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12 pages, 530 KiB  
Article
Diminished Social and Leisure Engagement in Community Dwelling-Older Adults with Apathy
by Katherine J. Valles, Emmeline Ayers, Joe Verghese and Mirnova E. Ceïde
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(7), 1138; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22071138 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 292
Abstract
Background: Apathy predicts functional and cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults. However, the behavioral correlates of apathy, which could promote cognitive decline have not been described. Our objective was to investigate the associations of apathy with leisure and social engagement. Methods: N = [...] Read more.
Background: Apathy predicts functional and cognitive decline in community-dwelling older adults. However, the behavioral correlates of apathy, which could promote cognitive decline have not been described. Our objective was to investigate the associations of apathy with leisure and social engagement. Methods: N = 538 older adults enrolled in the Central Control of Mobility in Aging study. We used the GDS3A, a 3-item subscale of the Geriatric Depression Scale, to define apathy and the frequency of participation in cognitive, physical, and social leisure activities. Linear regression models were conducted to assess the association between apathy and its behavioral correlates: social engagement and leisure activity participation. Covariates included age, gender, education level, multimorbidity, and dysphoria. Results: Apathy was present in 29.7% of participants and was significantly associated with less frequent participation in physical activity days per week (−1.688. p = 0.003) but not cognitive (−1.094, p = 0.252) or social (−0.654, p = 0.103) leisure activities. Apathy was also associated with a decreased social behavior composite score (−0.055, p < 0.001), Social Network Index (−0.478, p = 0.003), and Medical Outcomes Study Social Support scores (−0.26, p = 0.001). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that apathy presents with reduced participation in physical leisure activities and reduced social engagement, which may provide a way for clinicians and caregivers to identify apathy in the future. Full article
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12 pages, 679 KiB  
Article
Systematic Intervention with Formal Caregivers to Promote Nutritional Health of Older People with Dementia: An Impact Evaluation Study
by Paola Sarmiento-González, María Elisa Moreno-Fergusson, Alejandra Rojas-Rivera, Juan Alcides Cuadros-Mojica, Bibiana Ramírez-Pulido and Beatriz Sánchez-Herrera
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(6), 849; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22060849 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 664
Abstract
Nutritional health is essential for older people with dementia. Their feeding is a challenge for which caregivers are not always ready, and an intervention that supports them may have a significant social impact. The aim of this project is to design and evaluate [...] Read more.
Nutritional health is essential for older people with dementia. Their feeding is a challenge for which caregivers are not always ready, and an intervention that supports them may have a significant social impact. The aim of this project is to design and evaluate the impact of systematic nursing intervention with formal caregivers to promote nutritional health for older people with dementia. This is a “Nursing Methodology Research” study conducted with formal caregivers of older people with dementia in four Colombian nursing homes. It includes three consecutive phases: (1) systematic intervention design under Whittemore and Grey’s parameters, (2) intervention validation with seven international experts, and (3) measurement of intervention impact, which included a quasi-experimental pre-test–post-test design. The “Nurturing Neurons—Formal Caregivers” intervention met the criteria of systematic health interventions. In response to the work and personal requirements of formal caregivers, the intervention used a tele-support modality. Its content validity ratio (CVR) ranged from 0.88 to 0.92; its content validity index (CVI) was 0.90. The experience was positive for the participant caregivers (94.9%) and professional providers (92.5%). The overall caregivers’ caring competence changed from the medium, 78.1, to the high category, 91.5 (p < 0.001). Their perceived burden of care changed from 70.4 to 63.6 (p < 0.001). In conclusion, “Nurturing Neurons—Formal Caregivers” achieved a positive impact, with changes in the structure, processes, and outputs to promote the nutritional health of older people with dementia. It led to a significant improvement in formal caregivers’ caring competence and decreased their perceived care burden. Its cost–benefit was favorable; it generated health equity for a vulnerable population and achieved unexpected benefits in the context. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Advances in Nursing Practice in Latin America)
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13 pages, 668 KiB  
Review
Comprehensive Strategies for Preventive Periodontal Care in Older Adults
by Alice Kit Ying Chan, Yiu-Cheung Tsang, Stephanie Chu and Chun-Hung Chu
Geriatrics 2025, 10(3), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics10030072 - 25 May 2025
Viewed by 662
Abstract
Background: Periodontal health is closely related to systemic health and crucial for healthy aging. Periodontal disease is prevalent among older adults due to declined systemic conditions, medication side effects, and reduced dexterity and cognition. Effective preventive care is essential to maintain periodontal health [...] Read more.
