1
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Hopf D, Eckstein M, Ditzen B, Aguilar-Raab C. Still With Me? Assessing the Persisting Relationship to a Deceased Loved-One - Validation of the "Continuing Bonds Scale" in a German Population. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2024; 89:623-648. [PMID: 35302429 PMCID: PMC11100273 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221076622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Continuing the bond (CB) to a deceased loved one plays a clinically significant role in grief. We validated the Continuing Bonds Scale (CBS) examining externalized CB (illusions and hallucinations) versus internalized CB (use of the deceased as a secure base) in relation to risk factors of complicated grief and bereavement-related adjustment. Data from 364 bereaved German participants on CBS, Inventory of Complicated Grief (ICG), and Posttraumatic Personal Growth Inventory (PPGI) entered an exploratory factor analysis. This yielded a two-factor-solution representing externalized and internalized CB (KMO = .89, χ2 = 2100.5, df = 120). Both factors demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach's α = .87). ICG and PPGI highly correlated with externalized and internalized CB. Cause of death and feelings of responsibility were associated with externalized CB. In the future, the use of the CBS could help predict problems in grief processing and consequently implement early interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dora Hopf
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Ruprecht-Karls University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Monika Eckstein
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Ruprecht-Karls University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Beate Ditzen
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Ruprecht-Karls University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Corina Aguilar-Raab
- Institute of Medical Psychology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Ruprecht-Karls University, Heidelberg, Germany
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2
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Yan H, Bytautas J, Isenberg SR, Kaplan A, Hashemi N, Kornberg M, Hendrickson T. Grief and bereavement of family and friends around medical assistance in dying: scoping review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023; 13:414-428. [PMID: 36100431 PMCID: PMC10803956 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2022-003715] [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: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The increase in the number of jurisdictions legalising medical assistance in dying (MAiD) has contributed to a growth in the number of family and friends who may face unique elements of grief and bereavement. The aim of this study was to review the literature of grief and bereavement of family and friends following MAiD, and to summarise findings for the development of community resources and programming. METHODS We performed a scoping review with workshop consultation of stakeholders. Six electronic databases and the grey literature were searched for qualitative, quantitative and review articles. Content-analytical techniques and multidisciplinary discussions led to the development of concepts and a conceptual framework. RESULTS Twenty-eight articles met the inclusion criteria. We identified five concepts that impact the grief and bereavement of family/friends: relationships between family/friends and the patient as well as healthcare providers; aspects of MAiD grief which can include secrecy and/or anticipatory grief; preparations which may include family/friends and should be centralised and harmonised; end of life as an opportunity for ceremony; and the aftereffects during which mental health outcomes are studied. CONCLUSION This multidisciplinary scoping review incorporates stakeholder consultation to find that support is needed to address the complicated and changing emotions of family/friends before, during and after a MAiD death. Furthermore, additional societal normalisation of MAiD is necessary to reduce secrecy and stigma and improve the accessibility of resources for family/friends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Yan
- U of T IHPME, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jessica Bytautas
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Ari Kaplan
- MAiDHouse, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Law, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Narges Hashemi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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3
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Harigane M, Nakajima S, Takebayashi Y, Maeda M, Nakano H, Yasumura S, Yabe H, Ohira T, Kamiya K. Posttraumatic stress response following the loss of significant close others in the Great East Japan Earthquake: Fukushima Health Management Survey. J Trauma Stress 2023; 36:129-143. [PMID: 36350740 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22893] [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: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
During the Great East Japan Earthquake, many people experienced the loss of family and friends, among other traumatic events. This study sought to clarify the impact of the loss of significant close others on posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), as well as the factors associated with PTSS, among individuals who experienced the loss of significant close others (i.e., bereaved group). Self-administered questionnaires were mailed to men and women (N = 180,604) aged 16 years and older living in municipalities that included evacuated areas surrounding the Tokyo Electric Power Company's Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station, which was significantly damaged following an earthquake and tsunami in March 2011, causing subsequent radiation leakage; this mailing yielded a 40.7% response rate, with 57,388 valid responses, in 2012. We used the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-Specific (PCL-S) to measure PTSS as the outcome variable. Loss of significant close others in the disaster and respondents' relationship with the deceased constituted the explanatory variables. Basic characteristics and disaster-related factors were the confounding variables. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses. The bereaved group showed more severe PTSS than the nonbereaved group, aOR = 1.58, 95% CI [1.50, 1.67]. The risk of developing PTSS increased if the deceased was a respondent's spouse, aOR = 1.67, 95% CI [1.22, 2.29]; child, 1.51 [1.01, 2.25]; or friend, 1.33 [1.16, 1.53]. Individuals who lose significant close others, including both family and friends, in disasters require close mental health care and, if necessary, should be referred for psychiatric treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayumi Harigane
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan.,Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Satomi Nakajima
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Musashino University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yui Takebayashi
