Age Health Research Articles

The association between osteoporosis and quality of life among older adults in Southern Iran: findings from the Bushehr Elderly Health Program

Background & objectiveOsteoporosis is a growing public health concern, particularly among the aging population. This study aimed to evaluate the association between osteoporosis and quality of life (QoL) in a sample of older adults.MethodsThis cross-sectional study utilized data from all the participants of Bushehr Elderly Health program (BEHP), phase 2. QoL was assessed using the 12-Item Short Form Survey (SF-12 Questionnaire), and participants were classified as having osteoporosis or not based on the WHO diagnostic criteria. The physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component summaries of QoL were estimated. The association between osteoporosis and QoL was evaluated separately for men and women, considering various health and lifestyle factors using linear regression analysis.ResultsThe study included 2,399 participants (average age 71.27 ± 7.36 years). 1,246 were women and 1,153 were men. Osteoporosis was present in 59% of women and 23% of men. Participants with osteoporosis had significantly lower PCS scores compared to those without osteoporosis (women: 38.1 vs. 40.2, p < 0.001; men: 44.3 vs. 45.8, p: 0.002). However, there was no statistically significant difference in MCS scores. Stratified by sex, osteoporosis was significantly associated with PCS in women [β = -2.14 (-3.13, -1.15)] and men [β = -1.53 (-2.52, -0.54)]. After accounting for relevant variables, the association remained significant in women [β=-0.95 (-1.87, -0.03)], but not in men [β=-0.63 (-1.55,0.28)].ConclusionThis study highlights the significant association between osteoporosis and the physical component of QoL in both older men and women, particularly among women. Further research and interventions focusing on enhancing physical QoL in individuals with osteoporosis are warranted to promote healthier aging.

Research Trends and Hot Spots in Telemedicine for the Elderly: A Scientometric Analysis.

As the elderly population rapidly grows, age-related health issues are increasing. Telemedicine helps older adults adapt by providing efficient and accessible health management and medical services. This study employs bibliometric analysis to examine research focus areas, emerging trends, and collaboration networks in telemedicine for older adults over the past three decades. The Web of Science Core Collection served as the primary data source for the publications on telemedicine and the elderly since the database's inception through June 2024. Using CiteSpace.6.2.R4 software, keyword and collaboration network visualizations were generated, including clusters, co-authors, and co-citations. This study analyzed 586 papers from 252 countries or regions, which were published across 246 journals and written by 2750 authors. The analysis revealed three primary research directions encompassing 42 clusters: (1) health literacy and technology adaptation; (2) telemedicine technology and health management; and (3) social interaction and economic impact. Research hotspots include elderly fitness, mobile health, technology acceptance, telemedicine, elderly care, and health literacy. Despite the potential benefit of telemedicine, challenges persist in areas such as technology acceptance, usability, effectiveness, service quality, and privacy concerns. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current research on telemedicine for the elderly and highlights emerging trends in the field.

Beyond the stethoscope: ageism in white coats and resident physicians' preferences for elderly patient care.

The global increase in life expectancy has significantly raised the elderly population. In Türkiye, the proportion of individuals aged 65 and over rose from 8.8% in 2018 to 10.2% in 2023. This demographic shift necessitates the planning of social and health services for the elderly. Ageism affects elderly health negatively and is prevalent in healthcare settings. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ageism among resident physicians at Pamukkale University Hospital and identify factors influencing their preferences for providing healthcare to elderly patients. This cross-sectional study was conducted at Pamukkale University Hospital between 6 June and 16 June, 2024. A total of 448 resident physicians were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, which included sociodemographic information, factors affecting ageism, and the Fraboni Scale of Ageism (FSA). Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used to evaluate factors influencing healthcare preferences. The FSA score averaged 71.89 ± 7.87, indicating a 20.1% (95% CI:16.48-24.10) prevalence of age discrimination among resident physicians. Logistic regression analysis revealed that male participants (odds ratio (OR) = 1.519, P = 0.042), those with moderate to very poor perceived knowledge of elderly health (OR = 2.418, P < 0.001), and higher FSA scores (OR = 1.046, P < 0.001) were more likely to prefer not providing healthcare services to elderly patients. Ageism among resident physicians is prevalent, impacting their willingness to provide care to elderly patients. Gender, perceived knowledge, and ageist attitudes influence their preferences for providing healthcare to elderly patients. Addressing these factors is crucial for improving healthcare services for the elderly.

