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Tan XR, Wilson IM, Tay PKC, Win PPS, Song CF, Wee SL. Mapping of technological strategies for reducing social isolation in homebound older adults: A scoping review. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2024; 125:105478. [PMID: 38776697 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2024.105478] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homebound older adults (HOAs) are particularly vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness, which engender a poorer physical and mental health, and greater cognitive decline. The purpose of this review is to map the literature to identify potential technological strategies that reduce social isolation in HOAs, and to understand facilitators and barriers for adoption and implementation. METHODS Six databases including PubMed (MEDLINE), Google Scholar, Cochrane Database, EBSCOHost, National Library ProQuest, Web of Science, and the Journal of Medical Internet Research were searched for relevant articles. Peer-reviewed literature published in English from Jan 2014 to Feb 2024 that employed technological strategies applicable to HOAs and assessed social isolation or connectedness as an outcome measure were included. RESULTS 107 studies were reviewed and classified into different technological categories based on their functions and features. A social technology framework encompassing delivery, hardware, software, content, training, and support was conceptualized with core characteristics identified from the reviewed technological strategies. Cost and complexity of technology, and resource commitment were identified as barriers while user-friendliness, content curation and a supportive ecosystem may facilitate the adoption of a technological strategy to address social isolation in HOAs. CONCLUSION There is a need for early and concerted effort to identify HOAs, provide technology training, and empower them to tap on the digital world to complement and/or supplement social interactions. Development of cost-effective and rapid-to-implement technology is vital for HOAs who are at highest risk to social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Ren Tan
- Health and Social Sciences Cluster, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore; Human Potential Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Ingrid M Wilson
- Health and Social Sciences Cluster, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore; Latrobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter Kay Chai Tay
- Health and Social Sciences Cluster, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore
| | - Phoo Pyae Sone Win
- Health and Social Sciences Cluster, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore; Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Cai Feng Song
- Health and Social Sciences Cluster, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore
| | - Shiou-Liang Wee
- Health and Social Sciences Cluster, Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore; Geriatric Education and Research Institute, Singapore
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Wang K, Chen XS, Kang SY, Smith BD, Gu D. Older adults' online activities and cognition: Investigating the psychological mechanisms and age and gender differences. Soc Sci Med 2024; 352:116988. [PMID: 38820692 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116988] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate psychological mechanisms underlying the association between older adults' Internet use and cognition and examine potential age and gender group differences. METHODS 2064 older participants were extracted from the Waves 2012, 2013, and 2016 Health and Retirement Study. Internet use was measured by two sets of variables: Internet access and different types of online activities (i.e., informational use, social use, online shopping, and online banking). Path analyses were applied to test the proposed mechanisms via three mediators (i.e., loneliness, depressive symptoms, and perceived control). Multi-group analyses were conducted to examine the potential group differences. RESULTS Internet use was positively associated with cognition. Despite the large direct effect, small but significant indirect effects via depressive symptoms and perceived control were identified across all online activities. Multi-group analyses revealed age-group differences in the mechanisms: depressive symptoms mediated the effects of all online activities on cognition among young-old adults, while perceived control mediated all the effects among old-old adults. Gender group differences were also identified: depressive symptoms mediated the effects of all online activities on cognition among older women and most online activities among older men, whereas perceived control mediated the associations between informational and instrumental (i.e., online shopping and banking) use and cognition among older men. DISCUSSION This study highlights the mediating effect of depressive symptoms and perceived control and age and gender differences regarding the Internet use-cognition association. Internet-based cognitive interventions should consider these psychological mediators and age and gender differences for the best results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Wang
- Department of Social Work, College of Community and Public Affairs, The State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, 13902, USA.
| | - Xiayu Summer Chen
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL, 61820, USA.
| | - Suk-Young Kang
- Department of Social Work, College of Community and Public Affairs, The State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY, 13902, USA.
| | - Brenda D Smith
- School of Social Work, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35401, USA.
| | - Danan Gu
- Independent Researcher, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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André M, Enez J, Charras K, Besançon M, Delouvée S. Autonomy, independence, and participation of nursing home habitants addressed by assistive technology: a scoping review. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38832368 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2024.2359472] [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: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Assistive technologies have been identified by researchers and public policies of the Western world to be promising tools to face the challenge of maintaining quality of life of older people, and especially for nursing home habitants. Independence, autonomy, and participation are major determinants of quality of life of nursing homes habitants. Maintaining quality of life is nowadays a priority for public health policies and institutions of the where the population is growing older every year. METHOD This PRISMA-ScR review aims to determine which assistive technologies are used to promote autonomy, independence, and social participation of nursing home habitants. An electronic search was conducted for English, French articles to identify research studies using CINAHL, PubMed, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, and Googlescholar. RESULTS 12 papers published between 2009 and 2023 described 6 assistive technologies: technologies integrated into the environment, monitoring technologies, surveillance technologies, information and communication technology, social assistance robots, virtual reality. Six types of AT are currently used worldwide to maintain autonomy, independence and participation of people living in nursing homes. Their use is mainly perceived as positive by habitants, care and non-care staff, next of kin, and experts despite some concerns regarding ethical, financial, consideration. DISCUSSION Nevertheless, their impact on habitant's autonomy, independence and participation still needs to be measured using suitable tools to understand their real impact on the quality of life of the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marielle André
- Living Lab Vieillissements et Vulnérabilités (LL2V), Université Rennes, Service de gériatrie, CHU Rennes, Rennes, France
- Univ Rennes, LP3C (Laboratoire de Psychologie: Cognition, Comportement, Communication), Université de Bretagne Sud, Université de Brest, Université de Rennes 2, Institut Brestois des Sciences de l'Homme et de la Société, Rennes, France
| | - Jérémy Enez
- Living Lab Vieillissements et Vulnérabilités (LL2V), Université Rennes, Service de gériatrie, CHU Rennes, Rennes, France
- IFPEK, Institut de Formation en Pédicurie-Podologie, Ergothérapie, Masso-Kinésithérapie, Rennes, France
| | - Kevin Charras
- Living Lab Vieillissements et Vulnérabilités (LL2V), Université Rennes, Service de gériatrie, CHU Rennes, Rennes, France
- Univ Rennes, LP3C (Laboratoire de Psychologie: Cognition, Comportement, Communication), Université de Bretagne Sud, Université de Brest, Université de Rennes 2, Institut Brestois des Sciences de l'Homme et de la Société, Rennes, France
| | - Maud Besançon
- Univ Rennes, LP3C (Laboratoire de Psychologie: Cognition, Comportement, Communication), Université de Bretagne Sud, Université de Brest, Université de Rennes 2, Institut Brestois des Sciences de l'Homme et de la Société, Rennes, France
| | - Sylvain Delouvée
- Univ Rennes, LP3C (Laboratoire de Psychologie: Cognition, Comportement, Communication), Université de Bretagne Sud, Université de Brest, Université de Rennes 2, Institut Brestois des Sciences de l'Homme et de la Société, Rennes, France
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Zhang K, Song Q, Burr JA. Internet use and loneliness among older Chinese adults. Aging Ment Health 2024; 28:866-873. [PMID: 37922191 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2278713] [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: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examined the association between Internet use and loneliness among Chinese older adults (aged 60+) over a two-year period using nationally representative survey data from China. METHODS Using data from the 2016 and 2018 waves of the China Longitudinal Ageing Social Survey (N = 8,059), we estimated difference-in-differences regression models to assess the association between Internet use and levels of loneliness over time. RESULTS Compared to Internet non-users, Chinese older adults who were new Internet users, as well as those who were continuous Internet users, reported lower levels of loneliness over time (B = -0.21, p < 0.001 and B = -0.16, p < 0.001, respectively). Conversely, those Chinese older adults who used the Internet in wave 1 but then disengaged from using the Internet in wave 2 demonstrated an upward trend in loneliness over time, similar to Internet non-users (the estimate of difference-in-differences was non-significant for the comparison between disengaged-users and non-users: B = -0.03, p = 0.42). CONCLUSION This study provided new evidence to support the potential benefits of Internet use for reducing the risk of loneliness among Chinese older adults. The findings suggested that supporting current Internet users to remain digitally engaged is as important as encouraging Internet non-users to cross the digital divide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunyu Zhang
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Qian Song
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Burr
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Wang Y, Wu Z, Duan L, Liu S, Chen R, Sun T, Wang J, Zhou J, Wang H, Huang P. Digital exclusion and cognitive impairment in older people: findings from five longitudinal studies. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:406. [PMID: 38714939 PMCID: PMC11077883 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-05026-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Older people are more likely to have digital exclusion, which is associated with poor health. This study investigated the relationship between digital exclusion and cognitive impairment in older adults from 23 countries across five longitudinal surveys. DESIGN AND MEASUREMENTS Digital exclusion is defined as self-reported non-use of the Internet. We assessed cognitive impairment on three dimensions: orientation, memory, and executive function. We used generalized estimation equations fitting binary logistic regression with exchangeable correlations to study the relationship between digital exclusion and cognitive impairment, and apply the minimum sufficiently adjusted set of causally directed acyclic graphs as the adjusted variable. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS We pooled a nationally representative sample of older adults from five longitudinal studies, including the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal study (CHARLS), the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA), the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), the Mexican Health and Ageing Study (MHAS) and the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in European (SHARE). RESULTS We included 62,413 participants from five longitudinal studies. Digital exclusion varied by country, ranging from 21.69% (SHARE) in Denmark to 97.15% (CHARLS) in China. In the original model, digital exclusion was significantly associated with cognitive impairment in all five studies. In the adjusted model, these associations remained statistically significant: CHARLS (Odds ratio [OR] = 2.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.84-4.28, ELSA (1.92 [1.70-2.18]), HRS(2.48[2.28-2.71), MHAS (1.92 [1.74-2.12]), and SHARE (2.60 [2.34-2.88]). CONCLUSION Our research shows that a significant proportion of older people suffer from digital exclusion, especially in China. Digital exclusion was positively correlated with cognitive impairment. These findings suggest that digital inclusion could be an important strategy to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive impairment in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuge Wang
- College of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhigang Wu
- Center for Clinical Medicine Research of Jinggangshan University, Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, China
- Department of Medicine, JingGangshan University, Ji'an, China
- Online Collaborative Research Center for Evidence-Based Medicine Ministry of Education, JingGangshan Univesity, Ji'an, China
| | - Lanzhi Duan
- Center for Clinical Medicine Research of Jinggangshan University, Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, China
- Department of Medicine, JingGangshan University, Ji'an, China
- Online Collaborative Research Center for Evidence-Based Medicine Ministry of Education, JingGangshan Univesity, Ji'an, China
| | - Sijia Liu
- Center for Clinical Medicine Research of Jinggangshan University, Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, China
- Department of Medicine, JingGangshan University, Ji'an, China
- Online Collaborative Research Center for Evidence-Based Medicine Ministry of Education, JingGangshan Univesity, Ji'an, China
| | - Ruzhao Chen
- Center for Clinical Medicine Research of Jinggangshan University, Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, China
- Department of Medicine, JingGangshan University, Ji'an, China
- Online Collaborative Research Center for Evidence-Based Medicine Ministry of Education, JingGangshan Univesity, Ji'an, China
| | - Tao Sun
- Center for Clinical Medicine Research of Jinggangshan University, Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, China
- Department of Medicine, JingGangshan University, Ji'an, China
- Online Collaborative Research Center for Evidence-Based Medicine Ministry of Education, JingGangshan Univesity, Ji'an, China
| | - Jiang Wang