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan.,Department of Disaster Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Masaharu Maeda
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan.,Department of Disaster Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hironori Nakano
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan.,Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Seiji Yasumura
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan.,Department of Public Health, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hirooki Yabe
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Ohira
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan.,Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kenji Kamiya
- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan.,Research Institute for Radiation Biology and Medicine, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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- Radiation Medical Science Center for the Fukushima Health Management Survey, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
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4
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Kwon E, Park S, Lee H. Early-Life Socioeconomic Disadvantage and Health in Late Middle-Age: Importance of Heterogeneous Income Trajectories. Res Aging 2022; 45:458-474. [PMID: 35950236 DOI: 10.1177/01640275221117304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This paper aims to investigate heterogeneous income changes and whether the income trajectories moderate effects of early socioeconomic disadvantage on health in late middle age. The sample was restricted to 9,056 middle-aged adults from the Health and Retirement Study (1998-2010). Through a latent class growth analysis, six patterns of income changes were identified: constantly low, constantly moderate, constantly high & increasing, high to low, moderate to high, and high to moderate. The Constantly low group more frequently displayed depressive symptoms if exposed to early socioeconomic disadvantage and Constantly low income mobility. Individuals who experienced early socioeconomic disadvantage and a downward income mobility in middle age tended to have multiple chronic conditions while there was no moderating effect of income changes for mobility functional limitations. These findings suggest that not all health outcomes are programmed in early life: Disadvantage can be somewhat alleviated through stable and better later-life economic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunsun Kwon
- Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison, NJ, USA
| | - Sojung Park
- 51503Washington University in Saint Louis, St.Louis, MI, USA
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5
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Zhang S, Wang Q, Wang X, Qi K, Zhou Y, Zhou C. Pet ownership and cognitive frailty among Chinese rural older adults who experienced a social loss: Is there a sex difference? Soc Sci Med 2022; 305:115100. [PMID: 35690032 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.115100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The loss of a spouse (widowed or divorced) is one of the most common forms of social loss in older adults. However, evidence is limited regarding whether social loss is associated with cognitive frailty. Maintaining pets has become increasingly popular. Despite its health benefits, little is known about whether pet ownership can buffer cognitive frailty in older adults facing social loss. Here, we examined the role of pet ownership in the relationship between social loss and cognitive frailty among males and females older adults living in rural China. METHODS A total of 2638 rural older adults were analysed. Binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore risk or protective factors associated with cognitive frailty. Participants were categorised into four groups according to social loss and pet ownership assessment: (i) no social loss + own pet, (ii) no social loss + no pet, (iii) social loss + own pet, and (iv) social loss + no pet. Binary logistic regression was also performed to examine the interaction effects of social loss and pet ownership on cognitive frailty stratified by sex. RESULTS Regardless of pet ownership, spousal loss was associated with cognitive frailty for men and women. Female participants who experienced loss without a pet had a significantly higher risk of cognitive frailty. However, we did not observe a significant association between pet ownership and cognitive frailty among men who experienced loss. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the buffering effect of pet ownership on cognitive frailty in older women experiencing social loss. This implies that targeted support for older adults of different sexes who experienced social losses may be effective in preventing cognitive frailty in rural China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimin Zhang
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China; NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Qiong Wang
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China; NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Xiyuan Wang
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China; NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Kaili Qi
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China; NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Yanxin Zhou
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China; NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Chengchao Zhou
- Centre for Health Management and Policy Research, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China; NHC Key Lab of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
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6
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Peña-Longobardo LM, Rodríguez-Sánchez B, Oliva-Moreno J. The impact of widowhood on wellbeing, health, and care use: A longitudinal analysis across Europe. ECONOMICS AND HUMAN BIOLOGY 2021; 43:101049. [PMID: 34371339 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2021.101049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate whether becoming widowed had a significant effect on individual's health status as well as on healthcare and non-healthcare resources use, compared to people who remained in a couple in Europe. DATA AND METHOD It was used the Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe from 2004 to 2015. The statistical technique used was genetic matching which analysed the differences in wellbeing, mental health, health status, risk of death, health care resources and long-term care utilization of people who have become widowed, comparing with people who remained married or with a partner. We considered shortterm and medium-term effects. RESULTS In the short term, those who became widowed had a worse wellbeing and mental health, in addition to a greater probability of receiving formal care and informal care from outside the household. There seems to be a significant effect in the use of formal and informal care from outside the household in the medium term. CONCLUSIONS The results might help to concentrate a major effort of any policy or strategy, not only in the field of health but also in the provision of long-term care, immediately after the negative shock occurs.
