scholarly journals Does social capital interact with economic hardships in influencing older adults’ health? A study from China

2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Lijuan Gu ◽  
Yang Cheng ◽  
David R. Phillips ◽  
Mark Rosenberg ◽  
Linsheng Yang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Capital ◽  
Older People ◽  
Social Participation ◽  
Interaction Effect ◽  
Economic Capital ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Neighborhood Cohesion ◽  
Reported Health

Abstract Background The importance of social and economic capital as predictors of health is widely documented, yet the complexity of interactions between them and effects on older people’s health is still unclear. Combining the material and psychosocial explanations of health, this study explores the potential interactions between social and economic capital in influencing older adults’ health in urban and rural China. Methods Using data from the China Family Panel Survey, physical and mental health in 2018 were regressed on social and economic capital indicators in 2016, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics of 3535 respondents aged 65 and older. Rothman’s synergy index was calculated to investigate potential interaction effects. Results Economic hardships were significantly related to both self-reported health and mental health. Neighborhood cohesion and social participation were significantly associated with mental health for all, bonding trust was significantly associated with mental health for urban older people. We found no significant associations between social capital components and self-reported health. There was an interaction effect between low neighborhood cohesion and economic hardships, and between low social participation and economic hardships, creating an increased burden of poor mental health. The interaction effect between low bonding trust and economic hardships on mental health was apparent only among urban older people. Conclusions Geographical settings are important factors in the complexity between social and economic capital in affecting older health. Intervention efforts directed towards reducing simultaneously multiple dimensions of deprivation, such as poverty, social exclusion, social isolation, could be helpful in improving older people’s health. In materially deprived places, policies to promote health equity by improving social capital but without eliminating poverty may be less effective.

scholarly journals Correlates of excessive daytime sleepiness in community-dwelling older adults: an exploratory study

2015 ◽  
Vol 18 (3) ◽  
pp. 607-617 ◽  
Author(s):  
Camila Astolphi Lima ◽  
Wuber Jefferson de Souza Soares ◽  
Tereza Loffredo Bilton ◽  
Rosângela Corrêa Dias ◽  
Eduardo Ferrioll ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Urinary Incontinence ◽  
Older People ◽  
Excessive Daytime Sleepiness ◽  
Daytime Sleepiness ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Self Rated Health ◽  
Community Dwelling Older Adults

Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) imposes a wide range of adverse health-related outcomes in older people, such as disability, which impair everyday activities and may increase the risk of fall. Few studies have explored EDS in Brazilian older people living in the community who are typically cared in primary health services. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of EDS and its sociodemographic, physical and mental health correlates among community-dwelling older adults. This is an exploratory, population-based study derived from Frailty in Brazilian Older Adults (FIBRA) study including adults aged 65 years and older. Participants with a score ≥ 11 points on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale were considered as having excessive daytime sleepiness. A structured, multidimensional questionnaire was used to investigate sociodemographic, physical and mental health, and self-rated health variables. The sample was composed of 776 older adults, of whom 21% (n = 162) presented excessive daytime sleepiness. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that EDS is associated with obesity (OR = 1.50; 95%CI 1.02 - 2.20), urinary incontinence (OR = 1.53; 95%CI 1.01 - 2.31), poor self-rated health (OR = 1.54; 95%CI 1.06 - 2.24), and depression symptoms (OR = 1.49; 95%CI 1.00 - 2.20). Our results suggest that healthcare professionals should identify older adults with EDS and implement intervention strategies to minimize the negative impact of the co-occurrence of this condition with obesity, depression and urinary incontinence over health and quality of life.

