scholarly journals In the Red: Debt, Financial Well-Being, and Retirement Preparedness Among Older Adults

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 694-694
Author(s):  
Julie Miller ◽  
Julie Miller
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
New York ◽  
Financial Literacy ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Safety Net ◽  
The United States ◽  
Student Loan ◽  
Economic Security ◽  
Retirement Preparedness ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Over the past twenty years, total debt for Americans ages 70 and over has increased more relative to all other ages group- by 543% according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (2019). Higher rates of debt among older adults have been attributed to a range of factors including expanded access to consumer credit, the capability for people to borrow from 401(k) plans, increases in costs of living, and limited financial literacy, among others. Related research of adults nearing retirement age who carry debt points to delayed retirement timing, lower levels of retirement savings, and higher risk and rates of bankruptcy. This symposium introduces timely investigations of retirement planning and economic security among older adults with debt. The first presentation will provide an overview of the impact of financial hardship on health among older adults in the United States over a recent ten-year period. The second presentation will focus on over-indebtedness among pre-retirees. The third presentation will examine the role of safety net services and borrowing from retirement plans among older adults with debt, particularly among older adults of color. The fourth and final presentation will focus on student loan debt as a hurdle to near-term and long-term financial security for older women in particular. A discussant will comment on how, together, the aforementioned papers contribute to our understanding of economic wellbeing and retirement preparedness in this era of increasing longevity. The session will integrate policy and programming implications for gerontological professionals.

scholarly journals The impact of COVID-19 on the well-being and cognition of older adults living in the United States and Latin America

2021 ◽  
Vol 35 ◽  
pp. 100848
Author(s):  
Ganesh M. Babulal ◽  
Valeria L. Torres ◽  
Daisy Acosta ◽  
Cinthya Agüero ◽  
Sara Aguilar-Navarro ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Latin America ◽  
Well Being ◽  
The United States ◽  
The Impact

scholarly journals Food Insecurity in the United States: Identification, Treatment, and Implications

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 772-773
Author(s):  
Rose Ann DiMaria-Ghalili ◽  
Connie Bales ◽  
Julie Locher
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
At Risk ◽  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Well Being ◽  
The United States ◽  
Health Clinic ◽  
High Risk Population ◽  
Geriatric Syndrome ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Food insecurity is an under-recognized geriatric syndrome that has extensive implications in the overall health and well-being of older adults. Understanding the impact of food insecurity in older adults is a first step in identifying at-risk populations and provides a framework for potential interventions in both hospital and community-based settings. This symposium will provide an overview of current prevalence rates of food insecurity using large population-based datasets. We will present a summary indicator that expands measurement to include the functional and social support limitations (e.g., community disability, social isolation, frailty, and being homebound), which disproportionately impact older adults, and in turn their rate and experience of food insecurity and inadequate food access. We will illustrate using an example of at-risk seniors the association between sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and function, with rates of food security in the United States. The translational aspect of the symposium will then focus on identification of psychosocial and environmental risk factors including food insecurity in older veterans preparing for surgery within the Veterans Affairs Perioperative Optimization of Senior Health clinic. Gaining insights into the importance of food insecurity will lay the foundation for an intervention for food insecurity in the deep south. Our discussant will provide an overview of the implications of these results from a public health standpoint. By highlighting the importance of food insecurity, such data can potentially become a framework to allow policy makers to expand nutritional programs as a line of defense against hunger in this high-risk population.

Coping with Loneliness

2019 ◽  
pp. 216-227 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dawn Joosten-Hagye ◽  
Anne Katz
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Transnational Feminism ◽  
Well Being ◽  
The United States ◽  
Research Attention ◽  
Recent Developments ◽  
Major Predictor ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Health And Well Being ◽  
Global Growth

This chapter examines loneliness and how it affects health and well-being. It discusses how loneliness may lead to ill health but also how ill health may lead to feelings of loneliness. It reviews the evidence suggesting that loneliness is not only linked to overall morbidity and mortality in older adults but also a major predictor of psychological distress. With the global growth of the aging population, considerable research attention focuses on these issues in Europe, the United States, and Australia. The proportion of Australians aged 65 years or older is growing, with prevalence rates of loneliness among older adults as high as 30%. The impact of this is discussed in this chapter, as are recent developments, current conditions, historical trends, transnational feminism and advocacy, and how loneliness impacts the health and well-being of older women in Australia.

scholarly journals Evaluating The Economic Impact Of Marriage Versus Cohabitation In Same-Sex Couples Age 50+

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 876-876
Author(s):  
Setarreh Massihzadegan ◽  
Jan Mutchler
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Marital Status ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Well Being ◽  
The United States ◽  
Economic Security ◽  
Policy Implications ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Same Sex ◽  
Same Sex Couples

Abstract Utilizing the first set of 5-year American Community Survey data available since the United States’ legalization of same-sex marriage in mid-2015, this poster investigates the economic security of older adults (age 50+) in same-sex marriages compared to those in same-sex partnerships who are cohabiting but not married. Viewed through the lens of cumulative disadvantage theory, we consider differences in the economic circumstances of same-sex couples by gender and by geographic location. Findings point to gender differences in economic well-being, but relatively few differences based on marital status. For example, rates of low income are somewhat higher among female couples than among their male counterparts, but marital status differences are not substantial. These findings suggest that the benefits of being married that have long been recognized among older adults may not extend equally to same-sex couples. Findings are discussed with respect to the emerging salience of marriage within the LGBTQ older community, future research opportunities, and important policy implications.

