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Nowland R, McNally L, Gregory P. Parents' use of digital technology for social connection during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed-methods study. Scand J Psychol 2024; 65:533-548. [PMID: 38258304 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2021) resulted in isolation due to social distancing rules and lockdowns, during which technology was used to enable families and friends to maintain contact. Despite loneliness being high in parents, little is known about which parents are more likely to experience loneliness and strategies to support them. METHOD This mixed-methods study examines which parents were lonely during the pandemic and how digital technologies were used to reduce loneliness and social isolation. Data were collected during the first UK lockdown from May to July 2020 via an online survey (N = 145) and follow-up interviews (n = 13). RESULTS Loneliness reported during lockdown was greater than retrospective reporting of loneliness for all respondents, but it was higher in single parents, those caring for children with specific needs, and those with lower household incomes before and during lockdown. Parents rapidly adapted to and experimented with using technology for social connection during the lockdown, which helped to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Video calling was found to be useful for making connections and enhancing social presence, but parents also experienced anxieties and difficulties with its use. There were mixed views about technology use; some were keen to continue using technology for socializing after the lockdown ended, but for others, it was only a temporary measure. CONCLUSION Although technology was invaluable during the pandemic, it was not a panacea, and the way parents used it was influenced by their approach to technology and existing social behaviors and networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Nowland
- School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Lara McNally
- School of Community Health and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Peggy Gregory
- School of Computing Science, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Hardy MS, Fanaki C, Savoie C, Wilchesky M, Gagnon MP, Laberge M, Couture V, Côté A, Dallaire C, Voyer P, Gallani MC, Dallaire B, Gagnon É. Long-term care staffs' experience in facilitating the use of videoconferencing by cognitively impaired long-term care residents during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed-methods study. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:646. [PMID: 38769512 PMCID: PMC11106931 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11095-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous long-term care (LTC) homes faced restrictions that prevented face-to-face visits. To address this challenge and maintain family connections, many LTC homes facilitated the use of electronic tablets to connect residents with their family caregivers. Our study sought to explore the acceptability of this practice among staff members and managers, focusing on their experiences with facilitating videoconferencing. METHODS A convergent mixed method research was performed. Qualitative and quantitative data collection through semi-structured interviews to assess the acceptability of videoconferencing in long-term care homes and to explore the characteristics of these settings. Quantitative data on the acceptability of the intervention were collected using a questionnaire developed as part of the project. The study included a convenience sample of 17 staff members and four managers. RESULTS Managers described LTC homes' characteristics, and the way videoconferencing was implemented within their institutions. Affective attitude, burden, ethicality, opportunity costs, perceived effectiveness, and self-efficacy are reported as per the constructs of the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability. The results suggest a favorable acceptability and a positive attitude of managers and staff members toward the use of videoconferencing in long-term care to preserve and promote contact between residents and their family caregivers. However, participants reported some challenges related to the burden and the costs regarding the invested time and staff shortage. CONCLUSIONS LTC home staff reported a clear understanding of the acceptability and challenges regarding the facilitation of videoconferencing by residents to preserve their contact with family caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Soleil Hardy
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Chaimaa Fanaki
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Camille Savoie
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Machelle Wilchesky
- Department of Family Medicine and Division of Geriatric Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3S 1Z1, Canada
| | | | - Maude Laberge
- Faculty of Administration, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Vincent Couture
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - André Côté
- Faculty of Administration, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Clémence Dallaire
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Philippe Voyer
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | | | | | - Éric Gagnon
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Université Laval, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
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De Santis KK, Kirstein M, Kien C, Griebler U, McCrabb S, Jahnel T. Online dissemination of Cochrane reviews on digital health technologies: a cross-sectional study. Syst Rev 2024; 13:133. [PMID: 38750593 PMCID: PMC11095012 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-024-02557-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This cross-sectional study investigated the online dissemination of Cochrane reviews on digital health technologies. METHODS We searched the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from inception up to May 2023. Cochrane reviews with any population (P), intervention or concept supported by any digital technology (I), any or no comparison (C), and any health outcome (O) were included. Data on review characteristics (bibliographic information, PICO, and evidence quality) and dissemination strategies were extracted and processed. Dissemination was assessed using review information on the Cochrane website and Altmetric data that trace the mentions of academic publications in nonacademic online channels. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Out of 170 records identified in the search, 100 Cochrane reviews, published between 2005 and 2023, were included. The reviews focused on consumers (e.g. patients, n = 86), people of any age (n = 44), and clinical populations (n = 68). All reviews addressed interventions or concepts supported by digital technologies with any devices (n = 73), mobile devices (n = 17), or computers (n = 10). The outcomes focused on disease treatment (n = 56), health promotion and disease prevention (n = 27), or management of care delivery (n = 17). All reviews included 1-132 studies, and half included 1-10 studies. Meta-analysis was performed in 69 reviews, and certainty of evidence was rated as high or moderate for at least one outcome in 46 reviews. In agreement with the Cochrane guidelines, all reviews had a plain language summary (PLS) that was available in 3-14 languages. The reviews were disseminated (i.e. mentioned online) predominantly via X/Twitter (n = 99) and Facebook (n = 69). Overall, 51 reviews were mentioned in up to 25% and 49 reviews in 5% of all research outputs traced by Altmetric data. Dissemination (i.e. higher Altmetric scores) was associated with bibliographic review characteristics (i.e. earlier publication year and PLS available in more languages), but not with evidence quality (i.e. certainty of evidence rating, number of studies, or meta-analysis performed in review). CONCLUSIONS Online attention towards Cochrane reviews on digital health technologies is high. Dissemination is higher for older reviews and reviews with more PLS translations. Measures are required to improve dissemination of Cochrane reviews based on evidence quality. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION The study was prospectively registered at the Open Science Framework ( https://osf.io/mpw8u/ ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Karolina De Santis
- Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, 28359, Germany.
| | - Mathia Kirstein
- Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, 28359, Germany
| | - Christina Kien
- Department for Evidence-Based Medicine and Evaluation, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Ursula Griebler
- Department for Evidence-Based Medicine and Evaluation, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Sam McCrabb
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Tina Jahnel
- Department of Health Services Research, Faculty 11 Human and Health Sciences, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
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Davison TE, Bhar S, Wells Y, Owen PJ, You E, Doyle C, Bowe SJ, Flicker L. Psychological therapies for depression in older adults residing in long-term care settings. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 3:CD013059. [PMID: 38501686 PMCID: PMC10949416 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013059.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is common amongst older people residing in long-term care (LTC) facilities. Currently, most residents treated for depression are prescribed antidepressant medications, despite the potential availability of psychological therapies that are suitable for older people and a preference amongst many older people for non-pharmacological treatment approaches. OBJECTIVES To assess the effect of psychological therapies for depression in older people living in LTC settings, in comparison with treatment as usual, waiting list control, and non-specific attentional control; and to compare the effectiveness of different types of psychological therapies in this setting. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Common Mental Disorders Group Controlled Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, five other databases, five grey literature sources, and two trial registers. We performed reference checking and citation searching, and contacted study authors to identify additional studies. The latest search was 31 October 2021. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster-RCTs of any type of psychological therapy for the treatment of depression in adults aged 65 years and over residing in a LTC facility. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened titles/abstracts and full-text manuscripts for inclusion. Two review authors independently performed data extraction and risk of bias assessments using the Cochrane RoB 1 tool. We contacted study authors for additional information where required. Primary outcomes were level of depressive symptomatology and treatment non-acceptability; secondary outcomes included depression remission, quality of life or psychological well-being, and level of anxious symptomatology. We used Review Manager 5 to conduct meta-analyses, using pairwise random-effects models. For continuous data, we calculated standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), using endpoint data, and for dichotomous data, we used odds ratios and 95% CIs. We used GRADE to assess the certainty of the evidence. MAIN RESULTS We included 19 RCTs with 873 participants; 16 parallel group RCTs and three cluster-RCTs. Most studies compared psychological therapy (typically including elements of cognitive behavioural therapy, behavioural therapy, reminiscence therapy, or a combination of these) to treatment as usual or to a condition controlling for the effects of attention. We found very low-certainty evidence that psychological therapies were more effective than non-therapy control conditions in reducing symptoms of depression, with a large effect size at end-of-intervention (SMD -1.04, 95% CI -1.49 to -0.58; 18 RCTs, 644 participants) and at short-term (up to three months) follow-up (SMD -1.03, 95% CI -1.49 to -0.56; 16 RCTs, 512 participants). In addition, very low-certainty evidence from a single study with 82 participants indicated that psychological therapy was associated with a greater reduction in the number of participants presenting with major depressive disorder compared to treatment as usual control, at end-of-intervention and short-term follow-up. However, given the limited data on the effect of psychological therapies on remission of major depressive disorder, caution is advised in interpreting this result. Participants receiving psychological therapy were more likely to drop out of the trial than participants receiving a non-therapy control (odds ratio 3.44, 95% CI 1.19 to 9.93), which may indicate higher treatment non-acceptability. However, analyses were restricted due to limited dropout case data and imprecise reporting, and the finding should be interpreted with caution. There was very low-certainty evidence that psychological therapy was more effective than non-therapy control conditions in improving quality of life and psychological well-being at short-term follow-up, with a medium effect size (SMD 0.51, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.82; 5 RCTs, 170 participants), but the effect size was small at postintervention (SMD 0.40, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.82; 6 RCTs, 195 participants). There was very low-certainty evidence of no effect of psychological therapy on anxiety symptoms postintervention (SMD -0.68, 95% CI -2.50 to 1.14; 2 RCTs, 115 participants), although results lacked precision, and there was insufficient data to determine short-term outcomes. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This systematic review suggests that cognitive behavioural therapy, behavioural therapy, and reminiscence therapy may reduce depressive symptoms compared with usual care for LTC residents, but the evidence is very uncertain. Psychological therapies may also improve quality of life and psychological well-being amongst depressed LTC residents in the short term, but may have no effect on symptoms of anxiety in depressed LTC residents, compared to control conditions. However, the evidence for these effects is very uncertain, limiting our confidence in the findings. The evidence could be strengthened by better reporting and higher-quality RCTs of psychological therapies in LTC, including trials with larger samples, reporting results separately for those with and without cognitive impairment and dementia, and longer-term outcomes to determine when effects wane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya E Davison
- Research and Innovation, Silverchain, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
- Health and Innovation Transformation Centre, Federation University, Ballarat, Australia
| | - Sunil Bhar
- Department of Psychological Sciences, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yvonne Wells
- Australian Institute for Primary Care & Ageing, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Patrick J Owen
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
| | - Emily You
- Academic Unit for Psychiatry of Old Age (AUPOA), Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Colleen Doyle
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Steven J Bowe
- Deakin Biostatistics Unit, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
- School of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Leon Flicker
- Western Australian Centre for Health and Ageing (WACHA), University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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Defrancesco M, Schurr TA, Hofer A. COVID-19 restrictions promoted the newly occurring loneliness in older people - a prospective study in a memory clinic population. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1340498. [PMID: 38528978 PMCID: PMC10961460 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1340498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction A high burden and many negative outcomes for older people were associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Social isolation and loneliness are prevalent health problems impacting well-being and quality of life and may have increased due to pandemic-related restrictions. Methods: This study investigate the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on loneliness in people visiting a mem40ory clinic between March 2020 and September 2022. We conducted a prospective, single-center, questionnaire-based observational follow-up study to assess potential predictors of newly occurring, pandemic-related loneliness. Next to a newly developed COVID-19 questionnaire, a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery, the Neuropsychiatric Inventory and the Geriatric Depression Scale were used. Results In total 426 people (mean age: 76.48 years, 12.9% cognitively intact, 33.1% diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment, 49.8% diagnosed with dementia, and 4.2% diagnosed with depression) completed the COVID-19 questionnaire at baseline and 166 at follow-up. Newly occurring loneliness was indicated by 22.3% of baseline participants and by 24.1% of follow-up participants. Results of logistic regression analysis showed that living alone (OR 5.452) and having less contact with friends (OR 2.771) were most predictive of the occurrence of loneliness. The use of digital communication media as an alternative strategy for social interaction was lowest in dementia patients (6-13%). Discussion In conclusion, personal contacts and a close friendship network appear to be more decisive to prevent loneliness in older people than does the use of digital communication media. However, promoting an intensified use of digital communication media may be useful to counteract loneliness, especially in dementia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Defrancesco
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Walker T, Buckingham SA, Poole R, Elliott LR, Menneer T, Tu G, Morrissey K. Telephone-Based Training Intervention for Using Digital Communication Technologies for Social Housing Residents During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Mixed Methods Feasibility and Acceptability Evaluation. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e45506. [PMID: 38277209 PMCID: PMC10858426 DOI: 10.2196/45506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In an era in which digital communication technologies play a pivotal role in everyday life, social housing residents remain highly susceptible to digital exclusion. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a telephone-based training intervention designed to empower people to confidently use digital communication technologies (ie, video calls and web-based messaging). METHODS Conducted in collaboration with a UK social housing association, the intervention was facilitated by a unitary authority's Digital Inclusion Team during the COVID-19 pandemic. A mixed methods approach was used, encompassing quantitative and qualitative data collection on demand, reach, implementation, and potential outcomes. Demographic and qualitative data on the reasons for undertaking or not undertaking the training were collected via telephone interviews during the recruitment process. Digital competency and well-being data were collected via a self-reported survey before and after the intervention. RESULTS Among the 4485 residents who were offered training, 67 (1.49%) expressed interest, of whom 12 (18%) of the 67 completed the training. The findings indicate a demand for basic digital training among social housing residents. The key findings revolve around the substantial dropout rate among those who were interested in undertaking the training. Barriers were strongly influenced by socioeconomic and health circumstances, reflecting the sociodigital inequalities commonly found in this group. For the training participants, the intervention was acceptable and achieved its goals, demonstrating the potential of tailored, persistent training efforts in overcoming barriers. There were no changes in self-reported well-being or digital competency outcomes (but this was limited by the small sample size). CONCLUSIONS Sociodigital inequalities impact the reach, implementation, and acceptability of telephone-based digital training for social housing residents. Barriers to reaching and training digitally excluded groups can be overcome through the use of trusted intermediaries, personalized recruitment approaches, the minimization of administrative barriers, and tailored and agile training programs. Recognizing the resource-intensive nature of such initiatives, this study calls for enhanced recognition of intermediary efforts in national digital inclusion policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Walker