Aging in Place With a Spouse in Need: Neighborhood Cohesion and Older Adult Spouses’ Physical and Mental Health

2020 ◽  
pp. 009141502097461
Author(s):  
Kyuho Lee ◽  
Patrik Marier
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Depressive Symptoms ◽  
Daily Living ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Neighborhood Cohesion ◽  
Spousal Caregiving ◽  
Negative Effect ◽  
Retirement Study

This study examines the association of perceived neighborhood cohesion (NC) with older adults’ health and the buffering effects of NC against the negative effects of spousal caregiving on health. Data of 3329 community-living older adults living with a spouse in need of care from the Health and Retirement Study were collected at two time-points. Multiple regression analyses were computed for each of the four health outcomes. For men, NC predicted fewer depressive symptoms and better cognition. NC buffered the negative effect of providing activities of daily living (ADL) help to the wife on cognition. For women, NC predicted fewer depressive symptoms and better cognition. NC buffered the negative effect of providing ADL help to the husband on ADL difficulties. The results accentuate the importance of residency location for older adults’ physical and mental health. The health benefits of NC may have more implications for older adults providing spousal care.

scholarly journals Relationship between Individual Social Capital and Functional Ability among Older People in Anhui Province, China

2020 ◽  
Vol 17 (8) ◽  
pp. 2775 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zhongliang Bai ◽  
Zijing Wang ◽  
Tiantai Shao ◽  
Xia Qin ◽  
Zhi Hu
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Capital ◽  
Older People ◽  
Social Participation ◽  
Functional Ability ◽  
Functional Disability ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
Anhui Province ◽  
Individual Social Capital ◽  
Interactive Relationship

This study aimed to explore the relationship between individual social capital and functional ability, with a focus on whether there is an interactive relationship that exists among social capital related to functional ability among older people in Anhui province, China. We conducted a cross-sectional study with a multi-stage stratified cluster random sampling method from July to September 2017. Data were collected through questionnaire including demographic characteristics, individual social capital status, and functional capability status. Binary logistic regression analysis model and classification and regression tree model (CART) were utilized. Overall, this study included 1810 elderly people, 43% of whom had functional disability. After the adjustment, subjects with lower social participation (AOR = 1.60; 95% CI: 1.26–2.03) and lower social connection (AOR = 1.74; 95% CI: 1.34–2.25) had an increased risk of functional disability. However, social support (AOR = 0.73; 95% CI: 0.57–0.94) was inversely related to functional ability. We also observed interactive relationship of social capital associated with functional ability, which indicated that special attention and efforts should be paid to older adults with less educational attainment, with multimorbidity, with advanced age, and with lower level of social participation, cohesion for the purpose of maintaining sound functional ability. Our findings may be of salient relevance for devising more targeted and effective interventions to prevent the onset of functional limitations among community-dwelling older adults.

scholarly journals Physical Inactivity in Older Adult Couples: A Dyadic Analysis Using Continuous In-Home Monitoring

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 412-412
Author(s):  
Chao-Yi Wu ◽  
Lyndsey Miller ◽  
Rachel Wall ◽  
Zachary Beattie ◽  
Jeffrey Kaye ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Older Adult ◽  
Physical Inactivity ◽  
Home Monitoring ◽  
Health Determinants ◽  
Dyadic Analysis ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Positive Health ◽  
Aging Research

Abstract Many older adults remain inactive despite the known positive health implications of physical activity (e.g. improved mood, reduced mortality risk). Physical inactivity is a known interdependent phenomenon in couples, but the majority of research identifies determinants of physical inactivity at the individual level. We estimated the average amount of physical inactivity for older adult couples and, using dyadic analysis, identified physical and mental health determinants thereof. Forty-eight heterosexual older adult couples (mean age=70.6, SD=6.63) from the Veterans Integrated Service Network 20 cohort of the Collaborative Aging Research using Technology (CART) initiative were included in this study. Both dyad members wore actigraph devices for a month. The average number per day of inactive periods (defined as no movement or sleep activity for ≥ 30 minutes) was estimated. Multilevel modeling revealed that, within couples, there was no difference between partners in the average number of inactive periods, but on average across couples, males had more inactive periods per day (13.4, SD=4.43) than females (12.3, SD=4.87). For males, older age was the only variable associated with more inactive periods (β=0.13, p=.013). For females, more depressive symptoms in men were associated with fewer inactive periods (β=-0.37, p=.002), and more dependence in completing their own IADLs predicted more inactive periods (β=2.80, p<.001). All models were adjusted for covariates. Viewing couples’ activity as a unit, rather than as separate individuals, provides a novel approach to identifying pathways to reduce inactivity in older adults, especially when focusing on mental health issues and decreased independence within the couple.