Catalyst to Connection: When Technical Difficulties Lead to Social Support for Older Adults

2018 ◽  
Vol 62 (9) ◽  
pp. 1167-1185 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jessica Francis ◽  
Travis Kadylak ◽  
Taj. W. Makki ◽  
R. V. Rikard ◽  
Shelia R. Cotten
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Ties ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Well Being ◽  
The United States ◽  
Daily Lives ◽  
Ict Use ◽  
Age Related ◽  
The Impact

Information and communication technology (ICT) use can mitigate the negative impact of various age-related threats, such as isolation and loneliness, by facilitating connection with social ties and access to social support. Although research regarding various uses and benefits of ICTs among older adults has increased, there is limited research regarding the impact of technical difficulties on older adults’ well-being. Our study explores technical difficulties encountered, how older adults cope with ICT failure, and the various forms of social support that may result as a consequence of accessing technical support. We use data from nine semistructured focus groups conducted with older adults in the Midwest region of the United States. Results show that older adults may adapt new strategies for coping with the technical difficulties that arise from regular ICT use. Furthermore, as older adults incorporate ICTs into their daily lives and seek assistance from social ties and experts, they may also be indirectly combating the threat of isolation and loneliness.

scholarly journals The Impact of Sheltering in Place During the COVID-19 Pandemic on Older Adults’ Social and Mental Well-Being

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anne C Krendl ◽  
Brea L Perry
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Relationships ◽  
Social Engagement ◽  
Well Being ◽  
The United States ◽  
Relationship Strength ◽  
Personal Social Networks ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Mental Well Being

Abstract Objectives We examined whether social isolation due to the COVID-19 shelter-in-place orders was associated with greater loneliness and depression for older adults, and, if so, whether declines in social engagement or relationship strength moderated that relationship. Methods Between April 21 and May 21, 2020, 93 older adults in the United States who had completed measures characterizing their personal social networks, subjective loneliness, and depression 6–9 months prior to the pandemic completed the same measures via phone interview, as well as questions about the impact of the pandemic on their social relationships. Results Older adults reported higher depression and greater loneliness following the onset of the pandemic. Loneliness positively predicted depression. Perceived relationship strength, but not social engagement, moderated this relationship such that loneliness only predicted depression for individuals who became closer to their networks during the pandemic. For those who felt less close, depression was higher irrespective of loneliness. Discussion The COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected older adults’ mental health and social well-being in the short term. Potential long-term impacts are considered.

scholarly journals Public Libraries Could Better Serve Older Adults by Having More Programming Specifically Directed Toward Them

2014 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 70 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ann Glusker
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
United States Of America ◽  
Adult Literacy ◽  
Public Libraries ◽  
Public Library ◽  
Well Being ◽  
The United States ◽  
Capital City ◽  
The Impact

A Review of: Bennett-Kapusniak, R. (2013). Older Adults and the Public Library: The Impact of the Boomer Generation. Public Library Quarterly, 32(3), 204-222. doi: 10.1080/01616846.2013.818814 Abstract Objective – To determine whether programming at public libraries in the United States is aimed at older adults, and whether the programs help older adults maintain their health and well-being. Design – Web site evaluation. Setting – Public libraries in the United States of America. Subjects – The main library of each public library system located in the capital city of each of the 50 states in the United States of America. Methods – A scan of each of the web sites of the selected public library branches was performed by the author, to determine the number of programs specifically directed towards older adults. Main Results – The scan of sites indicated that there was very little programming specifically aimed at older adults and their needs. Mainly, offerings for older adults took the form of mixing in with adults of all ages. Computer technology class offerings were particularly lacking. The majority of libraries had programs to teach how to access library resources and electronic media (although not necessarily aimed at older adults), programs for those who are less mobile, as well as some adaptive technology for those with sensory disabilities. In addition, the majority of libraries had adult literacy programs, and active collaboration with community organizations. Conclusions – Public libraries can do more to develop programs specifically for older adults. They should take into account the wide diversity of older adults’ information and other needs. In particular, they should consider offering programs that focus on technological skills, and also should offer assistive technology for older patrons. There also needs to be more research on the needs of older adults, from the perspective of the patrons themselves and that of library staff.

scholarly journals COVID-19 pandemic-related changes in wellness behavior among older Americans

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Elgloria Harrison ◽  
Lillie Monroe-Lord ◽  
Andrew D. Carson ◽  
Anne Marie Jean-Baptiste ◽  
Janet Phoenix ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Food Security ◽  
Well Being ◽  
The United States ◽  
Negative Impacts ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Health And Well Being

