Showing papers in "Clinical Gerontologist in 2021"
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined the impacts of COVID-19 lockdown on health and lifestyle factors for older adults in Sydney, Australia and found that older adults were adaptable and resilient during lockdown, demonstrating high uptake of new technologies to remain connected to others, while negative emotional health outcomes were linked to loneliness and unhelpful emotion regulation.
Abstract: Objectives: This study examined the impacts of COVID-19 lockdown on health and lifestyle factors for older adults in Sydney, Australia. The study examined demographic differences, social engagement, loneliness, physical activity, emotion regulation, technology use, and grandparenting experiences and their contribution to emotional health and quality of life during lockdown.Methods: Participants were 201 community-dwelling older adults (60-87 years, M = 70.55, SD = 6.50; 67.8% female) who completed self-report scales measuring physical and emotional health outcomes, quality of life, health service utilization, changes in diet and physical activity, impacts on grandparenting roles, and uptake of new technology.Results: One-third of older adults experienced depression, and 1 in 5 experienced elevated anxiety and/or psychological distress during lockdown. Specific emotion regulation strategies, better social and family engagement, and new technology use were associated with better emotional health and quality of life; 63% of older adults used new technologies to connect with others.Conclusions: Older adults were adaptable and resilient during lockdown, demonstrating high uptake of new technologies to remain connected to others, while negative emotional health outcomes were linked to loneliness and unhelpful emotion regulation.Clinical Implications: Further diversifying use of video technologies may facilitate improved physical and emotional health outcomes.
41 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, social participation has been shown to improve health, well-being, and quality of life in older adults, and the authors present a review on social participation for older adults.
Abstract: Objectives: Social participation has been shown to improve health, well-being, and quality of life in older adults. Previous reviews on social participation have been limited to identifying logisti...
40 citations
TL;DR: Evaluated interventions on hope among older populations found psychological interventions based on CBT alone or combined with antidepressants significantly decreased hopelessness in depressed older adults and life review effectively improved hope/hopelessness in a range of samples.
Abstract: Objectives: Hope/hopelessness is an important determinant of health and death, and is a modifiable risk factor for older adults. The present review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of interventi...
37 citations
TL;DR: A systematic review of CINAHL, Ovid EBM Reviews and Ovid Embase from 2000 to 2020 was conducted to examine post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and well-being in older adults under quarantine as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: Objectives: To examine post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and well-being in older adults under quarantine.Methods: A systematic review of CINAHL, Ovid EBM Reviews, Ovid Embase, Ovid Medline, Ovid PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science from 2000 to 2020 was conducted. Keywords included coronavirus, epidemic, quarantine, stress, mental health, and similar terms. Included studies enrolled participants under quarantine, quantitatively measured mental health or well-being, and characterized outcomes by age.Results: Of 894 initial results, 20 studies met the criteria and were included. Studies comprise 106,553 participants from eight countries, ages 6-100, two epidemics (COVID-19, SARS), and 27 assessment tools. One study found greater distress in older adults relative to younger adults, one found no significant differences, and 18 found lower negative outcomes in older participants in at least one metric.Conclusions: Older adults in this review generally have lower stress and less negative emotions under quarantine than younger adults. It is unknown how this compares to pre-pandemic measures. More representative and longitudinal studies are needed to measure the impact of quarantine on the mental health of older adults.Clinical Implications: As existing scales may not capture the full extent of pandemic psychological effects on older adults, clinicians must vigilantly monitor older adults' mental health.
27 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors describe how telephone-based training grounded in principles of cognitive rehabilitation can be used to remotely train older adults to use new technology and to help them maintain their community-based connections and engage in socialization.
