Consumer Well-Being and Happiness

2015 ◽  
pp. 62-86
Keyword(s):  
Environmental Pollution ◽  
Chronic Diseases ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Financial Decisions ◽  
Consumption Decisions ◽  
Important Impact ◽  
Societal Problems

The products and services people consume can contribute to their happiness and well-being. In fact, many societal problems—such as chronic diseases, suboptimal financial decisions, and environmental pollution—are related to consumption activities. Thus, there is a need to understand, and to develop better models to explain, how individuals make consumption decisions, especially those decisions that have an important impact on their well-being. This chapter includes an analysis of how consumption activities can influence consumer happiness. Specifically, it addresses the question of whether it is possible for consumers to increase their happiness through consumption activities. Research has shown that experiences make people happier than material possessions.

scholarly journals AB1336-HPR NON-PHARMACOLOGIC TOPICS RELEVANT FOR CLINICAL RESEARCH IN RHEUMATIC DISEASES: THE PATIENT PERSPECTIVE

2020 ◽  
Vol 79 (Suppl 1) ◽  
pp. 1956.2-1956
Author(s):  
F. Ingegnoli ◽  
T. Schioppo ◽  
T. Ubiali ◽  
S. Ostuzzi ◽  
M. Buoli ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Clinical Research ◽  
Environmental Pollution ◽  
Rheumatic Diseases ◽  
Social Life ◽  
Eating Habits ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Psychological Well Being ◽  
Work Activity ◽  
Patients Perspective

Background:The research approach on Rheumatic diseases (RDs) is challenging and patient involvement as partners in medical research is an emerging force to obtain relevant information and to add unique skills, values and experiences to research. Despite growing interest in non-pharmacologic aspects of clinical research in RDs, the patients’ perspective is currently poorly explored.Objectives:To identify and rank the priorities for clinical research according to patients’ perspective.Methods:A structured face-to-face meeting between physicians and a patient representative was convened to list the non-pharmacologic topics relevant to RD patients. A cross-sectional no-profit on-line anonymous survey was devised to evaluate opinions of RD patients. They were asked to rate the following topics: food/nutrition, air pollution, smoking, work activity, social participation, physical activity, emotional well-being/stress, alternative medicine, and patient-physician relationship. Moreover, patients were asked to explain for which reason a topic was considered important (disease prevention, halting disease progression, symptoms control and disease cure). The survey was disseminated by ALOMAR (Lombard Association for Rheumatic Diseases) between June and October 2019.Results:200 rheumatic patients completed the survey: 130 inflammatory arthritis, 50 connective tissue diseases/vasculitis, and 20 among osteoarthritis, gout, condrocalcinosis, polymyalgia and primary fibromyalgia. Respondents were 178 female with median age of 50 years and median disease duration of 7 years. Among the nine topics identified, the one most rated by patients was the doctor-patient relationship; 188 (94%) of respondents considered this topic very or extremely important (see table below). In descending order, patients rated very or extremely important: psychological well-being/stress 185 (92.5%), physical activity 155 (77.5%), nutrition, eating habits and alcohol 150 (75%), alternative therapies 144 (72%), work activity 144 (72%), environmental pollution 134 (67%), social life 121 (60.5%) and cigarette smoke 119 (59.5%). The topics considered relevant was perceived to be able to influence disease symptoms. Regarding RD prevention, environmental pollution and cigarette smoking were considered the most important topics, while fewer patients believed that research on other topics could help to stop disease progression or to achieve disease healing.RankingTopicNot or quite importantVery or extremely important1Doctor-patient relationship, n (%)12 (6.0)188 (94.0)2Psychological well-being/stress, n (%)15 (7.5)185 (92.5)3Physical activity, n (%)45 (22.5)155 (77.5)4Nutrition/eating habits/alcohol, n (%)50 (25.0)150 (75.0)5Alternative therapies, n (%)56 (28.0)144 (72.0)6Work activity, n (%)56 (28.0)144 (72.0)7Environmental pollution, n (%)66 (33.0)134 (67.0)8Social life, n (%)79 (39.5)121 (60.5)9Cigarette smoke, n (%)81 (40.5)119 (59.5)Conclusion:This survey highlights the relevance of several unmet needs. The holistic approach, in terms of medical consultation and psychological well-being, is considered the most important component able to influence disease perception. By capturing patient opinions on non-pharmacological topics for clinical research, this survey indicates that the active patient involvement is essential to design successful translational studies and improve clinical outcomes.Acknowledgments:We thank the Lombard Association of Rheumatic Diseases (ALOMAR) for its contribution to plan and disseminate the survey and the group that sustain systemic sclerosis (GILS).Disclosure of Interests:Francesca Ingegnoli: None declared, Tommaso Schioppo: None declared, Tania Ubiali: None declared, Silvia Ostuzzi: None declared, Massimiliano Buoli: None declared, Valentina Bollati: None declared, Roberto Caporali Consultant of: AbbVie; Gilead Sciences, Inc.; Lilly; Merck Sharp & Dohme; Celgene; Bristol-Myers Squibb; Pfizer; UCB, Speakers bureau: Abbvie; Bristol-Myers Squibb; Celgene; Lilly; Gilead Sciences, Inc; MSD; Pfizer; Roche; UCB