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7
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Upenieks L, Ford-Robertson J. Give Thanks in All Circumstances? Gratitude Toward God and Health in Later Life after Major Life Stressors. Res Aging 2021; 44:392-404. [PMID: 34365849 DOI: 10.1177/01640275211033914] [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] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Gratitude is foundational to well-being throughout the life course, and an emerging body of work suggests that older adults may be more inclined to attribute gratitude to a non-human target (God). Drawing on life course theory and Erikson's lifespan development framework, we use data from a national sample of Christian older adults from the United States (N = 1,005) to examine whether gratitude toward God buffers the noxious health effects of the death of a loved one or personal illness. Results suggest that gratitude toward God tends to predict better age-comparative and global self-rated physical health in the aftermath of stress, a moderation effect which is partially mediated by stronger beliefs in God-mediated control (that God is a collaborative partner in dealing with problems). We conclude by proposing some interventions for clinicians and counselors centered around gratitude and religiosity that may assist older adults in coping with major life stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Upenieks
- Department of Sociology, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
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8
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Schladitz K, Löbner M, Stein J, Weyerer S, Werle J, Wagner M, Heser K, Scherer M, Stark A, Kaduszkiewicz H, Wiese B, Oey A, König HH, Hajek A, Riedel-Heller SG. Grief and loss in old age: Exploration of the association between grief and depression. J Affect Disord 2021; 283:285-292. [PMID: 33578340 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The proportion of older adults is increasing due to demographic changes. Depression belongs to the most common mental disorders in late life. The loss of an emotionally significant person is a risk factor for the development of depression. The aim of this study is to analyze the association between depression and grief burden resulting from loss. Based on prior evidence, we examined loneliness as a possible mediator and social support as possible moderator of this association. METHODS The cross-sectional analyses are based on a sample (N = 863) of study participants aged 75+ (M = 81.4 years, SD = 4.4, 62.2% female) with loss experience deriving from the multicenter prospective German cohort study AgeMooDe. Regression analyses (moderated mediation) were performed. RESULTS With increasing age (β = 0.10, p = .005) and grief burden (β = 0.33, p <. 001) depression severity increased. There was an indirect mediating effect of loneliness on the correlation of grief burden and depression (b = 0.04, CI [0.03, 0.05]), but no moderating effect of social support on the correlation of grief burden and loneliness. People living alone had a significantly higher risk of depression, increased loneliness and lack of social support. LIMITATIONS Assessments were based on self-reporting and recorded dimensionally. The cross-sectional design limits conclusions about directions and causality of associations. Sampling bias cannot be completely excluded. CONCLUSION The study provides empirical evidence and a better understanding of the association between grief and depression among the very old and the mediating role of loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Schladitz
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 55, Leipzig 04103, Germany.
| | - M Löbner
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 55, Leipzig 04103, Germany
| | - J Stein
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 55, Leipzig 04103, Germany
| | - S Weyerer
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - J Werle
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - M Wagner
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases and Geriatric Psychiatry, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases within the Helmholtz Association, DZNE, Bonn, Germany
| | - K Heser
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases and Geriatric Psychiatry, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - M Scherer
- Department of Primary Medical Care, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - A Stark
- Department of Primary Medical Care, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - H Kaduszkiewicz
- Institute of General Practice, Medical Faculty, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - B Wiese
- Institute for General Practice, Working Group Medical Statistics and IT-Infrastructure, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - A Oey
- Institute for General Practice, Working Group Medical Statistics and IT-Infrastructure, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - H-H König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - A Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - S G Riedel-Heller
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Str. 55, Leipzig 04103, Germany
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9
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Liu J, Mao W, Guo M, Xu L, Chi I, Dong X. Loss of friends and psychological well-being of older Chinese immigrants. Aging Ment Health 2021; 25:323-331. [PMID: 31777275 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2019.1693967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Focusing on a less studied aspect of friendship and an overlooked type of loss, this study examined associations between loss of friends and psychological well-being among older Chinese immigrants and whether such associations are moderated by age, gender, marital status, and social connection. RESEARCH METHODS This study used baseline data from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago. Linear and logistic regressions tested whether the loss of friends was associated depressive symptoms, loneliness, and quality of life . Interaction terms were created to test the moderating effects . RESULTS Losing friends was associated with a greater sense of loneliness but also a higher chance of reporting good quality of life. The association between the loss of friends and loneliness was stronger among married and young-old (59-69) participants . The association between the loss of friends and quality of life was stronger among young-old and old-old (70-79) participants and the participants with the high level of social connection. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Findings shed light on the importance of the loss of friends in shaping psychological well-being among older immigrants. More research is needed to understand the needs of older friend survivors and develop relevant interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Liu
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Weiyu Mao
- School of Social Work, University of Nevada at Reno, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Man Guo
- School of Social Work, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Ling Xu
- School of Social Work, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, USA
| | - Iris Chi
- School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xinqi Dong
- Rutgers University, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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10
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Unmet care needs in the oldest old with social loss experiences: results of a representative survey. BMC Geriatr 2020; 20:416. [PMID: 33081693 PMCID: PMC7576733 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-020-01822-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Loss experiences such as the loss of a spouse, a close relative or significant others become more likely in old age and may be strongly related to specific unmet health care needs. These unmet needs may often remain undetected and undertreated followed by a negative impact on well-being and social role functioning. The present study aims at exploring the relationship between loss experiences and specific unmet care needs in old age. Methods As part of the study „Need assessment in the oldest old: application, psychometric examination and establishment of the German version of the Camberwell Assessment of Need for the Elderly (CANE)”, the adapted German version of the CANE was used in a population-representative telephone survey in a sample of 988 individuals aged 75+ years. Loss experiences within the last 12 months were assessed within the structured telephone survey. Descriptive and interferential statistical analyses were run in order to examine the association between loss experiences and occurring unmet care needs. Results Overall, 29.7% of the oldest old reported at least one social loss with other relatives losses being the most frequent (12.5%), followed by non-family losses (10.7%). A significant relationship between loss experiences and a higher number of unmet care needs was observed, especially for close family losses. Other risk factors for unmet care needs were age, marital status, depression, social support and morbidity. Conclusions This study provides, for the first time in Germany, data on the association between loss experiences and unmet needs. These findings may substantially contribute to the development of loss-specific interventions, effective treatment and health care planning for the bereaved elderly.