Neural EGFL like 1 as a novel gene for Trabecular Bone Score in older adults: The Bushehr Elderly Health (BEH) program.

Neural EGFL like 1 (NELL-1), is a secreted glycoprotein and stimulates osteogenic cell differentiation and bone mineralization. This study aimed to explore the relationship between NELL-1 and Trabecular Bone Score (TBS) as a novel tool for the evaluation of osteoporosis in an elderly population-based cohort study in Iran. A single-locus analysis was performed on TBS using data from 2,071 participants in the Bushehr Elderly Health (BEH) Program. The study investigated 376 independent single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the NELL-1 on chromosome 11p15.1. The association between SNPs and the mean TBS L1 to L4 was analyzed through an additive model. Significant variants in the additive model (PFDR<0.05) were further examined within dominant, recessive, over-dominant, and co-dominant models. Multiple linear regression was employed to assess the relationship between the genetic risk score (GRS) derived from significant SNPs and TBS. Three SNPs within the NELL-1 showed a statistically significant association with TBS after adjusting for age and sex. The associations for rs1901945 (β = 0.013, PFDR = 0.0007), rs1584851 (β = -0.011, PFDR = 0.0003), and rs58028601 (β = 0.011, PFDR = 0.0003) were significant in the additive model. Additionally, significant results were observed for rs1901945 and rs58028601 in the dominant model (P<0.05). The GRS showed a statistically significant relationship with TBS, considering adjustments for age, sex, Body Mass Index, type 2 diabetes, and smoking (β = 0.077, P = 1.7×10-5). This study highlights the association of NELL-1 with TBS, underscoring its potential as a candidate for further research and personalized medicine concerning the impact of this gene on bone quality.

The mediating effect of sleep quality on solid cooking fuel use and psychological distress among rural older adults: evidence from Shandong, China

BackgroundExposure to indoor air pollution from solid cooking fuel use may increase mental disorders risk through pathways such as oroxidative stress, neuroinflammation, or cerebrovascular damage. However, few studies have explored the underlying mechanism between solid cooking fuel use and psychological distress. The present study aims to investigate the mediating role of sleep quality on the relationship between solid cooking fuel use and psychological distress among older adults in rural Shandong, China.MethodsThis study used the cross-sectional data from the second follow-up survey of the Shandong Rural Elderly Health Cohort (SREHC). A total of 3,240 rural older adults were included in the analysis. Logistic regression and the Karlson, Holm, and Breen (KHB) mediation analyses were performed to investigate the relationship between solid cooking fuel use and psychological distress, as well as the mediating role of sleep quality in this association.ResultsThis study found that solid cooking fuel use was significantly and positively associated with psychological distress among older adults in rural Shandong, China (OR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.12,1.70). Mediation analysis revealed that sleep quality mediated the association between solid cooking fuel use and psychological distress among older adults (β = 0.06, P = 0.011). The mediation effect accounted for 16.18% of the total effect.ConclusionsOur study showed that solid cooking fuel use was associated with psychological distress among rural older adults, and sleep quality mediated this association. Interventions should focus on addressing cooking fuel types and poor sleep quality to reduce psychological distress. In the future, more aggressive environmental protection policies would be needed to lessen the adverse effects of indoor air pollution on the health of older adults in rural China.

