Well-being Of Older Adults Research Articles

Internet use and mental wellbeing in older adults

Internet use and mental wellbeing in older adults

Access to Network Social Capital and Health Outcomes in Later Life: Understanding the Role of Tie Strength

Our study contributes to the scholarship by examining the concrete ways in which two distinct types of interpersonal connection—strong/close versus weak/distant—are independently related to self-rated health and life satisfaction cross-nationally. In addition, we explore whether and how the two types of interpersonal connection modify the magnitude of the associations between subjective social status (SSS) and health and well-being of older populations cross-nationally. According to results from our multilevel analysis, social capital available through strong ties (family and friends) is positively associated with both outcomes. On the other hand, social capital via weak ties (acquaintances) is positively related to health but negatively related to well-being. We also find that social capital mediated by strong ties significantly buffers the harmful implications of status disadvantage or low SSS on health and well-being of older adults. In comparison, weak tie-mediated social capital provides buffering against status disadvantage only for well-being.

Relationship between physical activity, body posture and morbidity risk in the elderly population

Background Physical activity plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of older adults, positively influencing various aspects of their quality of life. This study aims to explore the relationship between physical activity and body segments, as well as the risk indices of non-communicable chronic diseases in healthy elderly individuals. Methods The analyzed variables include weekly physical activity, the Postural Correction Index (PCI), measured using the system developed by Portland State University (PSU), and predictors of non-communicable chronic diseases assessed through body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio. Results The results reveal a moderate positive relationship between physical activity and the PCI (r=0.45; p≤0.05), with significant correlations in specific components of the PCI, such as thoracic depression (r=0.51; p<0.01), anteroposterior shoulder alignment (r=0.51; p<0.01), and upper back (r=0.53; p<0.001). Conclusions It is concluded that physical activity has a significant positive impact on the posture of older adults, particularly in the trunk, contributing 40% to the improvement of PCI components. The PCI values obtained, exceeding 84.67 in men and 82.67 in women according to the PSU evaluation, underscore the effectiveness of physical activity in postural correction and the prevention of issues associated with chronic diseases.

1.L. Scientific session: Public Health data in support of healthy ageing policies

Abstract As Europe grapples with an ageing population, the imperative of health policies that promote healthy ageing is increasingly critical. This workshop aims to explore the significant role of public health data in shaping and supporting such policies. By integrating insights from administrative records to sophisticated research infrastructures, we will highlight the multifaceted uses of data in public health, particularly in the realms of non-communicable diseases and health-related behaviours in older populations. The session will open by examining how administrative records have been utilised within Lombardy’s regional health system to understand the epidemiology and access to care for people living with dementia. The discussion will then cover the advantages and challenges associated with integrating health data from diverse sources, emphasising the importance of quality, privacy, and the potential for real-time surveillance and response systems in healthcare. Following this, the focus will shift to the determinants of good health among older adults, presenting findings from a comprehensive cross-sectional study that identifies key factors contributing to what can be termed as “superhero” health status: seniors who maintain excellent physical and mental health. This analysis will delve into socioeconomic, behavioural, and environmental factors that influence health outcomes in the elderly, providing evidence-based recommendations for public health interventions and highlighting the potentialities of ad hoc surveys in examining health outcomes during emergencies. Thirdly, the workshop will also address the impact of significant life transitions on health behaviours, specifically the transition to retirement and its effects on alcohol consumption. Leveraging longitudinal data from a pan-European multidisciplinary research infrastructure, it will be demonstrated how retirement affects daily habits and lifestyles, including changes in alcohol consumption patterns. This segment will explore the implications of these findings for public health planning and policy formulation. In conclusion, there will be a discussion about healthcare system policies that support healthy ageing and the global impact of ageing on economics and health economics. These discussions will draw from the presented data sources and studies to suggest ways in which public health policies can be designed to reduce disparities and improve overall health outcomes among the elderly. This workshop is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of how data-driven insights can inform effective public health strategies and interventions to support an ageing society. By exploring various aspects of health data application, from individual behaviour to systemic policy adjustments, the session aims to highlight the critical role of data in promoting sustainable health and well-being in older adults, especially in the context of increasing life expectancy and prolonged retirement periods. Key messages • Harnessing data from diverse sources is crucial for understanding and enhancing healthy ageing processes. • Utilising longitudinal studies and robust data to design informed public health policies is essential for effective ageing interventions.

