Social support, self-care agency and self-care behaviors among pregnant women in Thai Binh, Vietnam: A cross-sectional analysis.

Social support is positively associated with quality of life (QoL) in autistic people, yet almost all evidence is cross-sectional and focused on younger adults. We examined 2-year longitudinal survey data from 209 autistic adults aged ⩾40 years living in the United States, all recruited via the Research Match service of Simons Powering Autism Research for Knowledge. Participants self-reported their general QoL, autism-specific QoL, and social support (subjective support, instrumental support, and social interaction). Cross-lagged panel models tested bidirectional associations. Mean scores increased from Time 1 to Time 2 for the general QoL and autism-specific QoL, while social support was mostly stable. Higher baseline general QoL predicted greater subjective support later, whereas baseline subjective support did not predict later general QoL. A reciprocal relationship emerged between autism-specific QoL and subjective support. Unexpectedly, baseline instrumental support predicted lower subsequent general QoL. Among autistic adults in mid-to-later life, QoL appears to drive subsequent social support more strongly than support drives QoL, with the clearest reciprocity observed for autism-specific QoL and subjective support. Future multiwave studies with more diverse samples are needed to chart long-term trajectories and determine how tailored support can optimize aging outcomes in individuals with autism.Lay AbstractWe know little about how autistic people's perceived social support and quality of life (QoL) influence each other as they age. We surveyed 209 40+-year-old autistic adults living in the United States at two timepoints 2 years apart. They answered questions about their general QoL, QoL specific to their autistic experiences, and three types of social support (subjective support, instrumental support, and social interaction). The first survey was in late 2019/early 2020, and the second was 2 years later - late 2021/early 2022. We found that, on average, middle-aged and older autistic adults reported better QoL after 2 years, while the amount of practical help and the number of social interactions did not change. People who started out with better QoL reported more subjective support later. Reporting better autism-specific QoL at the beginning led to more emotional and practical support later and vice versa - feeling well-supported emotionally initially led to better autism-specific QoL later. Surprisingly, getting more initial practical support was linked to lower overall QoL 2 years later. Our results suggest that helping autistic adults feel comfortable with their identity, manage sensory needs, and navigate services may not only improve their QoL but also strengthen the emotional and practical support they receive from others. Practical help is still important, but it should match the person's goals and preferences, so that it boosts, rather than harms, life satisfaction. Programs that check in regularly about changing needs, especially around significant life events like retirement or health changes, could make a real difference as autistic adults grow older.

With the trend of population ageing, cognitive frailty in older adults is an increasingly pressing public health issue. Identifying early-stage risk factors has become a key priority for researchers with the goal of preventing disability. This study aimed to test a conceptual model and elucidate the pathways leading to cognitive frailty using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). We conducted a cross-sectional design with data from outpatient departments within a tertiary medical centre in southern Taiwan. Participants (n = 208) were aged 65 years or older and able to communicate independently with the researchers. Demographic factors, extant health conditions, and psychosocial factors were collected. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to construct a path model. Olfactory function was significantly positively correlated with nutritional status and significantly negatively correlated with depressive symptoms, resilience, and cognitive frailty. Nutritional status was significantly negatively correlated with sarcopenia. Resilience was significantly positively correlated with social support but negatively correlated with sarcopenia. Sarcopenia was significantly positively correlated with cognitive frailty. Social support was significantly negatively correlated with cognitive frailty. Despite these associations, in this model, only one specific serial indirect pathway-via resilience and social support-demonstrated a statistically significant mediating effect between olfactory function and cognitive frailty. The findings suggest that the association between olfactory function and cognitive frailty may involve a limited, pathway-specific serial mediation through resilience and social support. Clinically, this pathway may help to inform the early identification of older adults with olfactory impairment who may benefit from targeted supportive strategies aimed at strengthening resilience and social support.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of perceived social support on newborn hygienic care and breastfeeding intentions in primigravid pregnancies. This study had a descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational design. The study was conducted with 360 primigravid pregnant women who visited the Obstetrics Outpatient Clinic of a university hospital in Türkiye. A Descriptive Information Form, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Scale of Readiness for the Hygienic Care of the Newborn, and the Infant Feeding Intentions Scale were used to collect data. The relationships between scale scores were examined using Pearson's correlation analysis. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the effects of perceived social support on newborn hygienic care and breastfeeding intention. The mean total scores of the participants were 70.72 ± 14.04 (min: 12, max: 87) on the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, 55.71 ± 14.22 (min: 10, max: 70) on the Scale of Readiness for the Hygienic Care of the Newborn, and 6.95 ± 1.36 (min: 0, max: 9.5) on the Infant Feeding Intentions Scale. It was determined that the participants who were working, those whose babies were female, those who wanted to receive information about infant care, and those with high Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support scores were more prepared for the hygienic care of their newborns (p < 0.001). The Infant Feeding Intentions Scale scores of the participants were significantly associated with their working status, status of wanting to receive information about infant care, and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support scores (p < 0.001). As the perceived social support levels of primigravid pregnant women increased, their readiness for the hygienic care of their newborns and their intentions to breastfeed their newborns also increased. This study provides insights into antenatal care planning by holistically addressing social support systems, newborn hygienic care readiness, and breastfeeding intentions in a primigravid sample. Therefore, health professionals may consider evaluating the social support systems of pregnant women, strengthening their social support systems during the care process, and providing the necessary professional support.

