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Weldrick R, Canham SL. Intersections of Ageism and Homelessness Among Older Adults: Implications for Policy, Practice, and Research. Gerontologist 2024; 64:gnad088. [PMID: 37392069 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnad088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Ageism remains a key issue in gerontological literature and has long been recognized as a deeply harmful form of discrimination. Despite advances in ageism scholarship related to education, advocacy, and prevention, there are calls for ongoing intersectional examinations of ageism among minority groups and across older people facing multiple exclusions. In particular, very little ageism research has considered the experiences of age-based discrimination and prejudice among older people experiencing homelessness. We problematize this gap in knowledge and provide recommendations for policy, practice, and research to address ageist discrimination toward older people experiencing homelessness. Intersections of ageism and homelessness are summarized at four levels: intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional/community, and societal/structural. Building upon the limited research, we recommend key strategies for supporting and protecting older people experiencing homelessness through the reduction of ageism at each level. We present these insights and recommendations as a call to action for those working in both the aging and housing/homelessness spheres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Weldrick
- School of Urban and Regional Planning, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Gerontology, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah L Canham
- College of Social Work, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- College of Architecture and Planning, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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2
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Seeman N. Intergenerational Civics Programs to Combat Structural Ageism in Canada. Healthc Q 2023; 26:12-14. [PMID: 38018782 DOI: 10.12927/hcq.2023.27221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Intergenerational civics programs that offer high school graduates a reduction in college or university admissions fees, or rental fees, can stimulate the formulation of a new wave of social impact initiatives. Provided that each program is accredited externally for quality, this approach could attenuate tensions between generations, diminish social isolation among seniors and help young people with housing and higher education affordability, both of which are provincial priorities. It could provide valuable assistance to the elderly in need while also fostering a sense of civic responsibility and community engagement among young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Seeman
- Is a senior fellow and writer based at the Institute of Healthcare Policy, Management and Evaluation and at Massey College at the University of Toronto in Toronto, ON. He is a Fields Institute fellow and senior academic advisor to the Investigative Journalism Bureau at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto. His new book is Accelerated Minds: Unlocking the Fascinating, Inspiring, and Often Destructive Impulses that Drive the Entrepreneurial Brain (Sutherland House Books)
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3
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Mannheim I, Wouters EJM, Köttl H, van Boekel LC, Brankaert R, van Zaalen Y. Ageism in the Discourse and Practice of Designing Digital Technology for Older Persons: A Scoping Review. Gerontologist 2023; 63:1188-1200. [PMID: 36130318 PMCID: PMC10448991 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnac144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Involving older persons in the design process of digital technology (DT) promotes the development of technologies that are appealing, beneficial, and used. However, negative discourse on aging and ageism are potential underlying factors that could influence which and how DTs are designed and how older persons are involved in the design process. This scoping review investigates the explicit and implicit manifestations of ageism in the design process of DT. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Seven databases were screened for studies reporting on the design of DT with older persons between January 2015 and January 2020. Data regarding study and DT characteristics, discourse about older persons, and their involvement in the design process were extracted, coded, and analyzed using critical discourse analysis. RESULTS Sixty articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Various forms of exclusion of older persons from the design process were identified, such as no or low involvement, upper-age limits, and sample biases toward relatively "active," healthy and "tech-savvy" older persons. Critical discourse analysis revealed the use of outdated language, stereotypical categorizations, and/or design decisions based on ageism in 71.7% of the studies. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS A discrepancy was found between an "ideal" discourse regarding the involvement of older persons throughout the design process and actual practice. Manifestations of ageism, errors, and biases of designing DT with older persons are discussed. This article calls for more authentic inclusion of older persons and higher awareness toward the implications of ageism in the design process of DT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ittay Mannheim
- School of Allied Health Professions, Fontys University of Applied Science, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
- Tranzo, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Eveline J M Wouters
- School of Allied Health Professions, Fontys University of Applied Science, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
- Tranzo, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Hanna Köttl
- Louis and Gabi Weisfeld School of Social Work, Faculty of Social Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Department of Health Sciences, IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems, Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Leonieke C van Boekel
- Tranzo, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Rens Brankaert
- School of Allied Health Professions, Fontys University of Applied Science, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
- Expertise Centre Dementia and Technology, University of Technology Eindhoven, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Yvonne van Zaalen
- School of Allied Health Professions, Fontys University of Applied Science, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
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4
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Karimi F, Clauset A. Abolish ageism in early-career research awards. Nature 2023; 620:492. [PMID: 37582878 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-023-02567-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
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Fowler C, Gasiorek J. Effects of Stereotype-Focused Imagined Contact on Young Adults' Intentions for Intergenerational Interaction. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2022; 77:2223-2231. [PMID: 35981959 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbac119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Face-to-face intergenerational contact is associated with more positive attitudes toward older adults. However, such contact can be difficult to achieve, and poor contact experiences can have negative consequences for intergenerational relations. We examined whether mentally simulated intergenerational contact (which is more easily facilitated and controllable) could reduce young adults' inclinations to avoid intergenerational interactions by increasing their inclusion of the older outgroup in the self (IOS), and by enhancing their stereotypes of older adults' warmth and competence. METHOD We conducted an online experiment with 373 young adults from the United States. Participants imagined talking with an older adult (aged 70-75 years) in the circumstances intended to make salient either the older adult's warmth or their competence. RESULTS Both manipulations increased young adult participants' IOS with respect to older adults, which in turn predicted more positive assessments of older adults' warmth and competence. IOS, along with ratings of warmth and competence, inversely predicted the desire to avoid future interaction with older adults. DISCUSSION Findings indicate the viability of a simple and accessible intervention to improve intergenerational relations, which can be tailored to address different goals (e.g., encouraging intergenerational friendships vs. encouraging support for equal rights of older members of the workforce).