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Ann Buckingham
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, United Kingdom
| | - Ria Poole
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, United Kingdom
| | - Lewis Roland Elliott
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, United Kingdom
| | - Tamaryn Menneer
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, United Kingdom
| | - Gengyang Tu
- International Business School Suzhou, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China
| | - Karyn Morrissey
- Department of Technology, Management and Economics, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
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Baron DH, Coulthard E, David C, Sinclair LI. The risk of developing dementia in the COVID-19 pandemic; a cohort study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2024; 39:e6041. [PMID: 38217550 PMCID: PMC10952166 DOI: 10.1002/gps.6041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on cognitive decline are not fully understood. Higher social activity and relationships have been associated with decreased risk of dementia. We hypothesised that risk of transition to dementia would increase after the start of the first national lockdown. METHODS We obtained data from the Brains for Dementia (BDR) cohort, which has collected roughly annual data on 3726 older adults with and without dementia since 2008. Data continued to be collected during the lockdowns, although by telephone and/or video call instead of in person. Individuals diagnosed with dementia at study entry were excluded from this study as were individuals with only one visit. Cognitive status was classified using the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) global score. Poisson regression with cubic splines to account for differences in age was used to compare the incidence of dementia before and after March 1st 2020. RESULTS Out of 2242 individuals, 208 individuals developed dementia before and 50 developed dementia after 01/03/20. The incidence rate ratio of developing dementia after 01/03/20 was 0.847 (0.538-1.335) p = 0.570. In our secondary analysis we found that the positive association between mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia incidence decreased after 1/3/20 (interaction effect p = 0.031). CONCLUSION The incidence of dementia as defined using the CDR global score did not change significantly after the first lockdown began, but we found evidence that lockdown decreased the positive association between MCI and dementia incidence. This may reflect that individuals were progressing to dementia more rapidly and thus missing the MCI stage or that assessing patients over the phone made diagnosing MCI more challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hendrik Baron
- Dementia Research GroupUniversity of BristolBristolUK
- Frimley Health NHS Foundation TrustSurreyUK
| | | | - Carslake David
- Population Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology UnitUniversity of BristolBristolUK
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Kiuchi S, Takeuchi K, Kusama T, Cooray U, Tamada Y, Osaka K, Tabuchi T. Does online communication mitigate the association between a decrease in face-to-face communication and laughter during the COVID-19 pandemic? A cross-sectional study from JACSIS study. Prev Med Rep 2023; 36:102432. [PMID: 37781106 PMCID: PMC10534252 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Laughter has a protective effect on human health. The spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has changed opportunities for face-to-face communication and might decrease opportunities for laughter. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate whether the decrease in face-to-face communication during the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with a decrease in laughter. Additionally, we investigated whether an increase in online communication mitigates this association. Data from the "Japan COVID-19 and Society Internet Survey (JACSIS)," conducted between August and September 2020, were used. Participants aged 15-79 years were included in this study. The outcome was a decrease in laughter before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The explanatory variables were decreased face-to-face communication with friends and increased online communication (text message, telephone, and video contact). Causal mediation analysis was used to calculate prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) of the controlled direct effects of increased online communication. Furthermore, the proportions eliminated (PEs) by an increase in online communication were calculated. Among the 25,482 participants, 40.4 % had decreased face-to-face communication and 21.4 % had a decreased frequency of laughter. After adjusting for confounders, a decrease in face-to-face communication was significantly associated with a decrease in laughter (PR = 1.62, 95 %CI = 1.55-1.70). PEs for decrease in laughter were 27.2 % (95 %CI = -2.0 to 56.4) for text-based communication, 36.1 % (95 %CI = 12.3-59.8) for telephone-based communication, and 28.6 % (95 %CI = 0.6-56.6) for video-based communication. Although a decrease in face-to-face communication was associated with a decrease in laughter during the COVID-19 pandemic, online communication, particularly telephone-based communication, mitigated this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakura Kiuchi
- Frontier Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Sciences, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
- Department of International and Community Oral Health, Tohoku University Graduate School of Dentistry, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kenji Takeuchi
- Department of International and Community Oral Health, Tohoku University Graduate School of Dentistry, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
- Division of Statistics and Data Science, Liaison Center for Innovative Dentistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Dentistry, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Taro Kusama
- Department of International and Community Oral Health, Tohoku University Graduate School of Dentistry, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
- Division of Statistics and Data Science, Liaison Center for Innovative Dentistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Dentistry, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Upul Cooray
- Department of International and Community Oral Health, Tohoku University Graduate School of Dentistry, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yudai Tamada
- Department of International and Community Oral Health, Tohoku University Graduate School of Dentistry, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Ken Osaka
- Department of International and Community Oral Health, Tohoku University Graduate School of Dentistry, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takahiro Tabuchi
- Cancer Control Center, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, Japan
- Tokyo Foundation for Policy Research, Tokyo, Japan
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Welch V, Ghogomu ET, Barbeau VI, Dowling S, Doyle R, Beveridge E, Boulton E, Desai P, Huang J, Elmestekawy N, Hussain T, Wadhwani A, Boutin S, Haitas N, Kneale D, Salzwedel DM, Simard R, Hébert P, Mikton C. Digital interventions to reduce social isolation and loneliness in older adults: An evidence and gap map. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2023; 19:e1369. [PMID: 38024780 PMCID: PMC10681039 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Social isolation and loneliness are more common in older adults and are associated with a serious impact on their well-being, mental health, physical health, and longevity. They are a public health concern highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, hence the need for digital technology tools to enable remotely delivered interventions to alleviate the impact of social isolation and loneliness during the COVID-19 restrictions. Objectives To map available evidence on the effects of digital interventions to mitigate social isolation and/or loneliness in older adults in all settings except hospital settings. Search Methods We searched the following databases from inception to May 16, 2021, with no language restrictions. Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, APA PsycInfo via Ovid, CINAHL via EBSCO, Web of Science via Clarivate, ProQuest (all databases), International Bibliography of the Social Sciences (IBSS) via ProQuest, EBSCO (all databases except CINAHL), Global Index Medicus, and Epistemonikos. Selection Criteria Titles and abstracts and full text of potentially eligible articles were independently screened in duplicate following the eligibility criteria. Data Collection and Analysis We developed and pilot tested a data extraction code set in Eppi-Reviewer and data were individually extracted and coded based on an intervention-outcome framework which was also used to define the dimensions of the evidence and gap map. Main Results We included 200 articles (103 primary studies and 97 systematic reviews) that assessed the effects of digital interventions to reduce social isolation and/or loneliness in older adults. Most of the systematic reviews (72%) were classified as critically low quality, only 2% as high quality and 25% were published since the COVID-19 pandemic. The evidence is unevenly distributed with clusters predominantly in high-income countries and none in low-income countries. The most common interventions identified are digital interventions to enhance social interactions with family and friends and the community via videoconferencing and telephone calls. Digital interventions to enhance social support, particularly socially assistive robots, and virtual pets were also common. Most interventions focused on reducing loneliness and depression and improving quality of life of older adults. Major gaps were identified in community level outcomes and process indicators. No included studies or reviews assessed affordability or digital divide although the value of accessibility and barriers caused by digital divide were discussed in three primary studies and three reviews. Adverse effects were reported in only two studies and six reviews. No study or review included participants from the LGBTQIA2S+ community and only one study restricted participants to 80 years and older. Very few described how at-risk populations were recruited or conducted any equity analysis to assess differences in effects for populations experiencing inequities across PROGRESS-Plus categories. Authors' Conclusions The restrictions placed on people during the pandemic have shone a spotlight onto social isolation and loneliness, particularly for older adults. This evidence and gap map shows available evidence on the effectiveness of digital interventions for reducing social isolation or loneliness in older adults. Although the evidence is relatively large and recent, it is unevenly distributed and there is need for more high-quality research. This map can guide researchers and funders to consider areas of major gaps as priorities for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Welch
- Methods Centre, Bruyère Research InstituteOttawaOntarioCanada
| | | | | | - Sierra Dowling
- Methods Centre, Bruyère Research InstituteOttawaOntarioCanada
| | | | - Ella Beveridge
- Methods Centre, Bruyère Research InstituteOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - Elisabeth Boulton
- School of Health Sciences, Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social WorkUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Payaam Desai
- Methods Centre, Bruyère Research InstituteOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - Jimmy Huang
- Methods Centre, Bruyère Research InstituteOttawaOntarioCanada
| | | | | | - Arpana Wadhwani
- Methods Centre, Bruyère Research InstituteOttawaOntarioCanada
| | | | | | - Dylan Kneale
- Social Science Research Unit, EPPI‐Centre, UCL Institute of EducationUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Douglas M. Salzwedel
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and TherapeuticsUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | | | - Paul Hébert
- Bruyère Research InstituteUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
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10
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Heinrich S, Weissenfels I, Zeller A. Emotions, action strategies and expectations of health professionals and people with dementia regarding COVID-19 in different care settings in Switzerland: a mixed methods study. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:631. [PMID: 37803286 PMCID: PMC10559654 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-04315-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 55 million people are currently affected by dementia worldwide and over 144 thousand in Switzerland. In Swiss nursing homes, 47.6% of the residents had a medical diagnosis of dementia in 2014. Due to cognitive impairment, they have difficulties remembering hygiene measures or placing them in the epidemic context. This results in a higher infection risk. There are COVID-19-associated recommendations focused on dementia care management but studies simultaneously surveying and correlating perspectives of health professionals as well as people with dementia across care settings are largely lacking. This study is focused on COVID-19-associated perspectives and needs of health professionals and people with dementia across different care settings. Lessons learned from the pandemic shall be pointed out. METHODS We conducted a mixed-methods approach based on an exploratory sequential design. Two qualitative interview rounds (n = 15 participants) and a quantitative online survey (n = 148 participants) with people with dementia, caring relatives, Advanced Practice Nurses and nursing home managers (health professionals) were performed. Data collected was performed in nursing home and home-care settings. The SQRQ checklist was used. RESULTS Fear and uncertainty were highest at the beginning of the pandemic among the interviewed nursing professionals and nursing home managers. As a positive side effect of the pandemic, increased cohesion in care teams was reported. Some people with dementia experienced the decelerated outside world as pleasant and less challenging to master. Particularly during the first wave, nursing home managers rated political decision-making processes as being too slow, partly non-transparent, inconsistent, and sometimes inappropriate for people with dementia. CONCLUSIONS Although the identified emotional and physical consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic are mostly negative for health professionals and people with dementia, research should also investigate potential positive side effects. Furthermore, political decisions should be passed on to care institutions as promptly, transparently, and comprehensibly as possible. The results provide guidance on dementia-focused COVID-19 management interventions incorporating lessons learned and considering the emotional impact of the pandemic in Switzerland and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Heinrich
- Dementia Competence Centre, IPW Institute of Applied Nursing Science - Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, Rosenbergstrasse 59, St.Gallen, 9001, Switzerland.
| | - Inga Weissenfels
- Dementia Competence Centre, IPW Institute of Applied Nursing Science - Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, Rosenbergstrasse 59, St.Gallen, 9001, Switzerland
| | - Adelheid Zeller
- Dementia Competence Centre, IPW Institute of Applied Nursing Science - Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, Rosenbergstrasse 59, St.Gallen, 9001, Switzerland
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11
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Zhang D, Lu Q, Li L, Wang X, Yan H, Sun Z. Loneliness in nursing homes: A qualitative meta-synthesis of older people's experiences. J Clin Nurs 2023; 32:7062-7075. [PMID: 37605069 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older people in the nursing home environment are much less mobile and capable of taking care of themselves as they age, and most of them face the plight of loneliness, which seriously affects the quality of life of older people in their later years. AIMS A systematic review and synthesis of older people's experiences of loneliness in nursing homes. DESIGN Following ENTREQ, do a systematic evaluation and synthesis of qualitative investigations. METHODS A search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, the Chinese biomedical literature service system, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, the Wanfang Database and the Wipu Database for qualitative studies of older people's experiences of loneliness in nursing homes was conducted with a search time frame of March 2023. Evaluation of the quality of the literature using the Joanna Briggs Institute's Australian Centre for Evidence-Based Health Care Quality Assessment Criteria for Qualitative Research, And the data were synthesised using Thomas and Harden's method of thematic and content analysis. RESULTS A total of 13 papers were included, and 36 research findings were distilled and integrated into three themes: causes of loneliness; feelings of loneliness; coping with loneliness; and seven sub-themes: aging and loss; environmental transformation; loneliness is a pain; loneliness is a choice; participation; strengthening social ties; and diverting attention. CONCLUSIONS Older people in nursing homes face varying degrees of loneliness, which is a subjective feeling influenced by the interplay between personal awareness and the external environment, so future care interventions should be developed in a comprehensive manner, taking into account the characteristics of the older people themselves and their external environment. NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION This study is a meta-synthesis and does not require relevant contributions from patients or the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deping Zhang
- Day Surgery Room, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qizhen Lu
- Operating room, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Li Li
- Central sterile Supply department, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wang
- Mammography, Liaoning Cancer Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Hongqi Yan
- Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, General Hospital of Northern Theatre command, Shenyang, China
| | - Zijian Sun
- Haemodialysis Unit, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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12
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Doyle M, Louw JS, Corry M. Staff Perceptions of the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Older Adults Living in a Residential Long-Term Care Facility. J Gerontol Nurs 2023; 49:44-50. [PMID: 37768581 DOI: 10.3928/00989134-20230915-02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Older adults residing in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) were an at-risk group during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Actions to prevent transmission in LTCFs included visitation restrictions, suspension of group activities, and isolating residents in their rooms. Despite these measures, this vulnerable cohort experienced high levels of infection and mortality. The current article reports RNs' and health care assistants' perceptions of the impact of COVID-19 on residents in a LTCF. Using a descriptive qualitative design, semi-structured interviews, which were conducted with seven RNs and four health care assistants, were thematically analyzed. Three themes emerged: Impact on Daily Routine, Disruption to Relationships With Staff, and Vulnerability. Staff perceived residents were negatively impacted physically, emotionally, and socially as a direct consequence of COVID-19 and by strategies introduced to protect them contracting the virus. It is recommended that the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on this cohort be evaluated from the perspective of all stakeholders (i.e., residents, staff, and families) using a longitudinal research design. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 49(10), 44-50.].
