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Wang Y. Who's Worried? Memory, Worries About Dementia, and Marital Strain in Midlife Same- and Different-Sex Marriages: A Dyadic Perspective. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2024; 79:gbae090. [PMID: 38767242 PMCID: PMC11226995 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbae090] [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: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prior scholarship has highlighted the importance of marriage for cognition. However, little research has considered how cognition-related concerns may impact marriage. In this study, researchers examine how aging couples view each other's memory and worry about their potential development of dementia in the future. Additionally, researchers investigate whether these cognition-related concerns may strain marriage, and how these dynamics differ for men and women in same- and different-sex marriages. METHODS Researchers used 2 waves of dyadic data from the Health and Relationships Project (HARP; 2015-2022), including 594 respondents from 297 same- and different-sex married couples (aged 41-71 at Time 2). Researchers employed the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) to explore associations between actor and partner reports of memory and dementia worry with marital strain. RESULTS Men and women in same- and different-sex marriages were equally likely to report worries about their own potential development of dementia. However, women reported more concerns about their spouse developing dementia in the future than men did, regardless of whether they were married to a man or a woman. Both partners' reports of memory and dementia worry played a complex role in influencing marital strain, with variations observed across couple types. DISCUSSION Concerns about cognitive decline and dementia are common in older populations, and for married couples, spouses have concerns about their own memory as well as that of their partner. Researchers finding identified the significance of concerns about a spouse's memory on marital dynamics among aging couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwen Wang
- Department of Sociology, Rice University, Houston, Texas, USA
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2
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Hendriks GJ, Janssen N, Robertson L, van Balkom AJ, van Zelst WH, Wolfe S, Oude Voshaar RC, Uphoff E. Cognitive behavioural therapy and third-wave approaches for anxiety and related disorders in older people. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 7:CD007674. [PMID: 38973756 PMCID: PMC11229394 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007674.pub3] [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: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the most researched psychological therapy for anxiety disorders in adults, and known to be effective in this population. However, it remains unclear whether these results apply to older adults, as most studies include participants between 18 and 55 years of age. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date synthesis of the available evidence on CBT and third wave approaches for older adults with anxiety and related disorders. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CT, BT, CBT and third-wave CBT interventions) on severity of anxiety symptoms compared with minimal management (not providing therapy) for anxiety and related disorders in older adults, aged 55 years or over. To assess the effects of CBT and related therapies on severity of anxiety symptoms compared with other psychological therapies for anxiety and related disorders in older adults, aged 55 years or over. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Common Mental Disorders Controlled studies Register (CCMDCTR), CENTRAL, Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase and Ovid PsycINFO to 21 July 2022. These searches were updated on 2 February 2024. We also searched the international studies registries, including Clinicalstudies.gov and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), to identify additional ongoing and unpublished studies. These sources were manually searched for studies up to 12 February 2024. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in older adults (≥ 55 years) with an anxiety disorder, or a related disorder, including obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), acute stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), that compared CBT to either minimal management or an active (non-CBT) psychological therapy. Eligible studies had to have an anxiety-related outcome. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Several authors independently screened all titles identified by the searches. All full texts were screened for eligibility according to our prespecified selection criteria. Data were extracted and the risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool for RCTs. The certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE. Meta-analyses were performed for outcomes with quantitative data from more than one study. MAIN RESULTS We included 21 RCTs on 1234 older people allocated to either CBT or control conditions. Ten studies focused on generalised anxiety disorder; others mostly included a mix of clinical diagnoses. Nineteen studies focused on the comparison between CBT and minimal management. Key issues relating to risk of bias were lack of blinding of participants and personnel, and participants dropping out of studies, potentially due to treatment preference and allocation. CBT may result in a small-to-moderate reduction of anxiety post-treatment (SMD -0.51, 95% CI -0.66 to -0.36, low-certainty evidence). However, compared to this benefit with CBT immediately after treatment, at three to six months post-treatment, there was little to no difference between CBT and minimal management (SMD -0.29, 95% CI -0.59 to 0.01, low-certainty evidence). CBT may have little or no effect on clinical recovery/ improvement post-treatment compared to minimal management, but the evidence is very uncertain (RR 1.56, 95% CI 1.20 to 2.03, very low-certainty evidence). Results indicate that five people would need to receive treatment for one additional person to benefit (NNTB = 5). Compared to minimal management, CBT may result in a reduction of comorbid depression symptoms post-treatment (SMD -0.57, 95% CI -0.74 to -0.40, low-certainty evidence). There was no difference in dropout rates post-treatment, although the certainty of the evidence was low (RR 1.19, 95% CI 0.80 to 1.78). Two studies reported adverse events, both of which related to medication in the control groups (very low-certainty evidence, no quantitative estimate). Only two studies compared CBT to other psychological therapies, both of which only included participants with post-traumatic stress disorder. Low-certainty evidence showed no difference in anxiety severity post-treatment and at four to six months post-treatment, symptoms of depression post-treatment, and dropout rates post-treatment. Other outcomes and time points are reported in the results section of the manuscript. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS CBT may be more effective than minimal management in reducing anxiety and symptoms of worry and depression post-treatment in older adults with anxiety disorders. The evidence is less certain longer-term and for other outcomes including clinical recovery/improvement. There is not enough evidence to determine whether CBT is more effective than alternative psychological therapies for anxiety in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gert-Jan Hendriks
- "Overwaal" Centre of Expertise for Anxiety Disorders, OCD and PTSD, Institute for Integrated Mental Health Care "Pro Persona, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Noortje Janssen
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - Anton J van Balkom
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Centre Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam Public Health Institute and GGZ inGeest, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Willeke H van Zelst
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Samantha Wolfe
- Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, Durham, UK
| | | | - Eleonora Uphoff
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
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Chen Y, Gao X, Sun F. Perceived Threat of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Among Chinese Family Caregivers of Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment. JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK 2024:1-19. [PMID: 38590188 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2024.2339984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Perceived threat of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) has been found a widespread phenomenon in developed countries, but has not yet been fully explored in developing countries. Analyzing data from 300 family caregivers of older adults with cognitive impairment in China, this study found caregiver burden was positively associated with the perceived threat of ADRD, and this association was buffered by higher family income and longer caregiving time. To alleviate undue ADRD concerns, it suggests expanding respite care and community elder care beds, and initiating education programs on reducing unnecessary worries about developing ADRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaofeng Chen
- School of Sociology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Elder Service Research Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- School of Sociology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Elder Service Research Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fei Sun
- School of Social Work, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Discussions on age-related issues have begun taking place in earnest, but exactly what dominates public consciousness about these issues is a topic that has yet to kindle scholarly attention. This study analyzes tweets uploaded by age advocacy organizations that have attracted the highest levels of engagement on Twitter. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We collected 403,426 tweets from 53 accounts. These tweets were posted over 12 years, from 2009 to 2021. After applying our exclusion criteria and collating the top 1% of tweets with the highest levels of engagement, 2,054 tweets were retained for analysis. Both inductive and deductive approaches informed our qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Five themes emerged. "Issues Related to Alzheimer's Disease or Dementia" (Theme 1) formed the majority of tweets (62%; N = 1,278). Theme 2 "Rising Health Care or Retirement Costs" was the second largest theme (25%; N = 506). Seven percent of the tweets were on "Reframing Aging and Combating Ageism" (Theme 3; N = 138). "Matters Affecting Caregivers" surfaced in Theme 4 (4%; N = 81). Two percent of the tweets were on "Intersectional Concerns" (Theme 5; N = 51). DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS As age advocacy organizations step up to engage the public constructively in matters regarding later life, there is a compelling need to quell public anxiety about old age and to sensitize society to the struggles confronted by older adults. In undertaking the range of activities needed to do so, age advocacy organizations should consolidate efforts even as they rethink existing strategies to effectuate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reuben Ng
- Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Lloyd's Register Foundation Institute for the Public Understanding of Risk, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Nicole Indran
- Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Farina FR, Pavithra P, An H, Marquez M, O'Loughlin P, Regan J, Taddeo M, Bennett M, Lenaert B, Griffith JW. Validation of the Fear and Avoidance of Memory Loss scale in community-based older adults. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 15:e12432. [PMID: 37101711 PMCID: PMC10123382 DOI: 10.1002/dad2.12432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) are among the most feared conditions. However, research around ADRD-specific fear and avoidance behaviors is lacking. Here, we validated a novel measure of fear and avoidance specific to memory loss, the Fear and Avoidance of Memory Loss (FAM) scale, and examined associations between fear avoidance and psychosocial functioning in older adults. Methods We assessed FAM Scale internal reliability and concurrent validity, and candidate subscales across two samples (total N = 813). We then examined associations between fear avoidance and memory performance, anxiety, depressive symptoms, sleep, social functioning, and quality of life. Results We identified two subscales: fear and avoidance, which yielded strong psychometric validity. Higher fear was associated with memory failures and sleep disturbance. Higher avoidance was associated with memory failures, poorer verbal memory, reduced social functioning, and quality of life. Discussion We present the first measure of fear avoidance specific to memory loss. We propose that targeting fear avoidance can promote ADRD risk reduction and resiliency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca R. Farina
- Feinberg School of MedicineDepartment of Medical Social SciencesNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
- Global Brain Health InstituteTrinity College DublinDublinIreland
- School of PsychologyTrinity College DublinDublinIreland
| | | | - Hosanna An
- Feinberg School of MedicineDepartment of Medical Social SciencesNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Melissa Marquez
- Feinberg School of MedicineDepartment of Medical Social SciencesNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | | | - John Regan
- School of PsychologyTrinity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Michelle Taddeo
- Feinberg School of MedicineDepartment of Medical Social SciencesNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | - Marc Bennett
- School of PsychologyUniversity College DublinDublinIreland
| | - Bert Lenaert
- Faculty of PsychologyOpen UniversityHeerlenthe Netherlands
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Limburg Brain Injury CentreMaastricht UniversityMaastrichtthe Netherlands
| | - James W. Griffith
- Feinberg School of MedicineDepartment of Medical Social SciencesNorthwestern UniversityChicagoIllinoisUSA
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Dementia literacy and worry among older Chinese Americans in Arizona: a comparison between 2013 and 2017. Int Psychogeriatr 2023; 35:43-53. [PMID: 34725017 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610221001289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examined the change in dementia literacy and dementia worry over a 5-year span among older Chinese Americans living in Arizona. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, AND MEASUREMENT This study used survey data collected among a purposive sample of 703 community-dwelling Chinese Americans aged 55 years or older living in the metropolitan areas of Phoenix, Arizona, from 2013 to 2017. The average age of participants was 73.1 (SD = 8.7) and 64.2% were female. Dementia literacy was measured by dementia knowledge (knowledge about Alzheimer's disease and related dementia) and dementia beliefs (biased attitude toward dementia). Dementia worry was measured by assessing participants' fear toward and concerns of developing dementia. RESULTS Regression analyses found dementia knowledge decreased (p < 0.05) and dementia beliefs remained unchanged (p > 0.05) from 2013 to 2017 among participants. Dementia worry only increased among those who lived alone. Significant correlates of dementia worry included low formal education level, depressive symptoms, and family conflict. CONCLUSIONS Public health education targeting older Chinese Americans should aim to enhance dementia knowledge and to rectify their biased attitudes toward dementia. Psychosocial education or counseling should be available to older Chinese Americans who present dementia worry, particularly for those who live alone. More studies using diverse study designs, such as a longitudinal design, are needed to examine change in dementia literacy and worry among this population.