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Fowler
- School of Communication, Journalism, and Marketing, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jessica Gasiorek
- Communicology Program, School of Communication and Information, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
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6
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Lagacé M, Donizzetti AR, Van de Beeck L, Bergeron CD, Rodrigues-Rouleau P, St-Amour A. Testing the Shielding Effect of Intergenerational Contact against Ageism in the Workplace: A Canadian Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:ijerph19084866. [PMID: 35457732 PMCID: PMC9032282 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Negative outcomes of ageism in the context of the Canadian labor market are well documented. Older workers remain the target of age-based stereotypes and attitudes on the part of employers. This study aims at assessing (1) the extent to which quality and quantity intergroup contacts between younger and older workers as well as knowledge-sharing practices reduce ageist attitudes, in turn (2) how a decrease in ageist attitudes increase the level of workers’ engagement and intentions to remain in the organization. Data were collected from 603 Canadian workers (aged 18 to 68 years old) from private and public organizations using an online survey measuring concepts under study. Results of a path analysis suggest that intergroup contacts and knowledge-sharing practices are associated with positive attitudes about older workers. More so, positive attitudes about older workers generate higher levels of work engagement, which in turn are associated with stronger intentions to remain with the organization. However, positive attitudes about older workers had no effect on intentions to remain in the workplace. Results are discussed in light of the intergroup contact theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martine Lagacé
- Department of Communication, Faculty of Arts, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada;
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; (L.V.d.B.); (A.S.-A.)
- LIFE Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada;
- Correspondence:
| | - Anna Rosa Donizzetti
- Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Lise Van de Beeck
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; (L.V.d.B.); (A.S.-A.)
| | - Caroline D. Bergeron
- LIFE Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada;
- Center for Population Health and Aging, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | | | - Audrey St-Amour
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; (L.V.d.B.); (A.S.-A.)
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7
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Abstract
Objectives: Commentaries have suggested that initial emphasis on the higher susceptibility and mortality rates of older adults to COVID-19 has instigated ageism within the public discourse and policy decisions. Using the health belief model, the current study examined ageism in interaction with other factors influencing intention to social distance. Methods: Threat of contracting COVID-19, benefits and barriers to social distancing, benevolent and hostile ageism, and intention to social distance were examined in 960 adults (M = 37.81 years, SD = 11.65). Results: Benevolent and hostile ageism were significant moderators for both perceived threat and barriers on intent to social distance; hostile ageism also moderated benefits on intent to social distance. Discussion: The current study demonstrates how ageism influences behavior during a pandemic. With initial reports of COVID-19 presenting older adults as a homogenous group, ageism negatively interacted with intention to social distance and may place older adults at greater risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allyson S Graf
- Department of Psychological Science, 3897Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY, USA
| | - Amy Knepple Carney
- Department of Psychological Science, 3897Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY, USA
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8
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Rueda J. Ageism in the COVID-19 pandemic: age-based discrimination in triage decisions and beyond. Hist Philos Life Sci 2021; 43:91. [PMID: 34258692 PMCID: PMC8276843 DOI: 10.1007/s40656-021-00441-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Ageism has unfortunately become a salient phenomenon during the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, triage decisions based on age have been hotly discussed. In this article, I first defend that, although there are ethical reasons (founded on the principles of benefit and fairness) to consider the age of patients in triage dilemmas, using age as a categorical exclusion is an unjustifiable ageist practice. Then, I argue that ageism during the pandemic has been fueled by media narratives and unfair assumptions which have led to an ethically problematic group homogenization of the older population. Finally, I conclude that an intersectional perspective can shed light on further controversies on ageism and triage in the post-pandemic future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Rueda
- Department of Philosophy 1 and FiloLab-UGR Scientific Unit of Excellence, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
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9
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Abstract
BACKGROUND By 2050, the percentage of older adults in the United States will double. By 2060, nonmajority individuals will comprise nearly half of our older adult population. Therefore, nursing students must have learning experiences that prepare them to care for a diverse population of older adults when they enter practice. METHOD Photo-elicitation and a photo essay project was initiated in an Aging and Health in Global Communities course in which 75 students created and presented photo essays of a diverse group of older adults. RESULTS Through spending time with older adults to create a photo essay, students ably portrayed lives rich in meaning and ethnocultural heritage. CONCLUSION The natural intersection of aging and diversity that occurred in the photo essays enlightened students to the rich experience of age and the similarities and unique differences in the lives of the older people portrayed. [J Nurs Educ. 2021;60(1):44-47.].
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10
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Abstract
Performing arts interventions may be one method to lessen age stereotypes among both the young and old. The present study examines how, and if, intergenerational performing arts interventions addressing age increases knowledge on ageism and counters ageist stereotypes. Two programs were assessed, one with a discussion component and the other without. Participants included 72 individuals aged 20-89. T-tests and repeated measures ANOVAs were used. Those under 50 experienced a significant increase in viewing ageism as a problem and those under 50 who participated in the discussion program experienced an increase in the belief that they could change perceptions about ageism between the pre- and posttests. Positive age stereotypes increased and negative age stereotypes decreased, regardless of program type and age. The present study has implications for how intergenerational performing arts interventions addressing age, created in conjunction with community organizations and via performing arts, may empower individuals to increase knowledge, and change their own perceptions about aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley E Ermer
- Department of Family Science and Human Development, Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey, USA
| | - Katie York
- Department of Health & Human Services, Township of Montclair, Montclair, NJ, USA
| | - Katharine Mauro
- Department of Public Health, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, USA
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11
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Abstract
Current education in gerontology focuses on sharing knowledge and promoting intergenerational contact in order to shift students' attitudes about aging and elders. Existing interventions, however, may be less effective in modifying students' emotional reactions and implicit ageism. Contemplative pedagogy includes practices that help students notice cognitive and emotional patterns and that may serve to reduce bias. Suggestions are made for ways to incorporate contemplative pedagogy in the gerontology classroom.
