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Arioz U, Smrke U, Plohl N, Špes T, Musil B, Mlakar I. Scoping Review of Technological Solutions for Community Dwelling Older Adults and Implications for Instrumental Activities of Daily Living. Aging Dis 2024:AD.2024.0215. [PMID: 38421834 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2024.0215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging in place is not without its challenges, with physical, psychological, social, and economic burdens on caregivers and seniors. To address these challenges and promote active aging, technological advancements offer a range of digital tools, applications, and devices, enabling community dwelling older adults to live independently and safely. Despite these opportunities, the acceptance of technology among the older adults remains low, often due to a mismatch between technology development and the actual needs and goals of seniors. The aim of this review is to identify recent technological solutions that monitor the health and well-being of aging adults, particularly within the context of instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). A scoping review identified 52 studies that meet specific inclusion criteria. The outcomes were classified based on social connectedness, autonomy, mental health, physical health, and safety. Our review revealed that a predominant majority (82%) of the studies were observational in design and primarily focused on health-related IADLs (59%) and communication-related IADLs (31%). Additionally, the study highlighted the crucial role of involving older adults in study design processes, with only 8 out of the 52 studies incorporating this approach. Our review also established the interview method as the most favoured technology evaluation tool for older adults' studies. The metrics of 'usability' and 'acceptance' emerged as the most frequently employed measures for technology assessment. This study contributes to the existing literature by shedding light on the implications of technological solutions for community dwelling older adults, emphasizing the types of technologies employed and their evaluation results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umut Arioz
- The University of Maribor, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Urška Smrke
- The University of Maribor, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Nejc Plohl
- The University of Maribor, Faculty of Arts, Department of Psychology, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Tanja Špes
- The University of Maribor, Faculty of Arts, Department of Psychology, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Bojan Musil
- The University of Maribor, Faculty of Arts, Department of Psychology, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Izidor Mlakar
- The University of Maribor, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Maribor, Slovenia
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Welch V, Ghogomu ET, Barbeau VI, Dowling S, Doyle R, Beveridge E, Boulton E, Desai P, Huang J, Elmestekawy N, Hussain T, Wadhwani A, Boutin S, Haitas N, Kneale D, Salzwedel DM, Simard R, Hébert P, Mikton C. Digital interventions to reduce social isolation and loneliness in older adults: An evidence and gap map. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2023; 19:e1369. [PMID: 38024780 PMCID: PMC10681039 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Social isolation and loneliness are more common in older adults and are associated with a serious impact on their well-being, mental health, physical health, and longevity. They are a public health concern highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, hence the need for digital technology tools to enable remotely delivered interventions to alleviate the impact of social isolation and loneliness during the COVID-19 restrictions. Objectives To map available evidence on the effects of digital interventions to mitigate social isolation and/or loneliness in older adults in all settings except hospital settings. Search Methods We searched the following databases from inception to May 16, 2021, with no language restrictions. Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, APA PsycInfo via Ovid, CINAHL via EBSCO, Web of Science via Clarivate, ProQuest (all databases), International Bibliography of the Social Sciences (IBSS) via ProQuest, EBSCO (all databases except CINAHL), Global Index Medicus, and Epistemonikos. Selection Criteria Titles and abstracts and full text of potentially eligible articles were independently screened in duplicate following the eligibility criteria. Data Collection and Analysis We developed and pilot tested a data extraction code set in Eppi-Reviewer and data were individually extracted and coded based on an intervention-outcome framework which was also used to define the dimensions of the evidence and gap map. Main Results We included 200 articles (103 primary studies and 97 systematic reviews) that assessed the effects of digital interventions to reduce social isolation and/or loneliness in older adults. Most of the systematic reviews (72%) were classified as critically low quality, only 2% as high quality and 25% were published since the COVID-19 pandemic. The evidence is unevenly distributed with clusters predominantly in high-income countries and none in low-income countries. The most common interventions identified are digital interventions to enhance social interactions with family and friends and the community via videoconferencing and telephone calls. Digital interventions to enhance social support, particularly socially assistive robots, and virtual pets were also common. Most interventions focused on reducing loneliness and depression and improving quality of life of older adults. Major gaps were identified in community level outcomes and process indicators. No included studies or reviews assessed affordability or digital divide although the value of accessibility and barriers caused by digital divide were discussed in three primary studies and three reviews. Adverse effects were reported in only two studies and six reviews. No study or review included participants from the LGBTQIA2S+ community and only one study restricted participants to 80 years and older. Very few described how at-risk populations were recruited or conducted any equity analysis to assess differences in effects for populations experiencing inequities across PROGRESS-Plus categories. Authors' Conclusions The restrictions placed on people during the pandemic have shone a spotlight onto social isolation and loneliness, particularly for older adults. This evidence and gap map shows available evidence on the effectiveness of digital interventions for reducing social isolation or loneliness in older adults. Although the evidence is relatively large and recent, it is unevenly distributed and there is need for more high-quality research. This map can guide researchers and funders to consider areas of major gaps as priorities for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Welch
