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Cao Q, Pope N, Greenfield E. "I'm Part of Something That Matters": Exploring What Older Adults Value Through Their Engagement in Age-Friendly Community Initiatives. JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGICAL SOCIAL WORK 2024:1-23. [PMID: 38704668 DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2024.2339971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Older adults' engagement in age-friendly community (AFC) initiatives is considered an essential element of community transformation. However, research on older adults' experiences of engaging in AFC initiatives remains nascent. Based on qualitative interviews with 23 older adult participants from 15 AFC initiatives across four states in the United States (U.S.), our reflexive thematic analysisidentified three themes regarding what participants value from their engagement: (a) social contribution; (b) social connectedness and integration; and (c) staying active and personal growth. Exploring older adults' interest in contributing to, connecting with, and growing in their community can inform recruitment and retention in AFC initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuchang Cao
- College of Social Work, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Natalie Pope
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Emily Greenfield
- School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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2
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Naud D, Généreux M, Bruneau JF, Levasseur M. [Indice du potentiel de participation sociale des Québécois âgés : cartographie des inégalités des zones métropolitaines, urbaines et rurales]. Can J Aging 2024; 43:84-98. [PMID: 37846100 DOI: 10.1017/s071498082300051x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Afin de mieux comprendre la distribution géographique des facilitateurs et des obstacles à la participation sociale des Québécois âgés, cette étude visait à documenter l'Indice du potentiel de participation sociale (IPPS) selon les zones métropolitaines, urbaines et rurales. Des analyses de données secondaires, dont l'Enquête transversale sur la santé des collectivités canadiennes, ont permis de développer et de cartographier un indice composé de facteurs environnementaux associés à la participation sociale, pondérés par une analyse factorielle. En zones métropolitaines, l'IPPS était supérieur au centre qu'en périphérie, compte tenu d'une concentration accrue d'aînés et des transports. Bien qu'atténuée, la configuration était similaire en zones urbaines. En zone rurale, un IPPS élevé était associé à une concentration d'aînés et un accès aux ressources accru, sans configuration spatiale. Pour favoriser la participation sociale, l'IPPS soutient que les transports et l'accès aux ressources doivent respectivement être améliorés en périphérie des métropoles et en zone rurale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Naud
- Centre de recherche sur le vieillissement, Centre integre universitaire de sante et de services sociaux de l'Estrie - Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Mélissa Généreux
- Mélissa Généreux, Département des sciences de la santé communautaire, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-François Bruneau
- Jean-François Bruneau, Centre interuniversitaire de recherche sur les réseaux d'entreprise, la logistique et le transport (CIRRELT), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Mélanie Levasseur
- Centre de recherche sur le vieillissement, Centre integre universitaire de sante et de services sociaux de l'Estrie - Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
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3
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Naughton L, Cunha F, Padeiro M, Santana P. What the pandemic and its impact on the mobility and well-being of older people can teach us about age-friendly cities and communities. Soc Sci Med 2023; 338:116329. [PMID: 37879135 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116329] [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: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
From the start of the pandemic, questions were raised concerning how the pandemic could change or even transform relationships to our living environments. COVID-19 has had a disproportionate impact on the health and well-being of older people due to the increased risk of severity of the disease with both advancing age and associated co-morbidities. Restrictions on the movement of older people have also been more severe, with many countries imposing restrictions based on chronological age. In Portugal, confinement measures were targeted at older persons in terms of sheltering-at-home orders for those over 70. This paper looks at the impact of these restrictions on the lives of older people and asks what we can learn from the pandemic about the concept of age-friendly cities (WHO, 2007a). We look at the lived experience of older people to understand how their well-being and mobility were impacted during the crisis and its aftermath. The study was undertaken in four urban areas: Aveiro, Coimbra, Lisbon, and Faro. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews analysed using a process of thematic coding based on the eight pillars of the WHO's Age-Friendly City Checklist (WHO, 2007b). The results are discussed using conceptualisations from the new mobilities paradigm: existential mobility, connection and (im)mobility governance, offering new ways of thinking about age-friendliness in and out of crisis.
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Boavida J, Ayanoglu H, Pereira CV, Hernandez-Ramirez R. Active Aging and Smart Public Parks. Geriatrics (Basel) 2023; 8:94. [PMID: 37887967 PMCID: PMC10606855 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics8050094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The global population is aging, with the percentage of people over 60 expected to rise from 12% to 22% and 33% residing in developed countries. However, most cities lack the appropriate infrastructure to support aging citizens in active aging and traversing the urban landscape, negatively impacting their quality of life. Studies have shown that public parks and green spaces can contribute to a higher quality of life and wellbeing. Also, smart cities are intended to improve the wellbeing and health of their inhabitants. However, most solutions are typically implemented indoors and tend to overlook the needs of older adults. A smart city should consider the increasing rate of aging and give more importance to outdoor environments as a key aspect of quality of life. The article's main purpose is to provide a comprehensive background to understand the current knowledge on smart public parks and highlight the significance of new research in the field to promote active aging. The article is expected to inspire new research ideas by identifying gaps in knowledge. Open and challenging issues in emerging smart park solutions are proposed for further work.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Boavida
- Unidade de Investigação em Design e Comunicação, Faculdade de Design, Tecnologia e Comunicação, UNIDCOM/IADE, Universidade Europeia, IADE, Av. D. Carlos I, 4, 1200-649 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Hande Ayanoglu
- Unidade de Investigação em Design e Comunicação, Faculdade de Design, Tecnologia e Comunicação, UNIDCOM/IADE, Universidade Europeia, IADE, Av. D. Carlos I, 4, 1200-649 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Cristóvão Valente Pereira
- Centro de Investigação e Estudos em Belas-Artes, Faculdade de Belas-Artes, Universidade de Lisboa, Largo da Academia Nacional de Belas-Artes, 1249-058 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rodrigo Hernandez-Ramirez
- Unidade de Investigação em Design e Comunicação, Faculdade de Design, Tecnologia e Comunicação, UNIDCOM/IADE, Universidade Europeia, IADE, Av. D. Carlos I, 4, 1200-649 Lisboa, Portugal
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Yamada K, Murotani K, Mano M, Lim Y, Yoshimatsu J. Age-Friendly Approach Is Necessary to Prevent Depopulation: Resident Architectural Designers and Constructors' Evaluation of the Age-Friendliness of Japanese Municipalities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6626. [PMID: 37681766 PMCID: PMC10487906 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20176626] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Japan has the world's largest old population ratio; thus, aging is an urgent societal issue. As global trends seem to be following Japan's social changes, there is an emphasis on municipalities becoming more age-friendly. Hence, we examine the age-friendliness of 135 Japanese municipalities, selecting 240 resident architectural designers and constructors to assess their municipalities using the Age-Friendly Cities and Communities Questionnaire (AFCCQ). The findings indicate that Japan lacks "outdoor spaces and buildings". Additionally, the evaluation of "housing", "community support and health services", and "transportation" in populated municipalities in the past five years was found to be significantly higher than that in depopulated ones. Age-friendliness is significantly affected by the AFCCQ total score (hereafter, Score) based on "housing", "social participation", "community support and health services", "transportation", and "financial situation" evaluations. High specificity (0.939) was found when the score was treated as a marker of depopulation; an age-friendly approach is a necessary condition for preventing depopulation. Furthermore, a lack of "communication and information" was observed in municipalities with a higher rate of single-person households aged 65 years and older. Therefore, resident architectural designers' and constructors' assessments, combined with the AFCCQ, will be a powerful tool for evaluating the age-friendliness of municipalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazumasa Yamada
- Organization for Co-Creation Research and Contributions, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Gokiso-chou, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8555, Japan
- Liaison Office, Innovation Center for Translational Research, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, 7-430, Morioka-chou 474-8511, Japan
| | - Kenta Murotani
- Biostatistics Center, Kurume University, 67, Asahi-machi, Kurume 830-0011, Japan;
| | - Makiko Mano
- Organization for Co-Creation Research and Contributions, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Gokiso-chou, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8555, Japan
| | - Youngmi Lim
- Organization for Co-Creation Research and Contributions, Nagoya Institute of Technology, Gokiso-chou, Showa-ku, Nagoya 466-8555, Japan
| | - Jun Yoshimatsu
- College of Human Sciences, Kinjo Gakuin University, 2-1723, Omori, Moriyama-ku, Nagoya 463-8521, Japan;
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Wende ME, Lohman MC, Friedman DB, McLain AC, LaMonte MJ, Whitsel EA, Shadyab AH, Garcia L, Chrisinger BW, Pan K, Bird CE, Sarto GE, Kaczynski AT. Neighborhood Socioeconomic Status, Green Space, and Walkability and Risk for Falls Among Postmenopausal Women: The Women's Health Initiative. Womens Health Issues 2023; 33:443-458. [PMID: 37149415 PMCID: PMC10330171 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.03.009] [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: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study estimated associations between neighborhood socioeconomic status (NSES), walkability, green space, and incident falls among postmenopausal women and evaluated modifiers of these associations, including study arm, race and ethnicity, baseline household income, baseline walking, age at enrollment, baseline low physical functioning, baseline fall history, climate region, and urban-rural residence. METHODS The Women's Health Initiative recruited a national sample of postmenopausal women (50-79 years) across 40 U.S. clinical centers and conducted yearly assessments from 1993 to 2005 (n = 161,808). Women reporting a history of hip fracture or walking limitations were excluded, yielding a final sample of 157,583 participants. Falling was reported annually. NSES (income/wealth, education, occupation), walkability (population density, diversity of land cover, nearby high-traffic roadways), and green space (exposure to vegetation) were calculated annually and categorized into tertiles (low, intermediate, high). Generalized estimating equations assessed longitudinal relationships. RESULTS NSES was associated with falling before adjustment (high vs. low, odds ratio, 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.01). Walkability was significantly associated with falls after adjustment (high vs. low, odds ratio, 0.99; 95% confidence interval, 0.98-0.99). Green space was not associated with falling before or after adjustment. Study arm, race and ethnicity, household income, age, low physical functioning, fall history, and climate region modified the relationship between NSES and falling. Race and ethnicity, age, fall history, and climate region modified relationships between walkability and green space and falling. CONCLUSIONS Our results did not show strong associations of NSES, walkability, or green space with falling. Future research should incorporate granular environmental measures that may directly relate to physical activity and outdoor engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn E Wende
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina.