Background: Periodontal health is closely related to systemic health and crucial for healthy aging. Periodontal disease is prevalent among older adults due to declined systemic conditions, medication side effects, and reduced dexterity and cognition. Effective preventive care is essential to maintain periodontal health and promote oral and general health. Objective: The aim of this narrative review is to examine preventive periodontal care tailored for older individuals, with a focus on strategies to reduce the incidence of periodontal disease, maintain periodontal health, and improve the overall well-being of older adults. Findings: Preventive periodontal care includes mechanical plaque control, use of chemotherapeutic agents, lifestyle modifications, and regular professional periodontal care. Mechanical plaque control through regular toothbrushing and interdental cleaning remains the cornerstone of prevention. The use of adaptive aids and caregiver support is essential for maintaining the oral hygiene of older adults with physical limitations. Chemotherapeutic agents, such as chlorhexidine mouth rinses, can be used as adjunctive agents for plaque control. Lifestyle modifications, like smoking cessation and dietary adjustments, are crucial components of risk factor control. Professional periodontal care, including periodontal evaluation, risk factor control, tailored oral hygiene instruction, and professional mechanical plaque removal, are essential for the prevention and early detection and management of periodontal disease in older adults. Conclusions: This review underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving oral healthcare professionals, primary care providers, and caregivers to ensure patient-centered, integrated and comprehensive geriatric care to improve periodontal outcomes and overall well-being of older adults. Full article
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15 pages, 511 KiB  
Article
A Digital-Health Program Based on Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment for the Management of Older People at Their Home: Final Recommendations from the MULTIPLAT_AGE Network Project
by Alberto Pilotto, Carolina Massone, Guido Iaccarino, Armando Genazzani, Carlo Trompetto, Gennarina Arabia, Wanda Morganti, Emanuele Seminerio, Maddalena Illario, Luigi Castello, Laura Mori, Loris Pignolo and Romina Custureri
Healthcare 2025, 13(10), 1105; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13101105 - 9 May 2025
Viewed by 556
Abstract
Background: The MULTIPLAT_AGE is a network project which developed a digital platform based on the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) for collecting data and identifying personalized healthcare programs for older people at home. In this article, the final recommendations of the MULTIPLAT_AGE Working Group [...] Read more.
Background: The MULTIPLAT_AGE is a network project which developed a digital platform based on the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) for collecting data and identifying personalized healthcare programs for older people at home. In this article, the final recommendations of the MULTIPLAT_AGE Working Group are reported. Methods: The MULTIPLAT_AGE project included five independent studies developed and carried out by five research centers according to two common principles previously shared by the researchers: (i) the multidimensional approach to older people through the CGA-based Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI); (ii) the use of a common web-based platform for collecting data to facilitate healthcare interventions of older people at their home according to the aging in place approach. At the end of the studies, a series of recommendations have been proposed by an expert panel including the principal investigators and discussed by all researchers involved in the MULTIPLAT_AGE project in formal meetings. After discussion, the recommendations have been approved with formal vote by all the researchers during the final meeting of the MULTIPLAT_AGE project. Results: The recommendations are addressed to healthcare providers, policy decision-makers, caregivers, and patients. In summary, the CGA-based interventions and technologies adopted in the MULTIPLAT_AGE project reduced length of hospital stay, improved multidimensional frailty, walking safety, physical and cognitive performances, and reduced fear of falling in older people across different clinical settings and suffering from different diseases. Conclusions: The final recommendations of the MULTIPLAT_AGE Working Group could be a useful instrument to facilitate the use of technologies along with CGA-based interventions to improve the management of older people at home. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Interprofessional Care and Training)
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20 pages, 505 KiB  
Article
A University’s Role in Developing a Regional Network of Dementia Friendly Communities
by Laurel Standiford Reyes, M. C. Ehlman, Suzanne Leahy and Reagan Lawrence
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(5), 721; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22050721 - 1 May 2025
Viewed by 601
Abstract
Introduction: The World Health Organization has identified dementia as a growing global health concern with 10 million new cases diagnosed every year. The growing number of people living with dementia (PLWD) heightens the need for effective interventions that support PLWD and their caregivers. [...] Read more.