Phenomenological study: Spiritual life of older adults

Purpose: As getting older, individuals may face various physical, mental, and social challenges that are a natural part of life. In recent times, an increasing number of individuals have been exploring the potential benefits of spirituality in enhancing the overall quality of life and well-being for older adults. Spirituality can take on many forms, including religious beliefs, the pursuit of purpose and significance, and the comprehension of faith, among other areas. This research aims to thoroughly examine and uncover the spiritual practices and beliefs of older adults residing in East Java, Indonesia. Method: This study involved qualitative research using a phenomenological methodology to gather data from ten older adults (60-90 years old) living at home in Malang Raya, Jawa Timur Provinces, Indonesia. Data was gathered through in-depth interviews and observations which were analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological methodology. A total of 10 questions were asked in the interviews. Result: After conducting research, it was discovered that the spiritual experiences of older adult Indonesians could be categorized into eight distinct areas, which could be further grouped into two major themes and three minor themes. The two major themes were the recognition of an invisible power during the aging process and the importance of building a strong connection with God. Conclusion: The spiritual life of senior citizens is a significant source of strength and fortitude, providing them with the necessary resilience to face the physical and mental challenges that come with transcendence. It is essential to recognize the transformative nature of a strong spiritual foundation, which can uplift and empower older adults to overcome the difficulties that may arise in the later stages of life.

Health Behavioural Status of Gender Differences in Older People

Aging is a universal phenomenon with no single definition, varying across cultures, time, and space. The health and well-being of older adults are significantly influenced by their behaviors, which often vary by gender. These differences can impact physical health, mental health, and overall quality of life. This study explores the health behavioral status of older adults, focusing on gender differences and how these disparities affect their health indicators. Such changes impact the health status of older people, making it harder for them to manage daily tasks and access healthcare. Conducted in Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan City, Kailali District, Nepal, this study aims to understand the socio-economic and health status of older people. Objectives include examining gender differences in health behavior among the elderly in this region. Gender differences in health behaviors among older adults significantly impact their health. Women engage more in preventive behaviors and seek healthcare services, while men engage in riskier behaviors and underutilize services. Understanding these differences is crucial for developing effective, gender-specific interventions to improve older adults' health and well-being. Gender differences were significant, with males showing a higher percentage of better health compared to females, and females showing slightly higher rates of bad health compared to males. Vision problems were prevalent, with a majority reporting no issues, some reporting minor problems, and a smaller portion having normal vision. Significant vision problems were reported by a notable fraction of respondents. Respiratory diseases were more prevalent among males than females, indicating a significant gender association. Gout or knee pain was more common in females than males, also showing a significant gender difference. Diabetes affected a larger portion of males compared to females, indicating a significant gender association. Blood pressure issues were slightly more prevalent in males compared to females, showing a significant gender association. Emotional health conditions such as grief, depression, and sadness showed significant gender differences, with females more likely to experience these issues.

The use of dance to improve the health and wellbeing of older adults: A global scoping review of research trials.

