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Knuutila MT, Rautiainen L, Lehti TE, Karppinen H, Kautiainen H, Strandberg TE, Öhman H, Savikko NM, Jansson AH, Pitkälä KH. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Older People's Loneliness: Findings from a Longitudinal Study between 2019 and 2021 among Older Home-Dwellers in Finland. J Nutr Health Aging 2023; 27:619-625. [PMID: 37702334 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-023-1949-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the change in feelings of loneliness among Finnish community-dwelling older people from before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019 to during the pandemic in 2021. Moreover, we explore the changes in other dimensions of psychological well-being (PWB) during the study period. DESIGN Questionnaires were mailed in the 2019 Helsinki Aging Study, a repeated cohort study. A follow-up interview was carried on over the telephone during the year 2021. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS A random sample of 2,917 home-dwelling older people aged 75-104 years residing in Helsinki, Finland were mailed the questionnaire. Altogether 898 participated in the follow-up. MEASUREMENTS Loneliness was measured using a single item question "Do you suffer from loneliness?". Other items of psychological well-being were measured: "Are you satisfied with your life?" (yes/no), "Do you feel useful?" (yes/no), "Do you have a zest for life?" (yes/no),"Do you have plans for the future?" (yes/no), and "Do you feel depressed?"("rarely or never"/ "sometimes"/ "often or always"). RESULTS Altogether 898 people participated both in 2019 and 2021. The subjects' mean age was 83 years and 66% were women. Between 2019 and 2021, the prevalence of experienced loneliness increased among older home-dwellers from 26% to 30%. During two years of the pandemic feelings of loneliness (RR 1.79, 95% CI: 1.30 to 2.46) and depression (RR 1.37, 95% CI: 1.12 to 1.67) increased even adjusted with various confounders. CONCLUSION Considering the impact loneliness has on health and well-being, the finding of increased feelings of loneliness among older people is alarming. Actions to combat loneliness need to be taken.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Knuutila
- Mia Knuutila, Tammisalontie 20 as 4, 00830 Helsinki, Finland, , ORCID ID: 0000-0001-5220-103X
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Jyväkorpi SK, Lindström M, Suominen MH, Kautiainen H, Salminen K, Niskanen RT, Pitkälä KH, Roitto HM. Relationship between frailty, nutrition, body composition, quality of life, and gender in institutionalized older people. Aging Clin Exp Res 2022; 34:1357-1363. [PMID: 35146701 PMCID: PMC9151503 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-022-02077-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Our aim was to explore the relationship between frailty, nutrition, body composition, and how gender modifies this relationship among long-term care facility residents. We further investigated how body composition correlates with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in both genders. In all, 549 residents (> 65 years of age) were recruited from 17 long-term care facilities for this cross-sectional study. Demographic information, diagnoses, use of medications, and nutritional supplements were retrieved from medical records. Participants' frailty status, cognition, nutritional status, HRQoL, and body composition were determined. Energy, protein, and fat intakes were retrieved from 1- to 2-day food diaries. The final sample consisted of 300 residents (77% women, mean age 83 years). The majority of participants, 62% of women and 63% of men, were identified as frail. Frail participants in both genders showed lower body mass index (p = 0.0013), muscle mass (MM) (p < 0.001), poorer nutritional status (p = 0.0012), cognition (p = 0.0021), and lower HRQoL (p < 0.001) than did prefrail participants. Women had higher fat mass, whereas men exhibited higher MM. The HRQoL correlated with the MM in both women, r = 0.48 [95% CI 0.38, 0.57] and men r = 0.49 [95% CI 0.38, 0.58]. Interventions aimed at strengthening and retaining MM of long-term residents may also support their HRQoL.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Lindström
- City of Helsinki Department of Social Services and Health Care, Geriatric Clinic, Helsinki Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | - K Salminen
- University of Helsinki, Clinicum, Finland
| | | | | | - H-M Roitto
- City of Helsinki Department of Social Services and Health Care, Geriatric Clinic, Helsinki Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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3
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Lehti TE, Öhman H, Knuutila M, Kautiainen H, Karppinen H, Tilvis R, Strandberg T, Pitkälä KH. Symptom burden in community-dwelling older people: temporal trends in the Helsinki Aging Study. Aging Clin Exp Res 2021; 33:3065-3071. [PMID: 34216378 PMCID: PMC8595189 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-021-01918-8] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Changes in older people’s symptoms across recent decades have not been investigated. Aims We analyzed temporal trends in symptom burden by comparing data from independent, cross-sectional cohorts retrieved in 1989, 1999, 2009, and 2019. Furthermore, we compared the association between symptom burden and psychological wellbeing (PWB) in older men and women. Methods The Helsinki Aging Study recruited a random sample of people aged 75, 80, and 85 in 1989, and random samples aged 75, 80, 85, 90, and 95 in 1999, 2009, and 2019 (four study waves). Altogether, 6263 community-dwelling people answered the questions concerning symptoms in the questionnaire surveys. The symptoms inquired in all study waves were dizziness, back pain, joint pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, and loss of appetite. Symptom burden was calculated according to the number of symptoms and their frequency (score range: 0–6). PWB and the Charlson comorbidity index were calculated. Results Symptom burden decreased in both men and women aged 75 and 80 from 1989 to 2019. Changes in cohorts aged 85 + were nonsignificant. There was a significant difference in symptom burden between men and women in all ages with men having fewer symptoms. PWB decreased with increasing symptom burden. Men had greater PWB than women up to severe levels of symptom burden. Conclusions Symptom burden decreased from 1989 to 2019 in cohorts aged 75–80, whereas changes remained nonsignificant in cohorts aged 85 +. To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine temporal trends in symptom burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- T E Lehti
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Social Services and Health Care, Helsinki, Finland.
