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Healthy and Active Ageing

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A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Global Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2022) | Viewed by 25439

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Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Andrea Bosco

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Guest Editor

Department of Education, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
Interests: aging; dementia; cognition; spatial cognition; spatial memory; topographical disorientation; mild cognitive impairment; driving behavior; awareness; quantitative methods
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Alessandro Oronzo Caffò

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Guest Editor

Department of Education, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
Interests: aging; dementia; spatial cognition; spatial memory; topographical disorientation; mild cognitive impairment; driving behavior; driver distraction; quantitative methods
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Dr. Antonella Lopez

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1. Faculty of Law, "Giustino Fortunato" University of Benevento, 82100 Benevento, Italy
2. Department of Education Science, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Umberto I, 70120 Bari, BA, Italy
Interests: ageing; spatial cognition; spatial memory; topographical disorientation; familiarity; sketch maps; quantitative methods
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The global phenomenon of ageing implies personal, medical, social, cultural, and economic issues. While the increase in longevity is undoubtedly a success of the current welfare systems, it requires that we take care of the psychophysical and relational well-being of individuals, promoting an effective self-monitoring of both the progressive functional losses and the emergence of age-related diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines healthy ageing as “the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables wellbeing in older age”. An effective interaction between the intrinsic capacity of the individual and the relevant environmental characteristics (home, community and broader society, the built environment, people and their relationships, attitudes and values, health and social policies) is a requirement for healthy ageing. Moreover, in order to turn ageing into a positive experience, the WHO has adopted the term “active ageing” to define “the process of optimizing opportunities for health, participation and security in order to enhance quality of life as people age”. Thus, during the entire course of their life people should act in favor of their physical, social, and psychological wellbeing, according to their needs, drives, and skills.

This Special Issue in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is devoted to collecting theoretical and empirical contributions on the demographic, social, economic, cultural, environmental, and personal/behavioral determinants of healthy and active ageing.

Manuscripts on risk/protective factors associated with age-related diseases, quality of life, assessment and prevention, effective treatments and interventions, age-friendly and safe environments, and social support are particularly welcome.

Prof. Dr. Andrea Bosco
Dr. Alessandro Oronzo Caffò
Dr. Antonella Lopez
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2500 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

active ageing
healthy ageing
health policies
health promotion
human wellbeing–environment interaction
assessment and intervention
technology and virtual reality
individual differences
spatial cognition
cognitive reserve

Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

12 pages, 576 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nitric-Oxide-Inducing Factors on Vitamin D Changes in Older People Susceptible to Suffer from Sarcopenia

by Alfredo Córdova, Alberto Caballero-García, David Noriega-González, Hugo J. Bello, Antoni Pons and Enrique Roche

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(10), 5938; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19105938 - 13 May 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2249

Abstract

Calcium and magnesium, together with vitamin D and the hormones testosterone and cortisol, are key elements in muscle function, to maintain physical fitness. This study aims to analyze if supplementation with NO precursors (L-arginine, L-citrulline and beetroot extract) modulates the circulating levels of calcium, magnesium, vitamin D and steroid hormones in elders. Sixty-one volunteers (65.1 years old, 164.6 cm of height and 71.2 kg of weight) susceptible to develop sarcopenia participated in a physical activity program for 6 weeks. Participants were divided into four groups: one placebo and three taking one of the indicated supplements. Physical capacity was assessed through the following tests: (a) distance covered in 6 min by walking (endurance indicator); (b) hand grip (upper-body strength indicator); (c) time to cover 4 m by walking (speed indicator); and (d) time to perform five full squats (lower-body strength indicator). We concluded that there is a disparity in the association of steroid hormones, vitamin D levels and physical fitness. However, a significant inverse correlation between speed and endurance indicators was observed. Higher circulating vitamin D levels were observed in the L-arginine- and beetroot-supplemented groups. In conclusion, vasodilators increase vitamin D circulating levels that, in the long term, could maintain mineral homeostasis, improving muscular function. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Active Ageing)