Abstract: Objectives: We describe the evaluation of remote training, an innovative use of technology to maintain older adults' virtual connection with their community and socialization, which were disrupted by the pandemic. Remote training was conducted via telephone using principles of cognitive rehabilitation and delivered by trained clinicians.Methods: We thematically analyzed trainer reflection notes and interviews with older adult participants.Results: The main facilitators were technology training with exposure, and the main barrier was fear of technology.Conclusions: We describe how telephone-based training grounded in principles of cognitive rehabilitation can be used to remotely train older adults to use new technology and to help them maintain their community-based connections and engage in socialization.Clinical Implications: Fear of technology during the pandemic can cause significant impairment in social functioning for older adults, at least when the only method for socialization is technology mediated such as during the COVID-19 pandemic. Empathically delivered remote training in an understanding manner can reduce fear and increase social and community connections in the era of physical distancing.
25 citations
TL;DR: Older adults who begin using cannabis are likely using for what they perceive to be medicinal purposes for a range of issues, however, they receive minimal guidance from their family physicians and instead obtain information from non-clinician sources.
Abstract: Objectives: In Canada, cannabis prohibition ended in October 2018. Older adults are the fastest growing group of cannabis users and are out-pacing other groups as new users. Clinical evidence indicates that cannabis may be helpful for select medicinal purposes in this population. Yet there is limited research about older adults experiences of starting to use cannabis in later life. The purpose of this study was to begin to address this gap. Methods: This study employed qualitative description. A convenience sample of Canadian community-dwelling older adults who were new users of cannabis were recruited. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was inductive and thematic. Results: Twelve older adults between the ages of 71 and 85 participated. All of the participants used cannabis for medicinal reasons, however, only one had a prescription. The main reasons for using were: pain management, alternative to prescription or over-the-counter medication, and sleep aide. Most participants obtained cannabis from non-licensed stores. Eleven discussed cannabis use with their family physicians, however, none received prescriptions from them. The main sources of information were friends, cannabis store staff, and the media. Conclusions: Older adults who begin using cannabis are likely using for what they perceive to be medicinal purposes for a range of issues. However, they receive minimal guidance from their family physicians and instead obtain information from non-clinician sources. Clinical implications: Cannabis screening should be included in geriatric assessments and medicine reconciliation. Continuing education for clinicians needs to address knowledge gaps about cannabis use among older adults.
23 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigated the experiences of caregivers of people living with dementia during COVID-19 and recorded caregivers' perceptions of care before, during, and moving forward from the event, emphasizing positive experiences, coping strategies, creative care adaptation, strengths demonstrated, and benefits of providing care.
Abstract: Objectives: This project investigated experiences of caregivers of people living with dementia during COVID-19 We recorded caregivers' perceptions of care before, during, and moving forward from COVID-19, emphasizing positive experiences, coping strategies, creative care adaptation, strengths demonstrated, and benefits of providing careMethods: Allied health professionals conducted semi-structured interviews with 26 informal caregivers of people living with dementia We categorized and thematically analyzed responses as before, during or moving forward from COVID-19Results: A range of themes were derived from the data Pre-pandemic care: (1) focusing on the person living with dementia and (2) working together During-pandemic care: (1) respecting personhood; (2) connecting with virtues and values; (3) improving relationships; (4) seeking and receiving support; (5) prioritizing self-care; (6) being protective and proactive; (7) making practical changes Moving forward from COVID-19: (1) strengthening commitment to the person living with dementia, (2) looking after my own needs, and (3) considering practical requirementsConclusions: Participants reported positive caregiving experiences in all timeframes, focusing more on their own needs and experiences during and moving forward from COVID-19 This research may highlight informal caregivers' challenges and needsClinical implications: Enforced isolation produced deeper connections for some caregivers Caregivers benefit from resources facilitating adaptive care
23 citations
TL;DR: The findings reveal that social support is not only about the external resources that older adults need to cope with stressful life events, but also serves as an inner sustenance to make older adults less sensitive to the deleterious effects of poor health status and negative attitude toward aging.
