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Yu X, Wang Q. A study on the factors influencing old age identity among the Chinese elderly. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1027678. [PMID: 36684889 PMCID: PMC9853900 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1027678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Old age identity is the self-perception of when old age begins, reflects public age values and acceptance of aging. Not all elderly people aged 60 and above identify with their old age status. The aging society in the traditional sense may not be "aging". Therefore, redefining old age is crucial. Different from Western countries, China is a country with a long-standing culture of respect for the elderly and filial piety norms, and the influence of the cultural background on the old age identity is worthy of attention. Data and method Data were drawn from the 2014 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS). A total of 7400 participants answered questions about old age identity. Based on old age identity, we obtained two other types of indicators of perceived old age: elderly group identity and aging degree. For the continuous variable old age identity and aging degree, an OLS linear regression model was established. A binary logistic regression model was established for the binary variable elderly group identity. Result The average old age identity of Chinese people aged 60 and above is 70 years. Health status, psychological status, behavior, socioeconomic status, and some demographic characteristics significantly affect the old age identity of the Chinese elderly. Conclusion The traditional Chinese cultural background of respect for the elderly and the norms of filial piety have an impact on the old age identity of the Chinese elderly through family intergenerational support. The various forms of support provided by children to the elderly can help them achieve a positive age identity-enter old age later, raise the likelihood of identification with non-elderly groups, and reduce aging degree. The number of children of the elderly, the children's economic conditions and care support for grandchildren have negative effects. A positive old age identity can help the elderly improve their self-esteem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Yu
- Northeast Asian Research Center, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Northeast Asian Studies College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Qihui Wang
- Northeast Asian Research Center, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Northeast Asian Studies College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Schietzel S, Chocano-Bedoya PO, Sadlon A, Gagesch M, Willett WC, Orav EJ, Kressig RW, Vellas B, Rizzoli R, da Silva JAP, Blauth M, Kanis JA, Egli A, Bischoff-Ferrari HA. Prevalence of healthy aging among community dwelling adults age 70 and older from five European countries. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:174. [PMID: 35236290 PMCID: PMC8889763 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-02755-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To compare the prevalence of healthy aging among adults age 70 and older from 5 European countries recruited for the DO-HEALTH clinical trial. Participants were selected for absence of prior major health events. Methods Cross-sectional analysis of DO-HEALTH baseline data. All 2,157 participants (mean age 74.9, SD 4.4; 61.7% women) were included and 2,123 had data for all domains of the healthy aging status (HA) definition. HA was assessed based on the Nurses` Health Study (NHS) definition requiring four domains: no major chronic diseases, no disabilities, no cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA ≥25), no mental health limitation (GDS-5 <2, and no diagnosis of depression). Association between HA and age, BMI, gender, and physical function (sit-to-stand, gait speed, grip strength) was assessed by multivariate logistic regression analyses adjusting for center. Results Overall, 41.8% of DO-HEALTH participants were healthy agers with significant variability by country: Austria (Innsbruck) 58.3%, Switzerland (Zurich, Basel, Geneva) 51.2%, Germany (Berlin) 37.6%, France (Toulouse) 36.7% and Portugal (Coimbra) 8.8% (p <0.0001). Differences in prevalence by country persisted after adjustment for age. In the multivariate model, younger age (OR = 0.95, 95% CI 0.93 to 0.98), female gender (OR = 1.36, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.81), lower BMI (OR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.91 to 0.96), faster gait speed (OR = 4.70, 95% CI 2.68 to 8.25) and faster performance in sit-to-stand test (OR = 0.90, 95% CI 0.87 to 0.93) were independently and significantly associated with HA. Conclusions Despite the same inclusion and exclusion criteria preselecting relatively healthy adults age 70 years and older, HA prevalence in DO-HEALTH varied significantly between countries and was highest in participants from Austria and Switzerland, lowest in participants from Portugal. Independent of country, younger age, female gender, lower BMI and better physical function were associated with HA. Trial registration DO-HEALTH was registered under the protocol NCT01745263 at the International Trials Registry (clinicaltrials.gov), and under the protocol number 2012–001249-41 at the Registration at the European Community Clinical Trial System (EudraCT). Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-022-02755-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeon Schietzel
- Department of Aging Medicine and Aging Research, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Center on Aging and Mobility (CAM), University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, and City Hospital Zurich, Waid, Switzerland.
