Disseminating fraud awareness and prevention advice to older adults: perspectives on the most effective means of delivery

Difficulties with deception detection may leave older adults especially vulnerable to fraud. Interoception, that is, the awareness of one's bodily signals, has been shown to influence deception detection, but this relationship has not been examined in aging yet. The present study investigated effects of interoceptive accuracy on 2 forms of deception detection: detecting interpersonal lies in videos and identifying text-based deception in phishing emails. Younger (18-34 years) and older (53-82 years) adults completed a heartbeat detection task to determine interoceptive accuracy. Deception detection was assessed across 2 distinct, ecologically valid tasks: (i) a lie detection task in which participants made veracity judgments of genuine and deceptive individuals, and (ii) a phishing email detection task to capture online deception detection. Using multilevel logistic regression models, we determined the effect of interoceptive accuracy on lie and phishing detection in younger versus older adults. In older, but not younger, adults greater interoceptive accuracy was associated with better accuracy in both detecting deceptive people and phishing emails. Interoceptive accuracy was associated with both lie detection and phishing detection accuracy among older adults. Our findings identify interoceptive accuracy as a potential protective factor for fraud susceptibility, as measured through difficulty detecting deception. These results support interoceptive accuracy as a relevant factor for consideration in interventions targeted at fraud prevention among older adults.

A healthy diet is a key determinant of healthy ageing(1). Research indicates that individuals from Black African communities (both born in the UK and migrants communities) often have bicultural dietary patterns including both Westernised and African dietary practices(2). While this is known for the general Black African adult population, there remains a dearth of research on older African adults who may experience a complex nutrition landscape owing to an interplay of perceptions of healthy/unhealthy diets, social and cultural factors which can have negative outcomes for nutrition and health in later life. The aim of this study was to explore perceptions of eating well and healthy diets as determinants of inequalities in nutrition and healthy ageing in older African adults.A mixed methods cross-sectional study was conducted in older Africans, ≥ 55 years in the UK. Qualitative data was collected using Photovoice(3), an innovative visual, community-based participatory research (CBPR) method whereby participants take photographs to document, reflect upon health and social issues from their own perspective. As a research method, photovoice provides an alternative to the traditional barriers and enablers approach to understanding complex health challenges and is suited for use for populations who have been disenfranchised by traditional research methods(4). A purposive sample of 12 participants were provided with cameras and encouraged to take photos describing what they considered as healthy and unhealthy food and thoughts on eating well and older adult’s health. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to gain insights into the photos. Thematic analyses using both deductive and inductive approaches of photos and transcripts were conducted to develop and refine emerging themes using a framework.Participants were 62 ± 5.4 years and, 75% female. The majority were married (58.3%), living with family (41.7%), educated to postgraduate degree level (50.0%) and fulltime employed (66.7%). Emerging themes around healthy eating included variety and dietary diversity, organic foods, traditional foods, plant-based foods and healthy cooking methods. Themes around unhealthy food included ultra-processed foods, take-out foods, appearance, preservatives and consuming fats and oils. Hydration, social eating, accessing health and dietary advice, eating food that meets ageing needs, nostalgic eating and physical activity were the key themes that emerged around eating well and older adults’ health.This research provides new insights on perceptions of healthy eating among older African adults using photovoice, a novel participatory research method. The findings contribute to a better understanding of perceptions of healthy diets as a determinant influencing nutrition and healthy ageing in older African adults. There is a need for further research to understand i) how these perceptions influence dietary intake and ii) the complex interactions in nutritional knowledge, tradition, cultural and social factors to inform the design of effective community-based nutrition intervention tailored to ethnic identity of older African adults.

The legalization of cannabis in Thailand has increased its accessibility among older adults, leading to its use for managing various health problems based on personal perceptions. However, such use may increase the risk of side effects or adverse outcomes. A sequential explanatory mixed methods design was used to explore cannabis use for healthcare purposes among older adults. A survey utilizing questionnaires on knowledge, attitude, and cannabis use behavior was administered to 180 older Thai adults in Chiang Mai Province. Then, 30 participants took part in in-depth semi-structured interviews. Descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test were used to analyze quantitative data, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. The quantitative research results showed that older adults had a moderate level of knowledge about cannabis (x̅ = 11.2, SD = 1.72), a neutral attitude towards cannabis (x̅ = 3.5, SD = 0.50), and 33 older adults (18.3%) used cannabis for health maintenance. The qualitative findings revealed that older adults mainly obtained information about cannabis through online media. Although they acknowledged its benefits, they emphasized the importance of using it appropriately and in an informed manner. Alleviating health problems was the vital reason older adults used cannabis, obtaining it from sources both within and outside their community. The outcomes included effective and ineffective, leading to managing the effects of cannabis by discontinuing use and seeking information. Nurses should organize educational programs to promote accurate knowledge of the benefits and side effects of cannabis use, ensure access to reliable information sources, and monitor for potential adverse symptoms to support informed decision-making among older adults.