Mindfulness-based stress reduction for people with chronic diseases

2010 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 200 ◽  
Author(s):  
Monika Merkes
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Chronic Diseases ◽  
Stress Reduction ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Original Research ◽  
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction ◽  
The Impact

Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) is a structured group program that uses mindfulness meditation to improve well-being and alleviate suffering. This article reviews the impact of MBSR for people with chronic diseases. The review includes original research that was published in English and peer-reviewed and reported outcomes for adults with chronic diseases who had participated in an MBSR program. Fifteen studies were identified. Outcomes related to mental and physical health, well-being, and quality of life. The studies included different research designs, and used self-report and physiological outcome measures. Participants’ clinical diagnoses included fibromyalgia, chronic pain, rheumatoid arthritis, type 2 diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, multiple chemical sensitivity, and cardiovascular diagnoses. All 15 studies found that participation in an MBSR program resulted in improvements. No negative change was reported between baseline and follow up. Outcomes in regard to specific variables were difficult to compare and equivocal. Overall, positive change predominated. Chronic diseases are associated with a range of unwelcome psychological and physical consequences. Participation in an MBSR program is likely to result in coping better with symptoms, improved overall well-being and quality of life, and enhanced health outcomes. As an adjunct to standard care, MBSR has potential for much wider application in Australian primary care settings.

scholarly journals Socioeconomic Factors and Health Status Disparities Associated with Difficulty in ADLs and IADLs among Long-Lived Populations in Brazil: A Cross-Sectional Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 58 ◽  
pp. 004695802110072
Author(s):  
Júlia Cristina Leite Nóbrega ◽  
Juliana Barbosa Medeiros ◽  
Tácila Thamires de Melo Santos ◽  
Saionara Açucena Vieira Alves ◽  
Javanna Lacerda Gomes da Silva Freitas ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Health Status ◽  
Activities Of Daily Living ◽  
Socioeconomic Factors ◽  
Chronic Diseases ◽  
Daily Living ◽  
Female Gender ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional

Objective: To evaluate the association between socioeconomic factors, health status, and Functional Capacity (FC) in the oldest senior citizens in a metropolis and a poor rural region of Brazil. Method: Cross-sectional study of 417 seniors aged ≥80 years, data collected through Brazil’s Health, Well-being and Aging survey. FC assessed by self-reporting of difficulties in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). Chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed using “R” statistical software. Results: Socioeconomic and demographic inequalities in Brazil can influence FC in seniors aged 80 years and older. Comparatively, urban long-lived people had a higher prevalence of difficulties for ADLs and rural ones showed more difficulties for IADLs. Among urban oldest seniors, female gender and lower-income were correlated with difficulties for IADLs. Among rural oldest seniors, female gender, stroke, joint disease, and inadequate weight independently were correlated with difficulties for ADLs, while the number of chronic diseases was associated with difficulties for IADLs. Conclusion: Financial constraints may favor the development of functional limitations among older seniors in large urban centers. In poor rural areas, inadequate nutritional status and chronic diseases may increase their susceptibility to functional decline.

scholarly journals Empowering families facing end-stage nonmalignant chronic diseases with a holistic, transdisciplinary, community-based intervention: 3 months outcome of the Life Rainbow Program

2020 ◽  
pp. 1-10
Author(s):  
Man-Chi Law ◽  
Bobo Hi-Po Lau ◽  
Anna Y. Y. Kwok ◽  
Judy S. H. Lee ◽  
Rain N. Y. Lui ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Chronic Diseases ◽  
Information Needs ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Caregiver Strain ◽  
Spiritual Support ◽  
Community Based ◽  
Average Hospital ◽  
Hospital Bed ◽  
Bed Days ◽  
End Stage

Abstract Objectives Families facing end-stage nonmalignant chronic diseases (NMCDs) are presented with similar symptom burdens and need for psycho-social–spiritual support as their counterparts with advanced cancers. However, NMCD patients tend to face more variable disease trajectories, and thus may require different anticipatory supports, delivered in familiar environments. The Life Rainbow Programme (LRP) provides holistic, transdisciplinary, community-based end-of-life care for patients with NMCDs and their caregivers. This paper reports on the 3-month outcomes using a single-group, pre–post comparison. Method Patients with end-stage NMCDs were screened for eligibility by a medical team before being referred to the LRP. Patients were assessed at baseline (T0), 1 month (T1), and 3 months (T2) using the Integrated Palliative Outcome Scale (IPOS). Their hospital use in the previous month was also measured by presentations at accident and emergency services, admissions to intensive care units, and number of hospital bed-days. Caregivers were assessed at T0 and T2 using the Chinese version of the Modified Caregiver Strain Index, and self-reported health, psychological, spiritual, and overall well-being. Over-time changes in outcomes for patients, and caregivers, were tested using paired-sample t-tests, Wilcoxon-signed rank tests, and chi-square tests. Results Seventy-four patients and 36 caregivers participated in this research study. Patients reported significant improvements in all IPOS domains at both 1 and 3 months [ranging from Cohen's d = 0.495 (nausea) to 1.793 (depression and information needs fulfilled)]. Average hospital bed-days in the previous month fell from 3.50 to 1.68, comparing baseline and 1 month (p < 0.05). At 3 months, caregiver strain was significantly reduced (r = 0.332), while spiritual well-being was enhanced (r = 0.333). Significance After receiving 3 month's LRP services, patients with end-stage NMCDs and their caregivers experienced significant improvements in the quality of life and well-being, and their hospital bed-days were reduced.

Health and Environmental Tolls of Protracted Conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa

2021 ◽  
Vol 120 (830) ◽  
pp. 339-345
Author(s):  
Jeannie Sowers ◽  
Erika Weinthal
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Middle East ◽  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Environmental Pollution ◽  
North Africa ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Economic Policies ◽  
Public Debates ◽  
War Zones ◽  
Access To Food

The effects of conflict on public health and ecosystem well-being are understudied and rarely figure in public debates about war-making. Protracted conflicts are particularly damaging to people and environments in ways that are inadequately documented. In recent wars in the Middle East and North Africa, parties to the conflicts have induced hunger and displacement and undermined public health through the use of violence and economic policies that deprive civilians of access to food, water, fuel, and livelihoods. Environmental pollution is widespread, particularly in cities that became war zones, while the COVID-19 pandemic has deepened conflict-induced poverty and food insecurity.

