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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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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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Ma T, de Leeuw E, Proust K, Newell B, Clapham K, Kobel C, Ivers R. Using systems thinking to assess the functioning of an "Age-Friendly City" governance network in Australia. Health Promot Int 2022; 37:6661158. [PMID: 35950893 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac076] [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: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-Friendly Cities (AFC) is a framework for promoting healthy ageing through local actions. We use systems thinking to assess potential outcomes of actions to support older people's mobility, undertaken within an AFC commitment in Greater Sydney. Interviews with 20 informants involved in providing space, infrastructure, or services that affect how older people get around were analysed using causal loop diagrams (CLDs). Four approaches to support older people's mobility were identified and situated to the Multiple Governance Framework: land use, open and public space, supplementary transport, and community transport. Analysis revealed potential for unwanted consequences associated with each, which can be generalised into three generic potential outcomes for other jurisdictions to consider. A recommendation from this research is for policy actors to examine feedback interactions between actions so that they can foresee a wider range of outcomes and take defensive action against those unwanted. By situating CLDs within the Multiple Governance Framework, this research not only identifies what to look for, in terms of potential outcomes, but also where to look, in terms of the level of decision-making. This research offers a new way to assess the functioning of AFC governance networks by their collective outcomes and challenges the standards for the evaluation of AFC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey Ma
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Evelyne de Leeuw
- Centre for Health Equity Training, Research and Evaluation (CHETRE), UNSW, SWSLHD, and Ingham Institute, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Katrina Proust
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, The Australian National University, Acton, ACT, Australia
| | - Barry Newell
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, The Australian National University, Acton, ACT, Australia
| | - Kathleen Clapham
- Australian Health Services Research Institute (AHSRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Conrad Kobel
- Australian Health Services Research Institute (AHSRI), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Rebecca Ivers
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Pestine-Stevens A, Greenfield EA. Giving, Receiving, and Doing Together: Interorganizational Interactions in Age-Friendly Community Initiatives. J Aging Soc Policy 2022; 34:218-236. [PMID: 35083959 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2021.2024412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Multi-sectoral collaboration is widely considered essential for age-friendly community change; however, there has been little empirical research to describe the ways in which organizations interact as part of age-friendly community initiatives (AFCIs). We conducted a qualitative descriptive study using data from multiple waves of semi-structured interviews with core teams of eight grant-funded AFCIs in the north-eastern U.S. We employed iterative, inductive coding to systematically describe ways in which AFCI core teams described working with other organizational entities. Findings indicated two overarching themes: (a) helping each other (giving and receiving linking, informational, and instrumental assistance), and (b) doing something together (organizing community events, planning collaborative projects, participating in meetings). We discuss the implications of this characterization for guiding research, evaluation, and policy to optimize AFCI implementation and impact across diverse settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Althea Pestine-Stevens
- Research Project Coordinator, School of Social Work, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Emily A Greenfield
- Professor, School of Social Work, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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Older people's lived experience and the World Health Organization age-friendly policy framework: a critical examination of an age-friendly county programme in Ireland. AGEING & SOCIETY 2021. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x21001355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Developing age-friendly communities is a significant global policy issue. The World Health Organization's (WHO) age-friendly cities and communities initiative significantly influenced the development of Ireland's Age-friendly Programme. This article critically examines the utilisation of the WHO age-friendly planning framework in the context of Ireland. It explores older adults’ experience of living in a county which is currently implementing an age-friendly programme, and uses this analysis to assess how the age-friendly programme addresses older residents’ needs, and to illustrate how the WHO conceptual and planning framework has worked in Ireland. The article reports on a qualitative case study which used constructivist grounded theory to explore the lived experience of older adults. The research identifies salient social and cultural dimensions of the day-to-day lived experience of older people which, although they impact on the age-friendliness of the places in which they live, are downplayed or neglected in the WHO framework. In critically analysing the transfer and relevance of the WHO age-friendly model in light of broader issues such as diversity of place, the dynamic nature of person–place relations, and the interplay between age-friendly policy and other age-related public policy, the article suggests ways in which the use of the WHO framework can be modified to accommodate better the diverse experience of older adults in Ireland, but also in other geographic and cultural contexts.
