Search Results (264)

Background: Dentinal hypersensitivity (DH) significantly impacts oral health-related quality of life. While global prevalence estimates range from 10–15%, region-specific data from Saudi Arabia remain limited. This study also aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s mental health initiatives, as DH-associated anxiety impacts overall well-being. This study assessed DH prevalence and quality of life impact among Saudi adults. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 748 Saudi adults aged ≥ 18 years between April and May. Data were collected using a validated Arabic Dentinal Hypersensitivity Experience Questionnaire (DHEQ) alongside socio-demographic variables. Participants reporting DH symptoms within 12 months were included in impact analyses. Descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA examined associations between DHEQ scores and participant characteristics. Results: Self-reported DH prevalence was 54.3% (n = 406), substantially exceeding global estimates. Among affected individuals, mean DHEQ score was 0.56 ± 0.19, indicating moderate-to-substantial quality-of-life impact. Functional limitations were most affected, particularly enjoyment of eating and drinking (0.72 ± 0.21). Significant associations were identified between higher DHEQ scores and age extremes (<18 and >35 years; p < 0.001), higher income levels (p = 0.032), fewer teeth (p = 0.040), and dental pain presence (p = 0.009). Sex, residence, education, and employment showed no significant associations. Conclusions: More than half of Saudi adults reported DH symptoms, representing a significant public health concern with substantial quality of life implications. Prevalence substantially exceeds global estimates, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Age, income, tooth count, and pain presence emerged as key factors. These findings support developing population-specific prevention strategies, particularly targeting younger and older adults with tooth loss. Full article

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between visual functions and road traffic accidents (RTAs) by meta-analysis of observational studies. The analysis included all drivers of motor vehicles, regardless of age, and those using private or public transport. Self-reported visual outcomes were excluded. The risk of RTA in patients with reduced visual acuity was observed in commercial drivers in cross-sectional studies (PR 1.54, 95% CI 1.26–1.88), but not in private drivers in cohort (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.74–1.46) or case–control studies (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.78–1.40). A non-statistically significant association between colour vision defects and RTA was observed in cross-sectional studies (PR 1.50, 95% CI 0.91–2.45). No evidence was found for an increased risk of accidents in people with reduced stereopsis. In older adults with abnormal contrast sensitivity, a weak risk of RTA was observed in cohort studies. Evidence from low-quality cross-sectional studies suggests an increased risk of RTAs among commercial drivers with reduced visual acuity. The few case–control and cohort studies identified did not show an association between accident occurrence and visual function. Attention needs to be paid to this issue to facilitate the conduct of high-quality research that can support the development of road safety policies. Full article