| | - Matthew C Lohman
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Daniela B Friedman
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Alexander C McLain
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Michael J LaMonte
- Deparment of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| | - Eric A Whitsel
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health and Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Aladdin H Shadyab
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Lorena Garcia
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California
| | - Benjamin W Chrisinger
- Department of Social Policy and Intervention, Division of Social Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kathy Pan
- Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Downey Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente, Downey, California
| | - Chloe E Bird
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California; Center for Health Equity Research, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts; Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Gloria E Sarto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Andrew T Kaczynski
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina; Prevention Research Center, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
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Monachesi P. Age Friendly Characteristics and Sense of Community of an Italian City: The Case of Macerata. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20105847. [PMID: 37239573 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20105847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The paper presents a study about the city of Macerata, as a representative case of an urban community in the Marche Region, Italy. The aim of this paper is to assess the level of its age-friendliness by means of a quantitative analysis based on a questionnaire that relies on the well-established eight AFC domains proposed by the WHO. In addition, the sense of community (SOC) is investigated and how the older residents relate to it. Studies that analyze age-friendly Italian cities in relation to elder outcomes are limited. The paper contributes to fill this gap, and the findings reveal that the elderly respondents are not particularly satisfied about the services and the urban infrastructure of the city but show nevertheless a sense of community. It might be the combination of urban and rural features that contributes to the longevity and strong sense of community of the city despite its poor infrastructure and average services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Monachesi
- Department of Languages, Literature and Communication, Utrecht University, Trans 10, 3512 JK Utrecht, The Netherlands
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8
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Guillemot JR, Warner ME. Age-Friendly Cities in Latin America: A Human Ecological Framework. Geriatrics (Basel) 2023; 8:geriatrics8030046. [PMID: 37218826 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics8030046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the demographic aging of Latin America, the uptake of the WHO's Age-Friendly Cities Framework remains extremely low, with the notable exceptions of Chile, Mexico and Brazil. We argue for a broader human ecological framework, which focuses on the macro, meso and micro levels, to better address the context, challenges and opportunities for age-friendly cities in the Latin American region. The WHO's age-friendly city domains are primarily at the meso (community) scale, with a focus on built environment, services and participation. We call for more attention to be paid to the macro policy scale to address concerns regarding migration, demography and social policy context. More attention also should be given to the micro scale to recognize the critical role of family and informal care supports. It is possible that the WHO domains are the result of a design bias, with Global North settings in mind for their development. We find the domains of UNICEF's Child-Friendly Cities Initiative, which give more attention to the realities of the Global South, helpful to broaden the WHO's Age-Friendly Cities Framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan R Guillemot
- Escuela de Medicina, Colegio de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Campus Cumbayá and Hospital de Los Valles, Quito 170901, Ecuador
- Instituto de Medicina Social & Desafíos Globales, Escuela de Salud Pública, Colegio de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Campus Cumbayá, Casilla Postal 17-1200-8414, Quito 170901, Ecuador
| | - Mildred E Warner
- Department of City and Regional Planning, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Department of Global Development, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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Yang S, Liu L, Wang C, Lo K, Wang D. Elderly people's preferences for healthcare facilities in Shanghai: gender features and influencing factor analysis. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:356. [PMID: 36800949 PMCID: PMC9936711 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15279-6] [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: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND China has one of the fastest paces of the growing aging population, High-level policymakers have recently recognized the aging population presents significant challenges to the Chinese healthcare system. In this context, the healthcare-seeking behaviors of the elderly population have become an essential field of study. It is necessary to understand their access to health services and to improve their quality of life, as well as to help policymakers to formulate healthcare policy. The study empirically investigates the factors influencing the elderly population's healthcare-seeking behaviors in Shanghai, China, especially in choosing the quality of healthcare facilities to visit. METHODS We designed a cross-sectional study. The data of this study were derived from the "Shanghai elderly medical demand characteristics questionnaire" in the middle of November to early December 2017. A total of 625 individuals were included in the final sample. Logistic regression was adopted to investigate the differences in healthcare-seeking behaviors between elderly people when suffer from mild illness, severe illness and follow-up treatment. Next, the differences in gender were also discussed. RESULTS Factors affecting the healthcare-seeking behaviors of the elderly differ in mild illness and severe illness situations. For mild illness, demographic factors (gender and age) and socioeconomic factors (income and employment) play an important role in elderly healthcare choices. Female and older elderlies are more likely to choose local, lower-quality facilities, whereas those with high income and private employment are more likely to choose higher-quality facilities. For severe illness, socioeconomic factors (income and employment) are important. Furthermore, individuals with basic medical insurance are more likely to choose lower-quality facilities. CONCLUSION This study has shown that the affordability of public health services should be addressed. Medical policy support may be an important way to reduce the gap in access to medical services. We should pay attention to the gender differences in the elderly's choice of medical treatment behavior, consider the differences in the needs of male and female elderly. our findings are only for elderly Chinese participants in the greater Shanghai area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangguang Yang
- grid.28056.390000 0001 2163 4895Economic Development Institute, East China University of Science and Technology, 200237 Shanghai, China
| | - Luxue Liu
- grid.22069.3f0000 0004 0369 6365Student Affairs Office, East China Normal University, 200062 Shanghai, China
| | - Chunlan Wang
- grid.22069.3f0000 0004 0369 6365Population Research Institute, East China Normal University, 200062 Shanghai, China
| | - Kevin Lo
- grid.221309.b0000 0004 1764 5980Department of Geography, Hong Kong Baptist University, 999077 Hong Kong, China
| | - Danyang Wang
- Economic Development Institute, East China University of Science and Technology, 200237, Shanghai, China.
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Dennis M, Barker A, Anderson J, Ashton JC, Cavan G, Cook PA, French D, Gilchrist A, James P, Phillipson C, Tzoulas K, Wheater CP, Wossink A, Lindley S. Integrating knowledge on green infrastructure, health and well-being in ageing populations: Principles for research and practice. AMBIO 2023; 52:107-125. [PMID: 35932422 PMCID: PMC9666607 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-022-01765-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Ageing and urbanisation pose significant challenges for public health and urban planning. Ageing populations are at particular risk from hazards arising from urbanisation processes, some of which are in turn exacerbated by climate change. One approach for mitigating the negative effects of urbanisation on ageing populations is the leveraging of the beneficial effects of urban green infrastructure as a public health intervention in the planning process. We assessed the potential of available theoretical frameworks to provide the context for such leverage. This involved active engagement with academics and practitioners specialising in ageing, green infrastructure and health and well-being through a knowledge-brokering approach. We concluded that an integrated and comprehensive framework on the socio-cultural-ecological determinants of health is lacking. To address this, we present a set of principles for overcoming challenges to knowledge integration when working at the intersection of green infrastructure, ageing, health and well-being. Our findings-and the co-production process used to generate them-have wider significance for trans-disciplinary research into the benefits of the natural environment to human health and well-being as well as other complex and interconnected topics associated with global grand challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Dennis
- School of Environment Education and Development, University of Manchester, Arthur Lewis Building, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Adam Barker
- School of Environment Education and Development, University of Manchester, Arthur Lewis Building, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Jamie Anderson
- School of Environment Education and Development, Manchester Urban Institute, University of Manchester, Arthur Lewis Building, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Jenna C. Ashton
- Institute for Cultural Practices, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Gina Cavan
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester, M1 5GD UK
| | - Penny A. Cook
- School of Health and Society, University of Salford, Allerton Building, Salford, M6 6PU UK
| | - David French
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Anna Gilchrist
- School of Environment Education and Development, University of Manchester, Arthur Lewis Building, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Philip James
- School of Environment Education and Development, University of Manchester, Arthur Lewis Building, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Christopher Phillipson
- School of Social Sciences, Manchester Institute for Collaborative Research on Ageing, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Konstantinos Tzoulas
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester, M1 5GD UK
| | - C. Philip Wheater
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester, M1 5GD UK
| | - Ada Wossink
- Department of Economics, School of Social Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Sarah Lindley
- School of Environment Education and Development, University of Manchester, Arthur Lewis Building, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
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Valero-Escandell JR, Amat-Montesinos X, Cortés-Samper C. The Impact of Retired Immigrants on Quality of Life for the Local Aging Population: Results from the Southeast Spanish Coast. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:366. [PMID: 36612688 PMCID: PMC9819885 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The immigration of foreign retirees to Spain's southeast coast is a tradition that stretches back decades. This phenomenon has modified the demographic structure of many towns and also transformed their social and economic features, as well as the number and diversity of services available to the population. This study examines the effect of post-employment immigration on economic revitalisation, the increase in services and the arrival of new inhabitants. It demonstrates the transformative potential of the phenomenon for pre-coastal areas in the Spanish southeast and its influence on the configuration of friendly residential environments. The study analyses the evolution of basic demographic data and its spatial behaviour, establishing relationships between the quality of life of the local aging population and retired immigrants. The analysis focuses on the impact of residentialist areas on the configuration of friendly living environments. The results show how these communities, which were once somewhat stagnant and had a significantly aging population, either participated in the development or have improved their access to certain services and facilities, configuring new environments. The results reflect the improvement of the quality of life for the elderly in these settings, considering that they are often the majority age group.
