scholarly journals Is Physical Activity Associated With Loneliness or Social Isolation in Older Adults? Results of a Longitudinal Analysis Using the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing

2020 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Ilona I. McMullan ◽  
Brendan P. Bunting ◽  
Annette Burns ◽  
Lee Smith ◽  
Connor Cunningham ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Los Angeles ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Longitudinal Association ◽  
Socially Isolated ◽  
The University ◽  
Health And Well Being

Social relationships are central to the health and well-being of older adults. Evidence exploring the association of physical activity (PA) with social isolation and loneliness is limited. This study uses a path analysis to investigate the longitudinal association between loneliness and social isolation with PA using the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing. Higher levels of social isolation measured using the Berkman–Syme Social Network Index were directly and indirectly associated with lower levels of walking, moderate PA, and vigorous PA over 6 years. Additionally, higher levels of walking were associated with lower levels of loneliness measured using a modified version of the University of California, Los Angeles loneliness scale over a 3-year period. Future interventions should target individuals who are more socially isolated and explore the effects of different types of PA on loneliness over time.

scholarly journals Association between musculoskeletal pain with social isolation and loneliness: analysis of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing

2018 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 82-90 ◽  
Author(s):  
Toby O Smith ◽  
Jack R Dainty ◽  
Esther Williamson ◽  
Kathryn R Martin
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Los Angeles ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Musculoskeletal Pain ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Network Size ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Social Contacts ◽  
English Longitudinal Study

Introduction: Musculoskeletal pain is a prevalent health challenge for all age groups worldwide, but most notably in older adults. Social isolation is the consequence of a decrease in social network size with a reduction in the number of social contacts. Loneliness is the psychological embodiment of social isolation and represents an individual’s perception of dissatisfaction in the quality or quantity of their social contacts. This study aims to determine whether a relationship exists between musculoskeletal pain and social isolation and loneliness. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) cohort was undertaken. ELSA is a nationally representative sample of the non-institutionalised population of individuals aged 50 years and over based in England. Data were gathered on social isolation through the ELSA Social Isolation Index, loneliness through the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale and musculoskeletal pain. Data for covariates included physical activity, depression score, socioeconomic status, access to transport and demographic characteristics. Logistic regression analyses were undertaken to determine the relationship between social isolation and loneliness with pain and the additional covariates. Results: A total of 9299 participants were included in the analysis. This included 4125 (44.4%) males, with a mean age of 65.8 years. There was a significant association where social isolation was lower for those in pain (odd ratio (OR): 0.87; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.75 to 0.99), whereas the converse occurred for loneliness where this was higher for those in pain (OR: 1.15; 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.31). Age, occupation, physical activity and depression were all associated with increased social isolation and loneliness. Conclusion: People who experience chronic musculoskeletal pain are at greater risk of being lonely, but at less risk of being socially isolated. Health professionals should consider the wider implications of musculoskeletal pain on individuals, to reduce the risk of negative health implications associated with loneliness from impacting on individual’s health and well-being.

scholarly journals The 4Ms in a Pandemic: A Survey of Training Needs Among Healthcare Professionals, Older Adults, and Community Members

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 828-829
Author(s):  
Jennifer Crittenden ◽  
Abigail Elwell ◽  
David Wihry ◽  
Lenard Kaye
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Training Needs ◽  
Two Dimensions ◽  
Grief And Loss ◽  
Community Members ◽  
The University ◽  
Health And Well Being

Abstract The University of New England, in collaboration with the University of Maine, received a five-year grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to improve the health and well-being of Maine’s older adults through enhanced training under HRSA’s Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP). As part of these efforts, stakeholder training needs assessment data were collected via a statewide electronic survey that was distributed to community members and providers throughout Maine. The survey, which focused on the 4M’s of Age-Friendly Healthcare, received 68 responses from older adults/community members (N = 26), program administrators (N = 12), along with community leaders, and those working in the public and non-profit sector (N = 13). A significant emphasis on social isolation, mental health, and grief and loss issues was noted and dominating themes centering on two dimensions of the 4M framework: “What Matters” and “Mentation.” Findings reflect an overriding priority by providers and consumers to keep older adults socially connected (28%, N = 34) and maintaining mental health and well-being during the pandemic (21%, N = 14). Qualitative response analysis identified additional COVID-19-related training topics such as: what to do if you or a loved one contracts coronavirus, how to handle grief and loss related to COVID-19, strategies for supporting loved ones during COVID-19, and socially distanced bereavement support. Results indicate a need to focus on meeting the emotional and mental health needs of older adults, as well as the importance of encouraging connections and mitigating the effects of social isolation during COVID-19.