Dance is a promising health resource for older adults, but empirical evidence remains inconsistent. The lack of synthesised evidence regarding program design, dose, and delivery limits understanding of factors influencing participation and health outcomes. This scoping review aimed to map the scope, range, and effectiveness of dance programs for older people, and identify gaps and opportunities for future research and practice. Searches across five databases (September 2023) identified 148 studies evaluating 116 dance programs (≥4 weeks) for older adults (≥55 years, N = 8060), Dance interventions delivered to clinical groups were excluded. Intervention design and delivery were charted against the TIDieR reporting checklist. Program outcomes including adherence, safety, and positive tests were charted into established taxonomies. Demographic information, program details, and implementation were often insufficiently reported. Participant groups differed by age range, with underserved communities underrepresented. Programs varied extensively in key factors including dose, prospective 'active ingredients', delivery approach, facilitator expertise, and class size. While dance was physically safe, adherence rates in older adults are comparable to other community exercise programs. Less than 40% of health assessments showed positive change, with more consistent benefits to physical endurance, strength, and function, moderate impacts on psychosocial health, and limited benefits to cognitive and brain health, and falls and falls risk. Dance is a meaningful, safe, adaptable, and low-cost health resource for older adults. Key opportunities for advancing research include improved access for underserved groups, program suitability assessments, strategies to support adherence and engagement including theory-informed approaches, and incorporation of participant and practitioner insights. Identification of key 'active ingredients' and dance program factors may improve understanding of causal pathways and mechanisms to optimise engagement and health impacts. Stronger reporting practices will facilitate comparisons across studies and more robust evidence synthesis. This review provides a critical knowledge foundation to guide future approaches in dance for health and offers reporting recommendations.

Relationship between physical activity, body posture and morbidity risk in the elderly population

Background Physical activity plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of older adults, positively influencing various aspects of their quality of life. This study aims to explore the relationship between physical activity and body segments, as well as the risk indices of non-communicable chronic diseases in healthy elderly individuals. Methods The analyzed variables include weekly physical activity, the Postural Correction Index (PCI), measured using the system developed by Portland State University (PSU), and predictors of non-communicable chronic diseases assessed through body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio. Results The results reveal a moderate positive relationship between physical activity and the PCI (r=0.45; p≤0.05), with significant correlations in specific components of the PCI, such as thoracic depression (r=0.51; p<0.01), anteroposterior shoulder alignment (r=0.51; p<0.01), and upper back (r=0.53; p<0.001). Conclusions It is concluded that physical activity has a significant positive impact on the posture of older adults, particularly in the trunk, contributing 40% to the improvement of PCI components. The PCI values obtained, exceeding 82.67 in men and 84.67 in women according to the PSU evaluation, underscore the effectiveness of physical activity in postural correction and the prevention of issues associated with chronic diseases.

The Relationship between Marital Satisfaction and Spiritual Well-Being of Chinese Older Adults: The Mediating Effect of Psychological Security and Aging Expectations.

This study explores the relationship between marital satisfaction and spiritual well-being in older adults and the role of psychological security and aging expectations in older adult relationships. A convenient sample cross-sectional research method collected data from 367 older adults in Sichuan Province, China. A chain mediation model was constructed using quantitative analysis methods to test the relationship between marital satisfaction and older adults' spiritual well-being and the potential mediating roles of psychological security and aging expectations. The research conclusions are as follows: marital satisfaction positively correlates with spiritual well-being, and psychological security and aging expectations play independent chain mediating roles.

The development of intrinsic capacity measures for longitudinal research: The Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam

BackgroundThe World Health Organization has introduced the construct of intrinsic capacity (IC) as an important component of healthy ageing and overall well-being in older adults The present study aimed to develop domain-specific and composite IC scores and to validate these scores by examining their longitudinal relation with functioning. MethodsWe used prospective data on participants aged 57 to over 90 years, with a 10-year follow-up, from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam, an ongoing cohort study of older Dutch men and women Using a formative, stepwise approach, we identified indicators across the different domains of IC, i.e. vitality, sensory, cognition, psychology, and locomotion, using a combination of unidimensional factor analyses and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). Next, domain-specific and composite IC scores were generated, and the construct validity (score across age groups) and criterion validity (relationship with change in functional limitations) were assessed. ResultsThe multiple unidimensional factor analyses and PLS-SEM identified a total of 18 indicators, covering the five domains of IC. The mean composite IC score was 70.9 (SD = 0.9) in men and 69.7 (0.8) in women. The domain-specific and composite IC scores all showed good construct validity, with known-group validation results indicating age-related declines. A higher composite IC score was associated with less functional limitations over time (B = 0.20, 95%CI [0.19, 0.22]). ConclusionThe developed domain-specific IC scores and the composite IC score effectively discriminated age-related declines in IC. Additionally, the composite IC score was longitudinally associated with functional limitations. By creating this comprehensive and reliable tool for tracking IC, we aim to provide valuable insights into the dynamics of ageing and support more effective strategies for promoting health and well-being throughout later life. These scores establish a foundation for future research to track longitudinal changes across various IC domains and relate these changes to key age-related outcomes.

Aging enhances pro-atrogenic gene expression and skeletal muscle loss following respiratory syncytial virus infection.

Aging and many age-related health conditions are associated with skeletal muscle loss. Furthermore, older adults are more susceptible to severe respiratory infections, which can in turn lead to muscle wasting. The mechanisms by which respiratory viral infection can impact skeletal muscle in older adults are not well understood. We determined the effects of acute infection with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) on the lung and skeletal muscle of aged mice. RSV infection caused more severe disease in aged mice with enhanced weight loss, reduced feeding, higher viral load, and greater airway inflammation. Aged but not young mice showed decreased leg muscle weight at the peak of illness and decreased size of leg muscle fibers. Aged mice increased muscle-specific expression of atrophy-promoting enzymes (Atrogin-1 and MuRF-1) and failed to increase the rate of muscle protein synthesis during RSV infection. In aged mice, the changes in Atrogin-1 and MuRF-1 gene expression in skeletal muscle correlated with IL-6 levels in the lungs. These findings indicate that RSV infection of aged mice provides a model for studying the diverse adverse systemic consequences of respiratory viral infections on health and wellbeing in older adults.

A 3-Wave Longitudinal Study of eHealth Literacy and Older People's Health-Related Quality of Life in China: The Mediating Role of General Self-Efficacy

Background and ObjectivesHealth-related quality of life (HRQoL) is an important indicator to reflect the independence and well-being of older adults in their later life. Improving the HRQoL of older adults is of great importance for achieving healthy aging. The internet provides extensive health information and being able to effectively use the electronic health (eHealth) resources (reflected as “eHealth literacy”) potentially empowers older adults to manage health and improve HRQoL. However, there is limited evidence about the relationship between eHealth literacy and HRQoL in this population. This study aims to examine the longitudinal association and temporal relationship between eHealth literacy and HRQoL among older adults, and to explore potential underlying mechanisms. DesignA 3-wave longitudinal study. Setting and ParticipantsChinese older adults aged 55 or older in Jiangxi Province, China. MethodsData were collected at baseline (T1) and 3-month (T2) and 6-month (T3) follow-ups during February to December 2022, using online self-reported questionnaires. eHealth literacy, HRQoL, and general self-efficacy were measured using validated tools. Statistical analyses, including longitudinal Tobit regression, cross-lagged panel model (CLPM), and longitudinal mediation analysis were performed. ResultsA total of 611 participants were included at T1, and 464 (75.9%) completed both 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Longitudinal Tobit regression suggested that older individuals with higher eHealth literacy showed better HRQoL over time (adjusted β, 0.023; 95% CI, 0.011–0.035; P < .001), after accounting for covariates. The CLPM supported that higher eHealth literacy significantly predicts improved HRQoL over time (standardized β, 0.09, P = .008), but not the reverse. In addition, general self-efficacy at T2 fully mediated the relationship from eHealth literacy at T1 and HRQoL at T3, with mediated proportion of 28.3%. Conclusions and ImplicationsThis study highlighted the importance of eHealth literacy and self-efficacy in improving HRQoL among older adults, supporting the development of tailored interventions to promote their HRQoL.

