Well-being Of Adults Research Articles

The Interplay of Financial Literacy on the Financial Behavior and Well-being of Young Adults: Evidence from Nigeria

The financial stability of young adults worldwide is under threat due to widespread impulsive online purchasing and the economic strain brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study, therefore, examines the role of financial literacy as a mediator between financial behavior and the financial well-being of young adults, specifically in Nigeria. The research involved 120 respondents, 60 undergraduate and 60 postgraduate students from three selected universities in Western Nigeria. Information was gathered through a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using Structured Equation Modeling with STATA version 15. The findings reveal a positive association between financial behavior and financial well-being, although this relationship lacks statistical significance. However, significant positive correlations are observed between financial literacy (FL) and financial well-being (FW), as well as between financial behavior (FB) and financial literacy (FL). Furthermore, the analysis uncovers a positive indirect effect of financial literacy on the relationship between financial behavior and financial well-being. This suggests that while the direct link between financial behavior and well-being may be weak, improved financial behavior can indirectly enhance well-being through heightened financial literacy. In essence, the study underscores the crucial role of financial literacy in improving young adults’ financial behaviors and well-being. By investing in education, support services, and policies that encourage positive financial behaviors, both individuals and policymakers can collaborate toward constructing a more financially secure future for the younger generation.

Unveiling health disparities and assessing well-being of older adults in China’s aging society: The socioeconomic nexus

With China’s population aging rapidly, the challenge of preserving and enhancing the health of its older citizens has gained paramount importance. Leveraging data from the fourth wave of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, this study examines the relationship between socioeconomic status and well-being of older adults in the context of China’s evolving demographic landscape. Empirical analysis reveals compelling statistical evidence that underscores the significant influence of socioeconomic status on the health outcomes of older adults. Notably, socioeconomic factors such as education level, place of residence, household registration (hukou [户口]) type, and Communist Party of China membership significantly affect the mental and cognitive well-being of older adults, with a more pronounced impact on mental health. These findings emphasize the need for targeted policies to address disparities and promote holistic well-being as China grapples with an aging population.

Existing Digital Health Technology Index Summary Report for Older Adults Living with Neurocognitive Disorders (Mild and Major) and Their Informal Caregivers: An Environmental Scan.

Digital health has added numerous promising solutions to enhance the health and wellness of people with neurocognitive disorders (NCDs) and their informal caregivers. (1) Background: It is important to obtain a comprehensive view of currently available technologies, their outcomes, and conditions of success to inform recommendations regarding digital health solutions for people with NCDs and their caregivers. This environmental scan was performed to identify the features of existing digital health solutions relevant to the targeted population. This work reviews currently available digital health solutions and their related characteristics to develop a decision support tool for older adults living with mild or major neurocognitive disorders and their informal caregivers. This knowledge will aid the development of a decision support tool to assist older adults and their informal caregivers in their search for adequate digital health solutions according to their needs and preferences based on trustable information. (2) Methods: We conducted an environmental scan to identify digital health solutions from a systematic review and targeted searches in the grey literature covering the regions of Canada and Europe. Technological tools were scanned based on a preformatted extraction grid. We assessed their relevance based on selected attributes and summarized the findings. (3) Results: We identified 100 available digital health solutions. The majority (56%) were not specific to NCDs. Only 28% provided scientific evidence of their effectiveness. Remote patient care, movement tracking, and cognitive exercises were the most common purposes of digital health solutions. Most solutions were presented as decision aid tools, pill dispensers, apps, web, or a combination of these platforms. (4) Conclusions: This environmental scan allowed for identifying current digital health solutions for older adults with mild or major neurocognitive disorders and their informal caregivers. Findings from the environmental scan highlight the need for additional approaches to strengthen digital health interventions for the well-being of older adults with mild and major NCDs and their informal and formal healthcare providers.

Social ties and social identification: Influences on well-being in young adults.