scholarly journals Loneliness during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Comparison between Older and Younger People

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (15) ◽  
pp. 7871
Author(s):  
Mostafa Saidur Rahim Khan ◽  
Yoshihiko Kadoya
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older People ◽  
Subjective Health ◽  
Living Condition ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Subjective Health Status ◽  
Policy Interventions ◽  
Mental Health Support ◽  
Health Support ◽  
Precautionary Measures

The precautionary measures and uncertainties surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic have serious psychological impacts on peoples’ mental health. We used longitudinal data from Hiroshima University to investigate loneliness before and during the pandemic among older and younger people in Japan. We provide evidence that loneliness among both older and younger people increased considerably during the pandemic. Although loneliness among younger people is more pervasive, the magnitude of increase in loneliness during the pandemic is higher among older people. Our logit regression analysis shows that age, subjective health status, and feelings of depression are strongly associated with loneliness before and during the pandemic. Moreover, household income and financial satisfaction are associated with loneliness among older people during the pandemic while gender, marital status, living condition, and depression are associated with loneliness among younger people during the pandemic. The evidence of increasing loneliness during the pandemic is concerning for a traditionally well-connected and culturally collectivist society such as Japan. As loneliness has a proven connection with both physical and mental health, we suggest immediate policy interventions to provide mental health support for lonely people so they feel more cared for, secure, and socially connected.

The ‘loneliness pandemic’: implications for gerontological nursing

2021 ◽  
Vol 30 (11) ◽  
pp. 652-655
Author(s):  
Carlos Laranjeira
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Older People ◽  
Chronic Diseases ◽  
Old Age ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Social Relationships ◽  
Vulnerable Groups ◽  
Negative Consequences ◽  
Gerontological Nursing

The COVID-19 pandemic compelled states to limit free movement, in order to protect at-risk and more vulnerable groups, particularly older adults. Due to old age or debilitating chronic diseases, this group is also more vulnerable to loneliness (perceived discrepancy between actual and desired social relationships) and social isolation (feeling that one does not belong to society). This forced isolation has negative consequences for the health of older people, particularly their mental health. This is an especially challenging time for gerontological nursing, but it is also an opportunity for professionals to combat age stereotypes reinforced with COVID-19, to urge the measurement of loneliness and social isolation, and to rethink how to further adjust interventions in times of crisis, such as considering technology-mediated interventions in these uncertain times.

scholarly journals The Sense of Smell and Aging: What We Have Learned From Population Studies

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 810-811
Author(s):  
Jayant Pinto
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Life ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Population Studies ◽  
Vital Role ◽  
Sensory Function ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Sense Of Smell ◽  
Health Aging

Abstract Decline of the sense of smell with age causes a marked impact on older adults, markedly reducing quality of life. Olfactory dysfunction impairs nutrition, decreases the ability to experience pleasure, and results in depression, among other burdens. Large-scale population studies have identified impaired olfaction as a key heath indicator that predicts the development of decreased physical and mental health, reduced physical activity, weight loss, mild cognitive impairment and dementia, and mortality itself. These data have been generated via analyses of data from several aging cohorts, including the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP); the Beaver Dam cohort; the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities project; the Rush Memory and Aging Project; the Health, Aging, and Body Composition project; the Washington Heights/Inwood Columbia Aging Project; among others. In this presentation, we will review the close connection between olfaction, health, aging, including discussion of insights from these studies. We will also discuss emerging data from NSHAP on the effects of sensory function on cognition, mental health, and social interaction, which demonstrate that sensory function plays a vital role in the lives of older adults. Part of a symposium sponsored by Sensory Health Interest Group.