- Center for Clinical Medicine Research of Jinggangshan University, Affiliated Hospital of Jinggangshan University, Ji'an, China
- Department of Medicine, JingGangshan University, Ji'an, China
- Online Collaborative Research Center for Evidence-Based Medicine Ministry of Education, JingGangshan Univesity, Ji'an, China
| | - Jianghua Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hongxia Wang
- Department of Nursing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
| | - Pan Huang
- College of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
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Huang C, Yu Z, Han J, Yang P, Wang T, Chen Y. Can a "Pandemic Life Adaptation" Digital Technology Curriculum Reduce the Digital Disadvantage of Older Adults During COVID-19? An Intervention Study from Shanghai. JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK 2024:1-19. [PMID: 38600761 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2024.2338070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Older adults are at a digital disadvantage because of social stereotypes and a lack of social support; however, smartphones have become a necessary technology to cope with crises and daily life in China, especially during the pandemic. This study aimed to help marginalized older adults take on new tasks by developing digital technology education that used a framework of social cognitive theory in social work. The study followed a quasi-experimental design in which 153 elderly people were recruited from three community service centers; 90 of the participants received 6-weekly intervention. Intent-to-treat analysis, effect size calculations, and sensitivity analysis were conducted. The findings show that digital education significantly enhanced two domains of digital life adaptation abilities: general digital life adaptation abilities [g = .50, 95% CI (.70, 2.69)] and pandemic digital life adaptation abilities [g = .89, 95% CI (.96, 2.07)]. The intervention also improved three domains of digital self-efficacy: sharing and communication [g = .55, 95% CI (.04, .48)], verification [g = .34, 95% CI (.01, .59)], and influencing others [g = .53, 95% CI (.13, .77)]. The study showed that the new intervention approach reduced the harm to vulnerable older adults in the digital wave, especially during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Huang
- The Center for Modern Chinese City Study, School of Social Development, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhan Yu
- Department of Social Work, School of Social Development, East China Normal University, China
| | - Jianbo Han
- Department of Social Work, School of Social Development, East China Normal University, China
| | - Peijie Yang
- Student Affairs Office, College of Foreign Languages, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, China
| | - Tiantong Wang
- Department of Social Work, School of Social Development, East China Normal University, China
| | - Yihua Chen
- The Center for Modern Chinese City Study, School of Social Development, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Global Development, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, USA
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7
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Saouadogo I, Massom DM, Kabore SS, Fomete Djatsa RK, Seu J, Ngangue P. Perceived Benefits and Disadvantages Associated with the Use of the Electronic Consultation Register by Health Providers in the Health District of Toma, Burkina Faso. Int J MCH AIDS 2024; 13:e002. [PMID: 38694895 PMCID: PMC11008583 DOI: 10.25259/ijma_650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective Most countries in sub-Saharan Africa need to catch up in integrating information and communication technologies (ICT) into their health systems. This is mainly because of the need for more infrastructure that allows for reasonable use of the technologies. To support the actions of the Ministry of Health of Burkina Faso, a Non-governmental Organization (NGO) has implemented the integrated electronic diagnostic approach (IeDA) Project. The project includes the deployment of an electronic consultation register (ECR). This article aims to explore the perceptions of healthcare providers on the benefits and disadvantages of using the ECR. Methods We conducted a qualitative, descriptive study through individual semi-structured interviews with healthcare providers. Data were collected in the Toma health district in December 2021. In addition, a thematic analysis was performed using NVivo software. Results Thirty-five healthcare workers were interviewed (19 nurses, 7 midwives, 6 mobile community health and hygiene workers, and 3 birth attendants). Two main themes emerged from our analyses, which are the advantages and disadvantages perceived by ECR users. Our data suggest that using the ECR had many benefits ranging from improving healthcare providers' knowledge and performance in terms of patients' care, assisting and helping in patient diagnosis and treatment and improving patient satisfaction. However, the participants also shared their negative perceptions about the ECR, mentioning that it increased their workload. They also reported lengthened consultation time and work duplication as the tool was still in its trial phase and was used along with the paper consultation register. Conclusion and Global Health Implications The ECR is an effective tool for diagnosis and management, which has several advantages and reasonably satisfies patients. However, disadvantages, including increased workload and lack of fluidity and stability of the system, must be considered to ensure better usability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Issaka Saouadogo
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research Training in Health Sciences and Education, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Douglas Mbang Massom
- Epidemiology, Intervention and Training Department, Epicentre, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Soutongnoma Safiata Kabore
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research Training in Health Sciences and Education, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Ronny Kevin Fomete Djatsa
- Laboratory for Research on Economic and Social Transformations, Research Laboratory on Economic and Social Transformations, Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Senegal
| | - Josiane Seu
- Faculty of Nursing, Laval University, Quebec, Canada
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Castleton A. Older Adults, Tablets, and Ambivalence: A Grounded Theory Study of a One-Tablet-Per Older Person, Public Program in Uruguay. J Aging Soc Policy 2024; 36:325-346. [PMID: 35290172 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2022.2047401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This study used grounded theory to investigate older Uruguayans' use of tablets delivered through a public program called Plan Ibirapitá. This program was developed in 2015, by the leftist government that was in power at that time, to promote the digital inclusion of individuals considered to be excluded from the benefits of the information society, such as older adults. Through Plan Ibirapitá, older adults who receive a pension below approximately 900 USD, receive a tablet for free, training for its use, and 1 GB of monthly internet. According to the program's Fifth-Use Survey from 2019, almost 60% of those who received Plan Ibirapitá's tablet do not use it. To examine the relationship between older adults and the tablets, twenty-six participants were interviewed about their experiences with this device. Results suggest that the relationship they established with the tablets is ambivalent. On the one hand, the participants see information and communication technology (ICT) as modern tools that are useful for communicating with loved ones. On the other hand, they understood their lives as busy for which tablets were mostly unnecessary. These findings indicate that including older people into the digital world is more complex than distributing devices top-down.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Castleton
- Department of Sociology, Assistant Professor, MacEwan University, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Endter C, Migala S, Münch A, Richter A. Care-ethical considerations of technology-care-assemblages. J Aging Stud 2024; 68:101209. [PMID: 38458728 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaging.2024.101209] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Technology plays a major role in care. Against the background of demographic ageing, the use of assistive technologies to support and relieve carers in their work is becoming more and more important. One sector that is increasingly coming into focus is home care by family caregivers. Here, the use of assistive technologies takes place under specific conditions. The article proposes a care-ethical perspective to understand these conditions. It critically discusses issues of power and participation in the negotiation of care that can be associated with the use of technology and outlines a care-ethical perspective on technocare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cordula Endter
- Catholic University of Applied Science Berlin, Köpenicker Allee 39-57, 10318 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Silke Migala
- German Centre of Gerontology, Manfred-von-Richthofen-Str. 2, 12101 Berlin, Germany.
| | | | - Anna Richter
- German Association for Public and Private Welfare, Michaelkirchstraße 17/18, 10179 Berlin, Germany
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Lee H, Choi JY, Kim SW, Ko KP, Park YS, Kim KJ, Shin J, Kim CO, Ko MJ, Kang SJ, Kim KI. Digital Health Technology Use Among Older Adults: Exploring the Impact of Frailty on Utilization, Purpose, and Satisfaction in Korea. J Korean Med Sci 2024; 39:e7. [PMID: 38193326 PMCID: PMC10782036 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2024.39.e7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The importance of digital technology is increasing among older adults. In this study, the digital health technology utilization status, purpose, and satisfaction of older adults were investigated according to frailty. METHODS A face-to-face survey was conducted among adults aged 65 years or older. Frailty was defined using the Korean version of the fatigue, resistance, ambulation, illnesses, and loss of weight scale. RESULTS A total of 505 participants completed the survey, with 153 (30.3%) identified as pre-frail or frail and 352 (69.7%) as healthy. All respondents used smartphones; 440 (87.1%) were application users, and 290 (57.4%) were healthcare application users. Wearable devices were used by only 36 patients (7.1%). Pre-frail or frail respondents used social media more frequently than healthy respondents (19.4% vs. 7.4%, P < 0.001). Among the respondents, 319 (63.2%) were not able to install or delete the application themselves, and 277 (54.9%) stated that the application was recommended by their children (or partner). Pre-frail and frail respondents used more healthcare applications to obtain health information (P = 0.002) and were less satisfied with wearable devices (P = 0.02). CONCLUSION The usage rate of digital devices, including mobile phones among older adults in Korea is high, whereas that of wearable devices is low. There was a notable difference in the services used by pre-frail and frail respondents compared to healthy respondents. Therefore, when developing digital devices for pre-frail and frail older adults, it is crucial to incorporate customized services that meet their unique needs, particularly those services that they frequently use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyejin Lee
- Department of Family Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Family Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung-Yeon Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sun-Wook Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwang-Pil Ko
- Clinical Preventive Medicine Center, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Yang Sun Park
- Devision of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University of College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute for Innovation in Digital Healthcare, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwang Joon Kim
- Devision of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University of College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute for Innovation in Digital Healthcare, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jaeyong Shin
- Department of Preventive Medicine & Institute of Health Services Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chang Oh Kim
- Devision of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University of College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Myung Jin Ko
- Silvia Health, Seoul, Korea
- Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Kwang-Il Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Cheung K, Chau AKC, Woo J, Lai ET. The age-based digital divide in an increasingly digital world: A focus group investigation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2023; 115:105225. [PMID: 37837792 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2023.105225] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Previous research has identified numerous benefits of information and communication technology (ICT) on the well-being of older adults. However, it has been increasingly recognized that older adults do not necessarily catch up with the rapidly digitalized society, known as the 'age-based digital divide'. The progress of digitalization has been accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have widened the digital divide. This study aimed to gain a better understanding of their living experience and concerns about digital exclusion during the pandemic. The perceptions of older adults in Hong Kong, a highly digitalized, metropolitan city, towards the digital age and its impact on their daily living during the COVID-19 pandemic were explored. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We conducted 12 focus group interviews with 77 community-dwelling older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, applying both organization, reduction, and refinement. RESULTS Four themes were identified: 1) Diversified means to access community information; 2) Facilitated daily living through the usage of ICTs; 3) Concerns about age-related decline in function; and 4) Fear of digital exclusion and accelerated digitalization during the pandemic. The results indicate that ICT provided numerous benefits to the daily life of older adults, but our participants also expressed concerns about age-related losses and the fear of digital exclusion due to the ongoing digitalization of society. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings indicated that older adults do not necessarily benefit from technological innovations, which are becoming more pervasive during the pandemic. To create age-friendly environments that cater to the needs of all members of society in the digital age, policymakers and service providers should provide diverse choices for older adults, rather than relying solely on one-size-fits-all technological solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Cheung
- Jockey Club Institute of Ageing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Anson Kai Chun Chau
- Institute of Health Equity, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Jean Woo
- Jockey Club Institute of Ageing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR; Institute of Health Equity, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR; Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR.