- Methods Centre, Bruyère Research InstituteOttawaOntarioCanada
| | | | | | - Sierra Dowling
- Methods Centre, Bruyère Research InstituteOttawaOntarioCanada
| | | | - Ella Beveridge
- Methods Centre, Bruyère Research InstituteOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - Elisabeth Boulton
- School of Health Sciences, Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social WorkUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Payaam Desai
- Methods Centre, Bruyère Research InstituteOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - Jimmy Huang
- Methods Centre, Bruyère Research InstituteOttawaOntarioCanada
| | | | | | - Arpana Wadhwani
- Methods Centre, Bruyère Research InstituteOttawaOntarioCanada
| | | | | | - Dylan Kneale
- Social Science Research Unit, EPPI‐Centre, UCL Institute of EducationUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Douglas M. Salzwedel
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and TherapeuticsUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | | | - Paul Hébert
- Bruyère Research InstituteUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
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Paquet C, Whitehead J, Shah R, Adams AM, Dooley D, Spreng RN, Aunio AL, Dubé L. Social Prescription Interventions Addressing Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults: Meta-Review Integrating On-the-Ground Resources. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e40213. [PMID: 37195738 PMCID: PMC10233446 DOI: 10.2196/40213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social prescription programs represent a viable solution to linking primary care patients to nonmedical community resources for improving patient well-being. However, their success depends on the integration of patient needs with local resources. This integration could be accelerated by digital tools that use expressive ontology to organize knowledge resources, thus enabling the seamless navigation of diverse community interventions and services tailored to the needs of individual users. This infrastructure bears particular relevance for older adults, who experience a range of social needs that impact their health, including social isolation and loneliness. An essential first step in enabling knowledge mobilization and the successful implementation of social prescription initiatives to meet the social needs of older adults is to incorporate the evidence-based academic literature on what works, with on-the-ground solutions in the community. OBJECTIVE This study aims to integrate scientific evidence with on-the-ground knowledge to build a comprehensive list of intervention terms and keywords related to reducing social isolation and loneliness in older adults. METHODS A meta-review was conducted using a search strategy combining terms related to older adult population, social isolation and loneliness, and study types relevant to reviews using 5 databases. Review extraction included intervention characteristics, outcomes (social [eg, loneliness, social isolation, and social support] or mental health [eg, psychological well-being, depression, and anxiety]), and effectiveness (reported as consistent, mixed, or not supported). Terms related to identified intervention types were extracted from the reviewed literature as well as descriptions of corresponding community services in Montréal, Canada, available from web-based regional, municipal, and community data sources. RESULTS The meta-review identified 11 intervention types addressing social isolation and loneliness in older adults by either increasing social interactions, providing instrumental support, promoting mental and physical well-being, or providing home and community care. Group-based social activities, support groups with educational elements, recreational activities, and training or use of information and communication technologies were the most effective in improving outcomes. Examples of most intervention types were found in community data sources. Terms derived from the literature that were the most commonly congruent with those describing existing community services were related to telehealth, recreational activities, and psychological therapy. However, several discrepancies were observed between review-based terms and those addressing the available services. CONCLUSIONS A range of interventions found to be effective at addressing social isolation and loneliness or their impact on mental health were identified from the literature, and many of these interventions were represented in services available to older residents in Montréal, Canada. However, different terms were occasionally used to describe or categorize similar services across data sources. Establishing an efficient means of identifying and structuring such sources is important to facilitate referrals and help-seeking behaviors of older adults and for strategic planning of resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Paquet
- Département de Marketing, Faculté des Sciences de l'Administration, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec - Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
- Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), Institut sur la Nutrition et les Aliments Fonctionnels (INAF), Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Jocelyne Whitehead
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Desautels Faculty of Management, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill Centre for the Convergence of Health and Economics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Rishabh Shah
- Desautels Faculty of Management, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill Centre for the Convergence of Health and Economics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alayne Mary Adams
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Damion Dooley
- Centre for Infectious Disease Genomics and One Health, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - R Nathan Spreng