Examining the association between social appearance anxiety and perceived social support in adolescents with butane explosion-induced burns.

The benefits of social connections for well-being are often assumed, yet few studies test whether social support predicts mental health over extended periods nor whether these effects are experienced equally across women and men. We address this gap by examining gender differences in the longitudinal associations between perceived social support and psychological distress using 14 annual waves of a nationwide panel study (N = 75,404; 62.1% women). Multigroup random intercept cross-lagged panel modelling revealed that within-person increases in perceived social support predicted subsequent declines in psychological distress over time for both women and men. However, this relationship was bidirectional, and the negative within-person effects of psychological distress on perceived social support were stronger than the effects of perceived social support on psychological distress among men (but not women). Analyses exploring gender interactions with age, sexual identity and ethnicity revealed that the effects of psychological distress were strongest among older, New Zealand European and heterosexual men. These results suggest that men's psychological distress leads to decreased perceptions of social support from others in their lives, and this effect is more pronounced than the effect of social support over the same timeframe. The implications for health interventions are discussed.

Oral diseases are affecting over 3.5 billion people globally, but they are largely preventable. Regular oral health examinations (OHEs) help detect early signs of dental and systemic diseases, yet many individuals fail to seek OHE due to factors like cost and lack of awareness. This study explores the factors influencing individuals' intention to undergo OHE using the Health Belief Model (HBM) and social support theory. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in January 2024 with 807 participants from Minhang District. Questionnaires assessed sociodemographic characteristics, health beliefs, and perceived social support. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted to evaluate the factor structure of the HBM scale, and hierarchical multiple regression was employed to identify predictors of participants' intention to undergo OHE. Sociodemographic factors such as gender, education, income, and health insurance status significantly influenced OHE intention. Perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cues to action, and family social support were key predictors. The integrated model combining HBM and social support theory effectively explained individuals' intention to undergo OHE. These findings highlight the importance of raising awareness, reducing barriers, and utilizing family support to encourage preventive oral care. In addition, government efforts should focus on incorporating OHEs into routine health examination programs to ensure institutional support for preventive care.

Postpartum pain, a common symptom after a cesarean birth, is influenced by psychosocial factors. This exploratory qualitative study examined patient perspectives on social support and healthcare communication behaviors in the postpartum setting in relation to the pain experience. In-depth, semi-structured, qualitative interviews about postpartum pain experiences were conducted 2-3 days and 2-6 weeks postpartum with individuals who underwent a cesarean birth (2020-2021). Data were analyzed using the constant comparative method. Among 49 postpartum individuals, themes related to social support and healthcare communication were identified in relation to postpartum pain. Participants discussed the impact of non-healthcare social support (e.g., partners, extended family, other children) on postpartum pain, highlighting emotional and practical assistance. Most commonly mentioned were the positive impacts of emotional and logistical support with household activities and childcare on postpartum pain recovery. The second theme covered individuals' views on how healthcare support and communication affected postpartum pain, with themes of both positive and negative experiences. Some participants discussed positive experiences of shared decision-making and responsiveness of the healthcare team, whereas others recounted negative experiences of lack of counseling and poor outpatient communication. Social support and healthcare communication are integral influences on pain recovery after a cesarean birth. These findings highlight the need for interventions to address psychosocial support and healthcare team communication in the immediate postpartum period.