Abstract: Objectives: This study aims to test the mediating effect of attitude toward aging and the moderating effect of social support in the association between perceived health status and depression in older adults. Methods: The study hypotheses were tested by using quantitative data collected from 6485 Chinese older adults. SPSS macro PROCESS was employed to analyze the data. Results: The results show that the relationship between perceived health status and depression in older adults is mediated by their attitude toward aging. In addition, both direct and indirect impacts of perceived health status on depression are significantly buffered by social support. Conclusions: This study suggests a potential mediating role of attitude toward aging and a moderating role of social support in the association between physical health and mental health among older adults. Clinical Implications: The findings of the study suggest that clinicians might need to consider attitudes toward aging along with social support as they work with older adults with comorbid physical illnesses and depression. The findings also reveal that social support is not only about the external resources that older adults need to cope with stressful life events, but also serves as an inner sustenance to make older adults less sensitive to the deleterious effects of poor health status and negative attitude toward aging.
19 citations
TL;DR: It is suggested that unbefriended older adults are frequently encountered in geriatrics practice, both in the inpatient and outpatient settings, and that there is widespread awareness of adult orphans in the outpatient setting.
Abstract: Objectives: Unbefriended older adults are those who lack the capacity to make medical decisions and do not have a completed advance directive that can guide treatment decisions or a surrogate decis...
18 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a large percentage of caregivers perceived a worsening of care-recipients' symptoms and negative emotions, an increase in the number of conflicts and thoughts of needing to give up caregiving.
Abstract: Objectives: To analyze caregivers' perceived impact of the pandemic in their mental health and the well-being of the care-recipients.Methods: Caregivers (N = 88) were asked if they had COVID-19 and about their perceptions of change of care-recipients' health conditions as well as whether their own mental health, conflicts with care-recipients and other relatives, thoughts of giving up caregiving, and feelings of coping well with the situation.Results: A large percentage of caregivers perceived a worsening of care-recipients' symptoms and of their own negative emotions, an increase in the number of conflicts and thoughts of needing to give up caregiving. Having had COVID-19 and reporting higher levels of distress as well as giving up caregiving were related to perceived worsening in care-recipients well-being. Perceived increases were mainly reported by younger caregivers, those who perceived to have not coped well, and those reporting an increase in conflicts. Some caregivers perceived an increase in positive emotions.Conclusions: The pandemic has a negative impact on caregivers' perceptions about the course of their own emotions and care-recipients' well-being.Clinical implications: Interventions are needed to train caregivers in strategies to cope with the sources of stress caused by the pandemic and to promote social support.
18 citations
TL;DR: The main strategies and solutions employed to reduce social isolation and facilitate the communication between older adults’ and their families were the use of information and communication technologies, family support groups, and the assignment of reference staff to each family.
Abstract: Objectives: To better understand the impact of visitor restrictions on nursing home residents and their families as well as strategies and actions that were conducted in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: A scoping review was carried out in October 2020. Several electronic databases were used: Cochrane Plus, Scopus, Web of Sciences and PubMed. 725 results were identified. We included 10 articles.Results: Thematic analysis obtained the following categories: the impact of COVID-19 on nursing home residents' lives and their families, procedures and frameworks of nursing homes during and after lockdown, and solutions and resources implemented by health care professionals to improve the connection between older people and their families.Conclusions: Visitor restrictions have a high impact on the health and well-being of older adults' and their families. The main strategies and solutions employed to reduce social isolation and facilitate the communication between older adults' and their families were the use of information and communication technologies, family support groups, and the assignment of reference staff to each family.Clinical implications: The strategies and solutions mentioned should be internationally considered by health care providers in nursing homes to improve connections between family and older adults.
TL;DR: Findings from a few robust randomized controlled trials suggest that nabilone might be useful for the treatment of agitation in patients with dementia, but there is no convincing evidence for THC.