- Primary Health Care Unit, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
- , Tukholmankatu 8 B, Biomedicum 2 B, 00290, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - H Öhman
- Geriatric Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Knuutila
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Social Services and Health Care, Helsinki, Finland
| | - H Kautiainen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - H Karppinen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - R Tilvis
- Geriatric Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - T Strandberg
- Geriatric Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - K H Pitkälä
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Primary Health Care Unit, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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4
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Lehti TE, Rinkinen MO, Aalto U, Roitto HM, Knuutila M, Öhman H, Kautiainen H, Karppinen H, Tilvis R, Strandberg T, Pitkälä KH. Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Pain and Analgesic Treatment Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Changes from 1999 to 2019. Drugs Aging 2021; 38:931-937. [PMID: 34386937 PMCID: PMC8484214 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-021-00888-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Pain is undertreated in older populations. At the same time, increased use of opioids is of concern in the Western world. Aims We sought to analyze temporal trends in musculoskeletal pain and prescribed analgesic treatment among community-dwelling people aged 75–95 years using cross-sectional cohort data spanning 20 years. Methods The Helsinki Aging Study recruited random samples of people aged 75, 80, 85, 90, and 95 years in 1999, 2009, and 2019. In total, 5707 community-dwelling persons participated in the study. The participants reported their medical diagnoses, regular prescription medications, and the presence of back pain or joint pain within the last 2 weeks (never, sometimes, or daily). We compared analgesic use among participants reporting and not reporting musculoskeletal pain in 1999, 2009, and 2019. Results Of the participants, 57–61% reported intermittent or daily musculoskeletal pain. The percentage receiving a prescribed daily analgesic increased from 9% in 1999 to 16% in 2019. The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) decreased from 1999 to 2019, while the use of paracetamol increased from 2 to 11%. Opioids were taken by 2% in 1999 and 3% in 2019. Of those reporting daily musculoskeletal pain, 20%, 35%, and 32% received regular pain medication in 1999, 2009, and 2019, respectively. Conclusions Pain remains undertreated in the community-dwelling older population, although the use of regular prescribed analgesics increased between 1999 and 2019. The use of NSAIDs has decreased, while the use of paracetamol has increased. Daily opioid use has remained modest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuuli Elina Lehti
- Primary Health Care Unit, Helsinki University Hospital, Ilkantie 10 B 22, 00400, Helsinki, Finland. .,Social Services and Health Care Division, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland. .,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - M-O Rinkinen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - U Aalto
- Social Services and Health Care Division, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - H M Roitto
- Social Services and Health Care Division, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Knuutila
- Social Services and Health Care Division, City of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - H Öhman
- Geriatric Medicine, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - H Kautiainen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - H Karppinen
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - R Tilvis
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - T Strandberg
- Geriatric Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - K H Pitkälä
- Primary Health Care Unit, Helsinki University Hospital, Ilkantie 10 B 22, 00400, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Jyväkorpi SK, Ramel A, Strandberg TE, Piotrowicz K, Błaszczyk-Bębenek E, Urtamo A, Rempe HM, Geirsdóttir Ó, Vágnerová T, Billot M, Larreur A, Savera G, Soriano G, Picauron C, Tagliaferri S, Sanchez-Puelles C, Cadenas VS, Perl A, Tirrel L, Öhman H, Weling-Scheepers C, Ambrosi S, Costantini A, Pavelková K, Klimkova M, Freiberger E, Jonsson PV, Marzetti E, Pitkälä KH, Landi F, Calvani R. The sarcopenia and physical frailty in older people: multi-component treatment strategies (SPRINTT) project: description and feasibility of a nutrition intervention in community-dwelling older Europeans. Eur Geriatr Med 2021; 12:303-312. [PMID: 33583000 PMCID: PMC7990826 DOI: 10.1007/s41999-020-00438-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [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: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The "Sarcopenia and Physical Frailty in Older People: Multicomponent Treatment Strategies" (SPRINTT) project sponsored a multi-center randomized controlled trial (RCT) with the objective to determine the effect of physical activity and nutrition intervention for prevention of mobility disability in community-dwelling frail older Europeans. We describe here the design and feasibility of the SPRINTT nutrition intervention, including techniques used by nutrition interventionists to identify those at risk of malnutrition and to carry out the nutrition intervention. METHODS SPRINTT RCT recruited older adults (≥ 70 years) from 11 European countries. Eligible participants (n = 1517) had functional limitations measured with Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB score 3-9) and low muscle mass as determined by DXA scans, but were able to walk 400 m without assistance within 15 min. Participants were followed up for up to 3 years. The nutrition intervention was carried out mainly by individual nutrition counseling. Nutrition goals included achieving a daily protein intake of 1.0-1.2 g/kg body weight, energy intake of 25-30 kcal/kg of body weight/day, and serum vitamin D concentration ≥ 75 mmol/L. Survey on the method strategies and feasibility of the nutrition intervention was sent to all nutrition interventionists of the 16 SPRINTT study sites. RESULTS Nutrition interventionists from all study sites responded to the survey. All responders found that the SPRINTT nutrition intervention was feasible for the target population, and it was well received by the majority. The identification of participants at nutritional risk was accomplished by combining information from interviews, questionnaires, clinical and laboratory data. Although the nutrition intervention was mainly carried out using individual nutritional counselling, other assisting methods were used as appropriate. CONCLUSION The SPRINTT nutrition intervention was feasible and able to adapt flexibly to varying needs of this heterogeneous population. The procedures adopted to identify older adults at risk of malnutrition and to design the appropriate intervention may serve as a model to deliver nutrition intervention for community-dwelling older people with mobility limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Jyväkorpi
- Clinicum, Department of General Practice, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Tukholmankatu 8 B, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - A Ramel
- The Icelandic Gerontological Research Center, The National University Hospital of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - T E Strandberg
- Clinicum, Department of General Practice, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Tukholmankatu 8 B, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.,University of Oulu, Center for Life Course Health Research, Oulu, Finland
| | - K Piotrowicz
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine and Gerontology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - E Błaszczyk-Bębenek
- Department of Nutrition and Drug Research, Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health Science, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - A Urtamo
- Clinicum, Department of General Practice, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Tukholmankatu 8 B, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - H M Rempe
- Institute for Biomedicine of Aging, Friedrich-Alexander-University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ó Geirsdóttir
- The Icelandic Gerontological Research Center, The National University Hospital of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - T Vágnerová
- 1St Faculty of Medicine, Department of Gerontology & Geriatrics, Charles University in Prague, General University Hospital Prague, Nové Město, Czech Republic
| | - M Billot
- PRISMATICS Lab (Predictive Research In Spine/Neuromodulation Management And Thoracic Innovation/Cardiac Surgery), Poitiers University Hospital, Poitiers, France
| | - A Larreur
- Department of Geriatrics, University Hospital of Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - G Savera
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - G Soriano
- Gérontopôle, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - C Picauron
- Gérontopôle, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - S Tagliaferri
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | | | - A Perl
- Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - L Tirrel