Does contracting family doctor promote primary healthcare utilization among older adults? - evidence from a difference-in-differences analysis

IntroductionIn 2016, the Chinese government officially scaled up family doctor contracted services (FDCS) scheme to guide patients’ health seeking behavior from tertiary hospitals to primary health facilities.MethodsThis study evaluated the overall gate-keeping effects of this scheme on healthcare utilization of rural residents by using a difference-in-differences (DiD) design. The analysis was based on Shandong Rural Elderly Health Cohort 2019 and 2020. Participants who contracted FDCS in second round and were not contracted with a family doctor in the first round were regarded as treatment group. In total, 310 respondents who have used medical care were incorporated for final study.ResultsParticipants who contracted FDCS (treatment group) experienced a significant decline in the mean level of first-contact health-care facilities, decreasing from 2.204 to 1.981. In contrast, participants who did not contract FDCS (control group), showed an increasing trend in the mean level of first-contact health-care facilities, rising from 2.128 to 2.445. Our results showed that contracting FDCS is associated with approximately 0.54 extra lower mean level of first-contact health-care facilities (P = 0.03, 95% CI: -1.03 to 0.05), which suggests an approximately 24.5% reduction in the mean first-contact health-care facility level for participants compared with contracted FDCS than those who did not.ConclusionsThe study suggested primary healthcare quality should be strengthened and restrictive first point of contact policy should be enacted to establish ordered healthcare seeking behavior among rural residents.

Oral health, treatment burden and demographics of elders with care-resistant behavior: A cross-sectional study.

To assess oral health, treatment burden, mortality risk, and demographics in elders with care-resistant behaviors (CRB) in nursing homes (NH) and compare them with those without CRB. 503 participants from eight NH who received dental treatment through a mobile dental clinic were included. Their medical and dental records were screened regarding oral/dental health, treatment history, general health, demographics, and CRB. Statistical analysis was performed to show correlations between CRB and the measured parameters. Data were verified for normal distribution; a point-biserial correlation model was used (95% CI: α=0.05). No correlation was found between CRB and Decayed Missing Filled Teeth (DMF-T) (rpb=-0.061, p=.177), as well as periodontal status (rpb=0.004, p=.946). A negative correlation was observed between CRB and the required number of treatment procedures (rpb=-0.181, p<.0001), time (rpb=-0.118, p=.010), and costs (rpb=-0.100, p=.028). Sex predilection for men regarding CRB was evident (rpb=-0.155, p=.01). No correlation appeared between CRB and vital status (rpb=-0.41, p=.355). Oral health seems to be similar in institutionalized elders with or without CRB. Treatment burden was not elevated, but even reduced in elders with CRB, evincing that few/no treatment procedures were performed in those elders. CRB demonstrated a sex predilection for men. An association between CRB and increased mortality was not evident.

Penerapan Senam Ergonomis Terhadap Penurunan Kadar Asam Urat pada Lansia di Desa Pondok Sukoharjo

Background: Gout is a disease associated with high levels of uric acid in the blood. Apart from the aging process, gout can also occur due to the inhibition of the secretion process and a decrease in the enzyme uricase. The aging process in the elderly causes various health problems, as a result of which they are susceptible to diseases, one of which is an increase in uric acid. Uric acid numbers can be said to be abnormal if &gt;6 mg/dl for women and &gt;7.2 mg/dl for men. Non-pharmacological therapy that can be done is ergonomic exercise. The purpose of this study is to compare measurements of uric acid levels before and after ergonomic exercise. Methods: A case study of 2 respondents was conducted three times a week, with a duration of 19 minutes for each exercise. Results: The application of the two respondents resulted in a significant decrease in uric acid levels; namely, Mrs. S obtained a result of 4.8 mg/dl, while Mrs. T obtained a result of 5 mg/dl. Conclusion: The results of this study concluded that there was a decrease in uric acid levels in both respondents after ergonomic gymnastics.