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Abstract
Purpose of review a)The purpose of this systematic review was to characterize the studies published on grief interventions for bereaved older adults in the last 5 years. Grief intervention studies were included that exclusively focused on older adults as well as those that included older adults in their samples, in order to summarize the most up-to-date treatment options available for bereaved older adults. Recent findings b)Twenty-four articles that investigated grief interventions in older adults were identified. Generally, findings suggest viable treatment approaches for bereaved older adults are those incorporating behavioral activation and guidance on restoration-oriented coping. However, similar to studies of broader adult populations, grief interventions had small effects on grief-related symptoms in older adults. Few studies examined age as a moderator of treatment effects. Studies varied greatly by study design, sample size, and outcomes measured, which all likely impacted the efficacy of results. Summary c)This review suggests that, while there has been a growing focus on older adults, who have unique vulnerabilities in bereavement, the evidence-base of efficacious interventions for this population is limited. Given the need for specialized bereavement support for older adults will increase in the coming years, future research should prioritize rigorous investigations of grief treatment options leveraging technology to increase access and incorporate techniques that enhance engagement in life and connectedness for this vulnerable population.
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12
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Yang L, Weng X, Subramanian SV. Associations between older adults' parental bereavement and their health and well-being: Evidence from the China health and retirement longitudinal study. J Affect Disord 2020; 272:207-214. [PMID: 32553360 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.03.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Few studies have investigated the association between losing a child and parental health and wellbeing, especially among older Chinese bereaved parents. This study examined depressive symptoms, life satisfaction, and self-rated health of older Chinese bereaved parents to estimate the health and well-being of this group. METHODS This research used data from the 2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). A total number of 11,507 participants age 45 and older were enrolled in the analysis, including 1,758 bereaved adults who had experienced a child's death and 9,749 non-bereaved counterparts. Multivariate linear and logistic regression models were used to examine the effect of bereavement and its interaction effect by sex and age. RESULTS Multivariate analyses revealed that the death of a child is associated with an increasing likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms (adjusted OR = 1.425, p < 0.001), and a reduced probability of a high level of life satisfaction (adjusted OR = 0.725, p < 0.05), whereas experiencing a child's death is not significantly associated with self-reported health status. The effects of bereavement on health and well-being were found to have a much greater impact among participants who were males (compared to females) and who aged<60 years (compared to those ≥60 years). DISCUSSION Future longitudinal prospective research is expected to examine the causal relationship and explore the attributes of child death and its effects on parental health. Interventions to improve the health and well-being of the older bereaved population are warranted, particularly for those who are male and under 60 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yang
- Department of Social Work, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xue Weng
- School of Nursing, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - S V Subramanian
- Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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13
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Høy B, Hall EOC. "Take good care of yourself" An integrative review of older widows' self-care for health and well-being. J Women Aging 2020; 34:1-30. [PMID: 32339070 DOI: 10.1080/08952841.2020.1753484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Take good care of yourself is a regard often said to older bereaved women. However, what does it mean? Though self-care is a well-known phenomenon within health, it is not well understood in the context of late life spousal bereavement and widowhood. We undertook an integrative review to synthesize knowledge of older women's self-care challenges, resources and activities when bereaved and in a healthy transition to widowhood. Good care refers to health-promoting self-care and can be explained as the older widows' ability to access and mobilize resources and activities that are significant for a healthy transition to widowhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bente Høy
- Research Unit, Randers Regional Hospital, Randers, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth O C Hall
- Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Faculty of Natural and Health Sciences, University of Faroe Islands, Thorshavn, Faroe Islands
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Risk factors for a decrease in high morale in very old people over a 5-year period: data from two Nordic countries. Eur J Ageing 2020; 17:31-41. [PMID: 32158370 PMCID: PMC7040116 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-019-00521-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
High morale could be considered to be an essential part of aging well and increased knowledge of how to prevent a decrease in high morale in very old age could have important implications for policy, and social and health care development. The objective was to identify social and health-related risk factors for a decrease in morale over 5 years in very old people among those with high morale at baseline. The study is based on data derived from the Umeå85+/GERDA study conducted in Northern Sweden and Western Finland. The final sample consisted of 174 individuals who were 85 years and older at baseline and who had completed the follow-up 5 years later. Morale was measured with The Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale (PGCMS). A set of social and health-related variables were used to test which factors were associated with a decrease in morale over 5 years. Linear regression was used for the multivariable analyses. The sample had a mean change of − 1.3 (SD = 2.5) in PGCMS scores from T1 to T2. The results from the regression analyses showed that development of depressive disorders, increased feelings of loneliness and the death of a child during the follow-up period were associated with a decrease in morale. The results from our study indicate that preventing the development of depressive disorders and increasing loneliness are key factors in preventing a decrease in high morale. Additionally, very old people who have recently lost an adult child should receive adequate psychosocial support.