- Diabetes Frail, Medici Medical Practice, Luton, UK
| | - H Öhman
- Clinicum, Department of General Practice, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Tukholmankatu 8 B, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | - M Klimkova
- Silesian Hospital, Opava, Czech Republic
| | - E Freiberger
- 1St Faculty of Medicine, Department of Gerontology & Geriatrics, Charles University in Prague, General University Hospital Prague, Nové Město, Czech Republic
| | - P V Jonsson
- The Icelandic Gerontological Research Center, The National University Hospital of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - E Marzetti
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - K H Pitkälä
- Clinicum, Department of General Practice, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Tukholmankatu 8 B, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - F Landi
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - R Calvani
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Jansson A, Pitkälä KH. Editorial: Circle of Friends, an Encouraging Intervention for Alleviating Loneliness. J Nutr Health Aging 2021; 25:714-715. [PMID: 34179921 PMCID: PMC7936578 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-021-1615-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Jansson
- Anu Jansson, University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Helsinki University Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Helsinki, Finland,
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7
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Aalto UL, Finne-Soveri H, Kautiainen H, Öhman H, Roitto HM, Pitkälä KH. Relationship between Anticholinergic Burden and Health-Related Quality of Life among Residents in Long-Term Care. J Nutr Health Aging 2021; 25:224-229. [PMID: 33491038 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-020-1493-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Anticholinergic burden defined by the Anticholinergic Risk Scale (ARS) has been associated with cognitive and functional decline. Associations with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) have been scarcely studied. The aim of this study was to examine the association between anticholinergic burden and HRQoL among older people living in long-term care. Further, we investigated whether there is an interaction between ARS score and HRQoL in certain underlying conditions. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS Cross-sectional study in 2017. Participants were older people residing in long-term care facilities (N=2474) in Helsinki. MEASUREMENTS Data on anticholinergic burden was assessed by ARS score, nutritional status by Mini Nutritional Assessment, and HRQoL by the 15D instrument. RESULTS Of the participants, 54% regularly used ARS-defined drugs, and 22% had ARS scores ≥2. Higher ARS scores were associated with better cognition, functioning, nutritional status and higher HRQoL. When viewing participants separately according to a diagnosis of dementia, nutritional status or level of dependency, HRQoL was lower among those having dementia, worse nutritional status, or being dependent on another person's help (adjusted for age, sex, comorbidities). Significant differences within the groups according to ARS score were no longer observed. However, interactions between ARS score and dementia and dependency emerged. CONCLUSION In primary analysis there was an association between ARS score and HRQoL. However, this relationship disappeared after stratification by dementia, nutritional status and dependency. The reasons behind the interaction concerning dementia or dependency remain unclear and warrant further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- U L Aalto
- Ulla L. Aalto, MD; Dept of Social Services and Health Care, Helsinki Hospital, Home-care Services, PO BOX 6540, FI-00099 City of Helsinki, Finland, e-mail:
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8
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Jansson AH, Savikko N, Kautiainen H, Roitto HM, Pitkälä KH. Changes in prevalence of loneliness over time in institutional settings, and associated factors. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2020; 89:104043. [PMID: 32442846 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2020.104043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to examine changes in the prevalence of loneliness over time from 2011 to 2017 in long-term care facilities; and its related factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS Repeated cross-sectional studies exploring loneliness and its associated factors among residents in long-term care facilities were conducted in Helsinki, Finland in 2011 (N = 4966) and 2017 (N = 3767). Residents in temporary respite care or with severe cognitive impairment, and those unable or refusing to respond to the loneliness item were excluded. The total number of participants in this analysis was 1563 in 2011, and 1367 in 2017. In both samples, we used the same loneliness measurement by asking "Do you suffer from loneliness?" (never/sometimes/often or always). When comparing the samples in order to reduce the effect of confounding between them, we used propensity score matching. A multivariable logistic regression model explored the relationship between various characteristics and loneliness. RESULTS Loneliness showed no change in prevalence over time: propensity score-adjusted loneliness was 36 % in 2011 and 2017. In the multivariate logistic regression model, feeling depressed was the only independent characteristic associated with loneliness. Of the respondents who did not feel depressed, 24 % suffered from loneliness at least sometimes. Among the respondents who felt depressed, the respective figure was 55 %. CONCLUSION Loneliness is common in institutional settings. It remained stable, and not decreased over time. Because loneliness impairs the well-being, quality of life and health of residents, it needs to be addressed. Screening loneliness and developing interventions to alleviate it, is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- A H Jansson
- Department of General Practice and Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Unit of Primary Health Care, PO Box 20, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - N Savikko
- Department of General Practice and Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Unit of Primary Health Care, PO Box 20, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; City of Espoo, Asemakuja 2 A, FI-02070, Espoo, Finland.
| | - H Kautiainen
- Department of General Practice and Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Unit of Primary Health Care, PO Box 20, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; Unit of Primary Health Care, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - H-M Roitto
- Department of General Practice and Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Unit of Primary Health Care, PO Box 20, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Social Services and Health Care, Helsinki Hospital, Helsinki Hospital Geriatric Clinic, PO Box 6600, FI-00099, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - K H Pitkälä
- Department of General Practice and Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Unit of Primary Health Care, PO Box 20, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; Unit of Primary Health Care, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
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9
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Salminen KS, Suominen MH, Kautiainen H, Pitkälä KH. Associations between Nutritional Status, Frailty and Health-Related Quality of Life among Older Long-Term Care Residents in Helsinki. J Nutr Health Aging 2020; 24:319-324. [PMID: 32115614 PMCID: PMC7064461 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-019-1320-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to examine how nutritional status modifies the association between frailty and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among older nursing home residents. We also investigated how residents' energy intake is linked to frailty score. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS A total of 486 older (> 65 years of age) nursing home residents living in Helsinki, Finland were included to this cross-sectional study. METHODS We collected data on the residents' background information, HRQoL by 15D, nutritional status by Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), frailty status (Fried's phenotype criteria; pre-frail: 1-2 criteria and frail: 3-5) and energy intake (one- or two-day food records). RESULTS The frail residents were more often malnourished and had lower HRQoL than those in the prefrail group. Energy and protein intakes were significantly lower among frail women than prefrail women. Energy intake was linearly associated with frailty points. When residents in the frail and prefrail groups were divided according to their nutritional status, both nutritional status and frailty were associated with HRQoL, but there was no interaction. CONCLUSIONS Both nutritional status and frailty were associated with HRQoL, and lower energy intake indicated a higher frailty score. An adequate energy intake may promote residents' HRQoL and prevent frailty in long-term care.
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Affiliation(s)
- K S Salminen
- K.S. Salminen, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Finland. POB 20, FIN-00014 University of Helsinki, Finland.