scholarly journals Cognition, Health, and Social Support of Formerly Homeless Older Adults in Permanent Supportive Housing

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anita M Souza ◽  
Jenny Hsin-Chin Tsai ◽  
Kenneth C Pike ◽  
Francesca Martin ◽  
Susan M McCurry
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Global Mental Health ◽  
Case Managers ◽  
Supportive Housing ◽  
Homeless Population ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Permanent Supportive Housing ◽  
Formerly Homeless

Abstract Background and Objectives Formerly homeless older adults residing in Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) represent an invisible subsector of two distinct, yet related populations: the homeless population and the elderly population. Little research is focused on the complex health concerns facing this aging population within the homelessness response system. Of particular concern is the identification and support of individuals with cognitive impairment and co-occurring chronic conditions. We collaborated with a leading housing services provider to develop a systematic screening system for case managers to capture the cognitive, physical, and psychosocial health of older adults served within homeless housing programs. Research Design and Methods PSH residents aged ≥50 years in four sites screened as being without cognitive impairment on the Mini-Cog were enrolled. A brief demographic survey and selected PROMIS measures were used to characterize participants’ demographics, cognition, global physical and mental health, physical functioning, self-efficacy for social interactions, and instrumental support. PSH case managers were trained to recruit participants and collect data. PROMIS scales were scored using the Health Measures Scoring Service. Descriptive statistics, correlations, and one sample t-tests were performed. Results Fifty-three residents (mean age = 60.8 years, range 50–76 years) participated. The majority self-identified as male and were military veterans; 60% reported having a history of two or more episodes of homelessness. All PROMIS scores were significantly (p < .05) lower than reference U.S. population means, with global mental health and cognition having the lowest scores. Discussion and Implications Self-reported cognitive functioning and global mental health were residents’ greatest concerns. Strengthening housing case manager capacity to assess residents’ cognitive and health status could increase support for older adults in PSH. It is feasible to train PSH staff to conduct structured interviews to identify resident cognitive and health needs to help support this “invisible” population to successfully age in place.

The economic recession and subjective well-being in older adults in the Republic of Ireland

2016 ◽  
Vol 36 (2) ◽  
pp. 99-104 ◽  
Author(s):  
R. M. Duffy ◽  
K. Mullin ◽  
S. O’Dwyer ◽  
M. Wrigley ◽  
B. D. Kelly
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Older People ◽  
Urban Areas ◽  
Economic Recession ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Poor Health ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Subjective Well Being ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Future Health

ObjectiveSubjective well-being in older people is strongly associated with emotional, physical and mental health. This study investigates subjective well-being in older adults in Ireland before and after the economic recession that commenced in 2008.MethodsCross-sectional data from the biennial European Social Survey (2002–2012) were analysed for two separate groups of older adults: one sampled before the recession and one after. Stratification and linear regression modelling were used to analyse the association between subjective well-being, the recession and multiple potential confounders and effect modifiers.ResultsData were analysed on 2013 individuals. Overall, subjective well-being among older adults was 1.30 points lower after the recession compared with before the recession (s.e. 0.16; 95% confidence interval 1.00–1.61; p<0.001) [pre-recession: 16.1, out of a possible 20 (s.d. 3.24); post-recession:14.8 (s.d. 3.72)]. Among these older adults, the pre- and post-recession difference was especially marked in women, those with poor health and those living in urban areas.ConclusionsSubjective well-being was significantly lower in older adults after the recession compared with before the recession, especially in women with poor health in urban areas. Policy-makers need proactively to protect these vulnerable cohorts in future health and social policy. Future research could usefully focus on older people on fixed incomes whose diminished ability to alter their economic situation might make them more vulnerable to reduced subjective well-being during a recession.

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