scholarly journals SENIOR MODELS: SUCCESSFUL AGING AND SERIOUS LEISURE

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S723-S723
Author(s):  
Sanghee Lee ◽  
Jaeyoon Bae ◽  
Sua Im ◽  
Jinmoo Heo
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Interpersonal Relationships ◽  
Successful Aging ◽  
Leisure Activities ◽  
Health Benefits ◽  
Later Life ◽  
Serious Leisure ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Selective Optimization With Compensation ◽  
Meaningful Experiences

Abstract Serious leisure involves productive engagement and commitment in leisure activities. Literature shows that participating in serious leisure is associated with physical and mental health benefits of older adults. The behavior of senior modeling reflects serious leisure engagement that might offer a new insight useful in understanding successful aging. We explored the experience of senior models as a form of serious leisure. Using selective optimization with compensation as well as serious leisure framework, we attempted to identify how senior modeling activity contributes to successful aging. This study used in-depth interviews using purposeful sampling, and data were collected over two months in 2019. The participants were 31 senior models (average age = 67). The analysis resulted in three themes which contained characteristics of serious leisure as well as selective optimization with compensation: identifying new possibilities, serious engagement, and rewards from meaningful experiences. This study demonstrated various experiential characteristics associated with modeling as a form of serious leisure. Through selection, optimization, and compensation process, the participants seemed to achieve successful aging. We found that senior model experiences promoted active lifestyle, health benefits, and interpersonal relationships. To our knowledge, this is the first exploration of the experience of senior modeling activity. Consistent with existing literature, our study provides evidence of the significant role of serious leisure in later life. We suggest that senior modeling program holds promise as an effective way for older adults because it can be used as a self-care approach and community programs not only in Korea, but at various locations.

scholarly journals The Impact of Leisure Activities on Older Adults’ Cognitive Function, Physical Function, and Mental Health

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Giovanni Sala ◽  
Daniela Jopp ◽  
Fernand Gobet ◽  
Madoka Ogawa ◽  
Yukie Masui ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Cognitive Function ◽  
Physical Function ◽  
Successful Aging ◽  
Leisure Activities ◽  
The Elderly ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
The Impact

Engagement in leisure activities has been claimed to be highly beneficial in the elderly. Practicing such activities is supposed to help older adults to preserve cognitive function, physical function, and mental health, and thus to contribute to successful aging. We built an SEM model analyzing the impact of leisure activities on these constructs in a large sample of Japanese older adults (N = 809; age range 72-74). The model exhibited an excellent fit (CFI = 1), and engaging in leisure activities was positively associated with all the three successful aging indicators.These findings corroborate previous research carried out in Western countries and extend its validity to the population of Eastern older adults. Albeit correlational in nature, these results suggest that active engagement in leisure activities can help older adults to maintain cognitive, physical, and mental health. Future research will clarify whether there is a causal relationship between engagement in leisure activities and successful aging.

Leisure Activities and the Subjective Well-Being of Older Adults in Croatia

GeroPsych ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 31 (1) ◽  
pp. 31-39 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ljiljana Kaliterna Lipovčan ◽  
Tihana Brkljačić ◽  
Zvjezdana Prizmić Larsen ◽  
Andreja Brajša-Žganec ◽  
Renata Franc
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Leisure Activities ◽  
Leisure Activity ◽  
Later Life ◽  
Perceived Health ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Hierarchical Regression ◽  
Subjective Well Being ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Financial Status

Abstract. Research shows that engagement in leisure activities promotes well-being among older adults. The objective of the current study was to examine the relationship between subjective well-being (flourishing) and leisure activities (total number of different activities in the previous year) in a sample of older adults in Croatia, thereby considering the variables of sex, marital status, financial status, and self-perceived health. The differences in the examined variables between the groups of older adults who reported to be engaged in new activities with those who did not were also examined. The sample of N = 169 older adults aged 60 years and above was drawn from a convenience sample of adult internet users in Croatia. Participants reported their self-perceived health and the number of leisure activities they engaged in over the previous year as well as completing the Flourishing Scale. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that older adults who were engaged in more various leisure activities, who perceived better financial status, and who were married reported higher levels of flourishing. A comparison of the two groups of older adults with and without engagement in leisure activities showed that those engaged in at least one leisure activity were more likely to be women, reported higher levels of flourishing, and perceived their own financial status as better. This study indicated that engaging in leisure activities in later life might provide beneficial effects for the well-being of older adults.