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13
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Wang X, Zhang C, Luan W. Social isolation, depression, nutritional status and quality of life during COVID-19 among Chinese community-dwelling older adults: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e072305. [PMID: 37723110 PMCID: PMC10510871 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-072305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This survey investigated the relationship between social isolation, depression, nutritional status and quality of life among community-dwelling older adults during COVID-19. DESIGN This was a cross-sectional survey study. SETTING Communities in Pudong New Area, Shanghai, China that have contracted with Renji Hospital, affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. PARTICIPANTS From May to July 2022, 406 community-dwelling older adults were selected by convenience sampling in Shanghai, China. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES The Lubben Social Network Scale, Geriatric Depression Scale, 36-item Short Form Health Survey Scale and risk assessment of malnutrition were used in older adults. Mediation models were constructed to determine the mediating role of depression and nutritional status on social isolation and quality of life among older adults. RESULTS The prevalence of social isolation among older adults in the community was 44.3%. The total social isolation score in community-dwelling older adults was positively associated with the total malnutrition risk and quality of life scores, and negatively associated with depression (p<0.01). Logistic regression demonstrated that living alone, loss of families or friends during COVID-19 and depression were risk factors for social isolation among community-dwelling older adults (p<0.05). Social isolation could directly affect the quality of life (β=0.306). In addition, depression (β=0.334) and nutritional status (β=0.058) had a significant mediating effect on the relationship between social isolation and quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Our findings showed that the prevalence of social isolation among older adults increased during COVID-19. Depression and nutritional status played parallel mediating roles on the effect of social isolation on quality of life. Community workers and healthcare providers should develop intervention plans to improve the status of social isolation in older adults, eliminating existing and ongoing adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Wang
- Nursing Department, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Nursing, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengrui Zhang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Nursing, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Luan
- Nursing Department, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of TCM, Shanghai, China
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14
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Zhong BL, Yuan MD, Li F, Sun P. The Psychological Network of Loneliness Symptoms Among Chinese Residents During the COVID-19 Outbreak. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:3767-3776. [PMID: 37705850 PMCID: PMC10497046 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s424565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Social distancing measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to increased levels of loneliness, but the specific interactions between loneliness symptoms in the context of the pandemic remain unknown. This study characterized the psychological network of loneliness symptoms in residents during the initial wave of COVID-19 outbreak in China. Patients and Methods The study recruited 8472 Chinese residents (61.5% women, aged 33.0±10.6 years) through online snowball sampling. The Six-item De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale (DJGLS) was used to measure loneliness symptoms. Central symptoms of and bridge symptoms between emotional and social loneliness subscales were identified based on centrality and bridge centrality indices, respectively. Network stability was examined using the case-dropping procedures. Results The nodes in the loneliness network were separated into two groups, corresponding to the social and emotional loneliness domains of the DJGLS. The strongest direction association was between "no reliable people" and "no trustworthy people" (edge weight=0.546). "No trustworthy people" has the highest node strength (1.047) in the loneliness network, followed by "emptiness sense" (0.767) and "no reliable people" (0.749). "Feeling of rejection" (1.672) and "no close people" (0.403) showed the first and second highest bridge strengths, respectively. Both the stability and accuracy tests supported robustness of the whole network. Conclusion Interventions targeting central symptoms "no trustworthy people" and "emptiness sense" and central bridge symptom "feeling of rejection" may be effective for alleviating the overall level of loneliness in pandemic-affected Chinese residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Liang Zhong
- Department of Psychiatry, Wuhan Mental Health Center, Wuhan, Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China
- Research Center for Psychological and Health Sciences, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), Wuhan, Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Meng-Di Yuan
- Research Center for Psychological and Health Sciences, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), Wuhan, Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Psychiatry, Huangpu District Mental Health Center, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Peng Sun
- Department of Psychiatry, Huangpu District Mental Health Center, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
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15
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Watanabe K, Tani T, Suzuki A, Kawakami K, Watanabe M, Yamasaki K, Morota K. Using Video Calls to Reduce Risky Behaviors and Enhance Instruction Understanding of Patients in Acute Care Hospitals During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Cureus 2023; 15:e45074. [PMID: 37842485 PMCID: PMC10568234 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.45074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds During the COVID-19 pandemic, visitor restrictions in healthcare settings adversely affected patients. Video calls have emerged as an essential digital alternative that can decrease patients' anxiety and improve satisfaction. This study investigated whether family-initiated video calls could mitigate delirium symptoms and risky behaviors and enhance patients' comprehension of instructions. Methods This observational study used medical chart data and the Diem Payment System from a single acute care hospital in Fukuoka, Japan. The study involved patients hospitalized between May 2020 and August 2021 who used video chat systems. Patients or their relatives used video calls through Skype. The frequency of video chat use served as the primary exposure. Changes in the patients' risky behaviors and instruction comprehension upon discharge were the primary outcomes. Results A total of 532 patients were included in the study, with an average age of over 70 years. After implementing the inverse probability of treatment weighting adjustment, an improved balance across age, sex, BMI categories, and other variables was observed. The effects of video calls on risky behaviors and instruction comprehension varied. Patients with three or more video calls showed distinct effects compared with those with fewer calls. When hospitalization was limited to three weeks, video calls noticeably influenced risky behaviors (p=0.022, 95% CI:1.08-2.63), but not instruction comprehension (p=0.226, 95% CI:0.43-1.22). Conclusions The use of video calls as a visitation method in acute care hospitals during a pandemic suggests that video calls reduce risky behaviors in patients with a three-week stay. This alternative to physical visitations contributes positively to patient safety and supports ongoing efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuya Watanabe
- Department of Physical Therapy, Shimonoseki Nursing and Rehabilitation School, Yamaguchi, JPN
- Department of Psychosomatic Dentistry, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo, JPN
| | - Takuaki Tani
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Healthcare and Regulatory Sciences, Showa University School of Pharmacy, Tokyo, JPN
| | - Atsushi Suzuki
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shinkomonji Hospital, Fukuoka, JPN
| | - Kei Kawakami
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shinkomonji Hospital, Fukuoka, JPN
| | - Mami Watanabe
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shinkomonji Hospital, Fukuoka, JPN
| | - Kei Yamasaki
- Department of Physical Therapy, Shimonoseki Nursing and Rehabilitation School, Yamaguchi, JPN
| | - Koichi Morota
- Department of Radiology, Shinkomonji Hospital, Fukuoka, JPN
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16
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Beogo I, Sia D, Collin S, Phaelle Gedeon A, Louismé MC, Ramdé J, Gagnon MP, Tchouaket Nguemeleu E. Strengthening Social Capital to Address Isolation and Loneliness in Long-Term Care Facilities During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Systematic Review of Research on Information and Communication Technologies. JMIR Aging 2023; 6:e46753. [PMID: 37578824 PMCID: PMC10463087 DOI: 10.2196/46753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately and severely affected older adults, namely those living in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). Aside from experiencing high mortality rates, survivors were critically concerned by social isolation and loneliness (SIL). To address this serious public health concern and stay connected with LTCF residents, information and communication technology (ICT) platforms (eg, video calls) were used as an alternative to maintaining social interactions amid the visiting restriction policy. OBJECTIVE This paper aimed to synthesize the effects of ICT-related communication interventions using SMS text messaging or chat, video, voice mail, or photo to address SIL in LTCF residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS In total, 2793 references published in English and French in 2019 and onward were obtained from 10 relevant databases: PsycINFO-Ovid, Ovid-MEDLINE, CINAHL-EBSCO, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, DirectScience, Communication & Mass Media Complete, IEEE Xplore, and ACM Digital Library. A 2-person screening approach was used, and the studies were screened independently and blindly. A narrative synthesis was performed to interpret the results of the included studies, and their quality was appraised. RESULTS In total, 4 studies were included in the review. ICT-related applications were used to ensure connectedness to address SIL. ICT interventions consisted mainly of videoconferencing, intergroup video call sessions between residents, and chatting (SMS text messages and phone calls). Roughly 3 classes of mediating ICT tools were used: video calls using software applications (eg, Skype); robot systems embedding video telephones; and ordinary telecommunication such as telephone, internet, social media platforms, and videoconferencing. This review has included the role of humanoid robots in LTCFs as an innovation avenue because of their multipurpose use (eg, communication tools and remotely operable). CONCLUSIONS Remote social capitalization through ICT applications has become an avenue to reduce SIL among LTCF residents. This review examined a social connection approach that will remain relevant and even be fostered after the COVID-19 pandemic. As families remain the main stakeholders of LTCFs, this study's findings could inform policy makers and frontline managers to better shape programs and initiatives to prevent or reduce SIL in LTCFs. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/36269.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Drissa Sia
- Département des sciences infirmières, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Saint-Jérôme, QC, Canada
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17
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Balki E, Holland C, Hayes N. Use and Acceptance of Digital Communication Technology by Older Adults for Social Connectedness During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Mixed Methods Study. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e41535. [PMID: 37531187 PMCID: PMC10433026 DOI: 10.2196/41535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older adults are at higher risk for health issues, including mental health problems. This was especially apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, where older adults were simultaneously more vulnerable to the disease and the mental health concerns created by social distancing. Subsequently, the use of digital communication technology (DCT) became a critical option for maintaining social connectedness in older adults. Prior to the pandemic, the low uptake and use of technology by older adults was an established problem, known as the digital divide. However, not much is known about how this may have changed as a result of the pandemic. OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore how older adults maintained social connectedness through DCT during the pandemic and to understand factors influencing the use and acceptance of DCT. METHODS A mixed methods explorative field study was set up, involving surveys and interviews of 25 community-dwelling older adults (65-88 years old) living in the United Kingdom. The surveys included the internet acceptance questionnaire (based on the Technology Acceptance Model [TAM]); COVID-19 dysfunctional anxiety was captured using the COVID-19 Anxiety Scale (CAS). Background information (demographics, use of technology) was gathered before conducting semistructured interviews. We hypothesized that CAS would affect constructs of TAM and that predictive constructs of TAM would have remained valid during the pandemic. We also posited that there would be unidentified themes outside TAM that impacted the acceptance and use of DCT. We used the quantitative data to guide the semistructured interviews, which were then analyzed through thematic analysis to identify additional themes. RESULTS Correlational analysis showed that CAS influences all constructs of TAM. We also saw that the predictive constructs of TAM, especially the perceived ease of use (PEU) and perceived usefulness (PU), remained valid during the pandemic. Common acceptance-influencing themes were encountered in both quantitative and qualitative analyses, with 3 matching the known constructs of TAM (PU, PEU, and behavioral intention). We identified 2 additional themes affecting acceptance, namely influence of the pandemic (situational context) and privacy and security concerns. DCT use (especially email and videoconferencing use) increased during the pandemic, but the results related to social networking sites were mixed. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic impacted technology acceptance and use by older adults, encouraging their use of certain DCT apps (email and videoconferencing apps, such as WhatsApp). These apps helped insulate them from adverse effects (social isolation and loneliness). Other social networking apps, however, exerted a negative influence, increasing anxiety and a general feeling of negativity. Future studies should maximize older adult agency related to design, privacy, security, and user requirements for development. We also recommend that when studying DCT acceptance for older adults, our additional identified themes should be considered alongside the existing TAM constructs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Balki
- Centre for Ageing and Research, Division of Health, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Carol Holland
- Centre for Ageing and Research, Division of Health, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Niall Hayes
- Nottingham Trent University, The Directorate, Notthingham, United Kingdom
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18
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Wong ELY, Qiu H, Cheung AWL, Leung HHW, Chen FY, Yeoh EK. Association of social isolation with health status among community-dwelling Chinese older adults living with homecare services: a cross-sectional survey in Hong Kong. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1099734. [PMID: 37333567 PMCID: PMC10272830 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1099734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Defined as having few social relationships or infrequent social contact with family, friends, and the community, social isolation is a public health crisis. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of social isolation and explore the association between social isolation and health status among community-dwelling Chinese Older Adults living with homecare services. Methods This is a cross-sectional survey with a structured questionnaire conducted among older adults aged ≥60 in the Central Kowloon District of Hong Kong during 2017-2018. Social isolation was assessed by the Lubben Social Network Scale-6 and a score less than 12 was defined as socially isolated. Six aspects of health status including fall risk, cognitive function, depression, activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), and functional mobility were measured by standardized instruments. Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) was applied to estimate an index to represent the overall health status of the respondents. Multivariate logistic/linear regression models were applied to examine the associations between social isolation and health status after adjusting the sociodemographic characteristics. Results Among the 1,616 participants included in this analysis, the mean age was 80.9 years, 66.3% were female and 41.4% were identified as socially isolated. Compared with the non-isolated group, the socially isolated group had higher proportions of males, divorced or unmarried, ever smoking and drinking, living alone, and living in public housing without religion. After adjusting for confounders, the odds ratios (OR) comparing the socially isolated vs. non-isolated groups were 2.52 (95%CI: 1.79, 3.56) for high fall risk, 1.51 (1.17, 1.94) for cognitive impairment, and 1.78 (1.31, 2.43) for depression. The socially isolated group increased the odds of abnormal ADL, IADL, and functional mobility by 105-150%, and decreased the overall health score by 5.30 (3.42, 7.18). Conclusion We demonstrated the association of social isolation with poorer physical function and mental health and overall health status among the community-dwelling Chinese older adults living with homecare services. These findings provided new knowledge about the association of social isolation with both physical and mental function for daily living even for those receiving an integrated homecare service in the community. It implies that an unmet healthcare need existed when comparing the service scope of the current homecare services in the community. It also highlighted the need for targeted prevention and intervention initiatives among community-dwelling old adults to alleviate social isolation for better health and good functioning in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliza Lai-Yi Wong
- Center for Health Systems and Policy Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hong Qiu
- Center for Health Systems and Policy Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Annie Wai-Ling Cheung
- Center for Health Systems and Policy Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hera Hiu-Wah Leung
- Department of Management Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Frank Youhua Chen
- Department of Management Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Eng-Kiong Yeoh