Abstract: Objective: In the last decade, research has focused on developing novel medications for the treatment of dementia. Cannabinoids are one of the potential agents under investigation. The present study aimed to examine the evidence concerning the effectiveness of cannabinoids for the treatment of dementia. Methods: We undertook a systematic review complying to PRISMA guidelines. Four databases were searched including Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and PsychINFO. Results: Five studies evaluated the use of cannabinoids for anorexia and agitation in dementia. One study used dronabinol 5 mg/day to target anorexic symptoms of dementia which positively impacted on weight. Results of two trials investigating the effectiveness of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) 1.5-4.5 mg/day for the treatment of agitation indicated no significant differences between THC and placebo. The most recent trial reported significant improvement in agitation using nabilone at 1-2 mg/day. However, levels of evidence of these agents were rated as low and very low because of low sample size and methodology issues. No studies were available that investigated the use of cannabinoids to moderate cognitive symptoms in dementia. Conclusions: Findings from a few robust randomized controlled trials suggest that nabilone might be useful for the treatment of agitation in patients with dementia, but there is no convincing evidence for THC. Additional studies are needed to further clarify and assess the benefits of these treatments. Clinical Implications: There were no randomized controlled trials investigating the use of cannabinoids for the treatment of cognitive decline in dementia. Studies on THC reported no significant improvement in agitation. It may be too early to postulate that cannabinoids have any effect on dementia symptoms or their progression.
TL;DR: The findings suggest that older adults are open to medical cannabis as an alternative to pharmaceutical drugs, hopeful with regard to the management of symptoms and pain, and aware of and astute at managing issues related to stigma both from their physicians and family and friends.
Abstract: Objectives: Although the rate of cannabis use by older adults is increasing more quickly than all other age groups, little is known about the reasons older adults use cannabis and the outcomes they experience. With this research, we investigated older adults' perceptions and experiences of medical cannabis use to treat and/or manage chronic conditions, specifically as a substitute for prescription drugs. Methods: Researchers relied on qualitative inquiry in the form of semi-structured, one-on-one interviewing to investigate the phenomenon of medical cannabis use for the management of chronic conditions. Results: Our findings suggest that older adults are open to medical cannabis as an alternative to pharmaceutical drugs, hopeful with regard to the management of symptoms and pain, and aware of and astute at managing issues related to stigma both from their physicians and family and friends. Furthermore, older adults describe the frustrations with education, awareness, and lack of support with dosing. Conclusions: Participations found medical cannabis use to be beneficial in managing chronic conditions and alleviating symptoms such as chronic pain. Findings are presented as an interpretation of the participants' perceptions of their medical cannabis use. Implications for putting medical cannabis use into everyday practice as well as policy implications are considered. Clinical Implications: This information will help clinicians better support older adults desiring to use medical cannabis. This research will help clinicians learn more about factors impacting medical cannabis use, and the types of information and assistance that may aid older adults in their health and well-being with the use of medical cannabis to treat chronic conditions.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors obtained data on the prevalence of, contributors to, and supports required for pandemic-related distress within the residential aged care sector in Australia, using a nested mix of data.
Abstract: This study is the first to obtain data on the prevalence of, contributors to, and supports required for, pandemic-related distress within the residential aged care sector in Australia. A nested mix...
TL;DR: In this article, a comprehensive scoping review of the existing literature was conducted to determine what constitutes inclusive practices toward LGBT older adults in healthcare and social services and the supportive competencies of these practices.
Abstract: Objectives: To determine what constitutes inclusive practices toward LGBT older adults in healthcare and social services and the supportive competencies of these practices. Methods: A comprehensive scoping review of the existing literature was conducted.Results: To be competent when addressing LGBT elder needs, personnel must have knowledge on LGBT realities, openness and be able to put certain skills into practice.Conclusions: Given the limited powers conferred on them by their respective positions, institutions must also play a role in encouraging the inclusion of LGBT older adults. Beyond the importance of taking into account the three dimensions of competence in staff training, changes must be made at all levels of the organizational structures.Clinical implications: Inclusive practices require 1) Educating personnel on the diversity of the life journeys of LGBT older adults; 2) Promoting relational and communication skills and open, friendly attitudes toward the diversity of LGBT identities; 3) Developing policies and procedures to create and maintain inclusive and safe environments for LGBT older adults.
TL;DR: Older adults who had three to five network members with strong ties, a medium level of contact, and a high level of emotional closeness were less likely to experience depression than their counterparts.