| | - Patricia O Chocano-Bedoya
- Center on Aging and Mobility (CAM), University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, and City Hospital Zurich, Waid, Switzerland.,Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Population Health Laboratory (#PopHealthLab), University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Angelique Sadlon
- Department of Aging Medicine and Aging Research, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland, Zurich, Switzerland.,Center on Aging and Mobility (CAM), University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, and City Hospital Zurich, Waid, Switzerland
| | - Michael Gagesch
- Department of Aging Medicine and Aging Research, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland, Zurich, Switzerland.,Center on Aging and Mobility (CAM), University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, and City Hospital Zurich, Waid, Switzerland
| | - Walter C Willett
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Endel J Orav
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Reto W Kressig
- University Department of Geriatric Medicine Felix Platter and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Vellas
- Gérontopôle de Toulouse, Institut du Vieillissement, Center Hospitalo-Universitaire de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,UMR INSERM 1027, University of Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - René Rizzoli
- Division of Bone Diseases, Geneva University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - José A P da Silva
- Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Michael Blauth
- Department for Trauma Surgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - John A Kanis
- Centre for Metabolic Bone Diseases, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, UK
| | - Andreas Egli
- Department of Aging Medicine and Aging Research, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland, Zurich, Switzerland.,Center on Aging and Mobility (CAM), University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, and City Hospital Zurich, Waid, Switzerland
| | - Heike A Bischoff-Ferrari
- Department of Aging Medicine and Aging Research, University of Zurich and University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland, Zurich, Switzerland.,Center on Aging and Mobility (CAM), University of Zurich, University Hospital Zurich, and City Hospital Zurich, Waid, Switzerland.,University Clinic for Aging Medicine, City Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Waid, Switzerland
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Alonso Debreczeni F, Bailey PE. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Subjective Age and the Association With Cognition, Subjective Well-Being, and Depression. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2021; 76:471-482. [PMID: 32453828 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbaa069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to quantify the degree to which subjective age is associated with cognition, subjective well-being, and depression. METHOD A systematic search was performed in three electronic social scientific databases, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science in May 2018. A manual forward and backward citation search of articles meeting the criteria for inclusion, including a mean participant age of 40+ years, was conducted in November 2019. Twenty-four independent data sets were included in the meta-analysis. RESULTS Overall, a younger subjective age was related to enhanced subjective well-being and cognitive performance, and reduced depressive symptoms (r = .18). This association was stronger among collectivist (r = .24) than individualist (r = .16) cultures. Mean chronological age across samples (ranging from 55 to 83 years), type of subjective age scoring, and gender did not influence the strength of the overall association. Further analysis revealed that subjective age was individually associated with depressive symptoms (r = .20), subjective well-being (r = .17), and cognition (r = .14), and none had a stronger association with subjective age than the other. DISCUSSION The results indicate a small yet significant association between subjective age and important developmental outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Phoebe E Bailey
- School of Psychology, Western Sydney University, Penrith, Australia
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Abstract
Abstract
Life expectancy in China has increased. This paper explores the age when older adults (aged 60 and above) consider themselves to be an ‘older person’ and how age-related loss of resources (five dimensions: early cumulative factors, decline and loss of health resources, reduction and loss of economic resources, weakening and loss of social support resources, and personal role transition and experiences of losing family members) could impact their perceived old age. Using two waves of data from the China Longitudinal Ageing Social Survey (CLASS) in 2014 and 2016 (6,244 participants in 2014 and 2,989 participants in both 2014 and 2016), we found that the mean perceived old age is around 70 years at baseline (2014). Higher level of educational attainment and occupational types (early cumulative factors), better health condition, receiving support from friends and taking care of grandchildren are significantly associated with the perception that old age begins at an older age at baseline, while being Han-Chinese, being an urban resident (early cumulative factors) and reporting better health condition have significant positive effects on the perception that old age begins at an older age in the later wave. Our findings suggest that the age standard of older adults should be adjusted dynamically in response to social development and longevity, and also highlight the importance of early cumulative factors in shaping the ageing process besides age-related factors.
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Abstract
Objectives: Research evidence has demonstrated disparities and barriers associated with mental illness, which creates challenges for individuals with mental illness to maintain physical, mental, and social health as they age. The aim of this study was to examine the meaning of aging from the perspective of individuals with mental illness and explore their motivations and challenges to adopting healthy aging lifestyles and practices.Method: Using a qualitative narrative inquiry approach, interviews were conducted with 61 aging patients with mental illness aged 40 and older in community and institutional settings in Hong Kong.Results: Participants discussed the meaning of healthy aging in terms of meaningful occupation and use of time, and independence and autonomy. Motivating factors included a desire to avoid 'burdening' other people, to 'give back' to society, and gain back 'lost time'. These were connected to strategies for healthy aging, including social relationships and activities, spirituality, and healthy lifestyles. Challenges to adopting healthy aging practices included physical health difficulties and medication side effects, lack of purpose and boredom associated with daily routines and use of time, and conflicts and loss affecting family and peer relationships.Conclusion: Social and health services should be tailored to support aging individuals with mental illness and their families, addressing motivations and barriers to adopting healthy lifestyles. Promoting healthy aging practices to enable individuals with mental illness to achieve healthy aging is important for preparing for the aging of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel W L Lai
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - K C Chan