- Center for Health Systems and Policy Research, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Hussain B, Mirza M, Baines R, Burns L, Stevens S, Asthana S, Chatterjee A. Loneliness and social networks of older adults in rural communities: a narrative synthesis systematic review. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1113864. [PMID: 37255758 PMCID: PMC10225733 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1113864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Loneliness has significant impacts on the health of older adults. Social networks help to improve psychosocial and quality of life outcomes among older adults. A fifth of older adults live in rural communities, where geographic isolation poses challenges to health. The dynamics of social networks of older adults in rural communities has not been explored. Objective To synthesize the literature related to loneliness and social networks of older adults in rural settings. Methods A mixed-methods systematic review was conducted through searching six bibliographic databases to retrieve peer-reviewed literature with no time limits. We performed a methodological assessment of each study using a mixed method quality assessment tool. Findings are synthesized thematically. Results A total of 50 studies (32 quantitative, 15 qualitative, and 3 mixed methods) were included in this review. Studies were conducted in 17 different countries, the majority from China (n = 12), the UK (n = 9), and USA (n = 9). Findings revealed that social networks of older adults consist of family, friends and neighbors and continue to be developed through participation in various physical and social activities such as walking groups and participation in religious events. Social networks offer informational, functional, psychological and social support to older adults. Through their social networks, older adults feel socially connected and cared for. Successful interventions to improve social networks and address loneliness were those developed in groups or one-on-one with the older adults. The key ingredient to the positive impact of these interventions on reducing social isolation and loneliness was the formation of a social connection and regular engagement with the older adults. However, the review did not find any explicitly reported theory or model on which these interventions are based. Conclusion The prevalence of loneliness among older adults in rural areas needs urgent attention. Social network theory and methods can help in developing interventions to address social isolation and loneliness among older adults in rural communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basharat Hussain
- Peninsula School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Mahrukh Mirza
- Peninsula School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Baines
- Peninsula School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Lorna Burns
- Peninsula School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sheena Asthana
- Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research (PIHR), Plymouth, United Kingdom
- Centre for Health Technology, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
- Centre for Coastal Communities, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Arunangsu Chatterjee
- Centre for Health Technology, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
- School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
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Märki-Germann D, Seematter-Bagnoud L, Fustinoni S, Spaltenstein J, Bula C, Henchoz Y. Older people's experience of the partial lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic in Switzerland: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e067167. [PMID: 36963798 PMCID: PMC10039977 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-067167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate older people's experience of a COVID-19 partial lockdown (16 March-11 May 2020) in Lausanne, Switzerland. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Community-dwelling participants of the Lausanne cohort (Lc65+) in 2020, aged 71-86 years (n=2642). DESIGN AND OUTCOME This cross-sectional study was nested within the Lc65+ longitudinal study. A specific COVID-19 questionnaire was sent on 17 April 2020 to evaluate participants' experience of the lockdown (outcome). Multinomial logistic regression models were used to determine the sociodemographic, living environment, health and social factors associated. RESULTS Out of 2642 participants, 67.8% described the lockdown as 'somewhat' difficult (reference group), 21.5% as 'not at all' difficult (positive) and 10.7% as 'very or extremely' difficult (negative). The relative risk of a positive experience was higher in participants living alone (relative risk ratio, RRR=1.93, 95% CI 1.52 to 2.46) or in a house (RRR=1.49, 1.03 to 2.16); lower in those who reported fear of falling (RRR=0.68, 0.54 to 0.86), functional difficulties (RRR=0.78, 0.61 to 0.99), feeling of loneliness (RRR=0.67, 0.49 to 0.91), unfamiliarity with communication technologies (RRR=0.69, 0.52 to 0.91), usual social support (RRR=0.71, 0.50 to 0.93), previous participation in group activities (RRR=0.74, 0.59 to 0.92) and among women (RRR=0.75, 0.59 to 0.95). The relative risk of a negative experience was higher in participants with fear of falling (RRR=1.52, 1.07 to 2.15), and lower in those who had a terrace/garden (RRR=0.66, 0.44 to 0.99) and owned a dog (RRR=0.32, 0.11 to 0.90). CONCLUSIONS Only one in 10 participants experienced the lockdown as very or extremely difficult. Specific interventions targeting vulnerability factors, such as fear of falling, could lessen the impact of any future similar situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphné Märki-Germann
- Department of Geriatrics and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Laurence Seematter-Bagnoud
- Department of Geriatrics and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Fustinoni
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Julia Spaltenstein
- Department of Geriatrics and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christophe Bula
- Department of Geriatrics and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Yves Henchoz
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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21
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Sander M, Dano R, Bieber A, Dammermann A, Fleischer S, Dinand C, Müller M, Möhler R, Schultes K, Köpke S, Dichter MN. Challenges, strategies and consequences from the perspective of German nursing home managers during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic - a qualitative interview study. BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:164. [PMID: 36959576 PMCID: PMC10034912 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-03787-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic reached Germany between March and May 2020. In order to contain the spread of the virus and particularly protect vulnerable people, the government imposed a lockdown in March 2020. In addition to infection control measures, such as hygiene and social distancing requirements, a general ban on access to nursing homes for relatives and external service providers was issued. Methods To investigate the challenges and consequences of the enacted infection prevention measures and specific strategies for nursing homes in Germany, a multicentre cross-sectional qualitative interview study with nursing home managers and ward managers was conducted. Recorded audio data were transcribed, analysed using thematic framework analysis and reflected in peer debriefings. Results Seventy-eight interviews with 40 nursing home managers and 38 ward managers from 43 German nursing homes were conducted. At organisational level, the following six themes were identified: Appointing a multi-professional crisis task force, reorganizing the use of building and spatial structures, continuous adaption and implementation of hygiene plans, adapting staff deployment to dynamically changing demands, managing additional communicative demands and relying on and resorting to informal networks. To deal with the pandemic challenges also six themes can be described for the direct care level: Changed routines, taking over non-nursing tasks, increased medical responsibility, increased documentation demands, promoting social participation and increased communication demands. Also various negative consequences were identified (four themes): Psychological stress, negative emotional consequences, permanent feeling of responsibility and increased potential for conflicts. Positive emotional consequences were also reported (two themes): resources for the challenges and positive emotional consequences for home managers and staff. Conclusions The results of the described challenges, strategies and consequences allow recommendations as basis for possible approaches and successful adaptation processes in nursing home care in the future. In particular, there is a need for local networks to act in a coordinated way and a need for quantitative and qualitative support for nurses, such as staff support as well as advanced nursing practice, to cope with the challenges of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Sander
- grid.6190.e0000 0000 8580 3777Institute of Nursing Science, University of Cologne, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Richard Dano
- grid.6190.e0000 0000 8580 3777Institute of Nursing Science, University of Cologne, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Anja Bieber
- grid.9018.00000 0001 0679 2801Institute for Health and Nursing Science, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Anna Dammermann
- grid.4562.50000 0001 0057 2672Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Nursing Research Unit, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Steffen Fleischer
- grid.9018.00000 0001 0679 2801Institute for Health and Nursing Science, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Claudia Dinand
- grid.412581.b0000 0000 9024 6397Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Martin Müller
- grid.449770.90000 0001 0058 6011Faculty of Applied Health and Social Sciences, Rosenheim Technical University of Applied Sciences, Rosenheim, Germany
- grid.7700.00000 0001 2190 4373Department of Primary Care and Health Services Research, Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ralph Möhler
- grid.411327.20000 0001 2176 9917Institute for Health Services Research and Health Economics, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kristin Schultes
- grid.430588.2Public Health Centre, Department Health Sciences, University of Applied Science, Fulda, Germany
| | - Sascha Köpke
- grid.6190.e0000 0000 8580 3777Institute of Nursing Science, University of Cologne, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Martin N. Dichter
- grid.6190.e0000 0000 8580 3777Institute of Nursing Science, University of Cologne, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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22
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Mavragani A, Miranda A, Garcia M, Carvalho ACD, Costa P, Correia-Neves M, Santos NC. Promoting Digital Proficiency and Health Literacy in Middle-aged and Older Adults Through Mobile Devices With the Workshops for Online Technological Inclusion (OITO) Project: Experimental Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e41873. [PMID: 36753331 PMCID: PMC9947750 DOI: 10.2196/41873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital inclusion and literacy facilitate access to health information and can contribute to self-care behaviors and informed decision-making. However, digital literacy is not an innate skill, but rather requires knowledge acquisition. OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to develop, conduct, and measure the impact, on digital and health literacy, of a digital inclusion program aimed at community dwellers. METHODS The program targeted the recruitment of people aged 55 and older that owned mobile devices with an internet connection in 3 cities in northern Portugal (Paredes de Coura, Guimarães, and Barcelos). The program was titled the Workshops for Online Technological Inclusion (OITO) project and, in each city, was promoted by the coordinator of municipal projects and organized as an in-person 8-workshop program, using mobile devices, smartphones, or tablets. A quasi-experimental design was used with a nonrandomized allocation of participants in each set of 8 workshops. Sociodemographic, health status, and mobile use information were collected at baseline. Digital and health literacy were measured via the Mobile Device Proficiency Questionnaire and the Health Literacy Scale questionnaires, respectively, at baseline (T1), program completion (T2), and a 1-month follow-up (T3). A self-reported measure of autonomy was evaluated at T1 and T2 using a visual scale. RESULTS Most participants were women with primary schooling (up to 4 years) aged between 65 and 74 years and retired. The intervention had an 81% (97/120) recruitment rate, 53% (43/81) adherence, and 94% (67/71) satisfaction rate, with 81 participants completing the entire 8-workshop program. Most participants had owned their mobile device for more than one year (64/81, 79%), were frequent daily users (70/81, 86%), and had received their mobile device from someone else (33/64, 52%). Over 80% (71/81) of the participants who completed the intervention used Android smartphones. At baseline, participants had low baseline scores in digital literacy, but medium-high baseline scores in health literacy. They showed significant improvement in digital literacy at T2 and T3 compared to T1, but without a significant difference between T2 and T3, regardless of sex, age, or schooling. A significant improvement in self-reported autonomy was observed at T3 compared with baseline. Regarding health literacy, no significant differences were found at T2 or T3 compared to the baseline. CONCLUSIONS The feasibility indicators showed that the OITO project methodology had a substantial rate of recruitment and satisfaction. Program participants had significant improvement in digital literacy after 8 workshops and maintained their score 1 month after completing the intervention. There was no significant change in health literacy during the project period.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - André Miranda
- Associação Centro de Medicina P5, School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Miguel Garcia
- Office of Infrastructure and Operations in Information Technology, University of Southern of Santa Catarina, Tubarão, Brazil
| | | | - Patrício Costa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Margarida Correia-Neves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal.,Associação Centro de Medicina P5, School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Nadine Correia Santos
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal.,Associação Centro de Medicina P5, School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
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23
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Leung T, Kwan YH, Yoon S, Goh H, Yee WQ, Tan CS, Low LL. Digital Intergenerational Program to Reduce Loneliness and Social Isolation Among Older Adults: Realist Review. JMIR Aging 2023; 6:e39848. [PMID: 36598801 PMCID: PMC9850285 DOI: 10.2196/39848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a compelling need for an innovative and creative approach to promote social connectedness among older adults to optimize their well-being and quality of life. One possible solution may be through a digital intergenerational program. OBJECTIVE This realist review aimed to identify existing digital intergenerational programs that were used to reduce loneliness or social isolation among older adults and analyze them in terms of strategy, context, mechanisms, and outcomes. METHODS We performed a realist review with an extensive search of published and gray literature. For scholarly literature, we searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO (Ovid), and Social Sciences Citation Index databases for articles published between January 2000 to August 2020. A grey literature search was performed using the Google search engine, and the search was completed in May 2021. We included programs that evaluated digital intergenerational programs for older adults, which described outcomes of loneliness or social isolation. We included quantitative, mixed methods, and qualitative studies, as well as relevant theoretical papers, policy documents, and implementation documents. The studies were appraised based on their relevance and rigor. We synthesized the available evidence from the literature into Strategy-Context-Mechanism-Outcome (S-C-M-O) configurations to better understand what, when, and how programs work. RESULTS A total of 31 documents reporting 27 digital intergenerational programs were reviewed. Our final results identified 4 S-C-M-O configurations. For S-C-M-O configuration 1, we found that for community-dwelling older adults, provision of access to and training in digital technology may increase older adults' self-efficacy in digital devices and therefore increase the use of digital communication with family. In S-C-M-O configuration 2, digital psychosocial support and educational interventions from nurses were found to be useful in reducing loneliness among community-dwelling older adults. In S-C-M-O configuration 3, a video call with a student or family was found to reduce loneliness among older adults residing in long-term residential care facilities. Finally, for S-C-M-O configuration 4, we found that behavioral activation provided through videoconferencing by a lay coach may be useful in reducing loneliness among older adults who are lonely. However, as almost half (11/27, 41%) of the included programs only reported quantitative results, this review focused on screening the discussion section of publications to identify author opinions or any qualitative information to elucidate the mechanisms of how programs work. CONCLUSIONS This review identified the key strategy, context, and mechanism influencing the success of programs that promote intergenerational interaction through digital means. This review revealed that different strategies should be adopted for different groups of older adults (eg, older adults who are lonely, older adults who reside in long-term residential care facilities, and community-dwelling older adults). The S-C-M-O configurations should be considered when designing and implementing digital intergenerational programs for older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yu Heng Kwan
- Centre for Population Health Research and Implementation, SingHealth Regional Health System, SingHealth, Singapore, Singapore.,Health Systems and Services Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Pharmacy, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Internal Medicine Residency, SingHealth residency, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sungwon Yoon
- Centre for Population Health Research and Implementation, SingHealth Regional Health System, SingHealth, Singapore, Singapore.,Health Systems and Services Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hendra Goh
- Health Systems and Services Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wan Qi Yee
- Population Health & Integrated Care Office, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chuen Seng Tan
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lian Leng Low
- Centre for Population Health Research and Implementation, SingHealth Regional Health System, SingHealth, Singapore, Singapore.,Population Health & Integrated Care Office, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Family Medicine & Continuing Care, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.,SingHealth Duke-NUS Family Medicine, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.,Outram Community Hospital, SingHealth Community Hospitals, Singapore, Singapore
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24