Research highlights the positive impact of social connectedness on subjective well-being. In this paper, we test a model in which an identity-based mechanism links a structural form of connectedness (significant social ties) with two psychological well-being outcomes, life satisfaction and self-esteem. Using data from the LIVES Longitudinal Lausanne Youth Study (LIVES-LOLYS, N = 422), a longitudinal mediation path model tests direct and indirect effects, via the strength of social identification, of the number of significant social ties in two life domains (friends and family) on life satisfaction and self-esteem. Results showed positive associations between the number of significant ties and social identification in the concordant domain, empirically linking the structural and subjective forms of social connectedness. Moreover, our model displays significant indirect effects in the friend domain, but not in the family domain. Having more friends as significant social ties predicted higher social identification with friends, and this was longitudinally associated with higher life satisfaction and self-esteem. Findings show a new mechanism linking structural and subjective forms of social connectedness, unpacking their concerted impact in protecting well-being. The differences between the friend and family domains are discussed in the framework of both life-course and social identity perspectives.

COVID-19 and older people’s wellbeing in northern KwaZulu-Natal – the importance of relationships

Background The COVID-19 pandemic and the non-pharmacological prevention methods have affected the wellbeing of older people. In this paper we focus on the wellbeing, and vulnerability, of older people in rural northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa during the first year of the pandemic. Methods We conducted monthly in-depth interviews for up to four months with 26 people aged 57 years and older. A total of 86 interviews were conducted by telephone, because of restrictions on face-to-face contact, and digitally recorded. After transcription and translation, the data were coded thematically, with analysis guided by a wellbeing theoretical framework. Results Having access to food, to healthcare and to somewhere they felt safe to stay, was essential for everyone. For many managing expenses became more of a struggle as adult children who had lost their source of employment came home to stay. However, despite the shortages of money, the importance of relationships, whether they are familial or the close community of neighbours, was highlighted in the accounts of many participants. Older people not only got help with day-to-day life from others, but also found solace in the company of others. The sense of community, from family and neighbours, helped to ease some of the stress experienced because of the lockdowns. Conclusions The COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions imposed to limit the spread of the virus impacted the wellbeing of older adults in rural KwaZulu-Natal. Our findings show how the importance of relationships with family and friends contributed to nurturing wellbeing for older people.

Assessing the risks associated with indoor and outdoor air quality in relation to the geographic placement of nursing home

Indoor air quality significantly impacts the well-being and health of elderly residents in nursing homes. This study was conducted to explore the connection between indoor and outdoor PM (Particulate Matter) concentrations in nursing homes and their association with the facilities' location and construction characteristics. The findings revealed that indoor PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations ranged from 0.2 to 124 μg/m3 and 2–188.4 μg/m3, respectively, which were approximately 12.67 and 1.25 times higher than their outdoor counterparts. A strong correlation (P < 0.05) was identified between indoor PM levels and various factors, including proximity to parks, passenger terminals, and gas stations, as well as building attributes such as single-glazed windows, ceramic floor coverings, and the use of radiators. The risk assessment indicated that carcinogenic risk factors were well within acceptable limits for all nursing homes. However, it's important to note that certain PM components, particularly polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), may have long-term adverse effects on the health of nursing home residents. Even though indoor PM levels met the standards established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) for particulate matter risk assessments, the study emphasized that even low levels of indoor air pollutants can affect the health and well-being of older adults, particularly considering the increased vulnerability associated with aging. Consequently, the study underscores the importance of nursing home location selection and the regular monitoring of particulate matter concentrations. These measures are essential for enhancing air quality within nursing homes, ultimately contributing to the improved well-being and health of their residents.

The Impact of COVID-19 Lockdowns on Adult Mental Health

Background Lockdowns and restrictions were introduced worldwide by governments in 2020 and 2021 in a bid to contain the spread of COVID-19. Lockdowns restricted the movement of people, whereby they could only leave their homes for essential reasons. There is yet to be a systematic review that integrates existing quantitative literature on the impact of lockdowns on mental health globally. Aim The purpose of the current study was to assess and synthesise current quantitative research on the global impact of COVID-19 lockdowns and isolation restrictions on adult mental wellbeing. The target group was adults aged 18 years and over internationally. Method Findings from 16 quantitative cross-sectional surveys and questionnaire studies from peer-reviewed journals were synthesised in this systematic literature review. Results Themes that emerged from the findings included increased depression, anxiety symptoms, and stress, and reduced social interaction and sleep quality. Conclusion The impact of COVID-19 lockdowns on mental health was evident through the shared experiences of insomnia, loneliness, physiological changes, and reduced sleep quality. An increased prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms was common in younger adults and more so in women than men.