scholarly journals Social Isolation and Well-Being Among Middle-Age and Older Adults: Before and During the COVID-19 Outbreak

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 38-38
Author(s):  
Lydia Li
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Social Connectedness ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Symptoms Of Depression ◽  
Physical Isolation ◽  
Multiple Dimensions ◽  
Aging And Health ◽  
Socially Isolated ◽  
The Relationship

Abstract This symposium brings together five studies that examined the relationship between social isolation and well-being. Two used pre-COVID data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). One aimed to identify patterns of social isolation trajectory in a 9-year period, where social isolation was conceptualized as a multidimensional construct. It identified four distinct patterns, and the pattern had a gradient relationship with health outcomes. Another examined the association between self-perceptions of aging (SPA) and social well-being among older adults. It found that positive SPA predicted increased social connectedness and reduced loneliness in four years. Two other studies were based on a longitudinal survey (COVID-19 Coping Survey) that began in April 2020. One reports that adults 55+ with comorbidity at pandemic onset had persistently elevated depressive symptoms in a 6-month period, regardless of their social isolation level. Another paper suggests that physical isolation at pandemic onset was associated with elevated symptoms of depression, anxiety, and loneliness throughout the following six months. The fifth paper was based on two-wave data—2019 survey and 2020 COVID supplement—from the National Aging and Health Trend Study (NAHTS). It found that older adults who were very socially isolated and completely homebound before the pandemic experienced less psychological distress during the outbreak than those who were very socially integrated and not homebound. The five studies highlight the multiple dimensions of social isolation, their antecedents and development over time, and their role in shaping mental health in a pandemic context.

scholarly journals Intergeneration Bonding: An Acceptability and Feasibility Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 712-713
Author(s):  
Lauren Rezac ◽  
Miechelle McKelvey ◽  
Ladan Ghazi Saidi
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Nursing Homes ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Assisted Living ◽  
Response Rates ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Younger Adults ◽  
Interest Level ◽  
The University

Abstract Social isolation and loneliness are detrimental risk factors to older adult’s physical and psychological well-being and quality of life. Given the current situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, social isolation has risen. Social isolation affects younger adults as well and may increase the chances of depression and anxiety. In this study, we tested the acceptability and feasibility of an Intergenerational Bonding (IGB) Program with older and younger adults. Participants include students aged 19-29 at the University of Nebraska at Kearney and older adults above the age of 60 residing in the community. First, we surveyed younger and older adults to determine their interest level in participating in an IGB Program. Both groups of participants rated their interest in different activities. The most popular activities among both groups included engaging in conversations, board games, and an exchange of skills. Neither of the groups was in favor of participating in free housing opportunities or sports-related activities. Response rates were high in young adults but low in older adults, due to lack of trust. Then, in a pilot study, we measured the feasibility and acceptability of the IGB Program. Older adults residing in independent dwellings, assisted living environments, nursing homes and members of community groups were invited to participate in the intergenerational program. Response rates of older adults were low. Further, establishing collaboration with institutions such as nursing homes was not easy despite initial interest. Building trust and working with community activity group facilitators would be beneficial in recruiting older adults.

Association between sleep and mental health and well-being among older adults in the canadian longitudinal study on aging

2019 ◽  
Vol 64 ◽  
pp. S323-S324
Author(s):  
R. Rodrigues ◽  
K. Nicholson ◽  
P. Wilk ◽  
G. Guaiana ◽  
S. Stranges ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Health And Well Being

The Influence of Harmonic Gymnastics on Flexibility, Dynamic Balance, Health and Well-Being of Older Adults: A Pilot Research

2020 ◽  
Vol 65 (4) ◽  
pp. 67-80
Author(s):  
Iris Malka ◽  
Iacob Hanțiu
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Dynamic Balance ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Body Awareness ◽  
Life Questionnaire ◽  
Balance Test ◽  
Sf 36 ◽  
Hamstring Flexibility ◽  
Health And Well Being