- Department of Social Work, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - X J Xie
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - G D Daoust
- Department of International Relations, The University of Sussex, Sussex, UK
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Golja K, Daugherty AM, Kavcic V. Cognitive reserve and depression predict subjective reports of successful aging. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2020; 90:104137. [PMID: 32562958 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2020.104137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With graying of western societies, successful aging is a hotly debated topic. Attaining successful aging brings benefits not only at the individual level, but also to society. To better understand successful aging, we conducted a study of older adults in the Republic of Slovenia. METHODS We recruited 213 community-dwelling adults, age 65 years and older, who responded to the Successful Aging Inventory (SAI), Purpose of Life Questionnaire (PIL), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Cognitive Reserve Index, Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ), and Multiple Abilities Self-Report Questionnaire (MASQ). RESULTS Responses to all scales were significantly correlated, which was taken into account when identifying covariates of latent successful aging in a structural equation model. Successful aging, as evaluated by the combination questionnaire responses, was most strongly associated with depression and marginally associated with cognitive reserve. Self-rated functional and cognitive capacities did not significantly explain individual differences in successful aging. DISCUSSION In our study of community-dwelling, older Slovenes, self-rated depression emerged as a strong correlate of successful aging and, to a lesser degree, cognitive reserve. Future studies of interventions that aim to promote successful aging should consider the role of depression and cognitive reserve in the older adult's experience of aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Golja
- School of Advanced Social Studies, Nova Gorica, Slovenia
| | - Ana M Daugherty
- Institute of Gerontology, Wayne State University, USA; Department of Psychology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, USA
| | - Voyko Kavcic
- School of Advanced Social Studies, Nova Gorica, Slovenia; Institute of Gerontology, Wayne State University, USA; Department of Psychology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University, USA; International Institute of Applied Gerontology, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Abstract
AbstractSubjective age (SA) is a core indicator of the individual ageing experience, with important consequences for successful ageing. The aim of the current study was to investigate the directions of the longitudinal associations between domains of SA and subjective wellbeing and physical functioning in the second half of life. We used three-wave survey data (2002, 2007 and 2017) spanning 15 years from the Norwegian Lifecourse, Ageing and Generation Study, including 6,292 persons born between 1922 and 1961. SA was measured with felt-age and ideal-age discrepancies, wellbeing with the Satisfaction of Life Scale and physical functioning with the Short-Form 12. Three-wave cross-lagged panel models were applied to assess the temporal relationships between the different domains of SA, life satisfaction and physical functioning, adjusted for age, gender and education. Findings indicated that wanting to be younger was negatively associated with life satisfaction and physical functioning over time. Felt-age discrepancies did not predict subsequent wellbeing or physical functioning. The results did not reveal any evidence for reversed effects, i.e. from functioning or life satisfaction to SA. Our findings support the psychological pathway from satisfaction with age(ing) to subjective wellbeing and physical functioning over time. Small ideal-age discrepancies reflect positive self-perceptions of ageing, which may help to accumulate psychological resources, guide behavioural regulation and support health.
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Rantanen T, Pynnönen K, Saajanaho M, Siltanen S, Karavirta L, Kokko K, Karvonen A, Kauppinen M, Rantalainen T, Rantakokko M, Portegijs E, Hassandra M. Individualized counselling for active aging: protocol of a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial among older people (the AGNES intervention study). BMC Geriatr 2019; 19:5. [PMID: 30616537 PMCID: PMC6323746 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-018-1012-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Active aging has been established as a policy goal for aging societies. We define active aging at the individual level as striving for elements of well-being through activities in relation to a person's goals, functional capacities and opportunities. Increasing evidence suggests that any meaningful activity is beneficial for different aspects of well-being in older people. The aim of the present randomized controlled trial is to test the feasibility and effectiveness of a one-year community-based intervention on active aging. The AGNES intervention aims at increasing older peoples' participation in self-selected valued activities. METHODS The proposed study is a two-arm single-blinded randomized controlled trial. The intervention group receives individually tailored counselling for an active life (one face-to-face session, four phone calls and supportive written material) and the control group written general health information only. Two hundred older adults aged 75- and 80- year old, with intermediate mobility function and without cognitive impairment, living independently in the municipality of Jyväskylä, Finland, are recruited and randomized with a 1:1 allocation to the intervention and control group. Randomization is computer-generated stratified by sex and age. The primary outcome is active aging and secondary outcomes are well-being, depressive symptoms, quality of life, personal goals, mobility and physical activity. Measures are administered at pre-trial, mid-trial (at 6 months) and post-trial (12 months after baseline). DISCUSSION The AGNES intervention study will provide new knowledge on the effects of individualized counselling on active aging and the potential of older people to promote their own well-being. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial is registered at ISRCTN - ISRCTN16172390 : Promoting well-being through active aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taina Rantanen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (L335), 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Katja Pynnönen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (L335), 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Milla Saajanaho
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (L335), 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Sini Siltanen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (L335), 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Laura Karavirta
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (L335), 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Katja Kokko
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (L335), 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Anu Karvonen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (L335), 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Markku Kauppinen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (L335), 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Timo Rantalainen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (L335), 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Merja Rantakokko