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12
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon K Inouye
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Hebrew SeniorLife, Boston, Massachusetts
- JAMA Network Open , Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ishani Ganguli
- JAMA Network Open , Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth A Jacobs
- JAMA Network Open , Chicago, Illinois
- MaineHealth and Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough
- Departments of Medicine and Population Health, The University of Texas, Austin
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13
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Moulias S, Berrut G, Salles N, Aquino JP, Guérin O, Moulias R. [Statement for the rights of the elderly]. Geriatr Psychol Neuropsychiatr Vieil 2021; 19:9-19. [PMID: 33764305 DOI: 10.1684/pnv.2021.0915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The SFGG (French Society of geriatrics and gerontology) stands up against ageism and fights it in all its forms of expression. The SFGG warns about the persistence of age discrimination and the emergence of new forms of ageism alongside traditional stereotypes. The SFGG has taken a position on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in December 2018. In September 2020, the SFGG is again raising the alarm on the 20th anniversary of the inclusion of the Rights of the Elderly in the European Charter. It is organising a wide communication campaign against ageism, involving all the learned societies of geriatrics and gerontology as well as all the major international institutions that defend the rights of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Moulias
- Présidente de l'Association francophone droit de l'homme et âge ; Service de gériatrie, Hôpital Ambroise-Paré. Université Paris-Saclay, APHP, France
| | - Gilles Berrut
- Past-Président de l'Association francophone droit de l'homme et âge, ancien président de la Société française de gériatrie et gérontologie ; PHU de gérontologie clinique, CHU Nantes, France
| | - Nathalie Salles
- Vice-Présidente de la Société française de gériatrie et gérontologie ; Pôle de gérontologie, CHU Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Olivier Guérin
- Président de la Société Française de Gériatrie et Gérontologie ; Pôle de gérontologie, CHU Nice, France
| | - Robert Moulias
- Commission Âge Droits Liberté (SFGG), Conseil Scientifique Fédération 3977 contre les maltraitances
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14
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de la Fuente-Núñez V, Officer A. The Global Campaign to Combat Ageism calls on us to act together. Nat Aging 2021; 1:146. [PMID: 37118635 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-021-00036-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
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15
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Ayalon L. There is nothing new under the sun: ageism and intergenerational tension in the age of the COVID-19 outbreak. Int Psychogeriatr 2020; 32:1221-1224. [PMID: 32284078 PMCID: PMC7184144 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610220000575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Liat Ayalon
- Louis and Gabi Weisfeld School of Social Work, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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16
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Baiyewu O, Elugbadebo O, Oshodi Y. Burden of COVID-19 on mental health of older adults in a fragile healthcare system: the case of Nigeria: dealing with inequalities and inadequacies. Int Psychogeriatr 2020; 32:1181-1185. [PMID: 32782036 PMCID: PMC7468683 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610220001726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- O. Baiyewu
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - O. Elugbadebo
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Y. Oshodi
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
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Mohanty S, Sharma P, Sharma G. Yoga for infirmity in geriatric population amidst COVID-19 pandemic: Comment on "Age and Ageism in COVID-19: Elderly mental health-care vulnerabilities and needs". Asian J Psychiatr 2020; 53:102199. [PMID: 32590140 PMCID: PMC7293528 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2020.102199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sriloy Mohanty
- Center for Integrative Medicine and Research, 7th Floor, Convergence Block, AIIMS, New Delhi, India.
| | - Payal Sharma
- Center for Integrative Medicine and Research, 7th Floor, Convergence Block, AIIMS, New Delhi, India.
| | - Gautam Sharma
- Center for Integrative Medicine and Research and Professor, Department of Cardiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi-29, India.
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Fraser S, Lagacé M, Bongué B, Ndeye N, Guyot J, Bechard L, Garcia L, Taler V, Adam S, Beaulieu M, Bergeron CD, Boudjemadi V, Desmette D, Donizzetti AR, Éthier S, Garon S, Gillis M, Levasseur M, Lortie-lussier M, Marier P, Robitaille A, Sawchuk K, Lafontaine C, Tougas F. Ageism and COVID-19: what does our society's response say about us? Age Ageing 2020; 49:692-695. [PMID: 32377666 PMCID: PMC7239227 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afaa097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The goal of this commentary is to highlight the ageism that has emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over 20 international researchers in the field of ageing have contributed to this document. This commentary discusses how older people are misrepresented and undervalued in the current public discourse surrounding the pandemic. It points to issues in documenting the deaths of older adults, the lack of preparation for such a crisis in long-term care homes, how some 'protective' policies can be considered patronising and how the initial perception of the public was that the virus was really an older adult problem. This commentary also calls attention to important intergenerational solidarity that has occurred during this crisis to ensure support and social-inclusion of older adults, even at a distance. Our hope is that with this commentary we can contribute to the discourse on older adults during this pandemic and diminish the ageist attitudes that have circulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Fraser
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario KIN6N5, Canada
| | - Martine Lagacé
- Department of Communication, Faculty of Arts, University of Ottawa, Desmarais Building, Ottawa, Ontario KIN6N5, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Lauren Bechard
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Linda Garcia
- Life Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vanessa Taler
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stéphane Adam
- Psychology of Aging Unit, University of Liège, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Donatienne Desmette
- Faculté des sciences économiques, sociales, politiques et de communication, Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | - Anna Rosa Donizzetti
- Social Psychology Department of Humanities, University of Naples "Federico II", Italy
| | - Sophie Éthier
- School of Social Work & Criminology, Laval University, Québec, Canada
| | - Suzanne Garon
- School of Social Work, University of Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Patrik Marier
- Centre de Recherche et d'Expertise en Gérontologie Sociale (CREGÉS), Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux du Centre-Ouest de l'Île de Montréal, Centre Affilié Universitaire, Québec, Canada
| | - Annie Robitaille
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario KIN6N5, Canada
| | | | | | - Francine Tougas
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