| | - Eric Tc Lai
- Institute of Health Equity, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR; Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR
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12
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Jøranson N, Zechner M, Korkmaz Yaylagul N, Efthymiou A, Silva R. Experienced barriers in the use of ICT for social interaction in older adults ageing in place: a qualitative systematic review protocol (SYSR-D-22-00848). Syst Rev 2023; 12:192. [PMID: 37817279 PMCID: PMC10563227 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-023-02332-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several information and communication technologies (ICT) have been developed to enhance social connectedness of older adults aging in place, although they are not accessible for all. Barriers in using ICT might for example relate to health issues, sensory loss, lack of technical skills, or reluctance to use technologies. Though knowledge on these barriers is crucial for the development and implementation of ICT for older adults, no systematic review was found on this subject. The proposed qualitative systematic review aims to explore barriers experienced by older adults aging in place in using ICT for social interaction. METHODS The review will be conducted in accordance with the JBI methodology. Databases for search will include MEDLINE (via PubMed), CINAHL (via EBSCO), and Web of Science (ISI), among others. Included studies focus on older adults ageing in place 60 years or older. Pairs of authors will independently, by following agreed guidelines, assess the eligibility of studies, and extract data. The testing of eligibility criteria and screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts will be performed. The findings will describe for example populations, context, culture, and the phenomena of interest. Qualitative research findings will, where possible, be pooled by using JBI SUMARI for the meta-aggregation approach. DISCUSSION The mapping of published studies has the potential to identify research gaps in the existing literature, which again may inform developers and stakeholders in designing more user-friendly and adaptive ICT solutions for older people ageing in place. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION CRD42022370044.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Jøranson
- Faculty of Health Studies, VID Specialized University, Vinderen, PO Box 184, N-3019, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Minna Zechner
- University of Helsinki, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, P.O. Box 54 (Unioninkatu 37), 00014, Finland
| | - Nilufer Korkmaz Yaylagul
- Faculty of Health Science, Gerontology Department, Akdeniz University, Dumlupınar Boulevard, 07058, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Areti Efthymiou
- Quality of Life Lab, Department of Social Work, Hellenic Mediterranean University, Estavromenos Heraklion, Crete, PC 71410, Greece
| | - Rosa Silva
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Nursing School of Porto, 4200-072, Porto, Portugal
- Portugal Centre for Evidence Based Practice, A JBI Centre of Excellence (PCEBP), 3000-232, Coimbra, Portugal
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13
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Utz RL, Caserta M, Iacob E, Sparks C, Stark L, Terrill A, Thompson A, Wong B. Maximizing the Benefit of Respite for Dementia Caregivers: A Study Protocol Describing the Development & Evaluation of the Time for Living & Caring (TLC) Intervention. OBM INTEGRATIVE AND COMPLIMENTARY MEDICINE 2023; 8:040. [PMID: 38313766 PMCID: PMC10838170 DOI: 10.21926/obm.icm.2304040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Dementia caregivers are susceptible to adverse physical and mental health outcomes, given the often prolonged and challenging care and support they provide to family members with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). This report describes a community-engaged implementation of a novel behavioral intervention - an "app" (interactive website) called TLC (Time for Living and Caring) that coaches caregivers on how to maximize the benefits associated with respite time. The rationale and features of the TLC intervention and the full research protocol used to develop and then evaluate its feasibility, acceptability, and initial efficacy are described here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L. Utz
- University of Utah, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, 260 South Central Campus Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Michael Caserta
- University of Utah, College of Nursing, 10 S. 2000 E., Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Eli Iacob
- University of Utah, College of Nursing, 10 S. 2000 E., Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Catharine Sparks
- University of Utah, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, 260 South Central Campus Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Louisa Stark
- University of Utah, School of Medicine, 27 S. Mario Capecchi Dr, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Alexandra Terrill
- University of Utah, College of Health, 15 N 2030 East, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Amber Thompson
- University of Utah, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, 260 South Central Campus Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Bob Wong
- University of Utah, College of Nursing, 10 S. 2000 E., Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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14
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Rennoch G, Schlomann A, Zank S. The Relationship Between Internet Use for Social Purposes, Loneliness, and Depressive Symptoms Among the Oldest Old. Res Aging 2023; 45:630-642. [PMID: 36606365 DOI: 10.1177/01640275221150017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The internet enables communication with social partners and has been found to be related to higher psychological well-being among older adults. Using data from the representative German North Rhine-Westphalia 80+ (NRW80+) study (n = 1,698, Mage = 84.86), we conducted linear regression and mediation analyses to compare levels of loneliness and depressive symptoms of onliners using the internet for social or other purposes with offliners. Oldest old onliners used the internet mostly for social purposes, and this type of internet use was related to a significantly lower level of loneliness and fewer depressive symptoms compared to offliners. The mediation analysis revealed that internet use for social purposes was related to lower levels of loneliness, which in turn was associated with a lower number of depressive symptoms. The findings suggest that internet use for social purposes may help the oldest old to reduce feelings of loneliness and depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerlind Rennoch
- NRW Graduate School GROW (Gerontological Research on Well-Being), University of Cologne, Germany
| | - Anna Schlomann
- Network Aging Research (NAR), Heidelberg University, Germany
| | - Susanne Zank
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Rehabilitative Gerontology, University of Cologne, Germany
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15
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Berkowsky RW, Seifert A, Hale TM. Editorial: Benefits and challenges to using health-related information and communication technologies among older adults. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1224606. [PMID: 37383265 PMCID: PMC10295735 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1224606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ronald W. Berkowsky
- Health Sciences Program, California State University Channel Islands, Camarillo, CA, United States
| | - Alexander Seifert
- School of Social Work, University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland, Olten, Switzerland
| | - Timothy M. Hale
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States
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16
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Huu PT. Impact of employee digital competence on the relationship between digital autonomy and innovative work behavior: a systematic review. Artif Intell Rev 2023:1-30. [PMID: 37362897 PMCID: PMC10148002 DOI: 10.1007/s10462-023-10492-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, the level of concern regarding employee digital competence has increased significantly. Several studies provide different surveys, but they cannot describe the relationship between digital autonomy and innovative work behaviour concerning the impact of employee digital competence. Hence, it is necessary to conduct a survey that provides a deeper understanding of these concerns and suggests a suitable study for other researchers. Using scientific publication databases and adhering to the PRISMA statement, this systematic literature review aims to offer a current overview of employee digital competence impact on the relationship between digital autonomy and innovative work behaviour from 2015 to 2022, covering definitions, research purposes, methodologies, outcomes, and limitations. When reviewing the selected articles, 18 articles were examined under relationship topics, and 12 articles reported on impact topics under different tasks. The main findings highlight the significance of digital competence and autonomy in promoting employee creativity, learning, and sharing knowledge. According to the review findings, employees with greater digital autonomy are more likely to engage in innovative work, leading to improved job performance and empowerment. Therefore, the development of digital autonomy prioritizes organizations by providing access to digital tools, training, and a supportive work environment. Overall, the current review indicates a strong positive correlation between digital autonomy, innovative work behaviour, and employee impact. This underscores the importance for organizations to not only participate in digital competence and skills, but also to create a culture that values autonomy, creativity, and innovation among its employees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pham Thanh Huu
- ADAI LAB, 2nd Floor, Mitech Center, No. 75 Road 2/4, Nha Trang City, Vietnam
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17
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Tsai HH, Cheng CY, Shieh WY. Effectiveness of laptop-based versus smartphone-based videoconferencing interaction on loneliness, depression and social support in nursing home residents: A secondary data analysis. J Telemed Telecare 2023; 29:177-186. [PMID: 33197365 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x20972004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The worldwide coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic re-emphasises the importance of videoconferencing in supporting interactions between nursing home residents and their family and friends. However, there is a scarcity of comparative studies on how modalities of conferencing programs impact health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to compare laptop-based with smartphone-based videoconferencing programs on nursing home residents' perceptions of loneliness, depressive symptoms and social support. METHODS This retrospective secondary analysis used data from two previous studies on the effectiveness of videoconferencing programs (laptop-based and smartphone-based) to improve outcomes of loneliness, depressive symptoms and social support (type and source) among nursing home residents. Generalised estimating equations compared differences from baseline measures with measures at 1 and 3 months between the two groups with and without adjusting for the effects of confounding variables. RESULTS With the exception of age, there were no differences in demographics between participants in the laptop and smartphone groups. Neither changes from baseline in mean scores for loneliness nor depressive symptoms differed between groups. However, changes in mean scores from baseline between groups were significantly greater in the smartphone-based group compared with the laptop-based group for three types of social support: informational and appraisal at 1 and 3 months; and emotional at 3 months. Changes from baseline in mean scores for social support from friends (at 1 and 3 months) and other sources (at 3 months) were also significantly greater for the smartphone group compared with the laptop group. DISCUSSION The two modalities of videoconferencing did not differ in effects on depressive symptoms or loneliness. However, smartphones had a greater effect on the type and source of social support compared with laptops. Whether the small screen of a smartphone reduces users' anxiety and allows them to talk more on screen is worth studying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiu-Hsin Tsai
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City.,Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan City
| | - Ching-Yu Cheng
- College of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan City.,Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Chiayi, Puzi City
| | - Wann-Yun Shieh
- Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City
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18
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Cone N, Lee JE. Older adult communication types and emotional well-being outcomes during COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:178. [PMID: 36973663 PMCID: PMC10042399 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-03856-8] [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: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rationale for the present study is a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, as there are fewer opportunities available for older adults to engage in face-to-face interaction and social activities, which may result in changes in the communication methods with their social contacts. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between methods of social connectedness and emotional well-being outcomes among older adults at the start of the pandemic. METHODS Two thousand five hundred and fifty-eight older adults Medicare beneficiaries (65 + years of age) in the National Health and Aging Trends Study at wave 10 (June 2020 to January 2021) were selected for cross-sectional analysis. Participants were measured on brief questionnaires regarding forms of communication with family and friends before and during the pandemic. Emotional well-being outcomes were measured on single items of sadness/depressed and loneliness; as well as a 6-item Likert scale of anxiety during the pandemic. Paired sample t-tests were utilized to examine the forms of communication between before and during pandemic. Hierarchical regressions were conducted to assess the relationship between forms of communication and emotional well-being outcomes. RESULTS We found that there were overall decreases in communication frequency during pandemic. Findings from regression analyses indicated information communication technology (ICT) are associated with negative emotional well-being outcomes, whereas in-person social contact are associated with lower levels of negative affect. CONCLUSION These findings suggest utilizing higher levels of ICT has negative implications for older adults' emotional well-being, contrasting with the positive implication of in-person contacts. These findings highlight the role of ICT in emotional well-being among older adults during pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Cone
- Human Development and Family Studies, Iowa State University, 2222 Osborn Dr, Ames, IA, 50011-1084, United States of America.