(1) Background: This study investigates whether older adult individuals support childcare policies not only out of altruism, but also due to extended self-interest arising from intergenerational co-residence. It challenges the conventional view that welfare attitudes are shaped solely by one’s own life-cycle needs. (2) Methods: Using the 2013 and 2016 waves of the Korean Welfare Panel Study waves of the Korean Welfare Panel Study, a difference-in-differences (DiD) approach compares attitudes toward government childcare spending between older adults living with children (Co-residing Older Adults) and those who do not (Non-co-residing Older Adults), before and after universal childcare policies were introduced in 2013. (3) Results: The Co-residing Older Adults consistently expressed stronger support for family policies than their counterparts. However, this support did not significantly increase after the 2013 reform, indicating that extended self-interest may not be sensitive to short-term policy changes. (4) Conclusions: Extended self-interest appears to be a stable orientation shaped by family context rather than a flexible, policy-reactive stance. These findings highlight the role of intergenerational household ties in shaping welfare attitudes and offer implications for fostering generational solidarity in aging societies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Aging is often accompanied by physical and cognitive decline, affecting older adults’ mobility. Virtual reality (VR) offers innovative opportunities to safely practice everyday tasks, such as street crossing. This study was designed as a feasibility and pilot study to explore acceptance, usability, and preliminary effects of a VR-based road-crossing intervention for older adults. It investigates the use of virtual reality (VR) as an innovative training tool to support senior citizens in safely navigating everyday challenges such as crossing roads. By providing an immersive environment with realistic traffic scenarios, VR enables participants to practice in a safe and controlled setting, minimizing the risks associated with real-world road traffic. Methods: A VR training application called “Wegfest” was developed to facilitate targeted road-crossing practice. The application simulates various scenarios commonly encountered by older adults, such as crossing busy streets or waiting at traffic lights. The study applied a single-group pre-post design. Outcomes included the Timed Up and Go test (TUG), Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I), and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Results: The development process of “Wegfest” demonstrates how a highly realistic street environment can be created for VR-based road-crossing training. Significant improvements were found in the Timed Up and Go test (p = 0.002, d = 0.784) and fall-related self-efficacy (FES-I, p = 0.005). No change was observed in cognitive function (MoCA, p = 0.56). Participants reported increased subjective safety (p < 0.001). Discussion: The development of the VR training application “Wegfest” highlights the feasibility of creating realistic virtual environments for skill development. By leveraging immersive technology, both physical and cognitive skills required for road-crossing can be effectively trained. The findings suggest that “Wegfest” has the potential to enhance the mobility and safety of older adults in road traffic through immersive experiences and targeted training interventions. Conclusions: As an innovative training tool, the VR application not only provides an engaging and enjoyable learning environment but also fosters self-confidence and independence among older adults in traffic settings. Regular training within the virtual world enables senior citizens to continuously refine their skills, ultimately improving their quality of life. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cochlear implants (CIs) and hearing aids (HAs) have enhanced auditory rehabilitation in elderly individuals, yet limitations in musical perception and psychosocial integration persist. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effects of music therapy (MT) on the quality of life (QoL), self-esteem, auditory perception, and cognition in older CI and HA users. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed was conducted up to March 2022 following PRISMA guidelines. Studies involving participants aged ≥ 60 years with CIs and/or HAs were included. Ten studies (n = 21,632) met eligibility criteria. Data were extracted and assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Results: MT led to improved sound quality, with HISQUI19 scores rising from 60.0 ± 21.8 to 74.2 ± 27.5. Early MT exposure was associated with significantly better MUMU outcomes (p = 0.02). Bilateral CI users showed enhanced stereo detection (52% to 86%), and CI + HA users achieved CNC scores exceeding 95%. Postlingual CI users outperformed prelingual peers in musical discrimination (9.81 vs. 3.48; p < 0.001). Long-term HA use was linked to better a QoL and reduced loneliness. Conclusions: While music therapy appears to support auditory and psychosocial functioning in hearing-impaired older adults, the absence of randomized controlled trials limits causal inference regarding its effects. These results support its integration into hearing rehabilitation strategies for older adults. Full article

Background: This article introduces the development and application of a life review program designed to support the psychological well-being of middle-aged and older adults living with HIV. Grounded in Swanson’s Theory of Caring, the program emphasizes culturally sensitive, narrative-based reflection and group sharing. Methods: This study employed a qualitative exploratory design, implementing an eight-week life review program based on Swanson’s Theory of Caring. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and participant observations and then analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results: Thematic analysis revealed that participants experienced emotional engagement, renewed self-understanding, and a sense of connection fostered by the caring-based narrative process. Participants also expressed positive attitudes toward reinterpreting their past and envisioning the future. Conclusions: Rather than evaluating intervention outcomes, this study focuses on the development and implementation of a caring-based life review tool. Findings illustrate its feasibility and cultural acceptability, offering a foundation for future adaptation across diverse supportive care settings. This culturally sensitive intervention represents one of the first applications of a caring-based life review program tailored to aging PLWHIV in Taiwan. Full article