Utilizing the PEACE (Positive Education about Aging and Contact Experiences) model as a theoretical foundation, Instapals was a novel ageism reduction intervention with undergraduate students in a non-gerontology course that 1) provided aging education and 2) facilitated positive 1-to-1 intergenerational relationships with older adults (individuals 65+) through daily exchanges on Instagram for 30 days and two in-person meetings. Paired t-tests demonstrate a significant decrease in aging anxiety, psychological concerns about aging, and negative stereotyping of older adults. Results from coded open-ended responses suggest an overall positive experience with Instapals and more positive attitudes toward aging and older adults across a semester. Findings from the first test of Instapals, a theoretically-driven intervention, shows promise for reducing ageism among larger samples and in other settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Lytle
- Department of Social Sciences, Stevens Institute of Technology , Hoboken, New Jersey, USA
| | - Nancy Nowacek
- Department of Visual Arts and Technology, Stevens Institute of Technology , Hoboken, New Jersey, USA
| | - Sheri R Levy
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University , Stony Brook, New Jersey, USA
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20
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Burnes D, Sheppard C, Henderson CR, Wassel M, Cope R, Barber C, Pillemer K. Interventions to Reduce Ageism Against Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Am J Public Health 2019; 109:e1-e9. [PMID: 31219720 PMCID: PMC6611108 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2019.305123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Background. Research has found a strong link between ageism, in the form of negative stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination toward older people, and risks to their physical and mental health. Little is known, however, about the effectiveness of strategies to reduce ageism. Objectives. To assess the relative effects of 3 intervention types designed to reduce ageism among youths and adults-education, intergenerational contact, and combined education and intergenerational contact-by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis. Search Methods. We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, AgeLine, EBSCO, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Global Index Medicus, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE), Epistemonikos, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Campbell Collaboration, PROSPERO, GreyLit, and OpenGrey. We identified additional records by hand-searching reference lists of relevant review articles as well as records included in the meta-analysis. Two independent reviewers completed the search and screening process. Selection Criteria. Eligible studies were those that (1) evaluated an intervention designed to reduce ageism, (2) examined at least 1 ageism outcome in relation to older adults, (3) used a design with a comparison group (randomized or nonrandomized), and (4) were published after 1970, when the ageism concept was developed. Data Collection and Analysis. Two independent reviewers extracted study-level data from records using a common data collection spreadsheet. They also assessed study quality by using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool, and used the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) tool to assess quality of outcome evidence. Primary outcomes were attitudes toward older people and accuracy of knowledge about aging and older people. Secondary outcomes included comfort with older adults, anxiety about one's own aging, and interest in working in the field of geriatrics or gerontology. We carried out meta-analyses with statistical mixed models. Main Results. We identified 63 eligible studies (1976-2018) with a total sample of 6124 participants. Ageism interventions demonstrated a strongly significant effect on attitudes (differences of standardized mean differences [dD] = 0.33; P < .001), knowledge (dD = 0.42; P < .001), and comfort (dD = 0.50; P < .001), but no significant effect on anxiety (dD = 0.13; P = .33) or working with older adults (dD = -0.09; P = .40). Combined interventions with education and intergenerational contact showed the largest effects on attitudes. We found stronger effects for females and for adolescent and young adult groups. Authors' Conclusions. Interventions are associated with substantial reduction in ageism and should be part of an international strategy to improve perceptions of older people and the aging process. Additional research using more rigorous designs to examine the effects of interventions is strongly recommended. Public Health Implications. Ageism has well-established negative effects on the physical and mental health of older people. Findings suggest that relatively low-cost, feasible strategies involving education and intergenerational contact can serve as the basis of effective interventions to reduce ageism.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Burnes
- David Burnes and Chantal Barber are with the University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Christine Sheppard is a PhD candidate at University of Waterloo, School of Public Health and Health Systems, Waterloo, Ontario. Charles R. Henderson Jr and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Department of Human Development, Ithaca, NY. Monica Wassel, Richenda Cope, and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research, Ithaca
| | - Christine Sheppard
- David Burnes and Chantal Barber are with the University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Christine Sheppard is a PhD candidate at University of Waterloo, School of Public Health and Health Systems, Waterloo, Ontario. Charles R. Henderson Jr and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Department of Human Development, Ithaca, NY. Monica Wassel, Richenda Cope, and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research, Ithaca
| | - Charles R Henderson
- David Burnes and Chantal Barber are with the University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Christine Sheppard is a PhD candidate at University of Waterloo, School of Public Health and Health Systems, Waterloo, Ontario. Charles R. Henderson Jr and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Department of Human Development, Ithaca, NY. Monica Wassel, Richenda Cope, and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research, Ithaca
| | - Monica Wassel
- David Burnes and Chantal Barber are with the University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Christine Sheppard is a PhD candidate at University of Waterloo, School of Public Health and Health Systems, Waterloo, Ontario. Charles R. Henderson Jr and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Department of Human Development, Ithaca, NY. Monica Wassel, Richenda Cope, and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research, Ithaca
| | - Richenda Cope
- David Burnes and Chantal Barber are with the University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Christine Sheppard is a PhD candidate at University of Waterloo, School of Public Health and Health Systems, Waterloo, Ontario. Charles R. Henderson Jr and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Department of Human Development, Ithaca, NY. Monica Wassel, Richenda Cope, and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research, Ithaca
| | - Chantal Barber
- David Burnes and Chantal Barber are with the University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Christine Sheppard is a PhD candidate at University of Waterloo, School of Public Health and Health Systems, Waterloo, Ontario. Charles R. Henderson Jr and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Department of Human Development, Ithaca, NY. Monica Wassel, Richenda Cope, and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research, Ithaca
| | - Karl Pillemer
- David Burnes and Chantal Barber are with the University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Christine Sheppard is a PhD candidate at University of Waterloo, School of Public Health and Health Systems, Waterloo, Ontario. Charles R. Henderson Jr and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Department of Human Development, Ithaca, NY. Monica Wassel, Richenda Cope, and Karl Pillemer are with Cornell University, Bronfenbrenner Center for Translational Research, Ithaca
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Abstract