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12
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Merchant RA, Chan YH, Aprahamian I, Morley JE. Patterns of participation restriction among older adults at risk of falls and relationship with intrinsic capacity: A latent cluster analysis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1023879. [PMID: 36507507 PMCID: PMC9732451 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1023879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The concept of participation restriction was first described by the World Health Organization in 2001 as a component of The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Framework. Both falls and fear of falling (FOF) are associated with social isolation, depression, anxiety, poor quality of life and cognitive impairment resulting in participation restriction. Life-space mobility (LSM) is an important indicator for participation restriction which depends on multiple inter-related factors. We aimed to determine participation patterns using latent cluster analysis (LCA) in older adults at risk of falls, its relationship with intrinsic capacity (IC) and its risk prediction. Methods Cross-sectional study of 154 community dwelling older adults ≥ 60 years with falls or risk of falls was conducted. Questionnaires were administered on demographics, hearing, LSM, frailty (FRAIL scale), anorexia of aging (SNAQ), cognition (Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA), FOF (Falls Efficacy Scale-International), physical function, and assessment for handgrip strength (HGS), gait speed, 5-times sit to stand (STS), vision and times-up-and-go (TUG) were performed. Six IC domains (vision and hearing, cognition, nutrition, mobility and depression) were measured. Results Three pattern of participation cluster were identified, high (n = 63, 40.9%), moderate (n = 83, 53.9%) and low (n = 8, 33 5.2%). Individuals in the high participation cluster were significantly younger, had higher LSM scores and lower FES-I scores, more robust, fewer ADL and IADL limitations, lower prevalence of low HGS, higher gait speed and shorter TUG. In the fully adjusted model compared to the high participation cluster, moderate participation was significantly associated with low MoCA scores (OR 4.2, 95% CI 1.7-10.4, p = 0.02), poor STS (OR 7.1, 95% CI 3.0-17.0, p < 0.001) whereas low participation was associated with anorexia of aging (OR 9.9, 95% CI 1.6-60.9, p = 0.014), poor STS (OR 19.1, 95% CI 2.0-187.5, p = 0.011) and hearing impairment (OR 9.8, 95% CI 1.4-70.8, p = 0.024). Participants with 3 out of 6 IC decline had a probability of greater than 80% to belong to the low/moderate participation class. Discussion Physical function, cognition, hearing and nutrition were significantly associated with low and/or moderate participation class. Future studies are needed to evaluate improvement in participation of those with falls or at risk for falls through restoration of IC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reshma Aziz Merchant
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yiong Huak Chan
- Biostatistics Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ivan Aprahamian
- Geriatrics Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Jundiai Medical School, Jundiai, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - John E Morley
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
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Brunelli L, Smith H, Woolrych R. A salutogenic urban design framework: the case of UK local high streets and older people. Health Promot Int 2022; 37:6775001. [PMID: 36287524 PMCID: PMC9600453 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The article provides a novel look at the links between salutogenesis, health promotion, and urban design supported by the findings of recent research on local high streets and their benefits for the well-being of older people. Salutogenesis and the related explanatory concept of sense of coherence (SOC) have provided a theoretical framework for developing healthy settings interventions, shifting the focus from exploring barriers and deficits to assets and resources in promoting people's health and well-being. While these concepts have informed policies and programmes at the level of regions and cities, no attempt has been made to establish more direct links with the disciplines devoted to the organization and design of the built environment at the scale of public spaces and streets. This article advances the idea that the main categories of SOC-comprehensibility, manageability and meaningfulness-have found application in urban design theory. Linking these categories with urban design concepts in a comprehensive framework, it is possible to guide interventions aimed at strenghtening well-being resources available in the public realm. This is corroborated by the findings resulting from a study of the well-being experiences of older people (n = 84) across a range of local high streets in the city of Edinburgh (UK) applying an innovative multi-methods approach. The discussion establishes the links between well-being benefits, SOC constructs and urban design concepts, and underscores the potential of the proposed framework to guide a design-oriented salutogenic approach to the built environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Harry Smith
- The Urban Institute, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ryan Woolrych
- The Urban Institute, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
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14
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Appiah D, Luitel S, Fuentes N, Nwabuo CC. Perceived neighborhood social cohesion and the 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease in low- and middle-income countries: The World Health Organization Study on Global Aging and Adult Health. Health Place 2022; 77:102895. [PMID: 36001938 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2022.102895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) bear the greatest burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) worldwide. Emerging evidence, mostly from industrialized countries, suggest that neighborhood characteristics influence cardiovascular health. This study presents results from 27,797 participants living in six LMICs on the association of perceived neighborhood social cohesion, the degree of connectedness among neighbors, with 10-year risk of CVD. We observed that greater perceived neighborhood social cohesion was associated with lower odds of high (>20%) 10-year CVD risk (OR = 0.67, 95%CI: 0.53-0.86). These novel findings, suggest that interventions to enhance social cohesion may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duke Appiah
- Department of Public Health, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, 79430, USA.
| | - Sujata Luitel
- Department of Public Health, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, 79430, USA
| | - Nayeli Fuentes
- School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, 79430, USA
| | - Chike C Nwabuo
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
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15
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Chiang YC, Gao DR, Lee CY, Li X, Sun XY, Chen CT. Influence of promoting an "age-friendly cities" strategy on psychological capital and social engagement based on the scenario method. J Aging Soc Policy 2022; 35:463-485. [PMID: 35969515 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2022.2110805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Holding large conferences and events usually encourages the corresponding government to upgrade the host city. For this process, incorporating additional costs to increase accessibility for the elderly is a feasible means for a city to develop in an age-friendly manner. Providing evidence-based reports to policy makers is conducive to implementing the policies of age-friendly cities. This study used the scenario method to simulate the effect of promoting the "age-friendly cities" strategy on residents' psychological capital and social engagement (SE). We found that promoting the construction of age-friendly cities can significantly improve residents' psychological capital and SE and that residents from all age groups can benefit. This paper provides an economical means to influence policymakers through evidence-based reports in promoting the development of age-friendly cities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Chen Chiang
- Associate Professor, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Chinaor
| | - Da-Rui Gao
- Master of Journalism and Communication, Peking University Clinical Research Institute, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Yang Lee
- Associate Professor, School of International Business, Xiamen University Tan Kah Kee College, Zhangzhou, China
| | - Xian Li
- Master of Public Health, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xin-Ying Sun
- Professor, Department of Social Medicine and Health Education, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ching-Tsao Chen
- Associate Professor, School of Journalism and Communication, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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16
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St-Pierre C, Braverman L, Dubois MF, Levasseur M. Convivialité des municipalités canadiennes à l’égard des aînés : portrait et facteurs associés. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 113:579-588. [PMID: 35380363 PMCID: PMC9262998 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-022-00617-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objectives This study aimed to (1) document, globally and by domain, Canadian municipalities’ level of age-friendliness, and (2) identify municipality characteristics most associated with age-friendliness. Methods A cross-sectional survey was sent to all Canadian municipalities (N=3406) with an online survey of 56 items from 9 domains providing age-friendliness scores. These scores were then crossed with the following municipality characteristics: percentage of adults aged 65 and older, population density, material deprivation, social deprivation, degree of metropolitan influence, implementation step of an age-friendly municipality initiative and geographic area. Results Nine hundred twenty-one municipalities completed the survey. Overall, municipalities’ age-friendliness total score is good (58.4%). Four domains have high scores: Security (80.0%), Respect and social inclusion (65.0%), Outdoor spaces and building (62.2%), and Social participation (62.2%). Higher age-friendliness is associated with metropolitan municipalities, regions other than Prairies and Atlantic, higher residential density, greater proportion of older adults, greater social deprivation, lower material deprivation, and the last step of an age-friendly initiative. Conclusion This portrait of Canadian municipalities’ age-friendliness can be used to strengthen actions promoting active aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine St-Pierre
- Centre de Recherche sur le Vieillissement, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l'Estrie - Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke (Québec), Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Louis Braverman
- Centre de Recherche sur le Vieillissement, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l'Estrie - Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke (Québec), Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Marie-France Dubois
- Centre de Recherche sur le Vieillissement, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l'Estrie - Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke (Québec), Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Mélanie Levasseur
- Centre de Recherche sur le Vieillissement, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l'Estrie - Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke (Québec), Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.
