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Blumen HM, Jayakody O, Ayers E, Barzilai N, Habeck C, Milman S, Stern Y, Weiss EF, Verghese J. Cognitive reserve proxies are associated with age-related cognitive decline - Not age-related gait speed decline. Neurobiol Aging 2024; 141:46-54. [PMID: 38820770 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2024.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Cognition and gait share brain substrates in aging and dementia. Cognitive reserve (CR) allows individuals to cope with brain pathology and delay cognitive impairment and dementia. Yet, evidence for that CR is associated with age-related cognitive decline is mixed, and evidence for that CR is associated with age-related gait decline is limited. In 1,079 older (M Age = 75.4 years; 56.0% women) LonGenity study participants without dementia at baseline and up to 12 years of annual follow-up (M follow-up = 3.9 years, SD = 2.5 years), high CR inferred from cognitive (education years), physical (number of blocks walked per day; weekly physical activity days), and social (volunteering/working; living with someone) proxies were associated with slower rates of age-related decline in global cognition - not gait speed decline. Thus, cognitive, physical, and social CR proxies are associated with cognitive decline in older adults without dementia. The multifactorial etiology and earlier decline in gait than cognition may render it less modifiable by CR proxies later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena M Blumen
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
| | - Oshadi Jayakody
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Emmeline Ayers
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Nir Barzilai
- Department of Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | | | - Sofiya Milman
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Yaakov Stern
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Erica F Weiss
- Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Joe Verghese
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
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Doyle DM, Link BG. On social health: history, conceptualization, and population patterning. Health Psychol Rev 2024; 18:619-648. [PMID: 38349646 PMCID: PMC11332409 DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2024.2314506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
We propose a psychologically-informed concept of social health to join physical and mental components in a more comprehensive assessment of human health. Although there is an extensive literature on the importance of social relationships to health, a theoretical framework is needed to coalesce this work into a codified conceptualisation of social health, defined here as adequate quantity and quality of relationships in a particular context to meet an individual's need for meaningful human connection. Informing this novel conceptualisation, we outline eight key propositions to guide future research and theory on social health, including five propositions focused on the conceptualisation of social health and three focused on its population patterning. The former five propositions include that social health is an outcome in its own right, that health interventions can have divergent effects on social versus physical and mental aspects of health, that social health has independent effects on quality of life, that it is a dynamic and contextual construct, and that it is embedded and encoded in the human body (and mind). The utility of the social health concept is further revealed in its significance for understanding and addressing population health concerns, such as health inequalities experienced by marginalised groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Matthew Doyle
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VUmc, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bruce G. Link
- School of Public Policy and Department of Sociology, University of California, Riverside, CA, US
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Pawling R, McGlone F, Walker SC. High frequency heart rate variability is associated with sensitivity to affective touch. Physiol Behav 2024; 283:114600. [PMID: 38830446 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2024.114600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
C-tactile afferents (CTs) are a class of unmyelinated, mechanosensitive nerve fibre that respond optimally to skin temperature, slow moving touch typical of a caress. They are hypothesised to signal the rewarding value of affiliative tactile interactions. While CT firing frequency is positively correlated with subjective ratings of touch pleasantness, trait differences in sensitivity to the specific hedonic value of CT targeted touch have been reported. Inter-individual differences in vagally mediated, high frequency heart rate variability (HF-HRV) have been linked to variation in visual social cognition. Thus, the aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between resting state HF-HRV and sensitivity to socially relevant CT targeted touch. 58 healthy participants first had a 5-minute electrocardiogram. They then rated the pleasantness of 5 randomly presented velocities of robotically delivered touch. Three velocities fell within (1, 3, 10 cm/s) and two outside (0.3, 30 cm/s) the CT optimal range. Each velocity was delivered twice. On a group level, affective touch ratings were described by a negative quadratic function, with CT optimal velocities rated as more pleasant than slower and faster speeds. Simple regression analysis confirmed participants' HF-HRV was significantly predicted by the quadratic curve fit of their touch ratings, with higher HF-HRV associated with a better quadratic fit. These findings indicate that, in line with previous observations that higher HF-HRV is associated with enhanced sensitivity to visual social cues, trait differences in autonomic control could account for previously reported individual differences in CT sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Pawling
- Research Centre for Brain & Behaviour, School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Francis McGlone
- Research Centre for Brain & Behaviour, School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK; School of Science, Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Aalto University, Finland
| | - Susannah C Walker
- Research Centre for Brain & Behaviour, School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK.
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Wang JA, Wang HF, Cao B, Lei X, Long C. Cultural Dimensions Moderate the Association between Loneliness and Mental Health during Adolescence and Younger Adulthood: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Youth Adolesc 2024; 53:1774-1819. [PMID: 38662185 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-024-01977-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Cultural factors, such as country or continent, influence the relationship between loneliness and mental health. However, less is known about how cultural dimensions moderate this relationship during adolescence and younger adulthood, even if these dimensions manifest as country or continent differences. This study aims to examine the potential influence of Hofstede's cultural dimensions on this relationship using a three-level meta-analysis approach. A total of 292 studies with 291,946 participants aged 10 to 24 were included in this study. The results indicate that cultural dimensions, such as individualism vs. collectivism, indulgence vs. restraint, power distance, and long-term vs. short-term orientation, moderated the associations between loneliness and social anxiety, stress, Internet overuse, and negative affect. The association between loneliness and mental health was not moderated by cultural dimensions, such as masculinity and uncertainty avoidance. These findings suggest that culture's influence on the association between loneliness and mental health is based on a domain-specific mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Ai Wang
- School of Psychology and Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality of the Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Hai-Fan Wang
- School of Psychology and Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality of the Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Bing Cao
- School of Psychology and Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality of the Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Xu Lei
- School of Psychology and Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality of the Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Changquan Long
- School of Psychology and Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality of the Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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Bajo M, García-Jiménez GM, Stavraki M, Díaz D. Positive Mental Health of Frontline Healthcare Professionals during COVID-19 First Wave and Second Wave in Spain: The Protective Role of Social Recognition. Int J Behav Med 2024; 31:527-537. [PMID: 37316752 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-023-10190-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study of the COVID-19 disease consequences on healthcare professionals' mental health has drawn a great interest in psychology and other behavioral sciences. Previous studies mainly focused on professionals' health in terms of psychopathology, therefore, there is no research examining their positive mental health during both the first and the second wave. Also, there is no research studying healthcare professionals' social recognition during the pandemic and the influence of this variable on professionals' positive health. METHODS Following the WHO's recommendations, our objective was to measure pathology (i.e., anxiety and traumatic intensity), positive health (i.e., Hedonic, Psychological and Social Well-being) and social recognition in a sample of 200 healthcare professionals in the frontline care of Covid-19 patients. RESULTS In both waves, participants showed high levels of anxiety and traumatic intensity, although, as expected, in the second (vs. the first) wave psychopathological symptoms decreased. Concerning positive health indicators, in the second wave, health professionals showed more hedonic and psychological well-being than in the first one. However, in the second wave social well-being was lower than in the first wave, an expected though apparently paradoxical result, linked to the decrease in healthcare professionals' social recognition between the first and the second wave. In fact, bootstrapping procedures and Sobel Test confirm the mediating role of social recognition on the effect of Covid-19 wave on social well-being. CONCLUSIONS Public institutions, governments, and society in general, should recognize health professionals' work, given that social recognition is a fundamental protection factor for social well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Bajo
- Universidad de Castilla la Mancha, Ciudad Real Medical School, Department of Medical Psychology, Camino de Moledores S/N, 13071, Ciudad Real, Spain.
| | - Gemma María García-Jiménez
- Universidad de Castilla la Mancha, Ciudad Real Medical School, Department of Medical Psychology, Camino de Moledores S/N, 13071, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Maria Stavraki
- Universidad de Castilla la Mancha, Ciudad Real Medical School, Department of Medical Psychology, Camino de Moledores S/N, 13071, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Darío Díaz
- Universidad de Castilla la Mancha, Ciudad Real Medical School, Department of Medical Psychology, Camino de Moledores S/N, 13071, Ciudad Real, Spain
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Bowers JM, Huelsnitz CO, Dwyer LA, Gibson LP, Agurs-Collins T, Ferrer RA, Acevedo AM. Measuring Relationship Influences on Romantic Couples' Cancer-Related Behaviors During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Protocol for a Longitudinal Online Study of Dyads and Cancer Survivors. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e48516. [PMID: 39083795 PMCID: PMC11325112 DOI: 10.2196/48516] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has established the effects of romantic relationships on individuals' morbidity and mortality. However, the interplay between relationship functioning, affective processes, and health behaviors has been relatively understudied. During the COVID-19 pandemic, relational processes may influence novel health behaviors such as social distancing and masking. OBJECTIVE We describe the design, recruitment, and methods of the relationships, risk perceptions, and cancer-related behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic study. This study was developed to understand how relational and affective processes influence romantic partners' engagement in cancer prevention behaviors as well as health behaviors introduced or exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS The relationships, risk perceptions, and cancer-related behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic study used online survey methods to recruit and enroll 2 cohorts of individuals involved in cohabiting romantic relationships, including 1 cohort of dyads (n=223) and 1 cohort of cancer survivors (n=443). Survey assessments were completed over 2 time points that were 5.57 (SD 3.14) weeks apart on average. Health behaviors assessed included COVID-19 vaccination and social distancing, physical activity, diet, sleep, alcohol use, and smoking behavior. We also examined relationship factors, psychological distress, and household chaos. RESULTS Data collection occurred between October 2021 and August 2022. During that time, a total of 926 participants were enrolled, of which about two-thirds were from the United Kingdom (n=622, 67.8%) and one-third were from the United States (n=296, 32.2%); about two-thirds were married (n=608, 66.2%) and one-third were members of unmarried couples (n=294, 32%). In cohorts 1 and 2, the mean age was about 34 and 50, respectively. Out of 478 participants in cohort 1, 19 (4%) identified as Hispanic or Latino/a, 79 (17%) as non-Hispanic Asian, 40 (9%) as non-Hispanic Black or African American, and 306 (64%) as non-Hispanic White; 62 (13%) participants identified their sexual orientation as bisexual or pansexual, 359 (75.1%) as heterosexual or straight, and 53 (11%) as gay or lesbian. In cohort 2, out of 440 participants, 13 (3%) identified as Hispanic or Latino/a, 8 (2%) as non-Hispanic Asian, 5 (1%) as non-Hispanic Black or African American, and 398 (90.5%) as non-Hispanic White; 41 (9%) participants identified their sexual orientation as bisexual or pansexual, 384 (87.3%) as heterosexual or straight, and 13 (3%) as gay or lesbian. The overall enrollment rate for individuals was 66.14% and the overall completion rate was 80.08%. CONCLUSIONS We discuss best practices for collecting online survey data for studies examining relationships and health, challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic, recruitment of underrepresented populations, and enrollment of dyads. Recommendations include conducting pilot studies, allowing for extra time in the data collection timeline for marginalized or underserved populations, surplus screening to account for expected attrition within dyads, as well as planning dyad-specific data quality checks. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/48516.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Bowers
- Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Chloe O Huelsnitz
- Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Laura A Dwyer