scholarly journals Prevalence of Multimorbidity of Chronic Noncommunicable Diseases in Brazil: Population-Based Study (Preprint)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Xin Shi ◽  
Simone Maria da Silva Lima ◽  
Caroline Maria de Miranda Mota ◽  
Ying Lu ◽  
Randall S Stafford ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Chronic Diseases ◽  
Household Survey ◽  
Well Being ◽  
National Sample ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Community Services ◽  
Noncommunicable Diseases ◽  
Subjective Well Being ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Multiple Chronic Diseases

BACKGROUND Multimorbidity is the co-occurrence of two or more chronic diseases. OBJECTIVE This study, based on self-reported medical diagnosis, aims to investigate the dynamic distribution of multimorbidity across sociodemographic levels and its impacts on health-related issues over 15 years in Brazil using national data. METHODS Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, hypothesis tests, and logistic regression. The study sample comprised 679,572 adults (18-59 years of age) and 115,699 elderly people (≥60 years of age) from the two latest cross-sectional, multiple-cohort, national-based studies: the National Sample Household Survey (PNAD) of 1998, 2003, and 2008, and the Brazilian National Health Survey (PNS) of 2013. RESULTS Overall, the risk of multimorbidity in adults was 1.7 times higher in women (odds ratio [OR] 1.73, 95% CI 1.67-1.79) and 1.3 times higher among people without education (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.28-1.41). Multiple chronic diseases considerably increased with age in Brazil, and people between 50 and 59 years old were about 12 times more likely to have multimorbidity than adults between 18 and 29 years of age (OR 11.89, 95% CI 11.27-12.55). Seniors with multimorbidity had more than twice the likelihood of receiving health assistance in community services or clinics (OR 2.16, 95% CI 2.02-2.31) and of being hospitalized (OR 2.37, 95% CI 2.21-2.56). The subjective well-being of adults with multimorbidity was often worse than people without multiple chronic diseases (OR=12.85, 95% CI: 12.07-13.68). These patterns were similar across all 4 cohorts analyzed and were relatively stable over 15 years. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows little variation in the prevalence of the multimorbidity of chronic diseases in Brazil over time, but there are differences in the prevalence of multimorbidity across different social groups. It is hoped that the analysis of multimorbidity from the two latest Brazil national surveys will support policy making on epidemic prevention and management.

scholarly journals Household Financial Situation during the COVID-19 Pandemic with Particular Emphasis on Savings—An Evidence from Poland Compared to Other CEE States

Risks ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (9) ◽  
pp. 166
Author(s):  
Grażyna Szustak ◽  
Witold Gradoń ◽  
Łukasz Szewczyk
Keyword(s):  
Well Being ◽  
Regression Method ◽  
Linear Regression Method ◽  
Household Savings ◽  
Main Aspect ◽  
Financial Decisions ◽  
Econometric Methods ◽  
Multiple Linear Regression Method ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Research Show

The aim of this article is to analyze and assess the impact of the pandemic on the finances of households in Poland, compared to other CEE countries (including Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary), with particular emphasis on changes in the level of their savings, which are considered to be the foundation for the development of the indicated research group. There is no doubt that the pandemic had an impact on the situation of households, which is mainly visible in the labor market (rising unemployment), and thus the question arises to what extent have the households’ approaches to financial decisions changed because of this situation? The propensity to save was taken into account as a main aspect of this problem, because it has, among others, a big impact on the financial well-being (in a broader sense). Using the multiple linear regression method, the factors that influence the level of household savings were determined. The results of the research show that these factors are different in the analyzed countries and have a different impact on the level of the explained variable, which is the gross saving rate. The research should also be treated as a preliminary one. It constitutes a contribution to in-depth research with the use of more sophisticated statistical and econometric methods, which will allow for the better assessment of the examined issue.