Abstract: Objectives: This study aims to investigate the relationship between quantity, quality, and composition of social networks and depressive symptoms among U.S. Chinese older adults. Methods: Data were derived from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly (PINE) (N = 3,157), a study of Chinese older adults aged 60 and above in Chicago. We assessed quantitative (network size and volume of contact), qualitative (emotional closeness), and composition (proportion kin, proportion female and proportion coresident) aspects of social networks. Depressive symptoms were measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Negative binomial and logistic regressions were conducted. Results: Older adults who had three to five network members with strong ties, a medium level of contact, and a high level of emotional closeness were less likely to experience depression than their counterparts. Quantitative and qualitative dimensions of social networks have stronger protective effects than the composition dimension. Conclusions: U.S. Chinese older immigrants with different levels of social network characteristics have different risks of depression, suggesting targeted subpopulation assessments to facilitate the delivery of more appropriate and effective treatment to those most in need. Clinical Implications: Health-care professionals and social service agencies are suggested to develop intervention programs to promote mental health through increasing strong ties and improving the quality of social networks for U.S. Chinese older immigrants.
TL;DR: Correlates of dual cannabis and PPNR use/misuse among older adults are poor physical and mental health problems and problematic cannabis use.
Abstract: Objectives: To examine rates and correlates of dual cannabis and prescription pain reliever (PPNR) use and misuse among U.S. individuals aged 50+ who reported past-year cannabis use.Methods: Using ...
TL;DR: Frequent use of cannabis was associated with increased risk for mental health consequences related to cannabis use, which may dispose to adverse outcomes.
Abstract: Objectives: This paper reviews research on the topic of cannabis use and mental health harms in older adults and illustrates potential contributing factors and special clinical considerations for w...
TL;DR: It is suggested that the GDS-15 may be more accurate for screening depression in older adults with normal cognitive function, and its utility may be restricted because its diagnostic accuracy is slightly lower among Older adults with cognitive impairment.
Abstract: This up-to-date systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the predictive validity of the Geriatric Depression Scale-15 (GDS-15) for screening depression in older adults aged over 65 year...
TL;DR: The lack of attention to LGB older adults’ sexual health in healthcare settings may be exacerbated by ageism and heterosexism, leading these individuals to avoid disclosing their sexual orientations and avoid conversations about sexuality.
Abstract: Objectives: A significant gap in our knowledge concerns sexual health among the older lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) population.Methods: We compared a community-based sample of self-identified LG...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated the factors that caregivers perceive as barriers and facilitators to in-home video telehealth for dementia management in a semi-structured interview with community-dwelling Veterans with dementia.
Abstract: Objectives: Quality dementia care, which recognizes caregivers as vital care partners, is a scarce resource. Innovative solutions like video telehealth may increase the reach of extant clinicians; however, little is known about perceived barriers and facilitators to in-home video telehealth for dementia management from the perspectives of caregivers.Methods: Twenty-four caregivers of community-dwelling Veterans with dementia participated in semi-structured interviews. Questions gathered perceived facilitators and barriers to in-home video telehealth for dementia management through experience with related technology. Transcripts were analyzed using directed content analysis which was guided by factors previously identified as influencing older adults' adoption of technology.Results: Caregiver experience with related technology was mostly facilitative to video telehealth, which was thought best suited for follow-up care. Increased access and decreased patient-caregiver stress were potential benefits. Barriers included perceived limitations of video and the belief that persons with dementia would have limited ability to manage technological aspects and to engage in video telehealth on their own.Conclusions: This study improves our understanding of the factors that caregivers perceive as barriers and facilitators to in-home video telehealth for dementia management.Clinical Implications: Strategies to optimize video telehealth include capitalizing on caregivers' social network and providing targeted training.
TL;DR: How cannabis use outcomes fall into four independent factors is observed, and those using more frequently reported higher values on HRQL, HCU, and pain measures, however, the generalizability of the findings is cautious.