Introduction: The World Health Organization has identified dementia as a growing global health concern with 10 million new cases diagnosed every year. The growing number of people living with dementia (PLWD) heightens the need for effective interventions that support PLWD and their caregivers. The most effective interventions supporting PLWD and caregivers combine education, care, and services to increase knowledge, decrease stigma, improve care, heighten empathy, and increase engagement of PLWD in their communities. Dementia Friendly America (DFA), administered by USAging, promotes a Dementia Friendly Community (DFC) initiative designed to engage multiple sectors (e.g., business, healthcare, community services) and engage PLWD in a comprehensive community change process. A center for healthy aging and wellness at a midwestern public university developed a network approach in its regional support of eight DFCs, as a part of its Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program funded by the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration. Objective: This article documents a mid-size university’s approach to establishing a regional DFC network of urban and rural communities surrounding the university, describing the support the university provided as well as how communities implemented the four-phase DFC process and emulated guiding principles. Results: A retrospective evaluation found engagement with the DFA guiding principles and varying levels of adherence to DFC phases. Discussion: The project team suggests that there are unique roles that universities can play in supporting the DFC movement and that developing a network of communities is a helpful strategy to use in providing this support. Additionally, the authors propose the integration of a community change model to guide future DFC work. Conclusions: This article helps to fill an existing research gap concerning DFC implementation and explores the unique role academic partners can play in cultivating regional hubs of DFC activity. Full article
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14 pages, 257 KiB  
Article
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living in Neurocognitive Disorders: Determinants and Clinical Implications for Health Promotion
by Anna Tsiakiri, Spyridon Plakias, Christos Kokkotis, Pinelopi Vlotinou, Sotiria Kyriazidou, Georgios Giarmatzis, Stylianos Kallivoulos, Aikaterini Terzoudi, Dimitrios Tsiptsios, Souzana Merai, Chrysoula Emmanouilidou, Christos Kariotis, Anna Kanidou, Nikolaos Aggelousis, Konstantinos Vadikolias and Foteini Christidi
Brain Sci. 2025, 15(4), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15040417 - 19 Apr 2025
Viewed by 2302
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) are the key indicators of the autonomy and functional ability in older adults with neurocognitive disorders (NCDs). However, the specific predictors of IADL performance across the NCD spectrum remains insufficiently characterized. This study aimed to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) are the key indicators of the autonomy and functional ability in older adults with neurocognitive disorders (NCDs). However, the specific predictors of IADL performance across the NCD spectrum remains insufficiently characterized. This study aimed to identify the cognitive, motor, and caregiver-related determinants of the IADL in individuals with minor and major NCDs. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 117 participants referred from a university-based dementia clinic. Standardized tools were administered to evaluate their IADL performance (Lawton IADL Scale), cognition [Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination III (ACE-III)], Functional Cognitive Assessment Scale (FUCAS)], motor functions, balance, and mobility [Tinetti Test, Timed Up and Go (TUG)], emotional status [Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS)], neuropsychiatric symptoms [Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI)], and caregiver burden [Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI)]. Multiple