Longitudinal assessment following the self-management for people with epilepsy and a history of negative health events (SMART) intervention: An exploratory analysis.

To examine the impact of sociodemographic factors on the self-care ability of registered nurses (RNs) in a publicly funded hospital, guided by Orem's Self-Care Framework. Self-care is essential for nurses' well-being and performance. Understanding sociodemographic factors affecting self-care provides a basis for targeted interventions. A cross-sectional study surveyed 279 RNs using the Exercise of Self-Care Agency (ESCA) scale and a sociodemographic questionnaire. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and regression, identified significant predictors. The study highlights significant relationships between sociodemographic variables and self-care abilities. Age (P = 0.02), ethnicity (P = 0.005), shift type (P = 0.03), work unit (P = 0.005), income (P = 0.041), financial situation (P < 0.001), and social support (P < 0.001) were critical determinants of self-care. Some sociodemographic factors influence self-care ability. Addressing financial stability, social support, ethnicity, and work conditions may be essential to promote nurses' well-being and ensure workforce sustainability.

Social support through shared experiences: An exploratory analysis of various manifestations, reasons, and outcomes of implant patients interacting with other patients

Achieving long-term behavioural change in chronic disease management, particularly in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), remains a significant challenge. Although maintenance programmes have been developed to extend the benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation, patient adherence is often comperomised by persistent symptoms, low motivation, and fragmented care. Research highlights the importance of therapeutic alliance, social support, and personalised follow-up to encourage long-term healthy behaviour. Care managers (CMs) may help facilitate these key elements by providing individualised support and coordination. The aim of this study is to identify key elements that support the sustainable implementation of the CM role in chronic care pathways, by exploring the shared experiences of COPD patients and CM involved in an 18-month remote follow-up post-rehabilitation programme. A qualitative descriptive study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with COPD patients and care managers who participated in the INSPIR'ACTION national experiment. This programme included an initial pulmonary rehabilitation phase followed by an 18-month remote follow-up. Interviews focused on the follow-up phase and were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Data saturation was reached with a final sample of 9 patients and 7 CMs. Patients described CMs as supportive professionals who helped sustain motivation, adherence to healthy behaviours, and continuity of care. The relationship was perceived as trustful and personalised, even in a remote format. CMs expressed pride in their role but also reported organisational challenges, including lack of recognition and insufficient time allocation. Both groups emphasised the importance of relational continuity and individualised support. Patients and care managers described the CM as a key supportive figure offering personalised follow-up perceived as helping promote therapeutic engagement and behavioural change. Relational continuity throughout the remote follow-up was seen as fostering a trusting relationship that shaped participants' experience of the programme. By highlighting organisational elements that could influence implementation, our study may help inform future strategies to enhance the sustainable integration of care management in COPD care pathway. COPD patients and CMs involved in the INSPIR'ACTION programme shared their experiences through interviews, helping to identify key factors for improving care manager support and long-term follow-up. Their input directly informed the study's findings and recommendations.

Promoting physical activity engagement in rural pregnant persons in the United States: a qualitative study.

Implementation factors influencing utilisation of Seniors Exercise Parks: A community stakeholder qualitative study