Abstract: To assess health-related outcomes associated with medical cannabis use among older patients in Colorado and Illinois enrolled in their home state’s medical cannabis program. Cross-sectional data fr...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors developed an 8-week virtual group treatment manual to address the emerging mental health needs of older Veterans in the context of chronic underlying mental health need (e.g., trauma).
Abstract: Objectives: During the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual and telephone visits rapidly replaced most in-person care within the Veterans Health Administration (VA) to reduce the virus spread. To address the emerging mental health needs of older Veterans (e.g., social isolation) in the context of chronic underlying mental health needs (e.g., trauma), we developed an 8-week virtual group treatment manual. This article describes the results from a survey of geriatric mental health clinicians who used the COVID group manual to determine its acceptability and feasibility in these settings.Methods: Clinicians across three VA integrated care settings (home-based primary care, community living centers, and geriatric primary care) were surveyed about their experiences implementing this treatment (n = 21).Results: Clinicians found this intervention to be effective with their patients and useful and adaptable beyond the early pandemic period.Conclusions: This group teletherapy intervention was feasible and acceptable when treating Veterans in integrated geriatric healthcare settings. Despite technical challenges experienced by older Veterans, clinicians found this manual to be effective in addressing COVID-related worry and social isolation.Clinical Implications: This rapid response manual has remained clinically useful in geriatric mental health care settings beyond the initial weeks of the pandemic.
TL;DR: In this article, residents in nursing homes are being isolated to prevent exposure to COVID-19, and extra isolation leaves them vulnerable to depression, anxiety, and loneliness, which can cause them to be vulnerable to compro...
Abstract: Objectives: Residents in nursing homes are being isolated to prevent exposure to COVID-19. Many are prone to depression, anxiety and loneliness, and extra isolation leaves them vulnerable to compro...
TL;DR: Pain, sleep disturbance, social support, and person-environment fit are modifiable risk factors, making them strongly positioned to strategically inform prevention and intervention strategies.
Abstract: Objectives: Depression among older adults in long-term care remains a problem, despite the uptake of antidepressants and the development of intervention programs. A better understanding of the risk...
TL;DR: This paper examined the effects of a guided online acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) intervention on distressed family caregivers of persons living with dementia and explored the effect of the intervention on their lives.
Abstract: Objectives: This study examined the effects of a guided online acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) intervention on distressed family caregivers of persons living with dementia and explored the
TL;DR: In this paper, a pilot study assessed clinical outcomes and quality care for persons with dementia in an acute hospital with PCC, compared with usual care, and found that PCC can improve care quality for people with dementia; nursing; agitation; paid caregivers with dementia and reduce behavioral/neuropsychiatric symptoms during short hospital stays.
Abstract: OBJECTIVES This pilot study assessed clinical outcomes and quality care for persons with dementia in an acute hospital with PCC, compared with usual care. METHODS Forty-seven consented persons 60 years and over with dementia were assigned to PCC (n = 26) or usual care (control) (n = 21). Hospital nurses and allied health staff received 3 h of face-to-face education in PCC, and practice support by four PCC-trained nurse champions. Control group staff received 3 h of face-to-face education on dementia and delirium care clinical guidelines. Primary outcomes behavioral/neuropsychiatric symptoms and care quality were analyzed based on repeated measures at baseline (Time 1), 4-5 days after baseline (Time 2) and day 8-10 after baseline (Time 3) where available. RESULTS Compared with controls, at Time 2 PCC produced statistically significant improvements in behavioral/neuropsychiatric symptoms (adjusted p = .036) and care quality (adjusted p = .044). Where length of stay exceeded 8 days after baseline (Time 3), there was a sustained improvement in quality care (p = .007), but not in behavioral/neuropsychiatric symptoms (p = .27). CONCLUSIONS PCC can improve care quality for persons with dementia; nursing; agitation; paid caregivers with dementia and reduce behavioral/neuropsychiatric symptoms during short hospital stays. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Hospital systems need to support PCC to reduce behavioral/neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia during long hospital stays.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors compared the effect of online versus on-site psycho-educative interventions on caregivers' emotional burden, including their sense of burden, anxiety, and depression.