- Cape Fox Facilities Services, Manassas, VA, United States
| | - Laurel P Gibson
- Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Tanya Agurs-Collins
- Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Rebecca A Ferrer
- Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Amanda M Acevedo
- Behavioral Research Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
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Lüscher J, Lüthi S. How is momentary well-being and stress associated in persons with spinal cord injury and their romantic partners? A study protocol for a dyadic everyday life study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e084395. [PMID: 39079930 PMCID: PMC11293392 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-084395] [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: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Very little is known about daily life dynamics and mutual influences that tie together well-being and psychobiological stress responses in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) and their romantic partners in particular. The role of social support and physical activity in the associations between emotional well-being and stress has not been investigated in the context of SCI yet and studies applying a dyadic approach, exploring the role of a romantic partner, are currently unavailable. The overall objective is thus to better understand the interplay between emotional well-being and the psychobiological stress marker cortisol, and to investigate the potentially moderating role of social support and physical activity in the well-being-stress association among persons with SCI and their romantic partners using a dyadic perspective. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The stRess and Health Among romantic couPles with Spinal cOrD injurY study, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (10001C_204739), aims to recruit N=150 community-dwelling persons with SCI and their romantic partners including three phases of data collection. The first phase includes a baseline questionnaire. The second phase, the time sampling phase, comprises an ecological momentary assessment design in the everyday life of couples where both partners provide concurrent salivary cortisol samples five times a day and complete assessments four times a day over seven consecutive days. Wrist-worn accelerometers record physical activity during this period. The third phase is an observational study in the laboratory, where a couples' discussion on the SCI management in their everyday life is recorded and coded to identify a couple-specific coping with SCI to enrich data. The dyadic data will be analysed using multilevel modelling, based on the actor-partner interdependence model framework. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study was approved by the ethics committee of Northwest and Central Switzerland (2022-01072) and findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janina Lüscher
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Nottwil, Switzerland
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Simone Lüthi
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Nottwil, Switzerland
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
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Gadbois EA, Brazier JF, Turner J, Hawes C, Florence LC, Belazis L. "It Made Me Feel Like a Person Again": Benefits of Meals on Wheels-Based Social Connection Programs. J Appl Gerontol 2024:7334648241257798. [PMID: 39023859 DOI: 10.1177/07334648241257798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Social isolation and loneliness are associated with negative health outcomes, and these outcomes are exacerbated among older adults who are homebound. To address this issue, Meals on Wheels programs increasingly provide social connection services to clients in addition to home-delivered meals. This descriptive qualitative study examines the impact of three types of social connection programs on the well-being of homebound older adult clients, as well as on the volunteers and staff members who deliver the programs. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews conducted with 117 clients, volunteers, and staff in six Meals on Wheels social connection programs across the United States indicated that program participation was associated with substantial benefits. Benefits included the development of supportive friendships, reduced feelings of loneliness, and an improved overall sense of well-being. Insights from this study may inform the development, expansion, and sustainability of social connection programs provided by community-based organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Gadbois
- Health Services, Policy, & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Joan F Brazier
- Health Services, Policy, & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Jeffrey Turner
- Health Services, Policy, & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Courtney Hawes
- Health Services, Policy, & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | | | - Laura Belazis
- Strategy & Impact, Meals on Wheels America, Arlington, VA, USA
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Muhammad T, Pai M, Maurya C, Srivastava S, Kumar M. Natural and human-made disaster and associated health outcomes among community-dwelling older adults in India: Findings from LASI, 2017-18. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0307371. [PMID: 39024275 PMCID: PMC11257249 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0307371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Droughts, flash floods, rail accidents, and riots are relatively regular occurrences for those living in many low- and middle-income countries like India. While such natural and human-made disasters put everyone in harm's way, their toll on specific segments of society-like older adults-is the heaviest. Therefore, in this study, we examine (1) the prevalence of natural and human-made disasters in India and (2) the association between natural and human-made disasters and several physical and mental health outcomes among older Indians. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing data come from the 2017-18 wave 1 of the nationally representative Longitudinal Ageing Study in India, comprising a sample of 29,333 older adults (14,120 males and 15,213 females) aged 60 years and above. Multivariate random intercept multilevel logistic regression analysis is used to examine the association between natural and human-made disasters and poor self-rated health, difficulty in activities of daily living, difficulty in instrumental activities of daily living, communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, depressive symptoms, and psychiatric disorder. RESULTS Overall, 3.58% of older adults reported that they have encountered any type of natural or human-made disaster in the past five years. Compared to those who did not experience any (natural or human-made) disaster, older adults who experienced any disaster had a higher prevalence of poor self-rated health (33.4% vs 23.31%), difficulty in activities of daily living (33.94% vs 23.00%), difficulty in instrumental activities of daily living (60.09% vs 47.70%), communicable diseases (49.57% vs 25.86%), depressive symptoms (17.30% vs 8.06%) and psychiatric disorders (3.42% vs 2.78%). After adjusting for the selected variables and the contextual effect, the odds of poor self-rated health (1.64 [1.40, 1.92]), difficulty in activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living (1.89 [1.61, 2.21] and 1.63 [1.40, 1.89]), communicable and non-communicable diseases (2.12 [1.83, 2.46] and 1.38 [1.20, 1.60]), depressive symptoms and psychiatric disorder (1.67 [1.55, 2.05] and 1.52 [1.33, 2.18]) were significantly higher among older adults who experienced a natural or human-made disaster than their counterparts without such an experience. CONCLUSIONS Relative to their non-exposed counterparts, older Indians who survived natural or human-made disasters endured an inflated risk of poor self-rated health, functional difficulties, communicable and non-communicable diseases, depressive symptoms, and psychiatric disorders. As such, post-disaster efforts should be grounded in policies and programs that address disaster-related trauma and diseases and improve the functional, physical, and psychological facets of health among older disaster survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- T. Muhammad
- Center for Healthy Aging, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Manacy Pai
- Department of Sociology and Criminology, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Chanda Maurya
- Department of Survey Research and Data Analytics, International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, India
| | - Shobhit Srivastava
- Department of Survey Research and Data Analytics, International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- Department of Survey Research and Data Analytics, International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, India
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Floyd K, Hesse C, Ray CD, Mikkelson AC. Interpersonal Loneliness Predicts the Frequency and Intensity of Nightmares: An Examination of Theoretic Mechanisms. THE JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2024:1-21. [PMID: 39013019 DOI: 10.1080/00223980.2024.2378418] [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: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The evolutionary theory of loneliness (ETL) argues that human belongingness is essential to survival and failing to meet belongingness needs constitutes a threat to viability. In two separate studies (total N = 1,609), links between loneliness and nightmares were examined as a test of ETL postulates. As hypothesized, loneliness predicted nightmare frequency (both studies) and nightmare intensity (Study Two only). Although stress mediated the relationship between loneliness and nightmare frequency in Study One, stress was not a significant mediator of this relationship in Study Two. As predicted, in Study Two both hyperarousal and rumination mediated the relationships between loneliness and nightmare frequency and between loneliness and nightmare intensity. Theoretical implications include support for both the aversive signaling and implicit vigilance postulates of ETL.
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Deslauriers V, Bignami S, Sandberg J. A typology of social network interactions in sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence from a rural population in Senegal. POPULATION STUDIES 2024; 78:251-268. [PMID: 38804961 PMCID: PMC11309897 DOI: 10.1080/00324728.2024.2345070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Social isolation/marginalization in sub-Saharan Africa is under-researched, despite increasing evidence of weakening traditional community-based social support. This paper aims to develop a typology of social networks capable of accounting for social marginalization in a rural community in Western Senegal and to describe the socio-demographic characteristics of network profiles. Building on prior qualitative work, we carry out a latent profile analysis using a unique and extensive social network data set, identifying four different network profiles: Locally integrated, Constrained relationships, Locally marginalized, and Local elites. This paper provides the first empirically supported classification of social integration and marginalization in social networks in rural sub-Saharan Africa. In doing so, it can serve as a reference for future research seeking to understand both the broader scope of social integration and marginalization and the consequences of differential access to social capital through social networks on access to health resources and well-being.
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Htun HL, Teshale AB, Ryan J, Owen AJ, Woods RL, Chong TT, Murray AM, Shah RC, Orchard SG, Freak‐Poli R. Gender-specific analysis of social connection patterns and risk of dementia in community-dwelling older people. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:4879-4890. [PMID: 38874322 PMCID: PMC11247681 DOI: 10.1002/alz.14055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Poor social connection is considered a risk factor for dementia. Since socializing behaviors may cluster together or act compensatorily, we aimed to investigate social connection patterns and their association with dementia, for men and women separately. METHODS A total of 12,896 community-dwelling older adults (mean ± SD age: 75.2 ± 4.3 years, 54% women) without major cognitive impairment were included. Latent class analysis was conducted using 24 baseline social connection indicators. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the association between latent classes and incident dementia over 12 (median: 8.4) years follow-up. RESULTS Three distinct classes were identified in both genders: strong social connections with an intermediate friend-relative network (Class 1: men, 43.8%; women, 37.9%), weak social connections (Class 2: men, 29.6%; women, 27.4%), and strong social connections with a larger friend-relative network (Class 3: men, 26.6%; women, 34.7%). Compared to Class 1, men in Class 2 (HR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.08-1.77) and women in Class 3 (HR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.01-1.60) had an increased risk of dementia. DISCUSSION Dementia risk varies with different social connection patterns among older men and women. HIGHLIGHTS Three distinct social connection patterns were identified based on 24 indicators. These patterns were related to dementia risk differently in men and women. In men, a weak social connection pattern was associated with a higher dementia risk. In women, a strong social connection with a relatively larger friend-relative network was associated with a greater dementia risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Htet Lin Htun
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | | | - Joanne Ryan
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Alice J. Owen
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Robyn L. Woods
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Trevor T.‐J. Chong
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental HealthSchool of Psychological SciencesMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of NeurologyAlfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesSt Vincent's HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Anne M. Murray
- Berman Center for Outcomes and Clinical ResearchHennepin Healthcare Research InstituteMinneapolisMinnesotaUSA
- Division of GeriatricsDepartment of MedicineHennepin HealthcareMinneapolisMinnesotaUSA
| | - Raj C. Shah
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine and the Rush Alzheimer's Disease CenterRush University Medical CenterChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Suzanne G. Orchard
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Rosanne Freak‐Poli
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Stroke and Ageing ResearchDepartment of MedicineSchool of Clinical Sciences at Monash HealthMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