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17
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Kimpel CC, Jones AC, Ratcliff AC, Maxwell CA. Affordable Housing Specialists' Perceptions of Advance Care Planning Among Low-Income Older Adult Residents: A Qualitative Study. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2022; 24:232-239. [PMID: 35766946 PMCID: PMC9260882 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This preliminary qualitative study aimed to explore affordable housing specialists' perceptions of challenges and patterns of advance care planning behaviors among low-income older residents in affordable housing. Advance care planning rates among such residents are disproportionally lower than higher-income older adults. Individual telephone interviews were conducted with affordable housing specialists in a major urban area in the Southeastern United States (N = 5). Using thematic content analysis, 2 independent coders synthesized the 2 coding sets into a single codebook that was iteratively and individually reapplied to the transcripts. The Ecological Model of Active Living, a model that embeds individual behavior within a physical and social environment, was used to categorize prominent codes to visualize relationships among codes and create a cohesive, ecological picture of planning behavior in this population. Four themes emerged from the data and were plotted in an adapted ecological model. Residents' ongoing struggles despite obtaining housing prevent self-initiation and maintenance of advance care planning. Housing specialists possess the expertise and empathy to guide change efforts and provide advance care planning, but aid is required to ensure adequate resources to prevent role conflict and burnout. Recommendations for interprofessional collaboration, practice, policy, and research are discussed.
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18
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Kim K, Buckley TD, Burnette D, Huang J, Kim S. Age-Friendly Communities and Older Adults’ Health in the United States. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159292. [PMID: 35954648 PMCID: PMC9368031 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
As age-friendly community (AFC) initiatives grow, it will be essential to determine whether older adults who live in an AFC have better health than those who live in other environments. This study uses data from the 2017 AARP AFC Surveys and the AARP Livability Index to assess whether AFCs promote the health of older adults. We analyze data for 3027 adults aged 65 and older who reside in 262 zip code areas. Following AARP guidelines, we allocated the sample into two groups: an AFC group (livability score of 51+; n = 2364) and a non-AFC (score ≤ 50, n = 663). The outcome variable was self-rated health (M = 3.5; SD = 1.1; range: 1–5). We used an inverse probability weighting approach to evaluate whether older adults who live in an AFC reported better self-rated health than those who live in a non-AFC. Findings showed that older adults who lived in an AFC had better self-rated health than those in a non-AFC (b = 0.08, p = 0.027). Compared to non-Hispanic Whites, Black and Hispanic older adults reported worse self-rated health. Inasmuch as living in an AFC can promote the well-being of older adults, policymakers and practitioners should continue to develop and sustain high-quality, accessible built and social environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyeongmo Kim
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA; (D.B.); (S.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-804-827-8890; Fax: +1-804-828-0716
| | - Thomas D. Buckley
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA;
| | - Denise Burnette
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA; (D.B.); (S.K.)
| | - Jin Huang
- School of Social Work, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA;
| | - Seon Kim
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA; (D.B.); (S.K.)
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19
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Assessment of Environmental Demands of Age-Friendly Communities from Perspectives of Different Residential Groups: A Case of Wuhan, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159120. [PMID: 35897508 PMCID: PMC9368052 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Age-friendly communities (AFCs) are an important measure for fostering active aging. The key to achieving an age-friendly living environment is to construct or renovate it according to the residents’ demands. To date, very few studies have attempted to delve into the AFCs’ environmental demand from different groups’ perspectives. Based on the theory of place attachment, the aim of this paper is to explore the demand diversity of different groups for the AFC environment. This study employs the nonparametric test and the Ordinal Priority Approach (OPA) to investigate the demands from the residents’ perspectives, and is enhanced by incorporating experts’ opinions. The empirical analysis shows that residents have a high level of demand for the physical environment (indoor and outdoor) and social environment (community services and social participation). At the same time, experts advocate the importance of using digital technologies to support people aged 45–65 who have higher requirements for a community environment than older adults. The findings also show that other backgrounds, such as gender, living arrangements, and year of the community establishment, lead to different demands. However, the impact of residents’ education level, occupation, income, and self-care ability on the environmental demands is low. Based on the research findings, the paper provides some practical suggestions for the future design and development of AFCs.
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Zheng Z, Liu W, Lu Y, Sun N, Chu Y, Chen H. The influence mechanism of community-built environment on the health of older adults: from the perspective of low-income groups. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:590. [PMID: 35842581 PMCID: PMC9288733 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03278-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With the rapid development of population ageing, the international community has been paying more attention to the health problems of older adults and the age-friendly community. But there has not been enough discussion about the internal mechanism of the community-built environment that influences the health of older adults. The aim of our study was to explore the complex relationships among community-built environment, social participation, outdoor exercise, and health of older adults, as well as the differences among older adults in different income groups, particular attention was paid to the situation of low-income group. Methods This study used descriptive statistical analysis and structural equation Modeling (SEM) to make a group comparison among older adults in different income groups. The data of this study came from a sample survey in Shanghai, China. Results The study found that health difference exists among older adults in China: the lower the income, the worse the community-built environment, the worse the health. The community-built environment had an important impact on the health of older adults, especially the low-income older adults. And the community-built environment influenced the health of older adults through the intermediary role of outdoor exercise and social participation. Furthermore, the lower the income level of older adults, the stronger the direct effect of the community-built environment on their health; the higher the income level of older adults, the stronger the mediating effect of outdoor exercise and social participation on the impact of the community-built environment on their health. Conclusion Governments should pay more attention to the health and living conditions of low-income older adults and take proactive steps to help them. Community design and construction should pay more attention to the demands of low-income older adult groups, which will help to improve the health inequality of older adults, consequently enhancing older adults’ overall health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhua Zheng
- College of Communication and Art Design, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanting Liu
- College of Communication and Art Design, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingchen Lu
- College of Communication and Art Design, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Sun
- College of Communication and Art Design, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yusu Chu
- College of Communication and Art Design, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Chen
- College of Architecture & Environment, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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21
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Simpson ML, Oetzel J, Wilson Y, Nock S, Johnston K, Reddy R. Codesigning a Culture-Centered Age-Friendly Community for Māori Kaumātua: Cultural Principles and Practices. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2022; 77:2265-2275. [PMID: 35796864 PMCID: PMC9799182 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbac092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examined a Māori (Indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand) age-friendly housing development. Two Māori community groups worked with multiple stakeholders to codesign a culture-centered, kaumātua (older adults) urban housing community. The purpose was to identify codesign and culture-centered principles in the development. METHODS Kaupapa Māori (Māori-centered) and participatory research methodologies guided the culture-centered research design. Data collection included 27 interviews with 19 residents and 12 organizational stakeholders; three focus groups with residents' families, service providers, and nonresident kaumātua (n = 16); and project documents. Data analysis used the framework method. RESULTS Three codesign process themes emerged: (a) Kaumātua-centered vision; (b) realizing the vision; and (c) living the shared vision. DISCUSSION Accounting for cultural practices in codesigning age-friendly and culture-centered housing for and with Indigenous older adults helps meet their cultural, social, health, and economic needs. The research offers a practical pathway to developing age-friendly housing environments for Māori kaumātua, their communities, wider society, and other Indigenous people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Louisa Simpson
- Address correspondence to: Mary Louisa Simpson, PhD, Waikato Management School, University of Waikato, PB 3105, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand. E-mail:
| | - John Oetzel
- Waikato Management School, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | | | - Sophie Nock
- Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
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22
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Annink A, van Hees S. Meaning Over Things: How Objects and Places Matter to the Residential Happiness of Older Adults. JOURNAL OF AGING AND ENVIRONMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/26892618.2022.2092926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Annink
- Leyden Academy on Vitality and Aging, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Susan van Hees
- TS Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tranzo, Scientific Center for Care and Welfare, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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23
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Yang C, Sun X, Duan W. Widowhood and Life Satisfaction Among Chinese Elderly Adults: The Influences of Lifestyles and Number of Children. Front Public Health 2022; 9:754681. [PMID: 35155332 PMCID: PMC8826226 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.754681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Our study examined how lifestyle and number of children influence the relationship between widowhood and life satisfaction based on self-regulation theory. A sample of 2,968 elderly respondents (male = 1,515, female = 1,453, mean age = 69.12 years, SD = 7.24) participated in Chinese General Social Survey. Our findings suggest that lifestyle is positively related to life satisfaction, and number of children is positively associated with life satisfaction but negatively related to lifestyle. The moderated mediation model demonstrated that lifestyle partly mediated the relationship between widowhood and life satisfaction. Moreover, number of children moderated the relationship between widowhood and lifestyle and between lifestyle and satisfaction with life. Widowed elderly individuals who have more children are likely to show a higher level of satisfaction with life. The present study has significance in practice because it provides empirical implications obtained from a national survey on the universal two-child policy in China as two children might decrease the negative impacts of widowhood on life satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caiyun Yang
- School of Philosophy and Law & Political Science, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xixi Sun
- School of Social and Public Administration, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjie Duan
- School of Social and Public Administration, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
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24
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Kim J. The Age-Friendly Community Policy Movement and the Residential Location of U.S. Older Adults: The Case of Hamilton County, Ohio. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 41:1722-1732. [PMID: 35437038 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221085462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study maps and discusses the status of the age-friendly community movement in a United States (U.S.) residential-geographic context using the AARP Livability Index and Hamilton County, Ohio, as a case study. The framework for the construction of this index shares multiple commonalities with the World Health Organization’s widely adopted Age-Friendly Cities and Communities framework. Via visual inspection of maps and spatial analytics, this study compares geographic locations and spatial patterns of census tracts in terms of their residence desirability for older adults based on the Livability Index and actual residence locations of adults aged 65+ in Hamilton County. The comparison reveals that the actual residence locations of older adults differ from those that are most desirable. Given this difference between actual location choices and ideal or age-friendly residential environments, the age-friendly movement needs to discuss the gap between its framework, exemplified here by the AARP Livability Index, and reality to promote and implement its policies more effectively, especially in the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jongwoong Kim
- Department of Geography and Planning, West Chester University, West Chester, PA, USA
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25
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The Use of Urban Parks by Older Adults in the Context of Perceived Security. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19074184. [PMID: 35409867 PMCID: PMC8998194 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19074184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The perception of urban greenery is determined by many aspects, including the personal security of different groups of city dwellers. The objective of this study was to investigate if there are differences between the sense of security of older adults and other groups of urban park users, and which factors play an important role in the evaluation of personal security and thus determine the use (or not) of parks. A survey questionnaire was administrated to a sample of randomly selected park users in Poland (n = 394), including seniors (s = 69). The results show statistically significant differences in security perception between respondents under the age of 60 and those over the age of 60 in the case of all questioned factors. At the same time, all of them are important for a sense of security in older adults. This knowledge is crucial for designing more inclusive and age-friendly urban parks, which should meet the needs and expectations of older adults and encourage them to engage in more activity.