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Coyle CE, Gleason SR, Mutchler JE. Spillover benefits and achieving sustainability of age-friendly communities. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2021; 62:29-35. [PMID: 33982096 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnab060] [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: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As the age-friendly movement grows in its second decade, urgent questions of initiative sustainability have taken hold in the academic literature and among advocates implementing age-friendly changes. The creation of authentically age-inclusive environments requires not just the continuation of the initiative, but that its principles become embedded in formal and informal organizational processes, across sectors and beyond familiar networks focused on older populations. This embedding ensures the initiative's values take root permanently in a community's institutional culture. This paper argues that sustainability of age-friendly initiatives is enhanced by "spillover" effects, in which a behavioral or policy change in one environment spurs change in another environment. Evidence for such spillover and an understanding of how and when it occurs is currently limited in the context of age-friendly environments. This paper draws on the experiences of Age-Friendly Boston, which has been working towards age-friendly goals for more than five years. Based on Boston's experience, we identify, describe, and exemplify three pathways to positive spillover across environments: 1) branding positively; 2) publicizing successes; and 3) embarking on new relationships, while strengthening existing ones, in pursuit of shared goals. We also draw conclusions about what positive spillover means for the sustainability of age-friendly environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E Coyle
- Department of Gerontology and Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging, Gerontology Institute, John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy & Global Studies, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shayna R Gleason
- Department of Gerontology and Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging, Gerontology Institute, John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy & Global Studies, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jan E Mutchler
- Department of Gerontology and Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging, Gerontology Institute, John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy & Global Studies, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Kim K, Buckley T, Burnette D, Kim S, Cho S. Measurement Indicators of Age-Friendly Communities: Findings from the AARP Age-Friendly Community Survey. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2021; 62:e17-e27. [PMID: 33909074 PMCID: PMC8759505 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnab055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Cities and counties worldwide have adopted the concept of "age-friendly communities." These communities aspire to promote older adults' well-being by providing a safe, affordable built environment and a social environment that encourages their participation. A major limitation in this field is the lack of valid and reliable measures that capture the complex dimensionality and dynamic nature of the aging-environment interface. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS This study uses data from the AARP 2016 Age-Friendly Community Surveys (N=3,652 adults ages 65 and older). The survey includes 62 indicators of age-friendliness, e g., outdoor spaces, transportation, housing, social participation, and community and health services. We randomly split the sample into two equal subsamples for confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM). RESULTS CFA results indicated that both the five-factor model and the second-order factor model adequately fit the data. In the SEM five-factor model, outdoor space (β=.134; p=.017), social participation (β=.307; p<.001), and community and health services (β=-.149; p=.008) were associated with self-rated health, the outcome of interest. The path coefficients of housing and transportation were not significant. In the second-order factor model, people who lived in more age-friendly communities reported better self-rated health (β=.295; p<.001). DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings show that the Age-Friendly Community Survey measures demonstrate reliability and concurrent validity. To promote older adults' well-being, practitioners, policymakers, and researchers should focus on improving their built and social environments. They can use these measures for short- and long-term planning, monitoring, and evaluating age-friendly community initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyeongmo Kim
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Tommy Buckley
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Denise Burnette
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Seon Kim
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Sunghwan Cho
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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Neville S, Napier S, Shannon K, Adams J. Beginning on an age-friendly journey: Barriers to implementing age-friendly initiatives. Australas J Ageing 2021; 40:e287-e293. [PMID: 33724675 PMCID: PMC9292772 DOI: 10.1111/ajag.12930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective To explore the barriers to communities in New Zealand developing age‐friendly initiatives. Methods A qualitative participatory approach underpinned this study. Semi‐structured digitally recorded individual interviews were undertaken with 24 government officials, local government steering group members and community representatives from an urban city, provincial city and a rural district. A general inductive data analytic process was undertaken. The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) guidelines were followed to ensure rigour in this study. Results (a) Being at the beginning, (b) Minimal diversity and (c) Problems getting started were three key issues identified. Conclusions New Zealand is in the early stages of becoming age‐friendly. Findings from this study provide a place‐based New Zealand perspective and have influenced central government social policy and practice development, culminating in resources supporting local government and communities to successfully implement age‐friendly initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Neville
- Department of Nursing, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sara Napier
- School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kay Shannon
- Department of Nursing, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jeffery Adams
- Shore and Whariki Research Centre, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
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Characterising older adults’ engagement in age-friendly community initiatives: perspectives from core group leaders in the Northeast United States of America. AGEING & SOCIETY 2020. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x2000166x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Researchers and programme champions alike have identified older adults as key contributors to age-friendly community change efforts. There has been very little scholarship, however, to characterise the nature of older adults’ engagement in age-friendly community initiatives (AFCIs). To help address this gap, we drew on five waves of data from semi-structured interviews with core group members of eight AFCIs in a Northeast region of the United States of America. Interviews were conducted as part of a multi-year, community-engaged study on the development of philanthropically supported AFCIs. We iteratively coded segments of the interviews in which core group members described the involvement of older adults, as well as their efforts to engage older adults in the initiatives. This analysis resulted in an inductive-analytic typology with five qualitatively distinct categories, including older adults as: (a) consumers (receiving information, goods and services through the AFCI), (b) informants (sharing perspectives on ageing in the community with the core group), (c) task assistants (assisting with project-oriented tasks under the direction of the core group), (d) champions (contributing ideas and implementing action on their own initiative), and (e) core group members (holding primary responsibility for driving the work of the AFCI forward). We discuss implications of the typology for research on AFCI implementation and evaluation, as well as opportunities for AFCIs to enhance the engagement of older adults from historically marginalised groups.