Negotiating connections, confinements, and neighbourhood places: Older adults’ everyday well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted society and raised concerns about the well-being of older adults. Today, many people have abandoned ‘pandemic protocols’ but questions remain about the pandemic's longer term impacts on older adults. We used digitally mediated photovoice to explore older adults’ well-being in the context of their everyday lives, early in the pandemic and again two years later. Nine apartment-dwelling older adults who lived in high-density neighbourhoods in Vancouver, Canada participated in our study. We holistically considered how five dimensions of well-being were interrelated to shape experiences: material, relational, subjective, psychological, and environmental. We explored positive and negative aspects of these dimensions in relation to two key themes: (i) negotiating comfort, purpose and confinement at home, and (ii) navigating neighbourhood places amidst pandemic disruptions. Material resources to meet one's needs (e.g., communication technology, hobbies) and access to public and private greenspaces were assets. However, some participants experienced increased barriers to maintaining the five overlapping dimensions of well-being we examined; these participants viewed their homes negatively, and engaged less with their neighbourhoods over time. We emphasize how older adults’ well-being during the pandemic was a dynamic and, at times, precarious process. Understanding how interrelated dimensions shape older adult well-being might ultimately inform practices and policies that promote age-friendly cities.

‘Excellent for mind,body and spirit’: Participant, facilitator, and community stakeholder experiences of Music and Movement for Health

Background and purposeArts-based interventions are an emerging area of interest in health research for older adults. Music and Movement for Health (MMH) is one such systematically developed interdisciplinary arts-based intervention designed to enhance health and wellbeing of older adults. The objective of this qualitative study was to explore the opinions and experiences of participants, facilitators, and community stakeholders of the MMH intervention. Materials and methodsThis embedded qualitative study was completed as part of a wider evaluation of the MMH intervention. A purposive sample of older adults who had completed MMH (n = 71), facilitators (n = 8) and community stakeholders (n = 4) participated in this study. Data were collected through a combination of focus groups and telephone/virtual interviews. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. ResultsData analysis led to the generation of the overarching theme ‘Positive ageing in place’, which encompassed two themes: (1) ‘Intersection of exercise and arts’ and (2) ‘Fostering a sense of belonging’, and five subthemes. MMH was viewed as a unique arts-based intervention that combined participants' interest in music and dance and had many perceived physical and psychological benefits. Additionally, MMH provided routine and social opportunities to older adults, which were particularly valued in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. ConclusionThe provision of exercise through the arts was enjoyable and, resultantly, desirable to many older adults, with perceived positive physical and psychosocial outcomes. Consequently, the use of arts-based interventions for health promotion and social opportunities among older adults warrants further investigation. Trial registrationISRCTN35313497.

Analysis of the Current Situation and Influencing Factors of Psychological Well-Being of Elderly People in the Community

Objective: To investigate the current psychological well-being of older people in the community and analyze its influencing factors. Methods: A total of 265 community-dwelling older adults aged 60 and above in Baoding City, Hebei Province, were selected through convenience sampling from November 2023 to March 2024. They were surveyed using a general information questionnaire and a comprehensive well-being questionnaire, with results analyzed statistically using SPSS 27.0. Results: Six dimensions of the psychological well-being scale for community older adults were identified: life vitality (P50 = 4.83), health concern (P50 = 4.6), self-worth (P50 = 5.6), friendly relationships (P50 = 5.33), altruistic behavior (P50 = 5.2), personality growth (P50 = 4.67), and comprehensive well-being (P50 = 161). Multivariate regression analysis showed that social isolation (β = -0.021, P &lt; 0.001), type of work (β = -0.142, P &lt; 0.001), chronic disease history (β = 0.004, P &lt; 0.001), need for mobility aid (β = 0.192, P &lt; 0.001), and monthly income (β = 0.381, P &lt; 0.001) were factors influencing psychological well-being. Conclusion: The psychological well-being of the elderly is slightly above moderate and requires improvement. Enhancing factors such as reducing social isolation, addressing chronic disease history, and improving financial support could improve psychological well-being in older adults.