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26
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Mullen N, Stinchcombe A, Seguin C, Marshall S, Naglie G, Rapoport MJ, Tuokko H, Bédard M. Perceived Community Age-friendliness is Associated With Quality of Life Among Older Adults. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 41:1274-1282. [PMID: 35238672 PMCID: PMC9024013 DOI: 10.1177/07334648211065431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined the positive association between perceived community age-friendliness and self-reported quality of life for older adults. A total of 171 participants, aged 77–96 years, completed a mail-in questionnaire package that included measures of health (SF-36 Physical), social participation (Social Participation Scale), community age-friendliness (Age-Friendly Survey [AFS]), and quality of life (WHO Quality of Life). Hierarchical regression models including age, gender, driving status, finances, health, social participation, and AFS scores explained 8 to 21 per cent of the variance in quality of life scores. Community age-friendliness was a statistically significant variable in all models, accounting for three to six and a half per cent of additional variance in quality of life scores. Although the proportion of variance explained by age-friendliness was small, our findings suggest that it is worthwhile to further investigate whether focused, age-friendly policies, interventions, and communities could play a role towards successful and healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Mullen
- Centre for Research on Safe Driving, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
| | | | - Charles Seguin
- Centre for Research on Safe Driving, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
| | - Shawn Marshall
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute & Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Gary Naglie
- Department of Medicine and Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mark J Rapoport
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Holly Tuokko
- Institute on Aging and Lifelong Health, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Michel Bédard
- Centre for Research on Safe Driving, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada.,Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada.,St. Joseph's Care Group, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
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Eboreime E, Ohinmaa A, Rusak B, Cassidy KL, Morrison J, McGrath P, Uher R, Meier S, Fleury MJ, Iyer SN, Rej S, Batchelor F, Levinger P, Dang C, Hopwood M, Acquah FNL, Dzator J, Tomblin Murphy G, Warford J, Wozney L, Vedel I, Gahagan J, Theou O, Koto P, Sampalli T, Kirkland S, Watters N, Agyapong VIO. The Text4HealthyAging Program: An Evidence-Based Text Messaging Innovation to Support Healthy Urban Aging in Canada and Australia. Gerontol Geriatr Med 2022; 8:23337214221081378. [PMID: 35252477 PMCID: PMC8891919 DOI: 10.1177/23337214221081378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-friendly cities are crucial to achieve the WHO goal of healthy aging. Such cities promote opportunities for health, participation, and security, thus enhancing quality of life as people age. Older people commonly experience psychosocial challenges such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, loss of autonomy, grief, fear, and loneliness. Australian and Canadian cities continue to seek innovation to improve healthy urban aging and create more age-friendly environments for older adults. There is increasing evidence on the effectiveness and feasibility of mobile technology in health promotion and closing psychological treatment gaps. Older adults have been demonstrated to engage frequently with mobile devices, particularly text messaging. In this article, we conceptualize the Text4HealthyAging, an evidence-based text messaging innovation to support healthy urban aging in Canadian and Australian cities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ejemai Eboreime
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Arto Ohinmaa
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Benjamin Rusak
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, Faculty of Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Keri-Leigh Cassidy
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jason Morrison
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Patrick McGrath
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Rudolf Uher
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Sandra Meier
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | | | - Soham Rej
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill UniversityMontreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Pazit Levinger
- National Ageing Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Christa Dang
- National Ageing Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Malcolm Hopwood
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Janet Dzator
- Newcastle Business School, University of Newcastle, Australia
| | - Gail Tomblin Murphy
- Mental Health and Addictions, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jordan Warford
- Mental Health and Addictions, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Lori Wozney
- Mental Health and Addictions, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Isabelle Vedel
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Olga Theou
- Geriatric Medicine Research, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS, Canada
- School of Physiotherapy, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Prosper Koto
- Mental Health and Addictions, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Tara Sampalli
- Mental Health and Addictions, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Susan Kirkland
- Geriatric Medicine Research, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Community Health & Epidemiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | - Vincent I. O. Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Jagroep W, Cramm JM, Denktaș S, Nieboer AP. Age-friendly neighbourhoods and physical activity of older Surinamese individuals in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0261998. [PMID: 35085282 PMCID: PMC8794150 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Age-friendly neighbourhoods seem to promote physical activity among older individuals. Physical activity is especially important for chronically ill individuals. In the Netherlands, older Surinamese individuals are more likely to have chronic diseases than are their native Dutch counterparts. This study examined relationships of neighbourhood characteristics with physical activity among older Surinamese individuals in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. METHODS Of 2749 potential participants, 697 (25%) community-dwelling older (age ≥ 70 years) Surinamese individuals living in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, completed a questionnaire on personal and neighbourhood characteristics between March and June 2020. Correlation and multilevel regression analyses were performed to identify associations between missing neighbourhood characteristics for ageing in place and physical activity. RESULTS Scores for the neighbourhood domains communication and information (r = -0.099, p ≤ 0.05), community support and health services (r = -0.139, p ≤ 0.001), and respect and social inclusion (r = -0.141, p ≤ 0.001), correlated negatively with participants' PA. In the multilevel analysis, overall missing neighbourhood characteristics to age in place scores were associated negatively with physical activity (p ≤ 0.05). CONCLUSION This study showed the importance of age-friendly neighbourhoods for physical activity among older Surinamese individuals in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Our findings suggest that the neighbourhood plays an important role in supporting older individuals' leading of physically active lifestyles. Further research is needed to support the development of interventions to create age-friendly neighbourhoods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warsha Jagroep
- Department of Socio-Medical Sciences, Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jane M. Cramm
- Department of Socio-Medical Sciences, Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Semiha Denktaș
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies, Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anna P. Nieboer
- Department of Socio-Medical Sciences, Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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29
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Meeks
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
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Röhr S, Rodriguez FS, Siemensmeyer R, Müller F, Romero-Ortuno R, Riedel-Heller SG. How can urban environments support dementia risk reduction? A qualitative study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2022; 37. [PMID: 34571579 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Interventions to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia largely focus on individual-level strategies. To maximize risk reduction, it is also necessary to consider the environment. With the majority of older people living in cities, we explored how urban environments could support risk reduction. MATERIALS AND METHODS In our qualitative study, we conducted semi-structured interviews with community members aged ≥65 years and stakeholders, all living in Leipzig, Germany. Interview guides were informed by the framework on modifiable risk factors for dementia of the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care. Interviews were audio-recorded, verbatim-transcribed, and thematically analysed. RESULTS Community members (n = 10) were M = 73.7 (SD = 6.0) years old and 50% were women. Stakeholders (n = 10) were aged 39-72 years, and 70% were women. Stakeholders' fields included architecture, cultural/arts education, environmental sciences, geriatrics, health policy, information and technology, philosophy, psychology, public health, and urban sociology. Across interviews with both older individuals and stakeholders, three main themes were identified: (i) social participation and inclusion (emphasizing social contacts, social housing, intergenerationality, neighbourhood assistance, information and orientation, digital and technological literacy, lifelong learning, co-creation/co-design), (ii) proximity and accessibility (emphasizing proximity and reachability, mobility, affordability, access to health care, access to cultural events, public toilets), (iii) local recreation and wellbeing (emphasizing safety in traffic, security, cleanliness and environmental protection, urban greenery, climate change and heat waves, outdoor physical activity). DISCUSSION The design of urban environments holds large potential to create favourable conditions for community-dwelling individuals to practice lifestyles that promote brain health. Public policy should involve community members in co-creating such environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Röhr
