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Reine I, Miķelsone M, Tomsone S, Guðmundsson H, Ivanovs A, Guðmundsson HS, Koroļeva I. Unraveling the dynamics of loneliness in the Baltic-Nordic region: a comparative analysis in the wake of COVID-19. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1360285. [PMID: 38711769 PMCID: PMC11071080 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1360285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The primary aim of this study is to thoroughly investigate the prevalence and determinants of loneliness among older adults in the Baltic-Nordic region. Utilizing high-quality data sources and employing a methodologically rigorous approach, the study endeavors to enhance our understanding of how loneliness manifests and varies across different cultural and socio-economic contexts within these regions. By identifying key factors influencing loneliness, including demographic, social, and economic variables, the research seeks to contribute significantly to the existing body of knowledge on loneliness and inform targeted public health strategies and interventions tailored to the unique needs of older adults in the Baltic and Nordic countries. Material and methods This research, centered on older adults aged 67 and above within the Baltic-Nordic region, draws upon data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), specifically its eighth wave conducted between June and August 2020. The demographic analysis of this study covers a diverse sample of 5,313 participants from the Baltic and Nordic regions. Specifically, the sample includes 2,377 participants from Nordic countries, namely Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, and 2,936 from the Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The investigation extends to the financial well-being of households, involving an analysis of 3,925 individuals, with 1,748 from Nordic countries and 2,177 from Baltic countries. Although Iceland is categorized as a Nordic country, the analysis within this study is conducted separately due to the unavailability of SHARE data for this region. Instead, the HL20 study, focusing on the health and well-being of the older adult population in Iceland, contributes data for 1,033 respondents. This methodological distinction allows for a comprehensive understanding of regional differences, highlighting the importance of specialized approaches to examine the intricate dynamics of loneliness and well-being across the Baltic-Nordic region. Results The study reveals significant regional variations in loneliness among older adults during the COVID-19 outbreak, with the Baltic countries (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania) reporting a lower prevalence of loneliness compared to the Nordic countries (Sweden, Denmark, Finland). Iceland, while grouped with the Nordic countries, was analysed separately. Employment emerges as a key factor in reducing loneliness across all regions, suggesting the benefits of social interactions and structured routines. Gender and marital status significantly influence loneliness, with notable disparities in the Baltic region and smaller gaps in the Nordic countries, reflecting the impact of societal and cultural norms. Additionally, educational attainment and health status show varied associations with loneliness, highlighting the complex interplay of individual and societal factors in these regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ieva Reine
- Statistics Unit, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Signe Tomsone
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Helgi Guðmundsson
- Social Science Research Institute, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | | | - Ilze Koroļeva
- Statistics Unit, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
- Institute of Philosophy and Sociology, Latvia University, Riga, Latvia
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Maresova P, Komarkova L, Horak J, Krejcar O, Kukuliac P, Vitkova L, Joukl M, Truhlarova Z, Tomsone S. Unveiling Seniors' Perception of Mobility: Urbanization, Region, and Physical Activity. Patient Prefer Adherence 2023; 17:3015-3031. [PMID: 38027077 PMCID: PMC10675891 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s426789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Maintaining mobility is fundamental to active aging, allowing older adults to lead dynamic and independent lives. The perception of mobility among older adults significantly impacts their overall well-being and quality of life. Given the aging population, mobility has become an increasingly pressing issue. Aim This study focused on the perception of urban neighborhoods, including considerations of urban tissue (crossings and sidewalk maintenance), urban scenes (benches and traffic), and safety (fears and street lighting quality). We investigated the differences in the perception of the surroundings of residences by urban and rural seniors concerning their demographic and social characteristics and environmental determinants. Methods A quantitative study design utilizing a questionnaire survey was employed. Data were collected mainly through face-to-face interviews in the field (PAPI) and via an online questionnaire (CAWI). The final sample comprised 525 participants. Hypotheses regarding the influence of gender, age, social status, level of physical activity, degree of urbanization, and region on environmental perception were tested using ordinal regression. Results The hypothesis regarding the dependence of the perception of the surroundings on the level of urbanization was confirmed; that regarding the dependence of the perception of the residence surroundings on seniors' age was not confirmed. The other hypotheses were partially confirmed. For the seven investigated environmental attributes, gender was significant in two cases, social status and physical activity in three cases, and region in four cases. Conclusion While most studies have focused on urban settings, this study highlights the situation in rural municipalities. Substantially worse pedestrian conditions in availability of pedestrian crossings, benches, and lighting were recognized in rural municipalities versus cities. Understanding the complexity of mobility and the spatial locations relevant for older persons concerning potential barriers and facilitators for mobility aids in planning and adapting neighborhood environments to promote active and healthy aging in place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Maresova
- Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 500 03, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Komarkova
- Faculty of Management, Prague University of Economics and Business, Jindrichuv Hradec, 37701, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Horak
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VSB—Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, 70800, Czech Republic
| | - Ondrej Krejcar
- Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 500 03, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Kukuliac
- Faculty of Mining and Geology, VSB—Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, 70800, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Vitkova
- Philosophical Faculty, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 500 03, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Joukl
- Philosophical Faculty, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 500 03, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Truhlarova
- Faculty of Education, University of Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, 500 03, Czech Republic
| | - Signe Tomsone
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Riga Stradins University, Riga, LV-1007, Latvia
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Miķelsone M, Reine I, Tomsone S, Guðmundsson H, Ivanovs A, Guðmundsson HS. Construction of healthy aging index from two different datasets. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1231779. [PMID: 37744491 PMCID: PMC10513080 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1231779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The aging population presents both unique challenges and opportunities for societies around the world. To develop an effective healthy aging strategy, a tool for assessing aging process is needed. Numerous attempts to quantify the aging process have been made. However, there is still a challenge in developing and choosing a good enough score that is easy to apply, has a construct of variables that are available in most nationwide surveys for comparable results, and at the same time reflects the aging process of older individuals. The purpose of this study is to present our approach to construct a comparable Healthy Aging Index (HAI). Materials and methods In Latvia, data from Wave 8 of the Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), involving 420 respondents, were used. For comparative analysis, data from a HL20 study on the health and wellbeing of the older adults in Iceland, which included 1,033 respondents, were used. Results For Latvia, 13 items were selected, and for Iceland, nine items were selected. We constructed the HAI with four similar subscales for both countries-"Autonomy," "Health," "Wellbeing," and "Activities," and an additional subscale "Cognitive" for Latvia. We found matching items in all four subscales. For the Autonomy subscale, they were related to difficulties with everyday and daily tasks. In the Health subscale, the only matching item was self-rated physical health. One item related to loneliness was found for the Wellbeing subscale and one item related to social participation for the Activities subscale. Discussion In our study, we found evidence for the successful construction of a HAI in two different datasets. The strength of our construct lies in the use of data from one of the largest social science panel studies in Europe (SHARE). As we were able to apply the construct to the Icelandic study, we believe that items presented in our approach are available in other population-based studies as well, and, therefore, can be easily replicated by others. By examining the existing SHARE data, HAI could be used to analyze long-term changes and could provide a foundation for comparing and monitoring the evolution of aging over time as well as comparing the aging process across societies. This is required for the authorities to conduct further analyses, proposals, and action plans in support of healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ieva Reine
- Statistics Unit, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Signe Tomsone
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Helgi Guðmundsson
- Social Science Research Institute, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