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (L335), 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Erja Portegijs
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (L335), 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Mary Hassandra
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35 (L335), 40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
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Palgi Y, Shrira A, Avidor S, Hoffman Y, Bodner E, Ben-Ezra M. Understanding the long-term connections between posttraumatic stress, subjective age, and successful aging among midlife and older adults. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2019; 10:1583523. [PMID: 30949302 PMCID: PMC6442195 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2019.1583523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The nature of the reciprocal relationships between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, proportional subjective age, and their effects on successful aging are important issues that have been so far under-studied. Clarifying the relationships between these variables has many theoretical and practical implications for the understanding of how individuals age in the shadow of traumatic exposure. Objective: The present study examined the reciprocal relationships between PTSD symptoms and proportional subjective age in a longitudinal design, and how these variables predict successful aging. Method: Using in-region random digit dialling, we collected a stratified sample of community-dwelling older adults residing in the south of Israel. Of that sample, 132 midlife and older adults (T1 age range = 50-87, mean age = 65.84, SD = 9.12) were interviewed three times across a period of two years and four months (2014-2016). Participants completed measures of PTSD symptoms and proportional subjective age in the first two interviews (T1 and T2) and successful aging indices in the third interview (T3). PTSD symptoms and proportional subjective age measured at both T1 and T2 served as predictors and outcomes in a cross-lagged model and as predictors of successful aging at T3. Results: T1 PTSD symptoms predicted an older proportional subjective age at T2, whereas the reverse relationship (i.e. T1 proportional subjective age to T2 PTSD symptoms) was non-significant. Moreover, higher PTSD symptoms and an older proportional subjective age at T2 predicted lower successful aging at T3. Conclusions: In addition to clarifying the temporal sequencing of PTSD and proportional subjective age, the study further suggests that PTSD and proportional subjective age identity could each render midlife and older adults more susceptible to less successful aging. Accordingly, we advocate to further explore the mechanisms underlining these complicated relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Palgi
- Department of Gerontology, and the Center for Research and Study of Aging, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Amit Shrira
- The Interdisciplinary Department of Social Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Sharon Avidor
- School of Social and Community Sciences, Ruppin Academic Center, Emek Hefer, Israel
| | - Yaakov Hoffman
- The Interdisciplinary Department of Social Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Ehud Bodner
- The Interdisciplinary Department of Social Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel
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Rantanen T, Saajanaho M, Karavirta L, Siltanen S, Rantakokko M, Viljanen A, Rantalainen T, Pynnönen K, Karvonen A, Lisko I, Palmberg L, Eronen J, Palonen EM, Hinrichs T, Kauppinen M, Kokko K, Portegijs E. Active aging - resilience and external support as modifiers of the disablement outcome: AGNES cohort study protocol. BMC Public Health 2018; 18:565. [PMID: 29716566 PMCID: PMC5930766 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-018-5487-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Population aging increases the need for knowledge on positive aspects of aging, and contributions of older people to their own wellbeing and that of others. We defined active aging as an individual’s striving for elements of wellbeing with activities as per their goals, abilities and opportunities. This study examines associations of health, health behaviors, health literacy and functional abilities, environmental and social support with active aging and wellbeing. We will develop and validate assessment methods for physical activity and physical resilience suitable for research on older people, and examine their associations with active aging and wellbeing. We will examine cohort effects on functional phenotypes underlying active aging and disability. Methods For this population-based study, we plan to recruit 1000 participants aged 75, 80 or 85 years living in central Finland, by drawing personal details from the population register. Participants are interviewed on active aging, wellbeing, disability, environmental and social support, mobility, health behavior and health literacy. Physical activity and heart rate are monitored for 7 days with wearable sensors. Functional tests include hearing, vision, muscle strength, reaction time, exercise tolerance, mobility, and cognitive performance. Clinical examination by a nurse and physician includes an electrocardiogram, tests of blood pressure, orthostatic regulation, arterial stiffness, and lung function, as well as a review of chronic and acute conditions and prescribed medications. C-reactive protein, small blood count, cholesterol and vitamin D are analyzed from blood samples. Associations of factors potentially underlying active aging and wellbeing will be studied using multivariate methods. Cohort effects will be studied by comparing test results of physical and cognitive functioning with results of a cohort examined in 1989–90. Conclusions The current study will renew research on positive gerontology through the novel approach to active aging and by suggesting new biomarkers of resilience and active aging. Therefore, high interdisciplinary impact is expected. This cross-sectional study will not provide knowledge on temporal order of events or causality, but an innovative cross-sectional dataset provides opportunities for emergence of novel creative hypotheses and theories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taina Rantanen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland.
| | - Milla Saajanaho
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Laura Karavirta
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Sini Siltanen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Merja Rantakokko
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Anne Viljanen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Timo Rantalainen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Katja Pynnönen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Anu Karvonen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Inna Lisko
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Lotta Palmberg
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Johanna Eronen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Eeva-Maija Palonen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Timo Hinrichs
- Division of Sports and Exercise Medicine, Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Markku Kauppinen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Katja Kokko
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Erja Portegijs
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Univerisity of Jyvaskyla, P.O. Box 35 (viv 149), 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland.