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Sutton E, Catling J, Segaert K, Veldhuijzen van Zanten J. Cognitive Health Worries, Reduced Physical Activity and Fewer Social Interactions Negatively Impact Psychological Wellbeing in Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Psychol 2022; 13:823089. [PMID: 35250763 PMCID: PMC8891508 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.823089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The Coronavirus pandemic has significantly affected psychological wellbeing in older adults, with cases of depression, anxiety and loneliness rising in the general population. Cognitive health has also potentially been affected, as social isolation can lead to cognitive decline. Worrying about cognitive health can be damaging to psychological wellbeing and is especially relevant to explore in the context of the Coronavirus pandemic. The objective of the present study was to explore the associations between cognitive health worries and wellbeing, and to investigate whether physical activity and social contact can mitigate negative effects of the pandemic on psychological wellbeing. Older adults (N = 191) completed an online survey which included measures of cognitive health worries, depression, anxiety, loneliness, social isolation, fatigue, impact of the Coronavirus pandemic, quality of life, subjective vitality, and physical activity. Analyses indicated that cognitive health worries, lower levels of physical activity and smaller amounts of social interaction were associated with poorer psychological and physical wellbeing. Results showed that worrying about cognitive health is associated with poorer wellbeing, and so interventions are needed to encourage positive cognitive functioning in times of social isolation. Promoting physical activity and social interaction is also beneficial, as results show that exercise and social contact are linked with improved wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Sutton
- School of Psychology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Catling
- School of Psychology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Developmental Science, School of Psychology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Katrien Segaert
- School of Psychology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Developmental Science, School of Psychology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jet Veldhuijzen van Zanten
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Liu M, Sun F, Lu C, Xie J. The Influence of Dementia Beliefs and Knowledge on Perceived Dementia Worry: An Empirical Study Among Adults in Rural China. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen 2022; 37:15333175221112143. [PMID: 35836409 PMCID: PMC10581137 DOI: 10.1177/15333175221112143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease and related dementias are more prevalent in rural areas than in urban areas in China. This study aims to examine the role of dementia beliefs and knowledge in influencing dementia worry among rural adults in China. Data were generated in a cross-sectional survey of 577 participants. Hierarchical regression analyses found that both the beliefs and knowledge of dementia contributed to higher levels of dementia worry. The propensity score matching method affirmed the robustness of regression results. In addition, those aged 45-64 reported higher worry about dementia than those aged 65 or older, while being married was related to lower dementia worry. As one of the first kind studies that examined dementia worry in rural Chinese population, our findings suggest that policy and practice efforts should address cultural beliefs of dementia as they contributed to higher worry about dementia in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Liu
- Department of Sociology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Fei Sun
- School of Social Work, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Chuntian Lu
- Department of Sociology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jinchen Xie
- Department of Sociology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
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The onset of falls and its effects on perceived social exclusion and loneliness. Evidence from a nationally representative longitudinal study. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2022; 100:104622. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2022.104622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Joo SH, Jo IS, Kim HJ, Lee CU. Factors Associated With Dementia Knowledge and Dementia Worry in the South Korean Elderly Population. Psychiatry Investig 2021; 18:1198-1204. [PMID: 34965705 PMCID: PMC8721298 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2021.0295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE South Korea is one of the countries with a very fast aging rate, and the prevalence of dementia is rapidly increasing. However, there are relatively few studies pertaining to sociodemographic and physical health-related factors associated with dementia knowledge and dementia worry. METHODS This was a cross-sectional survey of a community in Seocho-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea. Overall, 1,869 adults aged 60 years participated. Participants completed an online interview or face-to-face interview. Survey data comprised self-report questions including dementia knowledge, dementia worry, demographic, psychological, exercise, and cognitive activities. We conducted logistic regression analysis. RESULTS There was a significant positive association between dementia worry and knowledge. Family history of dementia, education, income, sleep problems, depressed mood and loss of volition, chronic diseases, and presence of a past job were associated with dementia knowledge or worry. Reading, art, or social cognitive activities had a significant positive association with dementia knowledge, and writing or musical cognitive activities had a negative association with dementia worry. CONCLUSION We found that people with more dementia knowledge and less dementia worry engaged more in cognitive activities that could prevent dementia. Public education should be planned to improve dementia knowledge and reduce dementia worry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Hyun Joo
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Seocho Center for Dementia, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - In Sook Jo
- Seocho Center for Dementia, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Jin Kim