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10
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Björkman M, Jyväkorpi SK, Strandberg TE, Pitkälä KH, Tilvis RS. Sarcopenia Indicators as Predictors of Functional Decline and Need for Care among Older People. J Nutr Health Aging 2019; 23:916-922. [PMID: 31781719 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-019-1280-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sarcopenia is associated with poor health outcomes. We examined the relative roles of muscle mass, strength, physical performance and obesity as health predictors among older sarcopenic people. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS This prospective study examined community-dwelling people aged 75+ (N=262). SETTING Porvoo Sarcopenia and Nutrition Trial. MEASUREMENTS We collected demographic data and medical history by postal questionnaire including RAND-36 at baseline and at four years and measured BMI, Short Physical Performace Battery (SPPB), hand-grip strength, cognition and two surrogate measures of muscle mass; the Single Frequency Skeletal Muscle Index (SF-SMI) and the Calf Intracellular Resistance Skeletal Muscle Index (CRi-SMI). RESULTS Adjusted for age and gender, independent outdoors mobility was predicted positively by baseline physical functioning scores in RAND-36 (p<0.001), the SPPB (p<0.001), the two-minute step test (p<0.001), and grip strength (p=0.023), as well as CRi-SMI (p<0.001). However, the prediction was negative in BMI (p<0.001) and the Charlson co-morbidity Index (p= 0.004). Similar associations were found when the physical component RAND-36 was used as an outcome measure. The use of home care was predicted by high co-morbidity (p=0.057) and low scores in RAND-36 (p<0.001), SPPB (p<0.001) and the two-minute step test (p<0.001), and low CRi-SMI (p<0.001). CRi-SF was a more consistent predictor than SF-SMI, which was partly masked by BMI. Controlled for age, gender and comorbidity, a 10% difference in CRi-SMI was associated with a 4% higher probability (p=0.019) of independently living at home, whereas the respective figures for SF-SMI and BMI were -18% (p=0.098) and -14% (p=0.088). CONCLUSIONS In contrast to SF-SMI, high CRi-SMI appeared to indicate good prognosis and less need of care, independently of BMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Björkman
- Satu Jyväkorpi, Tukholmankatu 8, department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, Helsinki, Finland, , Tel: +358 50 4920 970
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11
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this article is to describe the current status of geriatrics and position of geriatricians in 22 countries of three continents, and to portray their attitudes towards and resources allocated to geriatrics. METHODS An electronic survey was delivered to a convenience sample of 22 geriatricians in leading positions of their countries. RESULTS The time required in post graduation specialist training to become a geriatrician varied from one year (subspecialty in the USA) to six years (independent specialty in Belgium). The number in the population aged 80+ per geriatrician varied from 450 (Austria) to 25,000 (Turkey). Of respondents, 55% reported that geriatrics is not a popular specialty in their country. Acute geriatric wards, rehabilitation and outpatient clinics were the most common working places for geriatricians. Nearly half of the respondents had an opinion that older patients who were acutely ill, were receiving subacute rehabilitation or had dementia should be cared for by geriatricians whereas half of the respondents would place geriatricians also in charge of nursing home and orthogeriatric patients. The biggest problems affecting older people's clinical care in their countries were: lack of geriatric knowledge, lack of geriatricians, and attitudes towards older people. Half of respondents thought that older people's health promotion and comprehensive geriatric assessment were not well implemented in their countries, although a majority felt that they could promote good geriatric care in their present position as a geriatrician. CONCLUSION The position of geriatric, geriatricians' training and contents of work has wide international variety.
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Affiliation(s)
- K H Pitkälä
- Kaisu Pitkälä, Faculty of Medicine, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, PO BOX 20, 00014 University of Helsinki, Finland,
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12
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Jyväkorpi SK, Urtamo A, Pitkälä KH, Strandberg TE. Nutrition, Daily Walking and Resilience Are Associated with Physical Function in the Oldest Old Men. J Nutr Health Aging 2018; 22:1176-1182. [PMID: 30498823 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-018-1136-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maintaining good physical functioning in old age is of utmost importance for healthy and active aging. We examined physical function and associated factors in the oldest-old men. SUBJECTS AND METHODS The participants of this cross sectional analysis of a longitudinal study were the oldest old men( n=394, mean age 88 years, range 82-97 years) from the Helsinki Business Men cohort who responded to a postal health and nutrition survey in 2016. Physical function was defined using the respective subscale (Physical Function, PF) in the RAND-36 health-related quality of life (HRQoL) instrument. Resilience was measured with validated Finnish version of Resilience scale. Diet quality was assessed using Mediterranean diet adherence score (MeDi) and Diet quality index (DQI) which is designed to show adherence to Finnish dietary recommendations. Food and dietary intakes were retrieved using 3-day food records (obtained from a sub-group of the respondents). The participants were divided into quartiles corresponding to their PF scores and health and nutrition indicators were calculated into these PF quartiles. Furthermore, a linear regression model was used to determine factors associated with PF. RESULTS PF quartiles were positively associated with lower age, daily walking habit, cognition, diet quality, resilience, alcohol use and negatively associated with blood glucose levels, weight loss, body weight (BW) and falls. Polyunsaturated to saturated fat ratio and berry intake were also associated with PF. In a linear regression model PF was positively associated (p < .001, adjusted R2 = .560) with MeDi, cognition, resilience, vitality (RAND-36), and negatively with age and BW. CONCLUSION MeDi, exercise, resilience, cognition, use of alcohol, fat quality and lower age were positively associated with PF in the oldest-old men. Weight loss, falls and interestingly BW were negatively associated with PF.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Jyväkorpi
- Satu Jyväkorpi, Tukholmankatu 8 B, 00014 University of Helsinki, Finland, Tel: +358 50 4920970,
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13
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Westerinen H, Kaski M, Virta LJ, Kautiainen H, Pitkälä KH, Iivanainen M. The nationwide register-based prevalence of intellectual disability during childhood and adolescence. J Intellect Disabil Res 2017; 61:802-809. [PMID: 28090701 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many studies have evaluated the prevalence of intellectual disability (ID) by focusing on different ages during childhood and adolescence. Although the prevalence of ID is higher in older age groups, how cumulative prevalence increases, and what level it reaches before adulthood, remains unclear. METHOD We used Care Register for Health Care to retrieve information on individuals born in 1996-2007 with any of the inclusion diagnoses of ID (F7 group and/or aetiological diagnoses) for the period 1996 to 2013. The cumulative prevalence was calculated as percentages for every age based on Finnish population data. RESULTS The registration of new diagnoses of ID continued steadily throughout the developmental years. The cumulative prevalence reached 1.19% by age 17.5 among those born in 1996. Later-born age groups appeared to receive their first ID diagnoses earlier in childhood. Those born in 1999 reached a cumulative prevalence of 1.21% already by age 14.5. Of all those with ID, 67% had an F7 diagnosis only, 42% had an aetiological diagnosis only and 9% had both diagnoses. CONCLUSIONS Cumulative prevalence of ID by year, until the age of 18, will provide a better estimate and understanding of the prevalence of ID than a point prevalence at any one point during the developmental years.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Westerinen
- Department of Child Psychiatry, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Kaski
- Rinnekoti Research Centre, Espoo, Finland
| | - L J Virta
- Group for Research on Health Security, Social Insurance Institution, Turku, Finland
| | - H Kautiainen
- Unit of Primary Health Care, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Helsinki, Finland, and University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - K H Pitkälä
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Iivanainen
- Rinnekoti Research Centre, Espoo, Finland
- Department of Child Neurology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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14
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Jyväkorpi SK, Pitkälä KH, Puranen TM, Björkman MP, Kautiainen H, Strandberg TE, Soini HH, Suominen MH. High proportions of older people with normal nutritional status have poor protein intake and low diet quality. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2016; 67:40-5. [PMID: 27415184 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2016.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) is a well-validated instrument examining the nutritional status of older people. The aim of this study was to examine how older people's energy and nutrient intakes are associated with the MNA and to determine how sensitive and specific MNA is in identifying those having low energy and protein intakes. MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross-sectional study combined data from five nutritional studies (N=900): both home-dwelling and institutionalized older people without and with disabilities. Their nutritional status was assessed with MNA, and nutrient intakes were retrieved from 1 to 3day food diaries. Nutrient intakes were divided according to MNA status (normal nutritional status, at-risk of malnutrition, malnourished). Sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios of MNA of various cut-off points were tested with recommended protein and energy intakes. ROC curves was constructed. RESULTS Energy, protein and most nutrient intakes showed logical linear trends according to MNA classes. However, more than three-fourths of the participants with MNA>23.5 had lower than recommended protein intakes. Sensitivity of MNA ranged from 0.32 to 0.82 for recommended energy (F:1570kcal/d/M:2070kcal/d) and protein intakes (1.0g/kg BW or 1.2g/kgBW) cut-off points, and specificity from 0.75 to 0.25, respectively. AUC values were low (0.52-0.53). CONCLUSIONS MNA status was consistently associated with nutrient intakes and diet quality. However, a high proportion of older people even with normal nutritional status had poor energy and protein intakes. Thus, MNA does not identify all those with poor nutrient intakes who may be at risk of developing malnutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Jyväkorpi
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland.