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Laurette Dubé
- Desautels Faculty of Management, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill Centre for the Convergence of Health and Economics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Petersen B, Khalili-Mahani N, Murphy C, Sawchuk K, Phillips N, Li KZH, Hebblethwaite S. The association between information and communication technologies, loneliness and social connectedness: A scoping review. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1063146. [PMID: 37034933 PMCID: PMC10075275 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1063146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Older adults are at a higher risk of loneliness, compared to other demographics. The use of Internet Communication and Technologies (ICTs) among older adults is steadily increasing and given ICTs provide a means of enhancing social connectedness suggests they may have positive effects on reducing loneliness. Therefore, the aim of this scoping review was to examine the research that explores how ICTs may be implicated in mitigating loneliness and increasing social connectedness among older adults. After the examination of 54 articles, we identified three major themes within the literature: (1) ICTs were associated with a reduction in loneliness and increase in wellbeing. (2) ICTs promoted social connectedness by facilitating conversations. (3) Factors such as training, self-efficacy, self-esteem, autonomy, and the design/features, or affordances, of ICTs contribute toward the associations between ICT use and wellbeing. The heterogeneity of methodologies, statistical reporting, the small sample sizes of interventional and observational studies, and the diversity of the experimental contexts underline the challenges of quantitative research in this field and highlights the necessity of tailoring ICT interventions to the needs and contexts of the older users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berkley Petersen
- Laboratory for Adult Development and Cognitive Aging, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Berkley Petersen,
| | - Najmeh Khalili-Mahani
- Media Health Lab, Department of Design and Computation Arts, Milieux Institute for Arts, Culture and Technology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- McGill Centre for Integrative Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Caitlin Murphy
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation (CRIR), Lethbridge-Layton-Mackay Rehabilitation Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Kim Sawchuk
- Aging and Communication Technologies (ACT), Department of Communication Studies, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Natalie Phillips
- Laboratory of Cognition, Aging and Psychophysiology (CAP), Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Karen Z. H. Li
- Laboratory for Adult Development and Cognitive Aging, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Bernardo J, Apóstolo J, Loureiro R, Santana E, Yaylagul NK, Dantas C, Ventura F, Duque FM, Jøranson N, Zechner M, van Staalduinen W, De Luca V, Illario M, Silva R. eHealth Platforms to Promote Autonomous Life and Active Aging: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15940. [PMID: 36498018 PMCID: PMC9738367 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
New technologies, namely eHealth platforms, are being used more than ever before. These platforms enable older people to have a more independent lifestyle, enhance their participation, and improve their well-being. Information and communication technologies are expected to be linked to the triad of aging, social inclusion, and active participation, which is in line with the implementation of Smart Healthy and Age-Friendly Environments. This scoping review aimed to map eHealth platforms designed to promote autonomous life and active aging. The Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and the PRISMA-ScR checklist were used. A search was conducted on MEDLINE (via PubMed), CINAHL Complete (via EBSCOhost), Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (via EBSCOhost), SciELO, DART-Europe, CAPES, and MedNar databases. Fourteen studies were included. This scoping review synthesized information on eHealth platforms designed to promote active living, their domains of intervention, and the outcomes assessed in those studies that have implemented and evaluated these eHealth platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Bernardo
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Apóstolo
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
- Portugal Centre for Evidence Based Practice: A JBI Centre of Excellence (PCEBP), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Loureiro
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Elaine Santana
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | | | - Filipa Ventura
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Filipa Margarida Duque
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nina Jøranson
- Faculty of Health Studies, VID Specialized University, N-3019 Oslo, Norway
| | - Minna Zechner
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Vincenzo De Luca
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Maddalena Illario
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Silva
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
- Portugal Centre for Evidence Based Practice: A JBI Centre of Excellence (PCEBP), 3030 Coimbra, Portugal
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Buyl R, Beogo I, Fobelets M, Deletroz C, Van Landuyt P, Dequanter S, Gorus E, Bourbonnais A, Giguère A, Lechasseur K, Gagnon MP. e-Health interventions for healthy aging: a systematic review. Syst Rev 2020; 9:128. [PMID: 32493515 PMCID: PMC7271471 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-020-01385-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthy aging (HA) is a contemporary challenge for population health worldwide. Electronic health (e-Health) interventions have the potential to support empowerment and education of adults aged 50 and over. OBJECTIVES To summarize evidence on the effectiveness of e-Health interventions on HA and explore how specific e-Health interventions and their characteristics effectively impact HA. METHODS A systematic review was conducted based on the Cochrane Collaboration methods including any experimental study design published in French, Dutch, Spanish, and English from 2000 to 2018. RESULTS Fourteen studies comparing various e-Health interventions to multiple components controls were included. The target population, type of interventions, and outcomes measured were very heterogeneous across studies; thus, a meta-analysis was not possible. However, effect estimates indicate that e-Health interventions could improve physical activity. Positive effects were also found for other healthy behaviors (e.g., healthy eating), psychological outcomes (e.g., memory), and clinical parameters (e.g., blood pressure). Given the low certainty of the evidence related to most outcomes, these results should be interpreted cautiously. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review found limited evidence supporting the effectiveness of e-Health interventions, although the majority of studies show positive effects of these interventions for improving physical activity in older adults. Thus, better quality evidence is needed regarding the effects of e-Health on the physiological, psychological, and social dimensions of HA. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42016033163).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Buyl
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Public Health Sciences, Biostatistics and Medical Informatics(BISI) Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Idrissa Beogo
- École des sciences infirmières et des études de la santé/School of Nursing and Health Studies, Université de Saint-Boniface, Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada
| | - Maaike Fobelets
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Public Health Sciences, Biostatistics and Medical Informatics(BISI) Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Carole Deletroz
- School of Health Sciences (HESAV), University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Avenue de Beaumont 21, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Philip Van Landuyt
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Public Health Sciences, Biostatistics and Medical Informatics(BISI) Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Samantha Dequanter
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Public Health Sciences, Biostatistics and Medical Informatics(BISI) Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ellen Gorus
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Gerontology, Frailty in Ageing (FRIA) Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Anne Bourbonnais
- Faculty of Nursing, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec Canada
- Research Center of the Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal (CRIUGM), Montreal, Quebec Canada
| | - Anik Giguère
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de recherche sur les soins et services de première ligne de l’Université Laval (CERSSPL-UL), Quebec, Canada
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier de Québec-Université Laval (CRCHUQ-UL), Quebec, Canada
| | - Kathleen Lechasseur
- Faculty of Nursing Sciences, Université Laval, Québec, 1050 avenue de la Médecine, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Pierre Gagnon
- Centre de recherche sur les soins et services de première ligne de l’Université Laval (CERSSPL-UL), Quebec, Canada
- Research Center of the Centre Hospitalier de Québec-Université Laval (CRCHUQ-UL), Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Nursing Sciences, Université Laval, Québec, 1050 avenue de la Médecine, Quebec, Canada
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Ballesteros S, Rieker JA, Mayas J, Prieto A, Toril P, Jiménez MP, Reales JM. Effects of multidomain versus single-domain training on executive control and memory in older adults: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2020; 21:404. [PMID: 32410715 PMCID: PMC7222523 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-020-04293-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research suggests that both cognitive training and physical exercise help to maintain brain health and cognitive functions that decline with age. Some studies indicate that combined interventions may produce larger effects than each intervention alone. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of combined cognitive and physical training compared to cognitive training and physical training alone on executive control and memory functions in healthy older adults. OBJECTIVES The main objectives of this four-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) are: to investigate the synergetic effects of a simultaneous, group-based multidomain training program that combines cognitive video-game training with physical exercise, in comparison to those produced by cognitive training combined with physical control activity, physical training combined with cognitive control activity, or a combination of both control activities; to investigate whether event-related potential latencies of the P2 component are shorter and N2 and P3b components assessed in a memory-based task switching task are enhanced after training; and to find out whether possible enhancements persist after a 3-month period without training. METHODS In this randomized, single-blind, controlled trial, 144 participants will be randomly assigned to one of the four combinations of cognitive training and physical exercise. The cognitive component will be either video-game training (cognitive intervention, CI) or video games not specifically designed to train cognition (cognitive control, CC). The physical exercise component will either emphasize endurance, strength, and music-movement coordination (exercise intervention, EI) or stretching, toning, and relaxation (exercise control, EC). DISCUSSION This RCT will investigate the short and long-term effects of multidomain training, compared to cognitive training and physical training alone, on executive control and memory functions in healthy older adults, in comparison with the performance of an active control group. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03823183. Registered on 21 January 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soledad Ballesteros
- Studies on Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Basic Psychology II, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Juan del Rosal, 10, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jennifer A. Rieker
- Studies on Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Basic Psychology II, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Juan del Rosal, 10, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia Mayas