From rationality to identity: the impact of using community health services for the aged on the well-being of older adults in China.

To better understand the outcome benefits of community health services for the aged (CHSA) and provide bottom-up identity for development, this study examined the impact of using CHSA on well-being of older adults from both objective and subjective dimensions. Data from 1,411 people aged 60+ in Shaanxi, China was used in this study. The OLS estimate was used to analyze the impact of using CHSA on well-being of older adults. Then, the instrumental variable estimate was further hired to examine associations among variables to address the potential endogeneity concerns. The heterogeneity among disabled and non-disabled group was also estimated. For objective well-being, the mental health (β = 0.44) and financial well-being (β = 0.59) of older people using CHSA were significantly higher than those not using any service. The impact on objective well-being were more significant in non-disabled group. For subjective well-being, life meaning (β = 0.54) and security (β = 0.72) were positively associated with CHSA utilization, while independence index (β = -0.33) was negatively related with CHSA utilization. The subjective well-being of disabled group using services increased more than non-disabled group. Findings underscore the positive, albeit group-selective, role of CHSA in improving well-being of older people in China and imply the necessity of high-quality development of CHSA and the targeted differentiation strategy.

The extent and burden of high multimorbidity on older adults in the US: a descriptive analysis of Medicare beneficiaries

BackgroundThe impact of multimorbidity (≥ 2 chronic diseases) on the well-being of older adults is substantial but variable. The burden of multimorbidity varies by the number and kinds of conditions, and timing of onset. The impact varies by age, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and health indicators. Large scale longitudinal surveys linked to medical claims provide unique opportunities to characterize this variability.MethodsWe analyzed Medicare-linked Health and Retirement Study data for respondents 65 and older with 3 or more years of fee-for-service coverage (n = 17,199; 2000–2016). We applied standardized claims algorithms for operationalizing 21 chronic diseases. We compared multimorbidity levels, demographics, and outcomes at baseline and over time and escalation to high multimorbidity levels (≥ 5 conditions).ResultsAt baseline, 51.2% had no multimorbidity, 36.5% had multimorbidity, and 12.4% had high multimorbidity. Loss of function, cognitive decline, and higher healthcare utilization were up to ten times more prevalent in the high multimorbidity group. Greater rates of high multimorbidity were seen among non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic groups, those with lower wealth, younger birth cohorts, and adults with obesity. Rates of transition to high multimorbidity varied greatly and was highest among Hispanic and respondents with lower education.ConclusionsThe development and progression of multimorbidity in old age is influenced by many factors. Higher levels of multimorbidity are associated with sociodemographic characteristics, suggesting possible mitigation strategies.

Nursing Staff's Perspectives of Care Robots for Assisted Living Facilities: Systematic Literature Review.