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Reine I, Miķelsone M, Guðmundsson H, Ivanovs A, Tomsone S, Guðmundsson HS. Loneliness, social isolation and ageing: a methodological approach to compare Latvian and Icelandic older populations in the course of COVID-19 pandemic. Res Sq 2023:rs.3.rs-2870118. [PMID: 37205568 PMCID: PMC10187401 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2870118/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Background Feelings of loneliness and social isolation are common among the elderly, affecting both health and wellbeing. The COVID-19 pandemic has altered social connections through health precautions, restrictions and other factors. However, limited research has been conducted on how older people's health and wellbeing in different countries has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to develop methodology that would allow us to compare elderly populations, aged 67 + in Latvia and Iceland, and to discuss the potential impact of diverging factors on the association between loneliness, social isolation and health. Methods Quantitative data on 420 respondents from Wave 8 of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) was utilized in Latvia. Data on health and wellbeing of elderly in Iceland from a HL20 study with 1033 respondents was used to provide comparative analytic material for studying the differences between Latvia and Iceland, and within each country. Results The study revealed considerable differences between the countries regarding the frequency of loneliness and social isolation. About 80% of Latvian respondents felt socially isolated and 45% were lonely, compared to 42.7% socially isolated and 30% lonely Icelanders. In general, more elderly people in Latvia experienced difficulties than their peers in Iceland. Social isolation tends to differ across genders and age groups in both countries. This is related to marital and employment status, financial situation, and education. COVID-19 had a stronger deteriorating effect on mental and physical health among both lonely Latvian and Icelandic respondents. However, health deterioration was stronger amongst more socially isolated Icelanders compared to Latvians. Conclusions The study suggests that social isolation is a contributing factor and increases the risk of loneliness, which might have been enhanced by restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Epalte K, Tomsone S, Vētra A, Bērziņa G. Patient experience using digital therapy "Vigo" for stroke patient recovery: a qualitative descriptive study. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2023; 18:175-184. [PMID: 33155507 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2020.1839794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The digital assistant "Vigo" is a computer-generated artificial intelligence-based application that serves as a digital assistant to a stroke patient and his family. With its conversational chatbot and gamification elements it counsels, educates, and trains the stroke patient and patient's family on stroke, rehabilitation, care, and other related issues. AIM This study describes insights about The digital assitant "Vigo" usability from a patients' perspective. METHODS Twelve patients tested the application at their home environment. Three semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant to obtain information on the usability of the application. Deductive thematic analyses were used to analyze trancripts. RESULTS Participants expressed their opinions on music, pictures, video and audio files, chat options, layout, text, name of application and stand that is used for placement of devices on which "Vigo" is installed on. All participants generally evaluated application as transparent, understandable, and handy. The overall design of the application was rated as good. Participants were mostly unsatisfied with difficulty level and diversity of exercises. CONCLUSIONS Participants had a positive attitude towards using tablet tehchnologies in their home environment. Users of digital assistant "Vigo" acknowledged its ability to support, give educational information and increase participation in therapeutic activities.Implications for rehabilitationTablet application can support, give educational information, and increase participation in therapeutic activities for persons after stroke.As home-based rehabilitation tool, the content of the application must be simple, flexible, and diverse, to face the challenges of meeting each individual's goals, functional needs and abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klinta Epalte
- Department of Rehabilitation, Rīga Stradiņš University, Rīga, Latvia
| | - Signe Tomsone
- Department of Rehabilitation, Rīga Stradiņš University, Rīga, Latvia
| | - Aivars Vētra
- Department of Rehabilitation, Rīga Stradiņš University, Rīga, Latvia
| | - Guna Bērziņa
- Department of Rehabilitation, Rīga Stradiņš University, Rīga, Latvia.,Rīga East University Hospital, Rīga, Latvia
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Maresova P, Javanmardi E, Barakovic S, Barakovic Husic J, Tomsone S, Krejcar O, Kuca K. Consequences of chronic diseases and other limitations associated with old age - a scoping review. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1431. [PMID: 31675997 PMCID: PMC6823935 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7762-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The phenomenon of the increasing number of ageing people in the world is arguably the most significant economic, health and social challenge that we face today. Additionally, one of the major epidemiologic trends of current times is the increase in chronic and degenerative diseases. This paper tries to deliver a more up to date overview of chronic diseases and other limitations associated with old age and provide a more detailed outlook on the research that has gone into this field. Methods First, challenges for seniors, including chronic diseases and other limitations associated with old age, are specified. Second, a review of seniors’ needs and concerns is performed. Finally, solutions that can improve seniors’ quality of life are discussed. Publications obtained from the following databases are used in this scoping review: Web of Science, PubMed, and Science Direct. Four independent reviewers screened the identified records and selected relevant publications published from 2010 to 2017. A total of 1916 publications were selected. In all, 52 papers were selected based on abstract content. For further processing, 21 full papers were screened.” Results The results indicate disabilities