| | - Jeong Eun Lee
- Human Development and Family Studies, Iowa State University, 2222 Osborn Dr, Ames, IA, 50011-1084, United States of America
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19
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Marston HR, Ko PC, Girishan Prabhu V, Freeman S, Ross C, Sharaievska I, Browning MH, Earle S, Ivan L, Kanozia R, Öztürk Çalıkoğlu H, Arslan H, Bilir-Koca B, Alexandra Silva P, Buttigieg SC, Großschädl F, Schüttengruber G. Digital Practices by Citizens During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Findings From an International Multisite Study. JMIR Ment Health 2023; 10:e41304. [PMID: 36877558 PMCID: PMC9994468 DOI: 10.2196/41304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic brought digital practices and engagement to the forefront of society, which were based on behavioral changes associated with adhering to different government mandates. Further behavioral changes included transitioning from working in the office to working from home, with the use of various social media and communication platforms to maintain a level of social connectedness, especially given that many people who were living in different types of communities, such as rural, urban, and city spaces, were socially isolated from friends, family members, and community groups. Although there is a growing body of research exploring how technology is being used by people, there is limited information and insight about the digital practices employed across different age cohorts living in different physical spaces and residing in different countries. OBJECTIVE This paper presents the findings from an international multisite study exploring the impact of social media and the internet on the health and well-being of individuals in different countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Data were collected via a series of online surveys deployed between April 4, 2020, and September 30, 2021. The age of respondents varied from 18 years to over 60 years across the 3 regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. On exploring the associations of technology use, social connectedness, and sociodemographic factors with loneliness and well-being through bivariate and multivariate analyses, significant differences were observed. RESULTS The levels of loneliness were higher among respondents who used social media messengers or many social media apps than among those who did not use social media messengers or used ≤1 social media app. Additionally, the levels of loneliness were higher among respondents who were not members of an online community support group than among those who were members of an online community support group. Psychological well-being was significantly lower and loneliness was significantly higher among people living in small towns and rural areas than among those living in suburban and urban communities. Younger respondents (18-29 years old), single adults, unemployed individuals, and those with lower levels of education were more likely to experience loneliness. CONCLUSIONS From an international and interdisciplinary perspective, policymakers and stakeholders should extend and explore interventions targeting loneliness experienced by single young adults and further examine how this may vary across geographies. The study findings have implications across the fields of gerontechnology, health sciences, social sciences, media communication, computers, and information technology. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.3389/fsoc.2020.574811.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Ramsden Marston
- School of Health, Wellbeing and Social Care, The Open University, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
| | - Pei-Chun Ko
- School of Social Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Shannon Freeman
- School of Nursing, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - Christopher Ross
- School of Nursing, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - Iryna Sharaievska
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States
| | - Matthew Hem Browning
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States
| | - Sarah Earle
- School of Health, Wellbeing and Social Care, The Open University, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
| | - Loredana Ivan
- Communication Department, National University of Political Studies and Public Administration, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Rubal Kanozia
- Department of Mass Communication and Media Studies, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, India
| | | | - Hasan Arslan
- Department of Educational Sciences, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Burcu Bilir-Koca
- Department of Educational Sciences, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Paula Alexandra Silva
- Department of Informatics Engineering, Center for Informatics and Systems at the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandra C Buttigieg
- Department of Health Systems Management and Leadership, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Franziska Großschädl
- Institute of Nursing Science and Age and Care Research Group, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Gerhilde Schüttengruber
- Institute of Nursing Science and Age and Care Research Group, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
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Wang Y, Zhang C, Hikichi H, Kawachi I, Li X. Longitudinal Associations Between Disaster Damage and Falls/Fear of Falling in Older Adults: 9-Year Follow-Up of Survivors of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami. Innov Aging 2023; 7:igad020. [PMID: 37056712 PMCID: PMC10089294 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igad020] [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: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Fear of falling and falls are common in older adults. However, their associations with natural disaster exposures remain poorly understood. This study aims to examine longitudinal associations between disaster damage with fear of falling/falls among older disaster survivors. Research Design and Methods In this natural experiment study, the baseline survey (4,957 valid responses) took place 7 months before the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, and 3 follow-ups were conducted in 2013, 2016, and 2020. Exposures were different types of disaster damage and community social capital. Outcomes were fear of falling and falls (including incident and recurrent falls). We used lagged outcomes in logistic models adjusting for covariates and further examined instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) as a mediator. Results The baseline sample had a mean (standard deviation) age of 74.8 (7.1) years; 56.4% were female. Financial hardship was associated with fear of falling (odds ratio (OR), 1.75; 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.33, 2.28]) and falls (OR, 1.29; 95% CI [1.05, 1.58]), especially recurrent falls (OR, 3.53; 95% CI [1.90, 6.57]). Relocation was inversely linked with fear of falling (OR, 0.57; 95% CI [0.34, 0.94]). Social cohesion was protectively associated with fear of falling (OR, 0.82; 95% CI [0.71, 0.95]) and falls (OR, 0.88; 95% CI [0.78, 0.98]) whereas social participation increased the risk of these issues. IADL partially mediated observed associations between disaster damage and fear of falling/falls. Discussion and Implications Experiences of material damage rather than psychological trauma were associated with falls and fear of falling, and the increased risk of recurrent falls revealed a process of cumulative disadvantage. Findings could inform targeted strategies for protecting older disaster survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Wang
- Department of Sociology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Chenggang Zhang
- Department of Sociology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Hiroyuki Hikichi
- School of Medicine, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Ichiro Kawachi
- Department of Sociology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- Department of Sociology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Oswald V, Wagner M. Internet usage among the oldest-old: does functional health moderate the relationship between internet usage and autonomy? Eur J Ageing 2023; 20:3. [PMID: 36802304 PMCID: PMC9943823 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-023-00748-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, research on internet usage in old age and its associations with well-being outcomes has increased. However, the oldest-old age group (80 years and older) is frequently underrepresented, and autonomy and functional health are rarely considered in these studies. By applying moderation analyses with a representative dataset of the oldest-old in Germany (N = 1863), our study has analyzed the hypothesis that the autonomy of older individuals, in particular of those with limited functional health, can be enhanced by internet usage. The moderation analyses indicate that the positive association between internet usage and autonomy is greater for older individuals with lower functional health. This association remained significant after controlling for social support, housing situation, education, gender, and age. Explanations for these results are discussed, and imply that further research is needed to understand the relationships between internet usage, functional health, and autonomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Oswald
- Cologne Center for Ethics, Rights, Economics, and Social Sciences of Health, University of Cologne, Universitätsstraße 91, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Michael Wagner
- Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences, Institute of Sociology and Social Psychology (ISS), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Older Adults' Use of a Research-Based Web Platform for Social Interaction. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11030408. [PMID: 36766983 PMCID: PMC9913984 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11030408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Loneliness and social isolation are triggers for unfavorable changes in older adults' health and well-being. Information and communication technology (ICT) can be used by older adults to mitigate the negative effects of loneliness and social isolation. However, ICT needs to be customized to the specific needs and conditions of older adults. The aim of this study was to explore older adults' use of a new, co-designed and research-based web platform for social interaction from the perspectives of older adults, researchers, and social services personnel. The study is an intervention study with a multimethod approach in which 20 older adults used the web platform for social interaction "the Fik@ room" for eight weeks. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected pretest, during the test, and posttest. The Fik@ room met the expectations of those older adults who completed the study. It enabled them to expand their social network and develop new friendships, but their experiences of loneliness were not reduced. The involvement of social services personnel in recruitment and support was important in facilitating older adults' use of the Fik@ room. Our study contributes knowledge about a new, co-designed and research-based web platform, customized specifically for older adults, which is valuable in guiding the design and delivery of future web platforms for social interaction among older adults.
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23
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Chang H, Do Y, Ahn J. Digital Storytelling as an Intervention for Older Adults: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1344. [PMID: 36674100 PMCID: PMC9859096 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The population of older adults is rapidly increasing worldwide. Owing to fewer interactions between generations, older adults experience ageism and various psychological issues, such as depression and loneliness. Digital storytelling (DST) has the potential to share vivid lived experiences, support the forming of social relationships, and lead to improved well-being. This scoping review examines the potential psychosocial benefits of individual DST interventions for older adults and people with dementia. We adopted the methodological framework for scoping reviews outlined in the Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) manual. A scoping review was performed using the following bibliographic databases: Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Research Information Sharing Service, and National Assembly Library. There were 395 references retrieved, of which 19 articles were selected after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. Our findings revealed that the most common effects of DST on older adults included the promotion of mental health, an increased amount of meaningful community connections, greater digital literacy, the mitigation of negative ageism, and enhanced intellectual ability. We suggest randomized controlled trials are conducted to confirm the efficacy of intergenerational DST intervention and the effects of DST interventions at multilevel outcomes, including the community level.