Background: Antibiotic resistance (AMR) is a critical global and national health challenge, largely driven by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. Understanding the public′s knowledge and practices regarding antibiotic use is essential for informing effective interventions. This study aimed to assess the levels of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) related to antibiotic use among adults in Saudi Arabia’s Western Region and to identify the demographic and behavioral determinants of these outcomes. Methods: A regional cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to June 2025 using a 40-item self-administered online questionnaire. Adults aged ≥ 18 years residing in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia were recruited via social media using snowball sampling. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used to examine associations, while multivariate logistic regression was employed to identify determinants of high knowledge and good practices, presented as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: A total of 891 participants were included; most were female (63.6%) and aged 18–30 years (56.2%). Moderate knowledge of antibiotic use was observed in 54.0% of participants, while 30.8% had high knowledge. In terms of attitude and practice, 55.6% demonstrated good performance and 42.8% average performance. High knowledge was significantly associated with the female gender (aOR = 1.90; 95% CI: 1.34–2.70), age of 41–50 years (aOR = 2.22; 95% CI: 1.42–3.48), and a postgraduate education (aOR = 15.37; 95% CI: 1.84–128.13). Good practices were associated with the female gender (aOR = 2.32; 95% CI: 1.66–3.24) and being married (aOR = 1.99; 95% CI: 1.43–2.77). A moderate positive correlation was found between knowledge and practice scores (r = 0.406, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Significant variability in public KAP regarding antibiotic use was identified. Female gender, older age, and higher education were key determinants of better KAP. These findings emphasize the need for targeted educational strategies focusing on high-risk groups to support rational antibiotic use and mitigate antimicrobial resistance. Full article

Background: Falls are a major public health concern among older adults, often resulting in injury, functional decline, and reduced quality of life. While handgrip strength (HGS), fall efficacy, and balance confidence have individually been associated with fall risk, their combined predictive value is still underexplored, particularly in physically active older adults. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between HGS, fall efficacy, and balance confidence and their association with fall risk in community-dwelling older adults engaged in regular exercise programs; A cross-sectional study was conducted with 280 participants aged 55 and over from community exercise programs near Lisbon, Portugal. Fall risk was assessed through self-reported falls in the past 12 months. HGS was measured with a dynamometer, fall efficacy using the Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I), and balance confidence using the Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale. Statistical analyses included Spearman correlations and binary logistic regression. Results: Falls were reported by 26.4% of participants. Fall efficacy and balance confidence were significantly associated with fall history, while HGS was not. Fall efficacy was significantly associated with increased fall risk, as indicated by the odds ratio (OR = 3.37, p < 0.001), while balance confidence was negatively associated (OR = 0.95, p < 0.001). HGS was positively correlated with balance and confidence but not with fall incidence. Conclusions: Psychological factors, particularly fall efficacy and balance confidence, play a critical role in fall risk among physically active older adults. However, this study included physically active middle-aged and older adults living in the community, which should be considered when interpreting the generalizability of the results. These findings support the integration of simple, validated psychological assessments into fall prevention strategies in community settings. Full article

Background: The mechanisms through which information and communication technology (ICT) use influences chronic disease self-management remain unclear. Method: This cross-sectional investigation examined the mediating effects of health literacy, social support, and self-efficacy on the association between ICT use and self-management behaviors among older adults (≥60 years) with comorbidities in China (n = 520). The participants were recruited from a tertiary hospital in Shanghai (July 2023–June 2024), and data on sociodemographics, self-management, health literacy, social support, self-efficacy, and ICT use were collected via structured questionnaires. Results: Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed a significant association between ICT use, health literacy, social support, self-efficacy, and chronic disease self-management (p < 0.001). Multiple mediation modeling revealed a direct positive effect of ICT use on self-management (b = 1.3314, 95% CI = 0.6629, 2.0002). Furthermore, significant indirect effects were observed, mediated independently by both health literacy and social support. Additional serial mediation pathways included health literacy → social support, health literacy → self-efficacy, social support → self-efficacy, and a comprehensive pathway from health literacy through social support to self-efficacy. Conclusions: These findings collectively indicate that ICT use directly enhances chronic disease self-management among older adults with comorbidities. Moreover, ICT use indirectly improves self-management by enhancing health literacy, augmenting social support, and bolstering self-efficacy. Full article