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Francisca S Rodriguez
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Greifswald, Germany
| | - Rosa Siemensmeyer
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Felix Müller
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Roman Romero-Ortuno
- Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,School of Medicine, Discipline of Medical Gerontology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,Mercer's Institute for Successful Ageing, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Steffi G Riedel-Heller
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Fabisiak B, Jankowska A, Kłos R, Knudsen J, Gillsjö C, Kuprienko I, Vidiasova L, Poberznik A, Kreigere V. Preferences of seniors living in selected Baltic Sea region countries towards the use of indoor public space furniture. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258676. [PMID: 34882692 PMCID: PMC8659680 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Demographic changes can be observed all over the world. The number of seniors located in the societies of well-developed countries continues to rise. Both enterprises and governments need to be prepared for such changes. Consequently, public spaces need to evolve to reduce problems related to ageism and be friendly to all. Much attention is currently being paid to finding solutions for redesigning public spaces and adjusting them to the needs and requirements of senior citizens. To identify the preferences of seniors in relation to the characteristics of furniture in indoor public spaces, a survey study with 1539 respondents aged 60+ was conducted in Denmark, Finland, Latvia, Poland, Russia and Sweden. The gathered data were coded and implemented to the unified database. The statistical grouping method was used to recognize the characteristics of the needs and attitudes of seniors related to the use of public space furniture. The main variables taken into consideration in the analysis were the age and gender of respondents and their country of living. Among the most important findings are those indicating the necessity to provide the increased number of furniture for sitting in the public spaces and making sure they are not located too far away from each other. As the main disadvantages of public space furniture respondents indicated the lack of armrests or other solutions to facilitate getting up and/or sitting down, as well as profiled backrests that constitute solid support for the spine. The implementation of these data in the process of rethinking and redesigning public spaces may support the adaptation of indoor public furniture according to the requirements of a very large group of customers, namely, seniors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata Fabisiak
- Department of Furniture Design, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- * E-mail:
| | - Anna Jankowska
- Department of Economics and Economic Policy in Agribusiness, Faculty of Economics, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Robert Kłos
- Department of Furniture Design, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Joan Knudsen
- Development Centre UMT, secretariat for Lifestyle & Design Cluster, Herning, Denmark
| | - Catharina Gillsjö
- University of Skövde, School of Health Sciences, Skövde, Sweden
- University of Rhode Island, College of Nursing, Kingston, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Igor Kuprienko
- Project Development Division, ITMO University, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Lyudmila Vidiasova
- e-Governance center, Institute of Design and Urban Studies,, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anja Poberznik
- Satakunta University of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Technology, Pori, Finland
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Moving around a Large City in Latin America: The Mobility Challenges Faced by Older Adults with Disabilities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182412984. [PMID: 34948594 PMCID: PMC8700889 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182412984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A growing body of research has shown that barriers in the urban environment can be disabling by reducing the ability of older people to manage independently in the community, but also because they can negatively affect health by limiting the possibilities to move outside the home. In this study, we ask how obstacles in the urban environment are associated with the need for help to go to places in the community. To respond to this question, we used the Annual Household Survey of the City of Buenos Aires, Argentina 2018, which had a specific questionnaire for people with disabilities. From this sample, we selected adults aged 65 years or older with difficulties in at least one of six domains: vision; hearing; upper and lower body mobility; cognition; self-care; and communication. The final sample consisted of 513 persons (weighted = 109,316). First, we conducted a principal component analysis identifying three factors from variables of obstacles to access and use the urban environment: transportation; outdoor spaces; and information. Second, through a logistic regression model, we observed a direct relationship between these factors and the need for help to move in the community, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics, health status, and number of disabilities. This paper provides evidence on the significance of improving urban spaces to reduce dependent mobility. In Latin America, cities still face many challenges in becoming more age-friendly.
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Versey HS. Perceptions of community among suburban and urban-dwelling adults aging in place. J Aging Stud 2021; 59:100969. [PMID: 34794714 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaging.2021.100969] [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: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Community is important for late-midlife adults, offering a sense of belonging and opportunities for social engagement during the transition to older age. The current study examines perceptions of community and geographical ties among a sample of older adults aging in place. Using data from the Foley Longitudinal Study of Adulthood (FLSA; N = 163; aged 61-64) and a qualitative GIS approach, major themes were categorized and mapped to create a comprehensive picture of how perceptions of community varied among respondents and neighborhoods. Core themes were connections to place, space, people, and relational benefits gained from community involvement. Residents of a suburban enclave more frequently noted connections to people as being important to community, compared to residents in more densely-populated areas. Implications for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Shellae Versey
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, United States of America.
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Lopes PDO, da Silva SR, da Silva TC, Fragoso YD, Zanesco A. Age-friendly city: future perspectives for the Brazilian cities. Dement Neuropsychol 2021; 15:295-298. [PMID: 34630917 PMCID: PMC8485639 DOI: 10.1590/1980-57642021dn15-030001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The world population is aging fast and not all cities are prepared to cope with the needs of the elderly people. Cities need to develop strategies for senior citizens including the aspects of health, nutrition, consumer protection, housing, transportation, environment, social welfare, income, employment, safety, and education. The World Health Organization (WHO) created a program dedicated to older adults called the age-friendly city. This program is about creating the environment and opportunities that enable older people to be and do what they value throughout their lives. Most of the elderly population lives in urban spaces, and aging represents a challenge as well as opportunities to the cities all over the world. Recently, only 16 Brazilian cities have received the seal of international certification by meeting the requirements stipulated by the WHO. In the State of Sao Paulo, only two cities have been qualified for this seal. Therefore, the aims of this article are (a) to provide a brief history of this important initiative taken by the WHO and (b) to urge the decision-makers of Brazilian municipalities to develop effective initiatives for their cities to be prepared for this demographic modification.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simone Rezende da Silva
- Postgraduate Program in Environmental Health, Universidade Metropolitana de Santos - Santos, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Yara Dadalti Fragoso
- Postgraduate Program in Environmental Health, Universidade Metropolitana de Santos - Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Angelina Zanesco
- Postgraduate Program in Environmental Health, Universidade Metropolitana de Santos - Santos, SP, Brazil
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WHO's Global Age-Friendly Cities Guide: Its Implications of a Discussion on Social Exclusion among Older Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18158027. [PMID: 34360319 PMCID: PMC8345595 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18158027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
This study analyzed the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Age-Friendly Cities Guide to observe its role in embodying social inclusion of older adults in attempts to prevent social exclusion. Social exclusion refers to the marginalization of individuals and groups from important economic and social opportunities in the society. Many aging societies are implementing social inclusion of older adults as one of their key policy agendas to create a more sustainable and healthy society, in recognition that age functions as one of the essential factors accelerating social exclusion and declining physical and mental health of those affected. In order to explore the pertinence of the WHO guidelines to social inclusion of older adults, content analysis was conducted on each checklist item in the WHO guideline to identify its relation to the four dimensions of social exclusion, which are social interaction, production, consumption, and political engagement. The results showed comprehensive coverage of each dimension by the guideline, although the relative importance of each dimension was unequal. Additional insights were suggested to promote further social inclusion of older adults in the context of an age-friendly environment.
