who live alone were more likely to have contact with friends (rather than family). Discussion Findings suggest older adults who live alone may be more reactive to social contact during the COVID-19 outbreak than older adults who reside with others. In-person contact may confer distinct benefits not available via telephone contact, suggesting that possible interventions during the pandemic may work best with safe forms of in-person contact, possibly with nonfamily members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Fingerman
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin
| | - Yee To Ng
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin
| | - Shiyang Zhang
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin
| | | | - Gianna Colera
- Professional Counseling, Texas State University, San Marcos
| | - Kira S Birditt
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Susan T Charles
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California at Irvine
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Huxhold O, Fiori KL, Webster NJ, Antonucci TC. The Strength of Weaker Ties: An Underexplored Resource for Maintaining Emotional Well-Being in Later Life. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 75:1433-1442. [PMID: 32055856 PMCID: PMC7424273 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbaa019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The purpose of this study was to examine dynamic links between changes in social ties and changes in emotional well-being. Method Trivariate dual-change score models were used to test whether a large number of close ties would be more strongly associated with low levels of depressed affect than a large number of weaker ties, and a large number of weaker ties would be more strongly associated with high levels of positive affect compared to a large number of close ties, across three waves of a large, regionally representative sample of U.S. adults aged 40 and older (N = 802). Results We found that a greater number of weaker ties was associated with having more close ties over time, and that the number of weaker ties was more strongly predictive of positive age-related changes in both aspects of well-being (i.e., more positive affect and less depressed affect) than the number of close ties. Discussion Contrary to popular theoretical orientations in gerontology, weaker ties may offer older adults a more effective avenue for promoting emotional well-being over time than close ties, and may have the additional benefit of compensating for losses in the number of close ties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katherine L Fiori
- Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology, Adelphi University, Garden City, New York
| | - Noah J Webster
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | - Toni C Antonucci
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.,Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
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50
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Lindner S, Aschwanden D, Zimmermann J, Allemand M. How do personality traits manifest in daily life of older adults? Eur J Ageing 2021; 19:131-142. [PMID: 35242000 PMCID: PMC8881547 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-020-00598-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study examined how personality traits manifest in daily life of older adults and distinguished between the manifestations of experiences and behaviors. We used data from an ambulatory assessment study over 10 days with assessments of trait-related experiences and behaviors obtained from 136 older adults aged between 60 and 91 years (41.2% male; M = 70.45 years). Multilevel models revealed that on average, 61.2% of variance in trait-related experiences and 39.6% of variance in behaviors were due to consistent differences between persons. Older adults were rather variable and diverse in their trait manifestations, while they also showed relative stability in trait manifestations. Across older age, some age effects for trait manifestations were found. Moreover, within-person variation of experiences and behaviors showed, with one exception, joint fluctuations in daily life. The findings portray a nuanced picture of trait manifestations in older adulthood. The findings complement the literature on within-person variability in older adulthood and might encourage further studies from a within-person perspective to better understand how older adults navigate through daily life.
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