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Shinan-Altman S, Werner P. Subjective Age and Its Correlates Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults. Int J Aging Hum Dev 2018; 88:3-21. [PMID: 29359580 DOI: 10.1177/0091415017752941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The present study evaluates discrepancies in subjective age as reported by middle-age persons (aged 44-64 years) in comparison to older adults (aged 65 years and older), using a multidimensional definition of the concept. A convenience sample of 126 middle-aged and 126 older adults completed subjective age measures (felt age, desired age, and perceived old age), attitudes toward older adults, knowledge about aging, and sociodemographic questionnaires. Overall, participants reported feeling younger than they actually were and wanting to be younger than their chronological age. Perceived mean for old age was about 69 years. Discrepancies in felt age and desired age were significantly larger for the older group compared to the middle-aged group. Regarding perceived old age, compared to the younger group, older adults reported that old age begins at an older age. Findings suggest that middle-aged and older adults' perceptions regarding themselves and regarding old age in general are independent and need, therefore, separate research and practical attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiri Shinan-Altman
- 1 Louis and Gabi Weisfeld School of Social Work, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Perla Werner
- 2 Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Israel
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Swift HJ, Abrams D, Marques S, Vauclair CM, Bratt C, Lima ML. Agisem in the European Region: Finding from the European Social Survey. INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVES ON AGING 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-73820-8_27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Ambrosi-Randić N, Nekić M, Tucak Junaković I. Felt Age, Desired, and Expected Lifetime in the Context of Health, Well-Being, and Successful Aging. Int J Aging Hum Dev 2017; 87:33-51. [PMID: 28718299 DOI: 10.1177/0091415017720888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study examines the interrelations of three different aspects of the subjective age: felt, desired and expected, as well as their relations with the chronological age (CA), health, and psychological well-being variables. Four hundred and twenty-three community-dwelling Croatian adults, aged 60-95 years, participated in the study. All three subjective age measures significantly correlated with the CA. Self-rated health were better predictors of the subjective age compared to the psychological variables. Among psychological variables, successful aging was the only significant predictor of the felt and expected age, while optimism showed to be the only significant predictor of the desired age. Results indicate the importance of some sociodemographic, psychological, and health variables for understanding older persons' subjective age identity and their desires and expectations regarding length of life. Besides the CA, it is very useful to include subjective age measures in research with elderly people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neala Ambrosi-Randić
- 1 Sveučilište Jurja Dobrile u Puli, Odjel za interdisciplinarne, talijanske i kulturološke studije, Zagrebačka, Pula, Croatia
| | - Marina Nekić
- 2 Sveučilište u Zadru, Odjel za psihologiju, Obala kralja Petra Krešimira IV, Zadar, Croatia
| | - Ivana Tucak Junaković
- 2 Sveučilište u Zadru, Odjel za psihologiju, Obala kralja Petra Krešimira IV, Zadar, Croatia
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Abstract
The literature on successful aging reveals a wide range of definitions, generally reflecting the academic discipline of the investigator. Biomedical models primarily emphasise physical and mental functioning as successful aging; socio-psychological models emphasise social functioning, life satisfaction and psychological resources as successful aging. Several studies also identify these factors as the precursors of successful aging. Moreover, research shows that older people consider themselves to have aged successfully, but classifications based on traditional medical models do not. Fewer studies have explored lay views, and most of these have been exploratory or restricted to specific groups of areas. A model of successful aging needs to be multi-dimensional, incorporate a lay perspective for social significance, use a continuum rather than dichotomous cut-offs for “success” and lack of, and distinguish clearly between predictor and constituent variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Bowling
- Department of Primary Care and Population Sciences, University College London.
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15
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Abstract
The analysis compared differing correlates of life satisfaction among three diverse population groups in Israel, examining background and health status variables, social environment factors, and activity indicators. Multiple regression analysis revealed that veteran Jewish-Israelis ( n = 2,043) had the largest set of predictors, the strongest of which was health status. Among Arab-Israelis ( n = 609), social visitation served as a significant base for life satisfaction. The predictors among the new immigrant group ( n = 751) reflected the search for social ties beyond the immediate family. The analysis underscores the universal basis of successful aging, especially the contribution of health status. However, it also clarifies that the specific components of some of the general categories of predictors work in different ways among different population groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Howard Litwin
- Paul Baerwald School of Social Work and Social Welfare, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel.
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Ayalon L, Palgi Y, Avidor S, Bodner E. Accelerated increase and decrease in subjective age as a function of changes in loneliness and objective social indicators over a four-year period: results from the health and retirement study. Aging Ment Health 2016; 20:743-51. [PMID: 25925282 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2015.1035696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study examined the role of changes in loneliness and objective social indicators in the formation of changes in subjective age over a four-year period. METHODS The Health and Retirement Study is a US nationally representative study of older adults over 50 and their spouse of any age. We restricted the sample to individuals, 65 years of age and older (n = 2591). An accelerated increase in subjective age was defined as an increase in subjective age over the two waves greater than five years. An accelerated decrease in subjective age was defined as a difference that was lower than three years. These were examined against a change in subjective age in the range of three to five years (i.e., change consistent with the passage of time). RESULTS For 23.4% of the sample, changes in subjective age were consistent with the passage of time. A total of 38.3% had an accelerated decrease in subjective age, whereas 38.3% had an accelerated increase. A decrease in loneliness over the two waves resulted in an accelerated decrease in subjective age, whereas an increase in depressive symptoms resulted in an accelerated increase in subjective age. Changes in objective social indicators, physical difficulties or medical comorbidity did not predict changes in subjective age. CONCLUSIONS This is one of very few studies that examined changes in subjective age over time. Changes in subjective age represent an important construct that corresponding to other changes in subjective experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liat Ayalon