- Seocho Center for Dementia, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang Uk Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Dewitte L, Lewis NA, Payne BR, Turiano NA, Hill PL. Cross-lagged relationships between sense of purpose in life, memory performance, and subjective memory beliefs in adulthood over a 9-year interval. Aging Ment Health 2021; 25:2018-2027. [PMID: 32954859 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2020.1822284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous studies have found a positive association between having a sense of purpose in life and memory functioning in old age. We extend these findings by examining the relationships between sense of purpose, memory performance, and subjective memory beliefs over time in a large sample of adults in mid to later adulthood. METHOD We used data from 3633 participants of the second and third wave of the MIDUS study. Cross-lagged panel analysis investigated the relationships between the variables at the two points, which were approximately 9 years apart, while controlling for gender, age, education, positive and negative affect, and self-rated health. RESULTS Sense of purpose in life, memory performance, and subjective memory beliefs were all cross-sectionally related to each other at both times. Longitudinally, sense of purpose was a positive predictor of subjective memory beliefs. Memory performance and subjective memory beliefs positively predicted each other over time. Furthermore, all three variables showed correlated changes over time. Exploratory analyses suggest that the covariates of affect and self-rated health are possible mediators or confounders in respectively the relationship between subjective memory beliefs and later sense of purpose, and sense of purpose and later objective memory performance. CONCLUSION Our findings underscore once more the relevance of sense of purpose in life as a predictor of positive late life functioning, as it is related to both performance-based and subjective cognitive outcomes. More work is needed to understand mechanisms underlying the purpose-memory association in order to develop and implement purpose interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Dewitte
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nathan A Lewis
- Department of Psychology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Brennan R Payne
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Nicholas A Turiano
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia Prevention Research Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, VA, USA
| | - Patrick L Hill
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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12
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Hajek A, König HH. Fear of Dementia in the General Population: Findings from the German Socio-Economic Panel (GSOEP). J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 75:1135-1140. [PMID: 32390634 DOI: 10.3233/jad-200106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim was to identify the determinants of fear of dementia in the general population. Data were taken from the innovation sample (n = 1,498; year 2012) of a nationally representative, longitudinal study. Summarizing, 28.8% reported no fear of dementia, 34.3% reported a little fear of dementia, 21.2% reported some fear of dementia, and 15.7% reported severe fear of dementia. Regressions showed that increased fear of dementia was associated with increased age, being female, an increased perceived own risk for developing dementia, an increased agreement that a diagnosis of dementia would ruin one's life, and a decreased perception that memory deterioration is preventable. Addressing modifiable factors may assist in reducing fear of dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Researc, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Researc, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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13
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Caughie C, Bean P, Tiede P, Cobb J, McFarland C, Hall S. Dementia Worry and Neuropsychological Performance in Healthy Older Adults. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2021; 36:29-36. [PMID: 32793959 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acaa057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Dementia is one of the most feared diseases in American society. However, limited research exists regarding how worrying about dementia may influence peoples' cognitive abilities. The current study examines how dementia worry affects performance on neuropsychological domains of executive function, memory, attention, and processing speed in a healthy older adult population. METHOD Participants (n = 40) were screened for depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (PHQ-8, scores > 10 were excluded) and for mild cognitive impairment using the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS, scores < 32 were excluded). All participants were administered common neuropsychological tests of executive function, memory, attention, and processing speed. Participants were also asked to complete the Dementia Worry Scale (DWS), a measure assessing the level of dementia worry individuals experience in daily life. RESULTS A multivariate effect of dementia worry on neuropsychological measures of executive function was supported. Specifically, higher levels of dementia worry were significantly related to poorer performance on combined measures of executive function (Wilk's Lambda = 0.821, F (2, 36) = 3.934, p = .028). CONCLUSIONS Dementia worry significantly affects scores on specific neuropsychological measures. Inasmuch, dementia worry may have both functional implications for older adults, as well as assessment implications for practicing neuropsychologists. Further research is necessary to parse apart whether dementia worry represents a psychological variable affecting cognitive performance and/or serves as an early marker of cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cali Caughie
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Phoebe Bean
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Paul Tiede
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Joshua Cobb
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Craig McFarland
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Stuart Hall
- Department of Psychology, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
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Hendriks GJ, van Zelst WH, van Balkom AJ, Uphoff E, Robertson L, Keijsers GPJ, Oude Voshaar RC. Cognitive behavioural therapy and third wave approaches for anxiety and related disorders in older people. Hippokratia 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007674.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gert-Jan Hendriks