Working Through It: Lifetime Experiences of Employment Discrimination Among Older Black Americans and Implications for Labor Force Participation, Job Dissatisfaction, and Mental Health in Older Adulthood.

To examine lifetime experiences of employment discrimination and their association with Black older adults' employment status and well-being. We use data from the Health and Retirement Study's leave-behind questionnaire to characterize lifetime experiences of being unfairly fired, not hired, or not promoted among Black older adults (N = 2948) and test associations with labor force status at age 62, job satisfaction among those working, and depressive symptoms. Employment discrimination was commonly reported by Black older adults, especially among men and those with college educations. Employment discrimination was not associated with employment status at age 62 but was associated with job dissatisfaction (OR = 2.00, p = .001) and depressive symptoms (Beta = 0.34, p < .001). Findings suggest a negative association between employment discrimination at any point in the life course and Black older adults' well-being. Employment discrimination is an obstacle to healthy aging, yet improved discrimination survey items are needed to fully capture its impact on Black Americans.

A prospective test of the broaden-and-build model of positive emotions: examining the role of will and ways as temporal mediators of hedonic and eudaimonic well-being in adults

ABSTRACT Integrating Fredrickson’s (2001) broaden-and-build model of positive emotions with Snyder’s (1994) theory of hope, the present prospectively designed study sought to examine positive mood as a predictor of hedonic and eudaimonic well-being (e.g. life satisfaction, psychological well-being), and to determine if hope agency and pathways accounted for any prospective association identified between positive mood and indices of well-being. One hundred and thirty-six adults completed a measure of positive mood at Time 1, a measure of hope agency and pathways at Time 2 (1 month later), and measures of well-being at Time 3 (2 months later). Results of mediation testing indicated that hope agency, but not hope pathways, had indirect effects on each of the three indices of well-being examined. Taken together, these prospective findings provide further evidence for the importance of positive mood in building hope agency as an important explanation for how positive mood might foster well-being in adults.

Neighborhood Social Cohesion and Psychological Well-Being Among Older Adults: The Mediating Role of Home Attachment, Neighborhood Attachment, and Social Capital

This study aimed to examine the association between neighborhood social cohesion and psychological well-being among older adults in Iran in 2020. A cross-sectional design was employed, with 414 older adults recruited using a clustered sampling technique. The data collection instruments included the WHO-5 Well-Being Index, the Perceived Neighborhood Social Cohesion scale, the Place Attachment Scale for Older Adults, and the Social Capital Assessment Tool. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and the PROCESS Macro model 4 in SPSS24. Neighborhood social capital was found to completely mediate the association between neighborhood cohesion and psychological well-being among older adults. These results suggest that policymakers should consider implementing targeted policies to enhance neighborhood cohesion in order to improve the psychological well-being of older adults.

Volunteer group participation and subsequent health and well-being among older adults in Japan: An outcome-wide longitudinal approach