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Batista MPP, Rebelo JE, de Carvalho RT, de Almeida MHM, Lancman S. Widow's perception of their marital relationship and its influence on their restoration-oriented everyday occupations in the first six months after the death of the spouse: A thematic analysis. Aust Occup Ther J 2019; 66:700-710. [PMID: 31657033 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1630.12609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The death of a spouse greatly affects the survivor's emotions and may change one's everyday occupations, especially during recent bereavement. Considering the centrality of everyday occupations to occupational therapy practice, this research aimed to understand women's restoration-oriented everyday occupations within the first six months after the death of their spouse. METHODS This was a qualitative thematic analysis that applied a realistic method and a theoretical approach at the semantic level. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to understand the everyday occupations of widows after their husbands' deaths, emphasising those that were restoration-oriented, according to the dual process model of coping with bereavement framework. The analysis was conducted according to the phases expected to be conducted during a thematic analysis. RESULTS Fourteen widows with long-term marital relationships participated in this research. Their perceptions concerning their relationships with their spouses were an important aspect that influenced their everyday occupations. Women who qualitatively described their marital relationships in terms of attributes grouped by the researcher as lost and lonely also mentioned difficulty managing previously habitual occupations and changes in the meanings assigned to some of those occupations. These women mobilised unique strategies to address suffering and occupational changes during bereavement. Women who qualitatively described their relationships with attributes grouped by the researcher as free at last felt freedom after their husbands' deaths, which, according to the widows, brought happiness and feelings of peace and enabled them to engage in freely chosen occupations and to broaden their social networks. CONCLUSION Everyday occupations and their meanings can considerably change during widowhood. This study contributes to comprehending the uniqueness of responses to loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Picazzio Perez Batista
- Department of Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Medical School, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Maria Helena Morgani de Almeida
- Department of Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Medical School, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Selma Lancman
- Department of Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy and Occupational Therapy, Medical School, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Ennis J, Majid U. "Death from a broken heart": A systematic review of the relationship between spousal bereavement and physical and physiological health outcomes. DEATH STUDIES 2019; 45:538-551. [PMID: 31535594 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2019.1661884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The loss of a loved one is often associated with "death from a broken heart" for the survivor, and there is evidence that shows that widowers and widows are at risk for higher morbidity and mortality than the general population. This systematic review will summarize the physical and physiological health outcomes of spousal bereavement. A systematic database search was conducted, and 38 studies were analyzed. The majority of studies found a statistically significant and positive association between spousal bereavement and adverse physical and physiological health outcomes such as inflammation, cardiovascular risk, chronic pain, and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Ennis
- Ennis Centre for Pain Management, Hamilton, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Umair Majid
- Ennis Centre for Pain Management, Hamilton, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Division of Clinical Decision-Making and Healthcare, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
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Liu WM, Forbat L, Anderson K. Death of a close friend: Short and long-term impacts on physical, psychological and social well-being. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0214838. [PMID: 30947290 PMCID: PMC6448887 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0214838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper reports the impact of a major life event-death-on the physical, psychological and social well-being of the deceased's close friends. We utilised data from a large longitudinal survey covering a period of 14 years (2002-2015) consisting a cohort of 26,515 individuals in Australia, of whom 9,586 had experienced the death of at least one close friend. This longitudinal cohort dataset comprises responses to the SF-36 (health related quality of life measure) and allowed for analysis of the short and longer-term impacts of bereavement. In order to manage the heterogeneity of the socio-demographics of respondents who did/not experience a death event, we use a new and robust approach known as the Entropy Balancing method to construct a set of weights applied to the bereaved group and the control group (the group that did not experience death). This approach enables us to match the two groups so that the distribution of socio-demographic variables between the two groups are balanced. These variables included gender, age, marital status, ethnicity, personality traits, religion, relative socio-economic disadvantage, economic resources, and education and occupation and where they resided. The data show, for the first time, a range of negative and enduring consequences experienced by people following the death of a close friend. Significant adverse physical and psychological well-being, poorer mental health and social functioning occur up to four years following bereavement. Bereaved females experienced a sharper fall in vitality, suffered greater deterioration in mental health, impaired emotional and social functioning than the male counterparts up to four years after the death. The data show that the level of social connectedness plays an important role in bereavement outcomes. Specifically, we found that less socially active respondents experienced a longer deterioration in physical and psychological health. Finally, we found evidence that the death of a close friend lowered the respondent's satisfaction with their health. Since death of friends is a universal phenomenon, we conclude the paper by reflecting on the need to recognise the death of a close friend as a substantial experience, and to offer support and services to address this disenfranchised grief. Recognising bereaved friends as a group experiencing adverse outcomes can be used internationally to prompt health and psychological services to assist this specific group, noting that there may be substantial longevity to the negative sequelae of the death of a friend. Facilitating bereaved people's support networks may be a fruitful approach to minimising these negative outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai-Man Liu