Should a person who feels his legal age does not correspond with his experienced age be allowed to change his legal age? In this paper, I argue that in some cases people should be allowed to change their legal age. Such cases would be when: (1) the person genuinely feels his age differs significantly from his chronological age and (2) the person's biological age is recognised to be significantly different from his chronological age and (3) age change would likely prevent, stop or reduce ageism, discrimination due to age, he would otherwise face. I also consider some objections against the view that people should be allowed to change their legal age and find them lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joona Räsänen
- Department of Philosophy, Classics, History of Art and Ideas, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Management Studies, Aalto University School of Business, Helsinki, Finland
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Marchiondo LA, Gonzales E, Williams LJ. Trajectories of Perceived Workplace Age Discrimination and Long-Term Associations With Mental, Self-Rated, and Occupational Health. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2019; 74:655-663. [PMID: 28977664 PMCID: PMC6460336 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbx095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study addresses older employees' trajectories of perceived workplace age discrimination, and the long-term associations among perceived age discrimination and older workers' mental and self-rated health, job satisfaction, and likelihood of working past retirement age. We evaluate the strength and vulnerability integration (SAVI) model. METHOD Three waves of data from employed participants were drawn from the Health and Retirement Study (N = 3,957). Latent growth modeling was used to assess relationships between the slopes and the intercepts of the variables, thereby assessing longitudinal and cross-sectional associations. RESULTS Perceived workplace age discrimination tends to increase with age, although notable variance exists. The initial status of perceived age discrimination relates to the baseline statuses of depression, self-rated health, job satisfaction, and likelihood of working past retirement age in the expected directions. Over time, perceived age discrimination predicts lower job satisfaction and self-rated health, as well as elevated depressive symptoms, but not likelihood of working past retirement age. DISCUSSION This study provides empirical support for the SAVI model and uncovers the "wear and tear" effects of perceived workplace age discrimination on older workers' mental and overall health. We deliberate on social policies that may reduce age discrimination, thereby promoting older employees' health and ability to work longer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A Marchiondo
- Anderson School of Management, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque
| | | | - Larry J Williams
- College of Business Administration, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
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Doyle JR, Bottomley PA. The relative age effect in European elite soccer: A practical guide to Poisson regression modelling. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0213988. [PMID: 30943241 PMCID: PMC6447143 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0213988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Many disciplines of scholarship are interested in the Relative Age Effect (RAE), whereby age-banding confers advantages on older members of the cohort over younger ones. Most research does not test this relationship in a manner consistent with theory (which requires a decline in frequency across the cohort year), instead resorting to non-parametric, non-directional approaches. In this article, the authors address this disconnect, provide an overview of the benefits associated with Poisson regression modelling, and two managerially useful measures for quantifying RAE bias, namely the Indices of Discrimination and Wastage. In a tutorial-like exposition, applications and extensions of this approach are illustrated using data on professional soccer players competing in the top two tiers of the "Big Five" European football leagues in the search to identify paragon clubs, leagues, and countries from which others may learn to mitigate this form of age-discrimination in the talent identification process. As with OLS regression, Poisson regression may include more than one independent variable. In this way we test competing explanations of RAE; control for unwanted sources of covariation; model interaction effects (that different clubs and countries may not all be subject to RAE to the same degree); and test for non-monotonic versions of RAE suggested in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R. Doyle
- Business School, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Paul A. Bottomley
- Business School, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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24
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Lovell ED, Marjamaa JR, Shortnacy NG, Cevera KM, Rainville AJ, Baker CJ, Nalivka SI, Mendoza AS, Lamping SD, Davis M, Thompson JR. First- and second-year gerontology students: Research activities heightened connectedness to learning. Gerontol Geriatr Educ 2018; 39:357-373. [PMID: 28129099 DOI: 10.1080/02701960.2017.1285294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to measure 1st- and 2nd-year students' engagement as a result of a qualitative inquiry and field experiences with elders residing in an independent and assisted living retirement community. Undergraduate student research and field experiences are often introduced toward the completion of undergraduate students' academics. The findings suggest discovery and further consideration to implement undergraduate research and field experiences at the beginning of students' academic experiences in gerontology. Outcomes further suggest that early introduction of gerontological research and field experiences may assist in educating students about agism, potentially dissuading personal fears of their aging or apprehensions in working with elders. Optimal student engagement is evidenced through connectedness to learning, understanding of aging concepts through the lens of research, and enhanced learning metaphorically described as a woven gerontological tapestry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elyse D'nn Lovell
- a Highlands College of Montana Tech of the University of Montana , Butte , Montana , USA
| | - Janna R Marjamaa
- a Highlands College of Montana Tech of the University of Montana , Butte , Montana , USA
| | | | - Kara M Cevera
- a Highlands College of Montana Tech of the University of Montana , Butte , Montana , USA
| | - Anna J Rainville
- a Highlands College of Montana Tech of the University of Montana , Butte , Montana , USA
| | - Chelsi J Baker
- a Highlands College of Montana Tech of the University of Montana , Butte , Montana , USA
| | - Suzanne I Nalivka
- a Highlands College of Montana Tech of the University of Montana , Butte , Montana , USA
| | - Alison S Mendoza
- a Highlands College of Montana Tech of the University of Montana , Butte , Montana , USA
| | - Shayna D Lamping
- a Highlands College of Montana Tech of the University of Montana , Butte , Montana , USA
| | - Michelle Davis
- a Highlands College of Montana Tech of the University of Montana , Butte , Montana , USA
| | - Jessica R Thompson
- a Highlands College of Montana Tech of the University of Montana , Butte , Montana , USA
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25
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Yamashita T, Hahn SJ, Kinney JM, Poon LW. Impact of life stories on college students' positive and negative attitudes toward older adults. Gerontol Geriatr Educ 2018; 39:326-340. [PMID: 28350248 DOI: 10.1080/02701960.2017.1311884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Gerontological educators are increasingly interested in reducing college students' negative, and promoting their positive, attitudes toward older adults. Over the course of a semester, students from six 4-year institutions viewed three life story videos (documentaries) of older adults and completed pre- and posttest surveys that assessed their positive (Allophilia Scale) and negative (Fraboni Scale of Ageism) attitudes. The authors assessed changes in attitudinal scales between treatment (with videos, n = 80) and control (no video, n = 40) groups. Change score analysis with 95% bias-corrected bootstrap confidence intervals estimated the effects of the documentaries on students' attitudes. The treatment group showed significant increases in kinship, engagement, and enthusiasm, and decreases in antilocution and avoidance (all ps <.05). There was no significant change in affect, comfort, or discrimination. This study demonstrated how video stories impact students' attitudes about older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Yamashita
