Elderly Program Research Articles

Cardiometabolic risk factor clusters in older adults using latent class analysis on the Bushehr elderly health program

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), comprising obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, increases the risk of type II diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to identify the prevalence and determinants of specific clusters of the MetS components and tobacco consumption among older adults in Iran. The current study was conducted in the second stage of the Bushehr Elderly Health (BEH) program in southern Iran—a population-based cohort including 2424 subjects aged ≥ 60 years. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify MetS and tobacco consumption patterns. Multinomial logistic regression was conducted to investigate factors associated with each MetS class, including sociodemographic and behavioral variables. Out of 2424 individuals, the overall percentage of people with one or more components of MetS or current tobacco use was 57.8% and 20.8%, respectively. The mean (SD) age of all participants was 69.3(6.4) years. LCA ascertained the presence of four latent classes: class 1 (“low risk”; with a prevalence of 35.3%), class 2 (“MetS with medication-controlled diabetes”; 11.1%), class 3 (“high risk of MetS and associated medication use”; 27.1%), and class 4 (“central obesity and treated hypertension”; 26.4%). Compared to participants with a body mass index (BMI) < 30, participants with BMI ≥ 30 were more likely to belong to class 3 (OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.31–2.79) and class 4 (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.06–2.08). Polypharmacy was associated with membership in class 2 (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.12–3.81), class 3 (OR 9.77, 95% CI 6.12–15.59), and class 4 (OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.07–2.91). The elevated triglyceride-glucose index was associated with membership in class 2 (OR 12.33, 95% CI 7.75–19.61) and class 3 (OR 12.04, 95% CI 8.31–17.45). Individuals with poor self-related health were more likely to belong to class 3 (OR 1.43; 95% CI 1.08–1.93). Four classes were identified among older adults in Iran with distinct patterns of cardiometabolic risk factors. Segmenting elderly individuals into these cardiometabolic categories has the potential to enhance the monitoring and management of cardiometabolic risk factors. This strategy may help reduce the severe outcomes of metabolic syndrome in this susceptible population.

Evaluasi Program Bantuan Sosial Lansia Non Potensial di Kota Madiun dengan Model Context Input Process Product (CIPP)

The non-potential elderly social assistance program is Madiun City's flagship program for handling helpless elderly which is implemented on an ongoing basis, but has never been evaluated for its effectiveness. The aim of the research is to describe the results of the match between program achievements and the initial design and to determine the driving and inhibiting factors of the program. The research method is descriptive qualitative, with data collection techniques using observation, interviews and documentation. Evaluation uses the Context, Input, Process, and Product (CIPP) model. The results of the Context evaluation explain that the program objectives and target priorities are in line with community needs. Input shows that the instruments for implementing the program are incomplete. Process describes program implementation as less effective. The product shows that the program objectives have been achieved but have not been maximized. Meanwhile, factors driving the success of the program include the commitment of the Mayor of Madiun, fairly complete regulations, funding support, and community participation in implementing the program. Inhibiting factors include the limited number of implementing human resources, the lack of synergy between various parties, and the lack of an integrated system. The conclusion is that this program is still needed for the treatment of non-potential elderly, but program improvements need to be implemented immediately so that the goals are achieved more optimally.

Posyandu Cadres' Contributions to Elderly Health Improvement

Background: This study investigates the role of community health workers in promoting elderly health through integrated health posts. Specific Background: A qualitative descriptive approach is used to examine the significance of these workers in ensuring regular attendance of the elderly at health services. Knowledge Gap: While previous studies have focused on health post activities, they often overlook the specific strategies employed by community health workers. Aims: The study aims to clarify the contributions of community health workers in facilitating elderly health programs. Results: Findings indicate that these workers adapt activities, such as health consultations and educational sessions, to enhance elderly participation and health outcomes. Novelty: The research provides new insights into innovative service delivery by community health workers amid logistical challenges. Implications: The results highlight the need for ongoing support and training for community health workers, advocating for structured programs to enhance elderly engagement and well-being, with potential applications in similar contexts to improve elderly healthcare. Highlights : Community health workers play a crucial role in facilitating elderly health services. Adaptation of activities enhances elderly engagement and health outcomes. Continuous support and training for health workers are essential for effective program implementation. Keywords: community health workers, elderly health, qualitative study, health post, participation