- a School of Social Work , Bar Ilan University , Ramat Gan , Israel
| | - Yuval Palgi
- b Department of Gerontology , University of Haifa , Haifa , Israel
| | - Sharon Avidor
- c Bob Shapell School of Social Work , Tel Aviv University , Tel Aviv , Israel
| | - Ehud Bodner
- d The Interdisciplinary Department of Social Sciences, Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan , Israel
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Bodner E, Ayalon L, Avidor S, Palgi Y. Accelerated increase and relative decrease in subjective age and changes in attitudes toward own aging over a 4-year period: results from the Health and Retirement Study. Eur J Ageing 2016; 14:17-27. [PMID: 28804391 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-016-0383-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The passage of time may force people to adjust their subjective age in response to changes in their attitudes toward own aging (ATOA). Although positive associations have been found between well-being and both positive ATOA and younger subjective age, the relationships between changes in these measures have not been examined yet. We expected (1) a decrease in positive ATOA to be associated with an accelerated increase in subjective age and (2) an increase in positive ATOA to be associated with a relative decrease in subjective age. Participants were individuals and their spouses, aged 50 and over, recruited by the Health and Retirement Study, who provided responses to a question concerning one's subjective age in 2008 and 2012 (n = 4174). A change in subjective age over the two waves was regarded as (1) an accelerated increase if it was greater than 5 years (36.2 % of the sample); (2) a relative decrease (39.1 %), if it was less than the 3 years; (3) no change if it did not comply with criteria 1 or 2 (24.7 %). A decrease in positive ATOA over the two waves resulted in an accelerated increase in subjective age, and an increase resulted in a relative decrease in subjective age. Older age and more physical impairments and depressive symptoms in 2012 compared with 2008 were associated with an accelerated increase in subjective age. Our findings emphasize the consequences ATOA might have on subjective age experiences, and the need to improve them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehud Bodner
- The Interdisciplinary Department of Social Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, 5290002 Ramat Gan, Israel.,The Department of Music, Bar-Ilan University, 5290002 Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Liat Ayalon
- Louis and Gabi Weisfeld, School of Social Work, Bar-Ilan University, 5290002 Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Sharon Avidor
- School of Social and Community Sciences, Ruppin Academic Center, 402500 Emek Hefer, Israel
| | - Yuval Palgi
- Department of Gerontology and the Center for Research and Study of Aging, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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18
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Feng Q, Son J, Zeng Y. Prevalence and correlates of successful ageing: a comparative study between China and South Korea. Eur J Ageing 2015; 12:83-94. [PMID: 28804348 PMCID: PMC5549135 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-014-0329-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful ageing is often defined as a later life with less disease and disease-related disability, high level of cognitive and physical functions, and an active life style. Few studies have compared successful ageing across different societies in a non-Western social context. This study aims to compare prevalence and correlates of successful ageing between China and South Korea. The data come from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) and the Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing (KLoSA). A total of 19,346 community-dwelling elders over 65 years were included, 15,191 from China and 4,155 from Korea. A multidimensional construct of successful ageing was used, with the criteria of no major comorbidity, being free of disability, good mental health, engaging in social or productive activity, and satisfaction on life. Correlates of successful ageing included demographics (gender, age, and rural/urban residence), socioeconomic features (financial status, education, and spouse accompany), and health behaviours (smoking, alcohol-drinking, and exercising). The results showed that 18.6 % of the older adults in China was successful agers, which was less than 25.2 % in Korea. When gender and age were adjusted, older adults were 51 % less likely to be successful agers in China than Korea (p < 0.001). The association patterns between successful ageing and its correlates are similar between China and Korea. However, before the socioeconomic variables are under control, rural residence was negatively related to successful ageing in China, whereas this is not the case in Korea. And the gender gap of successful ageing was mostly explained by socioeconomic features and health behaviours in Korea, but not in China. In both countries, good financial condition was highly associated with successful ageing. The study suggests that advancement of public health system could better control progression of non-communicable diseases among old people and thus promote successful ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiush Feng
- National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Joonmo Son
- National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yi Zeng
- Duke University, Durham, USA
- Peking University, Beijing, China
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19
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examined subjective age and its cross-domain correlates in Chinese oldest-old. METHOD We conducted a secondary data analysis using cross-sectional data drawn from the 2006 Sample Survey on the Aged Population in Urban/Rural China, which consisted of a sample of 860 community-dwelling Chinese older adults aged 85 years and above. RESULTS A small percentage (8%) of the oldest-old participants reported that they did not feel old. Binary logistic regression analyses revealed that urban living, better physical and self-reported cognitive functioning and mental health were all related to not feeling old, whereas chronological age was found to have no association with subjective age when controlling for indicators of physical and self-reported cognitive functioning. CONCLUSION The findings revealed the key roles of functional limitations and mental health in the construction of subjective age in Chinese oldest-old. The possible cross-cultural similarity in the links of subjective age to mental health and physical functioning in later life suggests that maintaining a youthful subjective age may have adaptive value for the oldest-old and contribute to their successful aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Liang
- a Department of Social Work and Social Administration , The University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong , China
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20
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Keyes CLM, Westerhof GJ. Chronological and subjective age differences in flourishing mental health and major depressive episode. Aging Ment Health 2012; 16:67-74. [PMID: 21780972 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2011.596811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Mental health is more than the absence of psychopathology, but few studies use positive mental health along with a measure of past year major depressive episode (MDE). This study addresses this gap by investigating the association of MDE and flourishing mental health (FMH) with chronological age and subjective (felt and ideal) age. Data are from the Midlife in the United States random digit dialing sample of adults ages 25 to 74, collected in 1995 (n = 3032). Rates of MDE were lowest, and FMH highest, among the three oldest age cohorts (45-54, 55-64, 65-74 years). Subjective age was linked with chronological age; with age, adults tend to feel younger, and want to be an age that is younger, than their actual age. As predicted by the model of subjective age as an adaptive strategy, feeling younger was related to a lower risk of MDE and a higher risk of FMH. However, wanting to be younger was related to a lower risk of FMH and unrelated to MDE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corey L M Keyes