Fraud is a serious threat to the organization and should prevent as early as possible. The prevention and detection of fraud is the responsibility of management. The fraud experts estimate that the fraud that has revealed is a small part of all the actual fraud that occurred. Therefore, the main effort is on prevention. This study aims to determine the effect of internal controls and anti-fraud awareness in the prevention of fraud. The samples used were employees of UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta. Data were analyzed using multiple regressions. The results showed that the internal control does not affect the prevention of fraud. Meanwhile, the anti-fraud awareness significant positive effect on the prevention of fraud. The results of this study are not yet entirely following the conditions at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta. UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta has the concept of internal control and fraud prevention is good, but not yet implemented correctly by all parties. There are still some things that need to be improved practice, for example regarding employee performance evaluation, and program promotion of employees.DOI: 10.15408/etk.v17i2.7473

BackgroundWhen there are safety concerns, healthcare professionals (HCPs) may disregard older adults’ wishes to return or remain at home. A paradigm shift is needed for HCPs to move from labelling older adults as living at risk to helping them live with risk. The Living with Risk: Decision Support Tool (LwR:DST) was developed to support older adults and HCPs with difficult decision-making regarding living with risk. The study objectives were to: (1) validate, and (2) pilot-test the LwR:DST in hospital and community settings.MethodsThe study was conducted across Canada during the pandemic. The LwR:DST’s content was validated with quantitative and qualitative data by: (1) 71 HCPs from hospital and community settings using the Delphi method, and (2) 17 older adults and caregivers using focus groups. HCPs provided feedback on the LwR:DST’s content, format and instruction manual while older adults provided feedback on the LwR:DST’s communication step. The revised LwR:DST was pilot-tested by 14 HCPs in one hospital and one community setting, and 17 older adults and caregivers described their experience of HCPs using this approach with them. Descriptive and thematic analysis were performed.ResultsThe LwR:DST underwent two iterations incorporating qualitative and quantitative data provided by HCPs, older adults and caregivers. The quantitative Delphi method data validated the content and the process of the LwR:DST, while the qualitative data provided practical improvements. The pilot-testing results suggest that using the LwR:DST broadens HCPs’ clinical thinking, structures their decision-making, improves their communication and increases their competence and comfort with risk assessment and management. Our findings also suggest that the LwR:DST improves older adults’ healthcare experience by feeling heard, understood and involved.ConclusionsThis revised LwR:DST should help HCPs systematically identify frail older adults’ risks when they remain at or return home and find acceptable ways to mitigate these risks. The LwR:DST induces a paradigm shift by acknowledging that risks are inherent in everyday living and that risk-taking has positive and negative consequences. The challenges involved in integrating the LwR:DST into practice, i.e., when, how and with whom to use it, will be addressed in future research.

Aim: The overarching aim of this thesis was to gain understanding of the meaning and experience of sedentary behavior, its relation to physical activity, physical function, and health in older adults. Method: This thesis utilizes both qualitative and quantitative data. Two qualitative studies, involving in-depth interviews, investigated the lived experiences of sedentary behavior (n = 16, Study I) and the influence of lifelong physical activity experiences (n = 14, Study III) among community-dwelling older adults receiving initial support. Two quantitative studies examined physical activity and its correlates. Study II (n = 72) used questionnaires and accelerometers to measure daily step counts and its predictors in the same population as Studies I and III. Study IV (n = 819) leveraged data from the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care to investigate sit-to-stand time, a measure of lower body strength, in relation to physical function and health. Qualitative data were analyzed using a phenomenological hermeneutic approach (Study I) and qualitative content analysis (Study III). Quantitative data analysis involved descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression models (Studies II & IV). Result: Study I showed that, for older adults, sedentary behavior is more than just sitting still. They experience it as an adaptation to an aging body, influenced by choices and a sense of frailty. Although some view it as unnatural, others see it as a necessary part of recovery and rest. Study II showed that daily step counts among older adults are influenced by a combination of predictors, including time spent in long bouts of sitting, independent outdoor walking ability, and the intention to be more active. Interestingly, the multiple linear regression model explained 47.8% of the variance in daily step counts. Of seven predictors included, time spent sitting in bouts of at least 60 minutes per day (R2 = 19.6%), independence when walking outdoors (R2 = 9.2%), and intention to become more physically active (R2 = 13.0%) explained most daily step count variance. Study III showed that a lifetime of physical activity shapes how older adults approach physical activity later in life. They rely on an embodied “activity compass” based on past experiences and their body's current limitations to navigate daily routines and make choices about activity levels and support. Study IV showed predictors explaining sit-to-stand time. The multiple linear regression model explained 26.8% of the variance in sit-to-stand time. Out of seven predictors, grip strength (R2 = 12.0%), age (R2 = 7.2%), and generic quality of life (R2 = 2.8%) explained most sit-to-stand time variance. Conclusion: This thesis, grounded in the lived experiences of older adults, examined sedentary behavior, providing a deeper understanding of how to address sedentary behavior among older adults. Sedentary behavior is considered unnatural but still a conscious choice and sitting down for longer bouts during the day does not necessarily influence daily physical activity. Sedentary behavior among older adults can combine well-needed rest and engagement in meaningful activities. Furthermore, analyses of predictors of sit-to-stand time and daily step counts revealed potential disruptions to the natural motion of rising from a chair and walking. The findings suggest that older adults' lifelong experiences with physical activity and sedentary behavior become embodied knowledge, helping them navigate daily life.

