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Xu S, Jesdale WM, Dubé CE, Nielsen NN, McPhillips EA, Lapane KL. Social engagement and cognitive impairment among nursing home residents: The role of sensory impairment. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2024; 122:105397. [PMID: 38484670 PMCID: PMC11073896 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2024.105397] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Using US national nursing home data, this cross-sectional study sought to evaluate 1) the association between lack of social engagement and level of cognitive impairment; and 2) the extent to which this association differs by hearing and visual impairment. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Our sample included 793,846 nursing home residents aged ≥ 50 years. The Index of Social Engagement was categorized as none/lower (0, 1, 2) or higher levels (3 through 6). Cognitive Performance Scale was grouped as intact/mild (0, 1, 2), moderate (3, 4), or severe (5, 6). Multinomial models provided adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI) between none/lower social engagement and cognitive impairment. We estimated relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI) to quantify the joint effects of social engagement and sensory impairment types. RESULTS Overall, 12.6 % had lower social engagement, 30.3 % had hearing impairment, and 40.3 % had visual impairment. Compared to residents with high social engagement, those with lower social engagement were more likely to have moderate/severe cognitive impairment (aORmoderate = 2.21, 95 % CI 2.17-2.26; aORsevere = 6.49, 95 % CI 6.24-6.74). The impact of low social engagement on cognitive impairment was more profound among residents with hearing impairment and/or visual impairment (RERIhearing = 3.89, 95 % CI 3.62-4.17; RERIvisual = 25.2, 95 % CI 23.9-26.6)). DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Residents with lower social engagement had higher levels of cognitive impairment. Residents with sensory impairments are potentially more susceptible to the negative impact of lower levels of social engagement on level of cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Xu
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - William M Jesdale
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Catherine E Dubé
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Natalia N Nielsen
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emily A McPhillips
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kate L Lapane
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.
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Jiang ST, Lian SY, Sun YH, Pan MB, Wang B, Wang H, Hua J, Wang YC, Wang QL, Dong YF. The oxytocin receptor is essential for the protective effect of pair housing on post-stroke depression in mice. Exp Gerontol 2024; 190:112432. [PMID: 38614224 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2024.112432] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
The beneficial effect of social interaction in mitigating the incidence of post-stroke depression (PSD) and ameliorating depressive symptoms has been consistently demonstrated through preclinical and clinical studies. However, the underlying relationship with oxytocin requires further investigation. In light of this, the present study aimed to explore the protective effect of pair housing on the development of PSD and the potential relationship with oxytocin receptors. The PSD model was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 50 min, followed by 4-week isolated housing and restrained stress. Subsequently, each mouse in the pair-housing group (PH) was pair-housed with an isosexual healthy partner. Another group was continuously administrated fluoxetine (10 mg/Kg, i.p, once a day) for 3 weeks. To elucidate the potential role of oxytocin, we subjected pair-housed PSD mice to treatment with an oxytocin receptor (OXTR) antagonist (L368,889) (5 mg/Kg, i.p, once a day) for 3 weeks. At 31 to 32 days after MCAO, anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors were assessed using sucrose consumption, forced swim test, and tail-suspension test. The results showed that pair housing significantly improved post-stroke depression to an extent comparable to that of fluoxetine treatment. Furthermore, pair housing significantly decreased corticosterone in serum, increasing OXT mRNA expression in the hypothalamus. Treatment with L368,889 essentially reversed the effect of pair housing, with no discernible sex differences apart from changes in body weight. Pair housing increased hippocampal serotonin (5-HT), but treatment with L368,889 had no significant impact. Additionally, pair housing effectively reduced the number of reactive astrocytes and increased Nissl's body in the cortex and hippocampal CA3 regions. Correspondingly, treatment with L368,889 significantly reversed the changes in the Nissl's body and reactive astrocytes. Moreover, pair housing downregulated mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the cortex caused by PSD, which was also reversed by treatment with L368,889. In conclusion, pair housing protects against the development of PSD depending on OXT and OXTR in the brain, with no significant divergence based on sex. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential of social interaction and oxytocin as therapeutic targets for PSD. Further research into the underlying mechanisms of these effects may contribute to the development of novel treatments for PSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Ting Jiang
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Shu-Ying Lian
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yao-Huan Sun
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Mei-Bo Pan
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jun Hua
- Department of Neurology & Psychology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yi-Chen Wang
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Qiu-Ling Wang
- Department of Medical Care, School of Nursing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Yin-Feng Dong
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
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Trajkovski M, Perez D, Tobias S, Massey WV. "And I still remember it to this day": A qualitative exploration of retrospective memories of school-based recess. Public Health Pract (Oxf) 2024; 7:100480. [PMID: 38455970 PMCID: PMC10918564 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2024.100480] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Previous research has shown the most common memory of physical education (PE) was embarrassment, and that childhood memories of PE relate to physical activity (PA) attitude, intention, and sedentary behavior in adulthood [13]. Recess memories may have a similar effect on adult attitudes towards PA, given that recess is a physically active part of the school day, yet is more autonomous and less supervised than PE. Recent literature has supported this, as Massey and colleagues (2021b) reported memories of recess enjoyment were associated with PA enjoyment in adulthood, whereas negative recess memories were associated with social isolation. In an effort to better understand recess memories, and how they may be related to adult behaviors, the purpose of this study was to examine qualitative descriptions of adults' worst recess memories as it related to physical and social health. Study design Mixed methods design; inductive content analysis and analysis of covariance. Methods As part of a larger project, 433 participants between the ages of 19 and 77 (M = 44.91; SD = 15.35) were asked to recall their worst recess memories and the grades in which those memories occurred. Participants identified as predominantly female (52%), White (72%), and college educated (46%). Data analysis was conducted via an inductive content analysis by three research team members. Results The most common negative memories included isolating experiences, physical injuries, victimization, and contextual factors (e.g., weather). Through a series of analysis of covariance, self-reported isolation and self-efficacy of exercise were significantly related to participants with social isolation and physical injury memories respectively. Conclusions This study adds to a growing line of research documenting the importance of recess as a developmentally impactful environment with implications for physical and emotional health.
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Shang Q, Dong YB, Xu L, Yang JH, Li JW, Yu WY, Sun J, Gao X, Huang Y, Zhang XQ. Environmental Enrichment Improves the Recognition Memory in Adult Mice Following Social Isolation via Downregulation of Kv4.2 Potassium Channels. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:3742-3752. [PMID: 38010561 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03750-9] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Recognition memory is a cognitive process that enables us to distinguish familiar objects and situations from new items, which is essential for mammalian survival and adaptation to a changing environment. Social isolation (SI) has been implicated as a detrimental factor for recognition memory. The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) has been shown to carry information concerning the relative familiarity of individual stimuli, and modulating neuronal function in this region may contribute to recognition memory. The present study aimed to investigate the neuronal mechanisms in the mPFC of environmental enrichment (EE) on recognition memory in adult mice following SI. Mice were assigned into three groups: control, SI, and SI + EE groups. Novel location recognition (NLR) and novel object recognition (NOR) tests were performed to evaluate the recognition memory. The levels of Kv4 channels were assessed by qRT-PCR and western blotting. The effects of SI and SI + EE on the excitability of pyramidal neurons in the mPFC were measured using whole-cell recording. We found that SI led to a reduction in the excitability of pyramidal neurons. Specifically, we have identified that the reduction in the firing activity of pyramidal neurons resulted from alterations in the function and expression of Kv4.2 channels. Furthermore, EE regulated Kv4.2 channels, normalized the activity of pyramidal neurons, and restored the behavioral deficits following SI. Thus, the roles of Kv4.2 channels in excitability of pyramidal neurons suggest that the Kv4.2 channels present a promising therapeutic target for recognition memory impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Shang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, China
| | - Yi-Bei Dong
- Department of Pharmacology, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China
| | - Le Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China
| | - Jian-Hong Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, China
| | - Jia-Wen Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China
| | - Wei-Yi Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, China
| | - Yi Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, China
| | - Xiao-Qin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, China.
- Department of Pharmacology, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, China.
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Fernandez CC, Maddock J, Patalay P, Fett AK, Pitman A, Vaughan L, Krenz K. Proximity to high streets, social isolation and social support in British adolescents: A longitudinal analysis of sociospatial influences on social connectedness using geospatial data. Health Place 2024; 88:103260. [PMID: 38735152 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103260] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
High streets have been shown to be central to socio-economic activity, given their diverse residential, leisure, and commercial activities. This study explores the link between adolescent social isolation and proximity to, and land use mix in, high streets. Hypothesising that greater distance from high streets might increase social isolation, measured via social activities, friend contact frequency, and social support, we used multilevel modelling with data from the Millennium Cohort Study. We did not observe a relationship between proximity to high streets and these social isolation indicators, suggesting that high streets may either not significantly influence adolescent social engagement or that young people are willing to travel greater distances.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jane Maddock
- MRC Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing, UCL, London, UK
| | - Praveetha Patalay
- MRC Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing, UCL, London, UK; Centre for Longitudinal Studies, Social Research Institute, UCL, London, UK
| | - Anne-Kathrin Fett
- Department of Psychology, City, University of London, London, UK; Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, London, UK
| | - Alexandra Pitman
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Laura Vaughan
- The Space Syntax Lab, Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL, London, UK
| | - Kimon Krenz
- The Space Syntax Lab, Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL, London, UK
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Botha F, Bower M. Predictors of male loneliness across life stages: an Australian study of longitudinal data. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1285. [PMID: 38730388 PMCID: PMC11088127 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18770-w] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite growing recognition of loneliness as a global public health concern, research on its occurrence and precipitants among men across different life stages remains limited and inconclusive. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the prevalence and predictors of loneliness among a large, representative data set of Australian adult men. METHODS The study used longitudinal data from waves 2-21 of the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey, including men aged 15-98. Estimating linear fixed effects regressions that account for unobserved time-invariant individual heterogeneity, a single-item measure of loneliness was regressed on a set of selected explanatory variables over different parts of the life course. RESULTS Increased social isolation, romantic partnership dissolution, having a long-term disability, and stronger beliefs that the man, rather than the woman, should be the breadwinner of the household, are associated with greater loneliness. Frequent social connection, having a romantic partner, and high neighbourhood satisfaction are protective against loneliness. The findings also reveal several differences in the predictors of loneliness over the life course. Job security is especially important for younger men, whereas for older men volunteering and less conservative gender role attitudes are important factors that can decrease loneliness. CONCLUSIONS The results emphasise the need to consider age-specific factors and societal expectations in understanding and addressing loneliness amongst men. Additionally, the findings underscore the importance of raising awareness about the impact of societal norms and expectations on men's mental health. The results offer valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare providers, and researchers to develop effective strategies and support systems to combat loneliness and promote well-being among men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferdi Botha
- Melbourne Institute: Applied Economic & Social Research, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families Over the Life Course, Queensland, Australia
| | - Marlee Bower
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia.