regression analyses were performed to identify the significant predictors of IADL performance. Results: In the total sample (n = 117), the IADL performance was significantly predicted via ACE-III, FUCAS, and Tinetti-balance (adjusted R2 = 0.729). In the minor NCD group (n = 41), the significant predictors included sex, FUCAS, GDS, Tinetti-balance, and TUG (adjusted R2 = 0.725). In the major NCD group (n = 76), ACE-III, FUCAS, and Tinetti-balance remained the significant predictors (adjusted R2 = 0.634). Female sex and a worse profile on the other variables were associated with lower IADL scores. Conclusions: Global cognitive decline, executive dysfunction in everyday problem-solving situations, and balance impairment are the key determinants of IADL performance across both minor and major NCDs. Female sex and depressive symptoms further predicted the IADL performance in the minor NCD group. These findings highlight the need for multidisciplinary assessment and intervention strategies to promote health and autonomy and preserve the functional independence in older adults with NCDs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Perspectives of Neurological Disorders: Series II)
12 pages, 242 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Needs of Elderly People in a Home Environment: Perspectives from Patients, Caregivers, and a Family Nurse
by Marlena Szewczyczak, Dorota Talarska, Magdalena Strugała, Patrycja Talarska-Kulczyk, Kamila Kawecka, Katarzyna Wieczorowska-Tobis and Sławomir Tobis
Healthcare 2025, 13(8), 860; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13080860 - 9 Apr 2025
Viewed by 582
Abstract
Background: Social demographic changes contribute to increased life expectancy and disability. The ability to maintain independence depends on receiving appropriate support. This study aimed to analyze the needs of individuals over 75 years of age living in a home environment. Methods: A cross-sectional [...] Read more.
Background: Social demographic changes contribute to increased life expectancy and disability. The ability to maintain independence depends on receiving appropriate support. This study aimed to analyze the needs of individuals over 75 years of age living in a home environment. Methods: A cross-sectional study assessed support needs from the perspectives of the patient, caregiver, and researcher. The following research tools were used: Camberwell Assessment of Need for the Elderly (CANE), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Barthel Index, and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Results: The average total number of needs reported by the patients was 5.0 ± 2.9, by caregivers 6.63 ± 2.98, and by researchers 5.76 ± 3.43. The most frequently reported unmet needs were related to Accommodation, Company, and Eyesight/Hearing/Communication. A higher number of met needs (p = 0.006) and total needs (p = 0.011) was observed in individuals aged 85 and older and in seniors who had a caregiver (p < 0.001). Lower functional ability was an indicator of a higher number of met needs (p < 0.001). Cognitive function did not affect the number of reported needs. A correlation was found between the number of needs and depressive symptoms. The total number of needs reported by patients was significantly lower than the number reported by healthcare personnel and caregivers. Conclusions: The CANE questionnaire enabled the identification of individual care needs in the elderly. Although unmet needs were in areas that could be easily addressed, elderly individuals did not receive adequate support. Researchers and caregivers identified more met and unmet needs than the elderly individuals themselves. Full article
17 pages, 273 KiB  
Article
Cross-Cultural Ageism: Perspectives from Nursing Students in the USA and Japan
by Therese Doan, Sumiyo Brennan, Jongmi Seo, Hisao Osada and Michiyo Bando
J. Ageing Longev. 2025, 5(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/jal5010007 - 26 Feb 2025
Viewed by 941
Abstract
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 [...] Read more.