- Studies on Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Basic Psychology II, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Juan del Rosal, 10, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Prieto
- Studies on Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Basic Psychology II, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Juan del Rosal, 10, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Toril
- Studies on Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Pilar Jiménez
- Studies on Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Basic Psychology II, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Juan del Rosal, 10, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Manuel Reales
- Studies on Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
- Department Methodology of Behavioral Sciences, Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
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Klimova B, Pikhart M. Current Research on the Impact of Foreign Language Learning Among Healthy Seniors on Their Cognitive Functions From a Positive Psychology Perspective-A Systematic Review. Front Psychol 2020; 11:765. [PMID: 32373038 PMCID: PMC7186493 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review study is to explore the existing research focusing on the impact of foreign language learning among healthy seniors on their cognitive functions from the positive psychology perspective. The methods are based on a literature review of available sources found on the research topic in two acknowledged databases: Web of Science and Scopus. The search period was not limited by any time period since there are not many studies on this topic. Altogether seven original studies were detected. The findings of this review study thus reveal that foreign language learning (FLL) has a positive impact on the maintenance and/or enhancement of cognitive abilities irrespective of age. In addition, the FLL courses seem to offer new opportunities for healthy seniors in the area of socializing and integration into society, which consequently may positively affect their overall well-being. Furthermore, the research shows that it is partly through the stimulation of social well-being that the cognitive effects of FLL might be observed. Cognitive aspects of older age are to be further investigated, including the importance of learning a foreign language, as basically all research conducted proves at least some maintenance or even improvement of cognitive functions of older people when starting intensive language training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanka Klimova
- Department of Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czechia
| | - Marcel Pikhart
- Department of Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czechia
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Klimova B. Learning a Foreign Language: A Review on Recent Findings About Its Effect on the Enhancement of Cognitive Functions Among Healthy Older Individuals. Front Hum Neurosci 2018; 12:305. [PMID: 30104969 PMCID: PMC6077199 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2018.00305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, there is an increasing number of older population groups, especially in developed countries. This demographic trend, however, may cause serious problems, such as an increase in aging diseases, one of which is dementia whose main symptom consists in the decline of cognitive functioning. Although there has been ongoing pharmacological research on this neurological disorder, it has not brought satisfying results as far as its treatment is concerned. Therefore, governments all over the world are trying to develop alternative, non-pharmacological strategies/activities, which could help to prevent this cognitive decline while this aging population is still healthy in order to reduce future economic and social burden. One of the non-pharmacological approaches, which may enhance cognitive abilities and protect against the decline in healthy older population, seems to be the learning of a foreign language. The purpose of this mini-review article is to discuss recent findings about the effect of foreign language learning on the enhancement of cognitive functions among healthy older individuals. The findings, divided into three research areas, show that the learning of a foreign language may generate a lot of benefits for older individuals, such as enhancement of cognitive functioning, their self-esteem, increased opportunities of socializing, or reduction of costs. However, as Ware et al. (2017) indicate, any intervention program on foreign language learning should be well thought of and tailored to the needs of older people in order to be effective and avoid accompanying factors, such as older people’s anxiety or low self-confidence. Nevertheless, more empirical studies should be done in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanka Klimova
- Department of Applied Linguistics, Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czechia
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10
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Baker S, Warburton J, Waycott J, Batchelor F, Hoang T, Dow B, Ozanne E, Vetere F. Combatting social isolation and increasing social participation of older adults through the use of technology: A systematic review of existing evidence. Australas J Ageing 2018; 37:184-193. [PMID: 30022583 DOI: 10.1111/ajag.12572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There are growing concerns that social isolation presents risks to older people's health and well-being. Thus, the objective of the review was to explore how technology is currently being utilised to combat social isolation and increase social participation, hence improving social outcomes for older people. METHODS A systematic review of the literature was conducted across the social science and human-computer interaction databases. RESULTS A total of 36 papers met the inclusion criteria and were analysed using a four-step process. Findings were threefold, suggesting that: (i) technologies principally utilised social network services and touch-screen technologies; (ii) social outcomes are often ill-defined or not defined at all; and (iii) methodologies used to evaluate interventions were often limited and small-scale. CONCLUSION Results suggest a need for studies that examine new and innovative forms of technology, evaluated with rigorous methodologies, and drawing on clear definitions about how these technologies address social isolation/participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Baker