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De Luca V, Femminella GD, Patalano R, Formosa V, Lorusso G, Rivetta C, Di Lullo F, Mercurio L, Rea T, Salvatore E, Korkmaz Yaylagul N, Apostolo J, Silva RC, Dantas C, van Staalduinen WH, Liotta G, Iaccarino G, Triassi M, Illario M. Assessment Tools of Biopsychosocial Frailty Dimensions in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Narrative Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16050. [PMID: 36498125 PMCID: PMC9739796 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192316050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Frailty is a complex interplay between several factors, including physiological changes in ageing, multimorbidities, malnutrition, living environment, genetics, and lifestyle. Early screening for frailty risk factors in community-dwelling older people allows for preventive interventions on the clinical and social determinants of frailty, which allows adverse events to be avoided. By conducting a narrative review of the literature employing the International Narrative Systematic Assessment tool, the authors aimed to develop an updated framework for the main measurement tools to assess frailty risks in older adults, paying attention to use in the community and primary care settings. This search focused on the biopsychosocial domains of frailty that are covered in the SUNFRAIL tool. The study selected 178 reviews (polypharmacy: 20; nutrition: 13; physical activity: 74; medical visits: 0; falls: 39; cognitive decline: 12; loneliness: 15; social support: 5; economic constraints: 0) published between January 2010 and December 2021. Within the selected reviews, 123 assessment tools were identified (polypharmacy: 15; nutrition: 15; physical activity: 25; medical visits: 0; falls: 26; cognitive decline: 18; loneliness: 9; social support: 15; economic constraints: 0). The narrative review allowed us to evaluate assessment tools of frailty domains to be adopted for multidimensional health promotion and prevention interventions in community and primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo De Luca
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Grazia Daniela Femminella
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Roberta Patalano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Valeria Formosa
- Specializzazione in Igiene e Medicina Preventiva, Università degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata, 00133 Roma, Italy
| | - Grazia Lorusso
- Specializzazione in Igiene e Medicina Preventiva, Università degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata, 00133 Roma, Italy
| | - Cristiano Rivetta
- Specializzazione in Igiene e Medicina Preventiva, Università degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata, 00133 Roma, Italy
| | - Federica Di Lullo
- Specializzazione in Igiene e Medicina Preventiva, Università degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata, 00133 Roma, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Mercurio
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Teresa Rea
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Elena Salvatore
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Avanzate, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Joao Apostolo
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA:E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), Avenida Bissaya Barreto, 3004-011 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rosa Carla Silva
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA:E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), Avenida Bissaya Barreto, 3004-011 Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | | | - Giuseppe Liotta
- Dipartimento di Biomedicina e Prevenzione, Università degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata, 00133 Roma, Italy
| | - Guido Iaccarino
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Avanzate, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Maria Triassi
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Maddalena Illario
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
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25
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Pohl JS, Bell JF, Tancredi DJ, Woods NF. Social isolation and health among family caregivers of older adults: Less community participation may indicate poor self-reported health. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e6175-e6184. [PMID: 36205453 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.14054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Social isolation is associated with adverse health outcomes in the general older adult population, but little is known about indicators of social isolation in family caregiver populations. This cross-sectional study examined the prevalence of social isolation in the 2015 National Survey of Caregiving. Using the Convoy Model of social relations, a life-course social support framework, we also examined associations between social isolation and caregiver self-reported health. Using multiple ordinal logistic regression models, we examined social isolation - operationalised with a five-item summative measure and, alternatively, with each social isolation item - as a predictor of self-reported general health status. On the dichotomised summative measure, 24.74% (n = 2,175) were more isolated. Younger caregivers were more isolated (M = 56.77 years, SE = 0.76) compared with those who were not (M = 60.86 years, SE = 0.41). Self-reported general health was as follows: 4.93% poor; 15.67% fair; 25.62% good; 34.81% very good and 18.97% excellent. Less social isolation was associated with higher odds of better self-reported health (Adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.19; CI = 1.05-1.35). Of the individual social isolation indicators, only a lack of community participation was associated with higher odds of worse self-reported health (AOR = 1.57; CI = 1.25-1.97). Social isolation and particularly community participation were associated with caregiver health status. It may be necessary for healthcare providers to consider these factors in caregiver health assessments. Future research is recommended to understand the consequences of various social isolation indicators in diverse samples including younger caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet S Pohl
- University of California Davis Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, Sacramento, California, USA
- Arizona State University Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Janice F Bell
- University of California Davis Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Daniel J Tancredi
- University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Nancy F Woods
- University of Washington School of Nursing, Seattle, WA, USA
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26
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Connolly M, Duffy A, Ryder M, Timmins F. 'Safety First': Residents, Families, and Healthcare Staff Experiences of COVID-19 Restrictions at an Irish Residential Care Centre. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14002. [PMID: 36360879 PMCID: PMC9656290 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and the need to stem the transmission and protect the most vulnerable in society led to infection control restrictions effectively locking down an entire country. These restrictions were also imposed on residential care settings for older people, initially in March 2020, and subsequently at varying times throughout the year that followed. Furthermore, the restrictions led to the suspension in all visiting to residents expect in exceptional circumstances and on compassionate grounds. The purpose of this research study was to develop an understanding of the experience of residents, their families, and carers in an Irish residential care setting during the COVID-19 lockdown. Data were collected in a residential care centre for older people in Ireland, using semi-structured interviews of residents, family members and staff. Interviews were conducted in person for residents and virtually for family members and staff. In total 29 people were interviewed. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke's thematic data analysis approach. Four themes and three subthemes were developed from the data. The main themes were 'difficult but safe', 'communication', 'staff going above and beyond', 'what about the future?' Residents, families and staff of the residential care setting had to manage and cope with the challenges of the restrictions imposed during COVID-19 lockdown. This study highlighted the negative impacts of visiting restrictions on staff, residents and their family members during the COVID-19 lockdown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Connolly
- School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
- Education & Research Centre, Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services, Harold’s Cross, D6W RY72 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anita Duffy
- Education & Research Centre, Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services, Harold’s Cross, D6W RY72 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary Ryder
- School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Fiona Timmins
- School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
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27
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Acosta Benito MÁ, García Pliego RA, Baena Díez JM, Gorroñogoitia Iturbe A, Herreros Herreros Y, De Hoyos Alonso MDC, Magán Tapia P, Martin Lesende I. [PAPPS update on older people 2022]. Aten Primaria 2022; 54 Suppl 1:102438. [PMID: 36435582 PMCID: PMC9705221 DOI: 10.1016/j.aprim.2022.102438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This article examines the latest available evidence on preventive activities in the elderly, including sleep disorders, physical exercise, deprescription, cognitive disorders and dementias, nutrition, social isolation and frailty.
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28
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Döring N, Conde M, Brandenburg K, Broll W, Gross HM, Werner S, Raake A. Can Communication Technologies Reduce Loneliness and Social Isolation in Older People? A Scoping Review of Reviews. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191811310. [PMID: 36141581 PMCID: PMC9517063 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness and social isolation in older age are considered major public health concerns and research on technology-based solutions is growing rapidly. This scoping review of reviews aims to summarize the communication technologies (CTs) (review question RQ1), theoretical frameworks (RQ2), study designs (RQ3), and positive effects of technology use (RQ4) present in the research field. METHODS A comprehensive multi-disciplinary, multi-database literature search was conducted. Identified reviews were analyzed according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework. A total of N = 28 research reviews that cover 248 primary studies spanning 50 years were included. RESULTS The majority of the included reviews addressed general internet and computer use (82% each) (RQ1). Of the 28 reviews, only one (4%) worked with a theoretical framework (RQ2) and 26 (93%) covered primary studies with quantitative-experimental designs (RQ3). The positive effects of technology use were shown in 55% of the outcome measures for loneliness and 44% of the outcome measures for social isolation (RQ4). CONCLUSION While research reviews show that CTs can reduce loneliness and social isolation in older people, causal evidence is limited and insights on innovative technologies such as augmented reality systems are scarce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Döring
- Media Psychology and Media Design Group, Technische Universität Ilmenau, 98693 Ilmenau, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Melisa Conde
- Media Psychology and Media Design Group, Technische Universität Ilmenau, 98693 Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Karlheinz Brandenburg
- Electronic Media Technology Group, Technische Universität Ilmenau, 98693 Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Broll
- Virtual Worlds and Digital Games Group, Technische Universität Ilmenau, 98693 Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Horst-Michael Gross
- Neuroinformatics and Cognitive Robotics Lab, Technische Universität Ilmenau, 98693 Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Stephan Werner
- Electronic Media Technology Group, Technische Universität Ilmenau, 98693 Ilmenau, Germany
| | - Alexander Raake
- Audiovisual Technology Group, Technische Universität Ilmenau, 98693 Ilmenau, Germany
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Mikocka-Walus A, Skvarc D, de Acosta MB, Evertsz FB, Bernstein CN, Burisch J, Ferreira N, Gearry RB, Graff LA, Jedel S, Mokrowiecka A, Stengel A, Trindade IA, van Tilburg MAL, Knowles SR. Exploring the Relationship Between Self-Isolation and Distress Among People with Gastrointestinal Disorders During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2022; 29:654-665. [PMID: 34494184 PMCID: PMC8423336 DOI: 10.1007/s10880-021-09818-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the association between perceived isolation and symptoms of distress in people with GI disorders at the time of the pandemic; and to examine factors which moderate this relationship. This online cross-sectional survey was advertised in May-September 2020 via patient organisations and associated social media. Overall, 831 people (82% female, mean age 49 years) from 27 countries participated. A significant relationship between social isolation and psychological distress was noted (r = .525, p < .001). GI symptoms moderated the association between isolation and distress (B = .047, t = 2.47, p = .015). Interventions targeting these factors may help to reduce distress in people with GI disorders at the time of major stressors such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Skvarc
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Manuel Barreiro de Acosta
- Department of Gastroenterology, IBD Unit, University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Floor Bennebroek Evertsz
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Johan Burisch
- Medical Division, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, GastrounitHvidovre, Denmark
| | - Nuno Ferreira
- Department of Social Sciences, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Richard B Gearry
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Lesley A Graff
- Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Sharon Jedel
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anna Mokrowiecka
- Department of Digestive Tract Diseases, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Andreas Stengel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Inês A Trindade
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention (CINEICC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Miranda A L van Tilburg
- College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Simon R Knowles
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
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30
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Matteucci I. Sport, physical activity and social health in older adults. Caring with technology in the COVID-19 pandemic. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW FOR THE SOCIOLOGY OF SPORT 2022; 57:960-979. [PMID: 36065458 PMCID: PMC9301356 DOI: 10.1177/10126902211045675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this paper was to photograph this precise moment in history, focusing on the situation of older adults during the COVID-19 health emergency in Northern Italy. In particular, we analysed the relationship between social networks and social support, sport and recreational activity, and the use of communications technologies in December 2020. We investigated and discussed such use of technologies, wondering if and how it helped to compensate for the diminishment in social health, usually gained trough social interactions and the practice of sport and physical activity. We examined how reduction of mobility, social distancing and isolation measures imposed by the government to reduce the spread of COVID-19, affected the living conditions of the older adults, in particular their social health, and the level of sport and physical activity they were engaged in. We collected data through interviews with the subjects, assessing their social networks, the perceived social support provided by their family members, friends and caregivers, and the level of sport and physical activity they were engaged in. Moreover, we analysed the impact of technological communications devices, which were employed to help older adults to maintain their relationships with the outside world and to preserve their active life. The interview questions were formulated based on the Lubben Social Network Scale-Revised (LSNS-R), the short version of the Social Support List (SSL12-I) for the elderly and the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE). A relationship was found between the social health related to physical activity of the older adults subjects during the COVID-19 emergency and the use of communications technologies, which played a role in mitigating the impact of the crisis on their social health by helping them to keep physically and socially active.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Matteucci
- Ivana Matteucci, Department of
Communication Science, Humanistic and International Studies (DISCUI), Carlo Bo
University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy.
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31
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Welch V, Ghogomu ET, Barbeau VI, Boulton E, Boutin S, Haitas N, Kneale D, Salzwedel DM, Simard R, Herbert P, Mikton C. PROTOCOL: Digital interventions to reduce social isolation and loneliness in older adults: An evidence and gap map. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2022; 18:e1260. [PMID: 36909878 PMCID: PMC9233308 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
This is the protocol for a Campbell systematic review. The objectives are as follows: the aim is to map available evidence on the effects of digital interventions to mitigate social isolation and/or loneliness in older adults in all settings except hospital settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Welch
- Methods CentreBruyere Research InstituteOttawaCanada
| | | | | | - Elisabeth Boulton
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health SciencesUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | | | | | - Dylan Kneale
- Social Science Research Unit, EPPI‐Centre, UCL Institute of EducationUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Douglas M. Salzwedel
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and TherapeuticsUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverCanada
| | | | - Paul Herbert
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de MontréalMontrealCanada
| | - Christopher Mikton
- Department of Social Determinants of HealthWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
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32