as a major problem associated with seniors’ activities of daily living dependence. We founded seven categories of different conditions - psychological problems, difficulties in mobility, poor cognitive function, falls and incidents, wounds and injuries, undernutrition, and communication problems. In order to minimize ageing consequences, some areas require more attention, such as education and training; technological tools; government support and welfare systems; early diagnosis of undernutrition, cognitive impairment, and other diseases; communication solutions; mobility solutions; and social contributions. Conclusions This scoping review supports the view on chronic diseases in old age as a complex issue. To prevent the consequences of chronic diseases and other limitations associated with old age related problems demands multicomponent interventions. Early recognition of problems leading to disability and activities of daily living (ADL) dependence should be one of essential components of such interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Maresova
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Rokitanskeho 62, 500 03, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Ehsan Javanmardi
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Rokitanskeho 62, 500 03, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Sabina Barakovic
- Faculty of Traffic and Communications, University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | | | - Signe Tomsone
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, Riga Stradinš University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Ondrej Krejcar
- Center of Basic and Applied Research, Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Rokitanskeho 62, 500 03, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Kuca
- Center of Basic and Applied Research, Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Rokitanskeho 62, 500 03, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic. .,Malaysia Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra, 54100, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Cešeiko R, Eglītis J, Srebnijs A, Timofejevs M, Purmalis E, Erts R, Vētra A, Tomsone S. The impact of maximal strength training on quality of life among women with breast cancer undergoing treatment. Exp Oncol 2019; 41:166-172. [PMID: 31262153 DOI: 10.32471/exp-oncology.2312-8852.vol-41-no-2.13249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Cancer rehabilitation programs mainly involve endurance cardio training while little attention has been paid to strength training. Breast cancer (BC) patients lose muscle strength while undergoing adjuvant treatment, thus affecting daily activities and quality of life. Maximal strength training, with an emphasis on velocity in the concentric phase, improves maximal strength and muscle force development characteristics. However, the effect of maximal strength training on quality of life for BC patients undergoing treatment remains elusive. Consequently, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of maximal strength training in Health related quality of life in women with newly diagnosed BC. MATERIALS AND METHODS 55 BC patients with disease stage I-III were randomized into a training group and control group. The training group performed maximal strength training twice a week for 3 months, whereas the control group followed prescribed treatment without strength training. Overall quality of life was measured by The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of life Questionnaire-C30 and additional BC module BR23 before and after the intervention. RESULTS The results obtained from pre-tests and those obtained after 3 months of intervention revealed that patients in the training group significantly increased one repetion maximum, by 20.4 kg (20%) (p = 0.001, d = 0.9). Simultaneously, statistically significant alterations were observed in this variable for the control group, one repetition maximum decreased by 8.9 kg (9%) (p = 0.001, d = 0.5). The overall quality of life improved significantly by 13% for the training group with large effect (p = 0.002, d = 0.6), but no relevant changes were observed in the control group (p = 0.44, d = 0.2). Results revealed remarkable changes in overall quality of life after 3-month post-test period between the two groups with large effect (p = 0.002, d = 0.9). The training sessions had helped in diminishing the sense of fatigue by 24% (p = 0.03, d = 0.6), while it had got worse by 25% (p = 0.02, d = 0.4) for the control group. Again, the data on large effect were noticed to differ between the groups (p = 0.01, d = 0.6). CONCLUSION Maximal strength training for BC patients was well tolerated, safe and feasible and showed strength improvements that led to improved muscle strength and improved overall quality of life. These data certainly support the therapeutic role for maximal strength training in the treatment of BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Cešeiko
- Rīga Stradiņš University, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Riga LV-1007, Latvia
| | - J Eglītis
- Rīga Eastern Clinical University Hospital, Oncology Centre of Latvia, Riga LV-1007, Latvia
| | - A Srebnijs
- Rīga Eastern Clinical University Hospital, Oncology Centre of Latvia, Riga LV-1007, Latvia
| | - M Timofejevs
- Rīga Eastern Clinical University Hospital, Oncology Centre of Latvia, Riga LV-1007, Latvia
| | - E Purmalis
- Rīga Eastern Clinical University Hospital, Oncology Centre of Latvia, Riga LV-1007, Latvia
| | - R Erts
- University of Latvia, Riga LV-1007, Latvia
| | - A Vētra
- Rīga Stradiņš University, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Riga LV-1007, Latvia
| | - S Tomsone
- Rīga Stradiņš University, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Riga LV-1007, Latvia