scholarly journals Contributors to and Consequences of Poor Sleep in Older Adults: Biopsychosocial Perspectives

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 578-578
Author(s):  
Adam Spira ◽  
Katie Stone
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Sleep Problems ◽  
Later Life ◽  
Poor Sleep ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Older Parents ◽  
Use Patterns ◽  
Health Related ◽  
Objectively Measured ◽  
Ecological Momentary

Abstract Sleep is a significant contributor to health and wellbeing across the lifespan, especially in later life. Poor sleep is common among older adults and can be both a risk factor for and consequence of numerous physical and mental health-related outcomes. In this symposium, we will present novel results from four studies that will advance understanding of the biological, psychological, and social factors that may contribute to or result from poor sleep in older adults. Specifically, Study 1 will present findings tying objectively measured sleep to performance on cognitive tasks administered using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) in the day-to-day lives of older adults with or without mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Study 2 will examine associations of personality dimensions and facets with insomnia symptoms in well-functioning older adults. Study 3 will examine psychological pathways linking parent-child relationships to subjective and objective sleep characteristics among older parents. Finally, study 4 will examine use patterns of cannabis for the treatment of sleep problems in older adults, and the ways in which this might differ from patients using cannabis for other reasons (e.g., pain). Together, this symposium will highlight novel links of an array of factors with sleep health in the aging population and their implications for prevention. Sleep, Circadian Rhythms and Aging Interest Group Sponsored Symposium.

Toward a conceptual model for successful transgender aging

2021 ◽  
pp. 147332502199466
Author(s):  
Steffany Sloan ◽  
Jacquelyn J Benson
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Successful Aging ◽  
Work Practice ◽  
Later Life ◽  
Theoretical Models ◽  
Social Work Practice ◽  
The Body ◽  
Aging Research ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Resilience Factors

Transgender older adults have been subject to life-long stigma and marginalization, resulting in significant social and health consequences. Despite these challenges, this population commonly reports thriving in later life. In order to attend to nuanced experiences of older transgender adults, theoretical models of successful aging must reflect complexities presented by gender minority status. In order to address theoretical gaps, a systematic qualitative meta-synthesis was conducted to summarize findings across the body of qualitative transgender aging research. Findings indicated that transgender older adults conceptualize successful aging through the process of embracing gender identity. Themes were identified to conceptualize successful transgender aging such as gender expression, shedding internalized stigma, and championing a resilience mindset. Implications for social work practice are provided, suggesting a more comprehensive understanding of both challenges and resilience factors amongst the aging transgender population.

scholarly journals Relative Importance of Positive Aging Dimensions Among Latino Older Adults and Service Providers

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 342-343
Author(s):  
Jennifer Smith ◽  
Cate O’Brien ◽  
Joseph Bihary
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Successful Aging ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Leisure Activities ◽  
Relative Importance ◽  
Positive Aging ◽  
Healthy Behaviors ◽  
Mean Differences ◽  
Positive Outlook ◽  
Latino Older Adults

Abstract The variation in Latino older adults’ conceptualizations of positive aging across studies suggests greater attention should be paid to within-group factors. The purpose of the current study was to identify which factors are important to positive aging from the perspective of Latino older adults, and whether the importance of these factors varied based on participant characteristics. A second aim of this study was to examine whether there are differences in views of successful aging between Latino older adults and service providers who support aging Latinos. The current study was conducted as part of a broader research project investigating Latino older adults’ perceptions of positive aging. Latino older adults (n = 93) and aging services providers (n = 45) rated the importance of a series of statements related to positive aging. Mixed-methods analysis of the statements identified nine distinct dimensions (Positive Outlook, Spirituality/Religion, Healthy Behaviors, Independence, Self-Care, Support for Others, Social Support, Leisure Activities, and Adaptability). Latino older adults rated Positive Outlook and Spirituality highest on importance, and ratings differed based on gender and other individual difference characteristics. For example, men placed greater relative importance on Independence and Support for Others compared to women, and younger participants rated Independence higher on importance compared to older participants. In addition, Latino older adults (vs. providers) placed greater importance on all aspects of positive aging, with greatest mean differences related to providing Support for Others and Spirituality. These findings have implications for wellness programs for Latino older adults and training for service providers.