BackgroundPrior studies have underscored the importance of studying volunteering in the East Asian context. However, no study has conducted a holistic assessment of the relationship between volunteering and the multidimensional health and well-being outcomes of East Asian populations using a strong study design for causal inference. To address this gap, this study examined the associations between volunteer group participation and the subsequent health and well-being of Japanese older adults. MethodsThree waves of data (2013, 2016, and 2019), obtained from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study—a nationwide cohort study of physically and cognitively independent older adults, aged ≥ 65 years, in Japan—were utilized. Exposure was evaluated as the frequency of volunteer group participation: ≥ 1/week, 1 − 3 times a month, a few times a year, and none (2016). As outcomes, 40 indicators of health and well-being were assessed across seven domains (2019): physical/cognitive health, health behaviors, mental health, subjective well-being, social well-being, pro-social/altruistic behaviors, and cognitive social capital. We included 47,318 respondents for four outcomes (death, dementia, and functional disability [any level and level 2 or greater]) and 34,187 respondents for the 36 other outcomes. ResultsMore frequent volunteering (≥ 1/week) was associated with higher social well-being outcomes, more frequent pro-social/altruistic behaviors and outings, and fewer depressive symptoms, even after considering multiple testing. ConclusionThroughout the three-year follow-ups, volunteer group participation was beneficial for depressive symptoms, social well-being, and other proximal outcomes.

Pre-widowhood social support is linked to loneliness patterns: a growth mixture model using the health and retirement study

Objectives The first aim of the study is to compare loneliness levels between widowed and non-widowed older adults. The second aim is to identify distinct loneliness patterns among widowed individuals and explore the impact of pre-spousal loss social support on loneliness during and after bereavement. Method Data from the Health and Retirement Study were utilized to compare loneliness levels between widowed (n = 137) and non-widowed (n = 2361) older adults (M age = 69.01). T-tests and latent growth curve models were conducted to compare loneliness levels between the two groups. Growth mixture models were computed to identify distinct loneliness patterns among the widowed individuals. A multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine how pre-widowhood social support was associated with the obtained classes. Results The results revealed that widowed individuals reported significantly higher levels of loneliness at T2. Among widowed individuals, three distinct loneliness patterns were identified: Increased Loneliness (IL) group (n = 32); Low and Stable Loneliness (LSL) group (n = 88); and Decreased Loneliness (DL) group (n = 17). The IL and DL group were less likely to receive social support from spouse, children, and friends compared to the LSL group. Conclusion This study provides evidence of the protective effect of pre-widowhood social support on the psychological well-being of older adults after spousal loss.

Assessing the Impact of Street Visual Environment on the Emotional Well-Being of Young Adults through Physiological Feedback and Deep Learning Technologies

Investigating the impact of street visual environments on young adults’ emotions is crucial for the promotion of walkable and healthy streets. However, the applicability and accuracy of existing studies are limited by a lack of large-scale sample validation. Moreover, many studies have determined emotions through subjective evaluation methods or relied solely on a single physiological indicator to assess levels of emotional arousal, neglecting the significance of emotional valence. In response, this study aims to enhance our understanding of the emotional impact of street visual environments by employing a method that integrates physiological feedback technology and deep learning. We collected videos of 100 streets from five districts in Chengdu to serve as experimental stimuli, and utilizing physiological feedback technology, we gathered data on electrocardiograms (ECG), electrodermal activity (EDA), and respiratory responses (RESP) from 50 participants as they observed these street environments. Subsequently, we applied deep learning techniques to process the video and physiological data, ultimately obtaining 500 data entries on street visual environment elements and 25,000 data entries on emotional arousal and valence. Additionally, we established multiple linear regression and multinomial logistic regression models to explore the relationship between visual street environments and emotions. The results reveal that elements such as green view factor (GVF), sky view factor (Sky VF), and sidewalk view factor (SVF) not only reduce emotional arousal levels but also facilitate the shift from negative to positive emotions, positively affecting emotional regulation. In contrast, visual enclosure (VE), vehicle view factor (VVF), and person view factor (PVF) are associated with negative emotional arousal, adversely affecting emotional valence. Moreover, the impact of specific visual environmental elements on different emotional states may vary. This study introduces a novel, multidisciplinary approach to accurately quantify the relationship between the environment and emotions, providing significant theoretical and practical insights for the development of healthier cities.