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Affiliation(s)
- HeeKyung Chang
- College of Nursing, Gerontologic Health Research Center in Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju-si 52727, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - YoungJoo Do
- College of Nursing, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju-si 52727, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - JinYeong Ahn
- Gerontologic Health Research Center in Institute of Health Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju-si 52727, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
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24
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Petersen B, Khalili-Mahani N, Murphy C, Sawchuk K, Phillips N, Li KZH, Hebblethwaite S. The association between information and communication technologies, loneliness and social connectedness: A scoping review. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1063146. [PMID: 37034933 PMCID: PMC10075275 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1063146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Older adults are at a higher risk of loneliness, compared to other demographics. The use of Internet Communication and Technologies (ICTs) among older adults is steadily increasing and given ICTs provide a means of enhancing social connectedness suggests they may have positive effects on reducing loneliness. Therefore, the aim of this scoping review was to examine the research that explores how ICTs may be implicated in mitigating loneliness and increasing social connectedness among older adults. After the examination of 54 articles, we identified three major themes within the literature: (1) ICTs were associated with a reduction in loneliness and increase in wellbeing. (2) ICTs promoted social connectedness by facilitating conversations. (3) Factors such as training, self-efficacy, self-esteem, autonomy, and the design/features, or affordances, of ICTs contribute toward the associations between ICT use and wellbeing. The heterogeneity of methodologies, statistical reporting, the small sample sizes of interventional and observational studies, and the diversity of the experimental contexts underline the challenges of quantitative research in this field and highlights the necessity of tailoring ICT interventions to the needs and contexts of the older users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berkley Petersen
- Laboratory for Adult Development and Cognitive Aging, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Berkley Petersen,
| | - Najmeh Khalili-Mahani
- Media Health Lab, Department of Design and Computation Arts, Milieux Institute for Arts, Culture and Technology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill Centre for Integrative Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Caitlin Murphy
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation (CRIR), Lethbridge-Layton-Mackay Rehabilitation Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Kim Sawchuk
- Aging and Communication Technologies (ACT), Department of Communication Studies, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Natalie Phillips
- Laboratory of Cognition, Aging and Psychophysiology (CAP), Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Karen Z. H. Li
- Laboratory for Adult Development and Cognitive Aging, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Pajalic Z, de Sousa DA, Strøm BS, Lausund H, Breievne G, Kisa S, Saplacan D, Larsen MH, Jøranson N. Welfare technology interventions among older people living at home-A systematic review of RCT studies. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2023; 2:e0000184. [PMID: 36812629 PMCID: PMC9931340 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The main goal of health services is for the elderly to maintain their mental and physical health and live at home independently for as long as possible. Various technical welfare solutions have been introduced and tested to support an independent life. The aim of this systematic review was to examine different types of interventions and assess the effectiveness of welfare technology (WT) interventions for older people living at home. This study was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020190316) and followed the PRISMA statement. Primary randomized control trial (RCT) studies published between 2015 and 2020 were identified through the following databases: Academic, AMED, Cochrane Reviews, EBSCOhost, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Ovid MEDLINE via PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Twelve out of 687 papers met the criteria for eligibility. We used risk-of-bias assessment (RoB 2) for the included studies. Based on the RoB 2 outcomes that showed a high risk of bias (>50%) and high heterogeneity of quantitative data, we decided to narratively summarize the study characteristics, outcome measures, and implications for practice. The included studies were conducted in six countries, namely the USA, Sweden, Korea, Italy, Singapore, and the UK. One was conducted in three European countries (the Netherlands, Sweden, and Switzerland). A total of 8437 participants were sampled, and individual study sample sizes ranged from 12 to 6742. Most of the studies were two-armed RCTs, except for two that were three-armed. The duration of the welfare technology tested in the studies ranged from four weeks to six months. The employed technologies were commercial solutions, including telephones, smartphones, computers, telemonitors, and robots. The type of interventions were balance training, physical exercise and function, cognitive training, monitoring of symptoms, activation of emergency medical systems, self-care, reduction of death risk, and medical alert protection systems. The latter studies were the first of their kind and suggested that physician-led telemonitoring could reduce length of hospital stay. In summary, welfare technology seems to offer solutions to supporting elderly people at home. The results showed a wide range of uses for technologies for improving mental and physical health. All studies showed encouraging results for improving the participants' health status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zada Pajalic
- VID Specialized University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Sustainable Healthcare and Welfare Technology (SHWT) Research Group, Oslo, Norway
| | - Diana Aguiar de Sousa
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Hospital de Santa Maria, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Hilde Lausund
- VID Specialized University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Sustainable Healthcare and Welfare Technology (SHWT) Research Group, Oslo, Norway
| | - Grete Breievne
- Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Drammen, Norway
| | - Sezer Kisa
- Oslo Metropolitan University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Diana Saplacan
- Department of Informatics, University of Oslo, Robotics and Intelligent Systems (ROBIN) Research Group, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Nina Jøranson
- VID Specialized University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Sustainable Healthcare and Welfare Technology (SHWT) Research Group, Oslo, Norway
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Hong D, Lee SH. Effectiveness of the non-face-to-face comprehensive elderly care application "smart silver care" for community-dwelling elderly: A randomized controlled trial. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231197340. [PMID: 37654720 PMCID: PMC10467247 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231197340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Quality of life for the elderly has become an important issue, and services aimed at improving it have typically been provided face-to-face. However, coronavirus disease 2019 has limited the use of face-to-face services, and the need to convert such systems to online interfaces has emerged. Objective This study evaluates the effectiveness of a non-face-to-face comprehensive elderly care application called "Smart Silver Care." Methods This study was designed as a randomized controlled trial. Sixty community-dwelling elderly individuals were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups in a 1:1 ratio. The participants participated in the "Smart Silver Care" intervention using a tablet and smartwatch based on the programs we provided. The participants performed five tasks, five days a week, consisting of physical, emotional, and cognitive programs. Participants could communicate with the researchers in real-time from their homes, and the researchers could remotely supervise their performance. Results We found positive effects on the relevant scales testing fall risk (Activities-Specific Balance Confidence [ABC] Scale, p = 0.028; Timed Up and Go [TUG] test, p = 0.001). However, there was no time × group interaction between the experimental and control groups on the relevant scales for depression and quality of life (Short Form-Geriatric Depression Scale [SGDS]-K: p = 0.225; EuroQol five-dimension five-level [EQ-5D-5L], p = 0.172). While the SGDS-K and EQ-5D-5L did not show statistical significance, we found improvement trends in the experimental group. Conclusions The findings of this study show that Smart Silver Care significantly improved the participants' TUG and ABC scores in community-dwelling elderly, and a qualitative evaluation confirmed that it could be conveniently used by the elderly. Thus, Smart Silver Care offers a feasible intervention to improve the quality of life of the elderly, including physical aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dahye Hong
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Graduate School of Public Health, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon Heui Lee
- Department of Nursing Science, College of Nursing, Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
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27
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Ibáñez-del Valle V, Corchón S, Zaharia G, Cauli O. Social and Emotional Loneliness in Older Community Dwelling-Individuals: The Role of Socio-Demographics. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16622. [PMID: 36554512 PMCID: PMC9779629 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social determinants have a major influence on individuals' health, and among them, loneliness has an important impact on the health of the elderly. OBJECTIVES The aims were to determine loneliness and its social and emotional components in a sample of elderly people and to assess its prevalence and associations with sociodemographic variables. METHODS Analytical, cross-sectional, observational research was carried out based on a population over 60 years of age in Valencia (Spain). Loneliness was assessed with the De Jong-Gierveld Loneliness Scale. RESULTS Five-hundred and thirty community-dwelling individuals participated. The mean age of the sample was 72.7 years (84.2% women); 36.2% suffered from moderate loneliness and 6.6% suffered from extreme loneliness. The sociodemographic variables most significantly related to loneliness were being single, separated, or divorced (p < 0.01). Among widowers, loneliness was inversely associated with years of widowhood (p < 0.01). Having sons/daughters was a significant protective factor (p < 0.05), while having grandchildren or siblings did not have a significant influence. The ability to walk and smartphone and video call use were not associated with loneliness. CONCLUSIONS There is a high prevalence of unwanted loneliness in community-dwelling individuals, and some social factors play an important role. Interventions against loneliness among older people are a priority for welfare and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Ibáñez-del Valle
- Frailty Research Organized Group (FROG), University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Nursing, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Silvia Corchón
- Frailty Research Organized Group (FROG), University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Nursing, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Georgiana Zaharia
- Department of Nursing, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Omar Cauli
- Frailty Research Organized Group (FROG), University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Nursing, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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28
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Bernardo J, Apóstolo J, Loureiro R, Santana E, Yaylagul NK, Dantas C, Ventura F, Duque FM, Jøranson N, Zechner M, van Staalduinen W, De Luca V, Illario M, Silva R. eHealth Platforms to Promote Autonomous Life and Active Aging: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15940. [PMID: 36498018 PMCID: PMC9738367 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
New technologies, namely eHealth platforms, are being used more than ever before. These platforms enable older people to have a more independent lifestyle, enhance their participation, and improve their well-being. Information and communication technologies are expected to be linked to the triad of aging, social inclusion, and active participation, which is in line with the implementation of Smart Healthy and Age-Friendly Environments. This scoping review aimed to map eHealth platforms designed to promote autonomous life and active aging. The Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and the PRISMA-ScR checklist were used. A search was conducted on MEDLINE (via PubMed), CINAHL Complete (via EBSCOhost), Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (via EBSCOhost), SciELO, DART-Europe, CAPES, and MedNar databases. Fourteen studies were included. This scoping review synthesized information on eHealth platforms designed to promote active living, their domains of intervention, and the outcomes assessed in those studies that have implemented and evaluated these eHealth platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Bernardo
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Apóstolo
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
- Portugal Centre for Evidence Based Practice: A JBI Centre of Excellence (PCEBP), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Loureiro
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Elaine Santana
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | | | - Filipa Ventura
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Filipa Margarida Duque
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nina Jøranson
- Faculty of Health Studies, VID Specialized University, N-3019 Oslo, Norway
| | - Minna Zechner
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Vincenzo De Luca
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Maddalena Illario
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Silva
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
- Portugal Centre for Evidence Based Practice: A JBI Centre of Excellence (PCEBP), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
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29
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Diehl C, Tavares R, Abreu T, Almeida AMP, Silva TE, Santinha G, Rocha NP, Seidel K, MacLachlan M, Silva AG, Ribeiro O. Perceptions on Extending the Use of Technology after the COVID-19 Pandemic Resolves: A Qualitative Study with Older Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14152. [PMID: 36361030 PMCID: PMC9655749 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114152] [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: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic of the last two years has affected the lives of many individuals, especially the most vulnerable and at-risk population groups, e.g., older adults. While social distancing and isolation are shown to be effective at decreasing the transmission of the virus, these actions have also increased loneliness and social isolation. To combat social distancing from family and friends, older adults have turned to technology for help. In the health sector, these individuals also had a variety of options that strengthened eHealth care services. This study analyzed the technologies used during the COVID-19 pandemic by a group of older people, as well as explored their expectations of use after the pandemic period. Qualitative and ethnographic interviews were conducted with 10 Portuguese older adults, and data were collected over a period of seven months between 2020 and 2021. The research demonstrated that the use of current and new technologies in the post-pandemic future is likely to be related to overcoming: (i) insecurity regarding privacy issues; (ii) difficulties in using technologies due to the level of use of digital technology; and (iii) the human distancing and impersonal consequences of using these technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceci Diehl
- Digital Media and Interaction Research Centre (DigiMedia), Department of Communication and Art, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Rita Tavares
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Taiane Abreu
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana Margarida Pisco Almeida
- Digital Media and Interaction Research Centre (DigiMedia), Department of Communication and Art, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Telmo Eduardo Silva
- Digital Media and Interaction Research Centre (DigiMedia), Department of Communication and Art, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Gonçalo Santinha
- Governance, Competitiveness and Public Policies (GOVCOPP), Department of Social, Political and Territorial Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Nelson Pacheco Rocha
- Institute of Electronics and Informatics Engineering of Aveiro (IEETA), Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Katja Seidel
- ALL Institute, Department of Anthropology, Maynooth University, W23 F2H6 Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Mac MacLachlan
- Assisting Living and Learning Institute (ALL Institute), Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, W23 F2H6 Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Anabela G. Silva
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), School of Health Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Oscar Ribeiro
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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30
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Bradley L. Faith Community Nurses Making a Difference for Older African Americans in a Pandemic. J Christ Nurs 2022; 39:E80-E84. [PMID: 36048609 DOI: 10.1097/cnj.0000000000001010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT During and after COVID-19, African Americans experienced a disparate amount of social isolation and loneliness and subsequent increases in morbidity and mortality. Faith community nurses are equipped to assist community providers, health practitioners, and local officials in addressing gaps in older African Americans' financial, social, physical, and spiritual needs during social distancing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Bradley
- Linda Bradley, MS, MPH, RN, PHCNS-BC , is an assistant professor in the department of nursing at New York City College of Technology. Her interests include individual and community-focused health and wellness that address health disparities
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31
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Yang C, Lai DWL, Sun Y, Ma CY, Chau AKC. Mobile Application Use and Loneliness among Older Adults in the Digital Age: Insights from a Survey in Hong Kong during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:7656. [PMID: 35805316 PMCID: PMC9265966 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19137656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Existing literature on the associations between use of mobile applications (i.e., mobile apps) and loneliness among older adults (OAs) has been mainly conducted before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since mobile apps have been increasingly used by OAs during the pandemic, subsequent effects on social and emotional loneliness need updated investigation. This paper examines the relationship between mobile app use and loneliness among Hong Kong's OAs during the pandemic. In our research, 364 OAs with current use experience of mobile apps were interviewed through a questionnaire survey conducted during July and August 2021, which assessed the use frequency and duration of 14 mobile app types and levels of emotional and social loneliness. The survey illustrated communication (e.g., WhatsApp) and information apps were the most commonly used. Emotional loneliness was associated with the use of video entertainment (frequency and duration), instant communication (duration), and information apps (duration). Association between video entertainment apps' use and emotional loneliness was stronger among older and less educated OAs. Our findings highlight the distinctive relationships between different types of apps and loneliness among Hong Kong's OAs during the pandemic, which warrant further exploration via research into post-pandemic patterns and comparative studies in other regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Yang
- Department of Geography, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong;
| | - Daniel W. L. Lai
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong;
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong;
- Research Institute for Land and Space, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Chun-Yin Ma
- Department of Geography, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong;
| | - Anson Kai Chun Chau
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong;
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32
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Aung MN, Koyanagi Y, Nagamine Y, Nam EW, Mulati N, Kyaw MY, Moolphate S, Shirayama Y, Nonaka K, Field M, Cheung P, Yuasa M. Digitally Inclusive, Healthy Aging Communities (DIHAC): A Cross-Cultural Study in Japan, Republic of Korea, Singapore, and Thailand. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:6976. [PMID: 35742230 PMCID: PMC9223148 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19126976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
One out of three people in Japan will be an older person before 2040. Half of those currently do not utilize the internet, smartphone apps, or digital technology. On the other hand, more than 70% of seniors in Republic of Korea use the internet, and 55% in Singapore had access to it in 2019. The use of digital technology for health promotion has the potential to promote individual and community empowerment, advocating for healthy, active aging. Maintaining equity in health promotion practice requires the digital inclusion of every senior. Therefore, we propose a cross-cultural study to explain the contextual influences of digital inclusion and its consequences on healthy aging in Japan, Korea, Singapore, and Thailand. Quantitatively: digital skills, e-health literacy, participation in health promotion, and quality of life will be analyzed in structural equation models. Qualitatively: thematic analysis will be developed to identify cultural patterns and contextual factors, making sense of what older persons in different countries materialize, say, do, think, and feel to reveal deeper beliefs and core values about digital inclusion and healthy aging. Logics and methods from this protocol would be useful to replicate the study in many countries globally. Evidence from this study is expected to pave the way to digitally inclusive, healthy aging communities (DIHAC) across Japan and Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myo Nyein Aung
- Department of Global Health Research, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo Ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (N.M.); (M.Y.K.); (Y.S.); (M.Y.)