scholarly journals THE EFFECTS OF CHRONIC PAIN AND LONELINESS ON FUNCTIONING AMONG LATINO AND WHITE OLDER ADULTS

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S585-S585
Author(s):  
David Camacho ◽  
Maria P Aranda ◽  
Denise Burnette ◽  
Ellen Lukens
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Chronic Pain ◽  
Social Life ◽  
Later Life ◽  
Interactive Effects ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Racially Diverse ◽  
Two Factors ◽  
Diverse Groups ◽  
White Adults

Abstract The detrimental effects of loneliness and chronic pain on functioning in later life are well documented, yet there is little evidence of whether these patterns hold across racially diverse older adults. Guided by the Biopsychosocial Model of Assessment, Prevention, and Treatment of Chronic Pain, we used data from Waves 2 and 3 of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP) to examine the additive and interactive effects of loneliness and chronic pain on Elemental and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (ADLs & IADLs) among a sample of 1046 Latino and White adults aged 50 and over. Using linear regression analyses, our final models (Adjusted R-squares: .316 & .304) included demographic characteristics, physical and mental health, medication, health behaviors and social factors. In this sample, approximately 33% experienced chronic pain, 50% reported at least transitory loneliness and 22% experienced both. Neither loneliness nor chronic pain was independently associated with functioning impairment. However, these two factors in combination were associated with lower scores on ADLs and I-ADLs. In addition, Latinos who reported chronic pain were more likely to report lower scores on ADLs only. Results highlight variations in the detrimental effects of loneliness and chronic pain for white and Latino elders. Findings suggest the need for interventions that address chronic pain and loneliness simultaneously. Future studies should examine how culturally-grounded experiences of loneliness and chronic pain may contribute to worsening of functioning among diverse groups of Latino elders.

scholarly journals THE ASSOCIATION OF LONELINESS AND CHRONIC CLINICALLY SIGNIFICANT PAIN AMONG AFRICAN AMERICAN AND WHITE OLDER ADULTS

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S613-S613
Author(s):  
David Camacho ◽  
Denise Burnette ◽  
Maria P Aranda ◽  
Ellen Lukens
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Chronic Pain ◽  
African American ◽  
African Americans ◽  
African American Women ◽  
Social Life ◽  
White Women ◽  
Later Life ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Biopsychosocial Model Of Pain

Abstract Loneliness and pain are significant public health problems in later life, yet limited research has examined how these factors interact among racially diverse older adults. Guided by the Biopsychosocial Model of Pain, we used data from Waves 2 and 3 of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project to investigate the relationship between loneliness and chronic pain among 1,102 African-American and White adults aged 50 and over. Using logistic regression analyses, our final models considered demographics, physical and mental health, functioning, medication, health behaviors and social factors. Approximately 32% of African Americans and 28% of Whites reported chronic loneliness. Compared to Whites African-Americans were 2.5 times more likely to experience chronic pain. Among White participants, loneliness was not associated with chronic pain; however, the interaction of being African-American and lonely was associated with decreased odds of chronic pain in main and gendered analyses. African American women were 4 times more likely than White women to report chronic pain. Our results address the objectives of the National Pain Strategy (2016) to elucidate the experiences of chronic pain among diverse elders in the US. Future work should seek a deeper understanding of loneliness and chronic pain among African Americans elders and how cultural dynamics may help explain our counter intuitive findings (e.g., “Superwoman Schema”).

scholarly journals STRESS AND PSYCHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS PREDICT CLUSTERED HEALTH TRAJECTORIES IN OLDER ADULTS

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S271-S271
Author(s):  
Myriam V Thoma ◽  
Jan Höltge ◽  
Shauna L Mc Gee ◽  
Andreas Maercker ◽  
Mareike Augsburger
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Chronic Stress ◽  
Successful Aging ◽  
Later Life ◽  
Psychological Characteristics ◽  
Survey Study ◽  
Older Individuals ◽  
Applied Machine Learning ◽  
Health Trajectories ◽  
One Year