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Frangieh J, Hughes V, Edwards-Capello A, Humphrey KG, Lammey C, Lucas L. Fostering belonging and social connectedness in nursing: Evidence-based strategies: A discussion paper for nurse students, faculty, leaders, and clinical nurses. Nurs Outlook 2024; 72:102174. [PMID: 38761699 DOI: 10.1016/j.outlook.2024.102174] [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: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The phenomenon of loneliness among healthcare providers, particularly nurses, has garnered increasing attention due to its detrimental effects on individual well-being and professional retention. The isolation experienced by nurses has been linked to heightened turnover rates and intentions to leave the profession, posing significant challenges to healthcare systems globally. Recognizing loneliness as an epidemic in 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General highlighted the urgency of addressing this issue within the healthcare workforce. PURPOSE This paper explores evidence-based strategies to mitigate loneliness and promote social connectedness among nurses, drawing insights from various stakeholders. It aims to offer actionable recommendations to enhance the nursing experience and retain professionals in the field. DISCUSSION Strategies include peer support programs, mentorship initiatives, wellness activities, and fostering open communication. Leveraging technology for virtual connections is also highlighted, especially in remote work scenarios. CONCLUSION A holistic approach is vital, combining individual, interpersonal, and systemic interventions to combat nurse loneliness. Prioritizing social connectedness fosters a supportive work environment, benefiting both nurses and patient care quality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Laura Lucas
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD
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14
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Bartolomucci A, Tung J, Harris KM. The fortunes and misfortunes of social life across the life course: A new era of research from field, laboratory and comparative studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 162:105655. [PMID: 38583652 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105655] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Social gradients in health and aging have been reported in studies across many human populations, and - as the papers included in this special collection highlight - also occur across species. This paper serves as a general introduction to the special collection of Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews entitled "Social dimensions of health and aging: population studies, preclinical research, and comparative research using animal models". Authors of the fourteen reviews are primarily members of a National Institute of Aging-supported High Priority Research Network on "Animal Models for the Social Dimensions of Health and Aging". The collection is introduced by a foreword, commentaries, and opinion pieces by leading experts in related fields. The fourteen reviews are divided into four sections: Section 1: Biodemography and life course studies; Section 2: Social behavior and healthy aging in nonhuman primates; Section 3: Social factors, stress, and hallmarks of aging; Section 4: Neuroscience and social behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Bartolomucci
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA; Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Jenny Tung
- Department of Primate Behavior and Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany; Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, Toronto, Canada; Duke Population Research Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Kathleen Mullan Harris
- Department of Sociology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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Liang YY, He Y, Wang J, Liu Y, Ai S, Feng H, Zhu C, Li H, Zhou Y, Zhang J, Zhang J, Qi L. Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Risk of Microvascular Complications Among Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Am J Kidney Dis 2024:S0272-6386(24)00839-4. [PMID: 38925507 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2024.05.004] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE Social disconnection has been associated with poor cardiometabolic health. This study sought to investigate the associations of social isolation and loneliness with diabetic microvascular complications (DMCs) among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and compare these associations versus those related to traditional risk factors. STUDY DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS A total of 24,297 UK Biobank participants with T2DM and no DMCs at baseline. EXPOSURE Social isolation and loneliness were measured using self-reported questionnaires. OUTCOME The incidence of DMCs defined as a composite of diabetic kidney disease, diabetic retinopathy, or diabetic neuropathy. ANALYTICAL APPROACH Multivariable cause-specific hazards regression. To compare the relative importance of social disconnection with other established factors, the R2 values of the Cox models were calculated. RESULTS During a median follow-up of 12.6 years, 5,530 patients were documented to experience DMCs (3,458 with diabetic kidney disease, 2,255 with diabetic retinopathy, and 1,146 with diabetic neuropathy). The highest level of social isolation was associated with an increased risk of any DMC component (most vs least: HR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.05-1.22), especially diabetic kidney disease (HR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.04-1.25) and neuropathy (HR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.11-1.53). Any level of loneliness was associated with an increased risk of any DMC component (HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.02-1.23) and diabetic kidney disease (HR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.03-1.30). Social isolation and loneliness exhibited associations with DMCs comparable to those of other conventional risk factors, including smoking, blood pressure, and physical activity. LIMITATIONS Limited generalizability related to the composition of participants in the UK Biobank Study. CONCLUSIONS Social isolation and loneliness were independently associated with a higher risk of incident DMCs among individuals with T2DM, with comparable importance to other traditional risk factors. These findings underscore social isolation and loneliness as novel and potentially modifiable risk factors for DMCs. PLAIN-LANGUAGE SUMMARY Social isolation and loneliness are important social determinants that are associated with adverse cardiometabolic health. Individuals with diabetes are particularly vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness. However, the relationship of social isolation or loneliness with diabetic microvascular complications (DMCs) remains unclear. Our study used the UK Biobank study data to investigate the associations of social isolation and loneliness with the development of DMCs. We found that social isolation and loneliness were independently associated with a higher risk of incident DMCs. Remarkably, their association with DMCs was comparable to those of other lifestyle factors such as smoking, blood pressure, and physical activity. These findings collectively imply that social isolation and loneliness are 2 important potentially modifiable risk factors for DMCs among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannis Yan Liang
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Institute of Psycho-neuroscience, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu He
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jinyu Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yaping Liu
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Sizhi Ai
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Department of Cardiology, Heart Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Weihui, Henan, China
| | - Hongliang Feng
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Changguo Zhu
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haiteng Li
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yujing Zhou
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jihui Zhang
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Lu Qi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana; Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Yu L, Li LMW, Tong X. Understanding the link between theory of mind and loneliness among primary school students: A cross-lagged panel model analysis. J Exp Child Psychol 2024; 242:105891. [PMID: 38442684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jecp.2024.105891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the longitudinal association between theory of mind (ToM) and loneliness as well as the potential moderating effects of parenting style on this association. A total of 689 Chinese third-grade students (341 girls and 348 boys; Mage = 9.23 years, SD = 0.66) were recruited from eight primary schools and were followed from Grade 3 to Grade 5. These students reported their primary caregivers' parenting style in third grade and completed the same ToM task and loneliness questionnaire at each time point from Grade 3 to Grade 5. The study's results indicated a bidirectional relationship between ToM and loneliness, implying that children with less developed ToM abilities tend to feel lonelier and, conversely, that higher levels of loneliness are associated with lower ToM skills. Moreover, the study demonstrated that parenting style influenced the association between ToM and loneliness. Specifically, the impact of ToM at Grade 3 on reducing loneliness at Grade 4 was greater among children who experienced high levels of rejection from their caregivers compared with those with low levels of rejection. In addition, this study found that loneliness at Grade 3 had a greater influence on ToM at Grade 5 for children experiencing low levels of emotional warmth from their caregivers than for those who experienced high levels of emotional warmth. These findings highlight the significance of ToM as both a precursor and consequence of children's loneliness and emphasize the variation in these longitudinal relationships based on the parenting styles of primary caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyan Yu
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32304, USA
| | - Liman Man Wai Li
- Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Xiuhong Tong
- Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong.
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17
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Magid K, Sagui-Henson SJ, Sweet CC, Smith BJ, Chamberlain CEW, Levens SM. The Impact of Digital Mental Health Services on Loneliness and Mental Health: Results from a Prospective, Observational Study. Int J Behav Med 2024; 31:468-478. [PMID: 37488324 PMCID: PMC11106110 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-023-10204-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic and negatively impacts mental health. This study examined relationships between loneliness and mental health among adults using a digital mental health platform. METHODS A purposive sample of 919 participants (97% response rate) who were newly enrolled in the platform completed a survey on loneliness, depression, anxiety, well-being, stress, social support, and comorbidities at baseline and 3 months. Platform engagement was tracked during this period. We examined baseline differences between lonely and non-lonely participants; associations between loneliness, mental health symptoms, and comorbidities; and changes in loneliness and mental health through engagement in any form of care. RESULTS At baseline, 57.8% of the sample were categorized as lonely. Loneliness was associated with younger age, fewer years of education, and the presence of a comorbidity (p values < .05). Baseline loneliness was associated with greater depression, anxiety, and stress and lower well-being and social support (ps < .001). The percentage of lonely participants decreased at follow-up (57.6% to 52.9%, p = .03). Those who improved in loneliness improved in mental health symptoms, well-being, and social support (ps < .001). Lonely participants who engaged in any form of care reported a greater reduction in loneliness than those who did not engage (p = .04). CONCLUSIONS This study confirms previous findings of the high prevalence of loneliness among adults and risk factors for increased loneliness. Findings highlight the potential of digital platforms to reach lonely individuals and alleviate loneliness through remote mental health support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirby Magid
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte, NC, Charlotte, USA
- Modern Health, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Sara M Levens
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte, NC, Charlotte, USA
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18
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Lee RT, Surenkok G, Zayas V. Mitigating the affective and cognitive consequences of social exclusion: an integrative data analysis of seven social disconnection interventions. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1250. [PMID: 38714949 PMCID: PMC11075311 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18365-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Being socially excluded has detrimental effects, with prolonged exclusion linked to loneliness and social isolation. Social disconnection interventions that do not require direct support actions (e.g., "how can I help?") offer promise in mitigating the affective and cognitive consequences of social exclusion. We examine how various social disconnection interventions involving friends and unknown peers might mitigate social exclusion by buffering (intervening before) and by promoting recovery (intervening after). METHODS We present an integrative data analysis (IDA) of five studies (N = 664) that systematically exposed participants to exclusion (vs. inclusion) social dynamics. Using a well-validated paradigm, participants had a virtual interaction with two other people. Unbeknownst to participants, the other people's behavior was programmed to either behave inclusively toward the participant or for one to behave exclusively. Critically, our social disconnection interventions experimentally manipulated whether a friend was present (vs. an unknown peer vs. being alone), the nature of interpersonal engagement (having a face-to-face conversation vs. a reminder of an upcoming interaction vs. mere presence), and the timing of the intervention in relation to the social dynamic (before vs. during vs. after). We then assessed participants' in-the-moment affective and cognitive responses, which included mood, feelings of belonging, sense of control, and social comfort. RESULTS Experiencing exclusion (vs. inclusion) led to negative affective and cognitive consequences. However, engaging in a face-to-face conversation with a friend before the exclusion lessened its impact (p < .001). Moreover, a face-to-face conversation with a friend after exclusion, and even a reminder of an upcoming interaction with a friend, sped-up recovery (ps < .001). There was less conclusive evidence that a face-to-face conversation with an unknown peer, or that the mere presence of a friend or unknown peer, conferred protective benefits. CONCLUSIONS The findings provide support for the effectiveness of social disconnection interventions that involve actual (i.e., face-to-face) or symbolic (i.e., reminders) interactions with friends. These interventions target momentary vulnerabilities that arise from social exclusion by addressing negative affect and cognitions before or after they emerge. As such, they offer a promising approach to primary prevention prior to the onset of loneliness and social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randy T Lee
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.