| | - K H Pitkälä
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland
| | - T M Puranen
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland
| | - M P Björkman
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland
| | - H Kautiainen
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland
| | - T E Strandberg
- University of Helsinki, Department of Medicine, Geriatric Clinic, Helsinki University Central Hospital, and University of Oulu, Institute of Health Sciences/Geriatrics, and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - H H Soini
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland; Helsinki City, Department of Social Services and Health Care, Developmental and Operational Support, Finland
| | - M H Suominen
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland
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15
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Veronese N, Cereda E, Solmi M, Fowler SA, Manzato E, Maggi S, Manu P, Abe E, Hayashi K, Allard JP, Arendt BM, Beck A, Chan M, Audrey YJP, Lin WY, Hsu HS, Lin CC, Diekmann R, Kimyagarov S, Miller M, Cameron ID, Pitkälä KH, Lee J, Woo J, Nakamura K, Smiley D, Umpierrez G, Rondanelli M, Sund-Levander M, Valentini L, Schindler K, Törmä J, Volpato S, Zuliani G, Wong M, Lok K, Kane JM, Sergi G, Correll CU. Inverse relationship between body mass index and mortality in older nursing home residents: a meta-analysis of 19,538 elderly subjects. Obes Rev 2015; 16:1001-15. [PMID: 26252230 DOI: 10.1111/obr.12309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Revised: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Body mass index (BMI) and mortality in old adults from the general population have been related in a U-shaped or J-shaped curve. However, limited information is available for elderly nursing home populations, particularly about specific cause of death. A systematic PubMed/EMBASE/CINAHL/SCOPUS search until 31 May 2014 without language restrictions was conducted. As no published study reported mortality in standard BMI groups (<18.5, 18.5-24.9, 25-29.9, ≥30 kg/m(2)), the most adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) according to a pre-defined list of covariates were obtained from authors and pooled by random-effect model across each BMI category. Out of 342 hits, 20 studies including 19,538 older nursing home residents with 5,223 deaths during a median of 2 years of follow-up were meta-analysed. Compared with normal weight, all-cause mortality HRs were 1.41 (95% CI = 1.26-1.58) for underweight, 0.85 (95% CI = 0.73-0.99) for overweight and 0.74 (95% CI = 0.57-0.96) for obesity. Underweight was a risk factor for higher mortality caused by infections (HR = 1.65 [95% CI = 1.13-2.40]). RR results corroborated primary HR results, with additionally lower infection-related mortality in overweight and obese than in normal-weight individuals. Like in the general population, underweight is a risk factor for mortality in old nursing home residents. However, uniquely, not only overweight but also obesity is protective, which has relevant nutritional goal implications in this population/setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Veronese
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Geriatrics Section, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - E Cereda
- Nutrition and Dietetics Service, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - M Solmi
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - S A Fowler
- Becker Medical Library, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - E Manzato
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Geriatrics Section, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,National Research Council, Institute of Neuroscience, Padova, Italy
| | - S Maggi
- National Research Council, Institute of Neuroscience, Padova, Italy
| | - P Manu
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Psychiatry Research, North Shore - Long Island Jewish Health System, Glen Oaks, New York, USA.,Hofstra North Shore LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, New York, USA.,The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA.,Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - E Abe
- Gunma University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - K Hayashi
- Gunma University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - J P Allard
- Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - B M Arendt
- Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - A Beck
- Research Unit for Nutrition (EFFECT), Herlev University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - M Chan
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore
| | - Y J P Audrey
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore
| | - W-Y Lin
- Department of Family Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - H-S Hsu
- Department of Family Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - C-C Lin
- Department of Family Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - R Diekmann
- Institute for Biomedicine of Aging, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Nürnberg, Germany
| | | | - M Miller
- Nutrition and Dietetics, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - I D Cameron
- Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - K H Pitkälä
- Unit of Primary Health Care, Department of General Practice, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - J Lee
- The S. H. Ho Center for Gerontology and Geriatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - J Woo
- The S. H. Ho Center for Gerontology and Geriatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - K Nakamura
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - D Smiley
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - G Umpierrez
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - M Rondanelli
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Section of Human Nutrition, Endocrinology and Nutrition Unit, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - M Sund-Levander
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Linköping, Linköping, Sweden
| | - L Valentini
- Section of Dietetics, Department of Agriculture and Food Sciences, University of Applied Sciences, Neubrandenburg, Germany
| | - K Schindler
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - J Törmä
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - S Volpato
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - G Zuliani
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - M Wong
- Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - K Lok
- Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - J M Kane
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Psychiatry Research, North Shore - Long Island Jewish Health System, Glen Oaks, New York, USA.,Hofstra North Shore LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, New York, USA.,The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA.,Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - G Sergi
- Department of Medicine - DIMED, Geriatrics Section, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - C U Correll
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Psychiatry Research, North Shore - Long Island Jewish Health System, Glen Oaks, New York, USA.,Hofstra North Shore LIJ School of Medicine, Hempstead, New York, USA.,The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA.,Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
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16