- Advanced Research Institute for Health Sciences, Juntendo University, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo Ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
- Faculty of International Liberal Arts, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Yuka Koyanagi
- Department of Global Health Research, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo Ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (N.M.); (M.Y.K.); (Y.S.); (M.Y.)
- Department of Judo Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Tokyo Ariake University of Medical and Health Sciences, Tokyo 135-0063, Japan
| | - Yuiko Nagamine
- Department of Family Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan;
| | - Eun Woo Nam
- Department of Health Administration, Software Digital Healthcare Convergence College, Yonsei University, Wonju 26493, Korea;
| | - Nadila Mulati
- Department of Global Health Research, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo Ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (N.M.); (M.Y.K.); (Y.S.); (M.Y.)
| | - Myat Yadana Kyaw
- Department of Global Health Research, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo Ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (N.M.); (M.Y.K.); (Y.S.); (M.Y.)
| | - Saiyud Moolphate
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Science and Technology, Chiang Mai Rajabhat University, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand;
| | - Yoshihisa Shirayama
- Department of Global Health Research, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo Ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (N.M.); (M.Y.K.); (Y.S.); (M.Y.)
- Faculty of International Liberal Arts, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Kumiko Nonaka
- Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan;
| | - Malcolm Field
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Kyorin University, Tokyo 181-8611, Japan;
- Faculty of International Liberal Arts, Waseda University, Tokyo 169-0051, Japan
| | - Paul Cheung
- Asia Competitiveness Institute (ACI), Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, Singapore 259772, Singapore;
| | - Motoyuki Yuasa
- Department of Global Health Research, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Hongo 2-1-1, Bunkyo Ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; (Y.K.); (N.M.); (M.Y.K.); (Y.S.); (M.Y.)
- Faculty of International Liberal Arts, Juntendo University, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
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33
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Gadbois EA, Jimenez F, Brazier JF, Davoodi NM, Nunn AS, Mills WL, Dosa D, Thomas KS. Findings from Talking Tech: A Technology Training Pilot Intervention to Reduce Loneliness and Social Isolation among Homebound Older Adults. Innov Aging 2022; 6:igac040. [PMID: 35855113 PMCID: PMC9291367 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igac040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Social isolation and loneliness are common among older adults and associated with negative health outcomes including cognitive decline, depression, suicide ideation, and mortality. Information and communication technology interventions are often used to combat loneliness and social isolation; however, homebound older adults face barriers to access. This study reports findings from a novel pilot intervention, called Talking Tech, designed to reduce loneliness and social isolation in homebound older adults by providing one-on-one, in-home technology training, a tablet, and the internet, to promote digital literacy and participation in a virtual senior center. Research Design and Methods Twenty-one homebound older adults participated in this 14-week, volunteer-delivered program. We used qualitative interviews with participants, volunteers, and program staff, weekly progress reports from volunteers, and quantitative pre- and postintervention surveys with participants to examine experiences and to evaluate the impact of the intervention on loneliness and social isolation. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis and pre- and postintervention survey data were compared. Results Participants reported increased technological literacy and use, increased access to online activities, and improved facilitation of social connections to existing and new networks. Additionally, during interviews, many participants reported that participating in Talking Tech alleviated their loneliness. While not statistically significant, our quantitative analysis revealed trends toward decreased participant feelings of loneliness and increased technology use. Additionally, intervention adoption and retention were high, with only one participant withdrawing from the intervention. Discussion and Implications This evaluation of the novel Talking Tech pilot intervention provides critical insights into strategies to reduce loneliness and isolation for older adults, with implications for future research, policy, and practice. Findings demonstrate that individualized technology training may be an acceptable way to improve well-being for homebound older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Gadbois
- Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health
| | | | - Joan F Brazier
- Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health
| | - Natalie M Davoodi
- Department of Emergency Medicine , The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
| | - Amy S Nunn
- Behavioral and Social Sciences , Brown University School of Public Health
- Division of Infectious Diseases at Brown University Medical School
| | - Whitney L Mills
- Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health
- Center for Innovation in Long-Term Services & Supports , Providence VA Medical Center
| | - David Dosa
- Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health
- Department of Primary Care , Providence VA Medical Center
| | - Kali S Thomas
- Health Services, Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health
- Center for Innovation in Long-Term Services & Supports , Providence VA Medical Center
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Glass AP, Lawlor L. The Impact of the First COVID-19 Stay-at-Home Restrictions on Intergenerational Interactions. JOURNAL OF INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15350770.2022.2070573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne P. Glass
- University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, USA
| | - Lauretta Lawlor
- University of North Carolina Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, USA
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Kim YK, Han SH. Internet Use and Cognitive Functioning in Later Life: Focus on Asymmetric Effects and Contextual Factors. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2022; 62:425-435. [PMID: 34614179 PMCID: PMC8963164 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnab149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Despite emerging literature linking Internet usage and cognitive functioning in later life, research seldom takes changes in older adults' Internet use into account. How changes in Internet use influence older adults' cognitive decline over time, particularly in the context of sociodemographic factors that shape Information and Communication Technology (ICT) use, remains an open question. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Using 9 waves of panel data from the Health and Retirement Study (2002-2018), we examined within-person asymmetric effects of transitioning into and out of Internet use on cognitive functioning, and whether the associations vary across birth cohorts and by living arrangement. RESULTS Transitioning into Internet use (i.e., Internet use onset) was associated with improved cognitive functioning at a given wave and decelerated cognitive decline over time. Transitioning out of the Internet (i.e., Internet use cessation) was associated with worse cognitive functioning at a given wave and accelerated cognitive decline over time. Furthermore, birth cohort and living arrangement moderated these associations. The detrimental effect of transitioning out of Internet use was worse for older adults born in 1941 or before. The cognitive benefits of transitioning into Internet use were greater for those older adults who live alone. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS These findings highlight the interplay between technology, social environment, and cognitive functioning in later life. The salubrious effects of using the Internet, as well as the deleterious effects of ceasing to use such technology, underscore the importance of promoting digital literacy and access to ICT among the older adult population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijung K Kim
- Texas Aging & Longevity Center, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Sae Hwang Han
- Department of Human Development and Family Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
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Site A, Lohan ES, Jolanki O, Valkama O, Hernandez RR, Latikka R, Alekseeva D, Vasudevan S, Afolaranmi S, Ometov A, Oksanen A, Martinez Lastra J, Nurmi J, Fernandez FN. Managing Perceived Loneliness and Social-Isolation Levels for Older Adults: A Survey with Focus on Wearables-Based Solutions. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:s22031108. [PMID: 35161852 PMCID: PMC8839843 DOI: 10.3390/s22031108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
As an inevitable process, the number of older adults is increasing in many countries worldwide. Two of the main problems that society is being confronted with more and more, in this respect, are the inter-related aspects of feelings of loneliness and social isolation among older adults. In particular, the ongoing COVID-19 crisis and its associated restrictions have exacerbated the loneliness and social-isolation problems. This paper is first and foremost a comprehensive survey of loneliness monitoring and management solutions, from the multidisciplinary perspective of technology, gerontology, socio-psychology, and urban built environment. In addition, our paper also investigates machine learning-based technological solutions with wearable-sensor data, suitable to measure, monitor, manage, and/or diminish the levels of loneliness and social isolation, when one also considers the constraints and characteristics coming from social science, gerontology, and architecture/urban built environments points of view. Compared to the existing state of the art, our work is unique from the cross-disciplinary point of view, because our authors' team combines the expertise from four distinct domains, i.e., gerontology, social psychology, architecture, and wireless technology in addressing the two inter-related problems of loneliness and social isolation in older adults. This work combines a cross-disciplinary survey of the literature in the four aforementioned domains with a proposed wearable-based technological solution, introduced first as a generic framework and, then, exemplified through a simple proof of concept with dummy data. As the main findings, we provide a comprehensive view on challenges and solutions in utilizing various technologies, particularly those carried by users, also known as wearables, to measure, manage, and/or diminish the social isolation and the perceived loneliness among older adults. In addition, we also summarize the identified solutions which can be used for measuring and monitoring various loneliness- and social isolation-related metrics, and we present and validate, through a simple proof-of-concept mechanism, an approach based on machine learning for predicting and estimating loneliness levels. Open research issues in this field are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Site
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (D.A.); (A.O.); (J.N.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (E.S.L.)
| | - Elena Simona Lohan
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (D.A.); (A.O.); (J.N.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (E.S.L.)
| | - Outi Jolanki
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (O.J.); (O.V.); (R.L.); (A.O.)
| | - Outi Valkama
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (O.J.); (O.V.); (R.L.); (A.O.)
| | - Rosana Rubio Hernandez
- Faculty of Built Environment, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (R.R.H.); (F.N.F.)
| | - Rita Latikka
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (O.J.); (O.V.); (R.L.); (A.O.)
| | - Daria Alekseeva
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (D.A.); (A.O.); (J.N.)
| | - Saigopal Vasudevan
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (S.V.); (S.A.); (J.M.L.)
| | - Samuel Afolaranmi
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (S.V.); (S.A.); (J.M.L.)
| | - Aleksandr Ometov
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (D.A.); (A.O.); (J.N.)
| | - Atte Oksanen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (O.J.); (O.V.); (R.L.); (A.O.)
| | - Jose Martinez Lastra
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (S.V.); (S.A.); (J.M.L.)
| | - Jari Nurmi
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (D.A.); (A.O.); (J.N.)