Program TPQ Lansia: Upaya Meningkatkan Kemampuan Membaca Al-Qur’an di Kalangan Lanjut Usia

Many elderly people in Carikan Hamlet cannot yet read the Koran, and there are no special learning programs for them. Therefore, TPQ Elderly was established to provide Al-Qur'an learning that suits the needs of the elderly. The TPQ Elderly Program was introduced to the community through pamphlets and direct outreach through religious activities and village events. Learning begins with the introduction of hijaiyah letters using teaching aids and continues with methods suitable for the elderly. Even though there are obstacles such as limited time because activities can be carried out after Maghrib prayers, efforts have been made to create a pleasant and comfortable atmosphere and adapt learning methods to help the understanding of TPQ Elderly participants. Continuous evaluation will be carried out to assess the extent of effectiveness in helping elderly people read the Koran properly and correctly. Thus, through the PAR approach and implementation of the TPQ for the Elderly, the hope is to improve the ability to read the Koran in Carikan Hamlet and allow them to engage in meaningful religious activities in their old age.

Choosing a Vita Site Model: Traditional Face-To-Face versus Alternative Virtual Models

Since the early 1970s, the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance/Tax Counseling for the Elderly (hereafter, VITA) programs have provided free income tax return preparation and filing assistance for eligible taxpayers in various underserved communities. In 2020, COVID-19 presented VITA Site Coordinators with the unique challenge of either shutting down completely or finding ways to remain open amid a global pandemic. Many of those that remained open found themselves forced to rely upon virtual methods to accomplish at least some of the steps in the return preparation process, prompting heightened concerns over taxpayer identity verification and securitization of taxpayers’ personal information. Post-COVID beginning in 2022, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), to ensure consistent operation of all sites regardless of the site model being used, began requiring VITA Site Coordinators to document and receive approval for their planned methodologies by December 31 of the year preceding each filing season. The process is more burdensome for those sites using any remote methodologies and could partially explain why the number of VITA sites, VITA volunteers, and returns processed at VITA sites have not returned to pre-pandemic levels. This paper is intended to help VITA Site Coordinators better understand the different models they might use and make a sound choice based on that understanding to motivate greater participation in the VITA program.

Mobil Telefon Yoksunluğu (Nomofobi); Bir Meslek Yüksekokulu Örneği

Bu araştırma sağlık hizmetleri meslek yüksekokulu yaşlı bakımı programında eğitim gören birinci sınıf öğrencilerin nomofobi düzeylerini ve etkileyen faktörleri incelemek amacıyla gerçekleştirilmiştir. Tanımlayıcı tipte yürütülen araştırmanın örneklemini, bir üniversitenin yaşlı bakımı programına kayıtlı birinci sınıf (n=59) öğrencileri oluşturmuştur. Veriler “Bireysel Bilgi Formu” ve “Nomofobi Ölçeği (NMP-Q)” kullanılarak toplanmıştır. Araştırmaya katılan öğrencilerin yaş ortalamasının 19,64±1,36 yıl, %69,5’inin (n=41) kadın olduğu bulunmuştur. NMP-Q Toplam Puanının 82,0±35,0 olduğu tespit edilmiş olup çalışmaya katılan öğrencilerin orta seviyede nomofobik olduğu belirlenmiştir. Kadınların, nomofobi puanlarının erkeklere göre daha yüksek olduğu belirlenmiştir (P

Development of a Monk-Led Elderly Mental Health Counseling Program in Thai Buddhist Communities