The Impact of Perceived Community Services for the Elderly on Self-Rated Health: An Analysis Utilizing a Mediated Latent Growth Model.

This study aims to investigate the relationship between older adults' perceived community services for the elderly (PCSE), life satisfaction (LS), and self-rated health (SRH). Data from four rounds of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) from 2008 to 2018 were used. A total of 2454 older adults were obtained. Unconditional Least Squares (ULS) was used to measure PCSE, LS, and SRH growth trajectories without covariates. Finally, a mediating latent growth model was constructed using Mplus 8.3 to examine the mediating role of LS in the relationship between PCSE and SRH after adjusting for some demographic characteristics. The results from the ULS method indicate that the intercepts and slopes for PCSE and LS are significantly negatively correlated (β 1 = -0.629, β 2 = -0.579, p < 0.001). Additionally, there is a significant positive correlation between the intercept and slope of health levels (β = 0.774, p < 0.001). Using a parallel growth model, significant regression coefficients were found between the intercept of PCSE and the intercepts of SRH and LS (β 1 = -0.335, β 2 = 0.378, p < 0.01). Similarly, the regression coefficients between the slope of PCSE and the slopes of SRH and LS were also significant (β 1 = -0.532, β 2 = 0.344, p < 0.01). Furthermore, the regression coefficient between the intercept of LS and the intercept of SRH was significant (β = 0.415, p < 0.001). The regression coefficient between the slope of LS and the slope of SRH was also found to be significant (β = 0.729, p < 0.001). It is essential to ensure adequate supply and accessibility of community services for older adults. LS especially is, and should be a promising target for assessing the quality of life and utilization of PCSE supply.

Perceptions and Potential of Integrating Elderly Schools and Complementary Therapy for Enhanced Basic Health Services

The aging global population necessitates tailored health services for the elderly. Complementary therapies, such as acupressure and exercise, have shown promise in addressing elderly health needs. Integrating these therapies with elderly schools, community centers offering tailored programs, presents a holistic healthcare approach. This research aims to assess elderly perceptions and potential benefits of integrating elderly schools and complementary therapies. It explores awareness levels, acceptance, implementation barriers, and perceived impacts on overall well-being. The study provides crucial evidence for policymakers and practitioners to enhance basic health services for the elderly. A descriptive survey method was employed, utilizing self-administered questionnaires. Closed-ended Likert scale questions gauged perceptions, while open-ended questions captured qualitative insights. The sample comprised individuals aged 60 and above, drawn from elderly school attendees and complementary therapy users. Survey results indicate positive perceptions toward integration, with approximately 85% of respondents expressing favorable views. Participants believe that combining educational programs with complementary therapies could enhance physical health (76%), mental health (68%), and stress management (82%). Open-ended responses provided nuanced insights, highlighting personal transformations and concerns related to cost and accessibility. The majority of respondents perceive the integration positively, supporting theoretical frameworks emphasizing benefits. Qualitative data enriches the understanding of participants' experiences. While acknowledging limitations, such as the cross-sectional nature and potential bias, this research provides valuable knowledge. It suggests that integrating elderly schools and complementary therapy holds promise in promoting holistic healthcare, contributing to healthy aging and improved quality of life for the elderly.

Renewable Energy and Sustainability Convergence

The change to renewable energy in the development of senior citizens homes is crucial as professionals in the built environment and organizations are getting more conscious of environmental conservation. The need to cut energy billing costs, raising energy efficiency, and emit little or no greenhouse gases known to be dangerous to human living makes this very imperative. Solar, wind, and geothermal energy sources are gaining ground. This study seeks to examine the benefits of incorporating renewable energy in housing facilities that accommodate senior citizens. The survey research design, employing qualitative and quantitative data from respondents, was analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential analysis. The study revealed that structures integrated with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, solar panels and wind power can reduce dependence on conventional power systems, having a notable positive influence on the greenhouse effect through a reduction in the emission of greenhouse gases, providing satisfactory indoor conditions to have a positive impact on elderly health. Favourable government policies and regulations in terms of subsidies, grants and regulation enforcement of regulations would help greatly. The research concluded that in addition to improving the quality of care for elderly residents, the generation of renewable energy promotes the concept of sustainability.