- School of Finance, Actuarial Studies and Statistics, Australian National University, Acton, ACT, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Liz Forbat
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Katrina Anderson
- ANU Medical School, Academic Unit of General Practice, The Canberra Hospital, Garran, ACT, Australia
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18
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Förster F, Stein J, Löbner M, Pabst A, Angermeyer MC, König HH, Riedel-Heller SG. Loss experiences in old age and their impact on the social network and depression- results of the Leipzig Longitudinal Study of the Aged (LEILA 75+). J Affect Disord 2018; 241:94-102. [PMID: 30107351 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.07.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Revised: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loss experiences and bereavement are common among the oldest old. This study aims to investigate the effects of loss experiences and the social network type on depression in old age. METHODS As part of the Leipzig Longitudinal Study of the Aged (LEILA 75+), a representative population-based cohort study, 783 persons aged 75+ years were assessed via standardized interviews including the Practitioner Assessment of Network Type Instrument (PANT) and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D). Effects of loss experiences and network type on depression were analysed cross-sectionally (baseline survey) using logistic regressions. Effects over time were analysed longitudinally (follow-up1 and follow-up2) using hybrid techniques. RESULTS More than half of the elderly (57%) continuously lived in a restricted network. Only 12.1% lived in an integrated network. Although 30.9% had a change in their network, no significant association with loss experiences was found. Nevertheless, loss experiences (OR 7.56 (1.60-35.72)) and a restricted social network (OR 4.08 (1.52-10.95)) appeared to be the significant predictors of depression. LIMITATIONS Our study captures only a selected time window of the individual life and loss experience was only assessed at the time of the baseline survey. CONCLUSION Our findings revealed that elderly individuals, who experienced social loss or lived in restricted social networks, were more likely to develop depression compared to individuals who lived in integrated social networks or without loss experiences. The social integration of elderly individuals is an urgent issue that should be addressed in order to reduce depression in old age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Förster
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), University of Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Janine Stein
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), University of Leipzig, Germany
| | - Margrit Löbner
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), University of Leipzig, Germany
| | - Alexander Pabst
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), University of Leipzig, Germany
| | - Matthias C Angermeyer
- Center for Public Mental Health, Gösing am Wagram, Austria; Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Italy
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Steffi G Riedel-Heller
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), University of Leipzig, Germany
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Schneider JA, Lancki N, Schumm P. At the intersection of criminal justice involvement and sexual orientation: Dynamic networks and health among a population-based sample of young Black men who have sex with men. SOCIAL NETWORKS 2017; 51:73-87. [PMID: 29062165 PMCID: PMC5650246 DOI: 10.1016/j.socnet.2017.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Mass incarceration of young Black men has a significant impact on their network composition and stability that, in turn, may have major implications for health and well-being. A sub-group of young Black men with criminal justice involvement (CJI) identify as gay, bisexual or are non-identified men who have sex with men (hereafter MSM). This paper focuses on the potential effects of CJI on the composition of Black MSM social and sexual networks, their stability over time, and concomitant health and social outcomes. We use data from the UConnect study, a population-based cohort of young Black MSM 16-29 years of age (n=618) selected using respondent-driven sampling in Chicago from 2013-2016. Both confidant and sexual network name generators and interpreters were administered at 9-month intervals over three waves of data collection. Ego and dyadic-level data were collected on behaviors prevalent among MSM and including factors associated with network CJI, network stability, and health outcomes. Generalized Structural Equation Models (GSEM) were utilized to determine the relationship between CJI network composition, network stability and behaviors prevalent among young Black MSM and their networks. In the UConnect cohort, 46% had at least once been detained, arrested or spent time in jail or prison. In addition, 20% of participants reported incident CJI over the study period. Respondents with a history of CJI were significantly more likely to have CJI homophily in their confidant and sexual networks. Multivariate analyses demonstrate that the association between one's history of CJI, housing instability and drug use is partially explained by one's network CJI. In addition, a higher prevalence of network CJI is associated with increased turnover in the confidant network, and this network instability is also related to important health and social outcomes. This analysis describes the networks of criminal justice involved men among a representative sample of young Black MSM and demonstrates the relationship between CJI network homophily, network stability and their impact on several key health and social outcomes relevant to this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Schneider