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10
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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: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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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Colibaba A, McCrillis E, Skinner MW. Exploring rural older adult perspectives on the scope, reach and sustainability of age-friendly programs. J Aging Stud 2020; 55:100898. [PMID: 33272458 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaging.2020.100898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Research into the sustainability of age-friendly initiatives is important and timely, particularly from the rather neglected perspective of older adults living in non-metropolitan (rural) environments. This paper addresses this gap by reporting on a Canadian rural community case study to understand the perspectives of older adults on the implementation and sustainability of their local age-friendly program. Findings from exploratory interviews with 10 older adults suggest that rural age-friendly initiatives may be limited in their ability to achieve larger-scale outcomes aimed at addressing broad aging issues facing rural communities. Further, our findings demonstrate that those 'aging in place' may continue to do so with the support of age-friendly programing, while those 'stuck in place' are largely unaffected by age-friendly programs. We advocate for additional in-depth examinations of rural age-friendly sustainability, including a greater emphasis on the diversity of older adult perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Colibaba
- Trent Centre for Aging & Society, Trent University, 1600 West Bank Drive, Peterborough, Ontario K9L 0G2, Canada.
| | - Elizabeth McCrillis
- Department of Psychology, Trent University, 1600 West Bank Drive, Peterborough, Ontario K9L 0G2, Canada.
| | - Mark W Skinner
- Trent School of the Environment, Trent University, 1600 West Bank Drive, Peterborough, Ontario K9L 0G2, Canada.
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Emerging evolution trends of studies on age-friendly cities and communities: a scientometric review. AGEING & SOCIETY 2020. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x20000562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AbstractPopulation ageing, together with urbanisation, has become one of the greatest challenges throughout the world in the 21st century. Approximately one million people turn 60 each month worldwide. By 2050, more than 20 per cent of the global population is predicted to be 60 years old or above. Thus, an increasing need is evident for age-friendly communities, services and structures. Numerous studies on age-friendly cities and communities (AFCCs) have been conducted over the past decade. The large volume literature makes it necessary to figure out key areas and the evolution trends of studies on AFCCs. Therefore, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of existing literature pertaining to AFCCs. A total of 231 collected publications are analysed and visualised by CiteSpace. According to the keywords and document co-citation networks that are generated, the foundation, hot topics and domains of AFCC research are grouped. Three major themes, namely the characteristics of AFCCs, the application of the World Health Organization's framework in urban and rural areas worldwide, and the measurement of cities’ and communities’ age-friendliness, are identified. In addition, a roadmap of AFCC research is developed. The results of this research will therefore benefit researchers and practitioners.
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Flores R, Caballer A, Alarcón A. Evaluation of an Age-Friendly City and Its Effect on Life Satisfaction: A Two-Stage Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E5073. [PMID: 31842329 PMCID: PMC6950445 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16245073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Due to the ageing of the world's population, age-friendly cities are emerging to promote active ageing by optimising opportunities for health, participation and safety, in order to improve the quality of life of older people. Despite initiatives in different countries, there is a lack of empirical research exploring their impact on older people. The objective of this study is to evaluate an age-friendly city by analysing its relationship with life satisfaction, taking into account the age cohort variables of the elderly and whether they live alone or with someone else. A two-stage study, in which 66 subjects participated in the qualitative analysis (focus groups) in Stage I and 203 of the quantitative analysis (survey methodology) or Stage II. Despite the differences found in the different groups of elderly persons, for all of them the domains of outdoor spaces and buildings, and community support and health services, are significantly related to life satisfaction, with the latter showing itself to be a predictor of such satisfaction. It is important to take into account the different groups of elderly persons, so as to be able to establish suitable specific actions. This study aims to make a contribution to the development of public policies that influence the life satisfaction of the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Flores
- Department of Developmental, Educational and Social Psychology and Methodology. Universitat Jaume I, Castellón 12071, Spain; (A.C.); (A.A.)