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Viklund EWE, Forsman AK. Exploring the Nuanced Links Between Internet Use and Subjective Well-Being Among Older Adults: A Nordic Population-Based Study. Front Psychol 2022; 12:797269. [PMID: 35153921 PMCID: PMC8835563 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.797269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim The aim was to explore the various associations between subjective well-being and internet use among older adults in two regions in Finland and Sweden. Methods The data was collected through a population-based survey (N = 9,386) as part of the GERDA project conducted in 2016. The connection between subjective well-being (measured by perceived meaningfulness, happiness and life satisfaction) and internet use (distinguishing between internet users, non-users and users with support, and diverse internet activities) was studied by conducting binary regression analyses, calculating odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. The analyses also controlled for key subjective well-being covariates. Results Statistically significant associations were found between perceived life meaningfulness and internet use. When looking into the specific internet-based activities under study, activities related to leisure and entertainment showed statistically significant associations to perceived meaningfulness as well as perceived happiness, also after controlling for potential covariates. However, internet use and the different internet activities failed to show statistical significant associations to life satisfaction in the adjusted regression model. Conclusion The things we do on the internet (the activities) as well as how we conceptualize and measure subjective well-being in this type of research studies seem to matter when it comes to the relationship between subjective well-being and internet use in later life. Internet use and internet activities displayed various connections to the subjective well-being proxies used in this study. Therefore, the complexity and multidimensionality of both subjective well-being and internet use and related links need to be carefully explored in order to deepen our understanding of experienced well-being among older adults in a digitized world.
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Schönstein A, Schlomann A, Wahl HW, Bärnighausen T. Awareness of age-related change in very different cultural-political contexts: A cross-cultural examination of aging in Burkina Faso and Germany. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:928564. [PMID: 36741568 PMCID: PMC9894898 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.928564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Combining recent developments in research on personal views on aging (VoA) and a cross-country comparative approach, this study examined awareness of age-related change (AARC) in samples from rural Burkina Faso and Germany. The aims of this study were (1) to examine for an assumed proportional shift in the relationship between gains/losses toward more losses as predicted by life span psychology; (2) to estimate the association between AARC dimensions and subjective age; and (3) to examine the association between health variables and AARC. A cross-sectional method involving a large, representative sample from rural Burkina Faso that included participants aged 40 and older (N = 3,028) and a smaller convenience sample of German respondents aged 50 years and older (N = 541) were used to address these questions. A proportional shift toward more AARC-losses was more clearly observable in the sample from Burkina Faso as compared to the German reference. In both samples, subjective age was consistently more strongly related to AARC-losses than to AARC-gains. Within the sample from Burkina Faso, differential associations of AARC-gains and AARC-losses to health variables could be shown. In conclusion, the findings support key tenets of life span psychology including that age-related gains occur even late in life and that a shift toward more losses occurs with increasing age. Also, feeling subjectively younger may indeed be more strongly guided by lowered negative aging experiences than by increased positive ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton Schönstein
- Network Aging Research, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Psychology, Mannheim University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anna Schlomann
- Network Aging Research, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute for Educational Sciences, Heidelberg University of Education, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hans-Werner Wahl
- Network Aging Research, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.,Institute of Psychology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
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Hajek A, König H. Frequency of contact with friends and relatives via internet and psychosocial factors in middle-aged and older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings from the German Ageing Survey. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2022; 37:10.1002/gps.5623. [PMID: 34505322 PMCID: PMC8646763 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous studies have examined the association between frequency of contact with friends and relatives via internet and psychosocial factors (in terms of loneliness, life satisfaction and depressive symptoms). However, far less is known about such a link during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly based on nationally representative samples. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine this association among middle-aged/older adults. METHODS/DESIGN Data were taken from the short survey of the German Ageing Survey (June/July 2020, 3134 individuals in the analytical sample). The De Jong Gierveld scale was used to quantify loneliness, the Satisfaction with Life Scale was used to quantify life satisfaction and the 10-item version of the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression was used to quantify depressive symptoms. RESULTS Regressions showed that-compared to daily users-less frequent users of the internet for contact with friends and relatives reported increased loneliness, lower life satisfaction and more depressive symptoms. With regard to covariates, better psychosocial factors were associated with medium education (compared to low education), living with partner in the same household (compared to singles), better self-rated health, and favourable COVID-19 factors (in terms of decreased feeling that the Corona crisis is a threat for oneself, not having an infection with the coronavirus and an increased feeling that you can influence an infection with the coronavirus yourself). CONCLUSIONS Data suggest that individuals with a high frequency of contact with friends and relatives via internet reported better psychosocial factors. Future research in other cultural settings are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services ResearchUniversity Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health EconomicsHamburgGermany
| | - Hans‐Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services ResearchUniversity Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health EconomicsHamburgGermany
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40
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[Quality of life in old age]. Z Gerontol Geriatr 2021; 54:71-75. [PMID: 34705078 DOI: 10.1007/s00391-021-01980-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Woopen C, Wagner M, Zank S. [The flourishing life : Society, politics and the practice of old age]. Z Gerontol Geriatr 2021; 54:138-143. [PMID: 34623481 PMCID: PMC8551140 DOI: 10.1007/s00391-021-01979-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Im abschließenden Beitrag stellen die Autor*innen das Konzept „gelingende Lebensführung“ in den Mittelpunkt. Die Kernergebnisse der vorhergehenden Beiträge werden zusammengefasst und im Rahmen einer kritischen Diskussion in dieses Konzept eingeordnet. Vor dem Hintergrund werden Empfehlungen für die politische und gesellschaftliche Gestaltung von Rahmenbedingungen formuliert, die einer gelingenden Lebensführung im sehr hohen Alter dienlich sind und sie fördern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Woopen
- Forschungsstelle Ethik, Uniklinik Köln; ceres - Cologne Center for Ethics, Rights, Economics, and Social Sciences of Health, Universität zu Köln, Albertus-Magnus-Platz, 50923, Köln, Deutschland.
| | - Michael Wagner
- Institut für Soziologie und Sozialpsychologie, Universität zu Köln, Albertus-Magnus-Platz, 50923, Köln, Deutschland.
| | - Susanne Zank
- Humanwissenschaftliche Fakultät, Rehabilitationswissenschaftliche Gerontologie, Universität zu Köln, Albertus-Magnus-Platz, 50923, Köln, Deutschland.
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Schlomann A, Bünning M, Hipp L, Wahl HW. Aging during COVID-19 in Germany: a longitudinal analysis of psychosocial adaptation. Eur J Ageing 2021; 19:1077-1086. [PMID: 36692734 PMCID: PMC8485773 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-021-00655-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Existing theories of aging suggest that there may be similarities and differences in how COVID-19 impacts older people's psychosocial adaptation compared to younger age groups, particularly middle-aged individuals. To assess the degree to which these impacts vary, we analyzed data from 3098 participants between the ages of 40 and 79 from an online survey in Germany. Data were collected at three measurement occasions between the start of the nationwide lockdown in mid-March 2020 and the end of the lockdown in early August 2020. The survey focused on everyday experiences during the COVID-19 crisis and collected various satisfaction ratings (e.g., general life satisfaction, satisfaction with family life, satisfaction with social contacts). At baseline, participants also provided retrospective ratings of satisfaction for the period before the COVID-19 crisis. In our analyses, we compared satisfaction ratings of middle-aged (40-64 years) and older individuals (65-79 years) and found that both middle-aged and older participants experienced the greatest decreases in satisfaction with social contacts, with more pronounced decreases seen in middle-aged participants. A similar pattern was observed for general life satisfaction, but the overall decreases were less pronounced in both groups compared to the decreases in satisfaction with social contacts. We also observed a partial recovery effect in all measures at the last measurement occasion, and this effect was more pronounced in older adults. Findings were also confirmed using age as a continuous variable and checking for linear and nonlinear effects of outcomes across the age range. Although ageism arose during the pandemic in the sense that older adults were labeled as a "risk group," particularly at the start of the outbreak, we found consistently with other studies that middle-aged adults' satisfaction decreased to a greater extent than that of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Schlomann
- Network Aging Research, Heidelberg University, Bergheimer Straße 20, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany ,Institute for Educational Sciences, Heidelberg University of Education, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mareike Bünning
- WZB Berlin Social Science Center, Berlin, Germany ,German Center of Gerontology (DZA), Berlin, Germany
| | - Lena Hipp
- WZB Berlin Social Science Center, Berlin, Germany ,University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Hans-Werner Wahl
- Network Aging Research, Heidelberg University, Bergheimer Straße 20, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany ,Institute of Psychology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
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Physical distancing is related to fewer electronic and in-person contacts and to increased loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic among older Europeans. Qual Life Res 2021; 31:1033-1042. [PMID: 34417963 PMCID: PMC8379574 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-021-02949-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE During the COVID-19 pandemic older adults are asked to maintain physical distancing, which can be linked to loneliness. While older people are encouraged to use electronic communication to stay socially connected, it remains an open question whether electronic contacts are related to lower loneliness during the pandemic. This study examined the associations of physical distancing during the pandemic with loneliness and the role of in-person and electronic contacts with children and non-kin as explaining these associations across European regions. METHODS The study used data from Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), collected during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Mediation and moderation analyses tested the direct and indirect associations between physical distancing, contact frequency and loneliness, as well as the differences across European regions. RESULTS The results indicate that adults who reported higher frequency of physical distancing also felt lonelier during the pandemic. This association was partly explained by social contacts-those who practiced physical distancing maintained less in-person contact with children and non-kin and less electronic contact with non-kin, which were related to feeling lonelier. Adults in Southern European countries felt lonelier and reported more frequent contacts. The moderation analyses showed that the link between physical distancing and loneliness was found in the northern region, but not in the southern and eastern regions of Europe. CONCLUSION This study can indicate that attention should be paid to adults who may struggle to maintain social contacts in light of physical distancing guidelines.