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago
| | - N Lancki
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago
- Chicago Center for HIV Elimination, University of Chicago
| | - P Schumm
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago
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Bratt AS, Stenström U, Rennemark M. Effects on life satisfaction of older adults after child and spouse bereavement. Aging Ment Health 2017; 21:602-608. [PMID: 26768164 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2015.1135874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have compared the impact of different familial losses on life satisfaction (LS). Furthermore, there is a lack of research on the effect of having lost both a child and a spouse among older adults. SAMPLE A random sample of 1402 individuals, 817 women and 585 men, aged 60-96 years from the Blekinge part of the Swedish National Study of Aging and Care (SNAC-B) participated in this cross-sectional study. AIMS The first aim was to compare the effects of child or spouse or both child and spouse bereavement on LS and, the second aim, to investigate if there were gender differences within the bereaved groups. RESULTS The results showed that having lost a child, spouse or both child and spouse had a negative association with LS, although this effect was small. Having experienced multiple losses did not predict more variance than a single child or spouse loss. Gender differences were found within all the bereaved groups with bereaved men having lower LS than bereaved women. Longer time since the loss was associated with higher LS. CONCLUSIONS Bereaved older adults have somewhat lower LS than non-bereaved and bereaved men seem more affected than bereaved women. Future research needs to address older men´s experiences after the loss of a loved one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sofia Bratt
- a Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Psychology , Linneaus University , Växjö , Sweden
| | - Ulf Stenström
- a Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Psychology , Linneaus University , Växjö , Sweden
| | - Mikael Rennemark
- a Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Psychology , Linneaus University , Växjö , Sweden.,b School of Health Science , Blekinge Institute of Technology , Karlskrona , Sweden
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21
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Network dynamics of HIV risk and prevention in a population-based cohort of young Black men who have sex with men. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1017/nws.2016.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AbstractCritical to the development of improved HIV elimination efforts is a greater understanding of how social networks and their dynamics are related to HIV risk and prevention. In this paper, we examine network stability of confidant and sexual networks among young black men who have sex with men (YBMSM). We use data from uConnect (2013–2016), a population-based, longitudinal cohort study. We use an innovative approach to measure both sexual and confidant network stability at three time points, and examine the relationship between each type of stability and HIV risk and prevention behaviors. This approach is consistent with a co-evolutionary perspective in which behavior is not only affected by static properties of an individual's network, but may also be associated with changes in the topology of his or her egocentric network. Our results indicate that although confidant and sexual network stability are moderately correlated, their dynamics are distinct with different predictors and differing associations with behavior. Both types of stability are associated with lower rates of risk behaviors, and both are reduced among those who have spent time in jail. Public health awareness and engagement with both types of networks may provide new opportunities for HIV prevention interventions.
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Bratt AS, Stenström U, Rennemark M. The role of neuroticism and conscientiousness on mortality risk in older adults after child and spouse bereavement. Aging Ment Health 2017; 20:559-66. [PMID: 25856539 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2015.1031638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Bereavement effects on mortality risk were investigated in 1150 randomly selected participants, aged 60-104, in the Swedish National Study of Aging and Care. METHOD Cox proportional hazards models, controlling for age, gender, functional ability, the personality traits neuroticism and conscientiousness as well as time since the latest loss were used to predict mortality risk. RESULTS Having lost a child, spouse or both child and spouse did not predict mortality risk. An indirect link between bereavement and mortality was found showing for each year since loss the mortality risk decreased by about 1%. Neuroticism, but not conscientiousness, was associated with mortality risk, with a small-effect size. CONCLUSIONS The different bereavements did not predict mortality risk while an indirect link was found showing that mortality risk decreased with time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sofia Bratt
- a Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Psychology , Linneaus University , Växjö , Sweden
| | - Ulf Stenström
- b Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Psychology , Linnaeus University , Växjö , Sweden
| | - Mikael Rennemark
- b Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Psychology , Linnaeus University , Växjö , Sweden
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23
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Van Humbeeck L, Dillen L, Piers R, Grypdonck M, Van Den Noortgate N. The suffering in silence of older parents whose child died of cancer: A qualitative study. DEATH STUDIES 2016; 40:607-617. [PMID: 27333540 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2016.1198942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
As life expectancy grows, the death of an adult child becomes a highly prevalent problem for older adults. The present study is based on nine interviews and explores the experience of parents (≥70 years) outliving an adult child. The bereaved parents described some silencing processes constraining their expression of grief. When an adult dies, the social support system nearly automatically directs its care towards the bereaved nuclear family. Parental grief at old age is therefore often not recognized and/or acknowledged. Health care providers should be sensitive to the silent grief of older parents both in geriatric and oncology care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Let Dillen