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Cešeiko R, Tomsone S, Srebnijs A, Vētra A, Timofejevs M, Purmalis E, Eglītis J. Maximal Strength Training for Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Adjuvant Treatment. J Glob Oncol 2018. [DOI: 10.1200/jgo.18.29400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer (BC) patients lose muscle strength during adjuvant treatment, thus affecting physical functioning. Maximal strength training (MST), with an emphasis on velocity in the concentric phase, improves maximal strength and walking efficiency. However, the effect of MST for BC patients undergoing treatment remains elusive. Aim: The aim of this study was to examine the feasibility and effects of such training in BC patients during clinical treatment on maximal muscle strength and functional performance. Methods: Thirty patients (46 ± 9 yr) with stage I-III BC were randomized to training group (TG) or control group (CG). TG performed MST twice a week for 3 months and CG followed prescribed BC treatment without strength training. TG performed four sets of four repetitions (4×4) of dynamic leg press with an emphasis on the maximal mobilization of force in the concentric action and with a progressively adjusted intensity corresponding to 85%–90% of one repetition maximum (1RM). Results: After the MST period, TG displayed significant 25 ± 7 kg (23%) increase in leg press 1RM ( P = 0.001). The strength improvements led to a significant increase in 6 minute walk distance (8%), 30-second chair test (23%), stair climb test (17%), and to a significant increase in walking performance of (8%) measured on an incremental treadmill test to exhaustion. In 3 months' posttest CG displayed significant 10 ± 8 kg (9%) decrease in 1RM ( P = 0.006). Reduced muscle strength leg to a significant decrease in 6 minute walk distance (6%), 30-second chair test (14%), stair climb test by (8%), and walking performance reduced significantly by (17%). Significant changes from pre to 3 months' posttest were observed between TG and CG in all functional performance measured variables. Conclusion: Maximal strength training was feasible during treatment and increased maximal muscle strength in BC patients. Increased strength led to improved functional performance after 24 training sessions each lasting only 20 min. Our results suggest that application of MST could accompany clinical training as a part of the treatment of BC patients. This training form showed excellent improvements in physical function tests and, thus should be implemented as a part of the breast cancer rehabilitation programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Cešeiko
- Rīga Stradiņš University, Doctoral Study Program - Medicine, Riga, Latvia
| | - S. Tomsone
- Rīga Stradiņš University, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Rīga, Latvia
| | - A. Srebnijs
- Rīga Eastern Clinical University Hospital, Oncology Centre of Latvia, Rīga, Latvia
| | - A. Vētra
- Rīga Stradiņš University, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Rīga, Latvia
| | - M. Timofejevs
- Rīga Eastern Clinical University Hospital, Oncology Centre of Latvia, Rīga, Latvia
| | - E. Purmalis
- Rīga Eastern Clinical University Hospital, Oncology Centre of Latvia, Rīga, Latvia
| | - J. Eglītis
- Rīga Eastern Clinical University Hospital, Oncology Centre of Latvia, Rīga, Latvia
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Maresova P, Tomsone S, Lameski P, Madureira J, Mendes A, Zdravevski E, Chorbev I, Trajkovik V, Ellen M, Rodil K. Technological Solutions for Older People with Alzheimer's Disease: Review. Curr Alzheimer Res 2018; 15:975-983. [PMID: 29701154 PMCID: PMC6128069 DOI: 10.2174/1567205015666180427124547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
In the nineties, numerous studies began to highlight the problem of the increasing number of people with Alzheimer's disease in developed countries, especially in the context of demographic progress. At the same time, the 21st century is typical of the development of advanced technologies that penetrate all areas of human life. Digital devices, sensors, and intelligent applications are tools that can help seniors and allow better communication and control of their caregivers. The aim of the paper is to provide an up-to-date summary of the use of technological solutions for improving health and safety for people with Alzheimer's disease. Firstly, the problems and needs of senior citizens with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and their caregivers are specified. Secondly, a scoping review is performed regarding the technological solutions suggested to assist this specific group of patients. Works obtained from the following libraries are used in this scoping review: Web of Science, PubMed, Springer, ACM and IEEE Xplore. Four independent reviewers screened the identified records and selected relevant articles which were published in the period from 2007 to 2018. A total of 6,705 publications were selected. In all, 128 full papers were screened. Results obtained from the relevant studies were furthermore divided into the following categories according to the type and use of technologies: devices, processing, and activity recognition. The leading technological solution in the category of devices are wearables and ambient noninvasive sensors. The introduction and utilization of these technologies, however, bring about challenges in acceptability, durability, ease of use, communication, and power requirements. Furthermore, it needs to be pointed out that these technological solutions should be based on open standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Maresova
- Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Economics, Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Rokitanskeho 62, 50003, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic; Tel: + 420 737 928 745; E-mail:
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Iwarsson S, Löfqvist C, Oswald F, Slaug B, Schmidt S, Wahl HW, Tomsone S, Himmelsbach I, Haak M. Synthesizing ENABLE-AGE Research Findings to Suggest Evidence-Based Home and Health Interventions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/02763893.2016.1198742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Jonsson O, Slaug B, Haak M, Mårtensson K, Schmidt SM, Oswald F, Rimland JM, Tomsone S, Svensson T, Iwarsson S. The "Free from Housing Accessibility Problems" App. Stud Health Technol Inform 2016; 229:567-570. [PMID: 27534351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The present study concerns the development of a computerized tool targeting housing accessibility issues. A user-centered approach involving professionals from the housing sector and senior citizens from four European countries resulted in a fully functional prototype of a mobile application (app) including an apartment database. The app raises awareness on housing accessibility and has the potential to support decision making and strengthen all citizens regardless of functional capacity to be more active in their endeavors for a satisfying housing solution. Further refinements and additional features are needed to enhance the potential benefits; they include addressing potential challenges facing senior citizens, developing interactive features that allow users to provide input and adapting to different national contexts to make the app applicable for the European market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oskar Jonsson
- Dept. of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Björn Slaug
- Dept. of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Maria Haak
- Dept. of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Steven M Schmidt
- Dept. of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Frank Oswald
- Interdisciplinary Ageing Research, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Joseph M Rimland
- Italian National Institute of Health and Science on Aging (INRCA), Ancona, Italy
| | - Signe Tomsone
- Dept. of Rehabilitation, Riga Stradins University, Riga, Latvia
| | - Torbjörn Svensson
- Dept. of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Susanne Iwarsson
- Dept. of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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12
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Harschel AK, Schaap LA, Iwarsson S, Horstmann V, Tomsone S. Self-Rated Health Among Very Old People in European Countries: An Explorative Study in Latvia and Sweden. Gerontol Geriatr Med 2015; 1:2333721415598432. [PMID: 28138462 PMCID: PMC5119794 DOI: 10.1177/2333721415598432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To explore and gain insight into factors related to self-rated health (SRH) among very old people in two European countries. Methods: The study was based on Latvian (n = 301) and Swedish (n = 397) data from the baseline of the Enabling Autonomy, Participation, and Well-Being in Old Age: The Home Environment as a Determinant for Healthy Ageing Survey Study. Besides descriptive statistics, ordinal regression analysis was used to analyze demographic, physical and mental health-related, functional and environmental factors related to SRH in each sample. Results: In both samples, participants with worse perceived physical mobility and more symptoms were significantly more likely to have worse SRH. There were more diverse results regarding other factors in terms of opposite relations to SRH, comparing the two samples. Discussion: Preventive measures and health care should focus on improving and supporting mobility and physical health among older people. Especially in countries with low scores on indicators of health such as Latvia, to minimize health inequalities. More attention should be paid to factors to improve the general health status of the population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Signe Tomsone
- Lund University, Sweden; Riga Stradins University, Latvia
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13
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Abstract
AIM To explore the experiences over time of using mobility devices (MDs) among very old women in the context of everyday life in Latvia. METHODS This study utilized a multiple case-study design that employed an explanatory mixed-methods approach. A combination of quantitative survey data on home and health and qualitative interview data for each participant were used to create three narratives to describe the experiences of MD use in everyday life over time, followed by a cross-case analysis. RESULTS The three cases illustrate that very old women accept and use MDs due to walking difficulties and related needs. Over time, functional decline combined with physical environmental barriers and changes in their social networks limited the supportive role that available MDs could offer these women. CONCLUSIONS The findings contribute to the understanding of the complexity of MD use in everyday life among very old women in Latvia and the need for different kinds of MDs. These findings illustrate the importance of considering the interaction between people's everyday life situation and their physical environment for their optimal use of MDs. This is important information for policy-makers who can optimize the services for old people in Latvia and support the need for occupational therapists' professional competence for the planning and development of MD provision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Signe Tomsone
- a a Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University , Lund, Sweden ;,b b Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Rehabilitation, Rīga Stradiņš University , Riga, Latvia