- a University of Nevada , Department of Sociology , Las Vegas , Nevada , USA
| | - Sarah J Hahn
- b Department of Sociology and Gerontology & Scripps Gerontology Center , Miami University , Oxford , Ohio , USA
| | - Jennifer M Kinney
- b Department of Sociology and Gerontology & Scripps Gerontology Center , Miami University , Oxford , Ohio , USA
| | - Leonard W Poon
- c Institute of Gerontology, University of Georgia , Athens , Georgia , USA
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26
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Duggleby W, Karimi M, Swindle J. Discourse analysis of Western Canadian print news media: AGING AND HEALTH CARE. Alta RN 2018; 72:26-27. [PMID: 29758138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
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27
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BLAMED. UNDESERVING. HELPLESS. How media view OLDER ADULTS. Alta RN 2017; 72:24-5. [PMID: 29758137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
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28
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Jeste DV, Avanzino J, Depp CA, Gawronska M, Tu X, Sewell DD, Huege SF. Effect of short-term research training programs on medical students' attitudes toward aging. Gerontol Geriatr Educ 2018; 39:214-222. [PMID: 28614041 PMCID: PMC6095204 DOI: 10.1080/02701960.2017.1340884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Strategies to build a larger workforce of physicians dedicated to research on aging are needed. One method to address this shortage of physician scientists in geriatrics is short-term training in aging research for early-stage medical students. The authors examined the effects of two summer research training programs, funded by the National Institutes of Health, on medical students' attitudes toward aging, using the Carolina Opinions on Care of Older Adults (COCOA). The programs combined mentored research, didactics, and some clinical exposure. In a sample of 134 participants, COCOA scores improved significantly after completion of the research training program. There was a significant interaction of gender, such that female students had higher baseline scores than males, but this gender difference in COCOA scores was attenuated following the program. Four of the six COCOA subscales showed significant improvement from baseline: early interest in geriatrics, empathy/compassion, attitudes toward geriatrics careers, and ageism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilip V. Jeste
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego
- Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California, San Diego
| | - Julie Avanzino
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego
- Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California, San Diego
| | - Colin A. Depp
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego
- Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California, San Diego
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego
| | - Maja Gawronska
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego
- Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California, San Diego
| | - Xin Tu
- Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California, San Diego
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, San Diego
| | | | - Steven F. Huege
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego
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Abstract
Intergenerational service-learning is commonly used in aging courses. Although benefits are well documented for college students, fewer studies have examined benefits for older adults. This article discusses the development and implementation of an intergenerational program designed as a brief service-learning experience to reduce age-related stereotypes and increase generativity in older adults. Young adults enrolled in an aging course and older adults from a local assisted-living community met three times to discuss a variety of topics and get to know one another. Results showed a significant reduction in ageism on the Fraboni Scale of Ageism for young adults. Descriptive data suggested an increase in generativity on the Loyola Generativity Scale for older adults. Qualitative data suggested that all participants gained a greater appreciation for one another and recognized how much they had in common. Limitations, challenges, and lessons learned are also discussed. Intergenerational service-learning, even in small doses, shows promise for bridging the generation gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Andreoletti
- a Department of Psychological Science , Central Connecticut State University , New Britain , Connecticut , USA
| | - Jessica L Howard
- a Department of Psychological Science , Central Connecticut State University , New Britain , Connecticut , USA
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30
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Halpin SN, Dillard RL, Idler E, Clevenger C, Rothschild E, Blanton S, Wilson J, Flacker JM. The benefits of being a senior mentor: Cultivating resilience through the mentorship of health professions students. Gerontol Geriatr Educ 2017; 38:283-294. [PMID: 26251869 DOI: 10.1080/02701960.2015.1079707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Senior Mentor Programs (SMPs) pair community-dwelling older adults with health professions students to facilitate knowledge, improve communication skills, and promote positive attitudes regarding the aging process. Although evidence exists that SMPs meet these goals, the programs' psychosocial impact on the senior mentors remains unexplored. The current study assessed 101 mostly female (64.4%) senior mentors (M age = 77.6) pre- and postprogram. Although mentors had no change in the amount of perceived ageism experienced or expectation of experiencing ageism, their concern/anxiety over ageism significantly decreased from pre- (M = 21.58) to posttest (M = 20.19). Qualitative thematic analysis indicated meaningfulness of program and scheduling difficulties as prevalent themes. Mentors who reported less concern about ageism following the program were more likely to have experienced ageism in the year prior to the program and to attend religious services more often, another potential intergenerational contact. These results highlight possible benefits of mentor service for older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean N Halpin
- a Department of Veterans Affairs , Birmingham/Atlanta Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center , Decatur , Georgia , USA
| | - Rebecca L Dillard
- b Division of General Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine , Emory University , Atlanta , Georgia , USA
| | - Ellen Idler
- c Departments of Sociology and Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health , Emory University , Atlanta , Georgia , USA
| | - Carolyn Clevenger
- a Department of Veterans Affairs , Birmingham/Atlanta Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center , Decatur , Georgia , USA
- d Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing , Emory University , Atlanta , Georgia , USA
| | - Elizabeth Rothschild
- e Physician Assistant Program , Emory University School of Medicine , Atlanta , Georgia , USA
| | - Sarah Blanton
- f Division of Physical Therapy, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine , Emory University School of Medicine , Atlanta , Georgia , USA
| | - Jessica Wilson
- b Division of General Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine , Emory University , Atlanta , Georgia , USA
| | - Jonathan M Flacker
- b Division of General Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine , Emory University , Atlanta , Georgia , USA