Abstract Background COVID-19 has taken its toll on citizens in all 50 states of the United States. The United States (U.S.) leads the world with 30,291,863 confirmed reported cases and 549,664 deaths as of March 29, 2021 compared to globally confirmed cases at 127,442,926 and 2,787,915 deaths as of March 29, 2021. The U.S. federal government primarily left the response to the virus to individual states, and each implemented varying measures designed to protect health of citizens and the state’s economic well-being. Unintended consequences of the virus and measures to stop its spread may include decreased physical activity and exercise, shifting access and consumption of food, and lower quality-of-life. Therefore, our primary goal was to quantify the impact of COVID-19 on health and well-being by measuring changes in physical activity, mental health-quality of life, food security and nutrition in adults ages 40 and older. We believed shifts in health behaviors would be more prevalent in minorities, less educated, lower socio-economic status, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions, so a secondary goal was to determine the impact of COVID-19 on these sub-populations. Methods We conducted an online survey with 9969 adults 40 years and older between 9 August and 15 September 2020 in urban areas across the four U.S. census regions. The survey included questions about demographic variables, pre-existing health conditions, physical activity, access to food, quality-of-life, and nutritional food status and asked participants to respond with information from pre-pandemic and pandemic conditions. We used paired-sample t-tests to detect changes in variables after the start of the pandemic and Cohen’s d to determine effect sizes. Results Our main findings showed a decrease in physical activity since the onset of COVID-19 for minorities and non-minorities. Food security also slightly increased for minorities during the pandemic, but we found no other changes in food security, quality-of-life indicators, or nutritional status of those who responded to this survey. Conclusions It is concerning that physical activity declined. Such activity helps maintain physical and mental health, and it is also an important time to socialize for many older adults. In many ways, our data indicate that the older adult population in U.S. cities may be more resilient than expected during the pandemic. However, the pandemic could have negative impacts that we did not detect, either due to the survey instrument or the timing of our survey, so the health and well-being of older adults should continue to be monitored in order to mitigate potential negative impacts.

scholarly journals Moderating Effect of Psychological Resilience on Functional Impairment in Relation to Subsequent Depression

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 484-484
Author(s):  
Shinae Choi ◽  
Eun Ha Namkung
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Depressive Symptoms ◽  
Functional Impairment ◽  
Later Life ◽  
Well Being ◽  
The United States ◽  
Ordinary Least Squares ◽  
Psychological Resilience ◽  
The Impact

Abstract The growing prevalence of functional impairment is a serious concern due to its relation to decreased quality of life in later life. Guided by the social convoy model and the stress process model, the present study investigated whether psychological resilience, particularly optimism and mastery moderated an association between functional impairment and subsequent depressive symptoms in later life. This study used data derived from two population-based national studies in the United States: 2012 and 2016 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (N = 5,035) and 2004 and 2013 waves of the Midlife in the United States (N = 2,476). Ordinary least squares regression was used to estimate the impact of optimism and mastery, respectively, on the associations between functional impairment (baseline measure at wave(t-1), changes over the study period from wave(t-1) to wave(t)) on subsequent changes in depressive symptoms. Across both studies, we found that having and developing functional impairment are related to increased number of depressive symptoms. Optimism independently predicted decreased depressive symptoms over the study periods and buffered the negative effects of functional impairment on depressive symptoms across the two studies. Specifically, the mitigating effects of optimism on depressive symptoms were greater for those with more numbers of functional limitations. The findings suggest that psychological resilience plays a key role in decreasing depressive symptoms, especially for midlife and older adults with functional impairment. The results also demonstrate the importance of examining both optimism and mastery when investigating psychological resilience and emotional well-being in older adults.

scholarly journals Senior Centers and LGBT Participants: Engaging Older Adults Virtually in a Pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 295-295
Author(s):  
Suzanne Marmo ◽  
Manoj Pardasani ◽  
David Vincent
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Social Support ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Well Being ◽  
The United States ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
National Council ◽  
Senior Center ◽  
Senior Centers ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Upon the outbreak of COVID-19, recommendations to cease all non-essential in-person social services were mandated across the United States to prevent transmission to non-infected individuals. As a result, approximately 96% of all senior centers in the United States were closed to in-person programming (National Council on Aging, 2020). LGBT older adults in particular were at higher risk of isolation and declines in overall health as they were more likely to live alone, experience loneliness or have less immediate family support systems when compared to non-LGBT older adults (Yang, Chu & Salmon, 2017). The purpose of this presentation is to explore how LGBT older adult participants in senior centers transitioned to virtual programming during the pandemic. Using a risk-resiliency theory framework, the purpose of this presentation is to share the impact of virtual programming on the health and well-being of LGBT community-dwelling older adults. An exploratory, cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing an online survey to understand their needs, concerns and experiences. Participants reported a relatively easy adaptation to technology, steady participation in programs and services, satisfaction with virtual senior center programming and a consistent sense of engagement with their peers. Higher levels of engagement with senior center programs were associated with greater perceptions of social support. Additionally, stronger perceptions of social support and participation in exercise and fitness programming were associated with higher life satisfaction and lesser symptoms of depression and anxiety. Strategies for outreach, engagement and service provision will be presented.

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