The increasing mental health challenges among elders demand specialized interventions, especially within Thai communities where resources are limited and stigma persists. While monks offer spiritual support, there is a gap in addressing complex mental health needs. This research aims to develop a monk-led elderly mental health counseling program in Thai Buddhist communities. From January 2023 to March 2024, this study underwent four phases. Initially, qualitative interviews with thirty-six monk and elder participants elucidated requirements. The program development integrated findings from the requirement study, the Solution-Focused Brief Therapy process, and Buddhist mindfulness principles to create a prototype. The quality assessment involved expert content validation, feasibility examination by stakeholders, and a small-scale pilot testing with five monks. Finally, the feasibility of the program was assessed with thirty-two monks. The study reveals three key components of the monk-led elderly counseling program focused on mental health: the counseling process known as MPS-MAV-PI (an Introduction to Mindfulness, Identifying Problems, Assessing the Severity, Mindfully Observing Thoughts and Emotions, Acceptance, Visualizing Success, Planning Strategies for Problem-solving, and Implementation and Subsequent Monitoring), the C-TIME strategy (Collaboration, Training Manual, Implementation, the Monitoring, and Evaluation), and the program manual. Moreover, feasibility assessments among monks show the high feasibility of the program for implementation. The monk-led counseling program holds promise in addressing these challenges, with high feasibility indicating potential effectiveness and scalability. Future research will prioritize evaluating its cost-effectiveness and overall effectiveness.

The Thai Folk Game “Jik Sen” has Become a Recreational Sport for Older People in Senior Citizen Schools

Objectives. The purposes of this study were to: 1) develop an exercise program incorporating the Thai recreational sport “Jik Sen” for older people in senior citizen schools; 2) investigate the effects of the exercise program incorporating the Thai recreational sport “Jik Sen” on the physical fitness of older people in senior citizen schools; and 3) assess the satisfaction level of older people with the exercise program incorporating the Thai recreational sport “Jik Sen”. Materials and methods. This was a two-group experimental study including the experimental group of 17 people (65.53 ± 3.43 years) and the control group of 17 people (65.76 ± 3.60 years). The participants in this study were healthy individuals aged 60 years and above, who were actively engaged in the elderly school program. They were selected using a purposive sampling method and subsequently assigned them to the experimental and control groups using a matching method based on BMI. The research tools consisted of the exercise program, which incorporated the Thai recreational sport “Jik Sen” developed by the research team, and the Senior Fitness Test (SFT). For a period of 8 weeks, the experimental group involved in an exercise regimen comprising 60 minutes of daily training in the Thai recreational sport “Jik Sen”, with a frequency of 3 days per week. The control group was instructed to maintain their normal daily routine and did not participate in any physical activities or exercise programs during the experiment. The data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, percentage, and t-test. Results. 1) The exercise program incorporating the Thai recreational sport “Jik Sen” for older people in senior citizen schools can be appropriately used to promote exercise and sports in elderly schools in Thailand. The IOC value was 0.97. 2) A significant difference was observed in the mean scores of the 8-foot up-and-go test between the pre-experimental ( = 7.94, S.D. = 1.34) and post-experimental (after 8 weeks) ( = 6.70, S.D.= 0.79) periods for the experimental group at the level of 0.05. The mean scores of the 8-foot up-and-go test between the control group (= 7.84, S.D. = 1.16) and the experimental group (=6.70, S.D. = 0.79) were also found to be significantly different at the level of 0.05. 3) The experimental group expressed high levels of satisfaction with the exercise program involving the Thai recreational sport “Jik Sen” for older people in senior citizen schools, with a mean score of 4.62 ± 0.51 points. Conclusion. The exercise program incorporating the Thai recreational sport "Jik Sen" can effectively enhance the dynamic balance of older individuals in senior citizen schools. Furthermore, it has been shown to facilitate social interaction, improve cognitive abilities including thinking and planning skills, and promote enjoyment.

Pemberdayaan Kesehatan Lansia melalui Pemeriksaan Tekanan Darah, dan Senam Lansia di Kelurahan Partali Toruan Hutabarat

The aim of this research is to assess the effectiveness of the elderly health program run by the Partali Toruan Hutabarat Village, with special emphasis on participatory sessions specifically for the elderly and periodic blood pressure. The analytical method used is an intervention study with data collection both before and after the intervention. The results show a significant increase in understanding of the importance of regularly cleaning and using natural materials for the health of local communities. Apart from that, there was also a negative impact seen on the average blood pressure levels in the group of program participants. All of this highlights the important role of community initiatives in improving the health of the elderly through integrated and sustainable efforts, such as health education and promotion of active lifestyles.