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Russell E, Skinner MW, Fowler K. Emergent Challenges and Opportunities to Sustaining Age-friendly Initiatives: Qualitative Findings from a Canadian Age-friendly Funding Program. J Aging Soc Policy 2019; 34:198-217. [DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2019.1636595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Russell
- Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark W. Skinner
- Dean of Social Sciences, Professor and Canada Research Chair in Rural Aging, Health and Social Care, Trent School of the Environment, Trent University, Peterborough, Canada
| | - Ken Fowler
- Professor, Department Head, Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Canada
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Chesser S, Porter M. Charting a future for Canada's first Age-Friendly University (AFU). GERONTOLOGY & GERIATRICS EDUCATION 2019; 40:153-165. [PMID: 30763180 DOI: 10.1080/02701960.2019.1579716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Situated within a Canadian context, but with implications for a broad range of institutional settings, this paper describes the events that preceded the adoption of the Age-Friendly University (AFU) framework at the University of Manitoba (U of M), as well as the specific strategies being employed within the university to assess and encourage age-friendliness. These include: a) the university's Centre on Aging and its mandate to foster interdisciplinary age-related research and community dialogue, b) the creation of an interdisciplinary AFU committee and several working groups, c) innovative research projects that have assessed university age-friendliness from a variety of stakeholder perspectives, and d) an interactive undergraduate course activity being used to educate students about AFU features. Present and future AFU challenge areas and potential solutions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Chesser
- a Centre on Aging , University of Manitoba , Winnipeg , Manitoba , Canada
| | - Michelle Porter
- b Centre on Aging, Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management , University of Manitoba , Winnipeg , Manitoba , Canada
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Menec V, Brown C. Facilitators and Barriers to Becoming Age-Friendly: A Review. J Aging Soc Policy 2018; 34:175-197. [DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2018.1528116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Verena Menec
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Cara Brown
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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Hewson JA, Kwan C, Shaw M, Lai DWL. Developing Age-Friendly Social Participation Strategies: Service Providers’ Perspectives about Organizational and Sector Readiness for Aging Baby Boomers. ACTIVITIES, ADAPTATION & AGING 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/01924788.2017.1398034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Crystal Kwan
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Marta Shaw
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Daniel W. L. Lai
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
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Ronzi S, Orton L, Pope D, Valtorta NK, Bruce NG. What is the impact on health and wellbeing of interventions that foster respect and social inclusion in community-residing older adults? A systematic review of quantitative and qualitative studies. Syst Rev 2018; 7:26. [PMID: 29382375 PMCID: PMC5789687 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-018-0680-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many interventions have been developed to promote respect and social inclusion among older people, but the evidence on their impacts on health has not been synthesised. This systematic review aims to appraise the state of the evidence across the quantitative and qualitative literature. METHODS Eligible studies published between 1990 and 2015 were identified by scanning seven bibliographic databases using a pre-piloted strategy, searching grey literature and contacting experts. Studies were included if they assessed the impact (quantitatively) and/or perceived impact (qualitatively) of an intervention promoting respect and social inclusion on the physical or mental health of community-residing people aged 60 years and older. Titles and abstracts were screened for eligibility by one reviewer. A second reviewer independently screened a 10% random sample. Full texts were screened for eligibility by one reviewer, with verification by another reviewer. Risk of bias was assessed using standardised tools. Findings were summarised using narrative synthesis, harvest plots and logic models to depict the potential pathways to health outcomes. RESULTS Of the 27,354 records retrieved, 40 studies (23 quantitative, 6 qualitative, 11 mixed methods) were included. All studies were conducted in high and upper middle-income countries. Interventions involved mentoring, intergenerational and multi-activity programmes, dancing, music and singing, art and culture and information-communication technology. Most studies (n = 24) were at high or moderate risk of bias. Music and singing, intergenerational interventions, art and culture and multi-activity interventions were associated with an overall positive impact on health outcomes. This included depression (n = 3), wellbeing (n = 3), subjective health (n = 2), quality of life (n = 2), perceived stress and mental health (n = 2) and physical health (n = 2). Qualitative studies offered explanations for mediating factors (e.g. improved self-esteem) that may lead to improved health outcomes and contributed to the assessment of causation. CONCLUSIONS Whilst this review suggests that some interventions may positively impact on the health outcomes of older people, and identified mediating factors to health outcomes, the evidence is based on studies with heterogeneous methodologies. Many of the interventions were delivered as projects to selected groups, raising important questions about the feasibility of wider implementation and the potential for population-wide benefits. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration number CRD42014010107.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Ronzi
- Department of Public Health and Policy, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - L. Orton
- Department of Public Health and Policy, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - D. Pope
- Department of Public Health and Policy, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - N. K. Valtorta
- Institute for Ageing, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - N. G. Bruce