| | - Gizem Surenkok
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Vivian Zayas
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Lee H, Yong SY, Choi H, Yoon GY, Koh S. Association between loneliness and cognitive function, and brain volume in community-dwelling elderly. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1389476. [PMID: 38741916 PMCID: PMC11089178 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1389476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction We investigated the relationship between loneliness, cognitive impairment, and regional brain volume among elderly individuals residing in the Korean community. Methods Data from the ARIRANG aging-cognition sub-cohort, collected between 2020 and 2022, were utilized for the present study. Loneliness was assessed using the UCLA-Loneliness Scale (UCLA-LS) questionnaire and the relevant item from Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale Korean version (CES-D-K). Cognitive impairment was measured through Mini-Mental State Examination (K-MMSE-2) and Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery (SNSB-C), with five sub-categories: attention, memory, visuospatial function, language, and executive function. Logistic regression was employed for prevalence ratios related to cognitive impairment, while linear regression was used for regional brain volume including white matter hyperintensity (WMH) and cortical thickness. Results Our analysis involved 785 participants (292 men and 493 women). We observed increased cognitive impairment assessed by K-MMSE-2 [UCLA-LS: odds ratio (OR) 3.133, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.536-6.393; loneliness from CES-D: OR 2.823, 95% CI 1.426-5.590] and SNSB-C total score (UCLA-LS: OR 2.145, 95% CI 1.304-3.529) in the lonely group compared to the non-lonely group. Specifically, the lonely group identified by UCLA-LS showed an association with declined visuospatial (OR 1.591, 95% CI 1.029-2.460) and executive function (OR 1.971, 95% CI 1.036-3.750). The lonely group identified by CES-D-K was associated with impaired memory (OR 1.577, 95% CI 1.009-2.466) and executive function (OR 1.863, 95% CI 1.036-3.350). In the regional brain volume analysis, loneliness was linked to reduced brain volume in frontal white matter (left: -1.24, 95% CI -2.37 ∼-0.12; right: -1.16, 95% CI -2.31 ∼ -0.00), putamen (left: -0.07, 95% CI -0.12 ∼-0.02; right: -0.06, 95% CI -0.11 ∼-0.01), and globus pallidus (-15.53, 95% CI -30.13 ∼-0.93). There was no observed association in WMH and cortical thickness. Conclusion Loneliness is associated with cognitive decline and volumetric reduction in the frontal white matter, putamen, and globus pallidus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hunju Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Genomic Cohort, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Yeol Yong
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- International Olympic Committee Research Centre Korea, Yonsei Institute of Sports Science and Exercise Medicine, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyowon Choi
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Ga Young Yoon
- Department of Radiology, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangbaek Koh
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Genomic Cohort, Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
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Misiak MM, Bethell J, Chapman H, Sommerlad A. How can care home activities facilitate social connection in residents? A qualitative study. Aging Ment Health 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38669150 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2024.2345130] [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: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Good social connection is associated with better physical and mental health but care home residents experience barriers to social connection. Activities present a potential avenue for improving social connection in care homes but residents often experience loneliness despite access to activity programmes. We therefore aimed to identify what aspects of activities facilitate social connection in care home residents. METHOD Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews that were analysed using Thematic Analysis. A purposive sample of 35 participants, including 12 residents, 10 family caregivers, nine care home staff and four clinicians, recruited from UK care homes. RESULTS We found four main themes describing features of activities important for facilitating social connection: (1) personalisation with respect to residents' interests, social preferences, and cognitive ability; (2) activities which foster a sense of community; (3) finding and emphasising things in common that residents share; and (4) facilitating a sense of involvement with others. CONCLUSION We identified the key aspects of activities which facilitate social connection in care homes. These findings can be applied to a range of existing and newly designed activities in care homes and inform the development and testing of psychosocial interventions aiming to improve social connection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Bethell
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute,University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Andrew Sommerlad
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, UK
- Division of Psychiatry, Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Cavallari JM, Trudel SM, Miskovsky MN, Laguerre RA, Dugan AG. Life satisfaction and job and personal resources among public workers with non-standard work schedules. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1133. [PMID: 38654243 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18575-x] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the link between non-standard work schedules and poor health outcomes is established, few studies have examined how resources both in and outside of work can support the well-being of workers with non-standard work schedules. METHODS Using a cross-sectional survey, we assessed the association between one facet of well-being, life satisfaction, and job and personal resources. In 2019, an electronic survey was administered to two unionized, public service populations who work non-standard work schedules: transportation maintainers and correctional supervisors. We assessed life satisfaction with a 10-item scale; a broad set of job resources (reward satisfaction, supervisor support, co-worker support, schedule satisfaction, and working hours fit); and a broad set of personal resources (health status, sleep, physical activity, and finances). We used log-binomial regression models to estimate prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals among statistically significant univariate predictors. RESULTS Of the 316 workers surveyed, the majority were male (86%), White (68%), and reported positive life satisfaction (56%). In multivariate models, the prevalence of positive life satisfaction was higher in workers reporting reward satisfaction (PR:1.35, 95% CI: 1.11, 1.65; p = 0.003), good work schedule fit (PR:1.43, 95% CI: 1.12, 1.83; p = 0.004), good health (PR:2.92, 95% CI: 1.70, 4.99; p < 0.0001), and good finances (PR:1.32, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.72; p = 0.04). CONCLUSION Employers should consider increasing work recognition, as well as improving schedule fit, financial well-being, and overall good health in support of worker life satisfaction and ultimately well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Cavallari
- UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UConn School of Medicine, 263 Farmington Avenue, MC 6325, 06030-6325, Farmington, CT, USA.
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Pereira H, Silva P, Torre RD, dos Santos MR, Moutinho A, Solinho S, Proença C, Cabral J, Santos AJ. Men's Social Connectedness in Later Life: A Qualitative Study with Older Men. Geriatrics (Basel) 2024; 9:53. [PMID: 38667520 PMCID: PMC11050630 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics9020053] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to understand men's social connectedness in later life in Portugal focusing on their perceptions, obstacles, strategies, and impact on well-being. The sample included 104 older Portuguese men over 65 years of age (Mage = 70.76 years). The qualitative data were the direct transcriptions of the answers given by participants to the electronic interview using thematic analysis. Findings revealed six overarching themes encompassing 18 subcategories: definitions of social connectedness (social support, community identity, mental health promotion, use of community structures), difficulties/obstacles in maintaining social connectedness (ageism, lack of initiative, physical limitations, psychological traits, resources), strategies/actions or resources to establish social connections (use of technology, use of community groups, leisure and sport activities, church/religion), negative impact of difficulties in establishing relevant social connections (mental health, physical health, relationships), positive actions from being socially connected (positive prescriptions to promote social connectedness), and concerns from being socially disconnected (health risks). These findings indicate that the lack of social connectedness creates social vulnerability in later life, and social support is needed to ensure safer aging among older men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrique Pereira
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Patricia Silva
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
- Research Centre in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Renata Della Torre
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Marta Rosário dos Santos
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Adriana Moutinho
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Sofia Solinho
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Constança Proença
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
| | | | - Ana Jorge Santos
- Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal; (P.S.); (R.D.T.); (M.R.d.S.); (A.M.); (S.S.); (C.P.); (A.J.S.)
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Huang Y, Fleury J. Socially-supported sleep in older adults aged 50 and older: a concept analysis. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1364639. [PMID: 38645458 PMCID: PMC11027164 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1364639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The population of older adults is growing disproportionately, constituting 13% of the global population in 2022, and is expected to double by 2050. One of public health's priorities is healthy aging, the maintenance of functional ability aligned with well-being. As many as 50% of older adults report poor sleep quality, leading to an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. The quality and quantity of social relationships may broadly benefit sleep in older adults. However, the concept of socially-supported sleep is underdeveloped as a basis for intervention. Methods Existing literature was searched without time restriction in PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Scopus ending in August 2022. Thematic analysis was used to determine the defining attributes, antecedents, and consequences of socially-supported sleep guided by Rodgers' evolutionary concept analysis. Results Twenty-nine articles written in English, peer-reviewed, and examined social support and sleep in participants aged ≥50 were included. The defining attributes reflect dimensions of sleep quality. The antecedents are safe and secure, belonging and connection, and warmth and comfort. The consequences of socially-supported sleep include improved regulatory capabilities, physical and emotional well-being, and quality of life. Conclusion Socially-supported sleep has the potential to inform interventions that promote sleep in older adults. Ongoing research is needed to address the antecedents and mechanisms through which socially-supported sleep may promote sleep quality for healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingyan Huang
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
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Groechel RC, Liu AC, Liu C, Knopman DS, Koton S, Kucharska‐Newton AM, Lutsey PL, Mosley TH, Palta P, Sharrett AR, Walker KA, Wong DF, Gottesman RF. Social relationships, amyloid burden, and dementia: The ARIC-PET study. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2024; 16:e12560. [PMID: 38571965 PMCID: PMC10988116 DOI: 10.1002/dad2.12560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study aimed to assess whether social relationships in mid-life reduce the risk of dementia related to amyloid burden. METHODS Participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study were assessed for social support and isolation (visit 2; 1990-1992). A composite measure, "social relationships," was generated. Brain amyloid was evaluated with florbetapir positron emission tomography (PET); (visit 5; 2012-2014). Incident dementia cases were identified following visit 5 through 2019 using ongoing surveillance. Relative contributions of mid-life social relationships and elevated brain amyloid to incident dementia were evaluated with Cox regression models. RESULTS Among 310 participants without dementia, strong mid-life social relationships were associated independently with lower dementia risk. Elevated late-life brain amyloid was associated with greater dementia risk. DISCUSSION Although mid-life social relationships did not moderate the relationship between amyloid burden and dementia, these findings affirm the importance of strong social relationships as a potentially protective factor against dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renée C. Groechel
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders & Stroke Intramural Research ProgramNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Albert C. Liu
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public HealthChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Chelsea Liu
- Department of EpidemiologyGeorge Washington University‐Milken Institute School of Public HealthWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | | | - Silvia Koton
- Department of NursingThe Stanley Steyer School of Health ProfessionsTel Aviv UniversityTel AvivIsrael
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Anna M. Kucharska‐Newton
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public HealthChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Pamela L. Lutsey
- Division of Epidemiology and Community HealthUniversity of Minnesota School of Public HealthMinneapolisMinnesotaUSA
| | - Thomas H. Mosley
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMississippiUSA
| | - Priya Palta
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - A. Richey Sharrett
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Keenan A. Walker
- National Institute on Aging Intramural Research ProgramNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Dean F. Wong
- Mallinckrodt Institute of RadiologyWashington UniversitySt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Rebecca F. Gottesman
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders & Stroke Intramural Research ProgramNational Institutes of HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
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25
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O'Rourke HM. The global crisis of loneliness: a call for contextualised, mechanistic research. THE LANCET. HEALTHY LONGEVITY 2024; 5:e241-e242. [PMID: 38490236 DOI: 10.1016/s2666-7568(24)00030-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M O'Rourke
- College of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1C9, Canada.