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Jyväkorpi SK, Pitkälä KH, Puranen TM, Björkman MP, Kautiainen H, Strandberg TE, Soini H, Suominen MH. Low protein and micronutrient intakes in heterogeneous older population samples. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2015; 61:464-71. [PMID: 26298429 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2015.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [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: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malnutrition is associated with comorbidities and functional decline among older people. Less is known about nutrient intakes across heterogeneous older populations. OBJECTIVE We examined nutritional status and nutrient intakes in different samples of older people representing broad spectrum of healthy and frail populations. We evaluated adequacy of their energy, protein and micronutrient intakes in comparison to recommendations. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS Cross-sectional study combined five datasets: home-dwelling older people participating in nutrition education and cooking classes (NC) [n=54], participants from Helsinki Businessmen Study [n=68], home-dwelling people with Alzheimer disease (AD) [n=99] and their spousal caregivers (n=97), participants from Porvoo Sarcopenia and Nutrition Trial (n=208), and residents of Helsinki assisted living facilities (ALF) [n=374]. Nutritional status was assessed using Mini Nutritional Assessment and nutrient intakes retrieved from 1 to 3 day food records. RESULTS Those suffering most from mobility limitation and cognitive decline had the poorest nutritional status (p<0.001; adjusted for age, sex, comorbidities). However, low intakes of energy, protein, and micronutrients were observed in high proportion in all groups, inadequate intakes of vitamins D, E, folate, and thiamine being most common. Protein intakes did not differ between the groups, but 77% of all participants had lower than recommended protein intake. In general, the NC group had highest micronutrient intakes and the ALF group the lowest. However, AD females had the lowest energy, protein, and vitamin C intakes. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides a detailed picture of risks related to nutrient intakes in various groups of older people. These findings could be used in planning tailored nutrition interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Jyväkorpi
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland.
| | - K H Pitkälä
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland.
| | - T M Puranen
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland.
| | - M P Björkman
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland.
| | - H Kautiainen
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland.
| | - T E Strandberg
- University of Helsinki, Department of Medicine, Geriatric Clinic, Helsinki University Central Hospital, and University of Oulu, Institute of Health Sciences/Geriatrics, and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland.
| | - H Soini
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland; City of Helsinki, Department of Social Services and Health Care, Developmental and Operational Support, Finland.
| | - M H Suominen
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care, Finland.
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17
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Lindroos E, Saarela RKT, Soini H, Muurinen S, Suominen MH, Pitkälä KH. Caregiver-reported swallowing difficulties, malnutrition, and mortality among older people in assisted living facilities. J Nutr Health Aging 2014; 18:718-22. [PMID: 25226112 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-014-0506-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [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: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to explore the prevalence of swallowing difficulties (SWD) and their associations with nutritional status, eating habits, nutritional care, and mortality among older people in assisted living. DESIGN A cross-sectional study with interviews and nutritional assessments at baseline and 3-year follow-up for mortality. SETTING Assisted living facilities in the Helsinki metropolitan area, Finland. PARTICIPANTS All residents (N=1466) in assisted living facilities. MEASUREMENTS Personal interviews yielded information on demographics, medical history, functional status, SWDs and eating habits. Residents' nutritional status was assessed with the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA). Three-year mortality data were retrieved from central registers. RESULTS SWDs were common; 11.8% of subjects suffered from them. Those with SWDs were older, more often female, and more frequently had Parkinson's disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and chronic/ recurrent infections than those without SWDs. No differences were present between the groups in prevalence of stroke or dementia, but more severe cognitive decline occurred among those with SWDs. According to the MNA, 30.6% of those with SWDs were malnourished (<17 points), whereas the respective figure for those without SWDs was 11.0% (p < .001). Those with SWDs ate more often fluid or puréed food (27.8% vs. 3.8%, p < .001), ate more often little or quite little of their food portion (32.6% vs. 23.5%, p < .010), and consumed less fluids (< 5 cups/day 51.7% vs. 35.6%, p< .001) than those without SWDs. Of those with SWDs, 55.0% died by the end of follow-up, whereas the respective figure for those without SWDs was 41.5%. In logistic regression analysis using age, sex, comorbidities, and MNA as covariates, SWDs continued to predict mortality (OR=1.49, 95% CI=1.04 -2.12). CONCLUSIONS SWDs are common and associated with poor nutrition and risk of death of patients in assisted living facilities. Nurses should be trained to assess SWDs and nutritional problems in order to take optimal care of these residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Lindroos
- Eeva Lindroos, M.Sc, Helsinki Metropolia, University of Applied Sciences, Finland, Mannerheimintie 172, FIN-00300 Helsinki, Finland, tel. +358-50-5695677, E-mail address:
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18
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Savikko N, Pitkälä KH, Laurila JV, Suominen MH, Tilvis RS, Kautiainen H, Strandberg TE. Secular trends in the use of vitamins, minerals and fish-oil products in two cohorts of community-dwelling older people in Helsinki--population-based surveys in 1999 and 2009. J Nutr Health Aging 2014; 18:150-4. [PMID: 24522466 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-013-0381-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine and compare the prevalence of use of vitamins, minerals, and fish-oil products (VMFO) in Finnish community-dwelling older people at two time points over a decade, and to explore the associated factors with the VMFO use. METHODS A postal survey was sent to people aged 75, 80, 85, 90, and 95 years living in Helsinki, Finland in 1999 (N=3219) and in 2009 (N=2247). The response rates were 78% (n=2511) and 73% (n=1637), respectively. The surveys included items on demographic and health related factors, used medication and self-reported supplemental use of vitamins or minerals, and natural products. RESULTS The proportion of respondents using at least one VMFO was 49.8% in 1999 and 66.8% in 2009 (p<0.001). The proportion using vitamin D (RR 4.58, 95% CI 3.89 to 5.40; p<0.001), calcium (RR 2.47, 95% CI 2.18 to 2.80; p<0.001), magnesium (RR 1.47, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.85; p<0.001), and fish-oil/omega3 products (RR 3.66, 95% CI 2.41 to 5.55; <0.001) was higher in 2009 than in 1999, even when adjusted for age, gender, living conditions, education and comorbidities, whereas that of other vitamins and fish-liver-oil products was lower. At both time points the use of VMFO was associated with female gender and higher number of used medications. In 1999, higher education was associated with VMFO-use while age and comorbidities was not. In 2009 higher age and comorbidities was associated with VMFO-use. CONCLUSIONS The use of VMFO is common among community-dwelling older people and it has significantly increased over ten years. The increase was mainly due to the use of vitamin D and calcium. The consumption of other vitamin supplements has decreased. Education was no longer associated with use of VFMO in 2009 where as age and comorbidities were.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Savikko