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16 pages, 557 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Prevalence of Amnestic and Non-Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment and Its Association with Different Lifestyle Factors in a South Italian Elderly Population

by Alessandro Oronzo Caffò, Giuseppina Spano, Luigi Tinella, Antonella Lopez, Elisabetta Ricciardi, Fabrizio Stasolla and Andrea Bosco

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(5), 3097; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19053097 - 06 Mar 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2634

Abstract

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a transition stage between normal aging and dementia and can be useful to monitor the cognitive status of people at risk of dementias. Our aims were to investigate the prevalence of amnestic and non-amnestic MCI in a South Italian elderly population, and to identify socio-demographic, clinical and lifestyle factors associated with MCI. A cross-sectional retrospective population study on 839 community-dwelling participants over 60 years of age was carried out. Elderly people were administered a brief neuropsychological screening to identify their cognitive and functional status, and a questionnaire to investigate several socio-demographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors. Prevalence estimate for MCI was 12.0% (95% CI: 10.0–14.5%), for amnestic MCI was 7.4% (95% CI: 5.8–9.4%), and for non-amnestic MCI was 4.6% (95% CI: 3.4–6.4%), for people older than 60 years of age. Logistic regression models, corrected for age, sex, and education, revealed a significant association of MCI with the following factors: age, education, intellectual activities, and topographical disorientation. On the other hand, education, clinical factors (e.g., depression level and perceived physical pain), lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, alcohol, and leisure/productive activities), dietary habits, quality of life, and self-reported topographical disorientation were non-significantly associated with MCI. Prevalence estimates and the association of MCI and its subtypes with risk and protective factors were discussed in comparison with the most recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Active Ageing)

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15 pages, 407 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Orientation Experiences and Navigation Aid Use: A Self-Report Lifespan Study on the Role of Age and Visuospatial Factors

by Veronica Muffato, Erika Borella, Francesca Pazzaglia and Chiara Meneghetti

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(3), 1225; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19031225 - 22 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1608

Abstract

Spatial orientation is essential for daily life, but it deteriorates with aging. The present study was aimed at investigating age changes across the adult lifespan in the self-reported use of navigation aids and everyday orientation experiences, as well as investigating to what extent these are related to visuospatial working memory (VSWM) and self-reported wayfinding inclinations. A sample of 456 people aged 25–84 years rated how much they use navigation aids (maps, GPS, verbal directions), how much they went out, and how much they reached or lost their way to unfamiliar destinations (in 2016). Then, they performed the jigsaw puzzle test (VSWM) and questionnaires on sense of direction, pleasure in exploring, and spatial anxiety. The results showed that increasing age is related to a lower tendency to go out, fewer experiences of finding one’s way and getting lost, a lower level of GPS use, and increased verbal directions use. After age changes were accounted for, VSWM was related to aid use and orientation experiences (except for losing one’s way), wayfinding inclinations (especially spatial anxiety) to using a map, and orientation experiences. Overall, other than age, VSWM and one’s wayfinding attitudes can play a role–albeit it a modest one–in spatial behaviors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Active Ageing)

17 pages, 972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Moderation of Perceived Comfort and Relations with Patients in the Relationship between Secure Workplace Attachment and Organizational Citizenship Behaviors in Elderly Facilities Staff

by Marcello Nonnis, Alessandro Lorenzo Mura, Fabrizio Scrima, Stefania Cuccu and Ferdinando Fornara

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(2), 963; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19020963 - 15 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2076