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26
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Pivodic L, Van den Block L, Pivodic F. Social connection and end-of-life outcomes among older people in 19 countries: a population-based longitudinal study. THE LANCET. HEALTHY LONGEVITY 2024; 5:e264-e275. [PMID: 38490235 PMCID: PMC10978496 DOI: 10.1016/s2666-7568(24)00011-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social connection is a key determinant of health, but its role in shaping end-of-life outcomes is poorly understood. We examined changes in structure, function, and quality components of social connection in older people's last years of life, and the extent to which social connection predicts end-of-life outcomes (ie, symptoms, health-care utilisation, and place of death). METHODS This study used longitudinal data of representative samples from across 18 European countries and Israel in the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), the largest European cohort study of people aged 50 years or older. We included deceased participants of waves 4 and 6 (which contained social network modules) for whom a proxy provided an end-of-life interview. We did paired sample t-tests (for continuous variables), Wilcoxon signed-rank tests (for ordinal variables), and McNemar's tests (for non-ordinal categorical variables) to assess changes in structure, function, and quality components of social connection between waves 4 and 6. To examine social connection as a predictor of end-of-life outcomes, we used social connection data from wave 6 core interviews and end-of-life interviews from wave 7, conducted with a proxy respondent covering the deceased participant's last year of life. End-of-life outcomes included symptoms (pain, breathlessness, and anxiety or sadness) in the last month of life, health-care utilisation in the last year of life, and place of death. We conducted a mixed-effects logistic regression analysis per social connection measure, for each end-of-life outcome. FINDINGS Data were collected in 2011-12 for wave 4, 2015-16 for wave 6, and 2017-18 for wave 7. We studied 3356 individuals (mean age at death was 79·7 years [SD 10·2]), with interviews conducted, on average, 4·6 (1·2) years (wave 4) and 1·1 (0·7) years (wave 6) before death. From wave 4 to wave 6, the following changes in social connection were observed: proportion of married or partnered participants (from 1406 [60·9%] of 2310 to 1438 [57·1%] of 2518; p<0·0001), receiving personal care or practical help (from 781 [37·2%] of 2099 to 1334 [53·1%] of 2512; p<0·0001), loneliness (from mean 1·4 [SD 0·5] to 1·5 [0·6]; p<0·0001; scale 1-3), satisfaction with social network (from 8·8 [1·67] to 8·7 [1·7]; p=0·037; scale 0-10), and emotional closeness to social network (eg, from 1883 [88·8%] of 2121 to 1710 [91·3%] of 1872 participants who indicated being either very close or extremely close to social network members; p<0·0001). Higher levels of loneliness at wave 6 predicted a greater likelihood of experiencing symptoms in the last month of life (odds ratio range across symptoms: 1·29 [95% CI 1·08-1·55] to 1·58 [1·32-1·89]). Being married (1·32 [1·03-1·68]) or receiving personal care or practical help (1·25 [1·04-1·49]) predicted death in hospital. INTERPRETATION Social connection undergoes multifaceted changes towards older people's end of life, countering prevalent ideas of generally declining social trajectories. Loneliness in the final months of life might be a risk factor for end-of-life symptoms. Further research is needed to substantiate a causal relationship and to identify underpinning mechanisms, which could inform screening and prevention measures. FUNDING Research Foundation-Flanders and European Union.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Pivodic
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, End-of-Life Care Research Group, Brussels, Belgium; Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Family Medicine & Chronic Care, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Lieve Van den Block
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, End-of-Life Care Research Group, Brussels, Belgium; Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Family Medicine & Chronic Care, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fedja Pivodic
- World Bank, Health, Nutrition and Population Division; Washington DC, USA
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Kikuchi M, Ikeda A, Hirano M. Development of Older Adults' Perceptions on Community-based Connectedness with People Scale: Reliability and validity evaluation. Jpn J Nurs Sci 2024; 21:e12583. [PMID: 38216981 DOI: 10.1111/jjns.12583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
AIM We developed a self-assessment scale-Older Adults' Perceptions of Community-based Connectedness with People-to assess older adults' comprehensive perceptions of their connectedness with others in the community. A specific aim of this study is to evaluate the reliability and validity of this scale. METHODS Participants consisted of 1000 men and women aged 65 years or older, living in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. Factorial validity was assessed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, while concurrent validity was assessed using correlation analysis. Reliability was confirmed by Cronbach's α coefficient using the internal consistency method, and the stability coefficient was confirmed using the test-retest method. RESULTS Responses were received from 380 participants, and 358 participants who responded to all items were included in the analysis. The developed scale comprised 22 items with three factors: "Perception of Inclusion" (α = .947), "Perception of Reciprocity through Reception" (α = .937), and "Perception of Reciprocity through Provision" (α = .910). Correlation analyses indicated that concurrent scales were positively correlated with Ikigai and negatively correlated with loneliness on the total scale. The model fit was comparative fit index = 0.933, goodness-of-fit index = 0.854, adjusted goodness-of-fit index = 0.818, and root mean square of approximation = 0.081. The stability coefficient of the total scale scores was 0.875 (95% CI: [0.830, 0.908]). CONCLUSIONS The developed scale had adequate reliability and validity. The perceptions of connectedness measured using this scale can be used by public health and nursing care professionals to prevent loneliness and isolation among older adults living in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mami Kikuchi
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Atsuko Ikeda
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Michiyo Hirano
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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Sippel LM, Liebman RE, Schäfer SK, Ennis N, Mattern AC, Rozek DC, Monson CM. Sources of Social Support and Trauma Recovery: Evidence for Bidirectional Associations from a Recently Trauma-Exposed Community Sample. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:284. [PMID: 38667080 PMCID: PMC11047467 DOI: 10.3390/bs14040284] [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] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Although the association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and social support is well documented, few studies have tested the causal pathways explaining this association at several points in the acute post-trauma recovery period or examined whether the association varies for different sources of social support. To address these gaps, 151 community individuals (mean age = 37.20 years, 69.5% women) exposed to trauma within the previous 6 months were recruited to complete measures of PTSD and social support from intimate partners, friends, and relatives four times in 1 year. In line with recent recommendations for research on social support and PTSD symptoms, random intercept cross-lagged panel modeling (RI-CLPM) was used to examine dynamic changes between PTSD severity and social support over time. The pattern of RI-CLPM cross-lagged coefficients indicated that positive deviations from one's expected stable level of total social support (across all sources) sped up the recovery of PTSD symptoms at the end of the post-trauma year, and more severe PTSD symptoms than expected based on one's expected stable level of PTSD started eroding social support midway through the assessment year. When specific sources of social support were analyzed separately, the association between within-person increases in social support from friends at any given time point accelerated the recovery from PTSD across the entire year. Among participants with intimate partners (n = 53), intimate partner support did not predict PTSD symptoms, but more severe PTSD symptoms at any given time point predicted less support at the following time point. Results from this longitudinal study provide additional support for the bidirectional relationship between PTSD and social support over time and suggest that perceived social support from friends may be especially helpful during trauma recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M. Sippel
- Department of Veterans Affairs Northeast Program Evaluation Center, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
- National Center for PTSD, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Rachel E. Liebman
- Centre for Mental Health, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Sarah K. Schäfer
- Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research, 55122 Mainz, Germany
- Technische Universität Braunschweig, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Naomi Ennis
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Alexandra C. Mattern
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Department of Psychology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - David C. Rozek
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Candice M. Monson
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON M5B 2K3, Canada
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Antolí-Jover AM, Álvarez-Serrano MA, Gázquez-López M, Martín-Salvador A, Pérez-Morente MÁ, Martínez-García E, García-García I. Impact of Work-Life Balance on the Quality of Life of Spanish Nurses during the Sixth Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:598. [PMID: 38470709 PMCID: PMC10931316 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12050598] [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: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This study addresses the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of Spanish nurses during the sixth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, assessed through the EQ-5D and EQ-VAS indices. METHODS This cross-sectional 334 study used online surveys, recruiting 305 Spanish nurses. RESULTS Nurses generally perceived a good HRQoL. "Negative work-family interaction" is adversely associated with the EQ-VAS (β = -0.337, 95% CI [-1.733, -0.723]) and EQ-5D (β = -0.399, 95% CI [-0.021, -0.01]) indices, while "positive work-family interaction" shows a positive relationship with the EQ-VAS (β = 0.218, 95% CI [0.381, 1.759]). The presence of a "paid supportive caregiver" is positively associated with the EQ-VAS (β = 0.18, 95% CI [1.47, 12.3]) and EQ-5D (β = 0.149, 95% CI [0.004, 0.117]) indices, but a higher "number of children" is negatively linked with the EQ-5D index (β = -0.146, 95% CI [-0.061, -0.002]). In addition, living with a partner (EQ-VAS β = 0.16, 95% CI [1.094, 14.67] and EQ-5D index β = 0.174, 95% CI [0.018, 0.163]) and working a "rotating shift" (EQ-5D index β = 0.158, 95% CI [0.005, 0.098]) are positively associated. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the need to comprehensively address nurses' well-being, considering both their working conditions and their home environment, especially in crisis contexts such as the current pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana María Antolí-Jover
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, 51001 Ceuta, Spain;
| | | | - María Gázquez-López
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, 51001 Ceuta, Spain;
| | - Adelina Martín-Salvador
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (A.M.-S.); (E.M.-G.); (I.G.-G.)
| | | | - Encarnación Martínez-García
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (A.M.-S.); (E.M.-G.); (I.G.-G.)
- Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, 18014 Granada, Spain
| | - Inmaculada García-García
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (A.M.-S.); (E.M.-G.); (I.G.-G.)
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Haddad NR, Bhardwaj T, Zide BS, Kher H, Lipschitz JM, Hernandez MA, Hanser SB, Donovan N. A Remotely Delivered, Personalized Music Therapy Pilot Intervention for Lonely Older Adults During the Covid-19 Pandemic. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2024; 1:7-16. [PMID: 38993691 PMCID: PMC11236479 DOI: 10.1016/j.osep.2024.03.001] [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] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Introduction This study investigated a remotely delivered, therapist-facilitated, personalized music listening intervention for community-dwelling older adults experiencing loneliness during the Covid-19 pandemic. We assessed its feasibility and individuals' experiences of social connection and emotional well-being during the intervention. Methods Ten cognitively unimpaired older adults who endorsed loneliness completed eight weekly sessions with a board-certified music therapist via Zoom. Participants were guided in developing two online personalized music playlists and were asked to listen to playlists for at least one hour daily. Feasibility metrics were attendance, accessibility, and compliance rates. Post-study interview responses were analyzed using a rapid qualitative methodology. Exploratory pre- and post-study measures of loneliness and other aspects of psychological well-being were obtained using validated questionnaires. Results Ten participants (mean age 75.38 [65 to 85] years, 80% women) were enrolled from March to August 2021. Attendance and compliance rates were 100% and the accessibility rate was 90%. Most participants associated music with positive memories before the program and many reported that the intervention prompted them to reconnect with music or listen to music with greater intention. They cited increased connection from interacting with the music therapist and the music itself, as well as specific positive emotional impacts from integrating music into their daily lives. Median pre- to post-questionnaire measures of psychological function all changed in an improved direction. Discussion Remotely delivered music therapy may be a promising intervention to promote regular music listening and socioemotional well-being in lonely older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nichola R Haddad
- Department of Psychiatry (NRH, JML), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry (TB, BSZ, MAH, ND), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Psychiatry (HK), Emory St. Joseph's Hospital, Atlanta, GA; and the Berklee College of Music (SBH), Boston, MA. Send correspondence and reprint requests to: Nancy J. Donovan, M.D., 60 Fenwood Road 4120, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Twisha Bhardwaj
- Department of Psychiatry (NRH, JML), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry (TB, BSZ, MAH, ND), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Psychiatry (HK), Emory St. Joseph's Hospital, Atlanta, GA; and the Berklee College of Music (SBH), Boston, MA. Send correspondence and reprint requests to: Nancy J. Donovan, M.D., 60 Fenwood Road 4120, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Benjamin S Zide
- Department of Psychiatry (NRH, JML), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry (TB, BSZ, MAH, ND), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Psychiatry (HK), Emory St. Joseph's Hospital, Atlanta, GA; and the Berklee College of Music (SBH), Boston, MA. Send correspondence and reprint requests to: Nancy J. Donovan, M.D., 60 Fenwood Road 4120, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Hema Kher
- Department of Psychiatry (NRH, JML), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry (TB, BSZ, MAH, ND), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Psychiatry (HK), Emory St. Joseph's Hospital, Atlanta, GA; and the Berklee College of Music (SBH), Boston, MA. Send correspondence and reprint requests to: Nancy J. Donovan, M.D., 60 Fenwood Road 4120, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Jessica M Lipschitz
- Department of Psychiatry (NRH, JML), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry (TB, BSZ, MAH, ND), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Psychiatry (HK), Emory St. Joseph's Hospital, Atlanta, GA; and the Berklee College of Music (SBH), Boston, MA. Send correspondence and reprint requests to: Nancy J. Donovan, M.D., 60 Fenwood Road 4120, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Maria A Hernandez
- Department of Psychiatry (NRH, JML), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry (TB, BSZ, MAH, ND), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Psychiatry (HK), Emory St. Joseph's Hospital, Atlanta, GA; and the Berklee College of Music (SBH), Boston, MA. Send correspondence and reprint requests to: Nancy J. Donovan, M.D., 60 Fenwood Road 4120, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Suzanne B Hanser
- Department of Psychiatry (NRH, JML), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry (TB, BSZ, MAH, ND), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Psychiatry (HK), Emory St. Joseph's Hospital, Atlanta, GA; and the Berklee College of Music (SBH), Boston, MA. Send correspondence and reprint requests to: Nancy J. Donovan, M.D., 60 Fenwood Road 4120, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Nancy Donovan
- Department of Psychiatry (NRH, JML), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry (TB, BSZ, MAH, ND), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Department of Psychiatry (HK), Emory St. Joseph's Hospital, Atlanta, GA; and the Berklee College of Music (SBH), Boston, MA. Send correspondence and reprint requests to: Nancy J. Donovan, M.D., 60 Fenwood Road 4120, Boston, MA 02115
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Onebunne O, Dahlke S, Devkota R, Butler JI, Hunter KF, Fox MT, Chasteen AL, Moody E. Nursing Students' Views on an e-Learning Activity About Health Promotion for Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Gerontol Nurs 2024; 50:19-24. [PMID: 38417075 DOI: 10.3928/00989134-20240207-04] [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: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Nurses are graduating ill-prepared to work with older adults across care contexts. The education nursing students receive about older adults often focuses on managing illnesses rather than promoting health. To expand the education that nursing students receive regarding health promotion and older adults, we examined nursing students' perceptions of an e-learning activity on health promotion with older adults. METHOD We used a cross-sectional survey design. We included first-year baccalaureate nursing students (N = 260) at a Canadian university. Students were required to complete the module, but only those who wanted to participate in the study completed the survey (n = 167; response rate = 64.2%). We used a feedback survey to assess students' perceptions of the e-learning activity using four 5-point, Likert-type items. We also asked one open-ended question to solicit participants' feedback and suggestions for improving the e-learning activity. Descriptive statistics (frequency, mean [SD]) were used to summarize participants' perceptions and demographic characteristics. Content analysis was used to explore responses to the open-ended question. RESULTS Participants reported that the module increased their knowledge about health promotion, as well as their perceptions and confidence in working with older adults. Participants also found the method of instruction interactive and enjoyable. CONCLUSION Our e-learning activity on health promotion was perceived by nursing students as helpful in sensitizing them to their role in promoting health among older adults. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50(3), 19-24.].