Implementation of the Rantang Kasih Program in Ensuring the Welfare of Poor Elderly Alone

The elderly are a vulnerable group who cannot carry out productive activities in their lives. Decreased physical condition, loss of social influence and function, and increased dependence on others, encourage the Elderly group as a target in social protection programs. Social protection serves as a guardian of the welfare of the elderly from poverty and hunger. The Rantang Kasih Program of Banyuwangi Regency is a food program for the elderly. This research aims to explain how the implementation of the Rantang Kasih policy/program in Pengatigan Village, Rogojampi District, Banyuwangi Regency. This research uses a qualitative method with a descriptive approach. It was carried out for one month (May) by involving village officials and program target communities as informants, and literature study activities. This research is measured by Merilee S. Grindle's policy implementation theory. The results showed that the implementation of the Rantang Kasih program in Pengatigan Village in the year used funding sources from the Pengatigan Village budget (APBDes). The amount/ration of rantang food is once a day, the food is made from stalls closest to the homes of the elderly program recipients, and delivered by village officials and / or stall managers. The implementation of the Rantang Kasih program in Pengatigan Village has been in accordance with the guidelines regulated through the Regent Regulation.

노인일자리사업 비정규직 담당자의 직무스트레스와 직무소진, 이직의도의 관계

The purpose of this study is to examine the mediating effect of job burnout on therelationship between job stress and turnover intention among non-regular workers in elderlyemployment programs. A survey was conducted on 300 elderly employment program workersin Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province. Among the 285 responses received, the responses of 216 non-regular workers were analyzed using Model 4 in SPSS 25.0 and ProcessMacro v4.2 to verify the mediating effect. The analysis revealed the following: Firstly, jobstress of non-regular workers in elderly employment programs positively influences turnoverintention. Secondly, job stress of non-regular workers in elderly employment programspositively influences job burnout. Thirdly, job burnout of non-regular workers in elderlyemployment programs positively influences turnover intention. Fourthly, job burnout ofnon-regular workers in elderly employment programs was found to partially mediate therelationship between job stress and turnover intention. Based on these results, practical andpolicy suggestions such as developing job stress relief and burnout prevention programs wereproposed.

Gymnastics Assistance for the Independent Elderly: Service in Efforts to Prevent Dementia in Bulak Village, Surabaya

Degenerative diseases are infections that almost occur in old age, with decreased physiological function will have an impact on several chronic diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, osteoarthritis, Alzheimer's, heart disease, kidney failure, therefore, to prevent the occurrence of these diseases it is necessary to strive for promotive, preventive, and rehabilitative measures. One of the efforts made is to carry out community service in the form of assisting the elderly so that they can live independently and have a good quality of life. Community service for Departemen of health Poltekkes Kemenkes Surabaya which was carried out at RW 2 Bulak Village in the form of counseling, health checks, nutrition fulfillment education and elderly gymnastics. The results of counseling education about degenerative diseases and their prevention have shown a 90% good level of understanding, and the elderly have high enthusiasm to participate in gymnastics movements and do health tests. Furthermore, the continuation of this activity is expected to be followed up by improving effective communication between puskesmas officers, elderly cadres so that the elderly program can run optimally

Mammal Aging as a Programmed Life Cycle Function - Resolving the Cause and Effect Conundrum.

Because aging and internally determined lifespan vary greatly between similar species it is now widely accepted that aging is an evolved trait, resulting in two classes of evolutionary aging theories: aging is programmed by complex biological mechanisms, and aging is not programmed. As recently as 2002 programmed aging is thought to be theoretically impossible. However, genetics discoveries, results of selective breeding, and other direct evidence strongly support the idea that aging creates an evolutionary advantage and that therefore complex biological mechanisms evolved that control aging in mammals and other multiparous organisms. Like life-cycle programs that control reproduction, growth, and menopause the aging program can adjust the aging trait during an individual's life to compensate for temporary or local changes in external conditions that alter the optimum lifespan for a particular species population. Genetics discoveries also strongly support the evolvability concept to the effect that sexually reproducing species can evolve design features that increase their ability to evolve, and that aging is one such feature. Genetics discoveries also prove that biological inheritance involves transmission of organism design information in digital form between parent and descendant of any organism. This has major implications for the evolution process.