The Effect of Elderly Health Status on Life Satisfaction: Sequential Mediating Effects of Social Participation Activities and Information Technology Utilization Ability

The Effect of Elderly Health Status on Life Satisfaction: Sequential Mediating Effects of Social Participation Activities and Information Technology Utilization Ability

Elderly Golden Age School (EGAS): a strategy to promote health and prosperity elderly in Indonesia

Most elderly citizens face health problems and difficulties although they are economically productive and independent. This study developed a prototype for promoting health and prosperity within the Elderly Golden Age School (EGAS) for ageing populations. EGAS activity is also one of the health counseling activities regarding seven dimensions of robust elderly (spiritual, physical health, emotional health, intellectual capabilities, social activities, vocational activities, and living environment). The quantitative data were collected using a validated questionnaire, which was administered to 60 elderly respondents. Qualitative data were also obtained, using focus group discussions (FGD) and interviews. Chi-square analysis was utilized to analyze the quantitative data while simple descriptive methods were applied for the qualitative data. Results showed there was no statistically significant association between any of the seven dimensions and acceptance of the EGAS, except the environmental. It was constituted by existing support systems, including program management of the region, sub-district, and village. Elderly education, health services, and community empowerment must all be promoted. The local government should objectify the program and activities of the EGAS.

Identification of the molecular link: STAT3 is a shared key gene linking postmenopausal osteoporosis and sarcopenia.

This study explored the shared genetic traits and molecular interactions between postmenopausal osteoporosis (POMP) and sarcopenia, both of which substantially degrade elderly health and quality of life. We hypothesized that these motor system diseases overlap in pathophysiology and regulatory mechanisms. We analyzed microarray data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), machine learning, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis to identify common genetic factors between POMP and sarcopenia. Further validation was done via differential gene expression in a new cohort. Single-cell analysis identified high expression cell subsets, with mononuclear macrophages in osteoporosis and muscle stem cells in sarcopenia, among others. A competitive endogenous RNA network suggested regulatory elements for these genes. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) was notably expressed in both conditions. Single-cell analysis pinpointed specific cells with high STAT3 expression, and microRNA (miRNA)-125a-5p emerged as a potential regulator. Experiments confirmed the crucial role of STAT3 in osteoclast differentiation and muscle proliferation. STAT3 has emerged as a key gene in both POMP and sarcopenia. This insight positions STAT3 as a potential common therapeutic target, possibly improving management strategies for these age-related diseases.

Research on the Reform Path of the Curriculum of Elderly Health Care in Vocational Colleges

Research on the Reform Path of the Curriculum of Elderly Health Care in Vocational Colleges

Empowering Ageing with Ingenuity: A Scoping Review on the Methods and Technologies Used into Elderly Health Monitoring.

With the rise in global life expectancy, ensuring healthier aging experiences for the older population becomes paramount. This scoping review delves into the technologies employed in the remote health monitoring of the elderly over the past 15 years. Exploring the concept of "Healthy Ageing" as proposed by the World Health Organization, this paper attempts to highlight the techniques and technologies used in health monitoring of the elderly population. The integration of wearable sensors in health monitoring presents promising avenues for enhancing healthcare delivery to older adults. However, challenges such as limited digital literacy and privacy concerns persist, necessitating innovative solutions for unobtrusive monitoring. This paper discusses the potential of passive and ambient sensors to address these challenges, offering insights into enhancing the well-being of the older population while preserving their independence and privacy.

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.