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Estebsari F, Rahimi Khalifeh Kandi Z, Nasiri M, Moradi Fath M, Karimi Yeganeh F, Mostafaei D. Evaluation of Transportation Infrastructure and Urban Space of Tehran based on The Indicators of Age Friendly. RANIAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH EDUCATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2021; 9:187-200. [DOI: 10.52547/ijhehp.9.2.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
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Menec VH, Newall NEG, Milgrom R, Camps D. Exploring the sustainability of age-friendly initiatives in a Canadian province. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2021; 62:18-28. [PMID: 34117755 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnab080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Based on the WHO Age-friendly Cities and Communities (AFCC) framework, the government of Manitoba, Canada, launched a province-wide age-friendly initiative in 2008. The objective of this study was to explore the sustainability of the AFCC initiative more than a decade later. The study was guided by conceptualizations of sustainability as multi-dimensional and dynamic, composed of four aspects (continued capacity; institutionalization; continued benefits; and development/adaptation), and an ecologic perspective that highlights the importance of contextual influences, and their change over time, on AFCC activities. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The study involved a qualitative, multiple case study design. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in 2020 with a key informant from each of 52 AFCC. Interview data were analyzed deductively, guided by the sustainability framework and an ecologic perspective. Census data was used to describe the demographic characteristics of AFCC. RESULTS We identified six groups of AFCC initiatives that varied in degree from the most to the least sustainable: active; in hiatus; re-organized; stalled; discontinued; and never got off the ground. Both local, community factors (e.g., lack of capacity), and broader contextual factors, such as demographic changes and provincial legislations influenced initiatives' sustainability. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS AFCC initiatives can range in their degree of sustainability, and can wax or wane over time. On-going external support for AFCC (e.g., from provincial or state government) to promote the vision of age-friendliness, and to addresses lack of capacity (e.g., to assist with community assessments) could help with the long-term sustainability of initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena H Menec
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | | | - Richard Milgrom
- Department of City Planning, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Dominique Camps
- Department of City Planning, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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Park SY, Kim M, Chung S. Age-friendly environments and depressive symptoms among Korean adults: The mediating effects of loneliness. Aging Ment Health 2021; 25:1060-1070. [PMID: 32321293 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2020.1755827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this study, we examined (1) group differences with regard to age-friendly environments (AFE), loneliness, and depressive symptoms among younger, middle-aged, and older Korean adults; (2) the relationship of AFE to loneliness and depressive symptoms; and (3) the mediating effect of loneliness on the relationship between AFE and depressive symptoms among three Korean adult groups. METHOD We used a cross-sectional survey design featuring multistage quota sampling. Study participants were 1,017 Korean adults aged 18 years or older. Multi-group structural equation modeling was used for data analysis. RESULTS Statistically significant age group differences were found in the mean values of loneliness and depressive symptoms, but no significant age group differences in the mean values of AFE were observed. Older adults showed a significant relationship between AFE and loneliness, while their younger counterparts demonstrated a significant relationship between AFE and depressive symptoms. The mediating effect of loneliness on the association between AFE and depressive symptoms was found only for the older age group. CONCLUSION The results of the study contribute to the existing understanding of AFE and mental health among Korean adults, while providing service providers and policy makers with fundamental background information on alleviating depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- So-Young Park
- Ewha Institute for Age Integration Research, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Miri Kim
- Department of Social Welfare, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soondool Chung
- Department of Social Welfare, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Morowatisharifabad MA, Tagharrobi L, Jambarsang S, Shavvazi MA. Age-Friendly City Indicators from the Viewpoint of Older Adults in Kashan City, Iran. JOURNAL OF AGING AND ENVIRONMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/26892618.2021.1898075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad ali Morowatisharifabad
- Department of Aging and Health, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Elderly Health Research Center, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Leila Tagharrobi
- Department of Aging and Health, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Elderly Health Research Center, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Sara Jambarsang
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Masumeh Abbasi Shavvazi
- Department of Health Education and Promotion, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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van Hoof J, Marston HR. Age-Friendly Cities and Communities: State of the Art and Future Perspectives. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18041644. [PMID: 33572181 PMCID: PMC7914698 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joost van Hoof
- Faculty of Social Work & Education, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, 2521 EN Den Haag, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Geodesy, Institute of Spatial Management, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-357 Wrocław, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-6-23381404
| | - Hannah R. Marston
- Health & Wellbeing Strategic Research Area, School of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, The Open University, Buckinghamshire MK7 6HH, UK;
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Sengers F, Peine A. Innovation Pathways for Age-Friendly Homes in Europe. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:1139. [PMID: 33525377 PMCID: PMC7908158 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18031139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A variety of innovative pilot projects are being implemented to improve the life-course resilience of existing and newly built home environments. We refer to these projects as "socio-technical experiments" that embody different kinds of promising futures and provide direction to current developments in the emerging domain of age-friendly homes. To take stock of this diversity within Europe; this paper provides an overview of 53 ongoing socio-technical experiments that are being conducted in the Netherlands, France, Ireland and Poland. We find that, besides the variation between European countries, there is a more important type variation in terms of the character of the experiments themselves and the differences in development direction that they propose. Our findings suggest that most of the innovations tested in these experiments are not primarily material or technical but primarily social or conceptual in character (i.e., new organizational modes or everyday practices that re-arrange social relations or new housing concepts that bridge the divide between ageing in place individually and a nursing home). This variety of innovations tested in the experiments can be categorized into seven distinct innovation pathways: (1) Showcasing Technology, (2) Innovation Ecosystem, (3) Sheltered Elite, (4) Specific Community, (5) Conscious Retrofitting, (6) Home Sharing and (7) Retrovation Challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frans Sengers
- Athena Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, de Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander Peine
- Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University, Princetonlaan 8a, 3584 CB Utrecht, The Netherlands;
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Moving from the Margins: Towards an Inclusive Urban Representation of Older People in Zimbabwe’s Policy Discourse. SOCIETIES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/soc11010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Population ageing has become a major global demographic shift but perhaps less noticeable in the Global South. Zimbabwe, like many African countries, is experiencing and will continue to witness an increase in older age, hence questioning its readiness to handle such change. Ageing in Zimbabwe is currently occurring in the context of increasing poverty, political unrest, changing family structures, and weakening infrastructures. Despite this, Zimbabwe is committed to promoting change and betterment for its citizens through adherence to international agendas and national development strategies. However, the first step towards the realisation of an inclusive urban environment begins with a fair representation of the various actors and social groups. This review paper is aimed at examining the representation of Zimbabwe’s older people, a subject that has rarely been the focus of critical analysis, concentrating on the political discourse in urban development programmes. A sample of 45 international and national policy documents published post-2002, was carefully selected and inspected to determine the level of presence of older people using discourse analysis. The findings reveal that in the context of the efforts made towards a Zimbabwe that is inclusive of all citizens, the idea of older persons as subjects of rights and active participants has yet to truly gain sufficient currency. There is a dominance of a one-dimensional perspective across the majority of the publications, with older people constructed as “dependent”, “vulnerable” and “passive”, overseeing vital contributions to society. A realistic and more empowering representation of this social group, showing them as active caregivers rather than passive recipients is therefore a necessity if Zimbabwe is to fulfil its vision of inclusivity.
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Marston HR, Niles-Yokum K, Silva PA. A Commentary on Blue Zones ®: A Critical Review of Age-Friendly Environments in the 21st Century and Beyond. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18020837. [PMID: 33478140 PMCID: PMC7844621 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18020837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This paper explores the intersection of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) concepts of age-friendly communities and The Blue Zones® checklists and how the potential of integrating the two frameworks for the development of a contemporary framework can address the current gaps in the literature as well as consider the inclusion of technology and environmental press. The commentary presented here sets out initial thoughts and explorations that have the potential to impact societies on a global scale and provides recommendations for a roadmap to consider new ways to think about the impact of health and wellbeing of older adults and their families. Additionally, this paper highlights both the strengths and the weaknesses of the aforementioned checklists and frameworks by examining the literature including the WHO age-friendly framework, the smart age-friendly ecosystem (SAfE) framework and the Blue Zones® checklists. We argue that gaps exist in the current literature and take a critical approach as a way to be inclusive of technology and the environments in which older adults live. This commentary contributes to the fields of gerontology, gerontechnology, anthropology, and geography, because we are proposing a roadmap which sets out the need for future work which requires multi- and interdisciplinary research to be conducted for the respective checklists to evolve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah R. Marston
- Health & Wellbeing Strategic Research Area, School of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, The Open University, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK7 6HH, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Kelly Niles-Yokum
- Department of Health and Public Management, College of Business & Public Management, University of La Verne, La Verne, CA 91750, USA;
| | - Paula Alexandra Silva
- Centre for Informatics and Systems (CISUC), Department of Informatics Engineering (DEI), University of Coimbra, 3030-290 Coimbra, Portugal;
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Klasa K, Galaitsi S, Wister A, Linkov I. System models for resilience in gerontology: application to the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Geriatr 2021; 21:51. [PMID: 33446109 PMCID: PMC7807229 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-020-01965-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The care needs for aging adults are increasing burdens on health systems around the world. Efforts minimizing risk to improve quality of life and aging have proven moderately successful, but acute shocks and chronic stressors to an individual's systemic physical and cognitive functions may accelerate their inevitable degradations. A framework for resilience to the challenges associated with aging is required to complement on-going risk reduction policies, programs and interventions. Studies measuring resilience among the elderly at the individual level have not produced a standard methodology. Moreover, resilience measurements need to incorporate external structural and system-level factors that determine the resources that adults can access while recovering from aging-related adversities. We use the National Academies of Science conceptualization of resilience for natural disasters to frame resilience for aging adults. This enables development of a generalized theory of resilience for different individual and structural contexts and populations, including a specific application to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Klasa
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Stephanie Galaitsi
- United States Army Corps of Engineers, Engineering Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, USA
| | - Andrew Wister
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada.