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Zide BS, Donovan NJ, Lee S, Nag S, Bennett DA, Jacobs HIL. Social activity mediates locus coeruleus tangle-related cognition in older adults. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02467-y. [PMID: 38355788 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02467-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The locus coeruleus-noradrenaline system regulates brain-wide neural activity involved in cognition and behavior. Integrity of this subcortical neuromodulatory system is proposed to be a substrate of cognitive reserve that may be strengthened by lifetime cognitive and social activity. Conversely, accumulation of tau tangles in the brainstem locus coeruleus nuclei is recently studied as a very early marker of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis and cognitive vulnerability, even among older adults without cognitive impairment or significant cerebral AD pathologies. This clinical-pathologic study examined whether locus coeruleus tangle density was cross-sectionally associated with lower antemortem cognitive performance and social activity among 142 cognitively unimpaired and impaired older adults and whether social activity, a putative reserve factor, mediated the association of tangle density and cognition. We found that greater locus coeruleus tangle density was associated with lower social activity for the whole sample and in the cognitively unimpaired group alone and these associations were independent of age, sex, education, depressive symptoms, and burden of cerebral amyloid and tau. The association of locus coeruleus tangle density with lower cognitive performance was partially mediated by level of social activity. These findings implicate the locus coeruleus-noradrenaline system in late-life social function and support that locus coeruleus tangle pathology is associated with lower levels of social activity, independent of cerebral AD pathologies, and specifically among older adults who are cognitively unimpaired. Early brainstem pathology may impact social function, and level of social function, in turn, influences cognition, prior to canonical stages of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin S Zide
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nancy J Donovan
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Soyoung Lee
- Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sukriti Nag
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center and Department of Pathology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - David A Bennett
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center and Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Heidi I L Jacobs
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Alzheimer Centre, Limburg, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Liougas MP, Sommerlad A, O'Rourke HM, McGilton KS, Bethell J. Social connection measures for older adults living in long-term care homes: a systematic review protocol. Syst Rev 2024; 13:67. [PMID: 38360642 PMCID: PMC10867987 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-024-02468-6] [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: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Various measures have assessed social connection in long-term care (LTC) home residents. However, they use inconsistent terminology, conceptualizations, and operationalizations of social connection. In this systematic review protocol, we propose a study that will characterize measures that assess aspects of LTC home residents' social connection using a unified conceptual model. The objectives are to (1) describe and analyze the measures and (2) evaluate their measurement properties. METHODS A literature search was conducted in MEDLINE ALL (Ovid), Embase Classic and Embase (Ovid), Emcare Nursing (Ovid), APA PsycInfo (Ovid), Scopus, CINAHL Complete (EBSCOhost), AgeLine (EBSCOhost), and Sociological Abstracts (ProQuest). We will include primary research papers with no language limit, published from database inception. We will include studies of a measure of any aspect of social connection in LTC home residents that report at least one measurement property. Independently, two reviewers will screen titles and abstracts, review full-text articles against eligibility criteria, and extract data from included studies. In objective 1, we will analyze identified tools using an adapted framework method. In objective 2, we will evaluate each measure's measurement properties using COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) methodology. We will engage experts and stakeholders to assist with interpreting results and translating knowledge. DISCUSSION Our findings will inform the social connection in long-term care home residents (SONNET) study's development of a novel, person-centered measure for social connection in LTC home settings. We will present our findings in academic and non-academic forums, including conferences, peer-reviewed journals, and other publications. SYSTEMIC REVIEW REGISTRATION Prospero-"Systematic review of measures of social connection used in long-term care home research." CRD42022303526 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Madalena P Liougas
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 500 University Avenue, Suite 160, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Andrew Sommerlad
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, St Pancras Hospital, London, UK
| | - Hannah M O'Rourke
- College of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada
| | - Katherine S McGilton
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, 500 University Avenue, Suite 160, Toronto, ON, Canada
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer Bethell
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Ulichney V, Schmidt H, Helion C. Perceived Relational Support Is Associated With Everyday Positive, But Not Negative, Affectivity in a U.S. Sample. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY BULLETIN 2024:1461672231224991. [PMID: 38323578 DOI: 10.1177/01461672231224991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Research suggests that perceived social support bolsters emotional well-being. We tested whether perceived support from friends, family, and spouses/partners was associated with reduced negative and greater positive affectivity (i.e., everyday affective baseline), and whether perceived strain in these relationships had opposite effects, accounting for age and relevant covariates. Using data from the third waves of the Midlife in the United States survey and National Study of Daily Experience (n = 1,124), we found negative affectivity was not tied to relational support nor strain, but instead was associated positively with neuroticism and negatively with conscientiousness. In contrast, positive affectivity was related positively to support from friends and family, conscientiousness, and extroversion, and negatively to strain among partners and neuroticism. Exploratory analyses within second-wave Midlife in Japan data (n = 657) suggest patterns for future cross-cultural study. Some relationship dynamics may vary, but perceived support might enhance emotional well-being by bolstering positive, rather than mitigating negative, emotionality.
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Yuan RK, Kim YA, Cain SW, Münch MY, Ronda JM, Wang W, Czeisler CA, Duffy JF. Circadian- and wake-dependent influences on face-name memory in healthy men and women over 3weeks of chronic sleep restriction. Sleep Health 2024; 10:S84-S88. [PMID: 37783575 PMCID: PMC10980596 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleh.2023.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Facial recognition is one of the key functions of the human brain, and linking a face to a name is critical in many social and occupational settings. This study assessed circadian- and wake-dependent effects on face-name recognition in healthy adults. METHODS Thirteen healthy adults (20-70years; 7 F) were studied in a 39-day inpatient protocol that included 3weeks of 28 hours forced desynchrony with sleep restriction (6.5:21.5 hours sleep:wake). Starting 3 hours after scheduled wake, 6 novel face-name pairs were presented every 4 waking hours; recognition was tested 2 hours later. Performance data were averaged across ∼4 hours circadian phase or time-awake bins. RESULTS Face-name recognition deteriorated with increased time awake (p < .0001) and exhibited significant circadian variation (p < .0001), with worst performance shortly after the core temperature nadir. There was a significant interaction between sex and circadian phase (p = .0177), with women performing significantly better than men at all circadian phases except 60° and 120°. Women exhibited a significantly higher amplitude than men during the third week of forced desynchrony (p < .01). CONCLUSIONS Like many other aspects of neurobehavioral performance, recalling face-name associations is impacted by both duration of time awake and circadian phase. These results have implications for face recognition testing in medical contexts, such as in testing for dementia, because performance may be impacted by sleep deficiency and the time of testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin K Yuan
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | | | - Sean W Cain
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mirjam Y Münch
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joseph M Ronda
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Wei Wang
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Charles A Czeisler
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeanne F Duffy
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Procyshyn TL, Leclerc Bédard LA, Crespi BJ, Bartz JA. CD38 genetic variation is associated with increased personal distress to an emotional stimulus. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2571. [PMID: 38297097 PMCID: PMC10831108 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53081-5] [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: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Genetic variation in CD38-a putative oxytocin pathway gene-has been linked to higher oxytocin levels, empathy, and sensitive parenting, but also to more negative interpersonal outcomes (e.g., alienation from friends and family, poorer romantic relationship quality). To reconcile these seemingly contradictory findings, we drew upon the idea that CD38 variation may heighten social-emotional sensitivity and, consequently, make individuals prone to negative emotions in distressing interpersonal situations. To test this hypothesis, we performed a secondary analysis of a dataset including participants' (n = 171; 94 females) empathic concern ("sympathetic") and distress-related ("anxious") responses to an emotional video. Distress responses were higher for the CD38 rs3796863 AA/AC group vs. the CC group (p = 0.03, η2 = 0.027); however, there was no significant effect of genotype for empathic concern responses to the video or for indices of trait empathy. These findings provide preliminary evidence that, in the face of an interpersonal stressor, CD38 genetic variation may predict more self-focused, aversive emotional reactions. More broadly, this finding highlights the need to adopt a more nuanced perspective in which the influence of oxytocin system variation (assessed by oxytocin-related genetic variation) should be considered in light of the social context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya L Procyshyn
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 8AH, UK.
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Canada.