- Department of Sociology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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21
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Macia E, Duboz P, Montepare JM, Gueye L. Age identity, self-rated health, and life satisfaction among older adults in Dakar, Senegal. Eur J Ageing 2012; 9:243-253. [PMID: 28804424 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-012-0227-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this quantitative study were to (1) ascertain to what extent older adults aged 50 and above feel and desire to be younger than their age, and classify themselves as young versus old; (2) compare these patterns with those found among other cross-cultural populations; and (3) assess the extent to which self-rated health and life satisfaction predict age identities. This study was carried out on a sample of 500 dwellers of the Senegalese capital aged 50 and older. This sample was constructed using the quota method to strive for representativeness. Most of the respondents wanted to be younger than their chronological age (51.8 %), but only 27.8 % felt younger than they were. Moreover, 80 % of the sample claimed to be old. Self-rated health predicted felt age and the feeling of being old. Furthermore, the less-satisfied Dakar residents were with their life, the younger they wanted to be. We first discuss our results in a comparative perspective focused on how orientations toward individualism and collectivism could be related to age identity, and on demographic characteristics of the Senegalese population-where life expectancy is 59.3 years old. We then analyze the relevance of age identity dimensions as indicators of successful aging in Dakar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enguerran Macia
- UMI 3189 Environnement, santé, sociétés (CNRS/Université Cheikh Anta Diop/Université de Bamako/CNRST Burkina-Faso), 51, Bd. Pierre Dramard, Faculté de Médecine-Secteur Nord, 13344 Marseille Cedex 15, France
| | - Priscilla Duboz
- UMI 3189 Environnement, santé, sociétés (CNRS/Université Cheikh Anta Diop/Université de Bamako/CNRST Burkina-Faso), 51, Bd. Pierre Dramard, Faculté de Médecine-Secteur Nord, 13344 Marseille Cedex 15, France
| | - Joann M Montepare
- RoseMary B. Fuss Center for Research on Aging and Intergenerational Studies, Lasell College, Newton, MA USA
| | - Lamine Gueye
- UMI 3189 Environnement, santé, sociétés (CNRS/Université Cheikh Anta Diop/Université de Bamako/CNRST Burkina-Faso), 51, Bd. Pierre Dramard, Faculté de Médecine-Secteur Nord, 13344 Marseille Cedex 15, France
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22
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Relationship between memory age identity (MAI) and cognition in Korean elders. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2012; 54:339-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2011.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2010] [Revised: 05/05/2011] [Accepted: 05/06/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Troutman M, Nies MA, Small S, Bates A. The Development and Testing of an Instrument to Measure Successful Aging. Res Gerontol Nurs 2011; 4:221-32. [DOI: 10.3928/19404921-20110106-02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2010] [Accepted: 07/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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24
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Cross-cultural comparison between academic and lay views of healthy ageing: a literature review. AGEING & SOCIETY 2010. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x10000589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTThe aim of this study is to specify the concept of ‘healthy ageing’ from both western and non-western cultural perspectives, and to compare the views of academics and lay older people. Thirty-four published peer-reviewed full papers in English and Chinese (traditional characters) were identified using electronic database searches. The key components of their definitions of healthy ageing were extracted and categorised into 12 domains. The results show that, in general, lay definitions (as described in 11 studies) included more domains (independency, family, adaptation, financial security, personal growth, and spirituality) and more diversity in the healthy ageing concept than academic views (which tend to focus more on physical and mental health and social functioning in later life). Certain domains were valued differently across cultures. As shown in previous studies, the findings affirm that healthy ageing is a multi-dimensional and complex concept and that there are substantial differences in different cultures. Moreover, we found that there are pronounced variations in the conceptualisation of healthy ageing as between academic and older lay people. Generally, older lay people perceive healthy ageing more broadly than the maintenance of physical, mental and social functioning. We suggest that academic researchers should integrate the more holistic perspectives of older lay people and cultural diversity into the classical ‘physical–mental–social’ healthy ageing concept.
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25
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Wiesmann U, Niehörster G, Hannich HJ. Subjective health in old age from a salutogenic perspective. Br J Health Psychol 2009; 14:767-87. [PMID: 19245743 DOI: 10.1348/135910709x413124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We applied Antonovsky's salutogenic model to healthy ageing. Basically, salutogenic theory states that generalized resistance resources build-up the sense of coherence which in turn determines an individual's health level. Specifically, we explored the status of the sense of coherence as a mediator variable. DESIGN AND METHOD We conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire study with 387 volunteering elders (73.4% women and 22.2% nursing home residents) at the mean age of 74 (SD=7.58) years. We assessed 19 bio-psychosocial resources, the sense of coherence, and three subjective health measures - psychological health, symptom reporting, and physical health. As nursing home residents were generally inferior, our study controlled for dependent living. RESULTS Resources, sense of coherence, and subjective health were significantly inter-related. A regression showed that optimism, self-esteem, low depressive mood, self-efficacy, and social support predicted the sense of coherence significantly. Predicting psychological health and symptom reporting, the sense of coherence remained significant when resources were added in the final step of the regression. This pattern was not found for physical health. Mediator analyses using Preacher and Hayes' paradigm showed that every eligible resource influenced both psychological health and symptom reporting, but not physical health, indirectly via the sense of coherence. CONCLUSION The sense of coherence is largely shaped by individual difference variables. As a mediator variable, it strongly accounts for the relation between resources and psychogenic aspects of health, whereas its relative significance for physical health is not corroborated. Our findings emphasize the importance of resource-oriented health care for elders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Wiesmann
- Institute for Medical Psychology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.