ABSTRACT. Background. Physical activity (PA) is highly recommended for older adults in order to improve physical functioning, health and well-being. Aims. The purposes of this pilot research were: to investigate the influence of Harmonic Gymnastics (HG) on flexibility, dynamic balance, health and well-being of older adults, and to verify the feasibility of the research tools. Methods. In this pilot research 15 healthy men and women, mean age 58.7 (6.5), from Tel Aviv, Israel, volunteered to participate in the research program, which included 50 min. of HG practice, three times a week, for six weeks. Three questionnaires – SF-36 Health and quality of life questionnaire, The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) and the Mindfulness Awareness Assessment Scale (MAAS) – and two physical skills testing equipment – Y Balance Test (YBT) and the Back Saver Sit and Reach test (BSSR) – were used to assess the subjects. Results. Post-test results showed significant improvements of total score of health and well-being by SF-36 (p < 0.05) and body awareness by MAAS (p <0.0001), but no significant results for SF-36 (0.0629) subscales nor for the global PA measured by GPAQ (p= 0.391). Participants improved hamstring flexibility (p < 0.05) and dynamic balance of right leg (p < 0.001) and left leg (p = 0.00001). Conclusions. This pilot research indicates the feasibility of YBT, BSSR, MAAS and SF-36. HG was found to be tailored for older adults. Older adults improved functioning capabilities, body awareness, health and well-being after the program.

scholarly journals Control striving in older adults with serious health problems: A 9-year longitudinal study of survival, health, and well-being.

2010 ◽  
Vol 25 (2) ◽  
pp. 432-445 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nathan C. Hall ◽  
Judith G. Chipperfield ◽  
Jutta Heckhausen ◽  
Raymond P. Perry
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Health And Well Being ◽  
Control Striving

scholarly journals 24 Loneliness, Social Isolation and Frailty Among Older Adults in England: Results From the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing

2021 ◽  
Vol 50 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. i7-i11
Author(s):  
K Davies ◽  
A Maharani ◽  
T Chandola ◽  
C Todd ◽  
N Pendleton
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Longitudinal Study ◽  
Relative Risk ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Social Inclusion ◽  
Smoking Status ◽  
Frailty Index ◽  
Isolation Measure ◽  
Socially Isolated ◽  
English Longitudinal Study

Abstract Introduction Ten percent of over 65 s and between a quarter and half of over 85 s are frail. Loneliness and social isolation are associated with increased falls, rates of hospitalisation and mortality. Lonely and socially isolated older adults may also be at risk of frailty. We examined the relationship between loneliness, social isolation and incident frailty among older adults in England longitudinally over 12 years. Methods The study sample are 9,171 older adults aged ≥50 years participating in a population representative longitudinal panel survey, the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing Waves 2–8. To define frailty across the biannual waves, we used the Frailty Index (FI), analysed continuously and into categories (FI ≤0.08 non-frail, 0.08–0.25 pre-frail and ≥ 0.25–1 frail). We used baseline (Wave 2): loneliness measure using the UCLA 3-item loneliness scale; social isolation measure using previously reported method (Banks et al. The Institute for Fiscal Studies. 2006.). Both were categorised into low/medium/high. To examine relationships, we used linear mixed methods modelling (for the continuous FI), and Cox proportional hazard model (for the categorical FI). Results Loneliness (β = 0.023; 95% CI = 0.022, 0.025) and social isolation (β = 0.007; 95% CI = 0.003, 0.010) were significantly associated with increased FI, after adjusting for cofounders (gender, age, marital status, smoking status and wealth). There was a 60% greater relative risk of belonging to the frail class with a medium loneliness score compared to low (HR = 1.570; 95% CI 1.492, 1.652) and a 160% greater relative risk with high loneliness score compared to low (HR = 2.621; 95% CI 2.488, 2.761). Although less pronounced, there was a 1% greater relative risk of developing frailty with a medium social isolation score compared to low (HR = 1.010, 95% CI 1.010, 1.197) and a 30% greater relative risk with high social isolation score compared to low (HR = 1.267; 95% CI 1.154, 1.390). Conclusions Our research indicates both loneliness and social isolation increase risk of developing frailty, expanding on previous evidence. This provides further support to the importance of understanding approaches to promote social inclusion of older adults.

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