Biopsychosocial factors of depression among community-dwelling geriatric population with low perceived social support; a population-based study

BackgroundAlthough significant and disabling consequences are presented due to geriatric population-related depression, an insufficient comprehension of various biological, psychological, and social factors affecting this issue has been observed. Notably, these factors can contribute to geriatric population-related depression with low social support. This study aimed to identify factors associated with depression among the community-dwelling geriatric population with low social support in Malaysia.MethodsThis study used secondary data from a population-based health survey in Malaysia, namely the National Health Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2018: Elderly Health. The analysis included 926 community-dwelling geriatric population aged 60 and above with low social support. The primary data collection was from August to October 2018, using face-to-face interviews. This paper reported the analysis of depression as the dependent variable, while various biological, psychological and social factors, guided by established biopsychosocial models, were the independent variables. Multiple logistic regression was applied to identify the factors. Analysis was performed using the complex sampling module in the IBM SPSS version 29.ResultsThe weighted prevalence of depression among the community-dwelling geriatric population aged 60 and above with low social support was 22.5% (95% CI: 17.3–28.7). This was significantly higher than depression among the general geriatric Malaysian population. The factors associated with depression were being single, as compared to those married (aOR 2.010, 95% CI: 1.063–3.803, p: 0.031), having dementia, as opposed to the absence of the disease (aOR 3.717, 95% CI: 1.544–8.888, p: 0.003), and having a visual disability, as compared to regular visions (aOR 3.462, 95% CI: 1.504–7.972, p: 0.004). The analysis also revealed that a one-unit increase in control in life and self-realisation scores were associated with a 32.6% (aOR: 0.674, 95% CI: 0.599–0.759, p < 0.001) and 24.7% (aOR: 0.753, 95% CI: 0.671–0.846, p < 0.001) decrease in the likelihood of developing depression, respectively.ConclusionThis study suggested that conducting depression screenings for the geriatric population with low social support could potentially prevent or improve the management of depression. The outcome could be achieved by considering the identified risk factors while implementing social activities, which enhanced control and self-fulfilment.

Hearing Loss and Cognitive Impairment Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults - Liaoning, Henan, and Guangdong Provinces, China, 2019-2020.

Many studies have shown that hearing loss (HL) is a risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia, but there are still limited studies on this association among Chinese older adults. Based on the results of pure-tone audiometry tests, HL is associated with cognitive impairment in community-dwelling older adults. The odds ratios (ORs) were 1.23 (1.08-1.40) for mild HL, 1.55 (1.32-1.82) for moderate HL, and 1.87 (1.47-2.39) for severe or profound HL. Enhanced public awareness of hearing protection is important for preventing cognitive impairment. It is advocated to promote the screening of HL and cognitive function assessment in elderly health examinations or management in primary care services.

Effect of vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on anxiety and sleep disturbances among elderly health care workers in the post COVID-19 pandemic.

Healthcare workers (HCWs) have been significantly impacted by the pandemic. Elderly health care workers carry out a variety of duties at work and have years of clinical expertise. Anxiety and insomnia are among the more commonly encountered problems in senior physicians and other geriatric medical professional populations. The study aims to determine the effect of vagal nerve stimulation on anxiety and sleep disturbances among geriatric medical professionals. 42 participants were enrolled in this study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The participants were divided into two groups using the closed envelope approach, and they took part in therapy sessions lasting 30 minutes, three times per week for a period of four weeks. The Experimental group A received non-invasive transcutaneous auricular vagal nerve stimulation (taVNS) and Control group A received Jacobson's progressive muscle relaxation technique. With a p value of 0.001, taVNS stimulation significantly improved sleep quality and reduced anxiety after 4 weeks. The post-intervention assessment revealed a highly significant improvement in Group A, with a T value of 251 (p < 0.001). The findings suggest that taVNS may be an effective intervention for addressing anxiety and sleep issues in geriatric medical professionals. These results contribute to the exploration of non-invasive strategies to enhance the well-being of healthcare professionals working in demanding environments.