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Fu Z, Yan M, Meng C. The effectiveness of remote delivered intervention for loneliness reduction in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Psychol 2022; 13:935544. [PMID: 35967719 PMCID: PMC9372715 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.935544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundRemotely delivered intervention is widely applied to loneliness treatment in older adults, but the effect is controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of remotely delivered intervention on loneliness using a systematic review and meta-analysis.MethodsThe PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, CINAHL (EBSCO), PsycINFO (EBSCO) databases were searched for studies, the search ended on 7 July 2021. Thirteen randomized controlled trials of remotely delivered intervention compared with usual care, brief contact, or no intervention for loneliness were included. A random-effects model measured estimation of loneliness reduction. Furthermore, standardized mean differences (SMDs), 95% confidence intervals (CIs), publication bias, and heterogeneity were calculated. Subgroup analysis was used to explore the factors that might affect the treatment effects.ResultsThe evidence of remotely delivered intervention on loneliness reduction was certain (SMD = −0.41 [95% CI, −0.70 to −0.13]). Media subgroup analysis supported the effectiveness of intervention delivered by video call (SMD = −0.54 [95% CI, −0.83 to −0.25]); treatment strategy subgroup analysis found evidence to support the effectiveness of increasing social support and maladaptive social cognition treatment strategy (SMD = −0.47 [95% CI, −0.77 to −0.18] and SMD = −1.04 [95% CI, −1.98 to −0.10], respectively); participants subgroup analysis shown the effectiveness of intervention for older adults living in LTC and social isolation (SMD = −1.40 [95% CI, −2.43 to −0.36] and SMD = −0.55 [95% CI, −0.74 to −0.36], respectively); group format subgroup analysis testified the effectiveness of intervention carried out in individual format (SMD = −0.39 [95% CI, −0.71 to −0.07]); measurement time points subgroup analysis found the positive effect of intervention at 3 months and 3 to 6 months stage (SMD = −0.33 [95% CI, −0.52 to −0.14] and SMD = −0.32 [95% CI, −0.57 to −0.07], respectively). Significant publication bias was detected (p < 0.05), and the heterogeneity of the studies was substantial.ConclusionThis systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrate that remotely delivered intervention can reduce loneliness in older adults, and it appears to be affected by media type, treatment strategy, participants characteristics, group format, and measurement time points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengke Fu
- Department of Computational Communication, School of Media and Law, Ningbo Tech University, Ningbo, China
- *Correspondence: Zhengke Fu,
| | - Mengsi Yan
- Department of Japanese Language Study, School of Humanity, Ningbo University of Finance and Economics, Ningbo, China
| | - Chao Meng
- Department of Computational Communication, School of Media and Law, Ningbo Tech University, Ningbo, China
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Dürst AV, Graf CE, Ruggiero C, Zekry D, Boccardi V, Monney L, Joss I, Vuilloud K, Vespignani G, Bosshard W, Mecocci P, Bula CJ, D'Amelio P. Fighting social isolation in times of pandemic COVID-19: the role of video calls for older hospitalized patients. Aging Clin Exp Res 2022; 34:2245-2253. [PMID: 35794314 PMCID: PMC9261146 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-022-02188-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness and social isolation are associated with anxiety and psychological discomfort, especially amongst the oldest and fragile persons. AIMS SILVER evaluates the acceptance of video calls by old hospitalized patients and their relatives during the ban on visits due to the COVID-19. Moreover, SILVER evaluates if the use of different communication technology is associated with different outcomes in terms of anxiety, fear of self and of others' death and mood. METHODS SILVER is an observational multicentre study. Patients hospitalized in two geriatric units in Switzerland and in one orthogeriatric unit in Italy and their relatives were enrolled. Participants can freely choose to use phone or video calls and were evaluated over a week. We measured anxiety, fear of death and mood at baseline and at the end of the study with standard scales. The use of video or phone calls was associated to a change in these parameters by two-way ANOVA for repeated measures. RESULTS Sixty-four patients and relatives were enrolled, 26.5% used phone calls and 73.5% video calls. The use of video calls was associated with a reduction in anxiety and fear of death in patients and relatives as compared to participants using phone calls. DISCUSSION Old patients and their relatives accepted and appreciated the use of video calls during hospitalization; moreover, participant using video calls appears to be less anxious and less afraid of death. CONCLUSIONS Video calls may be a useful communication tool for hospitalized older patients to keep social relationships with relatives and reduce their anxiety and fear of death. TRIAL REGISTRATION Retrospectively registered on 1st September 2021 in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05000099).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Véronique Dürst
- Service of Geriatric Medicine and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, University of Lausanne Hospital (CHUV), Mont-Paisible 16, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christophe E Graf
- Service of Geriatrics and Rehabilitation, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Carmelinda Ruggiero
- Geriatric and Orthogeriatric Units, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital of Perugia, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Dina Zekry
- Division of Internal Medicine for the Aged, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Virginia Boccardi
- Geriatric and Orthogeriatric Units, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital of Perugia, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Lauretta Monney
- Service of Geriatric Medicine and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, University of Lausanne Hospital (CHUV), Mont-Paisible 16, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Isaline Joss
- Service of Geriatric Medicine and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, University of Lausanne Hospital (CHUV), Mont-Paisible 16, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Karine Vuilloud
- Service of Geriatrics and Rehabilitation, Department of Rehabilitation and Geriatrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Giulia Vespignani
- Geriatric and Orthogeriatric Units, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital of Perugia, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Wanda Bosshard
- Service of Geriatric Medicine and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, University of Lausanne Hospital (CHUV), Mont-Paisible 16, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Patrizia Mecocci
- Geriatric and Orthogeriatric Units, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital of Perugia, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy.,Division of Clinical Geriatrics, NVS Department, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christophe J Bula
- Service of Geriatric Medicine and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, University of Lausanne Hospital (CHUV), Mont-Paisible 16, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Patrizia D'Amelio
- Service of Geriatric Medicine and Geriatric Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, University of Lausanne Hospital (CHUV), Mont-Paisible 16, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Yang C, Lai DWL, Sun Y, Ma CY, Chau AKC. Mobile Application Use and Loneliness among Older Adults in the Digital Age: Insights from a Survey in Hong Kong during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19137656. [PMID: 35805316 PMCID: PMC9265966 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19137656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Existing literature on the associations between use of mobile applications (i.e., mobile apps) and loneliness among older adults (OAs) has been mainly conducted before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since mobile apps have been increasingly used by OAs during the pandemic, subsequent effects on social and emotional loneliness need updated investigation. This paper examines the relationship between mobile app use and loneliness among Hong Kong’s OAs during the pandemic. In our research, 364 OAs with current use experience of mobile apps were interviewed through a questionnaire survey conducted during July and August 2021, which assessed the use frequency and duration of 14 mobile app types and levels of emotional and social loneliness. The survey illustrated communication (e.g., WhatsApp) and information apps were the most commonly used. Emotional loneliness was associated with the use of video entertainment (frequency and duration), instant communication (duration), and information apps (duration). Association between video entertainment apps’ use and emotional loneliness was stronger among older and less educated OAs. Our findings highlight the distinctive relationships between different types of apps and loneliness among Hong Kong’s OAs during the pandemic, which warrant further exploration via research into post-pandemic patterns and comparative studies in other regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Yang
- Department of Geography, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong;
| | - Daniel W. L. Lai
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong;
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Building and Real Estate, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong;
- Research Institute for Land and Space, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Chun-Yin Ma
- Department of Geography, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong;
- Correspondence:
| | - Anson Kai Chun Chau
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong;
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35
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Lazzari C, Rabottini M. COVID-19, loneliness, social isolation and risk of dementia in older people: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the relevant literature. Int J Psychiatry Clin Pract 2022; 26:196-207. [PMID: 34369248 DOI: 10.1080/13651501.2021.1959616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES During the COVID-19 lockdown, social isolation and feelings of loneliness (SIFL) in the older population have increased, and they can be a risk of dementia, especially in vulnerable older people. The current research is a systematic review meta-analysis of the studies that approach the risk of dementia in older people with SIFL. METHODS The ten studies selected for meta-analysis utilised an opportunistic sample of older people in the community from age 50 to above with no dementia and enrolment. The populations consisted of cohorts of an average of 8,239 people, followed for a mean period of 6.41 years. Random effect meta-analysis summarised the Cox Proportional Hazard Ratios and Relative Risks of the individual studies. RESULTS Results of the meta-analysis show that in older people, the risk of developing dementia because of the impact of prolonged loneliness and social isolation is about 49 to 60% [HR/HR = 1.49; CI95=1.37-1.61] higher than in those who are not lonely and socially isolated. CONCLUSION The biopsychosocial model of dementia supports the need for more integrated social programs and reduced risks for the older persons who, during the COVID-19 lockdown, have suffered from deprivation of support from primary carers and restricted social interactions.KeypointsDuring the COVID-19 lockdown, social isolation and feelings of loneliness in the general population have increased.Older persons are more vulnerable to social isolation and feelings of loneliness (SIFL).SIFL in older people has been associated with an increased risk of dementia.The current study's findings suggest the need to improve healthcare policies to reduce the impact of SIFL in older persons during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Lazzari
- Department of Psychiatry, International Centre for Healthcare and Medical Education, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Rabottini
- Department of Psychiatry, International Centre for Healthcare and Medical Education, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Toh G, Pearce E, Vines J, Ikhtabi S, Birken M, Pitman A, Johnson S. Digital interventions for subjective and objective social isolation among individuals with mental health conditions: a scoping review. BMC Psychiatry 2022; 22:331. [PMID: 35549899 PMCID: PMC9098213 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-022-03889-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social isolation encompasses subjective and objective concepts. Both are associated with negative health consequences and are more prevalent among people with mental health problems than among the general population. To alleviate social isolation, digital interventions have potential as accessible alternatives or adjuncts to face-to-face interventions. This scoping review aimed to describe the types of digital interventions evaluated for feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness in alleviating social isolation among individuals with mental health problems, and to present an overview of the quantitative evidence yielded to inform future intervention design. METHODS We searched five electronic databases for quantitative and mixed methods studies published between January 2000 and July 2020. Studies were included if they evaluated digital interventions for individuals with mental health conditions, had subjective and/or objective social isolation as their primary outcome, or as one of their outcomes if no primary outcome was specified. Feasibility studies were included if feasibility outcomes were the primary outcomes and social isolation was among their secondary outcomes. A narrative synthesis was conducted to present our findings. The protocol was registered on Open Science Framework (doi: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/CNX8A ). RESULTS Thirty-two studies were included for our review: 16 feasibility studies, seven single-group studies and nine effectiveness trials. There was great variation in the interventions, study designs and sample populations. Interventions included web-based programmes, phone-based programmes, blended interventions, socially assistive robots and virtual reality interventions. Many were feasibility studies, or otherwise not fully powered to detect an effect if one were present, thus preventing clear conclusions about clinical effectiveness. Satisfactory feasibility outcomes indicated potential for future trials to assess these interventions. CONCLUSION Our scoping review identified a range of digital approaches utilized to alleviate social isolation among individuals with mental health disorders. Conclusions regarding clinical effectiveness cannot be reached due to variability of approaches and lack of large-scale randomized controlled trials. To make clear recommendations for digital social isolation interventions, future research needs to be based on rigorous methods and larger samples. Future studies should also focus on utilizing theory-driven approaches and improving existing approaches to advance the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gigi Toh
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1W 7NF, UK.
| | - Eiluned Pearce
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1W 7NF, UK
| | - John Vines
- School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Crichton St, Newington, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sarah Ikhtabi
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1W 7NF, UK
| | - Mary Birken
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1W 7NF, UK
| | - Alexandra Pitman
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1W 7NF, UK
- Camden and Islington National Health Service Foundation Trust, St Pancras Hospital, St Pancras Way, London, NW1 0PE, UK
| | - Sonia Johnson
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1W 7NF, UK.
- Camden and Islington National Health Service Foundation Trust, St Pancras Hospital, St Pancras Way, London, NW1 0PE, UK.
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Borelli WV, Xavier LDL, Ornell F, Schuch JB, Von Diemen L. The hidden stigma of aging and COVID-19: aggravating factors and strategies to mitigate the impact of the pandemic in older adults, a text mining analysis. Aging Ment Health 2022; 26:881-889. [PMID: 33949899 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2021.1910793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify factors associated with mental health of older adults during the pandemic and to provide strategies to mitigate their psychosocial impact in the elderly. METHOD An integrative text mining analysis in Medline was performed to identify studies on the mental health of older adults during the pandemic. Subsequently, statistical topic modeling was performed to identify the most prevalent terms and topics discussed in included studies. RESULTS A total of 29 studies were retrieved until July 1st 2020, including a majority of letters (12 studies) and commentaries (8 studies). The most frequent terms overall were: loneliness (n = 137), support (n = 132), home (n = 102), suicide (n = 96) and help (n = 94). The most prevalent terms were then divided in five topics: home (33%), suicide (32%), apps (15%), loneliness (12%) and physical activity (9%). Additionally, a section focused on low- and middle-income countries was included. A summary of strategies to mitigate the effects of pandemic in mental health of older adults was also provided. CONCLUSION These factors demonstrate the importance of developing strategies for psychosocial support that take into consideration the particularities of the elderly. Different levels of care are immediately necessary to diminish the devastating impact of the pandemic in the mental health of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura de Lima Xavier
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Felipe Ornell
- Center for Drug and Alcohol Research, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psiquiatria e Ciências Do Comportamento, Departamento de Psiquiatria e Medicina Legal, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Bohrer Schuch
- Center for Drug and Alcohol Research, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Lisia Von Diemen
- Center for Drug and Alcohol Research, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Boehlen FH, Kusch MKP, Reich P, Wurmbach VS, Seidling HM, Wild B. [Experiences of older multimorbid persons during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study]. Z Gerontol Geriatr 2022; 55:216-222. [PMID: 35384511 PMCID: PMC8984670 DOI: 10.1007/s00391-022-02055-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE The COVID-19 pandemic and the accompanying preventive measures have shaped social life in unexpected ways. Because older persons with multiple chronic conditions have a high risk of a severe medical outcome, it has been strongly recommended that social contacts be curtailed in order to minimize risks of infection. While this appears to be alarming from a psychosocial point of view, it has been shown that older persons exhibit a high degree of equanimity and a good ability to cope with the crisis. The aim of the study was to describe the attitudes of multimorbid older people to the pandemic, their social contacts and their experiences with medical care. MATERIAL AND METHODS This cross-sectional qualitative survey was based on 21 semi-structured short interviews of older patients with multiple chronic conditions during inpatient health care, at 4 different points in time: July 2020, September 2020, November 2020 and January 2021. The data were analyzed by qualitative content analysis. RESULTS The statements of 21 participants (aged 58-88 years) were assessed. Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic it became apparent that participants experienced the pandemic differently, both from an individual perspective and over time. While high infection rates were accompanied by serious concerns about health, periods of moderate infection risk were dominated by worry about social changes. In older persons there was a great sense of acceptance of the preventive measures. CONCLUSION Our study exemplarily illustrates the attitudes and concerns of older persons who suffer from multiple chronic conditions over the course of the pandemic. Our data show that older persons reacted with equanimity to the novel medical and social circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- F H Boehlen
- Klinik für Allgemeine Innere Medizin und Psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120, Heidelberg, Deutschland.