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
16 pages, 313 KiB  
Article
Substantial Impact of Later-Life Depression Among Community Older Adults on the Family Caregivers’ Burden in the Home Care Setting of Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand
by Keisuke Shimizu, Myo Nyein Aung, Saiyud Moolphate, Thin Nyein Nyein Aung, Yuka Koyanagi, Siripen Supakankunti and Motoyuki Yuasa
Medicina 2025, 61(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61010050 - 1 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1616
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Depression is a common geriatric problem globally. It is particularly burdensome in low- and middle-income countries, where care for older people mainly relies on the family in the absence of long-term care facilities. This study aimed to assess the [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Depression is a common geriatric problem globally. It is particularly burdensome in low- and middle-income countries, where care for older people mainly relies on the family in the absence of long-term care facilities. This study aimed to assess the level of caregivers’ burden among family caregivers who are taking care of older persons with depression in the home care setting within the communities of Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study investigated 867 pairs of community-dwelling older adults and their family caregivers in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The depression of older people was screened using the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale. The family caregivers’ burden and quality of life were measured using the Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI) and the European Quality of Life (EQ) Five Dimension Five Level scales. The analysis applied was multivariable regression. Results: Two-thirds of the family caregivers were female. The mean age was 55.3 ± 13.8 years. The family caregivers caring for older persons with depression experienced significantly higher levels of burden in terms of the CBI total score (Coefficient: 10.60, 95% CI: 8.60, 12.60) and lower quality of life in terms of the EQ visual analogue scale (Coefficient: −5.52, 95% CI: −8.41, −2.62). They were more likely to take sick leave from their jobs (adj. OR 4.00, 95% CI: 1.73, 9.24) and more often to get sick (adjusted OR 7.26, 95% CI: 2.68, 19.64) than the caregivers of older adults without depression. Conclusions: Urgent interventions to prevent depression among older adults and systematic support to relieve family caregiver burden are necessary. The measures to relieve family caregiver burden include care capacity building, psychological support, respite care service, financial support, and other health promotion activities. Full article
6 pages, 169 KiB  
Opinion
Clinical Outcomes of Tube Feeding vs. Hand Feeding in Advanced Dementia
by Wei Yu Chua and Eng-King Tan
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(21), 6535; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13216535 - 30 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1849
Abstract
Dementia is a growing public health issue, with the number of cases projected to triple by 2050 as society ages. Although the American Geriatrics Society recommends careful hand feeding over tube feeding for patients with advanced dementia, an increasing proportion of patients are [...] Read more.
Dementia is a growing public health issue, with the number of cases projected to triple by 2050 as society ages. Although the American Geriatrics Society recommends careful hand feeding over tube feeding for patients with advanced dementia, an increasing proportion of patients are receiving tube feeding. Although decisions regarding tube feeding are often based on the physician, recent studies have shown that tube feeding has significant implications for clinical outcomes and quality of life. Tube feeding is associated with an increased risk of mortality, pneumonia and the use of restraints. Although tube feeding may reduce caregiver burden, it does not improve survival or nutritional status and incurs significant financial costs. Caregivers that hand feed patients often experience stress, particularly in regions where support services are limited. However, there are various strategies available to promote hand feeding which include environmental interventions, mealtime assistance and caregiver training. Although hand feeding is the most comfortable option for patients, the frequency of mealtimes and financial and mental health impact on caregivers requires the physician to conduct a holistic assessment of the patient when deciding on the mode of feeding for patients with advanced dementia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Neurology)
8 pages, 4866 KiB  
Article
Design and Development of Virtual Reality Application Implementing Age-Friendly Care and the 4Ms: A Quality Improvement Project
by Sweta Tewary, Oksana Shnayder, Marie Dezine and Naushira Pandya
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(10), 1279; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21101279 - 25 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1765
Abstract
Introduction: With an increase in the aging population, the application of evidence-based practice in geriatric education can strengthen knowledge, skills, and clinical experience for healthcare students caring for older adults. The Age-Friendly Health System (AFHS) is one of the frameworks founded on providing [...] Read more.