Abstract

This study focuses on caregivers who work in residential facilities (RFs) for the elderly, and specifically on their organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs) in relation to their interaction respectively with the overall context (workplace attachment dimension), the spatial-physical environment (perceived environmental comfort), and the social environment (relationship with patients). A sample of health care workers (medical or health care specialists, nurses, and office employees, n = 129) compiled a self-report paper-pencil questionnaire, which included scales measuring the study variables. The research hypotheses included secure workplace attachment style as independent variable, OCBs as the dependent variable, and perceived comfort and relations with patients as moderators. Results showed that both secure workplace attachment and perceived comfort promote OCBs, but the latter counts especially as a compensation of an insecure workplace attachment. As expected, difficult relationships with patients hinder the relationship between secure workplace attachment style and OCBs. In sum, our study highlights the importance of the joint consideration of the psychological, social, and environmental dimensions for fostering positive behaviors in caregivers employed in elderly care settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Active Ageing)

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25 pages, 745 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Active Ageing in Italy: A Systematic Review of National and Regional Policies

by Francesco Barbabella, Eralba Cela, Marco Socci, Davide Lucantoni, Marina Zannella and Andrea Principi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(1), 600; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph19010600 - 05 Jan 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4427

Abstract

Active ageing is defined as the process of optimizing opportunities for health, participation and security in order to enhance quality of life as people age. The design of active ageing policies intersects with different overarching societal challenges, especially ageing populations, social rights and sustainability. However, there are no previous attempts to review active ageing policies in the light of these challenges and the international policy objectives and targets that are guiding the international community. The aim of this study is to systematically identify, review and analyse all national and regional policies on active ageing adopted in Italy, by applying a conceptual framework derived from main international policy initiatives in the three areas. The research was conducted in two stages. First, a case study analysis was carried out per each relevant national institution and regional government. Standardised interviews were combined with policy document search, selection and analysis. Second, we performed a policy analysis in the light of a conceptual framework adopted. This latter was composed by nine policy domains, selected and integrated from principles and objectives of three overarching international frameworks on ageing—i.e., the Regional Implementation Strategy (RIS) commitments of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA), social rights—i.e., the European Pillar of Social Rights and sustainability—i.e., the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development. Results pointed out that out of the identified nine policy fields, the major intervention areas by Italian policy makers concerned labour market participation, life-long learning, social and economic inequalities, health and well-being. Less attention had been given to issues such as gender and equal opportunities and sustainable cities. This systematic policy review is a milestone for understanding how active ageing policies contribute to address major societal challenges and what domains need further policy development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Active Ageing)

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16 pages, 965 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Internet-Based Medical Service Use and Eudaimonic Well-Being of Urban Older Adults: A Peer Support and Technology Acceptance Model

by Wenjia Li, Shengwei Shen, Jidong Yang and Qinghe Tang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(22), 12062; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph182212062 - 17 Nov 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2531

Abstract

Currently, internet services are developing rapidly, and the relationship between specific types of internet services and the well-being of older adults is still unclear. This study took a total of 353 urban older adults aged 60 years and above as research objects to explore the impact of the use behavior toward internet-based medical services (IBMS) on their well-being through an online questionnaire. This study integrated well-being theory and peer support theory, constructed an extended structural equation model of technology acceptance based on the technology acceptance model (TAM), and analyzed the variable path relationship. The results confirm the proposed model: older adults improved their eudaimonic well-being through using IBMS; perceived usefulness significantly affected the older adults’ attitudes towards IBMS; perceived ease of use significantly affected the use of IBMS through mediation; peer support significantly affected older adults’ attitudes, willingness, actual use, and well-being in the process. This study proposes that facilitating IBMS use for older adults in the development and design of internet technology programs should be considered in order to provide them with benefits. Moreover, paying attention to peer support among older adults plays an important role in the acceptance of new technologies and improving their well-being. The “peer support” of this study expanded and contributed to the research on the impact on older adults’ well-being and the construction of a technology acceptance model. The peer support in this study extended the influence factor of eudaimonic well-being and contributed to the further development of the TAM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Active Ageing)