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Yoon H, Kim SK, Lee Y, Choi J. Google Glass-Supported Cooperative Training for Health Professionals: A Case Study Based on Using Remote Desktop Virtual Support. J Multidiscip Healthc 2021; 14:1451-1462. [PMID: 34168458 PMCID: PMC8216757 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s311766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Observation of medical trainees’ care performance by experts can be extremely helpful for ensuring safety and providing quality care. The advanced technology of smart glasses enables health professionals to video stream their operations to remote supporters for collaboration and cooperation. This study monitored the clinical situation by using smart glasses for remote cooperative training via video streaming and clinical decision-making through simulation based on a scenario of emergency nursing care for patients with arrhythmia. Participants and Methods The clinical operations of bedside trainees, who is Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2(Glass EE2) wearers, were live streamed via their Google Glasses, which were viewed at a remote site by remote supporters via a desktop computer. Data were obtained from 31 nursing students using eight essay questions regarding their experience as desktop-side remote supporters. Results Most of the participants reported feeling uneasy about identifying clinical situations (84%), patients’ condition (72%), and trainees’ performance (69%). The current system demonstrated sufficient performance with a satisfactory level of image quality and auditory communication, while network and connectivity are areas that require further improvement. The reported barriers to identifying situations on the remote desktop were predominantly a narrow field of view and motion blur in videos captured by Glass EE2s, and using the customized mirror mode. Conclusion The current commercial Glass EE2 can facilitate enriched communication between remotely located supporters and trainees by sharing live videos and audio during clinical operations. Further improvement of hardware and software user interfaces will ensure better applicability of smart glasses and video streaming functions to clinical practice settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyoseok Yoon
- Division of Computer Engineering, Hanshin University, Osan, Korea
| | - Sun Kyung Kim
- Department of Nursing, and Department of Biomedicine, Health & Life Convergence Sciences, BK21 Four, Biomedical and Healthcare Research Institute, Mokpo National University, Jeonnam, Korea
| | - Youngho Lee
- Department of Computer Engineering, Mokpo National University, Jeonnam, Korea
| | - Jongmyung Choi
- Department of Computer Engineering, Mokpo National University, Jeonnam, Korea
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Viklund EWE, Nilsson I, Forsman AK. Nordic population-based study on internet use and perceived meaningfulness in later life: How they are linked and why it matters. Scand J Public Health 2021; 50:381-388. [PMID: 33588643 PMCID: PMC9096589 DOI: 10.1177/1403494820987459] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim was to explore the association between internet use, the use of specific internet-based activities and perceiving life as meaningful, among older adults in two regions in Finland and Sweden. METHODS The data was collected through a population-based survey (N = 9386) as part of the GERDA project conducted in 2016. In order to analyse the associations between perceiving life as meaningful and internet use and related activities, odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval were calculated using binary logistic regression analysis, where socio-demographic factors and health status were controlled for. RESULTS Statistically significant associations were found between perceiving life as meaningful and internet use in later life. When looking further at the specific internet-based activities under study, activities related to leisure and entertainment showed a statistically significant connection to perceived meaningfulness in later life, after controlling for socio-demographic factors and health status. CONCLUSIONS The results indicated that there was a statistically significant positive association between internet use and perceiving life as meaningful in later life. Online activities related to leisure and entertainment seem to be especially associated with perceived meaningfulness. Although causal direction could not be determined, the results suggest that internet use may support the experience of wellbeing in everyday life among older persons, through the unlimited access to interest-driven activities that it provides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia W E Viklund
- Faculty of Education and Welfare Studies, Health Sciences, Åbo Akademi University, Vaasa, Finland
| | - Ingeborg Nilsson
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Occupational Therapy, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anna K Forsman
- Faculty of Education and Welfare Studies, Health Sciences, Åbo Akademi University, Vaasa, Finland
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Marston HR, Ivan L, Fernández-Ardèvol M, Rosales Climent A, Gómez-León M, Blanche-T D, Earle S, Ko PC, Colas S, Bilir B, Öztürk Çalikoglu H, Arslan H, Kanozia R, Kriebernegg U, Großschädl F, Reer F, Quandt T, Buttigieg SC, Silva PA, Gallistl V, Rohner R. COVID-19: Technology, Social Connections, Loneliness, and Leisure Activities: An International Study Protocol. FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2020; 5:574811. [PMID: 33869500 PMCID: PMC8022752 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2020.574811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Drawn from the stress process model, the pandemic has imposed substantial stress to individual economic and mental well-being and has brought unprecedented disruptions to social life. In light of social distancing measures, and in particular physical distancing because of lockdown policies, the use of digital technologies has been regarded as the alternative to maintain economic and social activities. This paper aims to describe the design and implementation of an online survey created as an urgent, international response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The online survey described here responds to the need of understanding the effects of the pandemic on social interactions/relations and to provide findings on the extent to which digital technology is being utilized by citizens across different communities and countries around the world. It also aims to analyze the association of use of digital technologies with psychological well-being and levels of loneliness. The data will be based on the ongoing survey (comprised of several existing and validated instruments on digital use, psychological well-being and loneliness), open for 3 months after roll out (ends September) across 11 countries (Austria, France, Germany, India, Malta, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Turkey, and UK). Participants include residents aged 18 years and older in the countries and snowball sampling is employed via social media platforms. We anticipate that the findings of the survey will provide useful and much needed information on the prevalence of use and intensities of digital technologies among different age groups, gender, socioeconomic groups in a comparative perspective. Moreover, we expect that the future analysis of the data collected will show that different types of digital technologies and intensities of use are associated with psychological well-being and loneliness. To conclude, these findings from the study are expected to bring in our understanding the role of digital technologies in affecting individual social and emotional connections during a crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah R. Marston
- Health and Wellbeing Strategic Research Area, The Open University, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
| | - Loredana Ivan
- Communication Department, The National University of Political Studies and Public Administration (SNSPA), Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mireia Fernández-Ardèvol
- Communication Networks & Social Change (CNSC) Research Group, Internet Interdisciplinary Institute (IN3) Research Institute, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Andrea Rosales Climent
- Communication Networks & Social Change (CNSC) Research Group, Internet Interdisciplinary Institute (IN3) Research Institute, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Madelin Gómez-León
- Communication Networks & Social Change (CNSC) Research Group, Internet Interdisciplinary Institute (IN3) Research Institute, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Daniel Blanche-T
- Communication Networks & Social Change (CNSC) Research Group, Internet Interdisciplinary Institute (IN3) Research Institute, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Sarah Earle
- Health and Wellbeing Strategic Research Area, The Open University, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
| | - Pei-Chun Ko
- Centre for University Core, Singapore University of Social Science, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sophie Colas
- Le Centre de Recherches Individus, Épreuves, Sociétés (CeRIES), University of Lille, Lille, France
- Institute for Anthropological Research in Africa (IARA), KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Burcu Bilir
- Graduate School of Educational Sciences, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Halime Öztürk Çalikoglu
- Graduate School of Educational Sciences, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Hasan Arslan
- Graduate School of Educational Sciences, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Rubal Kanozia
- Department of Mass Communication and Media Studies, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, India
| | - Ulla Kriebernegg
- Age and Care Research Group Graz, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Franziska Großschädl
- Institute of Nursing Science and Age and Care Research Group, Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Felix Reer
- Department of Communication, University of Munster, Munster, Germany
| | - Thorsten Quandt
- Department of Communication, University of Munster, Munster, Germany
| | - Sandra C. Buttigieg
- Department of Health Sciences Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Paula Alexandra Silva
- Department of Informatics Engineering (DEI), Centre for Informatics and Systems (CISUC), Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Vera Gallistl
- Ageing, Generations, Life-Course Research Group, Department of Sociology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rebekka Rohner
- Ageing, Generations, Life-Course Research Group, Department of Sociology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Marston HR, Shore L, White P. How does a (Smart) Age-Friendly Ecosystem Look in a Post-Pandemic Society? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E8276. [PMID: 33182413 PMCID: PMC7664882 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17218276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 has impacted not only the health of citizens, but also the various factors that make up our society, living environments, and ecosystems. This pandemic has shown that future living will need to be agile and flexible to adapt to the various changes in needs of societal populations. Digital technology has played an integral role during COVID-19, assisting various sectors of the community, and demonstrating that smart cities can provide opportunities to respond to many future societal challenges. In the decades ahead, the rise in aging populations will be one of these challenges, and one in which the needs and requirements between demographic cohorts will vary greatly. Although we need to create future smart age-friendly ecosystems to meet these needs, technology still does not feature in the WHO eight domains of an age-friendly city. This paper extends upon Marston and van Hoof's 'Smart Age-friendly Ecosystem' (SAfE) framework, and explores how digital technology, design hacking, and research approaches can be used to understand a smart age-friendly ecosystem in a post-pandemic society. By exploring a series of case studies and using real-life scenarios from the standpoint of COVID-19, we propose the 'Concept of Age-friendly Smart Ecologies (CASE)' framework. We provide an insight into a myriad of contemporary multi-disciplinary research, which are capable to initiate discussions and bring various actors together with a positive impact on future planning and development of age-friendly ecosystems. The strengths and limitations of this framework are outlined, with advantages evident in the opportunity for towns, regions/counties, provinces, and states to take an agile approach and work together in adopting and implement improvements for the greater benefits of residents and citizens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Ramsden Marston
- Health & Wellbeing Strategic Research Area, School of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, The Open University, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK7 6HH, UK
| | - Linda Shore
- Mi:Lab, Department of Design Innovation, Maynooth University, W23 F2H6 Co. Kildare, Ireland;
| | - P.J. White
- DesignCORE, Humanities, Institute of Technology Carlow, R93 V960 Carlow, Ireland;
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Sands LP. With Gratitude From the Inaugural Editor-in-Chief of Innovation in Aging. Innov Aging 2020; 4:igaa062. [PMID: 33381659 PMCID: PMC7754219 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igaa062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Rolandi E, Vaccaro R, Abbondanza S, Casanova G, Pettinato L, Colombo M, Guaita A. Loneliness and Social Engagement in Older Adults Based in Lombardy during the COVID-19 Lockdown: The Long-Term Effects of a Course on Social Networking Sites Use. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17217912. [PMID: 33126634 PMCID: PMC7662584 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17217912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Older adults are less familiar with communication technology, which became essential to maintain social contacts during the COVID-19 lockdown. The present study aimed at exploring how older adults, previously trained for Social Networking Sites (SNSs) use, experienced the lockdown period. In the first two weeks of May 2020, telephone surveys were conducted with individuals aged 81-85 years and resident in Abbiategrasso (Milan), who previously participated in a study aimed at evaluating the impact of SNSs use on loneliness in old age (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04242628). We collected information on SNSs use, self-perceived loneliness, and social engagement with family and friends. Interviewed participants were stratified as trained (N = 60) and untrained (N = 70) for SNSs use, based on their attendance to group courses held the previous year as part of the main experimental study. The groups were comparable for sociodemographics and clinical features. Participants trained for SNSs use reported significantly higher usage of SNSs and reduced feeling of being left out. Compared to pre-lockdown levels, individuals trained for SNSs use showed a lighter reduction in social contacts. These findings support the utility of training older adults for SNSs use in order to improve their social inclusion, even in extreme conditions of self-isolation and perceived vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Rolandi
- Golgi Cenci Foundation, Corso San Martino 10, 20081 Abbiategrasso, Italy; (E.R.); (R.V.); (S.A.); (L.P.); (M.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Roberta Vaccaro
- Golgi Cenci Foundation, Corso San Martino 10, 20081 Abbiategrasso, Italy; (E.R.); (R.V.); (S.A.); (L.P.); (M.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Simona Abbondanza
- Golgi Cenci Foundation, Corso San Martino 10, 20081 Abbiategrasso, Italy; (E.R.); (R.V.); (S.A.); (L.P.); (M.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Georgia Casanova
- IRCSS-INRCA National Institute of Health & Science on Ageing, Centre for Socio-Economic Research on Ageing, 60124 Ancona, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3470836007
| | - Laura Pettinato
- Golgi Cenci Foundation, Corso San Martino 10, 20081 Abbiategrasso, Italy; (E.R.); (R.V.); (S.A.); (L.P.); (M.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Mauro Colombo
- Golgi Cenci Foundation, Corso San Martino 10, 20081 Abbiategrasso, Italy; (E.R.); (R.V.); (S.A.); (L.P.); (M.C.); (A.G.)
| | - Antonio Guaita
- Golgi Cenci Foundation, Corso San Martino 10, 20081 Abbiategrasso, Italy; (E.R.); (R.V.); (S.A.); (L.P.); (M.C.); (A.G.)
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50
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Sands LP, Albert SM, Suitor JJ. Understanding and Addressing Older Adults' Needs During COVID-19. Innov Aging 2020; 4:igaa019. [PMID: 32613086 PMCID: PMC7313993 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igaa019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Laura P Sands
- Department of Human Development and Family Science and Center for Gerontology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg
| | - Steven M Albert
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - J Jill Suitor
- Department of Sociology and Center on Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
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