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Hajek A, König HH. Perceived ageism and psychosocial outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Arch Public Health 2024; 82:69. [PMID: 38730448 PMCID: PMC11088088 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-024-01297-2] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In light of the existing knowledge gap in this research area (particularly based on representative samples and research conducted during the pandemic), the objective of this study was to explore the association between perceived ageism and psychosocial outcomes (i.e., in terms of life satisfaction, loneliness, social isolation, aging satisfaction and depressive symptoms) among middle-aged and older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic based on nationally representative data. METHODS We used data from the nationally representative German Ageing Survey, which covers community-dwelling middle-aged and older individuals aged 40 years or over. Specifically, wave 7 of the German Ageing Survey (conducted from November 2020 to March 2021) was analyzed, consisting of a sample of 4,167 individuals with an average age of 68.7 years (SD: 10.1 years; ranging from 46 to 98 years). Established instruments were employed to measure psychosocial outcomes. RESULTS Regressions showed that the presence of perceived ageism was significantly associated with unfavorable psychometric outcomes (i.e., higher loneliness: β = 0.29, p < 0.001; higher perceived social isolation: β = 0.32, p < 0.001; more depressive symptoms: β = 2.68, p < 0.001; lower life satisfaction: β=-0.28, p < 0.001; higher negative affect: β = 0.21, p < 0.001; lower aging satisfaction: β=-0.19, p < 0.001), except for positive affect (β=-0.06, p = 0.10). Stratified by age group (i.e., individuals 40 to 64 years; individuals aged 65 years and over, see Tables 3 and 4), comparable results were obtained in terms of significance. CONCLUSIONS Perceived ageism was associated with unfavorable psychosocial outcomes. This knowledge can help reduce vulnerability to negative psychosocial factors in people in the middle and later years of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
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Marziliano A, Byakova A, Patel P, Herman SW, Diefenbach MA. The Assessment of Social Isolation and Loneliness in Cancer Patients and Survivors in the Pre-COVID-19 Period: A Systematic Review. Int J Behav Med 2024:10.1007/s12529-024-10286-2. [PMID: 38730198 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-024-10286-2] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the context of cancer research, identifying social isolation and loneliness is a priority given how both exacerbate poor outcomes and lead to increased mortality in oncological populations. The purpose of this systematic review is to identify all quantitative instruments that have been used to assess either social isolation or loneliness in patients previously or currently diagnosed with cancer in the pre-COVID-19 period. METHOD PubMed (Web), Scopus, CINAHL, and PsycINFO were searched on August 22, 2019. All databases were searched from inception with no filters applied. The search strategies included terms that captured the following concepts: instruments/tools, social isolation or loneliness, and cancer. RESULTS A total of 289 titles/abstracts were returned. Upon review, 114 titles/abstracts were deemed to be potentially eligible and the full text was retrieved. Of the 114 full texts, 69 articles met inclusion criteria and comprised the final sample. Publications span years 1980 through 2019, with the majority (71%) occurring in the last decade prior to this review, between 2009 and 2019. Average age of the study samples, with few exceptions, was often over 50 years old. Many studies used all-female samples, while only one study used an all-male sample. The most common cancer diagnosis of participants was breast cancer. The most common measure was the UCLA Loneliness Scale, used in 22 studies. Most measures we identified were used only once, and 11 measures were used 2-3 times. When the information was given, response ranges were always Likert-type scales most often ranging from 1-4 or 1-5, and sometimes from 1-10 possible response options. In terms of psychometrics, test-retest reliability and validity were rarely reported; by contrast, internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) was reported more than half of the time (60.9%). CONCLUSION When selecting a measure to assess loneliness in cancer populations, the UCLA Loneliness Scale is both psychometrically strong and versatile across patients with different cancers, ages, and racial backgrounds. When selecting a measure to assess social isolation in cancer populations, both the PROMIS-SF V 2.0 social isolation and the Berkman-Syme Network Index are brief and have been used in patients with non-White racial backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Marziliano
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Institute of Health System Science, Northwell Health, Manhasset, USA.
| | - Alla Byakova
- Hospice and Palliative Care, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, USA
| | - Priya Patel
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Institute of Health System Science, Northwell Health, Manhasset, USA
| | - Saori W Herman
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hofstra University, Hempstead, USA
| | - Michael A Diefenbach
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Institute of Health System Science, Northwell Health, Manhasset, USA
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hofstra University, Hempstead, USA
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Usama SM, Kothari YL, Karthikeyan A, Khan SA, Sarraf M, Nagaraja V. Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Cardiovascular Mortality: The Role of Health Care System Interventions. Curr Cardiol Rep 2024:10.1007/s11886-024-02066-x. [PMID: 38713361 DOI: 10.1007/s11886-024-02066-x] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The world is proliferating rapidly, with science and technology advancing at an incredible rate. These advances have, however, ushered in an age with a rise in social isolation (SI) and loneliness. SI is an objective term that refers to lacking social contact or support. On the other hand, loneliness is subjective and refers to feeling alone or isolated. These concepts are rapidly gaining prominence mainly due to their negative impact on the physical and psychological health of the population, mainly through behavioural modifications that encompass substance abuse, decreased physical activity and unhealthy food habits, and poor sleep hygiene. This review summarizes the pathophysiology, evaluates the evidence behind impact of SI on cardiovascular mortality, and interventions to overcome SI. RECENT FINDINGS Through proposed mechanisms, such as activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, both SI and loneliness have strong evidence linking them to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 90 prospective cohort studies including 2,205,199 individuals reported that SI was independent predictor of cardiovascular mortality with a point estimate of 1.34 (95% confidence interval:1.25-1.44). The evidence so far is compelling and necessitates urgent action with the implementation of strict policies to tackle this issue. As healthcare professionals, it becomes even more critical to remain vigilant, recognize this insidious pandemic, and take appropriate action.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yash Lalit Kothari
- Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Syed Anjum Khan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System - Southwest Minnesota Region, Mankato, MN, USA
| | - Mohammad Sarraf
- Division of Interventional Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Vinayak Nagaraja
- Division of Interventional Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, 200 1st St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
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Lee RT, Surenkok G, Zayas V. Mitigating the affective and cognitive consequences of social exclusion: an integrative data analysis of seven social disconnection interventions. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1250. [PMID: 38714949 PMCID: PMC11075311 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18365-5] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Being socially excluded has detrimental effects, with prolonged exclusion linked to loneliness and social isolation. Social disconnection interventions that do not require direct support actions (e.g., "how can I help?") offer promise in mitigating the affective and cognitive consequences of social exclusion. We examine how various social disconnection interventions involving friends and unknown peers might mitigate social exclusion by buffering (intervening before) and by promoting recovery (intervening after). METHODS We present an integrative data analysis (IDA) of five studies (N = 664) that systematically exposed participants to exclusion (vs. inclusion) social dynamics. Using a well-validated paradigm, participants had a virtual interaction with two other people. Unbeknownst to participants, the other people's behavior was programmed to either behave inclusively toward the participant or for one to behave exclusively. Critically, our social disconnection interventions experimentally manipulated whether a friend was present (vs. an unknown peer vs. being alone), the nature of interpersonal engagement (having a face-to-face conversation vs. a reminder of an upcoming interaction vs. mere presence), and the timing of the intervention in relation to the social dynamic (before vs. during vs. after). We then assessed participants' in-the-moment affective and cognitive responses, which included mood, feelings of belonging, sense of control, and social comfort. RESULTS Experiencing exclusion (vs. inclusion) led to negative affective and cognitive consequences. However, engaging in a face-to-face conversation with a friend before the exclusion lessened its impact (p < .001). Moreover, a face-to-face conversation with a friend after exclusion, and even a reminder of an upcoming interaction with a friend, sped-up recovery (ps < .001). There was less conclusive evidence that a face-to-face conversation with an unknown peer, or that the mere presence of a friend or unknown peer, conferred protective benefits. CONCLUSIONS The findings provide support for the effectiveness of social disconnection interventions that involve actual (i.e., face-to-face) or symbolic (i.e., reminders) interactions with friends. These interventions target momentary vulnerabilities that arise from social exclusion by addressing negative affect and cognitions before or after they emerge. As such, they offer a promising approach to primary prevention prior to the onset of loneliness and social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randy T Lee
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.
| | - Gizem Surenkok
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Vivian Zayas
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Sutherland J, Herrington I, Makarski J, Tindall J, Hynes M, Kastner M. Evaluation of an online arts-based platform to support the health and well-being of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional survey. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1232. [PMID: 38702646 PMCID: PMC11069133 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18720-6] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to conduct a formative evaluation of the Art Your Service (AYS) arts-based program to determine the program's potential for improving the social and physical well-being of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN, SETTINGS AND PARTICIPANTS An online questionnaire was administered to the AYS members who consented to be invited to participate in the study. Questionnaire items consisted of a Likert scale and open-ended questions delivered using an online platform (SurveyMonkey). Participants provided feedback on their perceptions and experiences of the AYS program, such as its impact on their health and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, the benefits and challenges of participating, and any suggestions for program improvement. OUTCOME MEASURES AND ANALYSIS Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, means with standard deviations), and open-ended questions (qualitative data) were analyzed using content analysis. Outcomes included participant demographics, perceptions about the program, usability (System Usability Scale [SUS]), eHealth literacy (eHealth Literacy Scale), and social isolation (Lubben Social Network Scale; LSNS-6). RESULTS Program participants revealed consistent patterns of their perceptions and experiences about the program, including a high satisfaction rate (95%) and a perceived positive impact on participants' health and well-being. The program sessions were perceived to be a well-organized, convenient, and safe way to engage with one another socially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program usability was also perceived to be high (SUS mean score 86.2). Participants felt a sense of connectedness and had reduced feelings of social isolation. Most participants (75%) reported that the program improved their physical health. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this formative evaluation study identified key strengths and opportunities to improve the Art Your Service arts-based program, which can be used to help enhance the program's functioning and long-term sustainability potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Isabella Herrington
- University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Research and Innovation, North York General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Julie Makarski
- Research and Innovation, North York General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Mary Hynes
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Monika Kastner
- Knowledge Translation and Implementation, Research and Innovation, North York General Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Management, and Evaluation (IHPME), Institute of Health Policy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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12
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Adkins AM, Colby EM, Boden AF, Gotthold JD, Harris RD, Britten RA, Wellman LL, Sanford LD. Effects of social isolation and galactic cosmic radiation on fine motor skills and behavioral performance. Life Sci Space Res (Amst) 2024; 41:74-79. [PMID: 38670655 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2024.01.005] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Future NASA missions will require astronauts to travel farther and spend longer durations in space than ever before. This will also expose astronauts to longer periods of several physical and psychological challenges, including exposure to space radiation (SR) and periods of social isolation (SI), which could have unknown negative effects on physical and mental health. Each also has the potential to negatively impact sleep which can reduce the ability to cope with stressful experiences and lead to sensorimotor, neurocognitive, and physical deficits. The effects of SI and SR on gross motor performance has been shown to vary, and depend on, individual differences in stress resilience and vulnerability based on our established animal model in which stress produces different effects on sleep. In this study, the impact that SI and SR, either alone or together, had on fine motor skill performance (bilateral tactile adhesive removal task (BTAR)) was assessed in male rats. We also examined emotional, exploratory, and other off-task behavioral responses during testing and assessed whether sensorimotor performance and emotion varied with individual differences in resilience and vulnerability. BTAR task performance was differentially impacted by SI and SR, and were further influenced by the stress resilience/vulnerability phenotype of the rats. These findings further demonstrate that identifying individual responses to stressors that can impact sensorimotor ability and behavior necessary to perform mission-related tasks will be of particular importance for astronauts and future missions. Should similar effects occur in humans, there may be considerable inter-individual variability in the impact that inflight stressors have on astronauts and their ability to perform mission-related tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin M Adkins
- Sleep Research Laboratory, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Emily M Colby
- Sleep Research Laboratory, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Alea F Boden
- Sleep Research Laboratory, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Justin D Gotthold
- Sleep Research Laboratory, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Ryan D Harris
- Sleep Research Laboratory, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Richard A Britten
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Radiation Oncology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Laurie L Wellman
- Sleep Research Laboratory, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Larry D Sanford
- Sleep Research Laboratory, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Center for Integrative Neuroscience and Inflammatory Diseases, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA; Pathology and Anatomy, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA.
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Girella A, Di Bartolomeo M, Dainese E, Buzzelli V, Trezza V, D'Addario C. Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase and Cannabinoid Receptor Type 1 Genes Regulation is Modulated by Social Isolation in Rats. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:1278-1290. [PMID: 38368587 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-024-04117-9] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Social isolation is a state of lack of social connections, involving the modulation of different molecular signalling cascades and associated with high risk of mental health issues. To investigate if and how gene expression is modulated by social experience at the central level, we analyzed the effects of 5 weeks of social isolation in rats focusing on endocannabinoid system genes transcription in key brain regions involved in emotional control. We observed selective reduction in mRNA levels for fatty acid amide hydrolase (Faah) and cannabinoid receptor type 1 (Cnr1) genes in the amygdala complex and of Cnr1 in the prefrontal cortex of socially isolated rats when compared to controls, and these changes appear to be partially driven by trimethylation of Lysine 27 and acetylation of Lysine 9 at Histone 3. The alterations of Cnr1 transcriptional regulation result also directly correlated with those of oxytocin receptor gene. We here suggest that to counteract the effects of SI, it is of relevance to restore the endocannabinoid system homeostasis via the use of environmental triggers able to revert those epigenetic mechanisms accounting for the alterations observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Girella
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Martina Di Bartolomeo
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Enrico Dainese
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Viviana Trezza
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology, Metabolism and Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio D'Addario
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Renato Balzarini, 1, 64100, Teramo, Italy.