- Microsoft Research Centre for Social Natural User Interfaces, School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jeni Warburton
- John Richards Initiative, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Wodonga, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jenny Waycott
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Thuong Hoang
- Microsoft Research Centre for Social Natural User Interfaces, School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Information Technology, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Briony Dow
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Ozanne
- Department of Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Frank Vetere
- Microsoft Research Centre for Social Natural User Interfaces, School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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11
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Välimäki M, Mishina K, Kaakinen JK, Holm SK, Vahlo J, Kirjonen M, Pekurinen V, Tenovuo O, Korkeila J, Hämäläinen H, Sarajuuri J, Rantanen P, Orenius T, Koponen A. Digital Gaming for Improving the Functioning of People With Traumatic Brain Injury: Randomized Clinical Feasibility Study. J Med Internet Res 2018; 20:e77. [PMID: 29555622 PMCID: PMC5881042 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.7618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major health problem that often requires intensive and long-term rehabilitation. Objective The aim of this study was to determine whether rehabilitative digital gaming facilitates cognitive functioning and general well-being in people with TBI. Methods A total of 90 Finnish-speaking adults with TBI (18-65 years) were recruited from an outpatient neuroscience clinic. The participants were randomly allocated to one of the three groups: a rehabilitation gaming group (n=29, intervention), an entertainment gaming group (n=29, active control), or a passive control group (n=32). The gaming groups were instructed to engage in gaming for a minimum of 30 min per day for 8 weeks. Primary and secondary outcomes were measured at three time points: before the intervention, after the intervention, and 3 months following the intervention. The primary outcome was cognitive status measured by processing speed and visuomotor tasks (The Trail Making Test; Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Fourth Edition, WAIS-IV, symbol search, coding, and cancellation tasks). Secondary outcomes were attention and executive functions (Simon task), working memory (WAIS-IV digit span and Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test, PASAT), depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), self-efficacy (General Self-efficacy Scale), and executive functions (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult Version). Feasibility information was assessed (acceptability, measurement instruments filled, dropouts, adherence, usability, satisfaction, and possible future use). Cognitive measurements were conducted in face-to-face interviews by trained psychologists, and questionnaires were self-administered. Results The effects of rehabilitation gaming did not significantly differ from the effects of entertainment gaming or being in a passive control group. For primary outcomes and PASAT tests, the participants in all three groups showed overall improvement in test scores across the three measurement points. However, depression scores increased significantly between baseline and after 8 weeks and between baseline and after 3 months in the rehabilitative gaming group. No differences were found in patients’ self-efficacy between the three measuring points in any of the groups. Participants did use the games (rehabilitation group: 93%, 27/29; entertainment group 100%, 29/29). Games were seen as a usable intervention (rehabilitation group: 70%, 14/29; entertainment group: 83%, 20/29). The rehabilitation group was less satisfied with the gaming intervention (68%, 13/29 vs 83%, 20/29), but they were more willing to use the game after the intervention period (76%, 16/29 vs 63%, 15/29). Total time spent on gaming during the intervention period was low (15.22 hour rehabilitation gaming group, 19.22 hour entertainment gaming group). Conclusions We did not find differences between the groups in improvement in the outcome measures. The improvements in test performance by all three groups may reflect rehearsal effects. Entertainment gaming had elements that could be considered when rehabilitative games are designed for, implemented in, and assessed in larger clinical trials for persons with TBI. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02425527; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02425527 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6esKI1uDH)
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Affiliation(s)
- Maritta Välimäki
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China (Hong Kong)
| | - Kaisa Mishina
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Johanna K Kaakinen
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Suvi K Holm
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jukka Vahlo
- Turku School of Economics, Centre for Collaborative Research, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Markus Kirjonen
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Virve Pekurinen
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Olli Tenovuo
- Division of Clinical Neurosciences, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jyrki Korkeila
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Psychiatric Care Division, Satakunta Hospital District, Harjavalta, Finland
| | - Heikki Hämäläinen
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | | | | | - Tage Orenius
- Orton Orthopaedic Hospital, Orton, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Aki Koponen
- Turku School of Economics, Centre for Collaborative Research, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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12