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26
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Abstract
As limited resources led me to combine teaching and research responsibilities, my students have been participating in an assignment that involves listening to aging women in order to discover how women explain the aging process. We have conducted 329 comprehensive interviews of women who were living in the decade of their sixties, seventies, eighties, or nineties. In this sample of predominantly southern women in the United States, meaning of age is explained in a process involving both looking back (reminiscence) and looking ahead (preminiscence) at one's life course with specific references to changes in one's body, family, home, and keeping the faith.
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27
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Rubin DC, Berntsen D. People over forty feel 20% younger than their age: subjective age across the lifespan. Psychon Bull Rev 2007; 13:776-80. [PMID: 17328372 PMCID: PMC3969748 DOI: 10.3758/bf03193996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Subjective age--the age people think of themselves asbeing--is measured in a representative Danish sample of 1,470 adults between 20 and 97 years of age through personal, in-home interviews. On the average, adults younger than 25 have older subjective ages, and those older than 25 have younger subjective ages, favoring a lifespan-developmental view over an age-denial view of subjective age. When the discrepancy between subjective and chronological age is calculated as a proportion of chronological age, no increase is seen after age 40; older respondents feel 20% younger than their actual age. Demographic variables (gender, income, and education) account for very little variance in subjective age.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Rubin
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708-0086, USA.
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28
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Abstract
Successful aging is of growing importance in the U.S. Many researchers have explored the phenomenon using various approaches, yet we are still lacking practical guidelines on how to promote successful aging in older adults. The Roy Adaptation Model supports the promotion of adaptation to chronic health problems at a time when one's overall health may be declining and is a useful guide for understanding successful aging. Current literature also suggests that functional performance and creativity are important in order to age successfully. This study examined the relationships between functional performance, creativity, and successful aging within the context of the Roy Adaptation Model. Although creativity was not significantly predictive of successful aging, functional performance was a statistically significant predictor of a successful aging indicator, purpose in life. The study was a pretest-posttest experimental design investigating the effects of a creativity enhancement intervention in older adults. Although the intervention did not appear to increase creativity or successful aging, there were some statistically significant results and valuable findings about the possibilities for creativity enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Flood
- Department of Family and Community Health Nursing, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina 28223-0001, USA.
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29
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Depp CA, Jeste DV. Definitions and predictors of successful aging: a comprehensive review of larger quantitative studies. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2006; 14:6-20. [PMID: 16407577 DOI: 10.1097/01.jgp.0000192501.03069.bc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 680] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is no consensual definition of "successful aging." Our aim was to review the literature on proportions of subjects meeting criteria and individual components of definitions of successful aging as well as correlates of these definitions. METHODS We conducted a literature search for published English-language peer-reviewed reports of data-based studies of adults over age 60 that included an operationalized definition of successful aging. The authors categorized the components of these definitions and independent variables examined in relation to successful aging (e.g., gender, education, and social contacts). RESULTS The authors identified 28 studies with 29 different definitions that met our criteria. Most investigations used large samples of community-dwelling older adults. The mean reported proportion of successful agers was 35.8% (standard deviation: 19.8) but varied widely (interquartile range: 31%). Multiple components of these definitions were identified, although 26 of 29 included disability/physical functioning. The most frequent significant correlates of the various definitions of successful aging were age (young-old), nonsmoking, and absence of disability, arthritis, and diabetes. Moderate support was found for greater physical activity, more social contacts, better self-rated health, absence of depression and cognitive impairment, and fewer medical conditions. Gender, income, education, and marital status generally did not relate to successful aging. CONCLUSION Despite variability among definitions, approximately one-third of elderly individuals were classified as aging successfully. The majority of these definitions were based on the absence of disability with lesser inclusion of psychosocial variables. Predictors of successful aging varied yet point to several potentially modifiable targets for increasing the likelihood of successful aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin A Depp
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA 92161, USA.
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30
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Abstract
Research during the last decades has greatly increased our understanding of brain plasticity, i.e. how neuronal circuits can be modified by experience, learning and in response to brain lesions. Currently available neuroimaging techniques that make it possible to study the function of the human brain in vivo have had an important impact. Cross-modal plasticity during development is demonstrated by cortical reorganization in blind or deaf children. Early musical training has lasting effects in shaping the brain. Albeit the plasticity is largest during childhood, the adult brain retains a capacity for functional and structural reorganization that earlier has been underestimated. Recent research on Huntington's disease has revealed the possibility of environmental interaction even with dominant genes. Scientifically based training methods are now being applied in rehabilitation of patients after stroke and trauma, and in the sensory retraining techniques currently applied in the treatment of focal hand dystonia as well as in sensory re-education after nerve repair in hand surgery. There is evidence that frequent participation in challenging and stimulating activities is associated with reduced cognitive decline during aging. The current concept of brain plasticity has wide implication for areas outside neuroscience and for all human life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbro B Johansson
- Division for Experimental Brain Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lund University, Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Lund, Sweden.
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