| | - M K P Kusch
- Abteilung Klinische Pharmakologie und Pharmakoepidemiologie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Deutschland
- Kooperationseinheit Klinische Pharmazie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Deutschland
| | - P Reich
- Klinik für Allgemeine Innere Medizin und Psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120, Heidelberg, Deutschland
| | - V S Wurmbach
- Abteilung Klinische Pharmakologie und Pharmakoepidemiologie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Deutschland
- Kooperationseinheit Klinische Pharmazie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Deutschland
| | - H M Seidling
- Abteilung Klinische Pharmakologie und Pharmakoepidemiologie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Deutschland
- Kooperationseinheit Klinische Pharmazie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Deutschland
| | - B Wild
- Klinik für Allgemeine Innere Medizin und Psychosomatik, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120, Heidelberg, Deutschland
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Van Beek M, Patulny R. 'The threat is in all of us': Perceptions of loneliness and divided communities in urban and rural areas during COVID-19. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 50:1531-1548. [PMID: 34662446 PMCID: PMC8657355 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.22732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Loneliness is becoming recognised as an important social issue with health and well-being consequences. The recent and ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has likely impacted loneliness through increased social isolation, though the effects may vary across urban and rural locations, where the dynamics of social capital, community cohesion and community divide are likely to differ. This paper consequently examines the different and compounding impacts of isolating disasters, such as bushfires and pandemics, on social capital and loneliness in urban and rural areas of Australia. This article compares experiences of loneliness in rural/regional and urban areas of Australia moving from the aftermath of the 2019-2020 bushfires into the COVID-19 pandemic. Semi-structured interviews provide a complex insight into how loneliness is experienced across different locations. The key findings included a higher sense of social divide exacerbating loneliness in rural communities, higher levels of loneliness among participants who lived alone in either area. It was concluded that loneliness was experienced extensively among those who were single and/or lived alone, regardless of their geographical location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison Van Beek
- Faculty of Law, Humanities and the ArtsUniversity of WollongongWollongongNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Roger Patulny
- Faculty of Law, Humanities and the ArtsUniversity of WollongongWollongongNew South WalesAustralia
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Thangavel G, Memedi M, Hedström K. Customized Information and Communication Technology for Reducing Social Isolation and Loneliness Among Older Adults: Scoping Review. JMIR Ment Health 2022; 9:e34221. [PMID: 35254273 PMCID: PMC8938833 DOI: 10.2196/34221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advancements in science and various technologies have resulted in people having access to better health care, a good quality of life, and better economic situations, enabling humans to live longer than ever before. Research shows that the problems of loneliness and social isolation are common among older adults, affecting psychological and physical health. Information and communication technology (ICT) plays an important role in alleviating social isolation and loneliness. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review is to explore ICT solutions for reducing social isolation or loneliness among older adults, the purpose of ICT solutions, and the evaluation focus of these solutions. This study particularly focuses on customized ICT solutions that either are designed from scratch or are modifications of existing off-the-shelf products that cater to the needs of older adults. METHODS A scoping literature review was conducted. A search across 7 databases, including ScienceDirect, Association for Computing Machinery, PubMed, IEEE Xplore, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science, was performed, targeting ICT solutions for reducing and managing social isolation and loneliness among older adults. Articles published in English from 2010 to 2020 were extracted and analyzed. RESULTS From the review of 39 articles, we identified 5 different purposes of customized ICT solutions focusing on reducing social isolation and loneliness. These were social communication, social participation, a sense of belonging, companionship, and feelings of being seen. The mapping of purposes of ICT solutions with problems found among older adults indicates that increasing social communication and social participation can help reduce social isolation problems, whereas fulfilling emotional relationships and feeling valued can reduce feelings of loneliness. In terms of customized ICT solution types, we found the following seven different categories: social network, messaging services, video chat, virtual spaces or classrooms with messaging capabilities, robotics, games, and content creation and management. Most of the included studies (30/39, 77%) evaluated the usability and acceptance aspects, and few studies (11/39, 28%) focused on loneliness or social isolation outcomes. CONCLUSIONS This review highlights the importance of discussing and managing social isolation and loneliness as different but related concepts and emphasizes the need for future research to use suitable outcome measures for evaluating ICT solutions based on the problem. Even though a wide range of customized ICT solutions have been developed, future studies need to explore the recent emerging technologies, such as the Internet of Things and augmented or virtual reality, to tackle social isolation and loneliness among older adults. Furthermore, future studies should consider evaluating social isolation or loneliness while developing customized ICT solutions to provide more robust data on the effectiveness of the solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gomathi Thangavel
- Centre for Empirical Research on Information Systems, Örebro University School of Business, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Mevludin Memedi
- Centre for Empirical Research on Information Systems, Örebro University School of Business, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Karin Hedström
- Centre for Empirical Research on Information Systems, Örebro University School of Business, Örebro, Sweden
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People over 65 Years Old in Social Isolation: Description of an Effective Community Intervention in the City of Madrid (Spain). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052665. [PMID: 35270358 PMCID: PMC8910530 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Loneliness and social isolation in the elderly population can be shown to be a significant independent risk factor for several conditions, such as poor health behaviours, physical health problems and psychiatric conditions. Although, in the last 20 years, several interventions have been developed to reduce the impact of social isolation and loneliness on the health of older people. However, only a small proportion of these interventions are effective. This study aims to describe the components of the Psychological Support Service for Socially Isolated Elderly People (PSIE), in addition to analysing the effectiveness of a community intervention based on an outreach strategy to combat situations of social isolation in the elderly population. The sample consisted of 63 people over 65 years of age from the city of Madrid (Spain), detected by the socio-health services as people at risk of social isolation. Sociodemographic, mental health, health and psychosocial functioning, global functioning, disability and socio-sanitary needs were evaluated with observational scales. Descriptive statistics were calculated for sociodemographic and mental health variables. An analysis was carried out to study the possible influence of gender in the initial sample on the different variables assessed, using Chi-squared and Student’s t-tests for independent samples, with measures of effect size in each case. A study of the effectiveness of PSIE was carried out with an analysis of pre- and post-treatment measures. A Student’s t-test was used for related samples, as well as the effect size of Cohen’s d statistic. For the assessment of the possible influence of gender on the results of the intervention, a 2 × 2 repeated-measures ANOVA (pre-/post-measures × gender) was conducted. Regarding mental health, 65.2% of the sample presented symptoms compatible with a severe mental disorder, the most frequent being psychotic disorder (22.7%), alcohol use disorder (16.7%), personality disorder (15.2%), anxiety disorders (10.4%) and mood disorders (10.4%). The gender variable does not seem to have an influence on any of the outcome measures studied. The results of the effectiveness study indicate that the PSIE is an intervention programme that serves to improve the scores of people in the sample in all variables that the programme studied. Some of the components of PSIE that could explain its effectiveness are individualized interventions, with a home-based approach by professionals, serving as a link between the older person and the normalized social-sanitary network. Further research is required to provide more robust data on the effectiveness of interventions.
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Site A, Lohan ES, Jolanki O, Valkama O, Hernandez RR, Latikka R, Alekseeva D, Vasudevan S, Afolaranmi S, Ometov A, Oksanen A, Martinez Lastra J, Nurmi J, Fernandez FN. Managing Perceived Loneliness and Social-Isolation Levels for Older Adults: A Survey with Focus on Wearables-Based Solutions. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:s22031108. [PMID: 35161852 PMCID: PMC8839843 DOI: 10.3390/s22031108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
As an inevitable process, the number of older adults is increasing in many countries worldwide. Two of the main problems that society is being confronted with more and more, in this respect, are the inter-related aspects of feelings of loneliness and social isolation among older adults. In particular, the ongoing COVID-19 crisis and its associated restrictions have exacerbated the loneliness and social-isolation problems. This paper is first and foremost a comprehensive survey of loneliness monitoring and management solutions, from the multidisciplinary perspective of technology, gerontology, socio-psychology, and urban built environment. In addition, our paper also investigates machine learning-based technological solutions with wearable-sensor data, suitable to measure, monitor, manage, and/or diminish the levels of loneliness and social isolation, when one also considers the constraints and characteristics coming from social science, gerontology, and architecture/urban built environments points of view. Compared to the existing state of the art, our work is unique from the cross-disciplinary point of view, because our authors' team combines the expertise from four distinct domains, i.e., gerontology, social psychology, architecture, and wireless technology in addressing the two inter-related problems of loneliness and social isolation in older adults. This work combines a cross-disciplinary survey of the literature in the four aforementioned domains with a proposed wearable-based technological solution, introduced first as a generic framework and, then, exemplified through a simple proof of concept with dummy data. As the main findings, we provide a comprehensive view on challenges and solutions in utilizing various technologies, particularly those carried by users, also known as wearables, to measure, manage, and/or diminish the social isolation and the perceived loneliness among older adults. In addition, we also summarize the identified solutions which can be used for measuring and monitoring various loneliness- and social isolation-related metrics, and we present and validate, through a simple proof-of-concept mechanism, an approach based on machine learning for predicting and estimating loneliness levels. Open research issues in this field are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Site
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (D.A.); (A.O.); (J.N.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (E.S.L.)
| | - Elena Simona Lohan
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (D.A.); (A.O.); (J.N.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (E.S.L.)
| | - Outi Jolanki
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (O.J.); (O.V.); (R.L.); (A.O.)
| | - Outi Valkama
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (O.J.); (O.V.); (R.L.); (A.O.)
| | - Rosana Rubio Hernandez
- Faculty of Built Environment, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (R.R.H.); (F.N.F.)
| | - Rita Latikka
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (O.J.); (O.V.); (R.L.); (A.O.)
| | - Daria Alekseeva
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (D.A.); (A.O.); (J.N.)
| | - Saigopal Vasudevan
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (S.V.); (S.A.); (J.M.L.)
| | - Samuel Afolaranmi
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (S.V.); (S.A.); (J.M.L.)
| | - Aleksandr Ometov
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (D.A.); (A.O.); (J.N.)
| | - Atte Oksanen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (O.J.); (O.V.); (R.L.); (A.O.)
| | - Jose Martinez Lastra
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (S.V.); (S.A.); (J.M.L.)
| | - Jari Nurmi
- Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, 33720 Tampere, Finland; (D.A.); (A.O.); (J.N.)
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Astasio-Picado Á, Cobos-Moreno P, Gómez-Martín B, Verdú-Garcés L, Zabala-Baños MDC. Efficacy of Interventions Based on the Use of Information and Communication Technologies for the Promotion of Active Aging. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031534. [PMID: 35162555 PMCID: PMC8834991 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Nowadays, the study of how new media and technologies can be used to carry out health education by bringing these tools closer to the elderly population is interesting. It is a way of offering them access not only to greater knowledge, but to greater communication and relationship with their surroundings, a range of new possibilities and resources at their disposal that also represent a way to reduce the generation gap and bring them closer to the rest of the community. Objectives: to evaluate and analyze the studies that show the efficacy of interventions based on the use of information and communication technologies for the promotion of active aging in people older than or equal to 65 years who live in the community. Data sources, study eligibility criteria: the search for the articles was carried out from January 2012 to March 2021, in 6 databases (Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Scielo, Google Academic and WOS) based on the clinical question, using the keywords derived from the DeCS and MeSH thesauri, combined with the Boolean operators “AND”, “NOT” and “OR”. The search was limited to publications from the last 9 years, in English and Spanish. Results: after applying the selection criteria and evaluating the quality of the methodology, 7.91% (n = 17) of the 215 results were included with filters: 7 systematic review, 5 of Cohorts and 5 of Randomized Controlled Trial. Conclusions and implications of key findings: the use of communication technologies reduces the feeling of loneliness, as well as the use of virtual reality to exercise, train memory or perform rehabilitation. The most difficult barrier to overcome is the prior ignorance of the majority of the elderly to the technology that is overcome by working as a team throughout the community, especially in the health and educational sector, as well as the family or social nucleus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Astasio-Picado
- Nursing and Physiotherapy Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Real Fábrica de Sedas, s/n., 45600 Toledo, Spain; (L.V.-G.); (M.d.C.Z.-B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Paula Cobos-Moreno
- Nursing Department, University of Extremadura, 10600 Cáceres, Spain; (P.C.-M.); (B.G.-M.)
| | - Beatriz Gómez-Martín
- Nursing Department, University of Extremadura, 10600 Cáceres, Spain; (P.C.-M.); (B.G.-M.)
| | - Lorena Verdú-Garcés
- Nursing and Physiotherapy Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Real Fábrica de Sedas, s/n., 45600 Toledo, Spain; (L.V.-G.); (M.d.C.Z.-B.)
| | - María del Carmen Zabala-Baños
- Nursing and Physiotherapy Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Real Fábrica de Sedas, s/n., 45600 Toledo, Spain; (L.V.-G.); (M.d.C.Z.-B.)
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Lippke S, Ratz T, Keller FM, Juljugin D, Peters M, Pischke C, Voelcker-Rehage C. Mitigating feelings of loneliness and depression by means of web-based or print-based physical activity interventions: Pooled analysis of two community-based intervention trials (Preprint). JMIR Aging 2022; 5:e36515. [PMID: 35943790 PMCID: PMC9399846 DOI: 10.2196/36515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Physical activity (PA) is associated with benefits, such as fewer depressive symptoms and loneliness. Web- and print-based PA interventions can help older individuals accordingly. Objective We aimed to test the following research questions: Do PA interventions delivered in a web- or print-based mode improve self-reported PA stage of change, social-cognitive determinants of PA, loneliness, and symptoms of depression? Is subjective age a mediator and stage of change a moderator of this effect? Methods Overall, 831 adults aged ≥60 years were recruited and either allocated to a print-based or web-based intervention group or assigned to a wait-list control group (WLCG) in 2 community-based PA intervention trials over 10 weeks. Missing value imputation using an expectation-maximization algorithm was applied. Frequency analyses, multivariate analyses of variance, and moderated mediation analyses were conducted. Results The web-based intervention outperformed (47/59, 80% of initially inactive individuals being adopters, and 396/411, 96.4% of initially active individuals being maintainers of the recommended PA behavior) the print-based intervention (20/25, 80% of adopters, and 63/69, 91% of maintainers) and the WLCG (5/7, 71% of adopters; 141/150, 94% of maintainers). The pattern regarding adopters was statistically significant (web vs print Z=–1.94; P=.02; WLCG vs web Z=3.8367; P=.01). The pattern was replicated with stages (χ24=79.1; P<.001; contingency coefficient 0.314; P<.001); in the WLCG, 40.1% (63/157) of the study participants moved to or remained in action stage. This number was higher in the groups receiving web-based (357/470, 76%) or print-based interventions (64/94, 68.1%). A significant difference was observed favoring the 2 intervention groups over and above the WLCG (F19, 701=4.778; P<.001; η2=0.098) and a significant interaction of time and group (F19, 701=2.778; P<.001; η2=0.070) for predictors of behavior. The effects of the interventions on subjective age, loneliness, and depression revealed that both between-group effects (F3, 717=8.668; P<.001; η2=0.018) and the interaction between group and time were significant (F3, 717=6.101; P<.001; η2=0.025). In a moderated mediation model, both interventions had a significant direct effect on depression in comparison with the WLCG (web-based: c′ path −0.86, 95% CI −1.58 to −0.13, SE 0.38; print-based: c′ path −1.96, 95% CI −2.99 to −0.92, SE 0.53). Furthermore, subjective age was positively related to depression (b path 0.14, 95% CI 0.05-0.23; SE 0.05). An indirect effect of the intervention on depression via subjective age was only present for participants who were in actor stage and received the web-based intervention (ab path −0.14, 95% CI −0.34 to −0.01; SE 0.09). Conclusions Web-based interventions appear to be as effective as print-based interventions. Both modes might help older individuals remain or become active and experience fewer depression symptoms, especially if they feel younger. Trial Registration German Registry of Clinical Trials DRKS00010052 (PROMOTE 1); https://tinyurl.com/nnzarpsu and DRKS00016073 (PROMOTE 2); https://tinyurl.com/4fhcvkwy International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/15168
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Lippke
- Psychology & Methods, Jacobs University Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Tiara Ratz
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich (USZ), University of Zurich (UZH), Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Manuela Peters
- Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology-BIPS, Bremen, Germany
| | - Claudia Pischke
- Institute of Medical Sociology, Centre for Health and Society, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Claudia Voelcker-Rehage
- Department of Neuromotor Behavior and Exercise, Institute of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
