J. Ageing Longev., Volume 5, Issue 1 (March 2025) – 10 articles

This article explores the transformative potential of Artful Ageing as a conceptual framework for enriching experiences in later life. By synthesising Manning’s theory of minor gestures with Basting’s creative care approach, the article demonstrates how Artful Ageing fundamentally reconfigures our understanding of the ageing experience. The findings indicate that this framework transforms ageing from a narrative of decline into a dynamic process of becoming, where physical and existential spaces intertwine to create opportunities for emancipatory experiences. The transformative power emerges through what Manning terms “art-as-practice” and Basting describes as “moments of awe”—small, ephemeral encounters that carry profound potential for connection and meaning-making. This study reveals how Artful Ageing transforms conventional care environments into cultural spaces where creativity becomes embedded in everyday interactions rather than isolated to scheduled activities. The author identifies how this approach enables a shift from outcome-oriented interventions focused primarily on physical health to process-oriented engagements that honour the non-rational and in-between elements of ageing lives. The research demonstrates that when implemented, Artful Ageing transforms not only individual experiences but also relational dynamics and institutional structures, challenging biopolitical agendas embedded in current regimes of active ageing. This transformative framework ultimately offers new pathways for understanding and supporting meaningful engagement throughout later life. Full article

This review and discussion article is based on a literature review of selected materials and is devoted to the role of research agendas in linking research and policy in the field of ageing and longevity. After emphasizing the importance of research evidence in international policy frameworks on ageing and defining the main parameters of research agendas, the authors turn to describing how research agendas can play a key role in bridging research and policy on population ageing and individual longevity. Examples of international (global), regional and national research agendas are presented. Finally, the authors reflect on the benefits and current limitations of research agendas in supporting evidence-based policy and highlight the potential role of research agendas in developing appropriate and timely responses to the challenges and opportunities of population ageing and individual longevity. Full article

A 7-week group-based cooking program led by an occupational therapist was developed for older adult clients in Senior Care Centres (SCCs) in Singapore. This study aimed to test this cooking program’s feasibility and clinical effects in a SCC. A mixed-methods study design was implemented over 3 months, which included a 7-week intervention and a booster session 1-month post-intervention. Eligible participants were screened for participation. Feasibility was assessed by recording recruitment, attendance and attrition rates. Pre- and post-assessments, including community mobility, physical function and self-perceived quality of life, at three time points, were conducted to measure functional changes. Quantitative data were analysed using repeated measure analysis of variance, and all interviews were audio-recorded with permission and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis. Six out of seven participants completed the program with a high attendance rate (80.4%). Participants demonstrated improvements in physical functions and community mobility immediately after the intervention and at a one-month follow-up. Participants shared their motivational factors for participating and demonstrated positive changes in lifestyle routines, dietary habits, and nutritional knowledge. Social and personal factors were found to play a crucial role in their compliance and active participation in the program. Our finding suggests that a structured cooking program for older adults at an SCC is acceptable and feasible in Singapore. Finetuning of the program content is necessary before conducting a larger study. Full article

Age discrimination in nursing may result in judgmental care and compromise the quality of care offered to older adults. While geriatric–gerontological education can address ageism among nursing students, cross-cultural perspectives on aging remain understudied. This study describes the characteristics of nursing students in the USA and Japan and explores their perspectives on aging after completing a life review assignment, both personally and professionally. A mixed-methods study using quantitative surveys and an exploratory–descriptive qualitative design was conducted at two nursing schools (one each in the USA and Japan). Students participated voluntarily with strict anonymity and confidentiality. There were significant differences between American and Japanese nursing students in both demographics and perceived impact of the life review assignment. The American students were predominantly older and had more experience in caregiving for older adults, whereas the Japanese students were younger and lacked such experience. The qualitative analysis revealed an increased awareness of patient-centered care for older adults as a major professional theme across both groups. The life review assignment proved effective in providing meaningful experiential learning opportunities for future nurses across different cultural contexts. This method appears promising in addressing ageism through personalized engagement with older adults. Full article

Age-related hearing loss is becoming more prevalent as the aging population continues to rise worldwide. Left untreated, hearing loss is a significantly under-reported concern that negatively impacts quality of life including mental health, cognition, and healthcare communication. Since many older adults may not report hearing concerns to their primary physicians, allied healthcare providers (AHPs) have an important role in recognizing communication challenges due to potential hearing loss, screening for hearing issues, and making referrals as needed. Moreover, AHPs may need to address hearing loss, at least temporarily, to provide their services when communication problems are present. The purpose of this study was to examine knowledge and practice patterns of AHPs regarding hearing loss among their patients. Results of a national survey indicated that many AHPs understand the negative implications of unaddressed hearing loss and the importance of hearing screening, but they are unsure of who, when, and how to address it. Consequently, immediate and innovative solutions are offered to AHPs to enhance communication with patients who might have unaddressed hearing loss. Moreover, findings can be used to develop training and policies to ensure that professionals are well positioned to address the complex needs of individuals with unaddressed hearing loss. Full article