Introduction: With an increase in the aging population, the application of evidence-based practice in geriatric education can strengthen knowledge, skills, and clinical experience for healthcare students caring for older adults. The Age-Friendly Health System (AFHS) is one of the frameworks founded on providing evidence-based and low-risk care centered on what matters most to older adults, their families, and caregivers. Virtual reality (VR) platforms are gaining popularity due to their ability to provide an immersive, hands-on learning experience resembling an actual medical practice or care setting. Immersive learning enhances students’ sensory perceptions, promoting an innovative and engaging way of acquiring concepts that are difficult to teach in real life. This study aimed to design, develop, implement, and evaluate a case-based training module highlighting AFHS and educating medical students on the 4Ms approach in geriatric care (What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility). Methodology: The project was a feasibility study completed in two phases. Phase one included planning and developing a case-based scenario incorporating the 4Ms of AFHS. Phase two included implementing and evaluating the VR training module into the geriatric curriculum for medical students. Results: The final VR case displays a hospital and post-acute setting where an elderly patient is admitted for a hip fracture. Students learn how to triage and treat patients from admission to discharge while demonstrating their knowledge of AFHSs. Approximately 10% of students completed the evaluation survey, and preliminary results indicate significant knowledge change in pre-post scenario-based training on an AFHS. Conclusions: The VR education platform and embedded scenario promise an innovative adaptation of technology in learning the concepts of the 4Ms of AFHSs. However, future studies should explore VR education with clinical assessment evaluation to ensure competence in providing age-friendly care. Full article
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16 pages, 403 KiB  
Article
The Association of Cognitive Impairment and Depression with Malnutrition among Vulnerable, Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Large Cross-Sectional Study
by George Karam, Nada Abbas, Lea El Korh, Alexander Abi Saad, Lara Nasreddine and Krystel Ouaijan
Geriatrics 2024, 9(5), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics9050122 - 19 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2889
Abstract
(1) Background: Mental health issues in older adults, particularly cognitive impairment and depression, can affect nutritional status. This study investigates the prevalence of malnutrition among community-dwelling older adults at risk of social exclusion and dependency in Lebanon and its association with cognitive impairment [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Mental health issues in older adults, particularly cognitive impairment and depression, can affect nutritional status. This study investigates the prevalence of malnutrition among community-dwelling older adults at risk of social exclusion and dependency in Lebanon and its association with cognitive impairment and depression. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study used secondary data from the TEC-MED project, involving 1410 older adults aged 60 and above in Beirut. Nutritional status was assessed with the Mini Nutritional Assessment _Short Form (MNA_SF), cognitive impairment with the AD8 Dementia Screening Interview, and depression with the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). (3) Results: 87.2% of participants were at risk of malnutrition, and 2.5% were malnourished. Cognitive impairment was present in 82.2% of the sample and 45% experienced moderate to severe depression. Malnourished individuals had significantly higher rates of cognitive impairment (96.7% vs. 57.8%) and depression (85.7% vs. 23.2%). Significant associations were found between the risk of malnutrition, decreased food intake, cognitive impairment, and depression; however, no significant association was found with BMI. Logistic regression analysis indicated that older age, cognitive impairment, and depression were significant predictors of malnutrition, while having a caregiver was protective. (4) Conclusions: The high prevalence of risk of malnutrition among vulnerable older adults with cognitive impairment and depression underscores the need for policies integrating nutritional screening into routine health check-ups for older adults. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Care and Support in Geriatrics)
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24 pages, 1914 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Elderly Care through Low-Cost Wireless Sensor Networks and Artificial Intelligence: A Study on Vital Sign Monitoring and Sleep Improvement
by Carolina Del-Valle-Soto, Ramon A. Briseño, Ramiro Velázquez, Gabriel Guerra-Rosales, Santiago Perez-Ochoa, Isaac H. Preciado-Bazavilvazo, Paolo Visconti and José Varela-Aldás
Future Internet 2024, 16(9), 323; https://doi.org/10.3390/fi16090323 - 6 Sep 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2025
Abstract
This research explores the application of wireless sensor networks for the non-invasive monitoring of sleep quality and vital signs in elderly individuals, addressing significant challenges faced by the aging population. The study implemented and evaluated WSNs in home environments, focusing on variables such [...] Read more.