| | - Igor Linkov
- United States Army Corps of Engineers, Engineering Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, USA
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Lak A, Rashidghalam P, Amiri SN, Myint PK, Baradaran HR. An ecological approach to the development of an active aging measurement in urban areas (AAMU). BMC Public Health 2021; 21:4. [PMID: 33388040 PMCID: PMC7778809 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-10036-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An essential element in the process of "aging well" is the concept of Active Aging (AA). To propose an operational definition of Active Aging, the present study seeks to develop a new measurement tool through an ecological approach. The aim is to recognize significant indicators that play a role in assessing AA in urban areas. METHODS This study was conducted through a two-phase process of consensus-building: 1) identifying a set of indicators that were likely candidates for inclusion based on literature review, and 2) a two-round modified Delphi survey using an international panel of academic experts in environmental sciences and gerontology to achieve consensus on the importance of the extracted indicators and validate the items. The panelists were asked to complete a researcher-developed questionnaire with an 11-point Likert scale based on the indicators derived in phase 1. Finally, the Delphi survey's valid indicators and criteria were utilized to develop the measurement tool. RESULTS At the outset, a list of 111 indicators of AA was prepared through the desk study. A panel of 22 experts reviewed the extracted items and arrived at a consensus on 99 items in the first round and finalised in the second round. Thematic analysis of the panelists' open-ended responses revealed new concepts that would be explicitly considered by the consensus group. This developed measurement scale consists of five domains, i.e., individual, spatial, socio-economic, governance, and health-related, which contain 15 criteria and 99 indicators. CONCLUSIONS The present researchers have developed the active aging measure for urban settlements (AAMU), which can be used both by policy-makers and as an informal self-reported statement among the elderly. AAM's results in the elderly's residential environmental communities can improve policy-making to address urban design to sustain an active, healthy life among older people in urban environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Lak
- Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, 1983963113 Iran
| | - Parichehr Rashidghalam
- Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, 1983963113 Iran
| | - S. Nouroddin Amiri
- Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Khalij-e- Fars University, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Phyo K. Myint
- Ageing Clinical & Experimental Research Team, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Hamid R. Baradaran
- Ageing Clinical & Experimental Research Team, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Influence of the health status and other contributing factors on quality of life of the older people. VOJNOSANIT PREGL 2021. [DOI: 10.2298/vsp210217033v] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction/Aim: Aim of the study was to investigate influence of the health
status as well as other contributing factors on perceived quality of life of
the older people in Belgrade. Methods: The survey was conducted in October
2019 on a representative sample of 764 people aged between 65 and 79 years
(X = 72.68 ? 7.11), (39.9% male and 60.1% female) living in Belgrade. The
research used a questionnaire developed on the basis of the World Health
Organization methodology for age friendly cities, aimed to explore 11 areas
important for the elderly. Results: Factor of physical accessibility of
community is highly significant [?2 (df = 3, n = 764) = 238.905; p < 0.001]
and explained 39.4% of variance of perceived quality of life, while
socio-economic factors show the same amount of variance, 35.0% [?2 (df = 3,
n = 764) = 207.571; p < 0.001]. Social environment explains 24.6% of
variance of perceived quality of life [?2 (df = 4, n = 764) = 140.242; p <
0.001]. Health status has greatest explanatory power regarding perceived
quality of life and explain as much as 46.7% of variance [?2 (df = 8, n =
764) = 292.083; p < 0.001]. When unique impact of health status on quality
of life is analyzed, when other variables are controlled, health status
explains 21.6% of variance in addition to variance explained by physical
accessibility, socio-economic status and social environment. Conclusion:
Although health status has the greatest impact on perceived quality of life
of older people, interventions on other life important domains such as
physical accessibility, socio-economic status and social environment could
have positive impact on perceived quality of life where health status alone
could not be improved.
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Ronzi S, Orton L, Buckner S, Bruce N, Pope D. How is Respect and Social Inclusion Conceptualised by Older Adults in an Aspiring Age-Friendly City? A Photovoice Study in the North-West of England. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17249246. [PMID: 33321914 PMCID: PMC7764117 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17249246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Age-Friendly Cities (AFC) Guide classifies key characteristics of an AFC according to eight domains. Whilst much age-friendly practice and research have focused on domains of the physical environment, those related to the social environment have received less attention. Using a Photovoice methodology within a Community-Based Participatory Research approach, our study draws on photographs, interviews and focus groups among 26 older Liverpool residents (60+ years) to explore how the city promotes respect and social inclusion (a core WHO AFC domain). Being involved in this photovoice study allowed older adults across four contrasting neighbourhoods to communicate their perspectives directly to Liverpool’s policymakers, service providers and third sector organisations. This paper provides novel insights into how: (i) respect and social inclusion are shaped by aspects of both physical and social environment, and (ii) the accessibility, affordability and sociability of physical spaces and wider social processes (e.g., neighbourhood fragmentation) contributed to or hindered participants’ health, wellbeing, intergenerational relationships and feelings of inclusion and connection. Our findings suggest that respect and social inclusion are relevant across all eight domains of the WHO AFC Guide. It is core to an AFC and should be reflected in both city-based policies and evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ronzi
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1H 9SH, UK
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3DT, UK; (L.O.); (N.B.); (D.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Lois Orton
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3DT, UK; (L.O.); (N.B.); (D.P.)
- Department of Sociological Studies, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TU, UK
| | - Stefanie Buckner
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK;
| | - Nigel Bruce
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3DT, UK; (L.O.); (N.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Daniel Pope
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3DT, UK; (L.O.); (N.B.); (D.P.)
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Blakey J, Clews J. Knowing, Being and Co-Constructing an Age-Friendly Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17239136. [PMID: 33297454 PMCID: PMC7730679 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17239136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
A third of Aotearoa New Zealand’s increasingly ageing population resides in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. This most populous cosmopolitan urban area in the country is also home to the largest Polynesian population of any global city. Sprawling across a North Island isthmus inclusive of Hauraki Gulf islands, 70% of the city region is rural, whilst almost 90% of the ethnically diverse residents live in urban areas. Members of Auckland Council’s Seniors Advisory Panel (SAP) advocated for, and in 2018 secured unanimous support from the governing body to resource an Age-friendly City (AFC) Project. This case study inquiry applied bricolage methodology to provide diverse contextual perspectives of this unique Polynesian setting, prior to exploring interview narratives of three SAP members who served two consecutive terms (six years) as AFC advocates. Weaving insights gleaned from their interview transcripts responding to relational leadership prompts about their age-friendly advocacy with the findings from the council’s AFC Community Engagement report highlighted the achievements and challenges of the evolving AFC Project. Service-learning recommendations include co-developing: (1) A sustainable co-governance framework for an independent steering group that embodies the values and principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi to enable empowered active ageing for all residents; (2) A succession plan that enables the timely transfer of knowledge and skills to empower incoming SAP members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judy Blakey
- Comprehensive Care PHO, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
- Correspondence:
| | - Janet Clews
- The Trusts Community Foundation Ltd., Auckland 0650, New Zealand;
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Sterns AA, Sterns HL, Walter A. Prioritizing Age-Friendly Domains for Transforming a Mid-Sized American City. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17239103. [PMID: 33291242 PMCID: PMC7729632 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17239103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In May 2019, the city of Akron in the state of Ohio was admitted into AARP’s network of age friendly cities and communities. Akron has a long history of aging services initiative that date back to the 1970s. To provide direction for future aging initiatives, an assessment of Akron’s current state was conducted in early 2020. A survey designed to capture information on the eight Age-friendly domains was designed and mailed to 3000 randomized individuals in Akron’s ten political wards. A total of 656 individuals responded and returned the survey. Akron is rated good to excellent by older Akronites; people want to stay in their neighborhood and in their home. Most Akronites like and use their neighborhood parks, find their streets well-lit, and feel safe walking in their neighborhood. Most respondents rated transportation in Akron as good to very good, but they found sidewalks good to poor. There is a high level of access to social and educational activities and a substantial opportunity to include more people. About two-thirds of respondents participate in faith-based activities, volunteer, and participate in city-sponsored events. Loneliness is not or rarely a problem for three quarters of respondents. Around 56.5% of respondents indicated they disagree they are disconnected from the community. There is high level of access to the Internet and public WiFi in Akron and a substantial opportunity to include more people. Overall, Akron has benefitted from its historical efforts and has the opportunity to impact on more older adults as the older population grows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony A. Sterns
- iRxReminder LLC, 1768 E. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44114, USA
- Business Administration, School of Professional Studies, City University of New York, New York, NY 10001, USA
- Management Information Systems, College of Business Administration, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-330-606-6675
| | - Harvey L. Sterns
- Institute for Life-Span Development and Gerontology, Professor Emeritus, Department of Psychology, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA;
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED), 4209 St. Rt. 44, P.O. Box 95, Rootstown, OH 44272, USA
| | - Ann Walter
- Consortium of Eastern Ohio Master of Public Health Program, Cleveland State University, 2121 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA;
- Medical Mutual of Ohio, 2060 E 9th Street, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA
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Fabisiak B, Jankowska A, Kłos R. Attitudes of Polish Seniors toward the Use of Public Space during the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E8885. [PMID: 33260396 PMCID: PMC7729857 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17238885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The number of seniors rises worldwide. The lockdown of public institutions caused by COVID-19 influenced the lives of many of them. In the new reality, owners and managers of public spaces need to rethink the way they provide their services, and redesign public spaces to meet the needs of senior citizens. This requires the recognition of the needs of seniors concerning the use of public spaces in the times of the COVID-19 hazard. To investigate this issue, survey studies with 1000 respondents aged 65+ were conducted. The implementation of the obtained data in the process of redesigning public spaces may facilitate the opening up after the lockdown. Taking into account the requirements of a very large group of citizens being seniors is crucial, as it was found that 55% of respondents will also be afraid to use public spaces after the COVID-19 lockdown. The selected ideas that could minimize the feeling of fear when using public spaces after the lockdown were evaluated by seniors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata Fabisiak
- Department of Furniture Design, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Anna Jankowska
- Department of Economics and Economic Policy in Agribusiness, Faculty of Economics, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Robert Kłos
- Department of Furniture Design, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznań, Poland;
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