Background/Objectives: The aim of this secondary analysis is to determine the baseline characteristics that are associated with a higher likelihood of weight-loss success in a personalized nutrition intervention. Methods: Data were analyzed in adults with abnormal glucose metabolism and obesity from a 6-month behavioral counseling randomized clinical trial. Participants were randomized to two calorie-restricted diets: a low-fat diet (Standardized) or a personalized nutrition diet leveraging a machine learning algorithm (Personalized). The gradient boosting machine method was used to determine the baseline variables (i.e., age, weight-loss self-efficacy) that predicted successful weight loss (≥5%) at 6 months in each study arm separately, using repeated five-fold cross-validation with 100 repetitions. Results: A total of 155 participants (Personalized: n = 84 vs. Standardized: n = 71) contributed data (mean [standard deviation]: age, 59 [10] y; 66.5% female; 56.1% White; body mass index (BMI), 33.4 [4.6] kg/m²). In both arms, higher baseline self-efficacy for weight loss was a predictor of weight-loss success. Participants with a higher BMI (p < 0.0001) in the Standardized arm and those who were older (p < 0.0001) in the Personalized arm were more likely to achieve successful weight loss. Conclusions: Future weight-loss interventions may consider providing tailored behavioral support for individuals based on weight-loss self-efficacy, BMI, and age. Full article

Background: Population aging presents major public health challenges. Nutrition education has emerged as a key intervention to improve diet quality and reduce the risk of chronic diseases among older adults. Methods: This pilot cross-sectional study assessed the effects of a brief nutrition education session on dietary patterns, lifestyle behaviors, and health perceptions among 151 community-dwelling Polish seniors aged 60 and over. Data were collected using the KomPAN® questionnaire, the Pro-Healthy Diet Index (pHDI-10), the Non-Healthy Diet Index (nHDI-14), and self-reported health indicators. Results: The findings revealed suboptimal dietary patterns, including low consumption of whole grains, legumes, and fish. A high prevalence of chronic diseases was observed, particularly hypercholesterolemia (67.7%) and hypertension (53.1%). A weak but significant correlation was found between BMI and the number of diagnosed conditions (r = 0.3, p = 0.003). Despite limited prior nutritional knowledge, participants perceived the educational session as beneficial, and many expressed an intention to share the acquired information with peers, indicating a potential “domino effect”. Conclusions: Although the sample size limits generalizability, the results support the effectiveness of brief, tailored nutrition education as a scalable, cost-effective public health strategy. Such interventions may promote healthy aging, reduce diet-related disease burden, and enhance peer-driven knowledge dissemination among older adults. Full article

Background: Decision-making under risk is a crucial process for undertaking health behaviors. Although the influence of individual differences on decision-making under risk has been widely examined, there is no clear consensus yet as to how to explain this process considering both young and older adults. The main aim of this preliminary study was to examine age differences in decision-making under risk, risk propensity, sensation-seeking, and self-conscious emotions between younger and older adults. Methods: A total of 40 subjects (20 young adults and 20 older adults) participated in the present study. The young adults were aged 18–35 years (M = 23.25, SD = 2.59). The older adults were aged 65–70 years (M = 68.50, SD = 4.01). Participants completed the Risk Propensity Scale, the Sensation-Seeking Scale, the Test of Self-Conscious Affect, and the Prisoner’s Dilemma Game. Results: The results indicated that the groups showed different behaviors in sensation-seeking (p < 0.001, pη2 = 0.14). The older group showed a larger propensity to seek recreational activities and unconventional behaviors than the younger group (p < 0.0001, d = 0.78; p = 0.001, d = 0.75). Also, the older adults demonstrated a greater inclination toward pride (p < 0.01, d = 0.78), whereas younger adults exhibited a stronger tendency towards shame (p < 0.01, d = 0.76). Conclusions: These data suggest a shift in risk preferences as individuals age, potentially influenced by a variety of psychological, social, and experiential factors. The applications of this study can support psychological well-being, productivity, and quality of life in later adulthood. Full article