This research explores the application of wireless sensor networks for the non-invasive monitoring of sleep quality and vital signs in elderly individuals, addressing significant challenges faced by the aging population. The study implemented and evaluated WSNs in home environments, focusing on variables such as breathing frequency, deep sleep, snoring, heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), oxygen saturation, Rapid Eye Movement (REM sleep), and temperature. The results demonstrated substantial improvements in key metrics: 68% in breathing frequency, 68% in deep sleep, 70% in snoring reduction, 91% in HRV, and 85% in REM sleep. Additionally, temperature control was identified as a critical factor, with higher temperatures negatively impacting sleep quality. By integrating AI with WSN data, this study provided personalized health recommendations, enhancing sleep quality and overall health. This approach also offered significant support to caregivers, reducing their burden. This research highlights the cost-effectiveness and scalability of WSN technology, suggesting its feasibility for widespread adoption. The findings represent a significant advancement in geriatric health monitoring, paving the way for more comprehensive and integrated care solutions. Full article
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15 pages, 323 KiB  
Article
Determinants of Depression in Caregivers of Geriatric Patients in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Mohammed A. Aljunaid, Rayan Mesfer Alosaimi, Essa Ahmed Alazmi, Ahmad Abdulaziz Afandi, Mohammed Talal Musslem, Mohammed Mohsen Aljarameez and Hosam Husain Alzobaidi
Medicina 2024, 60(8), 1368; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60081368 - 22 Aug 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2123
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Caregiving for geriatric patients is essential for ensuring the well-being and quality of life of older adults. Family caregivers play a crucial role, but they often face a significant burden that can lead to adverse mental health outcomes, including [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Caregiving for geriatric patients is essential for ensuring the well-being and quality of life of older adults. Family caregivers play a crucial role, but they often face a significant burden that can lead to adverse mental health outcomes, including depression. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of depression among caregivers of geriatric patients in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and to analyze its association with caregiver burden and various socio-demographic and caregiving parameters. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between January and March 2024. Adult caregivers of geriatric patients were recruited through various social media platforms. Data were collected via an electronic questionnaire that included demographic information, caregiving parameters, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) for depression screening, and the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI-12) for caregiver burden assessment. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression. Results: Of the 269 participants, the average age was 32 years, and the gender distribution was nearly balanced. The prevalence of depression (PHQ-9 score ≥ 10) among caregivers was 45.4% (95% CI: 39.3, 51.5%). Significant factors associated with higher depression scores included younger age, female gender, single status, being a student, low income, and caregiving burden. In the multivariate analysis, female gender (OR 2.50, 95% CI 1.30–4.80) and caregiving burden (mild-to-moderate burden: OR 6.18, 95% CI 2.94–13.00; high burden: OR 22.75, 95% CI 8.75–59.13) were independent predictors of depression. Conclusions: The study highlights the high prevalence of depression among caregivers of geriatric patients in Jeddah and underscores the significant impact of caregiving burden on mental health. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions, such as mental health support, respite care programs, and culturally sensitive educational training, to mitigate caregiver burden and enhance the well-being of caregivers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Psychiatry)
10 pages, 627 KiB  
Article
The Role of Functional Deficits, Depression, and Cognitive Symptoms in the Perceived Loneliness of Older Adults in Mexico City
by Ana Belén Ramírez López, Yaneth Rodríguez-Agudelo, Francisco Paz-Rodríguez, Silvia Aracely Tafoya, Benjamín Guerrero López and Claudia Diaz Olavarrieta
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(8), 977; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21080977 - 26 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1556
Abstract
The world is aging and experiencing loneliness. Functional impairment in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) in older people (OP) with mild neurocognitive disorder (MNCD) predicts loneliness. After the pandemic, there was an increase in perceived loneliness. We explored the association between loneliness, [...] Read more.
The world is aging and experiencing loneliness. Functional impairment in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) in older people (OP) with mild neurocognitive disorder (MNCD) predicts loneliness. After the pandemic, there was an increase in perceived loneliness. We explored the association between loneliness, depression, deficits in IADL, and cognitive symptoms among OP. From February to December 2023, using a cross-sectional design, we interviewed probable cases with mild cognitive impairment and caregivers in two public facilities. We administered the UCLA Loneliness Scale v3, Lawton IADL Scale, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Yesavage’s Geriatric Depression Scale. Samples were matched: 85 per group, 82.4% were women, married (52.95%), and mean age of 69.17 (±6.93) years. In our study, 30% displayed moderate to high levels of perceived loneliness. Multivariate analysis showed loneliness was associated with depression, low levels of IADL, and older age, but not with cognitive symptoms, which explained 22% of the total variance (F 165) = 16.99, (p < 0.001). Targeting symptoms and behaviors that could be modified (i.e., depression and functionality) can improve feelings of perceived loneliness and have an impact on morbidity and mortality with which it is associated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health Consequences of Social Isolation and Loneliness)
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