Formal social support from healthcare professionals is critical in facilitating the transition to parenthood and may contribute to parental self-efficacy. However, its association with parent-infant bonding remains unclear, and evidence to guide clinical practice is scarce, especially during the postpartum hospital stay. This study aimed to (a) explore associations between formal social support during the postpartum stay, parenting self-efficacy, and parent-infant bonding; and (b) investigate the role of depressive symptoms and other confounding factors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from April 2023 to August 2024 in five hospitals in French-speaking Switzerland. 420 first-time parents (298 mothers and 122 partners). First-time mothers and co-parents completed a cross-sectional survey. Variables were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Birth Satisfaction Scale-Revised, the FOCUS-Postpartum Scale, the Perinatal Infant Care Social Support Scale, the Parenting Expectations Survey, and the Mother-Infant Bonding Scale. Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and regression analyses were performed. A total of 298 mothers and 122 partners answered the survey. Parents reported low satisfaction with the information received during the postpartum hospital stay. In bivariate analyses, formal social support was positively associated with maternal self-efficacy (rho = 0.18, p = 0.004) but not with partners' self-efficacy (rho= -0.07, p = 0.45) or parent-infant bonding. After adjustment for confounding factors, the association between formal social support and maternal self-efficacy was no longer significant. In the maternal regression model, satisfaction with informal general support was significantly associated with maternal self-efficacy (β = 0.62, p = 0.002). Non-exclusive breastfeeding was associated with higher maternal bonding difficulties (β = 0.34, p = 0.008). Partners with a secondary education level reported lower parenting self-efficacy (β = -35.49, p = 0.005) and lower bonding quality (β = 0.7, p = 0.019) than those with an apprenticeship education. Depressive symptoms were negatively associated with parental self-efficacy (mothers β = -2.44, p = 0.015; partners β = -4.57, p < 0.001) and bonding (mothers β = 0.08, p < 0.001; partners β = 0.07, p = 0.002). Higher satisfaction with informal support was linked to maternal self-efficacy, while depressive symptoms consistently undermined both parental self-efficacy and bonding for both parents. Together with parents' low satisfaction with information received, these findings underscore the need for tailored support and the importance of clear and consistent communication from healthcare professionals for both mothers and partners.

Breaking free from single-use plastics: The power of policy, social support, and culture

Spouses and children are central to caregiving and social support in later life. Yet, changing family relationships, and the rising trend of kinlessness - defined as lacking a partner and living children - can impact health in later life. However, how the absence of family ties relates to loneliness among older adults in varying care settings remains unclear. This study uses two national samples of older Australians (aged 65+): i) four waves of the Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) (2019 2022, N = 11,074 person-wave observations) comprising community-dwelling individuals, and ii) the Australian Survey on Social Isolation and Loneliness in Empowering Care in Later Life (AUSSIE) (2023-2024, N = 479), capturing people receiving long-term care support (in a care facility or in their homes). Family ties were categorized as: (1) having partner and children (reference), (2) partner only, (3) child(ren) only, or (4) kinless. Loneliness was measured using logged scores (HILDA) and the UCLA scale (≥ 6 as severe). Fixed effects models revealed that transitions to limited family ties increased loneliness among community-dwelling adults, with partner only status showing the strongest association. Logistic regressions showed that kinless and child(ren)-only status were associated with heightened likelihood of severe loneliness among long-term care recipients. Care setting did not moderate these associations; formal care does not buffer loneliness from limited family ties. Limited family ties consistently increase loneliness risk across care contexts, though patterns vary by setting. Results underscore the need for interventions addressing loneliness with limited family ties across care settings.

Social touch-like tactile stimulation alleviates stress-induced anxiety-like behavior by enhancing the oxytocin level in the prefrontal cortex.

Healthmaking in the past: Using the social determinants of health in paleopathology.

Globally, in 2020, less than one-third of individuals with psychosis accessed mental health services. These services are essential for reducing distress and burden, improving symptoms, and preventing adverse outcomes. However, people may not benefit from these services if they do not seek help. Factors contributing to the help-seeking remain poorly understood in South and Southeast Asia, regions with a majority of low- and middle-income countries. We aimed to synthesise evidence reporting the views and experiences of key stakeholders towards help-seeking for psychosis in these regions. This is the first review in this topic area to employ a multiple-perspective approach and to focus on the understudied regions. The PRISMA checklist guided reporting. We systematically searched primary qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method research in bibliographic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, ASSIA, Scopus, and PQDT Global), from inception to March 2025. Each article was independently screened by two reviewers. Eligible articles were extracted and synthesised using narrative synthesis, with JBI checklists utilised for methodological quality assessments. We included 57 studies published across 62 articles, 80% of which were rated as moderate or low quality. We inductively developed five themes, comprising 11 subthemes, which highlighted factors influencing and experiences of help-seeking across multiple stakeholders, including perceptions of problems, service quality, stigma, structural circumstances, and social support. Carers' perspectives were dominant and differed slightly from those of service users in their perceptions of problems, suggesting the value of more widely adopting a multiple-perspective approach in help-seeking research.