- Department of Public Health and Policy, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Menec VH. Conceptualizing Social Connectivity in the Context of Age-Friendly Communities. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/02763893.2017.1309926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Verena H. Menec
- Department of Community Health Sciences, The University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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20
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Lehning AJ, Greenfield EA. Research on Age-Friendly Community Initiatives: Taking Stock and Moving Forward. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/02763893.2017.1309937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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21
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Winterton R. Organizational Responsibility for Age-Friendly Social Participation: Views of Australian Rural Community Stakeholders. J Aging Soc Policy 2016; 28:261-76. [PMID: 26881483 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2016.1145504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This qualitative study critically explores the barriers experienced by diverse rural community stakeholders in facilitating environments that enable age-friendly social participation. Twenty-six semi-structured interviews were conducted across two rural Australian communities with stakeholders from local government, health, social care, and community organizations. Findings identify that rural community stakeholders face significant difficulties in securing resources for groups and activities catering to older adults, which subsequently impacts their capacity to undertake outreach to older adults. However, in discussing these issues, questions were raised in relation to whose responsibility it is to provide resources for community groups and organizations providing social initiatives and whose responsibility it is to engage isolated seniors. These findings provide a much-needed critical perspective on current age-friendly research by acknowledging the responsibilities of various macro-level social structures-different community-level organizations, local government, and policy in fostering environments to enable participation of diverse rural older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Winterton
- a Research Fellow, John Richards Initiative, Australian Institute for Primary Care & Ageing, College of Science, Health and Engineering , La Trobe University , Wodonga , Victoria , Australia
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22
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Plouffe L, Kalache A, Voelcker I. A Critical Review of the WHO Age-Friendly Cities Methodology and Its Implementation. INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVES ON AGING 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-24031-2_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
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23
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The Effectiveness of Healthy Community Approaches on Positive Health Outcomes in Canada and the United States. SOCIAL SCIENCES-BASEL 2015. [DOI: 10.3390/socsci5010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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24
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Brasher K, Winterton R. Whose Responsibility? Challenges to Creating an Age-Friendly Victoria in the Wider Australian Policy Context. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-24031-2_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
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25
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Menec VH, Brown CL, Newall NEG, Nowicki S. How Important Is Having Amenities Within Walking Distance to Middle-Aged and Older Adults, and Does the Perceived Importance Relate to Walking? J Aging Health 2015. [PMID: 26220882 DOI: 10.1177/0898264315597352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined how important walking to amenities (e.g., food store, park) is to middle-aged and older adults and whether this relates to walking. The relationship between walking to amenities and overall activity level was also explored. METHOD The study was based on interviews conducted with 778 individuals aged 45 to 94 years. Overall activity level was measured objectively using pedometers. RESULTS A large proportion of participants did not think it was very important to have amenities within walking distance, and the majority of participants drove to get there, even among individuals who reported it was very important to have the amenities within walking distance. Self-reported walking to certain amenities (e.g., park) was associated with overall activity. DISCUSSION The study underscores the impact of a car culture where the tendency to drive is paramount. It suggests the need to promote the importance of walking as part of an active, healthy lifestyle.
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26
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Menec V, Bell S, Novek S, Minnigaleeva GA, Morales E, Ouma T, Parodi JF, Winterton R. Making Rural and Remote Communities More Age-Friendly: Experts’ Perspectives on Issues, Challenges, and Priorities. J Aging Soc Policy 2015; 27:173-91. [DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2014.995044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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27
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Menec VH, Newall NEG, Nowicki S. Assessing Communities’ Age-Friendliness. J Appl Gerontol 2014; 35:549-65. [DOI: 10.1177/0733464814542612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 06/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The notion of age-friendliness is gaining increasing attention from policy makers and researchers. In this study, we examine the congruence between two types of age-friendly surveys: subjective assessments by community residents versus objective assessments by municipal officials. The study was based on data from 39 mostly rural communities in Manitoba, Canada, in which a municipal official and residents ( M = 25 residents per community) completed a survey to assess age-friendly features in a range of domains, such as transportation and housing. Congruence between the two surveys was generally good, although the municipal official survey consistently overestimated communities’ age-friendliness, relative to residents’ ratings. The findings suggest that a survey completed by municipal officials can provide a reasonable assessment of age-friendliness that may be useful for certain purposes, such as cross-community comparisons. However, some caution is warranted when using only these surveys for community development, as they may not adequately reflect residents’ views.
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