| | - Maria Haak
- a a Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University , Lund, Sweden
| | - Charlotte Löfqvist
- a a Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University , Lund, Sweden
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14
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Haak M, Slaug B, Oswald F, Schmidt SM, Rimland JM, Tomsone S, Ladö T, Svensson T, Iwarsson S. Cross-national user priorities for housing provision and accessibility--findings from the European innovAge Project. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2015; 12:2670-86. [PMID: 25739003 PMCID: PMC4377925 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120302670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Revised: 02/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
To develop an innovative information and communication technology (ICT) tool intended to help older people in their search for optimal housing solutions, a first step in the development process is to gain knowledge from the intended users. Thus the aim of this study was to deepen the knowledge about needs and expectations about housing options as expressed and prioritized by older people, people ageing with disabilities and professionals. A participatory design focus was adopted; 26 people with a range of functional limitations representing the user perspective and 15 professionals with a variety of backgrounds, participated in research circles that were conducted in four European countries. An additional 20 experts were invited as guests to the different research circle meetings. Three themes illustrating cross-national user priorities for housing provision and accessibility were identified: "Information barrier: accessible housing", "Information barrier: housing adaptation benefits", and "Cost barrier: housing adaptations". In conclusion, early user involvement and identification of cross-national differences in priorities and housing options will strengthen the development of a user-friendly ICT tool that can empower older people and people with disabilities to be more active consumers regarding housing provision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Haak
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Box 157, 221 00 Lund, Sweden.
| | - Björn Slaug
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Box 157, 221 00 Lund, Sweden.
| | - Frank Oswald
- Interdisciplinary Ageing Research, Goethe University Frankfurt/Main, Frankfurt 60323, Germany.
| | - Steven M Schmidt
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Box 157, 221 00 Lund, Sweden.
| | - Joseph M Rimland
- Italian National Research Center on Ageing (INRCA), Via Santa Margherita, 5-60124 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Signe Tomsone
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Box 157, 221 00 Lund, Sweden.
- Department of Rehabilitation, Riga Stradins University, Dzirciema iela 16, LV 1007, Latvia.
| | - Thomas Ladö
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Box 157, 221 00 Lund, Sweden.
| | - Torbjörn Svensson
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Box 157, 221 00 Lund, Sweden.
| | - Susanne Iwarsson
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Box 157, 221 00 Lund, Sweden.
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15
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Kylberg M, Löfqvist C, Tomsone S, Phillips J, Liepina Z, Iwarsson S. A European Perspective on the Service Delivery Systems for Assistive Technology – Differences and Similarities Between Latvia and Sweden. J Cross Cult Gerontol 2014; 30:51-67. [DOI: 10.1007/s10823-014-9255-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Tomsone S, Cibule L. Everyday technologies as intervention media: hands-on practice for undergraduate occupational therapy students in Latvia. World Federation of Occupational Therapists Bulletin 2014. [DOI: 10.1179/otb.2014.69.1.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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17
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Sixsmith J, Sixsmith A, Fänge AM, Naumann D, Kucsera C, Tomsone S, Haak M, Dahlin-Ivanoff S, Woolrych R. Healthy ageing and home: the perspectives of very old people in five European countries. Soc Sci Med 2014; 106:1-9. [PMID: 24524960 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2014.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Revised: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This paper reports on in-depth research, using a grounded theory approach, to examine the ways in which very old people perceive healthy ageing in the context of living alone at home within urban settings in five European countries. This qualitative study was part of a cross-national project entitled ENABLE-AGE which examined the relationship between home and healthy ageing. Interviews explored the notion of healthy ageing, the meaning and importance of home, conceptualisations of independence and autonomy and links between healthy ageing and home. Data analysis identified five ways in which older people constructed healthy ageing: home and keeping active; managing lifestyles, health and illness; balancing social life; and balancing material and financial circumstances. Older people reflected on their everyday lives at home in terms of being engaged in purposeful, meaningful action and evaluated healthy ageing in relation to the symbolic and practical affordances of the home, contextualised within constructions of their national context. The research suggests that older people perceive healthy ageing as an active achievement, created through individual, personal effort and supported through social ties despite the health, financial and social decline associated with growing older. The physicality and spatiality of home provided the context for establishing and evaluating the notion of healthy ageing, whilst the experienced relationship between home, life history and identity created a meaningful space within which healthy ageing was negotiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Sixsmith