- Niina Savikko, Add: P.O. Box 20, 00014 University of Helsinki, Tel: +358 50 5371126, Fax: +358 9 191 27536, E-mail:
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19
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Halla-aho SM, Tilvis RS, Strandberg TE, Pitkälä KH. Musculoskeletal pain and its treatment among older home-dwelling people: ten-year changes in two Finnish birth cohorts. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2012; 56:285-9. [PMID: 23022058 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2012.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2012] [Revised: 08/22/2012] [Accepted: 08/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain and the use of analgesics in two random cohorts of home-dwelling older people 10 years apart (1999 (N = 2044) and 2009 (N = 1610)) in Helsinki, Finland, and to explore which patients characteristics are associated with potential undertreatment or overtreatment of pain. In 1999, the prevalence of daily joint pain interfering with functioning was 16.4% and that of back pain 13.9% among 75-85-year-old people, the respective figures being 21.9% and 17.1% in 2009 (p < 0.001). The proportion of those patients suffering from joint pain and using prescribed analgesics for that was 35.5% in 1999 and 41.5% in 2009 (p < 0.001). The corresponding figures for patients suffering from back pain with analgesics were 38.2% and 48.2% (p < 0.001), respectively. In 2009, 66.1% suffered from any musculoskeletal pain and 28.7% of them were prescribed analgesics, the figures being more frequent among women than men. In addition to higher age, female gender, and painful conditions, also psychiatric symptoms and dizziness tended to be independently associated with analgesic prescriptions. Among persons not reporting pain (N = 545) psychiatric symptoms were overrepresented in the group using prescribed analgesics (22.4% vs. 8.1%, p < 0.05). In conclusion, musculoskeletal pain is still clearly undertreated, but the coverage has increased during 10 years. In addition to pain, several patient characteristics, functioning and psychiatric symptoms, especially, were associated with analgesic prescriptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Halla-aho
- Helsinki University Central Hospital, Unit of Primary Health Care and University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice, Finland
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Kuikka L, Nevalainen MK, Sjöberg L, Salokekkilä P, Karppinen H, Torppa M, Liira H, Eriksson J, Pitkälä KH. The perceptions of a GP's work among fifth-year medical students in Helsinki, Finland. Scand J Prim Health Care 2012; 30:121-6. [PMID: 22339369 PMCID: PMC3378002 DOI: 10.3109/02813432.2012.654194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore medical students' potential interest in family medicine in the future and their perceptions of a GP's work. DESIGN A cross-sectional survey in 2008-2010. SETTING AND SUBJECTS Fifth-year medical students prior to their main course in General Practice at the University of Helsinki. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The students' opinions regarding the GP's work and their perceptions of the main aims of a GP's work. RESULTS 309/359 medical students (mean age 25.7 years, 64% females) responded to the survey. Among the students, 76% considered the most attractive feature in the GP's work to be that it is versatile and challenging. The least attractive features included: too hasty, pressing work, too lonely work, and too many non-medical problems. The majority of the students considered the main aim of a GP's work as to identify serious diseases/disorders in order to refer those patients for specialized care (82%). Treatment of chronic diseases is an important responsibility of a GP's work according to 63% of the students. Only 38% considered health promotion to be an important aim. CONCLUSIONS Medical students may have perceptions of the GP's work that influence their career choices to specialize in other fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Kuikka
- University of Helsinki, Department of General Practice, Helsinki, Finland.
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Luukkanen MJ, Uusvaara J, Laurila JV, Strandberg TE, Raivio MM, Tilvis RS, Pitkälä KH. Anticholinergic drugs and their effects on delirium and mortality in the elderly. Dement Geriatr Cogn Dis Extra 2011; 1:43-50. [PMID: 22163232 PMCID: PMC3199880 DOI: 10.1159/000322883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim To investigate the use of drugs with anticholinergic properties (DAPs) and their associations with delirium and mortality among elderly patients with comorbidities. Methods 425 patients (≥70 years of age) in geriatric wards and nursing homes were assessed. The use of DAPs was retrieved from their medical records. Delirium was diagnosed according to the DSM-IV criteria. Results Of the 341 patients (80.2%) treated with multiple DAPs (≥2), 92 patients (27.0%) suffered from delirium, whereas 14 of 84 patients (16.7%) without DAP treatment had delirium (p = 0.050). In a logistic regression analysis with age, gender, and Charlson Comorbidity Index as covariates, DAP treatment did not predict delirium (odds ratio 1.67, 95% confidence interval 0.87–3.21). The 2-year mortality was 49.3% (n = 168) in DAP users and 35.7% (n = 30) in non-users, respectively (p = 0.026). In the Cox proportional hazard model adjusted for age, gender, and comorbidity, DAPs did not predict mortality (hazard ratio 1.12, 95% confidence interval 0.75–1.68). Conclusion The use of DAPs is very frequent among frail inpatients with comorbidities, but their use has no independent prognostic significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Luukkanen
- Unit of General Practice, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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Raivio MM, Mäki-Petäjä-Leinonen AP, Laakkonen ML, Tilvis RS, Pitkälä KH. The use of legal guardians and financial powers of attorney among home-dwellers with Alzheimer's disease living with their spousal caregivers. J Med Ethics 2008; 34:882-886. [PMID: 19043115 DOI: 10.1136/jme.2008.025015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
We conducted a cross-sectional survey of a random sample of 1943 spouses of home-dwellers with Alzheimer's disease (AD) to examine the prevalence of court-appointed guardians or financial powers of attorney for persons with AD, related factors and the need for information about these issues among caregiving families. The questionnaire consisted questions on variables of demographic characteristics, disability, symptoms and care needs of the person with dementia, the strain of caregiving, the use of court-appointed legal guardians or powers of attorney, as well as discussions about these issues -- and the need for them -- with a doctor. The response rate was 77% and the mean ages of those with AD and caregivers were 80.2 and 78.2 years, respectively. The use of legal guardians was rare (4.3%), while the use of financial powers of attorney was more common (37.8%). Only 9.9% of the couples had discussed these issues with their doctor, whereas 47.9% expressed a need for it. The factors associated with the use of these legal arrangements were related to the severity of dementia, including experiencing dementia symptoms for more than 3 years, poor functioning, incontinence and behavioural symptoms. There is a clear need for information on medico-legal issues related to dementia among caregivers of AD patients. If held soon after the diagnosis, such discussions could support the autonomy of these persons in spite of AD and enable them to plan for the future as they wish.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Raivio
- Memory Research and Treatment Centers Finland, Medical Center Hemo, Lahti, Finland.