Fostering collective impact in arts-based interventions and cultural programs for creative well-being of older adults

Despite growing interest in research into how the arts impact older adults’ health and well-being, there are many related complexities that are yet to be fully understood. This is partly due to the fact that documentation and analysis of arts-based interventions and cultural programmes for older adults in the public service domain are relatively new and uncommon. Furthermore, the effective implementation and the delivery of such inter­ventions to ageing people generally involve many stakeholders, often with divergent interests and priorities. This article presents an interview-based study that explores the diverse experiences of professionals from different sectors who have been involved in delivery of arts-based interventions and cultural programmes for older adults in South Korea and Finland. The study maps out similarities and differences in the approaches taken and the challenges faced in such interventions, using the five themes of the narrative interviews that have been conducted. The study findings highlight the need for supporting collective efforts among the diverse stakeholders to provide effective arts-based interventions and cultural programmes for ageing people. We argue that such efforts will ultimately become catalysts for synergetic actions that address the interconnected and encompassing challenges of an ageing society.

Ultra low-power, wearable, accelerated shallow-learning fall detection for elderly at-risk persons

This work focuses on the development and manufacturing of a wireless, wearable, low-power fall detection sensor (FDS) designed to predict and detect falls in elderly at-risk individuals. Unintentional falls are a significant risk in this demographic, often resulting from diminished physical capabilities such as reduced hand grip strength and complications from conditions like arthritis, vertigo, and neuromuscular issues. To address this, we utilize advanced low-power field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) to implement a fixed-function neural network capable of categorizing activities of daily life (ADLs), including the detection of falls. This system employs a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model, trained and validated using the Caffe deep learning framework with data collected from human subjects experiments. This system integrates an ST Microelectronics LSM6DSOX inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor, embedded with an ultra-low-power Lattice iCE40UP FPGA, which samples and stores joint acceleration and orientation rate. Additionally, we have acquired and published a dataset of 3D accelerometer and gyroscope measurements from predefined ADLs and falls, using volunteer human subjects. This innovative approach aims to enhance the safety and well-being of older adults by providing timely and accurate fall detection and prediction.In this paper, we present an innovative approach to utilizing a compact Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) core for accelerating convolutional operations on a machine learning model, suitable for deployment on an ultra-low power FPGA.

A rural teledentistry care experience: a geriatric approach to assessing oral health status and treatment needs in older adults from a Mapuche community in Chile.

Limited attention has been given to oral health challenges faced by older Indigenous populations, especially in rural settings, where disparities exist. This study aims to assess oral health in a rural Mapuche community in southern Chile, utilizing geriatric technology support, and exploring the connection between geriatric health and oral well-being to fill a gap in this context. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 76 independent older adults from a rural Mapuche community who required dental care. Assessments were in a remote care setting gathering extensive data including comprehensive geriatric assessments, medical and dental conditions using a geriatric teledentistry platform (TEGO®). Statistical analysis involved descriptive analysis, logistic regression, and both multiple correspondence analysis and k-means cluster analysis. The sample comprised individuals with limited formal education and a high degree of vulnerability. Geriatric assessments unveiled cognitive deterioration, frailty, depression risk, and multimorbidity. A distribution of the DMFT index, number of remaining teeth, number of occluding pairs, number of teeth with restorative needs and other relevant clinical findings was conducted based on sociodemographic, and medical-geriatric-dental characteristics, and additionally, a Multinomial Logistic Regression Analysis of Dentition Variables in Relation to Geriatric Assessments was performed. The dental burden was substantial, with an average DMFT index of 25.96 (SD 4.38), high prevalence of non-functional dentition (89.3%), periodontal disease (83%), xerostomia (63.2%) and oral mucosal lesions (31.5%). Age, lower education, depression, daily medication number and sugary consumption frequency were associated with a decreased average number of teeth (p < 0.05). Multiple correspondence analysis and k-means cluster analysis identified 4 clusters, with the edentulous and functional dentition groups being the most distinct. This study uncovers a substantial dental burden and intricate medical-geriatric conditions interlinked among Indigenous older adults in a rural Chilean Mapuche community. The implementation of a geriatric technological ecosystem in the community enabled the resolution of less complex oral health issues and facilitated remote consultations with specialists, reducing the necessity for travel to health centers. This underscores the need for innovative dental public health initiatives to address health disparities and improve the overall well-being of older Indigenous adults.

