Submit to IJERPH Review for IJERPH Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser

Lifestyle and Environmental Interventions to Promote a Healthy Ageing

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Published Papers

A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2020) | Viewed by 24243

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Telmo Pereira

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Coimbra, Portugal
Interests: ageing; arterial stiffness; cardiovascular physiology; neurosciences; public health

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Population aging is a major social and economic challenge in modern times. The increasing average life expectancy and declining birth rate are drivers of a demographic transformation process that creates a new set of challenges regarding the integration of the elderly in society, the quality and life expectancy of the elderly, the sustainability of health systems, health and social security, and the labour market. On the other hand, demographic pressure on specialized care institutions for these populations will also pose operational problems, which could compromise the quality of the provided services and the adequacy of supply to all those in need of such support. The challenges arising from this demographic trend, therefore, cut across various sectors of society. Recognizing these challenges is crucial to the development and implementation of policies and strategic actions which value the role of the elderly, promote their health and well-being, and contribute to their involvement and participation in the community.

In this Special Issue, papers on interventions towards a healthy and active ageing, as well as contributions to the understanding of the physiology of ageing, will be considered. Empirical papers are preferred, but reviews and theoretical papers are also welcomed.

Prof. Telmo Pereira
Guest Editor

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

ageing physiology
physical activity and ageing
nutrition and ageing
cognitive stimulation and ageing
environment and ageing
pharmacology and ageing
public health and ageing

Published Papers (7 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

14 pages, 320 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Do Communication Patterns Affect the Association between Cognitive Impairment and Hearing Loss among Older Adults in Vietnam?

by Tran Dai Tri Han, Keiko Nakamura, Kaoruko Seino, Vo Nu Hong Duc and Thang Van Vo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 1603; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041603 - 8 Feb 2021

Viewed by 2449

Abstract

This study examined the prevalence of cognitive impairment among older adults in central Vietnam and the roles of communication (with or without communication devices) in the association between cognitive impairment and hearing loss. This cross-sectional study was performed on 725 randomly selected community-dwelling older adults aged ≥60 years from Thua Thien Hue province, Vietnam. Participants attended a face-to-face survey. Sociodemographic characteristics, social interaction with or without communication devices, health status and cognitive function using the Mini-Mental State Examination were reported. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was performed to quantify the association between hearing loss and cognitive function by frequency of communication with and without devices. Mild and severe cognitive impairment had prevalence rates of 23.6% and 19.3%, respectively. Cognitive impairment was more prevalent among older adults with hearing-loss, vision loss and difficulties with instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). The association between hearing loss and cognitive impairment was not significant when older adults had frequent communication with others using devices. This study presented the relatively high prevalence of cognitive impairment in community-dwelling older adults in Vietnam. Frequent communication using devices attenuated the association between hearing loss and cognitive impairment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle and Environmental Interventions to Promote a Healthy Ageing)

11 pages, 832 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Binational Framework for Active and Healthy Ageing (AHA) Bridging Austria and Slovenia in a Thermal Spa Region

by Sonja Lindner, Kai Illing, Josef Sommer, Tatjana Krajnc-Nikolić, Johann Harer, Christoph Kurre, Karl Lautner, Mateja Hauser, Daniel Grabar, Robert Graf-Stelzl, Christian Korn, Klaus Pilz, Bernhard Ritter and Regina Roller-Wirnsberger

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(2), 639; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18020639 - 13 Jan 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2780

Abstract

In view of ongoing demographic developments resulting in a longer life expectancy of the European population, the creation of “age-friendly” environments represents an initiative picked up by the European Union and its Member States to enable active and healthy ageing. The present study aims at the co-creation of a cross-border framework model to deploy a healthy ageing region linking Austria and Slovenia, building on previous work dealing with the development of an integrated regional ecosystem for active and healthy ageing. A qualitative, community-based action research method based on focus group discussions allowed the development of an exemplary framework model for active and healthy ageing building on cross-border collaboration in the region of Promura. Within the project group, twelve cross-border regional key assets were identified. In the course of further open discussions, an exemplary model for the deployment of a cross-border healthy ageing region was developed, comprising underlying fundamental environmental aspects, regional structures in the field of health and care as well as crosscutting features spreading across all levels. This article presents a promising, strategic co-creation approach on how to span a model on active and healthy ageing across two cross-border regions with similar characteristics and assets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle and Environmental Interventions to Promote a Healthy Ageing)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1242 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study of Acute and Sub-Acute Effects of Auditory Training on the Central Auditory Processing in Older Adults with Hearing Loss—A Pilot Study

by Carla Matos Silva, Carolina Fernandes, Clara Rocha and Telmo Pereira

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(14), 4944; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17144944 - 9 Jul 2020