Background: The aging population is increasing, leading to a greater need for home care for older adults, often provided by informal caregivers (ICs). These caregivers face numerous challenges, requiring adequate training and support. Objectives: This study aimed to map the main interventions performed by the Rehabilitation Nursing Specialist in empowering ICs of older adults at home. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The search included seven articles published between 2019 and 2024, in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, available in the PubMed e CINHAL Ultimate databases. The descriptors used were (Rehabilitation Nursing) AND (Informal Caregivers OR Caregivers) AND (Elderly OR Aged) AND (mentoring OR Training. Results: The RNS interventions focused on training caregivers in technical skills (e.g., positioning, transfers, hygiene care, feeding, medication administration), preventing caregiver burden, managing behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, promoting self-care, and emotional support. Educational programs and the use of technologies (telehealth) were identified as effective strategies. Conclusions: RNS interventions are crucial for enhancing the skills and well-being of ICs, improving the quality of care provided to older adults at home, and reducing caregiver burden. Person-centered care, continuous support, and recognizing the caregiver’s role are fundamental aspects of these interventions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Dementia is one of the leading causes of disability and dependence among older adults. Early screening may support timely intervention and risk management, contributing to better outcomes at the public health level. However, evidence relating to the factors influencing dementia screening acceptance and knowledge among older adults remains limited. This study aimed to assess dementia knowledge and screening acceptance among older adults, identify their associated factors, and explore the relationship between the two. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 272 older adults in three Chinese communities. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, dementia knowledge, and screening acceptance. The Dementia Knowledge Questionnaire and the Chinese version of the PRISM-PC scale were applied. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were used. Results: The mean scores for dementia knowledge and screening acceptance were 18.86 ± 5.98 and 62.06 ± 22.18, respectively. Age and education level were negatively associated with screening acceptance. Women had higher knowledge scores than men. Income and social participation were positively associated with dementia knowledge. Knowledge level showed a weak positive correlation with screening acceptance. Conclusions: The study revealed that dementia knowledge and screening acceptance among older adults were moderate; nonetheless, both aspects warrant further improvement. Community-based efforts should prioritize health education, stigma reduction, and targeted interventions to enhance knowledge and promote proactive screening behavior. Full article

Background/Objectives: Unwanted loneliness is the gap between the social relations a person has and those they want. The main objective of this research is to assess the impact of a multidimensional community-based intervention on the feeling of unwanted loneliness in the population over the age of 65 years old who live alone, are under social risk, or are socially isolated living on La Palma island. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was designed with pre- and post-intervention (at three months) measurements, with no control group or randomization. A sample comprising 90 subjects was estimated for a small–moderate (0.3) or large (0.8) effect size, with a significance level (α) of 0.05 and a power (1 − β) of 0.8. Results: The intervention was initiated with 90 participants in 8 of the 9 Basic Health Districts from the La Palma Health Area. A moderate effect size (d = −0.77; 95%CI [−1.02, −0.52]) was evidenced in self-perceived loneliness. Three months after the proposed community-based intervention, significant differences were evidenced in adequate eating habits, physical activity, support network, anxiety, depression, and perceived social support. Conclusions: Compartiendo Salud (Sharing Health) presents promising results, as it exerts positive effects on health management among older adults that live alone. The results of this intervention could serve as a model to design replicable strategies in other communities, improving the quality of life and levels of perceived social support in older adults. Full article