Frailty is a geriatric syndrome characterized by decreased daily living activity, weight loss, weakness, and dependency caused by the cumulative decline in many physiological systems over the life span. This study examined older adults' perceptions of frailty. The study used a descriptive qualitative design. Data were collected using semistructured interviews with 14 older adults admitted to the geriatrics outpatient clinic in one Turkish institution from September to December 2019. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using the MAXQDA data analysis software. Codes were combined into themes. The respondents were aged 74.5 ± 8.7 years. Two themes emerged from the qualitative data: (i) the conceptualization of frailty; and (ii) coping with frailty. Some of the participants self-identified as frail, a natural consequence of aging. Another group of participants emphasized the feelings of hopelessness and hopefulness in coping with frailty in their remaining lives. This study provides insights into older Turkish adults' opinions regarding frailty, including the development of frailty and its relationship with health status and daily life. This understanding may be used to detect frailty in older adults and to improve frail older adults' care interventions.

ABSTRACTOlder adults are disproportionately targeted by various kinds of fraud, which result in irreversible economic losses and great psychological distress. Over the past years, researchers have conducted systematic research on the prevalence, under-reporting, and research methods of fraud victimization in older adults. Research paradigms regarding fraud victimization among older adults have mainly included cognitive, emotion regulation and motivation, and comprehensive paradigms. Factors shown to influence fraud victimization among older adults include cognitive decline, emotional regulation and motivational changes, their overly trusting nature, psychological vulnerability, social isolation, risk-taking, and a lack of knowledge and information regarding fraud prevention. Based on a review of the literature, future research can benefit from constructing a comprehensive fraud victimization theory, improving research methods, extending existing research, exploring physiological mechanisms of elderly fraud, and strengthening prevention and intervention efforts.

Fraud is an enormous obstacle to a country’s development because it can cause failure in achieving goals. The most significant source of fraud in Palembang Local Government of Indonesia arises from the procurement of goods and services, which reached 49.1% in 2020. Therefore, this study aims to examine how fraud awareness and good government governance affect fraud prevention. This paper targets one of the Regional Government areas of Palembang City, Indonesia. One hundred twenty-two respondents comprised the head of budget staff, budget user authority staff, and commitment-making committee staff. Data were obtained using a questionnaire with a Likert scale. The study employed two endogenous variables (fraud prevention and fraud awareness), one intervening (fraud awareness), and two exogenous variables (whistleblowing and good government governance). Following this, structural equation models were used to examine the relationships between each variable. The study results show a significant positive effect of whistleblowing and good governance on fraud awareness. In contrast, fraud awareness had no significant impact on fraud prevention. The obtained results found that fraud awareness cannot mediate the whistleblowing system through fraud prevention; also, fraud awareness is not a moderating variable to influence good governance through fraud prevention. The paper contributed empirical evidence to explore fraud prevention approaches by maintaining consistency in the implementation of the whistleblowing system, anti-corruption culture, and supervision to identify unusual activities.

Older adults have adopted new information technologies at lower rates than their younger counterparts. This is a concern as the integration of information technologies into society continues to advance, while older adults are among those who can potentially reap the greatest benefits from these technologies. Intergenerational Programs (IGPs), which pair older and younger adults for learning and socializing, are strong vehicles for countering the age usage gap. The researchers conducted an integrative review to synthesize recent research on technology-based IGPs and describe the current state of knowledge about these programs. All studies that met the inclusion criteria (n = 16) were conducted in North America and East Asia, which tend to be early adoption centers for information technology. The studies employed diverse methods and sample sizes, with 50% employing mixed-methods combining quantitative and qualitative data. Thematic analysis revealed four focus areas for technology-based IGPs: education and lifelong learning, social engagement, health technology literacy, and creative arts and crafts. IGPs that integrated face-to-face interactions with technology showed the most favorable outcomes in improving technological skills, social engagement, and confidence. The existing literature has limitations, including a near-absence of follow-up studies to evaluate the sustainability of IGP impacts after the end of a program.