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Ashrafioun L, Allan NP, Stecker TA. A randomized clinical trial to assess feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effects of telehealth-delivered cognitive-behavioral therapy for perceived social isolation among individuals with opioid use disorders. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 258:111268. [PMID: 38520791 PMCID: PMC11088495 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111268] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to report on feasibility, acceptability, and initial efficacy data cognitive-behavioral therapy for perceived isolation (CBT-PSI) compared to health education among individuals with opioid use disorders (OUD) reporting elevated loneliness. METHODS Participants (n = 125) with OUD reporting elevated loneliness were recruited using online advertising to participate in a telehealth-delivered randomized clinical trial. Participants received either a 6-session CBT-PSI (n = 63) or health education (n = 62). Measures assessing loneliness, quantity of social interactions, perceived social support, substance use, substance use consequences, and treatment engagement among others, were completed at baseline, post-intervention, and 1- and 2-months post-intervention. Participants also reported on treatment acceptability for both conditions. RESULTS Target enrollment was met with loneliness, social disconnectedness measures, and substance use reflecting a clinically severe sample. Retention was high (> 80%) for both conditions. Participants rated both Health Education and CBT-PSI as acceptable, helpful, and useful interventions to address loneliness and opioid use. Loneliness was reduced and quantity of social interactions and perceived social support were increased to the same extent for both conditions and across the follow-up assessments. Opioid use and overall substance use were reduced in both conditions; however, the reductions among participants received CBT-PSI were significantly greater compared to Health Education. CONCLUSIONS This study supports the feasibility and acceptability of CBT-PSI. CBT-PSI findings related to loneliness, substance use, and other social connectedness outcomes are encouraging. Additional testing of CBT-PSI in a fully-powered trial is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisham Ashrafioun
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, 300 Crittenden Boulevard, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; VA Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, VA Finger Lakes Healthcare System, 400 Fort Hill Avenue, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA.
| | - Nicholas P Allan
- VA Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, VA Finger Lakes Healthcare System, 400 Fort Hill Avenue, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA; Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, 370 W 9th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Tracy A Stecker
- VA Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, VA Finger Lakes Healthcare System, 400 Fort Hill Avenue, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA; School of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, 99 Jonathan Lucas Street, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
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15
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Hajek A, Gyasi RM, Kretzler B, König HH. Vision and hearing problems and psychosocial outcomes: longitudinal evidence from the German Ageing Survey. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024; 59:879-886. [PMID: 37980286 PMCID: PMC11087359 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-023-02588-9] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine whether changes in vision and hearing problems are associated with changes in psychosocial outcomes (in terms of depressive symptoms, loneliness, and perceived social isolation). METHODS We used longitudinal data from the nationally representative German Ageing Survey, which covers individuals aged 43 years and over (wave 6 and wave 7, with 7108 observations and mean age of 67.5 years, SD 10.2 years). The 6-item De Jong Gierveld tool was used to quantify loneliness, the Bude and Lantermann tool was used to quantify perceived social isolation, and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (15-item version) was used to quantify depressive symptoms. Self-rated problems reading the newspaper due to vision problems and self-rated difficulties recognizing known people on the street due to vision problems were used to quantify vision problems. In addition, self-rated hearing problems on the telephone and self-rated hearing problems in groups of more than four people were used to quantify hearing problems. RESULTS Adjusting for various confounders, longitudinal regressions showed that the onset of major vision problems referring to difficulties recognizing people one knows on the street was associated with increases in loneliness (β = 0.17, p < .01) and depressive symptoms (β = 1.90, p < 0.05). Moreover, the onset of some vision problems referring to difficulties reading the newspaper was associated with increases in perceived social isolation (β = 0.06, p < 0.01). Additionally, the onset of some hearing problems in groups of more than four people was associated with increases in depressive symptoms (β = 0.43, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Our longitudinal study showed that vision and hearing problems can contribute differently to psychosocial factors. Delaying sensory impairment may result in favorable psychosocial factors in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Razak M Gyasi
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Benedikt Kretzler
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
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16
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Chen Y, Xue H, Ai S, Liu Y, Nie Y, Ai QYH, Zhang J, Liang YY. Trajectories of social isolation and loneliness and the risk of incident type 2 diabetes mellitus across genetic risk score. Diabetes Metab 2024; 50:101526. [PMID: 38458351 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabet.2024.101526] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to investigate the association of social isolation, loneliness, and their trajectory with the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) across genetic risk. METHODS We included 439,337 participants (mean age 56.3 ± 8.1 years) enrolled in the UK Biobank study who were followed up until May 31, 2021. Social isolation and loneliness were self-reported and were further categorized into never, transient, incident, and persistent patterns. RESULTS During a median follow-up of 12.7 years, 15,258 incident T2DM cases were documented. Social isolation (versus no social isolation: hazard ratio (HR) 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.04 [1.00;1.09]) and loneliness (versus no loneliness: 1.26 [1.19;1.34]) were associated with an increased T2DM risk, independent of the genetic risk for T2DM. The interactions existed between social isolation and loneliness (Pinteraction < 0.05); the increased T2DM risk associated with social isolation was only significant among participants without loneliness. In the longitudinal analysis, only persistent social isolation (versus never social isolation: 1.22 [1.02;1.45]) was associated with an increased T2DM risk, whereas incident loneliness (versus never loneliness: 1.95 [1.40;2.71]) and persistent loneliness (2.00 [1.31;3.04]) were associated with higher T2DM risks. CONCLUSION Social isolation and loneliness, especially their persistent pattern, were independently associated with an increased incident T2DM risk, irrespective of an individual's genetic risk. Loneliness modified the association between social isolation and incident T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Chen
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Department of Neurology and National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Huachen Xue
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Sizhi Ai
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Department of Cardiology, Heart Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Weihui, Henan, China
| | - Yaping Liu
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Nie
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qi-Yong H Ai
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jihui Zhang
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yannis Yan Liang
- Center for Sleep and Circadian Medicine, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Institute of Psycho-neuroscience, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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17
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Morikawa M, Harada K, Kurita S, Fujii K, Nishijima C, Kakita D, Shimada H. Association of objectively measured physical activity with incidence disability in older adults with/without social isolation. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2024; 120:105338. [PMID: 38295617 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2024.105338] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate association between objectively measured physical activities with incidence disability in older adults with and without social isolation. METHODS This 5-year longitudinal observational study used a population-based study from a sub-cohort of the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology Study of Geriatric Syndrome. In Japan, Incident disability is defined as a new case of public insurance certification for long-term care. As participants, we enrolled 5,257 community-dwelling older adults aged ≥ 70 years. The Participants on whom incomplete baseline physical activity assessments were performed; who required long-term care; had a history of dementia, Parkinson's disease, stroke, or depression; who lacked independence in basic ADL; who had Mini-Mental State Examination scores; or who had missing measurements; were excluded. Thus, 2,071 participants were included. RESULTS Of the participants, 1,183 non-socially isolated participants had 151 (4.3%) cases of disability, while socially isolated participants had 150 (13%) cases. Cox proportional-hazards regression analysis presented the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) of daily steps and low-intensity and moderate-to-vigorous physical activities-0.62(0.43-0.89), 0.84(0.60-1.18), 0.62(0.43-0.89) in participants with social isolation, and 0.58(0.40-0.85), 0.86(0.60-1.24), 0.70(0.49-1.01) in those with social isolation. CONCLUSIONS Daily steps were significantly associated with a decreased risk of incidence disability, regardless of social isolation. These results suggest the greater importance of daily physical activity than its specific intensity in socially isolated older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Morikawa
- Center for Gerontology and Social Science, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Aichi 474-8511, Japan.
| | - Kenji Harada
- Center for Gerontology and Social Science, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Aichi 474-8511, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kurita
- Center for Gerontology and Social Science, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Aichi 474-8511, Japan
| | - Kazuya Fujii
- Center for Gerontology and Social Science, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Aichi 474-8511, Japan
| | - Chiharu Nishijima
- Center for Gerontology and Social Science, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Aichi 474-8511, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kakita
- Center for Gerontology and Social Science, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Aichi 474-8511, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Shimada
- Center for Gerontology and Social Science, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Aichi 474-8511, Japan
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Htun HL, Teshale AB, Owen AJ, Ryan J, Woods RL, Orchard SG, Hajek A, Lysen T, Shah RC, Chong TTJ, Sheets KM, Joyce J, Murray AM, Freak-Poli R. Social Activities and Risk of Dementia in Community-Dwelling Older People: Gender-Specific Findings From a Prospective Cohort Study. J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2024; 79:gbae050. [PMID: 38567686 PMCID: PMC11025553 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbae050] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examines the gender-specific associations between a wide range of social activities and dementia risk. METHODS A prospective cohort study was conducted involving community-dwelling older Australians (≥70 years) without significant cognitive impairment at enrolment. During the first year of enrolment, we assessed 25 self-reported social activities covering various aspects, including support from relatives and friends, community participation, social interactions with surroundings, and loneliness. Dementia diagnosis followed DSM-IV criteria, adjudicated by an international expert panel. To estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between social activities and dementia, we performed Cox proportional hazards models, adjusting for age, educational attainment, baseline global cognition, and depressive symptoms. RESULTS Among 9,936 participants who completed all social activity questionnaires (median [IQR] age: 73.4 [71.6-77.1] years; 47.4% men), dementia was diagnosed in 3.8% of men (n = 181/4,705) and 2.6% of women (n = 138/5,231) over a median 6.4 years (IQR: 5.3-7.6, range: 0.2-10.1) follow-up. Gender-specific relationships emerged: caregiving for a person with illness/disability in women (HR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.42-0.99), and having ≥9 relatives feeling close to call for help in men (HR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.33-0.96; reference <9 relatives) were associated with reduced dementia risk. Unexpectedly, in women, having ≥5 friends with whom they felt comfortable discussing private matters were associated with a greater dementia risk (HR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.10-2.59; reference ≤2 friends). Imputed models further identified that babysitting/childminding was associated with lower dementia risk in men (HR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.56-0.99). No other social activities showed significant associations with dementia. DISCUSSION This study provides evidence of social activities influencing dementia risk. Further investigations are required to uncover the mechanisms driving these observed relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Htet Lin Htun
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Alice J Owen
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joanne Ryan
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robyn L Woods
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suzanne G Orchard
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thom Lysen
- Independent Researcher, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Raj C Shah
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine and the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Trevor T-J Chong
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kerry M Sheets
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Johanna Joyce
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anne M Murray
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Berman Center for Outcomes and Clinical Research, Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Rosanne Freak-Poli
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Hounkpatin H, Simpson G, Santer M, Farmer A, Dambha-Miller H. Multiple long-term conditions, loneliness and social isolation: A scoping review of recent quantitative studies. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2024; 120:105347. [PMID: 38309103 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2024.105347] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple long-term conditions (MLTC), loneliness and social isolation are common in older adults. Recent studies have explored the association of MLTC with loneliness and social isolation. This scoping review aimed to map this current evidence and identify gaps in the literature. METHODS A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews. Ovid Medline, Embase, CINAHL, The Cochrane Library, PsycInfo, and Bielefeld Academic Search Engine were searched for studies published between January 2020-April 2023. Quantitative studies, published in any language, that assessed the association of MLTC with loneliness and/or social isolation were included. RESULTS 1827 records were identified and screened. Of these, 17 met inclusion criteria. Most studies were cross-sectional and based on older adults. Studies were conducted in Europe, the US, Canada, and low- and middle-income countries. Ten studies focused on the association between MLTC and loneliness, six assessed the association between MLTC and social isolation and one examined associations with both loneliness and social isolation. Most studies reported a significant cross-sectional association of MLTC with loneliness, but there was weaker evidence for a longitudinal association between MLTC and loneliness and an association between MLTC and social isolation. Studies were heterogenous in terms of measures and definitions of loneliness/social isolation and MLTC, confounders adjusted for, and analytical models used, making comparisons difficult. CONCLUSIONS Further population-based longitudinal studies using consistent measures and methodological approaches are needed to improve understanding of the association of MLTC with both loneliness and social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilda Hounkpatin
- Primary Care Research Centre, School of Primary Care Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, UK.