Connected through movement: a feasibility study of online mindfulness-based dance/movement therapy for older adults with age-related cognitive decline during COVID-19

Objectives Social isolation and loneliness pose significant public health risks, especially among older adults experiencing age-related cognitive decline (ACD). This mixed methods feasibility study explored the potential of an online mindfulness-based dance/movement therapy (M-DMT) program to alleviate loneliness, enhance psychological well-being, and promote physical activity among older adults experiencing ACD during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method Sixteen participants engaged in a 12-week online group M-DMT program. Feasibility was assessed via enrollment and retention rates, attendance, adverse events, credibility/expectancy, participant perceptions, and satisfaction. Qualitative data were collected to capture participants’ perspectives on the intervention’s usefulness and perceived benefits. The intervention’s preliminary impact on loneliness, depression, positive affect, psychological well-being, and physical activity was also examined. Results The study met all feasibility criteria, with 65% reporting post-intervention improvement. Significant reductions in loneliness and depression, along with enhanced positive affect and psychological well-being, were observed. Though physical activity increased, statistical significance was not achieved. Qualitative feedback highlighted improved social connectedness, overall quality of life, body awareness, kinematic strategy, and satisfaction with the program. Conclusion Online M-DMT holds promise in addressing well-being and loneliness challenges in older adults experiencing ACD. Further research is necessary to validate and expand upon these promising findings.

Effect of retirement on loneliness: a longitudinal comparative analysis across Australia, China and the USA

BackgroundThere is evidence that the transition to retirement can bring social challenges and may increase loneliness. Few studies have examined the impact of retirement on loneliness; most have been conducted...

The Role of Recreational Activities in Enhancing Quality of Life among the Elderly

Purpose: The general aim of this study was to explore the role of recreational activities in enhancing the quality of life among the elderly. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the role of recreational activities in enhancing the quality of life among the elderly. Preliminary empirical review revealed that regular participation in recreational activities was crucial for improving various aspects of well-being for older adults. Physical activities improved physical health and mobility, social activities reduced feelings of loneliness and isolation, and cognitive and creative activities stimulated the brain and enhanced psychological well-being. The study identified gaps in understanding and access to recreational activities for the elderly, highlighting the need for more research and inclusive programming. Overall, the findings underscored the importance of tailored recreational programs in promoting a better quality of life for elderly individuals. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Theory of Planned Behavior, Activity Theory and Socioemotional Selectivity Theory may be used to anchor future studies on recreational activities on the quality of life among the elderly. The study made significant contributions to theory, practice, and policy in gerontology and public health. It provided empirical support for existing theories, such as the Theory of Planned Behavior and Socioemotional Selectivity Theory, while offering actionable recommendations for healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. By validating theoretical frameworks, offering practical insights, and informing policy initiatives, the study advanced understanding of how recreational interventions can promote well-being and quality of life in aging populations. Through continued research, practice, and policy efforts, stakeholders could work collaboratively to create supportive environments

What does TikTok have to do with it? Experiences of Young Adults with Social Media and Life Satisfaction: A Qualitative Analysis of Influences

This qualitative study investigates the impact of TikTok usage on the life satisfaction and its contribution towards self-actualization of young adults aged 18-25. Adopting a phenomenological approach, the research explores the experiences and perceptions of TikTok engagement and its relation to the life satisfaction of five young adults. Six main themes emerged for the analysis: 1) Love &amp; Belonging, 2) Influence, 3) Life Satisfaction, 4) Self-Esteem and Identify, 5) Mood, and 6) Risks and Challenges. These findings uncover various aspects of TikTok use, such as content consumption patterns and emotional responses, offering insights into the nuanced ways TikTok influences young adults' perceptions of their lives and contribute to a deeper understanding of the relationship between the platform engagement and life satisfaction. Furthermore, this research underscores the importance of social workers' role in advocating for ethical social media practices and clinical interventions tailored to address the impacts of social media on the overall wellbeing of young adults.