Hospital Associated Disability among Older Adults with Plasma Cell Disorders Receiving Autologous Stem Cell Transplant

Background: Increasing number of older adults with Plasma Cell Disorders (PCDs) are receiving autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) in the US. Hospital associated disability (HAD) is a common complication associated with acute care hospitalization among older adults. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence and prognostic significance of HAD among older adults with MM undergoing ASCT Study Design: This retrospective cohort study used consecutive adults ≥18y with PCD receiving ASCT at a single institution between 1/2013 and 5/2023. Trained nursing staff assessed Katz Activities of Daily Living (ADL) at admission and every 3 days thereafter under our Virtual Acute Care for Elders program. The primary outcome was development of HAD defined as ≥1 point decline on the Katz Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scale from hospital admission to discharge. We examined the association between putative risk factors such as age, Karnofsky performance status (KPS), baseline ADL score, Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation-specific Comorbidity Index (HCT-CI) and HAD using modified Poisson regression models with robust variance estimators. Subsequently, we studied the impact of HAD on downstream adverse events including 30-day readmission rates and long term survival. Results: We included 778 adults with a median age of 62y (QR 56-68y), with 56% males and 55% non-Hispanic Whites. In the overall population, 112 (14.4%) developed HAD, with much higher incidence among older adults ≥65y compared to those <65y at ASCT (22% vs. 9%, p value<0.01). In multivariable analysis, increasing age (RR 1.56; 95% CI 1.25-1.94, per 10y increase), female sex (RR 1.79; 95% CI 1.27-2.53) and KPS ≤70 (RR 2.55; 95% CI 1.32-4.94) were associated with an increased risk of developing HAD. As compared to those without, patients with HAD had a two-fold higher risk of 30-day readmission (95% CI 1.16-3.39) and a 3.7 fold increased risk of all-cause mortality (95% CI 2.15-6.22). Conclusions: Nearly one in 4 older adults ≥65y developed HAD while undergoing ASCT which was associated with a two-fold increased risk of 30-day readmission. Interventions to prevent HAD and its downstream consequences are critically needed.

Empowering families intervention and elderly groups to reduce the anxiety levels of elderly with diabetes mellitus in Indonesia

Optimal care for elderly individuals with diabetes mellitus requires the involvement of both family members and elderly groups. This research investigated the impact of empowering elderly caregivers and families to provide independent care for individuals with diabetes mellitus and decrease their anxiety levels. The study utilized a quasi-experimental design with a comparison group design involving intervention and comparison groups comprising 128 elderly individuals and 128 families. The HARS questionnaire and researchers' family capability questions were used in a two-month intervention aimed at assisting elderly people with diabetes mellitus to manage their anxiety levels independently. Families in independent care received weekly assistance from elderly individuals and nurses. The intervention given to the elderly and their families in the intervention group was an elderly and family empowerment program for caring for elderly patients with diabetes mellitus. Following the intervention, a post-test was administered to respondents to assess their anxiety levels using the HARS questionnaire, which was analyzed using both independent and dependent T tests. The intervention significantly improved the family's knowledge, attitudes, and skills in caring for the elderly (p = 0.001). The intervention group showed a significant decrease in anxiety levels, as indicated by a p-value of 0.003. In conclusion, empowering families and the elderly group enhances their ability to care for elderly people with diabetes mellitus independently at home and reduces their anxiety levels. This study emphasizes the significance of education and support for families and elderly caregivers in enhancing their caregiving abilities, improving outcomes, and reducing anxiety.