Abstract: Objectives: The purpose of this project was to comparatively assess the benefit from the effects of the online versus onsite psychoeducative interventions on caregivers' emotional burden, including their sense of burden, anxiety, and depression.Methods: Seventy-one caregivers of Patients with Dementia (PwD) were divided in two groups, the online versus the onsite, and participated in the 4-month psychoeducational group intervention. Psychosocial assessment was performed using Beck Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory and Zarit Burden Interview before and after the intervention.Results: No significant differences were found between the online and onsite groups in anxiety (p = .531), depression (p = .577) and sense of burden (p = .623) after the interventions. Both interventions showed significant reductions across emotional variables measured over the course of the treatment study and treatment interventions.Conclusions: Both online and onsite interventions are effective at improving emotional health as they reduce the level of anxiety, depression, and sense of caregiver burden.Clinical implications: The use of online psychoeducative interventions is indicative for use by clinicians who work with dementia caregivers as compared to the onsite ones. Therefore, they may be assumed as having significant utility in dementia caregivers, especially when being adapted during the recent confinement measures due to the coronavirus disease pandemic (COVID-19).
TL;DR: Older adults may be more resilient to the impacts of the pandemic than younger cohorts and thus may serve as a critical resource for how to navigate crisis situations of this nature.
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: This study compared emotional and physical health and overall well-being related to social restrictions during the pandemic among older, middle-aged, and younger adults in the United States (n = 276). METHODS: Online surveys collected information on mental and physical health, as well as positive and negative impacts of the pandemic. One-way MANOVAs and hierarchical regressions were used to analyze data. RESULTS: Depressive symptoms and coronavirus anxiety differed significantly by age, with older adults reporting less depressive and anxious symptoms than younger cohorts. Negative COVID experiences significantly predicted higher levels of stress, anxiety, and insomnia symptoms in younger adults as compared to older cohorts. CONCLUSIONS: Findings indicate that social restrictions had a more substantial negative impact amongst younger adults compared to older adults, particularly in terms of mental health and well-being. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Older adults may be more resilient to the impacts of the pandemic than younger cohorts and thus may serve as a critical resource for how to navigate crisis situations of this nature. Future studies should continue to monitor health outcomes as the pandemic subsides in conjunction with the vaccine rollout, as the long-term effects of social distancing and stay-at-home measures are yet to be determined.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors explored the psychological effects of COVID-19 public health measures on older adults in Uganda and their coping mechanisms and found that older adults experienced both psychological and physical effects, including upset, fear, and frustration about restrictions and the virus, as well as early signs of increased frailty, thus causing concerns for the long-term emotional and physical health of older Ugandans.
Abstract: Objectives: Older adults across the globe have been particularly affected by the novel coronavirus due to their increased susceptibility to the virus. With limited existing research, the aim of this study was to explore the psychological effects of COVID-19 public health measures on older adults in Uganda and their coping mechanisms.Methods: Thirty semi-structured interviews were conducted with older Ugandans (aged 60+) in June 2020. Participants were asked about their experiences of public health measures, and their effects on the lives of older adults compared to pre-pandemic.Results: Three themes were identified: Impact on emotional well-being; Implications on physical well-being; and Coping mechanisms. Older adults experienced both psychological and physical effects, including upset, fear, and frustration about restrictions and the virus, as well as early signs of increased frailty, thus causing concerns for the long-term emotional and physical health of older Ugandans.Conclusions: Public health measures need to be considerate of the potential long-term implications on the well-being of older adults in low-, middle-, and high-income countries, and ensure the possibility for continued physical exercise and social connection. This can be particularly challenging for people from more disadvantaged backgrounds who may not be able to afford a smartphone or laptop, with older adults further requiring support in using digital technologies.Clinical Implications: Older adults need to receive adequate psychological support to cope with the mental health impacts of the pandemic.