| | - Glenn Simpson
- Primary Care Research Centre, School of Primary Care Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Miriam Santer
- Primary Care Research Centre, School of Primary Care Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Andrew Farmer
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Hajira Dambha-Miller
- Primary Care Research Centre, School of Primary Care Population Sciences and Medical Education, University of Southampton, UK
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20
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Hajek A, Zwar L, Gyasi RM, Kretzler B, König HH. Prevalence and determinants of loneliness among the oldest old living in institutionalized settings : Study findings from a representative survey. Z Gerontol Geriatr 2024; 57:214-219. [PMID: 37266683 PMCID: PMC11078814 DOI: 10.1007/s00391-023-02196-x] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is very limited knowledge regarding the prevalence and determinants of loneliness in oldest old residents of nursing or old age homes. OBJECTIVE To examine the prevalence and determinants of loneliness among the oldest old living in institutionalized settings in Germany. MATERIAL AND METHODS Data were taken from the representative survey on quality of life and subjective well-being of the very old in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW80+) including individuals ≥ 80 years living in North Rhine-Westphalia. The study focused on individuals living in institutionalized settings. Sociodemographic, lifestyle-related, and health-related determinants were included in multiple linear regression models. RESULTS Approximately 56.6% of the individuals were not lonely, 25.7% and 17.8% of the individuals were moderately and severely lonely, respectively. Regression analyses showed that higher loneliness was associated with being married (β = 0.48, p < 0.05), high education (compared to low education, β = 0.46, p < 0.05), having a small social network size (β = -0.02, p < 0.05), having poor self-rated health (β = -0.25, p < 0.05), and more depressive symptoms (β = 0.25, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION A significant proportion of the institutionalized oldest old individuals reported moderate or severe loneliness, which underpins the relevance of this topic. Understanding the determinants of loneliness may help to address institutionalized adults aged 80 years and over at risk of loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Larissa Zwar
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Razak M Gyasi
- Aging and Development Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Benedikt Kretzler
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
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21
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Goldman N, Khanna D, El Asmar ML, Qualter P, El-Osta A. Addressing loneliness and social isolation in 52 countries: a scoping review of National policies. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1207. [PMID: 38693471 PMCID: PMC11061917 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18370-8] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Even prior to the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was ample evidence that loneliness and social isolation negatively impacted physical and mental health, employability, and are a financial burden on the state. In response, there has been significant policy-level attention on tackling loneliness. The objective of this scoping review was to conduct a loneliness policy landscape analysis across 52 countries of the UN European country groups. Our policy analysis sought to highlight commonalities and differences between the different national approaches to manage loneliness, with the goal to provide actionable recommendations for the consideration of policymakers wishing to develop, expand or review existing loneliness policies. METHODS We searched governmental websites using the Google search engine for publicly available documents related to loneliness and social isolation. Seventy-eight documents were identified in total, from which 23 documents were retained. Exclusion of documents was based on predetermined criteria. A structured content analysis approach was used to capture key information from the policy documents. Contextual data were captured in a configuration matrix to highlight common and unique themes. RESULTS We could show that most policies describe loneliness as a phenomenon that was addressed to varying degrees in different domains such as social, health, geographical, economic and political. Limited evidence was found regarding funding for suggested interventions. We synthesised actionable recommendations for the consideration of policy makers focusing on the use of language, prioritisation of interventions, revisiting previous campaigns, sharing best practice across borders, setting out a vision, evaluating interventions, and the need for the rapid and sustainable scalability of interventions. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides the first overview of the national loneliness policy landscape, highlighting the increasing prioritisation of loneliness and social isolation as a major public health and societal issue. Our findings suggest that policymakers can sustain this momentum and strengthen their strategies by incorporating rigorous, evidence-based intervention evaluations and fostering international collaborations for knowledge sharing. We believe that policymakers can more effectively address loneliness by directing funds to develop and implement interventions that impact the individual, the community and society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Goldman
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Ellen Wilkinson Building, Devas Street, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom.
- School of Public Heath, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Charing Cross Hospital, Reynolds Building, St Dunstan's Road, London, W6 8RF, United Kingdom.
| | - Devi Khanna
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Ellen Wilkinson Building, Devas Street, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom.
| | - Marie Line El Asmar
- North Hampshire Hospital, Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basingstoke, United Kingdom
| | - Pamela Qualter
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Ellen Wilkinson Building, Devas Street, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Austen El-Osta
- School of Public Heath, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Charing Cross Hospital, Reynolds Building, St Dunstan's Road, London, W6 8RF, United Kingdom
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22
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Arakawa H, Tokashiki M, Higuchi Y, Konno T. Adolescent social isolation disrupts developmental tuning of neuropeptide circuits in the hypothalamus to amygdala regulating social and defensive behavior. Peptides 2024; 175:171178. [PMID: 38368908 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2024.171178] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Engaging in positive social (i.e., prosocial) interactions during adolescence acts to modulate neural circuits that determine adult adaptive behavior. While accumulating evidence indicates that a strong craving for prosocial behavior contributes to sustaining neural development, the consequences of social deprivation during adolescence on social neural circuits, including those involving oxytocin (OXT) and vasopressin (AVP), are poorly characterized. We evaluated adaptive behaviors in socially isolated mice, including anxiety-like, social, and defensive behaviors, along with OXT and AVP neural profiles in relevant brain regions. Social isolation from postnatal day (P-)22 to P-48 induced enhanced defensive and exploratory behaviors, in nonsocial and social contexts. Unlike OXT neurons, AVP+ cell density in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus increases with age in males. Social isolation also modulated gene expression in the medial amygdala (MeA), including the upregulation of OXT receptors in males and the downregulation of AVP1a receptors in both sexes. Socially isolated mice showed an enhanced defensive, anogenital approach toward a novel adult female during direct social interactions. Subsequent c-Fos mapping revealed diminished neural activity in restricted brain areas, including the MeA, lateral septum, and posterior intralaminar nucleus of the thalamus, in socially isolated mice. These data indicate that neural signals arising from daily social interactions invoke region-specific modification of neuropeptide expression that coordinates with altered defensiveness and neural responsivities, including OXT- and AVP-projecting regions. The present findings indicate an involvement of OXT and AVP circuits in adolescent neural and behavioral plasticity that is tuned by daily social interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Arakawa
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, MI, USA.
| | - Mana Tokashiki
- Faculty of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Yuki Higuchi
- Department of Systems Physiology, University of the Ryukyus Graduate School of Medicine, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Konno
- Department of Subtropical Agro-Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan; The United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
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23
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Ding L, Liu J, Yang Y, Cui Z, Du G. Chronically socially isolated mice exhibit depressive-like behavior regulated by the gut microbiota. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29791. [PMID: 38681644 PMCID: PMC11046198 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29791] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Chronic loneliness is a widespread issue, and the gut-brain axis is known to be crucial in facilitating communication between the gut and brain. However, the precise mechanism by which chronic loneliness affects the gut-brain axis remains uncertain. Methods Fourteen 55-week-old Balb/c mice were used in the experiment, with seven mice being randomly assigned to the chronic social isolation (CSI) group. The CSI group mice underwent 12 weeks of isolation to simulate the psychiatric state of a population in prolonged social isolation. The mental state of the CSI mice was assessed through animal behavior analysis, while plasma cytokines were measured using ELISA. Additionally, the composition of the gut microbiota was analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing, and the metabolite composition of the intestinal contents was examined using nontargeted metabolomics. The Student-T test was used to determine significant mean differences. Results Mice that were exposed to the CSI exhibited increased immobility time lengths in forced swimming and hanging tail experiments, and decreased movement lengths and number of times traversing the intermediate region, compared to control mice. Additionally, CSI decreased the abundance of the probiotics Ruminococcaceae, Akkermansiaceae, and Christensenellaceae. Additionally, CSI reduced the production of the metabolites oleamide and tryptophan. Furthermore, IL-1β, IL-4, and IL-6 were significantly increased, while TNF-α was significantly decreased. Conclusion CSI induces a dysbiotic gut microbiota and the production of neurorelated metabolites, which in turn increase inflammatory responses and result in depressive behaviors in CSI mice. Therefore, these findings suggest that the gut microbiota may serve as a target for the treatment of long-term social isolation-induced mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linwei Ding
- Biotechnology Laboratory, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Jiaqi Liu
- Biotechnology Laboratory, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- Biotechnology Major, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Yunjia Yang
- Biotechnology Laboratory, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- School of Public Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Zeying Cui
- Biotechnology Laboratory, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Guankui Du
- Biotechnology Laboratory, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- Biotechnology Major, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
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24
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Ross EJ, Jimenez DE, Ghanooni D, Mendez A, Hirshfield S, Horvath KJ, DeVries B, Dilworth SE, Carrico AW, Martinez CA. Loneliness, Methamphetamine Use, and Cardiovascular Risk Factors Among Sexual Minority Men in the COVID-19 Era. Int J Behav Med 2024:10.1007/s12529-024-10288-0. [PMID: 38684565 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-024-10288-0] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Important gaps exist in our understanding of loneliness and biobehavioral outcomes among sexual minority men (SMM), such as faster HIV disease progression. At the same time, SMM who use methamphetamine are approximately one-third more likely than non-users to develop cardiovascular disease. This study examined associations of loneliness, stimulant use, and cardiovascular risk in SMM with and without HIV. METHOD Participants were enrolled from August 2020 to February 2022 in a 6-month prospective cohort study. The study leveraged self-report baseline data from 103 SMM, with a subset of 56 SMM that provided a blood sample to measure markers of cardiovascular risk. RESULTS Loneliness showed negative bivariate associations with total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in the cardiometabolic subsample (n = 56). SMM with methamphetamine use (t(101) = 2.03, p < .05; d = .42) and those that screened positive for a stimulant use disorder (t(101) = 2.07, p < .05; d = .46) had significantly higher mean loneliness scores. In linear regression analyses, negative associations of loneliness with LDL and total cholesterol were observed only among SMM who used methamphetamine. CONCLUSION We observed lower cholesterol in SMM reporting loneliness and methamphetamine use. Thus, in addition to the observed associations of loneliness with cholesterol, there are important medical consequences of methamphetamine use including cardiovascular risk, higher HIV acquisition risk and progression, as well as stimulant overdose death. This cross-sectional study underscores the need for clinical research to develop and test interventions targeting loneliness among SMM with stimulant use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Ross
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Daniel E Jimenez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th Street, Suite 1436, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Delaram Ghanooni
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Armando Mendez
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism and the Diabetes Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1450 NW 10 Ave, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Sabina Hirshfield
- Department of Medicine, STAR Program, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, 450 Clarkson Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11203, USA
| | - Keith J Horvath
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, Alvarado Court, San Diego, 6363, CA, USA
| | - Britt DeVries
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Samantha E Dilworth
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California San Francisco, 550 16 Street, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Adam W Carrico
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Claudia A Martinez
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
- Department of Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14th Street, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
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25
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Yang JM, Lee SK, Kim JH. Association Between Objective Social Isolation and Unmet Medical Needs: A Nationwide Cross-sectional Study in South Korea. J Prev Med Public Health 2024:jpmph.23.516. [PMID: 38697912 DOI: 10.3961/jpmph.23.516] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2025] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between objective social isolation (SI) and unmet medical needs (UMN) in adults aged 19 and older. Methods A cross-sectional analysis was conducted of 208,619 adults aged 19 and older, excluding missing data, using the 2019 Korea Community Health Survey. To analyze the association between objective SI and UMN, the chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were performed. Results The prevalence of UMN was 1.14 times higher (odds ratio [OR], 1.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06-1.23) among those with SI than among those without SI, and the OR for groups with 5 SI types was 2.77 (95% CI, 1.86-4.12) compared to those with no SI types. In addition, a stratified analysis by age group showed that the association between SI and UMN existed even in groups under 64 years old. However, among those aged 65 and older, SI was associated with an OR of 1.53 (95% CI, 1.37-1.71) for UMN compared to non-SI. As the number of SI types increased, the prevalence of UMN also increased, indicating a strong association between SI and UMN in older adults. Conclusions This study found that individuals with SI experienced UMN due to fear and anxiety about interpersonal relationships. Therefore, based on the results of this cross-sectional study, it is necessary to investigate the causal relationship between SI and UMN through future longitudinal data.