Acceptance of technology related to healthcare among older Korean adults in rural areas: A mixed-method study

A descriptive exploration of younger and older adults’ experiences of Integrative Medical Group Visits for Long COVID

Criminals targeting and exploiting older adults in online environments are of great concern. This study systematically retrieved and analyzed articles on the psychological characteristics of older adult victims of online fraud. First, we found that there was no evidence that older adults were more prevalent than other individuals of other ages among online fraud victims, and current researchers have focused more on why older adults are easy targets for fraud (susceptibility to being cheated). Second, research on psychological factors of older adults' susceptibility to online fraud has mainly focused on cognitive function, trust traits, and other personality traits, such as social loneliness, the Big Five personality traits, and self-control. Among them, most researchers claim that the cyber-cheating of older adults may be due to a decline in their cognitive function. However, there has not been a consensus on how cognitive function and physical and mental conditions affect older people who are cheated. Third, techniques (i.e., methods and techniques used by fraudsters) and experience (i.e., familiarity with internet technology or fraud) may be related to the susceptibility of older adults to fraud, and these studies have also not yet generated a consensus supported by reliable data. Based on the above research uncertainties, we propose that fraud prevention and control strategies for older adults should be applied with caution.

BackgroundGhana is experiencing an epidemiological shift in public health issues toward non-communicable diseases that are underpinned by modifiable health behaviors. Physical activity rates have decreased, especially among older adults, coinciding with urbanization and an increase in sedentary work. Community-based physical activity programs are a recommended method of increasing physical activity levels; however, none currently exist in Ghana. The aim of this exploratory study was to determine older Ghanaian adults’ perceptions of physical activity and asses fit and feasibility of adapting and delivering a physical activity program for this population.MethodsThrough a concurrent exploratory mixed-methods design, data were gathered from Ghanaian older adults (N = 123) during focus groups (N = 10) conducted at one diabetes clinic and nine churches across three urban areas. Qualitative data were collected using a semi-structured script that prompted for responses related to physical activity perceptions and the fit and feasibility of physical activity program characteristics. Quantitative data were collected through a questionnaire assessing participant demographics, physical activity levels, and health rating as well as physical activity knowledge and self-efficacy.ResultsFindings indicate that older adults in Ghana have a need for and an interest in physical activity promotion. Participants had positive perceptions of being physically active, but were unaware of physical activity guidelines and how to meet them. Peer influence and health care providers’ recommendations were motivating factors for physical activity participation. As for desired physical activity program characteristics, participants expressed interest in group-based activities and becoming peer leaders and preference for a church-based program.ConclusionsThe results suggest that a group-based physical activity program encouraged by health care providers and delivered at churches through a train-the-trainer model would be well received by aging adults from three urban areas of Ghana. In addition, education on physical activity types is needed, along with better dissemination and education on Ministry of Health physical activity guidelines. This exploratory work highlights preliminary support for a group- and community-based physical activity program for the aging population in Ghana. Beginning with the end in mind, these program characteristics should be considered when adopting, adapting, and implementing an intervention with this population.

Little is known about generational differences and similarities in beliefs about social justice. Science Gallery Atlanta (SGA) is a museum integrating science and art to foster dialogue about challenging topics, including social justice. Previous research suggests intergenerational communication about social and political issues could positively impact older and younger adults. This study investigated perceptions of justice among a diverse sample of older (65+ years) and younger (18–26 years) adults through intergenerational dialogue on justice-focused art offered through SGA’s JUSTICE exhibition. This exploratory pilot study recruited ten randomized older-younger dyads who received a mediated tour of JUSTICE. Attitudes about discrimination, equity, and activism were assessed pre- and post-tour through self-report measures, including the Belief in a Just World, Addiction Belief, and Everyday Discrimination Scales, concurrent interviews, and focus groups. Qualitative data were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically using a nodal framework. Pre and post-tour, older adults were more confident than their younger counterparts about the involvement of others in social justice work. Post-tour, young adults rated community involvement in social justice work more favorably and expressed greater support for activism in daily life (p = 0.05). Interestingly, younger adults reported experiencing greater discrimination than older adults pre and post-tour (p < 0.05). Based on qualitative results, intergenerational bridging may help young adults trust in community activism’s efficacy and help older adults understand technology’s potential role in social change. Emergent themes illuminate generational differences and similarities in perceptions of social justice, suggesting SGA’s interdisciplinary experience effectively promotes discourse across different age groups.