Combating geriatric depression: Pet therapy's revolutionary role and contributions to public health

This study aims to investigate the impact of pet therapy on the treatment of depression in elderly individuals and its implications for public health. The research explores the objective, observations, results, and conclusion, of the study. Research has shown that regular interaction with animals can decrease stress hormone levels among older individuals. Additionally, it promotes the release of hormones such as oxytocin, which are associated with increased positive emotions. The physical activities involved in pet therapy sessions also contribute to the overall physical health of elderly individuals by improving balance, and coordination, and reducing the risk of falls. Furthermore, interaction with animals encourages the use of social skills and helps in reducing social isolation among the elderly. The findings indicate that pet therapy significantly reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety in elderly individuals. The widespread adoption of pet therapy can potentially alleviate the burden on healthcare systems and decrease the reliance on medications, ultimately reducing treatment costs. However, it is essential to prioritize animal hygiene and welfare to ensure the effectiveness and safety of pet therapy practices. Overall, pet therapy presents a promising and innovative approach to addressing depression among the elderly. Existing research highlights its efficacy in reducing depressive symptoms and enhancing the quality of life for older adults. Further research is needed to explore the broader applications of pet therapy and to integrate this approach into elderly care programs. This will help establish pet therapy as a valuable component of holistic geriatric care, ultimately contributing to improved mental health and well-being for the elderly population. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the potential benefits of pet therapy in treating depression among the elderly. By further exploring and integrating pet therapy into elderly care programs, we can enhance the overall mental health and well-being of this population. This research underscores the importance of considering alternative and innovative approaches to address mental health issues in the elderly, ultimately contributing to a healthier and happier aging population.

Vaccines for the Elderly and Vaccination Programs in Europe and the United States.

The share of the elderly population is growing worldwide as life expectancy increases. Immunosenescence and comorbidities increase infectious diseases' morbidity and mortality in older adults. Here, we aimed to summarize the latest findings on vaccines for the elderly against herpes zoster, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19, and pneumococcal disease and to examine vaccine recommendation differences for this age group in Europe and the United States. PubMed was searched using the keywords "elders" and "vaccine" alongside the disease/pathogen in question and paraphrased or synonymous terms. Vaccine recommendations were also sought in the European and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention databases. Improved vaccines, tailored for the elderly, mainly by using novel adjuvants or by increasing antigen concentration, are now available. Significant differences exist between immunization policies, especially between European countries, in terms of the recipient's age, number of doses, vaccination schedule, and implementation (mandatory or recommended). Understanding the factors that influence the immune response to vaccination in the elderly may help to design vaccines that offer long-term protection for this vulnerable age group. A consensus-based strategy in Europe could help to fill the gaps in immunization policy in the elderly, particularly regarding vaccination against RSV and pneumococcus.

Socialization of the Healthy Elderly Program at Posbindu RW 14 Ciwalen Village Garut City District

Socialization of the Healthy Elderly Program at Posbindu RW 14 Ciwalen Village Garut City District

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ELDERLY SYMPATHY PROGRAM IN AN EFFORT TO INCREASE THE WELFARE OF THE ELDERLY IN PAMEKASAN DISTRICT

This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection methods through observation, interviews, and documentation. The aim of this research is to look at the implementation process of the Simpati Elderly Program and the extent to which this program can improve the welfare of the elderly in Pamekasan Regency. The results of this research, if seen from policy implementation, show that the Simpati Elderly program is considered quite good. It's just that this program has shortcomings, such as communication and implementing policies to carry out regular health checks for the elderly. However, recipients of the elderly sympathy program still receive food assistance every day.

노인 재학대 예방 프로그램의 효과성에 대한 연구

This study developed an elder re-abuse prevention program targeting perpetrators and assessed its effectiveness through a mixed-method approach. Thirteen perpetrators participated in eight sessions, and quantitative results revealed positive effects on emotional control and reduction of depressive symptoms. However, no significant change was observed in self-esteem. Qualitative findings indicated notable shifts in perpetrators’ emotions, perceptions, actions, and their relationship with elder abuse victims. The trust relationship with social workers in charge, and the negative conditions of perpetrators emerged as influencing factors for these changes. The results suggest the need for enhanced follow-up monitoring of elder abuse cases, interdisciplinary or multi-systematic interventions based on family systems, and strategic workforce deployment for elder abuse prevention programs.