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Andrieu S, Barberger-Gateau P, Raffaitin C, Berr C, Tzourio C, Dartigues JF, Gin H, Fitten LJ, Ortiz F, Fairbanks L, Bartzokis G, Lu P, Ringman J, Heyn PC, Locher JL, Salvà A, Andrieu S, Fernández E, Vellas B, van de Rest O, Geleijnse JM, Kok FJ, van Staveren WA, Beekman ATF, Hoefnagels WHL, de Groot CPGM, Angevaren M, Aufdemkampe G, Verhaar HJJ, Aleman A, Vannees L, Arkin S, Florez H, Gerstein H, Sheridan P, Bosch J, Goldberg R, Kaspar KM, Drawert SM, Marcus RL, Kidde J, Dibble L, Addison O, LaStayo PC, Scarmeas N, Stern Y, Schupf N, Luchsinger JA, Sharkey JR, Laditka JN, Laditka SB, Liu R, Hochhalter A, Robare JF, Türner N, Judge M, Foster TC, Erdos B, Cudykier I, Scarpace PJ, Weiss LA, Bergstrom J, Kritz-Silverstein D, Barrett-Connor E, Yurko-Mauro K, Nelson E, Quinn J, Sattler FR, Castaneda-Sceppa C, Binder EF, Schroeder ET, Wang Y, Bhasin S, Kawakubo M, Stewart Y, Hahn C, Colletti P, Roubenoff R, Yarasheski KE, Azen SP, Aoki Y, Yamamoto T, Otuka T, Blanc-Bisson C, Bourdel-Marchasson I, Bocock MA, Keller HH, Bowman G, Baxter J, Oken B, Frei B, Traber M, Leonard S, Kaye J, Shannon J, Quinn J, Carlsson M, Gustafson Y, Eriksson S, Littbrand H, Håglin L, Danthiir V, Wilson C, Nettelbeck T, Burns N, Wittert G, Noakes M, Clifton P, DiMaria-Ghalili RA, Grieger JA, Nowson CA, Wattanapenpaiboon NT, Holstein J, Robinson C, Hartmann C, Rueb S, Heffel L, Dintaman S, Reynolds J, Fleming L, Crull M, Goldey J, Serper LL, Hubbard R, Westengard J, Horning M, Ishige Y, Aoki Y, Keller HH, Keller HH, LaStayo PC, Marcus RL, Smith S, Kidde J, Dibble L, Butler C, Hill M, LaStayo PC, Marcus RL, Dibble L, Kidde J, Peters C, Meier W, Laughlin GA, Kritz-Silverstein D, von Muhlen D, Barrett-Connor E, Olariu L, Petcu M, Tulcan C, Pup M, Otilingam P, Gate M, Pasinetti GM, Ray B, Chauhan NB, Bailey JA, Lahiri DK, Shatenstein B, Kergoat MJ, Reid I, Chicoine ME, Vaz L, Stewart R, Sabbah W, Tsakos G, D’Aiuto F, Watt RG, Sturman M, Kelly J, Fleischman D, Leurgans S, Bennett D, Morris MC, Suominen MH, Muurinen S, Soini H, Pitkälä KH, Yamamoto T, Fujinoki C, Aoki Y. 3rd IANA (International Academy on Nutrition and Aging) Meeting Nutrition, Exercise & Alzheimer and Clinical Trials on Sarcopenia August 1–2, 2008 Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort 1300 Tuyuna Trail Santa Ana Pueblo, NM USA. J Nutr Health Aging 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/bf02982702] [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: 10/21/2022]
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Laakkonen ML, Raivio MM, Eloniemi-Sulkava U, Saarenheimo M, Pietilä M, Tilvis RS, Pitkälä KH. How do elderly spouse care givers of people with Alzheimer disease experience the disclosure of dementia diagnosis and subsequent care? J Med Ethics 2008; 34:427-430. [PMID: 18511613 DOI: 10.1136/jme.2007.021956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the experiences of spousal care givers of Alzheimer patients to disclosure of dementia diagnosis and subsequent care. METHODS A random sample of 1943 spousal care givers of people receiving medication for Alzheimer disease (AD) was sent a cross-sectional postal survey about their opinions on the disclosure of dementia and follow-up care. A smaller qualitative study (n = 63) included open-ended questions concerning their experiences of the same topics. RESULTS The response rate for the survey was 77%. Of the respondents, 1214 of 1434 acknowledged themselves as their spouse's care giver. The mean age of the care givers was 78.2 years, and that of demented spouses, 80.5 years. Of the care givers, 63% were women. The couples had long-lasting marriages (mean 52 years). Of the care givers, 93% reported that dementia had been disclosed openly to their spouse; 97% also preferred that physicians openly inform the patients of the dementia diagnosis, although 55% of their spouses with AD had developed depressive symptoms after the disclosure. Of the care givers, 71% felt they had received sufficient information about dementia. However, only 50% estimated that their spouses' follow-up care had been well organised. The responses in the qualitative study indicated that many care givers felt grief and anxiety. They also expressed feelings of loneliness and uncertainty about how to deal with follow-up care for dementia. CONCLUSIONS Elderly spousal care givers were quite satisfied with the information given them about dementia. However, the support with regard to the follow-up care of care-giving families failed to meet their needs adequately.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-L Laakkonen
- Helsinki Health Centre, Laakso Hospital, PO Box 6600, FIN-00099 The City of Helsinki, Finland.
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Savikko N, Routasalo P, Tilvis RS, Strandberg TE, Pitkälä KH. Predictors and subjective causes of loneliness in an aged population. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2006; 41:223-33. [PMID: 15908025 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2005.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 332] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2004] [Revised: 02/14/2005] [Accepted: 03/04/2005] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to examine the prevalence and self-reported causes of loneliness among Finnish older population. The data were collected with a postal questionnaire from a random sample of 6,786 elderly people (>or=75 years of age). The response rate was 71.8% from community-dwelling sample. Of the respondents, 39% suffered from loneliness, 5% often or always. Loneliness was more common among rural elderly people than those living in cities. It was associated with advancing age, living alone or in a residential home, widowhood, low level of education and poor income. In addition, poor health status, poor functional status, poor vision and loss of hearing increased the prevalence of loneliness. The most common subjective causes for loneliness were illnesses, death of a spouse and lack of friends. Loneliness seems to derive from societal life changes as well as from natural life events and hardships originating from aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Savikko
- The Central Union for the Welfare of the Aged, Malmin Kauppatie 26, 00700 Helsinki, Finland
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