Abstract The first aim of this study was the empirical identification of clustered health trajectories in older individuals, including an expected, more favorable or successful aging (SA) trajectory. The second aim was the identification and analysis of determinants useful for subgroup membership prediction. Particular focus was on early-life and chronic stress, as well as on a broad set of psychological characteristics, such as resilience, personality traits and general affect. A longitudinal survey study with two assessments one year apart has been conducted with older adults (N=224; mean age = 68 years; 72% women). The clustered health trajectories were identified using a longitudinal variant of k-means. For the prediction of subgroup allocation, random forests with conditional interferences were used. The applied machine learning-based approach revealed two latent clustered health trajectories: a ‘constant high health’ (66% of the sample) and a ‘maintaining low health’ trajectory (34%). Chronic stress and positive affect were found to be the most important predictors. Further predictors and their interactions were found to be important for predicting subgroup belonging, including resilience, self-esteem, social support, optimism, as well as negative affect and pessimism. Also, childhood adversities have to be included to predict subgroup belonging. With this study, we were able to show that individuals can be empirically allocated to two separate joint health trajectories in later life over the observation period of one year. In order to understand the current heterogeneity in health in older age, previous and current stress exposure and psychological characteristics have to be taken into account.

scholarly journals THE ROLE OF POLYGENIC SCORE AND COGNITIVE ACTIVITIES ON COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING OF OLDER ADULTS

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S255-S255
Author(s):  
Su Hyun Shin ◽  
Soohyun Park ◽  
Giyeon Kim
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Cognitive Functioning ◽  
Leisure Activities ◽  
Later Life ◽  
Genetic Traits ◽  
Polygenic Score ◽  
Crystallized Intelligence ◽  
Positive Effects ◽  
Cognitive Activities ◽  
Positive Effect

Abstract Purpose of study: This study investigated whether and to what extent genetics for cognition and engagement in cognitive activities are related to trajectories of cognitive functioning in older adulthood. Furthermore, we explored whether engaging in cognitive activities could moderate the effect of genetic traits on cognitive functioning in general and across different dimensions: fluid and crystallized intelligence. Design and Methods: Growth curve models were estimated using the sample of 3,129 individuals aged 50 or older (10,000 observations) in the U.S. from 2000-2012 waves of the Health and Retirement Study. Polygenic score for general cognition (PGS) was used to measure genetic traits for cognition, and the number of hours spent per week on each of nine cognitive activities was used to measure individuals’ level of the engagement in cognitive activities. Results: PGS for cognition, reading books, using a computer, and playing cards/games/solving puzzles had positive effects on cognitive functioning. The positive effect of PGS on cognitive functioning was reduced from excessive TV watching. The positive effect of PGS on cognitive functioning was strengthened by spending more hours reading papers/magazines. The measure of fluid, rather than crystallized intelligence, appeared to drive these results. Conclusion: Findings suggests that while genetic factors predict cognitive functioning, engaging in different types of cognitive activities could yield different cognitive functioning trajectories in later life. Practical implications are that older adults should be more selective when choosing their leisure activities to promote cognitive health.

The relationship between attitudes to aging and physical and mental health in older adults

2012 ◽  
Vol 24 (10) ◽  
pp. 1674-1683 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christina Bryant ◽  
Bei Bei ◽  
Kim Gilson ◽  
Angela Komiti ◽  
Henry Jackson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Physical Health ◽  
Successful Aging ◽  
Satisfaction With Life ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
Satisfaction With Life Scale ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Negative Stereotypes ◽  
Positive Attitudes

ABSTRACTBackground: Attitudes are known to exert a powerful influence on a range of behaviors. The objective of this study was to investigate the contribution of attitudes toward one's own aging to satisfaction with life and physical and mental health measured in a sample of community-dwelling older adults.Methods: Adults who were part of a larger study of health and well-being in rural and regional Australia aged ≥60 years (N = 421) completed a cross-sectional postal survey comprising the Attitudes to Aging Questionnaire, the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), the Satisfaction with Life Scale, the Geriatric Anxiety Inventory, and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale.Results: Overall, attitudes to aging were positive in this sample. More positive attitudes to aging were associated with higher levels of satisfaction with life, better self-report physical and mental health on the SF-12, and lower levels of anxiety and depression, after controlling for confounding variables. Better financial status and being employed were both associated with more positive attitudes to aging and better self-reported physical health. Relationship status was also significantly associated with mental health and satisfaction with life, but not physical health.Conclusion: The promotion of successful aging is increasingly becoming important in aging societies. Having positive attitudes to aging may contribute to healthier mental and physical outcomes in older adults. Overcoming negative stereotypes of aging through change at the societal and individual level may help to promote more successful aging.

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