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14 pages, 355 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Food Security, Dietary Intake, and Foodways of Urban Low-Income Older South African Women: An Exploratory Study

by Feyisayo A Odunitan-Wayas, Mieke Faber, Amy E Mendham, Julia H Goedecke, Lisa K Micklesfield, Naomi E Brooks, Dirk L Christensen, Iain J Gallagher, Kathryn H Myburgh, Angus M Hunter and Estelle V Lambert

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(8), 3973; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18083973 - 09 Apr 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2800

Abstract

This cross-sectional study explored the differences in sociodemographics, dietary intake, and household foodways (cultural, socioeconomic practices that affect food purchase, consumption, and preferences) of food secure and food insecure older women living in a low-income urban setting in South Africa. Women (n = 122) aged 60–85 years old were recruited, a sociodemographic questionnaire was completed, and food security categories were determined. The categories were dichotomised into food secure (food secure and mild food insecurity) and food insecure (moderate and severe). A one-week quantified food frequency questionnaire was administered. Height and weight were measured to calculate body mass index (BMI, kg/m²). Most participants (>90%) were overweight/obese, unmarried/widowed, and breadwinners with a low monthly household income. Food insecure participants (36.9%) more frequently borrowed money for food (57.8% vs. 39.0%, p = 0.04), ate less so that their children could have more to eat (64.4%. vs. 27.3%, p = 0.001), and had higher housing density (1.2 vs. 1.0, p = 0.03), compared to their food-secure counterparts. Overall, <30% of participants met the WHO (Geneva, Switzerland) recommended daily servings of healthy foods (fruits, vegetables, and dairy products), but >60% perceived that they consumed an adequate amount of healthy foods. The overall low-quality diet of our cohort was associated with poor nutritional perceptions and choices, coupled with financial constraints. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Active Ageing)

19 pages, 5600 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of the ASPIRE Spherical Parallel Rehabilitation Robot Based on Its Clinical Evaluation

by Paul Tucan, Calin Vaida, Ionut Ulinici, Alexandru Banica, Alin Burz, Nicoleta Pop, Iosif Birlescu, Bogdan Gherman, Nicolae Plitea, Tiberiu Antal, Giuseppe Carbone and Doina Pisla

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(6), 3281; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18063281 - 22 Mar 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3045

Abstract

The paper presents the design optimization of the ASPIRE spherical parallel robot for shoulder rehabilitation following clinical evaluation and clinicians’ feedback. After the development of the robotic structure and the implementation of the control system, ASPIRE was prepared for clinical evaluation. A set of clinical trials was performed on 24 patients with different neurological disorders to obtain the patient and clinician acceptance of the rehabilitation system. During the clinical trials, the behavior of the robotic system was closely monitored and analyzed in order to improve its reliability and overall efficiency. Along with its reliability and efficiency, special attention was given to the safety characteristics during the rehabilitation task. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Active Ageing)

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20 pages, 1317 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Road More Travelled: The Differential Effects of Spatial Experience in Young and Elderly Participants

by Antonella Lopez, Alessandro Germani, Luigi Tinella, Alessandro Oronzo Caffò, Albert Postma and Andrea Bosco

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(2), 709; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18020709 - 15 Jan 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2649

Abstract

Our spatial mental representations allow us to give refined descriptions of the environment in terms of the relative locations and distances between objects and landmarks. In this study, we investigated the effects of familiarity with the everyday environment, in terms of frequency of exploration and mode of transportation, on categorical and coordinate spatial relations, on young and elderly participants, controlling for socio-demographic factors. Participants were tested with a general anamnesis, a neuropsychological assessment, measures of explorations and the Landmark Positioning on a Map task. The results showed: (a) a modest difference in performance with categorical spatial relations; (b) a larger difference in coordinate spatial relations; (c) a significant moderating effect of age on the relationship between familiarity and spatial relations, with a stronger relation among the elderly than the young. Ceteris paribus, the role of direct experience with exploring their hometown on spatial mental representations appeared to be more important in the elderly than in the young. This advantage appears to make the elderly wiser and likely protects them from the detrimental effects of aging on spatial mental representations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Active Ageing)

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