Care robots have been proposed in response to nursing shortages in assisted living facilities (ALFs) and the growing population of older adults. While the use of care robots may improve the general health and well-being of older adults, their introduction changes the work of nursing staff fundamentally, and it has implications for the entire health care system. In developing such technology, it is important to include end users, but so far, the nursing staff's perspectives have largely been ignored. This study aims to examine the literature on nursing staff's attitudes, needs, and preferences related to the use of care robots in ALFs, in order to discover gaps in the literature and guide future research. This review follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) 2020 protocol. On May 12, 2023, we searched PubMed, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, PsycINFO, the IEEE Xplore Digital Library, and the ACM Digital Library using predetermined search terms. Included publications, written in English, focused on the predevelopment phase, in which information was gathered on nursing staff's attitudes, needs, and preferences regarding care robots for ALFs. Publications were excluded if they did not provide peer-reviewed empirical data. The studies' findings were summarized, coded, and analyzed into major themes using thematic analysis and narrative synthesis. Their quality was assessed using McGill University's Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool and the Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal tools. The final sample included 15 studies. Most of the studies (n=11, 73%) were rated as good quality; however, there was a general lack of reporting on important methodological decisions and sample characteristics. Nursing staff desired care robots that could assist with physically demanding tasks and reduce their workload but had mixed feelings on whether robots could or should assist with social tasks. In addition, nursing staff are concerned about the ethics of care robots, as well as about their safety, accessibility, and operability. The nursing staff's culture, qualification, and role in the facility may influence their perspectives of care robots. The studies lacked theory-driven designs and large sample sizes. Eight (53%) studies mentioned using a participatory design approach, but a lack of established criteria for what constitutes participatory design leads to varying degrees of methodological quality. There was consensus among nursing staff that care robots should serve as nursing assistants to reduce workload. Whether robots could or should assist with social tasks remains a question. Further research is needed to mitigate nursing staff's concerns and understand the socioecological factors that influence their perspectives of care robots and their adoption in ALFs. In addition, theory-driven and large sample size study designs are necessary, as well as work to develop clear criteria for related participatory design research.

Frailty and Health-Related Quality of Life Among European Older Adults: The Moderating Effect of Human Development Index

ABSTRACT The Human Development Index (HDI) is a proxy for the social and economic level of countries, which is related to the health and well-being of older adults. This study aimed to examine the moderating effect of the HDI on the relationship between frailty and health-related quality of life among European older adults. Participants were 23,972 older adults (53.2% female, M = 74.2 years old, SD = 6.75 years old) from 24 European countries, joining wave 8 (2020) of the Survey of Health, Aging, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). Multilevel modeling was used to analyze nested data. Significant differences in health-related quality of life among the several European Union countries were observed (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.18, LRT (1) = 5568.07, p < .001). The HDI has been shown to moderate the relationship between frailty and health-related quality of life among older adults, buffering the impact of frailty on the health-related quality of life. Since healthy aging is a priority for the European Union, policies mitigating the impact of HDI on the relationship between frailty and health-related quality of life should be implemented.

A - 19 Exploring White Matter Correlates of Fluid Cognitive Functioning in those 85+

Abstract Objective In individuals aged 85+, maintenance of white matter integrity (WMI) is crucial for maintaining communication between brain regions. White matter hyperintensities (WMH), common in aging, are linked with reduced cognitive function. While fluid cognitive functions typically decline with aging, some oldest older adults maintain performance akin to much younger individuals. Methods We examined the relationship between WMI, WMH, and fluid cognitive functioning in individuals aged 85+. WMI and WMH were assessed using two types of MRI imaging and fluid and crystallized cognitive performance were measured using the NIH Toolbox. Cognitive metrics were compared to WMI and WMH. Results Age significantly predicted fluid cognition (β = 0.49, p &amp;lt; 0.05, R^2 = 0.25, p &amp;lt; 0.01). Incorporating white matter measures improved prediction. Notably, cingulate gyrus FA and uncinate fasciculus FA significantly contributed to explained variance (ΔR^2 = 0.12, p &amp;lt; 0.01; ΔR^2 = 0.17, p &amp;lt; 0.01). Splenium corpus callosum MD and fornix column body ad were also significant predictors (ΔR^2 = 0.23, p &amp;lt; 0.01; ΔR^2 = 0.18, p &amp;lt; 0.01).n. Conclusion This study shows the significant impact of age and regional WMI on fluid cognitive function. Age did predict fluid cognition, and consideration of the white matter integrity of the cingulate gyrus and uncinate fasciculus integrity enhanced this association. Further, the integrity of the splenium of the corpus callosum and fornix also played crucial roles. These findings highlight the importance of preservation of white matter health for cognitive well-being in older adults 85 + .