scholarly journals Introduction

2017 ◽  
Vol 37 (5) ◽  
pp. 135-136
Author(s):  
Siobhan O’Donnell
Keyword(s):  
Health Status ◽  
Anxiety Disorder ◽  
Anxiety Disorders ◽  
Chronic Diseases ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Sociodemographic Factors ◽  
Activity Limitations ◽  
Sociodemographic Characteristics ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Health Related

We are pleased to bring you the second of two special issues on mood and anxiety disorders focussing on data from the 2014 Survey on Living with Chronic Diseases in Canada—Mood and Anxiety Disorder Component (SLCDC-MA). In December of 2016, we published the first issue, which included three articles describing various aspects of Canadian adults with a self-reported diagnosed mood and/or anxiety disorder including their sociodemographic characteristics, health status, activity limitations and level of disability and factors associated with well-being. The three articles in this (second) issue investigate topics related to the management of these disorders. Collectively, the articles explore key sociodemographic factors known to influence health-related outcomes and discuss strategies aimed at promoting the recovery and well-being of Canadian adults with a self-reported mood and/or anxiety disorder diagnosis.

Financial Inclusion through Financial Literacy

2022 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 0-0
Keyword(s):  
Financial Literacy ◽  
Uttar Pradesh ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Financial Education ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Financial Inclusion ◽  
Financial Decisions ◽  
College Curriculum ◽  
Financial Exclusion ◽  
The Government

Financial literacy is a means to tackle the problem of financial exclusion. It is a combination of awareness, skills, knowledge, attitude and behaviors necessary to make sound financial decisions and achieve financial well being. Objective of this study is to analyze current policy, practices and evidences on financial literacy. The study has been carried out on the basis of review of literature and secondary data collected from a range of sources. It is found that the government of India, RBI and other regulatory bodies are running financial literacy campaigns through diverse mediums. Financial literacy centers (FLCs) are contributing for enhancement of financial literacy. However, they need to be strengthened by enhancing resources. Inclusion of financial education in school and college curriculum has also been recommended. Scope of the study is limited to Ghaziabad district of Uttar Pradesh in India. The study might be valuable for policymakers in enhancing financial inclusion.

Developing Sustainable Governance Systems for Regional Sustainability Programmes and ‘Green’ Business Practices

2012 ◽  
pp. 467-485
Author(s):  
Tim Cadman ◽  
Margee Hume
Keyword(s):  
Good Governance ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Business Community ◽  
Sustainable Business ◽  
Regional Sustainability ◽  
Sustainable Living ◽  
Consumption Decisions ◽  
Governance Systems ◽  
Green Business ◽  
Sustainability Initiatives

Achieving sustainable consumption and sustainable living is a response to the scientific and international communities’ concern that the world is living beyond its ecological systems, facing a potential crisis with regard to its environmental and other resources. All individuals, firms and communities, in relation to production of housing, transport and food consumption decisions must unite to develop sustainable change and well being. They all have a role to play in creating and promoting sustainable community development. Sustainability is an umbrella term that incorporates sustainability’s environmental, social and economic dimensions and takes on such ideas as reducing environmental impact, enhancing quality of life, minimising waste, taking a life cycle approach and looking at ecological preservation for future generations. From a business perspective sustainable green practice incorporates all elements of business from inputs procurement, manufacture, packaging design and marketing. To ensure the process of sustainable business is successful and ethical the goals of sustainability and good governance need to be managed in business practice. This chapter offers an overview of current implementation of green governance systems that relate to regional sustainability programmes and green firm’s practices. This work offers credibility to the field of sustainability research and practice by identifying and discussing all actors in the business community and how they interact with sustainability. From a regional perspective innovative primary producers and resource stewards often take up green initiatives with little or no knowledge of the governance quality and legitimacy of the schemes they are seeking to implement. This chapter looks at market-based sustainability initiatives, investigates the strengths and weaknesses of two timber certification programmes, and identifies some key governance requirements to improve green practice at the global, regional and local levels

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