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26
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Pan C. Bidirectional and Dynamic Relationships Between Social Isolation and Loneliness Among Older Adults in China. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2024:105003. [PMID: 38670171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2024.03.114] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the bidirectional associations and temporal dynamics between social isolation (SI) and loneliness among older adults. DESIGN This is a prospective cohort study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS With the global phenomenon of population aging, there has been a significant increase in the prevalence of SI and loneliness among older adults. These factors exert substantial impacts on the health and well-being of this population. Consequently, it is imperative to implement more effective interventions targeting SI and combating loneliness in order to enhance the overall health and well-being of older adults. METHODS Data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) were analyzed, focusing on individuals aged 65 and older. Generalized Cross-Lagged Modeling (GCLM) was used to assess these associations. RESULTS The findings reveal significant cross-lagged effects between SI and loneliness over the course of 16 years. Higher levels of SI at 1 time point predict increased loneliness scores in subsequent periods, and greater levels of loneliness at 1 time point predict higher SI scores in future periods. Notably, the impact of SI on loneliness is found to be larger and more enduring compared to the influence of loneliness on SI. These cross-lagged effects persist over an extended period, indicating a long-term reciprocal relationship between SI and loneliness among older adults. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This study provides valuable insights into the bidirectional associations between SI and loneliness among older adults. Given that the effect of SI dominates, the findings suggest that public health strategies aimed at promoting health and well-being should prioritize interventions that enrich older adults' social networks. Emphasizing early interventions aimed at enhancing social networks is essential for promoting healthy aging and overall well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoping Pan
- College of Medical Humanities and Management, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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27
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Bove M, Morgese MG, Dimonte S, Sikora V, Agosti LP, Palmieri MA, Tucci P, Schiavone S, Trabace L. Increased stress vulnerability in the offspring of socially isolated rats: Behavioural, neurochemical and redox dysfunctions. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 131:110945. [PMID: 38242425 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.110945] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Stressful events during pregnancy impact on the progeny neurodevelopment. However, little is known about preconceptional stress effects. The rat social isolation represents an animal model of chronic stress inducing a variety of dysfunctions. Moreover, social deprivation during adolescence interferes with key neurodevelopmental processes. Here, we investigated the development of behavioural, neurochemical and redox alterations in the male offspring of socially isolated female rats before pregnancy, reared in group (GRP) or in social isolation (ISO) from weaning until young-adulthood. To this aim, females were reared in GRP or in ISO conditions, from PND21 to PND70, when they were mated. Their male offspring was housed in GRP or ISO conditions through adolescence and until PND70, when passive avoidance-PA, novel object recognition-NOR and open field-OF tests were performed. Levels of noradrenaline (NA), serotonin (5-HT), 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), glutamate (GLU) and GABA were assessed in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Moreover, cortical ROS levels were quantified, as well as NF-kB and the NADPH oxidase NOX2 expression, redox status (expressed as GSH:GSSG ratio) and SOD1 amount. A significant decrease of the latency time in the PA was observed in the offspring of ISO females. In the NOR test, while a significant increase in the exploratory activity towards the novel object was observed in the offspring of GRP females, no significant differences were found in the offspring of ISO females. No significant differences were found in the OF test among experimental groups. Theoffspring of ISO females showed increased NA and 5-HIAA levels, whereas in the offspring persistently housed in isolation condition from weaninguntil adulthood, we detected reduced 5-HT levels and ehnanced 5-HIAA amount. No significant changes in GLU concentrations were detected, while decreased GABA content was observed in the offspring of ISO females exposed to social isolation. Increased ROS levels as well as reduced NF-κB, NOX2 expression were detected in the offspring of ISO females. This was accompanied by reduced redox status and enhanced SOD1 levels. In conclusion, our results suggest that female exposure to chronic social stress before pregnancy might have a profound influence on the offspring neurodevelopment in terms of cognitive, neurochemical and redox-related alterations, identifying this specific time window for possible preventive and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Bove
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 20, Foggia 71122, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Morgese
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 20, Foggia 71122, Italy
| | - Stefania Dimonte
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 20, Foggia 71122, Italy
| | - Vladyslav Sikora
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 20, Foggia 71122, Italy
| | - Lisa Pia Agosti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 20, Foggia 71122, Italy
| | - Maria Adelaide Palmieri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 20, Foggia 71122, Italy
| | - Paolo Tucci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 20, Foggia 71122, Italy
| | - Stefania Schiavone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 20, Foggia 71122, Italy.
| | - Luigia Trabace
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Via Napoli 20, Foggia 71122, Italy
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28
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Liu Q, Wang B, Huang Y, Bian Y, Li Y, Zhou W, Yu J, Chen H, Wang C. Joint trajectories of loneliness, social isolation and sarcopenia and associations with adverse outcomes: A prospective cohort study. Geriatr Nurs 2024; 57:132-139. [PMID: 38642489 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2024.04.013] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to examine joint trajectories of loneliness, social isolation and sarcopenia and their associations with adverse outcomes. A total of 4701 participants aged ≥60 years who had a baseline and at least one follow-up assessment of loneliness, social isolation and sarcopenia across 2011, 2013 and 2015 waves in China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Adverse outcomes were obtained in 2018 wave. Joint trajectories were fit using the parallel process latent class growth analysis, and their associations with adverse outcomes were evaluated using modified Poisson regression. Joint trajectory patterns for social relationship and sarcopenia did not vary by the assessment for sarcopenia, but did vary by the assessment for social relationship. Older adults exhibit distinct joint trajectories and those with persistent combination of loneliness or social isolation and sarcopenia experience greatest risk of adverse outcomes. These findings implicate integration of health care and social care for community-dwelling older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinqin Liu
- School of Nursing, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Binlin Wang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yuli Huang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yanhui Bian
- School of Nursing, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yanyan Li
- School of Nursing, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Wendie Zhou
- School of Nursing, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jiaqi Yu
- School of Nursing, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hejing Chen
- School of Nursing, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Cuili Wang
- School of Nursing, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China.
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Corcoran E, Bird M, Batchelor R, Ahmed N, Nowland R, Pitman A. The association between social connectedness and euthanasia and assisted suicide and related constructs: systematic review. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1057. [PMID: 38627694 PMCID: PMC11020194 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18528-4] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Euthanasia and assisted suicide (EAS) requests are common in countries where they are legal. Loneliness and social isolation are modifiable risk factors for mental illness and suicidal behaviour and are common in terminal illness. Our objective was to summarise available literature to clarify whether these and related measures of social connectedness might contribute to requests for EAS. METHODS We conducted a pre-registered (PROSPERO CRD42019160508) systematic review and narrative synthesis of quantitative literature investigating associations between social connectedness and a) requested/actual EAS, b) attitudes towards EAS, and c) a desire for hastened death (DHD) by searching six databases (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar) from inception to November 2022, rating eligible peer-reviewed, empirical studies using the QATSO quality assessment tool. RESULTS We identified 37 eligible studies that investigated associations with a) requested/actual EAS (n = 9), b) attitudes to EAS (n = 16), and c) DHD (n = 14), with limited overlap, including 17,359 participants. The majority (62%) were rated at medium/high risk of bias. Focussing our narrative synthesis on the more methodologically sound studies, we found no evidence to support an association between different constructs of social connectedness and requested or actual EAS, and very little evidence to support an association with attitudes to EAS or an association with DHD. CONCLUSIONS Our findings for all age groups are consistent with a those of a previous systematic review focussed on older adults and suggest that poor social connectedness is not a clear risk factor for EAS or for measures more distally related to EAS. However, we acknowledge low study quality in some studies in relation to sampling, unvalidated exposure/outcome measures, cross-sectional design, unadjusted analyses, and multiple testing. Clinical assessment should focus on modifying established risk factors for suicide and EAS, such as hopelessness and depression, as well as improving any distressing aspects of social disconnectedness to improve quality of life. FUNDING UKRI, NIHR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Corcoran
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Oxford Centre for Psychological Health, Oxford, UK
- North East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Molly Bird
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rachel Batchelor
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, West Sussex, UK
- The Oxford Institute of Clinical Psychology Training and Research, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Nafiso Ahmed
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Nowland
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Alexandra Pitman
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK.
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
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Jutengren G, Ståhl F. Determinants of social loneliness among older adults in job retirement and the role of emotional expressivity. Aging Ment Health 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38619317 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2024.2338205] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study examined the possibility that a mediating role of positive and negative emotional expressivity may contribute to understanding the associations between social loneliness and its previously identified predictors (i.e. health, age, sex, and social living situation). METHOD Self-reported assessments were collected from community-dwelling Swedish residents (aged 65 and above) in job retirement. Structural equation modeling with manifest variables was applied to cross-sectional data (N = 601) to analyze two competing models; one main-effect regression model, examining the predictive effect of emotional expressivity (along with health and sociodemographics) on social loneliness, and one mediation model, examining the mediating effect of emotional expressivity (using the bootstrapping technique provided in Mplus). RESULTS The results indicated that the mediation model fit the data considerably better than the main-effect regression model (Δχ2 [Δdf = 8] = 72.69, p < 0.00001), and demonstrated a good fit on its own, with CFI = 0.986 and RMSEA = 0.030. This suggests that emotional expressivity contributes to the understanding of the connection between social loneliness and its previously identified predictors. CONCLUSION Recognizing the significance of emotional expressivity has the potential to enhance our understanding of loneliness in older adults, both in theory and in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Göran Jutengren
- Department of Welfare, Management and Organization, Østfold University College, Halden, Norway
| | - Fredrik Ståhl
- Department of Caring Science, University of Borås, Borås, Sweden
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Meese KA, Boitet LM, Sweeney KL, Rogers DA. Perceived stress from social isolation or loneliness among clinical and non-clinical healthcare workers during COVID-19. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1010. [PMID: 38605388 PMCID: PMC11010423 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18363-7] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Workplace social isolation and loneliness have been found to result in a decline in job satisfaction and an increase in burnout among working individuals. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated feelings of loneliness and social isolation among healthcare workers. The majority of research on healthcare worker experiences is conducted in siloes which does not reflect the shared experiences of interprofessional teams. The purpose of this study is to understand stress from social isolation or loneliness across the entire clinical and non-clinical healthcare team over the course of the pandemic. METHODS Data was acquired using a cross-sectional survey distributed to healthcare workers once a year at a large academic medical center in the Southeastern United States during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2022). Information pertaining to job role, work location, and demographic factors was collected. Participants were also asked to assess individual well-being and resilience, in addition to reporting stress derived from various sources including job demands and social isolation or loneliness. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analyses were conducted to assess the association between stress from social isolation or loneliness and individual characteristics. RESULTS Stress from social isolation or loneliness was found to decrease over the survey period across all measured variables. Trainees and physician-scientists were found to report the highest rates of this stressor compared to other job roles, while Hospital-Based ICU and Non-ICU work locations reported the highest rates of loneliness and social isolation stress. Younger workers and individuals from marginalized gender and racial groups were at greater risk for stress from social isolation or loneliness. CONCLUSIONS Given the importance of social connections for well-being and job performance, organizations have a responsibility to create conditions and mechanisms to foster social connections. This includes establishing and reinforcing norms of behavior, and developing connection mechanisms, particularly for groups at high risk of loneliness and social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A Meese
- Department of Health Services Administration, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, United States.