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32
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Webb S, Chonody J, Ranzijn R, Bryan J, Owen M. A Qualitative Investigation of Gerontological Practice: The Views of Social Work and Psychology Students, Faculty, and Practitioners. Gerontol Geriatr Educ 2016; 37:402-422. [PMID: 25826574 DOI: 10.1080/02701960.2015.1009054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Recently there has been an increase in the population of older adults; however, this increase has not been reflected in the helping professions. The aim of this study was to qualitatively investigate barriers to working with older adults within the human service professions. An online survey was sent to students, academic faculty, and practitioners from the disciplines of social work and psychology throughout Australia, addressing issues related to work with older adults. Thematic analysis was used to extract themes and subthemes from the responses (N = 252). The most important finding was that a barrier to working with older adults appears to be a consequence of a perpetuating cycle among students, academic faculty, and professionals collectively. Faculty members did not feel knowledgeable in the area of gerontology and were therefore not able to educate students in this area appropriately, leading to students to enter the workforce as either faculty members and/or practitioners without expertise to work with older adults. This study highlighted the importance of including more comprehensive gerontological information within social sciences' curriculum, which may promote more realistic images of older adults and help alleviate barriers to working with this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Webb
- a School of Psychology, Social Work and Social Policy , University of South Australia , Adelaide , Australia
| | - Jill Chonody
- b School of Social Work , Indiana University Northwest , Gary , Indiana , USA
| | - Rob Ranzijn
- a School of Psychology, Social Work and Social Policy , University of South Australia , Adelaide , Australia
| | - Janet Bryan
- a School of Psychology, Social Work and Social Policy , University of South Australia , Adelaide , Australia
| | - Mikaela Owen
- a School of Psychology, Social Work and Social Policy , University of South Australia , Adelaide , Australia
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Vitale C, Rosano G, Fini M. Are elderly and women under-represented in cardiovascular clinical trials? Implication for treatment. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2016; 128:433-438. [PMID: 27655475 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-016-1082-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Elderly and women have been often under-represented in randomised clinical trials testing the effect of treatments on cardiovascular diseases even though these diseases highly affect both of them.Compared to their younger counterparts elderly have a higher incidence of disease-related morbidities, take more medicines and account for more adverse drug-related events. Similarly women present several differences in pathophysiology, clinical manifestations and outcomes in comparison to their male counterparts. For these reasons the results of randomised clinical trials obtained in younger men cannot be simply translated in elderly and women and the conduction of research and clinical trials in these patient populations is a key aspect to acquire evidence-based knowledge in the understanding and management of their conditions and treatment.Although the under-representation of elderly and women has been discussed for several years and several international guidelines or recommendation have been published to suggest how to improve the recruitment of these two populations, their recruitment is still insufficient. In particular, frail elderly and those with co-morbidities are not included questioning the external validity and the safety of most treatments.Aim of this review is to critically analyse how current recommendations for treatments of cardiovascular disease are not adequately devised for elderly and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Vitale
- Department of Medical Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, via della Pisana, 235, 00163, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Rosano
- Department of Cardiovascular and Cell Science Research, St. Georges Hospital, London, UK
| | - Massimo Fini
- Department of Medical Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, via della Pisana, 235, 00163, Rome, Italy
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Lüthi U. [Challenges of the new long-life society. "Becoming old is the best and the most foolish"]. Krankenpfl Soins Infirm 2016; 109:8-10. [PMID: 27464423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
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35
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Trueland J. At what age are you too old to treat? Nurs Stand 2015; 30:20-21. [PMID: 26488969 DOI: 10.7748/ns.30.8.20.s22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
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Ruiz JG, Andrade AD, Anam R, Taldone S, Karanam C, Hogue C, Mintzer MJ. Group-based differences in anti-aging bias among medical students. Gerontol Geriatr Educ 2015; 36:58-78. [PMID: 25288486 DOI: 10.1080/02701960.2014.966904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Medical students (MS) may develop ageist attitudes early in their training that may predict their future avoidance of caring for the elderly. This study sought to determine MS' patterns of explicit and implicit anti-aging bias, intent to practice with older people and using the quad model, the role of gender, race, and motivation-based differences. One hundred and three MS completed an online survey that included explicit and implicit measures. Explicit measures revealed a moderately positive perception of older people. Female medical students and those high in internal motivation showed lower anti-aging bias, and both were more likely to intend to practice with older people. Although the implicit measure revealed more negativity toward the elderly than the explicit measures, there were no group differences. However, using the quad model the authors identified gender, race, and motivation-based differences in controlled and automatic processes involved in anti-aging bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge G Ruiz
- a Laboratory of E-learning and Multimedia Research, Bruce W. Carter VA Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC) , Miami , Florida , USA
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Abstract
Objectives: to examine perceived age discrimination in a large representative sample of older adults in England. Methods: this cross-sectional study of over 7,500 individuals used data from the fifth wave of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA), a longitudinal cohort study of men and women aged 52 years and older in England. Wave 5 asked respondents about the frequency of five everyday discriminatory situations. Participants who attributed any experiences of discrimination to their age were treated as cases of perceived age discrimination. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the odds ratios of experiencing perceived age discrimination in relation to selected sociodemographic factors. Results: approximately a third (33.3%) of all respondents experienced age discrimination, rising to 36.8% in those aged 65 and over. Perceived age discrimination was associated with older age, higher education, lower levels of household wealth and being retired or not in employment. The correlates of age discrimination across the five discriminatory situations were similar. Conclusion: understanding age discrimination is vital if we are to develop appropriate policies and to target future interventions effectively. These findings highlight the scale of the challenge of age discrimination for older adults in England and illustrate that those groups are particularly vulnerable to this form of discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isla Rippon
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, University College London, London, UK
- Address correspondence to: Tel: 0207 679 1804; Fax: 0207 916 8542.