- “Overwaal” Centre of Expertise for Anxiety Disorders, OCD and PTSD; Institute for Integrated Mental Health Care “Pro Persona; Nijmegen Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute; Radboud University; Nijmegen Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry; Radboud University Medical Centre; Nijmegen Netherlands
| | - Willeke H van Zelst
- Department of Psychiatry; University Medical Centre Groningen; Groningen Netherlands
| | - Anton J van Balkom
- Department of Psychiatry and EMGO+ Institute; VU-University Medical Centre and GGZ inGeest; Amsterdam Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Uphoff
- Cochrane Common Mental Disorders; University of York; York UK
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination; University of York; York UK
| | - Lindsay Robertson
- Cochrane Common Mental Disorders; University of York; York UK
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination; University of York; York UK
| | - Ger PJ Keijsers
- Behavioural Science Institute; Radboud University; Nijmegen Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Psychological Sciences; Maastricht University; Maastricht Netherlands
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Werner P, AboJabel H, Maxfield M. Conceptualization, measurement and correlates of dementia worry: A scoping review. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2020; 92:104246. [PMID: 32980573 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2020.104246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The combination of a growing population of older adults and increasing prevalence and awareness of dementia diagnoses suggests that dementia worry may also intensify. As a relatively new area of investigation, the dementia worry literature is growing, but variability in definitions and measurement continue. A scoping review was conducted to gather and examine existing research, as well as assist in guiding future studies in this area. The review focused on characterizing the conceptualization, measurement, and correlates of dementia worry. METHODS Using PubMed, CINAHL, AgeLine, and PsycINFO, a search of literature concerning dementia worry was completed. RESULTS A total of 45 articles examining dementia worry fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Most studies were cross-sectional (n = 39), quantitative (n = 38), and conducted in the United States (n = 22). Inconsistencies in the conceptualization, measurement, and correlates examined make it difficult to determine the meaning and true levels of dementia worry. CONCLUSIONS Recent attention to dementia worry has increased awareness of the basic concept and its correlates. However, the lack of unity in the definition and measurement of dementia worry impedes advancement in this research area, as well as in establishing its clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Perla Werner
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Israel.
| | - Hanan AboJabel
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Israel.
| | - Molly Maxfield
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, USA.
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16
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Hajek A, König HH. Determinants of Perceived Own Risk for Developing Dementia and the Perception That Memory Deterioration Is Preventable. Findings From the General Adult Population in Germany. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:203. [PMID: 32582724 PMCID: PMC7297039 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To identify among the general population the determinants of (1) perceived own risk of developing dementia and (2) the perception that memory deterioration is preventable. Methods: For this study, cross-sectional data were taken from the German Socio-Economic Panel (innovation sample, year 2012), which is a population-based, longitudinal study of German households. There were 1,542 individuals included in our analytical sample. Results: Multiple linear regressions showed that an increased perceived own risk of developing dementia was associated with younger age, higher education, poor self-rated health, an increased number of chronic diseases, and an increased agreement that a diagnosis of dementia would ruin their life. An increased perceived modifiability of memory deterioration was associated with higher education, and not being employed, but not health-related variables. Conclusion: Several determinants of the perceived own risk of developing dementia and the perceived modifiability of memory deterioration have been identified. Addressing modifiable factors may be beneficial for changing these outcome measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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17
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Ihle A, Oris M, Sauter J, Spini D, Rimmele U, Maurer J, Kliegel M. The relation of low cognitive abilities to low well-being in old age is attenuated in individuals with greater cognitive reserve and greater social capital accumulated over the life course. Aging Ment Health 2020; 24:387-394. [PMID: 30588833 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2018.1531370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: The present study sets out to investigate the relation of cognitive abilities to well-being and its interplay with key life course proxies of cognitive reserve and social capital in a large sample of older adults.Method: Three thousand eighty older adults served as sample for the present study. Physical well-being (EuroQoL-5D questionnaire) and psychological well-being (Satisfaction with Life Scale) as well as cognitive performance in terms of verbal abilities (Mill Hill vocabulary scale), processing speed (Trail Making Test part A), and cognitive flexibility (Trail Making Test part B) were assessed. Participants reported information on education, occupation, cognitively stimulating leisure activities, the different languages regularly spoken as well as family and close friends.Results: Moderation analyses showed that the relation of cognitive performance to physical and psychological well-being was significantly attenuated in individuals with a higher cognitive level of the first job after education, a larger number of midlife and current cognitively stimulating leisure activities, a larger number of languages regularly spoken, a larger number of significant family members and friends, and more frequent contact with and more confidence in significant family members.Conclusion: Present data suggest that the relation of low cognitive abilities to low well-being in old age is attenuated in individuals with greater cognitive reserve and greater social capital accumulated over the life course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Ihle
- Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES - Overcoming vulnerability: Life course perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Michel Oris
- Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES - Overcoming vulnerability: Life course perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julia Sauter
- Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES - Overcoming vulnerability: Life course perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dario Spini
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES - Overcoming vulnerability: Life course perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland.,Institute of Social Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Rimmele
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES - Overcoming vulnerability: Life course perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Basic Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jürgen Maurer
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES - Overcoming vulnerability: Life course perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Economics, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Kliegel
- Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES - Overcoming vulnerability: Life course perspectives, Lausanne and Geneva, Switzerland
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18
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Norman AL, Woodard JL, Calamari JE, Gross EZ, Pontarelli N, Socha J, DeJong B, Armstrong K. The fear of Alzheimer's disease: mediating effects of anxiety on subjective memory complaints. Aging Ment Health 2020; 24:308-314. [PMID: 30411628 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2018.1534081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To determine if the fear of developing Alzheimer's disease (FDAD) construct, in combination with similar psychoemotional factors, could help elucidate the nature of older adults' subjective memory complaints (SMCs) and subsequent objective memory performance.Methods: One hundred ninety-three healthy older adults (aged 65-93) were administered clinician and self-report measures of depression, worry, anxiety, illness attitudes, and memory, and each rated their concern with developing AD.Results: Self-reported FDAD was not associated with objective memory performance (p > .05). FDAD, trait anxiety, general anxiety, and general and illness-related worry were independently associated with subjective memory report (ps < .05). The relationship between FDAD and subjective memory report was mediated by measures of general trait and state anxiety, but not general worry or illness-specific worry.Conclusions: FDAD was not associated with objective memory functioning, suggesting AD concerns were not reflective of memory pathology. The mediating effect of anxiety on the relationship between FDAD and subjective memory report suggests that assessment of anxiety, beyond AD fear, may help identify older adults at risk for developing negative perceptions of memory and related distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andria L Norman
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - John L Woodard
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - John E Calamari
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Evan Z Gross
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Noelle Pontarelli
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jami Socha
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Brandon DeJong
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kerri Armstrong
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Chicago, IL, USA
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19
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Power JEM, Sjöberg L, Kee F, Kenny RA, Lawlor B. Comparisons of the discrepancy between loneliness and social isolation across Ireland and Sweden: findings from TILDA and SNAC-K. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2019; 54:1079-1088. [PMID: 30863870 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-019-01679-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Loneliness may have different cultural meanings in different countries. This may manifest as differing levels of Social Asymmetry-the discrepancy between loneliness and social isolation. Since loneliness is thought to be low in Sweden relative to more southerly countries, we hypothesised that more number of individuals would also fall into the "discordant robust" category of Social Asymmetry, i.e. that more individuals in Sweden would have lower loneliness levels relative to social isolation than in Ireland. We also explored the clinical relevance of Social Asymmetry in both countries, by examining its association with cognitive functioning. METHODS We derived Social Asymmetry metrics in two representative cohort studies: the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) and the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care in Kungsholmen (SNAC-K). Data pertaining to a dementia-free sample of 4565 Irish participants and 3042 Swedish participants, all aged over 60 years, were analysed using a multilevel modelling approach, with country as a higher-order variable. RESULTS Contrary to the expected, more individuals in Ireland were "discordant robust" than in Sweden. We also found evidence for superior performance in global cognitive functioning among those in the "discordant robust" category relative to those in the discordant susceptible (i.e. those with higher levels of loneliness than social isolation) category, β = 0.61, p < .001, across both countries. CONCLUSIONS Irish older adults may be more robust to the impact of social isolation on loneliness than those in the Swedish cohort. Social Asymmetry was related to cognitive functioning in both countries, suggesting that Social Asymmetry is a clinically relevant construct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna E McHugh Power
- School of Business, National College of Ireland, IFSC, Mayor Street, Dublin 1, Ireland. .,UK CRC Centre of Excellence for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Grosvenor Road, Belfast, BT12 6BJ, UK.
| | - Linnea Sjöberg
- Aging Research Center, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Frank Kee
- UK CRC Centre of Excellence for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Grosvenor Road, Belfast, BT12 6BJ, UK
| | - Rose Ann Kenny
- School of Medical Gerontology and Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Brian Lawlor
- School of Medical Gerontology and Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
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