- UAB Medicine Office of Wellness, UAB, Birmingham, United States.
| | - Laurence M Boitet
- UAB Medicine Office of Wellness, UAB, Birmingham, United States
- Department of Medical Education, UAB, Birmingham, United States
| | | | - David A Rogers
- UAB Medicine Office of Wellness, UAB, Birmingham, United States
- Department of Surgery, UAB, Birmingham, United States
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Hajek A, Gyasi RM, König HH. Factors associated with loneliness among individuals aged 80 years and over: Findings derived from the nationally representative "Old Age in Germany (D80+)" study. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2024; 123:105443. [PMID: 38631279 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2024.105443] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To clarify the factors associated with loneliness in individuals aged 80 years and older in Germany (also stratified by sex). METHODS Data from the nationally representative "Old Age in Germany (D80+)" were employed. The analytic sample equaled 10,031 individuals. The D80+ study included community-dwelling and institutionalized individuals ≥ 80 years in Germany. Multiple linear regressions were used (with sociodemographic and health-related explanatory factors). The collection of data occurred between November 2020 and April 2021 (written questionnaire). RESULTS Higher loneliness was significantly associated with not being married (e.g., widowed compared to being married, β=0.37, p<.001), being institutionalized (β=0.33, p<.001), low education (high education compared to low education, β=-0.07, p<.01), a higher number of chronic conditions (β=0.02, p<.001), poor self-rated health (β=-0.19, p<.001) and greater functional impairment (β=0.15, p<.001). Sex-stratified regressions produced comparable results. However, low education was only associated with higher loneliness among men, but not women (with significant interaction: education x sex). CONCLUSION Several sociodemographic and health-related factors can contribute to loneliness among the oldest old in Germany, with sex-specific associations between education and loneliness. Overall, such knowledge can aid to address individuals with higher loneliness levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Razak M Gyasi
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya; National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
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Sasaki N, Kuroda R, Tsuno K, Imamura K, Eguchi H, Shimazu A, Kawakami N. Loneliness without distress, chosen isolation (solitude) at the workplace, and mental health and job performance: a cross-sectional study of Japanese employees. Ind Health 2024:2023-0181. [PMID: 38583956 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.2023-0181] [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: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
While loneliness and social isolation in the workplace affect the mental health and job performance of employees, the effects of loneliness without distress and solitude (i.e., chosen isolation) on these outcomes are unclear. The cross-sectional association was examined by using online survey of full-time employees in Japan (n=846). The results showed that the "loneliness with distress" group had significantly higher psychological distress and lower job performance than the other groups. Work engagement was lower both in the "loneliness with distress" and "loneliness without distress" groups, compared to the "non-loneliness" group. The "unchosen isolation" and the "solitude" groups had poorer scores of psychological distress, work engagement, and work performance, compared to the "non-isolation" group. The preliminary findings showed that loneliness without distress and solitude were associated with poor levels of mental health and job performance and should become a target of mental health promotion interventions in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsu Sasaki
- Department of Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Reiko Kuroda
- Division for Environment, Health, and Safety, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kanami Tsuno
- School of Health Innovation, Kanagawa University of Human Services, Japan
| | - Kotaro Imamura
- Department of Digital Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hisashi Eguchi
- Department of Mental Health, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan
| | | | - Norito Kawakami
- Department of Digital Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
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Almishri W, Altonsy MO, Swain MG. Cholestatic liver disease leads to significant adaptative changes in neural circuits regulating social behavior in mice to enhance sociability. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167100. [PMID: 38412926 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167100] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Cholestatic liver diseases (CLD) are commonly associated with behavioral changes, including social isolation, that negatively affects patient quality of life and remains unaltered by current therapies. It remains unclear whether CLD-associated social dysfunction stems from a direct effect on the brain, or from the psychological impact of CLD. The psychological component of disease is absent in animals, so we investigated the impact of CLD on social behavior and gene expression profiles in key social behavior-regulating brain regions in a mouse model. METHODS CLD due to bile duct ligation was used with the three-chamber sociability test for behavioral phenotyping. Differentially expressed gene (DEG) signatures were delineated in 3 key brain regions regulating social behavior using RNA-seq. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA®) was applied to streamline DEG data interpretation and integrate findings with social behavior-regulating pathways to identify important brain molecular networks and regulatory mechanisms disrupted in CLD. RESULTS CLD mice exhibited enhanced social interactive behavior and significantly altered gene expression in each of the three social behavior-regulating brain regions examined. DEG signatures in BDL mice were associated with key IPA®-identified social behavior-regulating pathways including Oxytocin in Brain Signaling, GABA Receptor Signaling, Dopamine Receptor Signaling, and Glutamate Receptor Signaling. CONCLUSIONS CLD causes complex alterations in gene expression profiles in key social behavior-regulating brain areas/pathways linked to enhanced social interactive behavior. These findings, if paralleled in CLD patients, suggest that CLD-associated reductions in social interactions predominantly relate to psychological impacts of disease and may inform new approaches to improve management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wagdi Almishri
- Department of Medicine, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Mohammed O Altonsy
- Department of Medicine, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Mark G Swain
- Department of Medicine, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; University of Calgary Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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Boggero IA, Sangalli L, Brasch L, King CD. Social health in young women with chronic pain. Pain Rep 2024; 9:e1146. [PMID: 38505830 PMCID: PMC10950150 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000001146] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Chronic pain may negatively affect social functioning, but no study to date has examined the specific social impact of different chronic pain conditions in young women, and whether living with multiple chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs) differently influences social domains. Objectives This study aimed to assess social functioning (social isolation, hostility, informational support satisfaction, social roles, emotional support, friendships, and family relationships) among young women with chronic pain compared with pain-free controls and to test whether the number of COPCs influenced the extent of social burden. Methods Participants aged 18 to 30 years with a physician-confirmed diagnoses of migraine, fibromyalgia, or temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and pain-free controls were invited to participate from across the United States. After confirming eligibility, participants completed a 1-hour REDCap online questionnaire assessing social functioning. Results One hundred four participants (mean age 24.54 ± 3.35 years) were included (n = 26 with TMD, n = 25 with fibromyalgia, n = 25 with migraine, and n = 28 controls). All 3 chronic pain groups combined reported worse functioning than controls on friendship (P = 0.038), social isolation (P = 0.002), and social roles (P < 0.001). There were no differences on social variables between the 3 chronic pain groups (all P's > 0.05). Compared with those with 3 COPCs, participants with 1 condition reported better family relationships (P = 0.024). Conclusions Experience of chronic pain-regardless of the specific pain condition-may negatively affect some areas of social functioning in young women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian A. Boggero
- Division of Orofacial Pain, Department of Oral Health Science, College of Dentistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Linda Sangalli
- College of Dental Medicine—Illinois, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA
| | - Lauryn Brasch
- Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Christopher D. King
- Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Pediatric Pain Research Center (PPRC), Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Filaretova LP, Komkova OP, Morozova OY, Punina PV, Yarushkina NI. Environmental enrichment reverses proulcerogenic action of social isolation on the gastric mucosa and positively influences pain sensitivity and work capacity. Inflammopharmacology 2024; 32:909-915. [PMID: 38492182 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-024-01451-w] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of rat housing conditions-standard conditions, social isolation, environmental enrichment-and the subsequent reversal of these conditions on the vulnerability of the gastric mucosa to ulcerogenic stimuli, somatic pain sensitivity, and treadmill work capacity. Rats, aged 30 days, were placed in standard conditions (SC), social isolation (Is), and environmental enrichment (EE) for 4 weeks. Then half of each group underwent a reversal of housing conditions: SC rats were moved to Is, Is rats were placed in EE, EE rats were moved to Is, for 2 weeks. The other half served as a control with no change in their initial housing. Two weeks after the reversal, vulnerability of the gastric mucosa to ulcerogenic action of indomethacin (IM, 35 mg/kg, sc), somatic pain sensitivity (hot plate test), and work capacity (measured by the running distance on a treadmill) were assessed in control and reversed groups. Social isolation induced a proulcerogenic effect, increasing IM-induced gastric erosions, which was effectively reversed when rats were transferred to an environmental enrichment. Conversely, transferring rats from an environmental enrichment to social isolation exacerbated ulcerogenic action of IM. Somatic pain sensitivity and treadmill work capacity were also influenced by housing conditions, with environmental enrichment showing positive effects. The present findings show that social isolation of rats induces a proulcerogenic effect. Environmental enrichment reverses proulcerogenic action of social isolation on the gastric mucosa and increases resilience to pain stimuli and treadmill work capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludmila P Filaretova
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology, Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Nab. Makarova 6, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia.
| | - Olga P Komkova
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology, Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Nab. Makarova 6, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - Olga Yu Morozova
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology, Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Nab. Makarova 6, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - Polina V Punina
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology, Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Nab. Makarova 6, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - Natalia I Yarushkina
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology, Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Nab. Makarova 6, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
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Meng X, Su J, Gao T, Ma D, Zhao Y, Fang S, Zhi S, Li H, Sun J. Multidomain interventions based on a life-course model to prevent dementia in at-risk Chinese older adults: A randomized controlled trial. Int J Nurs Stud 2024; 152:104701. [PMID: 38330865 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2024.104701] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the time-dependent effect of specific risk factors for dementia, multidomain interventions based on a life-course model might achieve optimal preventive effects against dementia. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of multidomain interventions based on a life-course model of modifiable risk factors for dementia in at-risk Chinese older adults. DESIGN This was a two-arm, proof-of-concept, randomized controlled trial. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS We randomly assigned 96 community-dwelling at-risk adults aged 60 years or older in a 1:1 ratio to either the 6-month multidomain intervention group (dementia literacy, physical activity, cognitive training, social activity and optional modules) or the control group (health education). METHODS The primary outcomes were the dementia risk score and cognitive composite Z score. The secondary outcomes included the individual components of the dementia risk score (protective and risk factors) and cognitive composite Z score (global cognition, memory, executive function and language), social isolation (loneliness, social contact, and social participation), dementia literacy and prevention belief. Linear mixed models with maximum likelihood estimation were used to calculate the outcomes between the groups over time. RESULTS The primary analyses showed that the dementia risk score was significantly lower (p < 0.001) and that the cognitive composite Z score was significantly higher (p = 0.013) in the multidomain intervention group than in the control group. Baseline characteristics did not modify the effects of the multidomain interventions (p value for interaction > 0.05). For secondary outcomes, statistically significant group × time interactions were observed for the protective (p = 0.001) and risk factors (p = 0.049), as well as in executive function (p = 0.020), loneliness (p = 0.029), dementia literacy (p < 0.001) and prevention belief (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Multidomain interventions based on a life-course model are feasible and have the potential to reduce dementia risk and improve cognitive function in at-risk Chinese older adults. REGISTRATION The trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR2100053417).