| | | | - Cesar de Oliveira
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Panayotes Demakakos
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andrew Steptoe
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, University College London, London, UK
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38
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Abashidze AK, Malichenko VS. [International legal framework of elderly rights protection]. Adv Gerontol 2014; 27:11-17. [PMID: 25051753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Aging of the population is one of the dominant trends in the XXI century. It is expected that by 2050, more than a quarter of the world's population (27%) will be 65 years or older. Increase of older persons' proportion in the population of most countries entails a change in the scale and structure of morbidity requiring higher costs for medical care, social security, including pensions. Ageing appears on the international agenda for more than 30 years. The Human Rights treaty bodies rank the elderly as a vulnerable group, who are more susceptible to various forms of discrimination. However, there is currently no any international legal instrument specifically dedicated to the problems of protection of the elderly at a time when their discrimination and stigmatization is a very common phenomenon.
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Masciadrelli BP. "I learned that the aging population isn't that much different from me": the final outcomes of a Gero-Ed BEL Project. J Gerontol Soc Work 2013; 57:24-36. [PMID: 24377721 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2013.854855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
This article describes a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Gero-Ed Center BEL Project's activities and reports its final outcomes. An oral history interview in paired human behavior and practice skills courses addressed gerontological social work competencies focused on assessing and addressing values and biases regarding aging, and the ability to relate concepts and theories of aging to practice. Significant increases in perceived proficiency in these competencies occurred, as did significant decreases in negative attitudes toward older people and working with older adults. Qualitative data supported these results. Findings suggest social work educators utilize a combination of classroom-based and experiential learning to maximize student development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Paul Masciadrelli
- a Department of Sociology, Anthropology, Social Work, and Criminal Justice , State University of New York at Fredonia , Fredonia , New York , USA
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40
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Kelly JG. Ageism and moral exclusion need further discussion. Aust Nurs Midwifery J 2013; 21:5. [PMID: 24672956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND the European Court of Justice (ECJ) is considered by many to be the most important judicial institution of the European Union today. Despite the potential importance and relevance of the ECJ rulings to the lives and rights of older Europeans, no research has attempted to analyse or to study the ECJ rulings in this field. OBJECTIVE to describe the ECJ case-law in the field of elder rights. METHODS using a computerised search of the ECJ database, between the years 1994 and 2010, 123 cases directly dealing with legal rights of older persons were analysed. RESULTS on average, only 1-2% of the annual ECJ case-load addresses rights of older persons. Unlike the clear trend in the increase of the total ECJ case load, there was no similar trend of increase in the number of cases directly involving older persons' rights. However, in the majority of the elder-rights cases, the ECJ decision was in support of the older person's rights. CONCLUSIONS the ECJ can potentially serve as an important protector of rights of older Europeans, if and to the extent that these cases reach its jurisdiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Israel Doron
- Gerontology, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Haifa 31905, Israel.
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42
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Johnstone MJ. Ageism and moral exclusion of older people. Aust Nurs Midwifery J 2013; 21:27. [PMID: 24279091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
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43
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Abstract
In a report from Age UK on the 'oldest old', aged 85 and over, nurses alongside health and social care experts examine the challenges and opportunities being presented to health services. This article explains why conventional medical approaches are inappropriate for this age group.
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Abstract
This cross-sectional study examined the associations among perceived vulnerability to disease, aging knowledge, and ageism (positive and negative) in a sample of undergraduate students enrolled in a human development course (N = 649; M age = 19.94 years, SD = 2.84 years). Perceived vulnerability to disease and aging knowledge were associated with self-reported ageist behaviors. Undergraduates who viewed themselves as more susceptible to disease and knew less about the aging process tended to report more negative ageist behavior. Sex moderated the association between aging knowledge and ageist behavior, indicating the association was stronger for males. Discussion focuses on implications for gerontology educators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah T Stahl
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA.
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45
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Schär U. [Elderly patients in the acute hospital. Discrimination that is hardly noticeable]. Krankenpfl Soins Infirm 2013; 106:24-25. [PMID: 23534160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Schär
- Bildungszentrum Gesundheit und Soziales Kanton Solothurn.
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46
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Abstract
Unni Karunakara and Frances Stevenson argue that humanitarian policy and practice must adapt to ensure that the needs of older people in humanitarian emergencies are addressed.
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