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Ballesteros S, Mayas J, Ruiz-Marquez E, Prieto A, Toril P, Ponce de Leon L, de Ceballos ML, Reales Avilés JM. Effects of Video Game Training on Behavioral and Electrophysiological Measures of Attention and Memory: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2017; 6:e8. [PMID: 28119279 PMCID: PMC5296621 DOI: 10.2196/resprot.6570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2016] [Revised: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 12/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroplasticity-based approaches seem to offer promising ways of maintaining cognitive health in older adults and postponing the onset of cognitive decline symptoms. Although previous research suggests that training can produce transfer effects, this study was designed to overcome some limitations of previous studies by incorporating an active control group and the assessment of training expectations. OBJECTIVE The main objectives of this study are (1) to evaluate the effects of a randomized computer-based intervention consisting of training older adults with nonaction video games on brain and cognitive functions that decline with age, including attention and spatial working memory, using behavioral measures and electrophysiological recordings (event-related potentials [ERPs]) just after training and after a 6-month no-contact period; (2) to explore whether motivation, engagement, or expectations might account for possible training-related improvements; and (3) to examine whether inflammatory mechanisms assessed with noninvasive measurement of C-reactive protein in saliva impair cognitive training-induced effects. A better understanding of these mechanisms could elucidate pathways that could be targeted in the future by either behavioral or neuropsychological interventions. METHODS A single-blinded randomized controlled trial with an experimental group and an active control group, pretest, posttest, and 6-month follow-up repeated measures design is used in this study. A total of 75 cognitively healthy older adults were randomly distributed into experimental and active control groups. Participants in the experimental group received 16 1-hour training sessions with cognitive nonaction video games selected from Lumosity, a commercial brain training package. The active control group received the same number of training sessions with The Sims and SimCity, a simulation strategy game. RESULTS We have recruited participants, have conducted the training protocol and pretest assessments, and are currently conducting posttest evaluations. The study will conclude in the first semester of 2017. Data analysis will take place during 2017. The primary outcome is transfer of benefit from training to attention and working memory functions and the neural mechanisms underlying possible cognitive improvements. CONCLUSIONS We expect that mental stimulation with video games will improve attention and memory both at the behavioral level and in ERP components promoting brain and mental health and extending independence among elderly people by avoiding the negative personal and economic consequences of long-term care. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02796508; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02796508 (archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6nFeKeFNB).
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Affiliation(s)
- Soledad Ballesteros
- Studies on Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Department of Basic Psychology II, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia Mayas
- Studies on Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Department of Basic Psychology II, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eloisa Ruiz-Marquez
- Studies on Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Department of Basic Psychology II, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Prieto
- Studies on Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Department of Basic Psychology II, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Toril
- Studies on Aging and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Group, Department of Basic Psychology II, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Ponce de Leon
- Facultad de Derecho, Department of Social Work, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria L de Ceballos
- Cajal Institute, Neurodegeneration Group, Departament of Translational Neurobiology and Biomedicine Research Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Manuel Reales Avilés
- Facultad de Psicología, Departamento Methodology of the Behavioral Sciences, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, Madrid, Spain
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13
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Van Grootven B, van Achterberg T. The European Union’s Ambient and Assisted Living Joint Programme: An evaluation of its impact on population health and well-being. Health Informatics J 2016; 25:27-40. [DOI: 10.1177/1460458216683535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The Ambient Assisted Living Joint Programme, instituted in 2008 by the European Union, aimed to create better living conditions for older adults through the funding of information and communications technology projects. This review aimed to uncover what can be learned from the Ambient Assisted Living Joint Programme by determining (1) the target populations served, (2) technology-based interventions used and (3) effects on health and well-being outcomes. Information from the Ambient Assisted Living catalogue, project websites and deliverables and from papers in PubMed and EMBASE was reviewed. Overall, 152 projects from the first six rounds of funding were identified. Sensors, computers, phones, tablets and televisions were used for various purposes, that is, monitoring, feedback, coaching, reminders and communication. In total, 12 projects reported evaluating health and well-being outcomes; however, these evaluations demonstrated poor methodological quality. Only three projects reported exact values. For all other projects, published evidence on the effect of these projects on health and well-being outcomes was not available.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Theo van Achterberg
- KU Leuven, Belgium; Uppsala University, Sweden; Radboud university medical center, Netherlands
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14
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Maintaining older brain functionality: A targeted review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 55:453-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2015] [Revised: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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