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangfei Meng
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; School of Nursing, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianping Su
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; School of Nursing, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi Municipality, Xinjiang, China
| | - Tianbao Gao
- Department of Internal Medicine, Beian No.2 People's Hospital, Beian, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Dongfei Ma
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yanjie Zhao
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Shuyan Fang
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Shengze Zhi
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Hongyang Li
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jiao Sun
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
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Zhu S, Kong X, Han F, Tian H, Sun S, Sun Y, Feng W, Wu Y. Association between social isolation and depression: Evidence from longitudinal and Mendelian randomization analyses. J Affect Disord 2024; 350:182-187. [PMID: 38220103 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.106] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing evidence shows that social isolation and depression are likely to interact with each other, yet the direction and causality of the association are not clear. This study aims to examine the possible reciprocity in the relationship between social isolation and depression. METHODS This study fitted a cross-lagged panel model (CLPM) by using data from the English Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSA, 2014-2019, n = 6787) to examine the temporal relationship between social isolation and depressive symptoms in older adults. We then conducted two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses by using independent genetic variants associated with multiple social isolation phenotypes (n = 448,858-487,647) and with depression (n = 215,644-2,113,907) as genetic instruments from genome-wide association studies to assess the causality between social isolation and onset of depression. RESULTS The CLPM in the ELSA cohort showed a significant and positive lagged effect of social isolation on depressive symptoms (β = 0.037, P < .001). The reverse cross-lagged path from depressive symptoms to social isolation was also statistically significant (β = 0.039, P < .001). In two-sample bidirectional MR, the genetically predicted loneliness and social isolation combined phenotype (LNL-ISO) was positively associated with occurrence of depression (OR = 1.88, 95 % CI: 1.41-2.50, P < .001), vice versa (OR = 1.16, 95 % CI:1.13-1.20, P < .001). LIMITATIONS The self-report nature of the assessments and missing data are study limitations. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest a bidirectional relationship between social isolation and depression. It is important to develop interventions that highlight the reciprocal consequences of improving either mental health or social connection in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Public Health College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiangjie Kong
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Public Health College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Fulei Han
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Public Health College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Huimin Tian
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Public Health College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shuqin Sun
- Department of Geriatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yanping Sun
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wenjing Feng
- Department of Geriatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yili Wu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Public Health College, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
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Shimada H, Doi T, Tsutsumimoto K, Makino K, Harada K, Tomida K, Morikawa M, Arai H. Combined impact of physical frailty and social isolation on use of long-term care insurance in Japan: A longitudinal observational study. Maturitas 2024; 182:107921. [PMID: 38295504 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2024.107921] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The combined effect of physical frailty and social isolation on the need to make use of long-term care insurance (LTCI) among older adults remains unknown. Thus this study investigates the association between physical frailty, social isolation, and the use of LTCI among older adults in Japan. STUDY DESIGN This is a prospective observational study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Physical frailty is defined as limitations in strength, mobility, and physical activity, as well as exhaustion and weight loss. People with one or two indicators were categorized as pre-frail. Participants with a score of 1 point or more on the social isolation scale were defined as being socially isolated. Participants were followed up monthly for two years to check whether incident certification of care had been required. RESULTS Data on 4576 community-dwelling independent older adults (mean age, 73.9 ± 5.5 years, 2032 men, 2544 women) were analyzed. A time-dependent Cox proportional hazards regression model showed that individuals with pre-frailty without social isolation (hazard ratio [HR] 2.02, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.40-2.91), pre-frailty with social isolation (HR 2.36, 95 % CI 1.62-3.43), frailty without social isolation (HR 2.98, 95 % CI 1.83-4.85), and frailty with social isolation (HR 3.19, 95 % CI 2.07-4.91) had significantly higher risks of needing to make use of LTCI than those with no frailty and without social isolation. This higher risk was non-significant among individuals with no frailty and social isolation (HR 1.28, 95 % CI 0.78-2.10). CONCLUSION Combined frailty and social isolation among older adults should be addressed to prevent adverse health outcomes, including use of LTCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Shimada
- Department of Preventive Gerontology, Centre for Gerontology and Social Science, National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan.
| | - Takehiko Doi
- Department of Preventive Gerontology, Centre for Gerontology and Social Science, National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Kota Tsutsumimoto
- Department of Preventive Gerontology, Centre for Gerontology and Social Science, National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Keitaro Makino
- Department of Preventive Gerontology, Centre for Gerontology and Social Science, National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Kenji Harada
- Department of Preventive Gerontology, Centre for Gerontology and Social Science, National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Kouki Tomida
- Department of Preventive Gerontology, Centre for Gerontology and Social Science, National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Masanori Morikawa
- Department of Preventive Gerontology, Centre for Gerontology and Social Science, National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Hidenori Arai
- Centre for Gerontology and Social Science, National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
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Wang S, Zhang H, Lou Y, You Q, Jiang Q, Cao S. Association of social isolation and loneliness with the risk of hypertension in middle aged and older adults: Findings from a national representative longitudinal survey. J Affect Disord 2024; 349:577-582. [PMID: 38199413 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.008] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social isolation and loneliness have been proved to be associated with many adverse health outcomes, but their influence on hypertension remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the relationship of social isolation and loneliness with hypertension risk among middle-aged and older adults in China. METHODS We used data from the 2011 and 2015 waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Participants were assessed for social isolation and loneliness at baseline, and hypertension was identified by self-report and blood pressure measurement at follow-up in 2015. Binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the association of social isolation and loneliness with the risk of hypertension. RESULTS A total of 3711 residents were included. 13.7 % of the participants had high level of social isolation and 18.1 % felt lonely. During the four-year follow up period, 651 participants developed hypertension. People with high level of social isolation had an increased risk of hypertension (odds ratio [OR]: 1.40, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.09-1.79). Similar results were found between social isolation score and hypertension risk (OR: 1.14, 95 % CI: 1.04-1.26). No significant association between loneliness and hypertension or any interaction effect of social isolation and loneliness on hypertension were observed. LIMITATIONS Limited by the structure of questionnaire, some of the information was derived by self-report, which may lead to recalling bias. CONCLUSION Social isolation, rather than loneliness was associated with hypertension for middle aged and older adults. Social support needs to be strengthened for hypertension prevention in community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqi Wang
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Yiling Lou
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Qiqi You
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Qingqing Jiang
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China.
| | - Shiyi Cao
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, Hubei, China.
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Wang Y, Ullah H, Deng T, Ren X, Zhao Z, Xin Y, Qiu J. Social isolation induces intestinal barrier disorder and imbalances gut microbiota in mice. Neurosci Lett 2024; 826:137714. [PMID: 38479554 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2024.137714] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Social isolation, a known stressor, can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. Recent scientific attention has been drawn to the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication system between the central nervous system and gut microbiota, suggesting that gut microbes may influence brain function. This study aimed to explore the impact of social isolation on the intestinal barrier and gut microbiota. 40 male BALB/c mice were either individually housed or kept in groups for 8 and 15 weeks. Socially isolated mice exhibited increased anxiety-like behavior, with significant differences between the 8-week and 15-week isolation groups (P < 0.05). After 8 weeks of isolation, there was a reduction in tight junction protein expression in the intestinal mechanical barrier. Furthermore, after 15 weeks of isolation, both tight junction protein and mucin expression, key components of the intestinal chemical barrier, decreased. This was accompanied by a substantial increase in inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 mRNA, IL-10, and TNF-α) in colon tissue in the 15-week isolated group (P < 0.05). Additionally, Illumina MiSequencing revealed significant alterations in the gut microbiota of socially isolated mice, including reduced Firmicutes and Bacteroides compared to the control group. Lactobacillus levels also decreased in the socially isolated mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- Department of Biotechnology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Hidayat Ullah
- Department of Biotechnology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Ting Deng
- Department of Biotechnology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xinxiu Ren
- Department of Biotechnology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Zinan Zhao
- Department of Biotechnology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yi Xin
- Department of Biotechnology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Juanjuan Qiu
- Central Lab, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
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Huang AR, Cudjoe TKM, Rebok GW, Swenor BK, Deal JA. Hearing and vision impairment and social isolation over 8 years in community-dwelling older adults. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:779. [PMID: 38475742 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17730-8] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the long-term impact of hearing and vision impairment on social isolation. This study quantifies the association between hearing, vision, and concurrent hearing and vision impairment (dual sensory impairment) and social isolation over 8 years among older adults. METHODS Data were from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), a cohort study (2011 - 2019) of U.S. Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older. Social isolation was measured by a binary indicator incorporating four domains: living arrangement, core discussion network size, religious attendance, and social participation. Hearing, vision, and dual sensory impairments were measured by self-report and modeled categorically (no impairment [ref.], hearing impairment only, vision impairment only, dual sensory impairment). Associations between sensory impairments and odds of social isolation over 8 years were assessed using multivariate generalized logistic mixed models and adjusted for demographic and health characteristics. RESULTS Among 5,552 participants, 18.9% self-reported hearing impairment, 4.8% self-reported vision impairment, and 2.3% self-reported dual sensory impairment. Over 8 years, hearing impairment only was associated with 28% greater odds of social isolation. Participants with hearing impairment only were more likely to live alone and have limited social participation. CONCLUSION Greater clinical awareness of hearing impairment as a risk factor for social isolation can increase opportunities to identify and aid older adults who may benefit from resources and interventions to increase social connection and mitigate social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison R Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21202, USA.
- Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Thomas K M Cudjoe
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - George W Rebok
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bonnielin K Swenor
- Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer A Deal
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21202, USA
- Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Disability Health Research Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Khan N, Anderson V, Crossley L, Hearps S, Catroppa C, Ryan NP. Nature and correlates of self-esteem in young adult survivors of childhood traumatic brain injury. Neuropsychol Rehabil 2024:1-17. [PMID: 38466215 DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2024.2326428] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Despite growing research linking childhood traumatic brain injury (TBI) with reduced wellbeing, self-esteem, and psycho-social health, very few studies have examined self-esteem and its correlates in young adult survivors of childhood TBI. This very-long-term follow-up study evaluated self-esteem in 29 young adults with a history of childhood TBI (M time since injury = 13.84 years; SD = 0.74), and 10 typically developing controls (TDCs). All participants were originally recruited into a larger, longitudinal case-control study between 2007 and 2010. In the current follow-up study, both groups completed well-validated measures of self-esteem and mental health in young adulthood. Although group means for self-esteem did not significantly differ between TBI and TDC groups, a higher proportion of TBI participants rated their self-esteem in the clinical range (TBI group = 17%; TDC group = 0%). While self-esteem was not significantly associated with injury or pre-injury child or family characteristics, lower self-esteem was significantly correlated with greater concurrent feelings of loneliness (p = 0.007) and higher concurrent mood symptoms (p < 0.001).Our results suggest that social isolation and low mood may represent meaningful targets for psycho-social interventions to address poor self-worth in young adults with a history of childhood TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Khan
- Brain and Mind, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Vicki Anderson
- Brain and Mind, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Psychology, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Louise Crossley
- Brain and Mind, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
| | - Stephen Hearps
- Brain and Mind, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
| | - Cathy Catroppa
- Brain and Mind, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Psychology, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Nicholas P Ryan
- Brain and Mind, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
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Nguyen AW, Taylor HO, Taylor RJ, Ambroise AZ, Hamler T, Qin W, Chatters LM. The role of subjective, interpersonal, and structural social isolation in 12-month and lifetime anxiety disorders. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:760. [PMID: 38468204 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18233-2] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent psychiatric conditions worldwide, and the incidence of anxiety disorders among adults in the U.S. have increased over the last decade. Anxiety disorders can have debilitating effects on multiple areas of functioning and quality of life. Recently, social isolation has emerged as an important public health problem associated with worse health and well-being outcomes. Research on the connection between social isolation and mental health has found that multiple dimensions of social isolation may negatively impact mental health, but few inquiries have focused on the association between social isolation and anxiety. This study examined the relationships between multiple dimensions of social isolation and anxiety disorders in a nationally representative sample of adults aged 18 and older. METHODS The sample includes 6082 individuals from the National Survey of American Life. This study examined whether three different dimensions of social isolation-subjective, interpersonal, and structural-were associated with 12-month and lifetime anxiety disorders (any anxiety disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder (PD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and agoraphobia (AG). Logistic regressions were used to test the associations between the three social isolation variables and the anxiety outcomes. RESULTS This study found that of the three dimensions of social isolation, subjective isolation was most consistently related to both lifetime and 12-month anxiety disorders. Those who were subjectively isolated had increased odds of meeting criteria for any anxiety disorder, PTSD, GAD, PD, and AG over the past 12 months and throughout their lifetimes. Structural isolation was negatively associated with lifetime and 12-month AG. CONCLUSIONS Public health approaches should include mental health and primary care providers and need to target social isolation, especially subjective isolation, which may be key in preventing anxiety disorders and the worsening of anxiety disorders. Future public health research is needed on how and in what ways the differing dimensions of social isolation impact mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann W Nguyen
- Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Ave, 44106, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Harry Owen Taylor
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor St W, M5S 1V4, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Robert Joseph Taylor
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, 1080 S. University Ave, 48109, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Alexis Z Ambroise
- College of Education and Human Development, University of Delaware, 19716, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Tyrone Hamler
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, 2148 S. High Street, 80210, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Weidi Qin
- Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1350 University Ave, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Linda M Chatters
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, 1080 S. University Ave, 48109, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, 48109, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Shi Y, Fong MWM, Metts CL, LaVela SL, Bombardier C, Hu L, Wong AWK. Dynamics of Perceived Social Isolation, Secondary Conditions, and Daily Activity Patterns Among Individuals With Stroke: A Network Analysis of Ecological Momentary Assessment Data. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2024:S0003-9993(24)00847-5. [PMID: 38458373 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2024.02.733] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess contemporaneous and temporal dynamics of perceived social isolation (PSI), secondary conditions, and daily activity patterns in individuals post-stroke. DESIGN Longitudinal observational study using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) as a real-time assessment of an individual's lived experiences. We conducted dynamic network analyses to examine longitudinal associations among EMA variables. SETTINGS Home and Community. PARTICIPANTS 202 individuals with mild-to-moderate chronic stroke (median age=60 years; 45% women; 44% black; 90% ischemic stroke; median NIHSS score=2; N=202). INTERVENTION Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES EMA questions measured PSI, secondary conditions (pain, tiredness, stress, anxiety, worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, and cheerfulness), and daily activity patterns (being at home, being alone, and participating in productive activities). RESULTS The median EMA response rate was 84%. The contemporaneous model showed that PSI was associated with being home, alone, and all symptoms except pain. The temporal model revealed a pathway indicating that feelings of worthlessness predicted PSI (regression coefficient=0.06, P=.019), followed by stress (regression coefficient=0.06, P=.024), and then by being not at home (regression coefficient=-0.04, P=.013). CONCLUSION Implementing dynamic network analyses on EMA data can uncover dynamic connections among PSI, secondary conditions, and daily activity patterns after stroke. This study found a significant temporal association between PSI and negative emotions. Feeling isolated was followed by feeling stressed, which was followed by a tendency to be out of home, indicating adaptive behaviors in individuals with stroke. These findings highlight the importance of engaging in out-of-home or outdoor activities to mitigate PSI and negative emotions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Shi
- Center for Healthful Behavior Change, Institute for Excellence in Health Equity, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY; Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Mandy W M Fong
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; Michigan Avenue Neuropsychologists, Chicago, IL
| | - Christopher L Metts
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
| | - Sherri L LaVela
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare, Department of Veterans Affairs, Edwards Hines Jr VA Hospital, Hines, IL
| | - Charles Bombardier
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Lu Hu
- Center for Healthful Behavior Change, Institute for Excellence in Health Equity, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY; Department of Population Health, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Alex W K Wong
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; Center for Rehabilitation Outcomes Research, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL; Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL.