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Naudé B, Rigaud AS, Pino M. Video Calls for Older Adults: A Narrative Review of Experiments Involving Older Adults in Elderly Care Institutions. Front Public Health 2022; 9:751150. [PMID: 35096731 PMCID: PMC8795665 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.751150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Social isolation in geriatric institutions is a real threat to older adults' (OAs) well-being. Visits from family members, when they are not impacted by geographical distance or illness, sometimes fail to provide sufficient opportunities for social connectedness and interaction to prevent and/or combat OAs' loneliness and social isolation. Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) offer promising solutions to this problem. Video calls provide a quick and convenient way for remote communication between OAs and their families, and a complement to face-to-face visits in geriatric settings. Over the last months, during the several confinements imposed to stop the transmission of COVID-19 over the world, several care homes and long-care facilities have equipped themselves with laptops, tablets and video call applications to help OAs remain in contact with their relatives. However, numerous technical and human-related factors may hinder the use of video calls in these settings. The complexity of technological devices, as well as OAs limited digital skills, low confidence and experience in the use of technology are some examples. Furthermore, the specific context of use and the required implication of multiple actors (care professionals, family members) should also be considered when examining the use and implementation of video calls in geriatric institutions. We conducted a narrative review of literature describing the use of video calls in geriatric institutions between 2000 and 2021, especially because of the little information related to OAs' use of video calls in geriatric settings. One thousand one hundred ninety-seven references were screened and 15 studies focusing on the usability, acceptability and effectiveness of video calls were included. A qualitative, deductive thematic analysis inspired by a Health Technology Assessment (HTA) multidimensional model was used to identify barriers, enablers and solutions to video calls implementation in geriatric institutions. The results from the HTA-based analysis provide encouraging evidence for the feasibility of video call use in geriatric settings, and its efficacy on reducing social isolation among residents. However, numerous technical, human-related, ethical and organizational barriers persist and should be addressed in future works. The present analysis has also allowed the identification of potential solutions to overcome these barriers, which are discussed in this publication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anne-Sophie Rigaud
- Université de Paris, Maladie d'Alzheimer, Paris, France
- Services de gériatrie 1 & 2, AP-HP, Hôpital Broca, Paris, France
| | - Maribel Pino
- Université de Paris, Maladie d'Alzheimer, Paris, France
- Services de gériatrie 1 & 2, AP-HP, Hôpital Broca, Paris, France
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Beogo I, Sia D, Tchouaket Nguemeleu E, Zhao J, Gagnon MP, Etowa J. Strengthening Social Capital to Address Isolation and Loneliness in Long-Term Care Facilities During the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review Protocol of Research on Information and Communication Technologies (Preprint). JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e36269. [PMID: 35275841 PMCID: PMC8955240 DOI: 10.2196/36269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has had the greatest impact in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) by disproportionately harming older adults and heightening social isolation and loneliness (SIL). Living in close quarters with others and in need of around-the-clock assistance, interactions with older adults, which were previously in person, have been replaced by virtual chatting using information and communication technologies (ICTs). ICT applications such as FaceTime, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams video chatting have been overwhelmingly used by families to maintain residents’ social capital and subsequently reduce their SIL. Objective Because of the lack of substantive knowledge on this ever-increasing form of social communication, this systematic review intends to synthesize the effects of ICT interventions to address SIL among residents in LTCFs during the COVID-19 period. Methods We will include studies published in Chinese, English, and French from December 2019 onwards. Beyond the traditional search strategy approach, 4 of the 12 electronic databases to be queried will be in Chinese. We will include quantitative and intervention studies as well as qualitative and mixed methods designs. Using a 2-person approach, the principal investigator and one author will blindly screen eligible articles, extract data, and assess risk of bias. In order to improve the first round of screening, a pilot-tested algorithm will be used. Disagreements will be resolved through discussion with a third author. Results will be presented as structured summaries of the included studies. We plan to conduct a meta-analysis if sufficient data are available. Results A total of 1803 articles have been retrieved to date. Queries of the Chinese databases are ongoing. The systematic review and subsequent manuscript will be completed by the fall of 2022. Conclusions ICT applications have become a promising avenue to reduce SIL by providing a way to maintain communication between LTCF residents and their families and will certainly remain in the post–COVID-19 period. This review will investigate and describe context-pertinent and high-quality programs and initiatives to inform, at the macro level, policy makers and researchers, frontline managers, and families. These methods will remain relevant in the post–COVID-19 era. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/36269
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Affiliation(s)
- Idrissa Beogo
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- College of Nursing, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Drissa Sia
- Département des sciences infirmières, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Saint-Jerôme, QC, Canada
- Département de médecine sociale et préventive, École de santé publique, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Eric Tchouaket Nguemeleu
- Département des sciences infirmières, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Saint-Jerôme, QC, Canada
- Département de gestion, d'évaluation et de politique de santé, École de santé publique, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Junqiang Zhao
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Josephine Etowa
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Hardy MS, Fanaki C, Savoie C, Dallaire C, Wilchesky M, Gallani MC, Gagnon MP, Laberge M, Voyer P, Côtéc A, Couture V, Dallaire B. Acceptability of videoconferencing to preserve the contact between cognitively impaired long-term care residents and their family caregivers: A mixed-methods study. Geriatr Nurs 2022; 48:65-73. [PMID: 36155311 PMCID: PMC9492440 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2022.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Visiting restrictions had to be imposed to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus and ensure the safety of long-term care home (LTCH) residents. This mixed method study aimed to explore residents' and family caregivers' acceptability of electronic tablets used to preserve and promote contact. Semi-structured individual interviews with 13 LTCH residents and 13 family caregivers were done to study their experiences, as well as the challenges and resources encountered in the implementation and use of videoconferencing. They had to rate, on a scale from 0 to 10, each of the 6 Theoretical Framework of Acceptability' constructs of the acceptability of the intervention. The results confirm acceptability of videoconferencing, giving residents and caregivers the opportunity to talk to and see each other during the pandemic. Videoconferencing had some benefits, such as being less expensive, and taking less time and effort for family caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Soleil Hardy
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, 1600 Ave des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec City, Québec G1V 5C3, Canada,Corresponding author
| | - Chaimaa Fanaki
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, 1600 Ave des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec City, Québec G1V 5C3, Canada
| | - Camille Savoie
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, 1600 Ave des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec City, Québec G1V 5C3, Canada
| | - Clémence Dallaire
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, 1600 Ave des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec City, Québec G1V 5C3, Canada
| | - Mashelle Wilchesky
- Department of Family Medicine and Division of Geriatric Medicine, Université McGill, 3755 Cote St. Catherine Road, Montreal, Quebec H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Maria Cecilia Gallani
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, 1600 Ave des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec City, Québec G1V 5C3, Canada
| | - Marie-Pierre Gagnon
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, 1600 Ave des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec City, Québec G1V 5C3, Canada
| | - Maude Laberge
- Administration Faculty, Université Laval, 2325 Rue de la Terrasse, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Philippe Voyer
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, 1600 Ave des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec City, Québec G1V 5C3, Canada
| | - André Côtéc
- Administration Faculty, Université Laval, 2325 Rue de la Terrasse, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Vincent Couture
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Université Laval, 1600 Ave des Sciences-de-la-Vie, Québec City, Québec G1V 5C3, Canada
| | - Bernadette Dallaire
- School of Social Work and Criminology, Social Sciences Faculty, Université Laval, 1030, avenue des Sciences-Humaines, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada
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48
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Veiga-Seijo R, Miranda-Duro MDC, Veiga-Seijo S. Strategies and actions to enable meaningful family connections in nursing homes during the COVID-19: A Scoping Review. Clin Gerontol 2022; 45:20-30. [PMID: 34170785 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2021.1937424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To better understand the impact of visitor restrictions on nursing home residents and their families as well as strategies and actions that were conducted in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A scoping review was carried out in October 2020. Several electronic databases were used: Cochrane Plus, Scopus, Web of Sciences and PubMed. 725 results were identified. We included 10 articles. RESULTS Thematic analysis obtained the following categories: the impact of COVID-19 on nursing home residents' lives and their families, procedures and frameworks of nursing homes during and after lockdown, and solutions and resources implemented by health care professionals to improve the connection between older people and their families. CONCLUSIONS Visitor restrictions have a high impact on the health and well-being of older adults' and their families. The main strategies and solutions employed to reduce social isolation and facilitate the communication between older adults' and their families were the use of information and communication technologies, family support groups, and the assignment of reference staff to each family. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS The strategies and solutions mentioned should be internationally considered by health care providers in nursing homes to improve connections between family and older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Veiga-Seijo
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursery and Podiatry, Ferrol Campus, Universidade da Coruña (University of A Coruña),Ferrol,A Coruña, Spain.,Grupo de Investigación en Reumatología y Salud (GIR-S), Faculty of Phisiotherapy, Oza Campus, Universidade da Coruña (University of A Coruña), A Coruña, Spain
| | - María Del Carmen Miranda-Duro
- CITIC(Centre for Information and Communications Technology Research),TALIONIS Group,Elviña Campus, Universidade da Coruña (University of A Coruña), A Coruña, Spain.,Department of Physiotherapy, Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oza Campus, Universidade da Coruña (University of A Coruña), A Coruña, Spain
| | - Silvia Veiga-Seijo
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oza Campus, Universidade da Coruña (University of A Coruña), A Coruña, Spain
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49
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Partinen M, Holzinger B, Morin CM, Espie C, Chung F, Penzel T, Benedict C, Bolstad CJ, Cedernaes J, Chan RNY, Dauvilliers Y, De Gennaro L, Han F, Inoue Y, Matsui K, Leger D, Cunha AS, Merikanto I, Mota-Rolim S, Nadorff M, Plazzi G, Schneider J, Sieminski M, Wing YK, Bjorvatn B. Sleep and daytime problems during the COVID-19 pandemic and effects of coronavirus infection, confinement and financial suffering: a multinational survey using a harmonised questionnaire. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e050672. [PMID: 34903540 PMCID: PMC8671846 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sleep is important for human health and well-being. No previous study has assessed whether the COVID-19 pandemic impacts sleep and daytime function across the globe. METHODS This large-scale international survey used a harmonised questionnaire. Fourteen countries participated during the period of May-August 2020. Sleep and daytime problems (poor sleep quality, sleep onset and maintenance problems, nightmares, hypnotic use, fatigue and excessive sleepiness) occurring 'before' and 'during' the pandemic were investigated. In total, 25 484 people participated and 22 151 (86.9%) responded to the key parameters and were included. Effects of COVID-19, confinement and financial suffering were considered. In the fully adjusted logistic regression models, results (weighted and stratified by country) were adjusted for gender, age, marital status, educational level, ethnicity, presence of sleep problems before COVID-19 and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic in each country at the time of the survey. RESULTS The responders were mostly women (64%) with a mean age 41.8 (SD 15.9) years (median 39, range 18-95). Altogether, 3.0% reported having had COVID-19; 42.2% reported having been in confinement; and 55.9% had suffered financially. All sleep and daytime problems worsened during the pandemic by about 10% or more. Also, some participants reported improvements in sleep and daytime function. For example, sleep quality worsened in about 20% of subjects and improved in about 5%. COVID-19 was particularly associated with poor sleep quality, early morning awakening and daytime sleepiness. Confinement was associated with poor sleep quality, problems falling asleep and decreased use of hypnotics. Financial suffering was associated with all sleep and daytime problems, including nightmares and fatigue, even in the fully adjusted logistic regression models. CONCLUSIONS Sleep problems, fatigue and excessive sleepiness increased significantly worldwide during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Problems were associated with confinement and especially with financial suffering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markku Partinen
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Helsinki Clinicum Unit, Helsinki, Finland
- Helsinki Sleep Clinic, Terveystalo Healthcare Services, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Brigitte Holzinger
- Institute for Dream and Consciousness Research, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Charles M Morin
- Centre d'étude des troubles du sommeil, Centre de recherche CERVO/Brain Research Center, Université Laval École de psychologie, Quebec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Colin Espie
- Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Frances Chung
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thomas Penzel
- Sleep Medicine Center, Charite University Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Benedict
- Department of Neuroscience, Sleep Science (BMC), Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Courtney J Bolstad
- Department of Psychology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi, USA
| | - Jonathan Cedernaes
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Rachel Ngan Yin Chan
- Li Chiu Kong Family Sleep Assessment Unit, Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Yves Dauvilliers
- National Reference Center for Narcolepsy, Sleep and Wake Unit, Department of Neurology, Gui-de-Chauliac Hospital, University Hospital Centre Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Luigi De Gennaro
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Lazio, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Roma, Italy
| | - Fang Han
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuichi Inoue
- Department of Somnology, Tokyo Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Japan
- Neuropsychiatric Research Institute, Japan Somnology Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kentaro Matsui
- Department of Clinical Laboratory and Department of Sleep-Wake Disorders, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry National Institute of Mental Health, Kodaira, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Japan
| | - Damien Leger
- Sleep and Vigilance Center, Hopital Hotel-Dieu de Paris, Paris, France
- VIFASOM (EA 7331 Vigilance Fatigue Sommeil et Santé Publique), Universite de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Ana Suely Cunha
- Production Engineering Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Ilona Merikanto
- Research Programs Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sergio Mota-Rolim
- Brain Institute, Onofre Lopes University Hospital, Petropolis, Brazil
- Physiology and Behavior Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Michael Nadorff
- Department of Psychology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi, USA
| | - Giuseppe Plazzi
- IRCCS Istituto Delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Jules Schneider
- Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mariusz Sieminski
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Yun-Kwok Wing
- Li Chiu Kong Family Sleep Assessment Unit, Department of Psychiatry, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Bjørn Bjorvatn
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Norwegian Competence Center for Sleep Disorders, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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50
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Hirt J, Langer G, Wilde F, Bauernschmidt D, Meyer G, Bieber A. Technology-based counselling in dementia (TeCoDem): study protocol of a mixed-methods systematic review with qualitative comparative analysis and meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e054157. [PMID: 34880025 PMCID: PMC8655568 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-054157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Information technology can enhance timely and individual support for people with dementia and informal carers. There is some evidence that people with dementia and informal carers would benefit from technology-based counselling. However, it remains unclear which features of those interventions relate to beneficial outcomes and which aspects are necessary for a successful implementation. Therefore, the primary objectives are: (1) to identify conditions of successful implementation of technology-based counselling interventions in dementia and (2) to investigate the effectiveness of those interventions. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will conduct a mixed-methods systematic review. The first primary objective requires evidence from various study designs addressing aspects on effective and non-effective implementation of technology-based counselling. This could be telephone-based, web-based or mobile-based interventions for people with dementia and informal carers. For the second primary objective, randomised controlled trials (RCTs) dealing with any outcomes will be included. Year of publication and language will not be restricted. We will search CINAHL, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Web of Science up to April 2021. Additionally, we will perform web searching and citation tracking. To achieve the first primary objective, a Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) will be conducted. The QCA enables us to identify necessary or sufficient components for a successful implementation. To reach the second primary objective, a meta-analysis will be performed with respect to potential clinical and statistical heterogeneity of RCTs. The revised Risk of Bias tool 2.0 will be used to check the risk of bias in RCTs. For all other study designs, the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool will be used. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval is not required for this review. We will disseminate our findings through scientific and non-scientific journal articles and conference presentations as well as formats directed to the public and decision-makers in healthcare. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021245473.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Hirt
- Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
- Center for Dementia Care, Institute of Applied Nursing Sciences, Department of Health, Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, St Gallen, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gero Langer
- Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Fabian Wilde
- Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Dorothee Bauernschmidt
- Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Gabriele Meyer
- Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Anja Bieber
- Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
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