- b Oncology Centre and Department of Geriatric Medicine , Ghent University Hospital , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Ruth Piers
- a Department of Geriatric Medicine , Ghent University Hospital , Ghent , Belgium
| | - Mieke Grypdonck
- c Department of Public Health , University Centre for Nursing and Midwifery, Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium
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Naef R, Ward R, Mahrer-Imhof R, Grande G. A world shared - a world apart: the experience of families after the death of a significant other late in life. J Adv Nurs 2016; 73:149-161. [DOI: 10.1111/jan.13107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rahel Naef
- Centre for Clinical Nursing Science; University Hospital Zurich; Switzerland
| | - Richard Ward
- School of Applied Social Science; University of Stirling; UK
| | - Romy Mahrer-Imhof
- Institute of Nursing; Zurich University of Applied Sciences; Winterthur Switzerland
| | - Gunn Grande
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work; University of Manchester; UK
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ADAY RONALD, WAHIDIN AZRINI. Older Prisoners’ Experiences of Death, Dying and Grief Behind Bars. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/hojo.12172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- RONALD ADAY
- Professor of Sociology; Middle Tennessee State University; USA
| | - AZRINI WAHIDIN
- Professor in Criminology and Criminal Justice; Nottingham Trent University
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Aday RH, Krabill JJ, Deaton-Owens D. Religion in the lives of older women serving life in prison. J Women Aging 2015; 26:238-56. [PMID: 24919104 DOI: 10.1080/08952841.2014.888880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This exploratory qualitative study examined the roles of religiousness in the lives of 21 older women (mean age = 63) serving life sentences in one southern state. Based on survey and focus group methodology, several themes emerged as important focal points, including early religious experiences prior to incarceration, imprisonment and religious doubt, participation in formal and informal religious activities, and use of religion in coping with stressors such as interpersonal relationships, trauma, and health statuses. Irrespective of their religious upbringing, all participants agreed that religiosity/spirituality played a key role in their ability to cope with their prison experience as well as for maintaining hope and the opportunity for release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald H Aday
- a Department of Sociology , Middle Tennessee State University , Murfreesboro , TN
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Perrig-Chiello P, Spahni S, Höpflinger F, Carr D. Cohort and Gender Differences in Psychosocial Adjustment to Later-Life Widowhood. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2015; 71:765-74. [DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbv004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Oliveira AJ, Rostila M, Saarela J, Lopes CS. The influence of bereavement on body mass index: results from a national Swedish survey. PLoS One 2014; 9:e95201. [PMID: 24759975 PMCID: PMC3997390 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0095201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous findings suggest that the loss of a family member is associated with health and mortality. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between bereavement experiences and BMI, and whether there are socio-demographic differences in this association. Objective To investigate the association between bereavement experiences and BMI, and whether there are socio-demographic differences in this association. Methods We used cross-sectional data with retrospective questions from the Swedish Level of Living Survey (LNU) of 2000, including 5,142 individuals. The bereavement experiences examined in the study include the loss of a sibling, a parent or a spouse, and time since the death of a parent. BMI (kg/m2) was calculated using self-reported measurements of weight and height. The association between bereavement and BMI was evaluated through linear regressions. Results After controlling for possible confounders, most of the models detected an association between bereavement and BMI. The fully-adjusted model showed that loss of parents was associated with a 0.45 increase in BMI (SE = 0.20). The effect also seemed to be dependent on time since the loss and social class position. Conclusions The present study is the first to examine associations between different types of familial losses and BMI. We find an association between the death of a family member and BMI, but it appears to be related to time since the death, type of bereavement experience and social class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldair J. Oliveira
- Laboratory of Social Dimensions Applied to Physical Activity and Sport (LABSAFE), Department of Physical Education and Sports, Rural Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| | - Mikael Rostila
- Centre for Health Equity Studies (CHESS), Stockholm University/Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Saarela
- University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland and Åbo Akademi University, Vasa, Finland
| | - Claudia S. Lopes
- Department of Epidemiology, Institute of Social Medicine, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Characteristics of the bereavement experience of older persons after spousal loss: An integrative review. Int J Nurs Stud 2013; 50:1108-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2012.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2012] [Revised: 11/23/2012] [Accepted: 11/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Gilrane-McGarry U, O'Grady T. Forgotten grievers: an exploration of the grief experiences of bereaved grandparents (part 2). Int J Palliat Nurs 2012; 18:179-87. [DOI: 10.12968/ijpn.2012.18.4.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Gilrane-McGarry
- Department of Nursing and Health Studies, St Angela's College, Lough Gill, Sligo, Ireland
| | - Tom O'Grady
- Department of Nursing and Health Studies, St Angela's College, Lough Gill, Sligo, Ireland
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