Background: The global population is experiencing a demographic shift towards older ages, which has the potential to increase the prevalence of ageing-related diseases and associated healthcare costs. Promoting healthy ageing behaviours, such as physical and social activity, has been shown to reduce disability and frailty among older people and improve their life satisfaction. To this aim, several Healthy Ageing Centres have been established across nine municipalities in Bosnia and Herzegovina to support healthy ageing behaviours in older populations. This cross-sectional study hypothesises that participation in these centres will be associated with an increase in healthy behaviours. Methods: This exploratory study compares the behaviours of Healthy Ageing Centre members (n = 399) and non-members (n = 55) to assess if participation in Healthy Ageing Centres is associated with healthy ageing behaviours such as physical activity, social interactions, and life satisfaction. Results: Members at Healthy Ageing Centres had a higher life satisfaction, exercised for significantly longer, and engaged in social activities more frequently than non-members. No differences were found in diet, alcohol consumption or loneliness levels. Conclusions: The present study highlights the positive behaviours associated with attending Healthy Ageing Centres, suggesting that their establishment in ageing populations could be beneficial for supporting healthy ageing. Full article

Age-related declines in muscle mass, neuromuscular, and physical function can be mitigated by resistance training (RT). Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (Ω-3 PUFAs) supplementation has shown benefits in older adults. However, it remains unclear if combining Ω-3 PUFAs with RT is more effective than RT alone or with placebo. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Ω-3 PUFAs combined with RT compared to RT alone or placebo on muscle mass and function in healthy older adults (≥65 y). Databases such as PubMed, Embase, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science were searched on 11 April 2024. No restriction on language or publication date was implemented. Mean differences (MDs) or standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals and pooled effects were calculated. Nine studies (n = 286, 54% men) met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis found no significant effect of Ω-3 PUFAs on muscle mass or neuromuscular function but a large effect on chair-rise performance. Potential impact of Ω-3 PUFAs dose, duration, or sex were not observed. Most studies had varying levels of bias, and none met recommended quality standards for investigating Ω-3 PUFAs, but findings suggest no clear advantage of combining Ω-3 PUFAs with RT. Full article

Background: Smart home technologies (SHTs) hold promise for supporting older adults by enabling early detection and intervention in mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. However, adoption remains limited due to usability, accessibility, and privacy concerns. Methods: This narrative review examined the literature from 2010 to early 2024 related to SHTs and their impact on older adults’ mental health. In total, 34 relevant studies met the inclusion criteria, and also, a standardized quality assessment tool was used to evaluate the methodological soundness of the included studies. Results: Findings reveal that interface complexity, cognitive overload, high costs, and privacy concerns are significant barriers to adoption. Accessibility challenges, including physical and sensory impairments, further reduce engagement and inclusivity. Key facilitators for user acceptance include user-centric design, personalization, participatory co-development, and cultural adaptations. SHTs incorporating AI-driven features, such as behavioral monitoring, medication reminders, and social engagement tools, demonstrate significant potential for early mental health interventions. Based on these findings, we propose a holistic framework integrating technical innovation with human-centered design to address these challenges and optimize SHTs for mental healthcare. Conclusions: Tailored systems that prioritize usability, accessibility, ethical data management, and user feedback can empower older adults to maintain autonomy, support aging in place, and enhance their quality of life with dignity. Full article

This study introduces racial capitalism, the theory that racism and capitalistic exploitation are inextricably linked, into psychology and gerontology by exploring its mental impact across different age groups of Black Americans. Using Constructivist Grounded Theory (CGT), 27 participants from diverse age groups and socioeconomic statuses were interviewed via theoretical and purposive sampling. In-depth interviews were conducted to examine their lived experiences of racial capitalism and its evolving mental health impact. Data collection continued until thematic saturation was reached, and analysis followed an iterative coding process to identify emergent themes. The analysis revealed three themes: Individual-level racism impacts older adults’ mental well-being; middle-aged adults are learning from older adults’ poor mental health awareness; and younger adults are mentally struggling under the weight of capitalistic exploitation. Older adults primarily focused on individual-level racism earlier in life, maintaining a generally positive outlook. Middle-aged adults reflected on limited mental health awareness passed down from older cohorts and the strain of limited generational wealth transfer. Younger participants expressed heightened mental distress due to contemporary systemic racism and exploitation. These findings informed the development of Cumulative Racial Capitalism Theory (CRCT), a framework theorizing how racism and capitalism continually evolve, cumulatively impacting Black Americans’ mental health. Full article

Hyponatremia, a common electrolyte imbalance in older adults, results from physiological aging, medication use, and comorbidities, with significant implications for morbidity and quality of life. This narrative review aims to explore the impact of dietary habits and nutritional deficiencies on the development and management of hyponatremia in this population. A literature search identified relevant studies addressing the risk factors related to sodium balance, dietary intake, and nutrition. The key findings reveal that low sodium and age-related changes increase vulnerability to hyponatremia and its associated risks, including cognitive decline and falls. Nutritional strategies, such as optimizing sodium and protein intake and reducing processed food consumption, may offer preventative benefits. Future research should focus on tailored dietary interventions and establishing sodium intake guidelines specific to older adults. Implementing such strategies could improve the health outcomes and reduce the healthcare costs associated with hyponatremia in older populations. Full article