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Elamoshy R, Farag M, Geda N, Feng C. Assessing the impact of COVID-19 on self-reported levels of depression during the pandemic relative to pre-pandemic among Canadian adults. Arch Public Health 2024; 82:29. [PMID: 38449047 PMCID: PMC10918925 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-024-01253-0] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to assess the impact of COVID-19 related risk factors on self-reported increases in depression among Canadian adults during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic levels. We aim to investigate the interactive effects of stressors, including social isolation, financial stress, and fear of catching COVID-19, on mental health outcomes. Our study aims to provide insights for the development of prevention and intervention strategies to address the mental health effects of the pandemic by examining the psychological changes attributable to the pandemic and its impact. METHODS This study used data collected from the Mental Health Research Canada online survey during the third wave of COVID-19 (April 20-28, 2021). The study examined the impact of COVID-19 related factors, including social isolation, financial concerns, fear of catching COVID-19, and concerns about paying bills, on self-reported increases in depression. Multivariable logistic regression models were utilized to examine these associations, with adjustments made for potential confounding variables. All statistical analysis was performed using SAS V9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA). RESULTS Participants reporting social isolation, financial concerns, and fear of catching COVID-19 were more likely to report increased depression. An interaction was observed between concerns for paying bills and catching COVID-19 in relation to depression (p = 0.0085). In other words, the effect of concerns about paying bills on depression was stronger for individuals who also had a fear of catching COVID-19, and vice versa. Young adults, females, patients with pre-existing depression, and residents of certain provinces reported higher levels of depression during COVID-19. CONCLUSION Our study underscores the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, particularly among certain demographic groups. It emphasizes the need for depression screening and increased support for mental health during the pandemic, with a focus on mitigating financial burdens and reducing negative psychological impacts of social isolation. Our findings highlight the complex interplay between different stressors and the need to consider this when designing interventions to support mental health during times of crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha Elamoshy
- School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Marwa Farag
- School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Nigatu Geda
- College of Development Studies, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
| | - Cindy Feng
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Dalhousie, Halifax, NS, Canada.
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Gunnes M, Løe IC, Kalseth J. Exploring the impact of information and communication technologies on loneliness and social isolation in community-dwelling older adults: a scoping review of reviews. BMC Geriatr 2024; 24:215. [PMID: 38431561 PMCID: PMC10908002 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-04837-1] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recognizing the escalating public health concerns of loneliness and social isolation in aging populations, this study seeks to comprehensively explore the potential of information and communication technology (ICT)-based interventions to address these issues among older adults. This scoping review of reviews aims to map and synthesize existing evidence on the effectiveness and scope of ICT interventions targeting loneliness and social isolation in community-dwelling older adults, elucidating types of technology, impacts, facilitators, barriers, and research gaps. METHODS Following the Joanna Briggs Institute framework, we systematically searched eight diverse databases identifying relevant published reviews. We included English-written, peer-reviewed reviews of all types, with no limits regarding time of publication about ICTs targeting loneliness and/or social isolation for community-dwelling older adults. Eligible reviews were analysed and summarized, offering a holistic narrative of the reported types of ICTs and their impact, the identified facilitators and barriers influencing the implementation and adoption of ICT interventions, and the research gaps identified in the literature. RESULTS The review included 39 publications published between 2012 and 2024, spanning systematic, scoping, and reviews of reviews. Various ICTs were reported, primarily social media virtual communities, followed by video-mediated friendly visits, conversational agents, social robots, exergames and online gameplay. Predominantly positive impacts on mitigating social isolation and loneliness were evident for these ICTs, although methodological diversity and contradictory findings complicated definite conclusions. Facilitators and barriers encompassed individual competencies, access and usage, and intervention design and implementation. Research gaps involved targeting specific subgroups, exploring innovative technologies, incorporating diverse study designs, improving research methodologies, and addressing usability and accessibility. Future research should focus on identifying elderly individuals who can benefit the most from ICT use, exploring novel technologies, using a wider range of study designs, and enhancing usability and accessibility considerations. CONCLUSIONS This review sheds light on the diverse range of ICTs, their impact, and the facilitators and barriers associated with their use. Future investigations should prioritize refining outcome measures, addressing gender differences, and enhancing the usability and accessibility of interventions. The involvement of older adults in the design process and the exploration of technological training interventions hold promise in overcoming barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari Gunnes
- Department of Health Research, SINTEF Digital, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Ida-Camilla Løe
- Department of Technology Management, SINTEF Digital, Steinkjer, Norway
| | - Jorid Kalseth
- Department of Health Research, SINTEF Digital, Trondheim, Norway
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Gao Q, Mak HW, Fancourt D. Longitudinal associations between loneliness, social isolation, and healthcare utilisation trajectories: a latent growth curve analysis. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024:10.1007/s00127-024-02639-9. [PMID: 38429539 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-024-02639-9] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the longitudinal associations between eight-year trajectories of loneliness, social isolation and healthcare utilisation (i.e. inpatient, outpatient, and nursing home care) in US older adults. METHODS The study used data from the Health and Retirement Study in 2006-2018, which included a nationally representative sample of American adults aged 50 and above (N = 6,832). We conducted latent growth curve models to assess the associations between trajectories of loneliness and isolation and healthcare utilisation over 8 years. RESULTS Independent of sociodemographic and health-related confounders, social deficits were associated with a lower likelihood of baseline physician visits (loneliness β= -0.15, SE = 0.08; social isolation β= -0.19, SE = 0.08), but there was a positive association between loneliness and number of physician visits (β = 0.06, SE = 0.03), while social isolation was associated with extended hospital (β = 0.07, SE = 0.04) and nursing home stays (β = 0.05, SE = 0.02). Longer nursing home stays also predicted better trajectories of loneliness and isolation over time. CONCLUSION Loneliness and social isolation are cross-sectionally related to complex patterns of different types of healthcare. There was no clear evidence that social deficits led to specific trajectories of healthcare utilisation, but nursing home stays may over time help provide social contact, supporting trajectories of isolation and potentially loneliness. Non-clinical services such as social prescribing could have the potential to address unmet social needs and further promote patients' health-seeking profiles for improving healthcare equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Gao
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Hei Wan Mak
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Daisy Fancourt
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK.
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Magalhães DM, Mampay M, Sebastião AM, Sheridan GK, Valente CA. Age-related impact of social isolation in mice: Young vs middle-aged. Neurochem Int 2024; 174:105678. [PMID: 38266657 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2024.105678] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Social isolation is a chronic mild stressor and a significant risk factor for mental health disorders. Herein we explored the impact of social isolation on depression- and anxiety-like behaviours, as well as spatial memory impairments, in middle-aged male mice compared to post-weaning mice. We aimed to quantify and correlate social isolation-induced behaviour discrepancies with changes in hippocampal glial cell reactivity and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Post-weaning and middle-aged C57BL7/J6 male mice were socially isolated for a 3-week period and behavioural tests were performed on the last five days of isolation. We found that 3 weeks of social isolation led to depressive-like behaviour in the forced swim test, anxiety-like behaviour in the open field test, and spatial memory impairment in the Morris water maze paradigm in middle-aged male mice. These behavioural alterations were not observed in male mice after post-weaning social isolation, indicating resilience to isolation-mediated stress. Increased Iba-1 expression and NLRP3 priming were both observed in the hippocampus of socially isolated middle-aged mice, suggesting a role for microglia and NLRP3 pathway in the detrimental effects of social isolation on cognition and behaviour. Young socially isolated mice also demonstrated elevated NLRP3 priming compared to controls, but no differences in Iba-1 levels and no significant changes in behaviour. Ageing-induced microglia activation and enhancement of IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6 proinflammatory cytokines, known signs of a chronic low-grade inflammatory state, were also detected. Altogether, data suggest that social isolation, in addition to inflammaging, contributes to stress-related cognitive impairment in middle-aged mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela M Magalhães
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal; School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Myrthe Mampay
- School of Applied Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Ana M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Cláudia A Valente
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal; Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.
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Pohl JS, Fleury J. Behavioral activation for family caregiver connectedness: Adaptation of an evidenced based intervention. Geriatr Nurs 2024; 56:285-290. [PMID: 38412635 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2024.02.016] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Informal caregivers of older adults with chronic illness have unique barriers to social connection. As the older adult population increases, individualized interventions are urgently needed to address the social disconnection experienced across generations of informal caregivers. Adapting an evidenced-based intervention to target social connectedness and leverage technology-mediated communication may be a promising approach. This article describes the adaptation of the Brief Behavioral Activation Treatment for Depression-Revised intervention using elements of the Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications-Enhanced. Facilitating the comprehensive documentation of modifications made, we discuss the (a) rationale for modifications, (b) timing and approach to modifications, (c) nature of context and content modifications, and (d) fidelity in modifications. The Behavioral Activation for Family Caregiver Connectedness intervention addresses unique barriers to caregiver social connection with individualized value-based plans. Modifications to content and delivery reflect the goal of improving intervention fit in the context of social connectedness experienced by informal caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet S Pohl
- Arizona State University, Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, 500 N 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States.
| | - Julie Fleury
- Arizona State University, Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, 500 N 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
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