- University of Northampton, Park Campus, Boughton Green Road, Northampton, England; Simon Fraser University, Harbour Centre, West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - A Sixsmith
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University, West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - A Malmgren Fänge
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Sweden
| | - D Naumann
- German Centre for Research on Ageing, University of Heidelberg, Germany
| | - C Kucsera
- Institute for Prospective Technological Studies (IPTS), Joint Research Centre, European Commission, Seville, Spain; Institute for Sociology, Centre for Social Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - S Tomsone
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Sweden; Department of Rehabilitation, Riga Stradins University, Latvia
| | - M Haak
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Sweden
| | - S Dahlin-Ivanoff
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - R Woolrych
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University, West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Oswald F, Wahl HW, Schilling O, Nygren C, Fänge A, Sixsmith A, Sixsmith J, Széman Z, Tomsone S, Iwarsson S. Relationships between housing and healthy aging in very old age. Gerontologist 2007; 47:96-107. [PMID: 17327545 DOI: 10.1093/geront/47.1.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 260] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this work is to examine the relationship between aspects of objective and perceived housing and aspects of healthy aging, defined as independence in daily activities and subjective well-being. Furthermore, this research examined the comparability of relationships between housing and healthy aging in the five European countries. DESIGN AND METHODS Data were drawn from the ENABLE-AGE Project, from home interviews with a sample of 1,918 very old people aged 75 to 89 years living alone in their own homes in Swedish, German, British, Hungarian and Latvian urban areas. RESULTS Participants living in better accessible homes, who perceive their home as meaningful and useful, and who think that external influences are not responsible for their housing situation are more independent in daily activities and have a better sense of well-being. Moreover, these results apply to all five national samples. IMPLICATIONS The findings can widen the perspective when striving for barrier-free building standards, to encompass a holistic approach that takes both objective and perceived aspects of housing into account. Home modification and relocation should not be prescribed, but need to be negotiated with older adults to take into account their personal preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Oswald
- Department of Psychological Ageing Research, Institute of Psychology, University of Heidelberg, Bergheimer Str. 20, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany.
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Nygren C, Oswald F, Iwarsson S, Fänge A, Sixsmith J, Schilling O, Sixsmith A, Széman Z, Tomsone S, Wahl HW. Relationships between objective and perceived housing in very old age. Gerontologist 2007; 47:85-95. [PMID: 17327544 DOI: 10.1093/geront/47.1.85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Our purpose in this study was to explore relationships between aspects of objective and perceived housing in five European samples of very old adults, as well as to investigate whether cross-national comparable patterns exist. DESIGN AND METHODS We utilized data from the first wave of the ENABLE-AGE Survey Study. The five national samples totalled 1,918 individuals aged 75 to 89 years. Objective assessments of the home environment covered the number of environmental barriers as well as the magnitude of accessibility problems (an aspect of person-environment fit). To assess perceptions of housing, we used instruments on usability, meaning of home, and housing satisfaction. We also assessed housing-related control. RESULTS Overall, the results revealed that the magnitude of accessibility problems, rather than the number of physical environmental barriers, was associated with perceptions of activity-oriented aspects of housing. That is, very old people living in more accessible housing perceived their homes as more useful and meaningful in relation to their routines and everyday activities, and they were less dependent on external control in relation to their housing. The patterns of such relationships were similar in the five national samples. IMPLICATIONS Objective and perceived aspects of housing have to be considered in order to understand the dynamics of aging in place, and the results can be used in practice contexts that target housing for senior citizens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carita Nygren
- Research Unit of Occupational Therapy, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Winsløws vej 9B 5000, Odense C, Denmark.
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Iwarsson S, Wahl HW, Nygren C, Oswald F, Sixsmith A, Sixsmith J, Széman Z, Tomsone S. Importance of the Home Environment for Healthy Aging: Conceptual and Methodological Background of the European ENABLE–AGE Project. The Gerontologist 2007; 47:78-84. [PMID: 17327543 DOI: 10.1093/geront/47.1.78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Iwarsson
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Box 157, 221 00 Sweden.
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