| | - Laury-Ann Leclerc Bédard
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, 2001 McGill College Avenue, Montreal, H3A 1G1, Canada
| | - Bernard J Crespi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Jennifer A Bartz
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, 2001 McGill College Avenue, Montreal, H3A 1G1, Canada
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Murray SL, Pascuzzi GS. Pursuing Safety in Social Connection: A Flexibly Fluid Perspective on Risk Regulation in Relationships. Annu Rev Psychol 2024; 75:379-404. [PMID: 37585668 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-psych-011123-024815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
People are fundamentally motivated to be included in social connections that feel safe, connections where they are consistently cared for and protected, not hurt or exploited. Romantic relationships have long played a crucial role in satisfying this fundamental need. This article reconceptualizes the risk-regulation model to argue that people draw on experiences from inside and outside their romantic relationships to satisfy their fundamental need to feel safe depending on others. We first review the direct relational cues (i.e., a partner's affectionate touch, responsive versus unresponsive behavior, and relative power) and indirect cues (i.e., bodily sensations, collective value in the eyes of others, and living conditions) that signal the current safety of social connection and motivate people to connect to others or protect themselves against them. We then review how people's chronic capacity to trust in others controls their sensitivity and reactivity to the safety cues. The article concludes with future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra L Murray
- Department of Psychology, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA; ,
| | - Gabriela S Pascuzzi
- Department of Psychology, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA; ,
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De Risio L, Pettorruso M, Collevecchio R, Collacchi B, Boffa M, Santorelli M, Clerici M, Martinotti G, Zoratto F, Borgi M. Staying connected: An umbrella review of meta-analyses on the push-and-pull of social connection in depression. J Affect Disord 2024; 345:358-368. [PMID: 37852587 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.10.112] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression affects approximately 4 % of the global population and has huge social and economic implications. Social factors, including support, engagement, and stigma, play a crucial role in the development and severity of depression. METHODS We provide a synthesis of the consistency and magnitude of the association between measures of social connection and depression. We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE and 47 meta-analyses were included in the umbrella review. The strength of the associations was extracted and compared among different populations. The quality/certainty of evidence was assessed using AMSTAR-2 and GRADE tool. RESULTS Results indicate that social support serves as a protective factor against depression, particularly in peripartum populations, while its impact is weaker in clinical populations. No association was found between social support and depression in post-disaster populations. Stigma and discrimination favour the development and maintenance of depressive symptoms in clinical populations, but have a weaker effect in ethnic minorities. LIMITATIONS The quality and certainty of evidence should be taken into account when interpreting our findings. Further research with more rigorous methodology and higher-quality evidence is needed to better understand the complex relationship between depression and social connection across various populations and contexts. CONCLUSIONS Our findings confirm the role of social determinants in the emergence and severity of depression, particularly in the case of vulnerable populations. Efforts to counteract disconnection at the societal and individual levels and to reduce stigma should be central to an effective depression prevention agenda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa De Risio
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, ASL Roma 5, Colleferro, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Pettorruso
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
| | - Rebecca Collevecchio
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Barbara Collacchi
- Center for Behavioural Science and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Boffa
- Center for Behavioural Science and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Santorelli
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano - Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Massimo Clerici
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano - Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martinotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Francesca Zoratto
- Center for Behavioural Science and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Borgi
- Center for Behavioural Science and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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Matthews T, Rasmussen LJH, Ambler A, Danese A, Eugen-Olsen J, Fancourt D, Fisher HL, Iversen KK, Schultz M, Sugden K, Williams B, Caspi A, Moffitt TE. Social isolation, loneliness, and inflammation: A multi-cohort investigation in early and mid-adulthood. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 115:727-736. [PMID: 37992788 PMCID: PMC11194667 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.11.022] [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: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Social isolation and loneliness have been associated with poor health and increased risk for mortality, and inflammation might explain this link. We used data from the Danish TRIAGE Study of acutely admitted medical patients (N = 6,144, mean age 60 years), and from two population-representative birth cohorts: the New Zealand Dunedin Longitudinal Study (N = 881, age 45) and the UK Environmental Risk (E-Risk) Longitudinal Twin Study (N = 1448, age 18), to investigate associations of social isolation with three markers of systemic inflammation: C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and a newer inflammation marker, soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR), which is thought to index systemic chronic inflammation. In the TRIAGE Study, socially isolated patients (those living alone) had significantly higher median levels of suPAR (but not CRP or IL-6) compared with patients not living by themselves. Social isolation prospectively measured in childhood was longitudinally associated with higher CRP, IL-6, and suPAR levels in adulthood (at age 45 in the Dunedin Study and age 18 in the E-Risk Study), but only suPAR remained associated after controlling for covariates. Dunedin Study participants who reported loneliness at age 38 or age 45 had elevated suPAR at age 45. In contrast, E-Risk Study participants reporting loneliness at age 18 did not show any elevated markers of inflammation. In conclusion, social isolation was robustly associated with increased inflammation in adulthood, both in medical patients and in the general population. It was associated in particular with systemic chronic inflammation, evident from the consistently stronger associations with suPAR than other inflammation biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Matthews
- School of Human Sciences, Faculty of Education, Health and Human Sciences, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Line Jee Hartmann Rasmussen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Antony Ambler
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Danese
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom; National and Specialist CAMHS Trauma and Anxiety Clinic, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jesper Eugen-Olsen
- Department of Clinical Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark; ViroGates A/S, Birkerød, Denmark
| | - Daisy Fancourt
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen L Fisher
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom; ESRC Centre for Society and Mental Health, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kasper Karmark Iversen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark; Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin Schultz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Karen Sugden
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Benjamin Williams
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Avshalom Caspi
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Terrie E Moffitt
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Friedman E, Franks M, Teas E, Thomas PA. Social connectedness, functional capacity, and longevity: A focus on positive relations with others. Soc Sci Med 2024; 340:116419. [PMID: 37992615 PMCID: PMC10843814 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE A large literature links social connectedness to health, but there is growing recognition of considerable nuance in the ways social connectedness is defined, assessed, and associated with health. OBJECTIVE This study centers on positive relations with others - a measure derived from philosophical notions of the components of a "good life" - and the extent to which it predicts functional limitations and mortality using data from the national, longitudinal Mid-Life in the United States (MIDUS) study. We also assess whether these associations are independent of two common measures of social connectedness: social integration and social support. METHODS Data on social connectedness came from the first wave of MIDUS (1994-1996), self-reported functional limitations were from the first (MIDUS 1) and third (MIDUS 3; 2013-2014) waves, and mortality data through 2022 were obtained from the National Death Index. RESULTS Linear regression analyses showed that higher scores on positive relations with others predicted significantly less increase in functional limitations over time, and logistic regression models showed reduced probability of onset of functional limitations between MIDUS 1 and MIDUS 3 in those scoring higher on positive relations with others. Mortality was also significantly lower in those with higher scores on positive relations with others. All models adjusted for demographic and health characteristics, and all associations were robust to the inclusion of social integration and social support in the models. CONCLUSIONS These results show that positive relations with others, a component of a well-lived life that describes sustained investment in social relationships that are mutual and trusting, is associated with two key health outcomes in aging adults: functional limitations and longevity. That these associations are independent of social integration and social support suggests a unique role for this formulation of social connectedness in the health of aging adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot Friedman
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA; Center for Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
| | - Melissa Franks
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA; Center for Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Elizabeth Teas
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA; Center for Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Patricia A Thomas
- Departments of Sociology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA; Center for Aging and the Life Course, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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Bulger EM. "We are in this together": The power of social connection. J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2024; 96:1-7. [PMID: 37853561 DOI: 10.1097/ta.0000000000004166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Eileen M Bulger
- From the Department of Surgery, University of Washington; Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, Washington
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Groechel RC, Liu AC, Koton S, Kucharska-Newton AM, Lutsey PL, Mosley TH, Palta P, Sharrett AR, Walker KA, Wong DF, Gottesman RF. Associations Between Mid-Life Psychosocial Measures and Estimated Late Life Amyloid Burden: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC)-PET Study. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 97:1901-1911. [PMID: 38339934 DOI: 10.3233/jad-231218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Background Psychosocial factors are modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer's disease (AD). One mechanism linking psychosocial factors to AD risk may be through biological measures of brain amyloid; however, this association has not been widely studied. Objective To determine if mid-life measures of social support and social isolation in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study cohort are associated with late life brain amyloid burden, measured using florbetapir positron emission tomography (PET). Methods Measures of social support and social isolation were assessed in ARIC participants (visit 2: 1990-1992). Brain amyloid was evaluated with florbetapir PET standardized uptake value ratios (SUVRs; visit 5: 2012-2014). Results Among 316 participants without dementia, participants with intermediate (odds ratio (OR), 0.47; 95% CI, 0.25-0.88), or low social support (OR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.22-0.83) in mid-life were less likely to have elevated amyloid SUVRs, relative to participants with high social support. Participants with moderate risk for social isolation in mid-life (OR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.14-0.74) were less likely to have elevated amyloid burden than participants at low risk for social isolation. These associations were not significantly modified by sex or race. Conclusions Lower social support and moderate risk of social isolation in mid-life were associated with lower odds of elevated amyloid SUVR in late life, compared to participants with greater mid-life psychosocial measures. Future longitudinal studies evaluating mid-life psychosocial factors, in relation to brain amyloid as well as other health outcomes, will strengthen our understanding of the role of these factors throughout the lifetime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee C Groechel
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Albert C Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Silvia Koton
- Department of Nursing, The Stanley Steyer School of Health Professions, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anna M Kucharska-Newton
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Pamela L Lutsey
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Thomas H Mosley
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Priya Palta
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - A Richey Sharrett
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Keenan A Walker
- National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Dean F Wong
- Department of Radiology, Washington University, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Rebecca F Gottesman
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Liang YY, Chen Y, Feng H, Xue H, Nie Y, Ai QYH, Ma J, Yang L, Zhang J, Ai S. Social isolation, loneliness and subsequent risk of major adverse cardiovascular events among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Gen Psychiatr 2023; 36:e101153. [PMID: 38170087 PMCID: PMC10759055 DOI: 10.1136/gpsych-2023-101153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are more vulnerable to social disconnection compared with the general population; however, there are few relevant studies investigating this issue. Aims To investigate whether social isolation or loneliness may be associated with subsequent risk of developing major adverse cardiovascular events, whether these associations vary according to fatal and non-fatal outcomes and how behavioural, psychological and physiological factors mediate these associations. Methods This longitudinal analysis included data from 19 360 individuals with T2DM at baseline (2006-2010) from the UK Biobank. Social isolation and loneliness were measured using self-report questionnaires. The study outcomes included the first events of myocardial infarction (MI) or stroke (n=2273) and all-cause (n=2820) or cardiovascular disease-related mortality through linked hospital data or death registries. Results Over a median follow-up of 12.4 years (interquartile range (IQR): 11.6-13.3 years), participants who were more socially isolated (most social isolation vs least social isolation) experienced increased risks for all-cause (hazard ratio (HR) : 1.33, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.19 to 1.47) and cardiovascular disease (HR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.17 to 1.59) mortality but not first MI or stroke. Loneliness (yes vs no) was associated with a greater risk for a composite of incident MI or stroke (HR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.19 to 1.57) but not mortality. Social isolation was associated with fatal MI and stroke, whereas loneliness was associated with non-fatal MI and stroke. The significant associations of social isolation and loneliness with outcomes were mainly mediated by behavioural factors (mediating proportion: 17.8%-28.2% and 17.6%-17.8%, respectively). Conclusions Among individuals with T2DM, social isolation and loneliness are associated with a greater risk of developing major adverse cardiovascular events, with differences in both risks stratified according to fatal and non-fatal events and underlying mediating factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannis Yan Liang
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Psycho-neuroscience, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yilin Chen
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Department of Neurology and National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongliang Feng
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Huachen Xue
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Nie
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qi-Yong H Ai
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Jiacheng Ma
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lulu Yang
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jihui Zhang
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Sizhi Ai
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Weihui, Henan, China
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Jin J, Ikeda H. The Role of Empathic Communication in the Relationship between Servant Leadership and Workplace Loneliness: A Serial Mediation Model. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 14:4. [PMID: 38275346 PMCID: PMC10812758 DOI: 10.3390/bs14010004] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Researchers have increasingly concentrated on loneliness in the workplace as a crucial factor influencing the mental health of employees and the viability of telework. In contrast, the current understanding of the strategies mitigating workplace loneliness and how leaders utilize their behaviors to impact followers' loneliness remains limited. Since servant leadership values the emotional needs of followers and displays a high level of empathy, this study investigated the direct and indirect effects of servant leadership on workplace loneliness. In this study, 267 employees (mean age = 31.5 years) from 28 provinces in China were recruited to participate in this survey. We proposed that servant leaders motivate their own empathic communication and other followers' empathic communication to reduce lonely followers' workplace loneliness. This research further examined the relationship between the leader's and colleagues' empathic communication, and the two jointly mediate the connection between servant leadership and followers' workplace loneliness. We constructed a serial mediation model to examine the relationships between servant leadership, leader's empathic communication, colleagues' empathic communication, and workplace loneliness. The results indicate that servant leadership creates a cycle of empathy and provides insights into building a culture of empathy to improve employee well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaying Jin
- Graduate School of Human-Environment Studies, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 8190382, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ikeda
- Faculty of Human-Environment Studies, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 8190382, Japan
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Shenderovich Y, Piolanti A, Babii V, Calovska-Hertzog N, Evans RE, Heinrichs N, Burgund Isakov A, Lesco G, Moore G, Mueller J, Raleva M, Shimbov B, Simon J, Waller F, Wienand D, Foran HM. Family-focused intervention to promote adolescent mental health and well-being in Moldova and North Macedonia (FLOURISH): feasibility study protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e080400. [PMID: 38072469 PMCID: PMC11148709 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-080400] [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] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Family-Focused Adolescent & Lifelong Health Promotion (FLOURISH) project will adapt, implement and evaluate a programme to support adolescent mental health and well-being through strategies, such as strengthening parenting practices, adolescent-caregiver relationships, adolescent and parent socioemotional skills, and social support. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The project will focus on adolescents aged 10-14 years and their caregivers in North Macedonia and Moldova. The countries were selected based on implementation readiness of two organisations and a need for accessible evidence-informed services to help mitigate health risks due to economic, social and political challenges. Parenting for Lifelong Health (PLH) for Parents and Teens is a family-based programme developed for low-resource settings. PLH has been adapted with input from advisory groups. The programme includes additional components to strengthen impacts on adolescents: adolescent mental health tools, based on UNICEF's Helping Adolescents Thrive, adolescent peer support and participation booster. This pilot is first of three study phases. The pilot will be a feasibility testing of the adapted intervention and the assessment and implementation procedures to determine further refinements. The pilot will examine if the adapted programme is acceptable for adolescents, their families and providers, explore contextual factors relevant to embedding this programme into longer-term scale-up and investigate whether the programme can be delivered with fidelity and participation; whether the participants report changes in adolescent emotional and behavioural problems, well-being and other outcomes; and whether the study tools are feasible and appropriate. Pre-post adolescent and caregiver questionnaires will provide outcome data. Process evaluation will include attendance and fidelity data, and focus groups. We will examine delivery cost and resource requirements. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study was approved at the University of Klagenfurt (Austria), Medical Faculty at St. Cyril and Methodius University (North Macedonia) and National Committee of Ethical Expertise for Clinical Trials (Moldova). Through stakeholder engagement and dissemination, FLOURISH will advance scale-up of open-source family interventions. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Trial registration: ID101095528; project page: https://www.flourish-study.org/about.html; https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-study/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulia Shenderovich
- Centre for the Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Antonio Piolanti
- Institute of Psychology, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Viorel Babii
- Asociatia Obsteasca Sanatate Pentru Tineri (Health for Youth Association), Chisinau, Moldova
| | - Nevena Calovska-Hertzog
- Department for Psychology, Faculty for Media and Communication, Singidunum University, Belgrade, Serbia
- AST Centre for Education, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Rhiannon E Evans
- Centre for the Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Nina Heinrichs
- Department of Psychology, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Anita Burgund Isakov
- Faculty of Political Sciences, Department of Social Policy and Social Work, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Galina Lesco
- Asociatia Obsteasca Sanatate Pentru Tineri (Health for Youth Association), Chisinau, Moldova
| | - Graham Moore
- Centre for the Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Janina Mueller
- Institute of Psychology, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Marija Raleva
- Institute for Marriage, Family and Systemic Practice-ALTERNATIVA, Skopje, North Macedonia
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ss Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Skopje, North Macedonia
| | - Bojan Shimbov
- Instituto de Economía Internacional, Department of Economics, University Jaume I Castellon, Castellón de la Plana, Spain
| | - Judit Simon
- Department of Health Economics, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford University, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Franziska Waller
- Institute of Psychology, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Dennis Wienand
- Department of Health Economics, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Heather M Foran
- Institute of Psychology, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt, Austria
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Bradley N, Dowrick C, Lloyd-Williams M. Explaining how and why social support groups in hospice day services benefit palliative care patients, for whom, and in what circumstances. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2023; 17:26323524231214549. [PMID: 38044931 PMCID: PMC10693225 DOI: 10.1177/26323524231214549] [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] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Palliative care aims to provide holistic support for people with life-limiting illness, responding to psychological, social and spiritual needs, as well as to clinical and physical. In the United Kingdom, hospice day services (including day care, group interventions, group activities, and social events for palliative care outpatients) aim to provide opportunities for patients to gain social support, which is thought to improve their quality of life. Objectives This research explored social support within hospice day services, to explain in detail how and why social support obtained within a hospice day service could be beneficial to palliative care patients. Design Qualitative research using observations of hospice day services and interviews with service providers. Methods Data collection involved nineteen interviews with hospice service providers (n = 19) and researcher observations of hospice day services. The findings detail how patient and hospice context interact to produce mechanisms that lead to outcomes beyond the hospice day service. Results Practical, clinical and social aspects of the hospice day service are important for patients feeling welcome and safe in the setting. The opportunity to connect with other people and work towards personal goals can boost self-confidence for patients who have lost access to meaningful activity. New friendships between patients encourages reciprocal support and feelings of belonging. It is beneficial to have permission to speak freely about topics deemed inappropriate elsewhere, because honest communication is helpful in accepting and adapting to their circumstances. Conclusion Hospice day services facilitate group settings for reciprocal social support. This research proposes an initial programme theory that can be further developed and tested. It explains how and why, in some contexts, social support increases personal and practical resources to cope with illness and death, leading to changes outside of the hospice (to mood, interpersonal interactions and behaviour) that could improve quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Bradley
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT7 1NN, UK
- Centre for Health & Clinical Research, University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol BS16 1DD, UK
| | - Christopher Dowrick
- Department of Primary Care and Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mari Lloyd-Williams
- Department of Primary Care and Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Wong R, DeGraff DS, Orozco-Rocha K. Economic Resources and Health: A Bi-Directional Cycle for Resilience in Old Age. J Aging Health 2023; 35:767-780. [PMID: 37260226 PMCID: PMC10637084 DOI: 10.1177/08982643231179873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: The paper offers an expanded framework for conducting empirical research on resilient aging. Methods: We review the conceptual frameworks for resilient aging and incorporate the role of economic factors as resources that contribute to resilience, in addition to social and psychological factors emphasized in the existing literature. Moreover, the idea of reinforcing cycles of resilience is incorporated in the framework. Existing empirical evidence that supports the conceptual arguments is presented. Results: Examples from Mexico and other low-middle-income countries are included, as well as from high-income countries. Data requirements for applying the conceptual framework in empirical analysis and the state of data availability are examined. We illustrate the measures that are available for this purpose using the Mexican Health and Aging Study. Discussion: We discuss and conclude that the state of the field is rich in data to conduct empirical work on resilience in old age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Wong
- Sealy Center on Aging, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
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Vanhollebeke G, Aers F, Goethals L, Raedt RD, Baeken C, Mierlo PV, Vanderhasselt MA. Uncovering the underlying factors of ERP changes in the cyberball paradigm: A systematic review investigating the impact of ostracism and paradigm characteristics. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 155:105464. [PMID: 37977278 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The Cyberball is the most commonly employed paradigm for the investigation of the effects of social exclusion, also called ostracism. The analysis of event-related potentials (ERPs), short-term stimulus-induced fluctuations in the EEG signal, has been employed for the identification of time-sensitive neural responses to ostracism-related information. Changes in ERPs during the Cyberball are normally attributed to the effect of ostracism, but it has been argued that characteristics of the paradigm, not ostracism, are the driving force for these changes. To elucidate the origin of the ERP changes in the Cyberball, we systematically reviewed the Cyberball-ERP literature of healthy, adult populations, and evaluated whether the social context of ostracism or characteristics of the paradigm are better suited for the explanation of the found results. Our results show that for many components no clear origin can be identified, but that expectancy violations, not ostracism, best explains the results of the P3 complex. Future research should therefore also employ other paradigms for the research into the effects of ostracism on ERPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gert Vanhollebeke
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Electronics and Information Systems, Medical Image and Signal Processing Group (MEDISIP), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Fiebe Aers
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lauren Goethals
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rudi De Raedt
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Chris Baeken
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital (UZBrussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pieter van Mierlo
- Department of Electronics and Information Systems, Medical Image and Signal Processing Group (MEDISIP), Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marie-Anne Vanderhasselt
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) Lab, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Jensen A, Folker AP, Lindström M, Ekholm O. Arts and culture engagement for health: a Danish population-based study. Public Health 2023; 225:120-126. [PMID: 37925836 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2023.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Global health challenges are complex and new approaches are pivotal. Engagement in arts and cultural activities is commonplace across different cultures, and research shows associations with benefits for health and wellbeing. Using the arts for health promotion and prevention of illness has increased worldwide. STUDY DESIGN A population-based study. METHODS Data were obtained from the Danish Health and Wellbeing Survey in 2019. A self-administered questionnaire was sent to 14,000 randomly selected adults (aged ≥15 years). The questionnaire included items on self-rated health and frequency of participation in various cultural activities (concerts or musical events; participation in a choir, band, or orchestra; theatre show or other performing arts; cinema; art museum or exhibition; library). A cultural participation index was calculated based on the six questions on cultural activities. Logistic regression models were fitted to examine the associations between the index and good self-rated health, adjusting for relevant covariates. RESULTS In total, 6629 individuals completed the questionnaire (47.4%). The most frequent activity, used at least once a month, was visiting a library. A strong association between the cultural participation index and self-reported health was observed. A one-point-higher index score was associated with a 10% higher likelihood of having good self-reported health (adjusted odds ratio: 1.10; 95% confidence interval: 1.08-1.12). CONCLUSIONS This study supports the understanding that engagement in arts and cultural activities is beneficial for self-rated good health. Individuals with higher frequency of arts and culture engagement were more likely to report good health than those with lower engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Jensen
- Social Medicine and Health Policy, Department of Clinical Science & Centre for Primary Health Care, Lund University and Region Skåne, Sweden.
| | - Anna Paldam Folker
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
| | - Martin Lindström
- Social Medicine and Health Policy, Department of Clinical Science & Centre for Primary Health Care, Lund University and Region Skåne, Sweden
| | - Ola Ekholm
- National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark
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50
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Voogdt-Pruis HR, van den Brekel L, Wispelweij L, Jawalapershad L, Narain S, Vaartjes ICH, Grobbee DE, Klipstein-Grobusch K. Towards Better Culturally Tailored Cardiometabolic Prevention Among the South-Asian Surinamese in the Netherlands. Int J Public Health 2023; 68:1606380. [PMID: 38090667 PMCID: PMC10713809 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1606380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To gain insight in the motives and determinants for the uptake of healthy lifestyles by South-Asian Surinamese people to identify needs and engagement strategies for healthy lifestyle support. Methods: We used a mixed-method design: first, focus groups with South-Asian Surinamese women; second, a questionnaire directed at their social network, and third, interviews with health professionals. Qualitative content analysis, basic statistical analyses and triangulation of data were applied. Results: Sixty people participated (n = 30 women, n = 20 social network, n = 10 professionals). Respondent groups reported similar motives and determinants for healthy lifestyles. In general, cardiometabolic prevention was in line with the perspectives and needs of South-Asian Surinamese. However, there seems to be a mismatch too: South-Asian Surinamese people missed a culturally sensitive approach, whereas professionals experienced difficulty with patient adherence. Incremental changes to current lifestyles; including the social network, and an encouraging approach seem to be key points for improvement of professional cardiometabolic prevention. Conclusion: Some key points for better culturally tailoring of preventive interventions would meet the needs and preferences of the South-Asian Surinamese living in the Netherlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene R. Voogdt-Pruis
- Department of Global Public Health and Bioethics, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Lieke van den Brekel
- Department of Global Public Health and Bioethics, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Lian Wispelweij
- Department of Global Public Health and Bioethics, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | | | - Ilonca C. H. Vaartjes
- Department of Global Public Health and Bioethics, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Diederick E. Grobbee
- Department of Global Public Health and Bioethics, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Kerstin Klipstein-Grobusch
- Department of Global Public Health and Bioethics, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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