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2519

Abstract

Background: Impairment in speech perception is a common feature of older adults. This study aimed at evaluating the acute and sub-acute (after three months) effects of auditory training on central auditory processing in older people with hearing loss. Methods: A nonrandomized study was conducted enrolling 15 older adults with hearing loss and an average age of 78.6 ± 10.9 years. All participants underwent a baseline otoscopy, tympanogram, audiogram and speech-in-noise test with a signal-noise ratio (SNR) of 10 and 15 dB. Afterwards, auditory training intervention was implemented consisting of 10 training sessions over 5 weeks. Participants were divided into two groups: group 1 (G1) underwent auditory training based on a speech-in-noise test; group 2 (G2) underwent a filtered-speech test. Auditory processing was evaluated at baseline (T0) immediately after the intervention (T1) and 3 months after the intervention (T2). Results: Group 1 were quite efficient regardless of the SNR in the right ear with statistically significant differences from T0 to T1 (p = 0.003 and p = 0.006 for 10 dB and 15 dB, respectively) and T0 to T2 (p = 0.011 and 0.015 for 10 dB and 15 dB, respectively). As for the left ear, the increase of success was statistically significant for the SNR of 10 dB and 15 dB from T0 to T1 (p = 0.001 and p = 0.014, respectively) and from T0 to T2 (p = 0.016 and p = 0.003). In G2, there was a significant variation only from T0 for T1 in the left ear for an SNR of 10 dB (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Speech perception in noise significantly improved after auditory training in old adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle and Environmental Interventions to Promote a Healthy Ageing)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 307 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Individual and Environmental Factors Associated with Recurrent Falls in Elderly Patients Hospitalized after Falls

by Hai Minh Vu, Long Hoang Nguyen, Huong Lan Thi Nguyen, Giang Thu Vu, Cuong Tat Nguyen, Trong Nang Hoang, Tung Hoang Tran, Kiet Tuan Huy Pham, Carl A. Latkin, Bach Xuan Tran, Cyrus S.H. Ho and Roger C.M. Ho

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(7), 2441; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17072441 - 3 Apr 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4559

Abstract

Falls and recurrent falls cause great health and social consequences in older people. However, these problems are poorly understood in Vietnam. A cross-sectional study was performed at seven hospitals in Thai Binh province, Vietnam, to investigate the individual and environmental factors associated with recurrent falls among elderly patients hospitalized due to fall injuries in Vietnam. A history of recurrent falls within the last 12 months, sociodemographic, health, and clinical characteristics, as well as environmental conditions, were obtained via self-reported interviews. Multivariate logistic and Poisson regression models were used to identify associated factors. Overall, the mean fall episodes in the last 12 months were 1.8 (Standard deviation—SD = 1.2) episodes, and the 12-month prevalence of recurrent falls was 40.5%. The individual risk factors included not receiving fall prevention guidelines, walking with devices, loss of sensation in hand or foot, and using pain relief medications. The environmental risk factors comprised having too-high stairs and not having dry, clean, and nonslippery bathrooms. This study highlights a significantly high 12-month prevalence of recurrent falls in older patients hospitalized after falls in Vietnam. Moreover, regular assessments of functional disabilities and hazardous environmental conditions, as well as the provision of prevention programs, have potential to prevent falls and recurrent falls. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle and Environmental Interventions to Promote a Healthy Ageing)

12 pages, 1796 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of A “Modified” Otago Exercise Program on the Functional Abilities and Social Participation of Older Adults Living in the Community—The AGA@4life Model

by Anabela Correia Martins, Daniela Guia, Marina Saraiva and Telmo Pereira

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(4), 1258; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17041258 - 15 Feb 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4833

Abstract

Strength and balance exercises form part of multifactorial programs to reduce the risk of falling and promote active ageing. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a strength and balance exercise program, adapted from the traditional Otago Exercise Program (OTAGO) into a technological system. A non-randomized experimental study enrolled 34 participants (83.24 ± 6.89 years) from a daycare center in Portugal, who were distributed into an intervention group (IG; 18 participants) and a control group (CG; 16 participants). The IG underwent a “modified” OTAGO incorporated in a technological system using pressure and inertial sensors, feedback, and Exergames for 8 weeks, 3 times a week. The CG continued their regular activities. Outcome measures were evaluated at baseline and after 8 weeks of intervention. After the program, differences were observed between the groups in handgrip strength (p = 0.03), step test (p = 0.03), 4stage balance test “modified” (p < 0.001) and activities and participation profile related to mobility (PAPM) (p < 0.001). The IG showed positive results in the self-efficacy for exercise (p = 0.03), PAPM (p = 0.00) and all functional tests, except for timed up and go (p = 0.35). No significant changes were observed in the CG. The results support this intervention program as a good exercise solution to improve functional abilities, social participation, and self-efficacy, reducing the risk of falling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle and Environmental Interventions to Promote a Healthy Ageing)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 924 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of A Personalized Intervention Program on the Biochemical and Hematological Profile in Community Dwelling Old Adults—The AGA@4life Intervention Model

by Armando Caseiro, Clara Rocha, Ana Margarida Silva, Carla Ferreira, Isabel Silva, Mariana Clemente, Inês Cipriano, Marina Saraiva, Rogério Barreira, Joana Azenha, Maria Helena Loureiro, Anabela Martins and Telmo Pereira

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(3), 718; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17030718 - 22 Jan 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2595

Abstract

Aging is a social and economic challenge of the highest importance and a multidisciplinary intervention seems to be a promising approach for improving the quality of life of elderly individuals. This project was designed aimed at promoting an active and healthy aging through the implementation of an intervention program based on the comprehensive geriatric assessment model (AGA@4life), focused on promoting health and wellbeing, independence and autonomy, mobility, and social inclusion. A non-randomized interventional study was designed to evaluate the effect of only a dietetic and nutritional approach (control group (CG)) and the combination of a tailored exercise program and a dietetic and nutritional approach (intervention group (IG)) in the biochemical and hematological profile of older adults in the framework of AGA@4life. The 34 participants enrolled, aged 65 years or over, were subject to a thorough baseline (T0) multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluation, including the gathering of clinical information and a battery of biochemical and hematological determinations, and reevaluated after eight weeks of intervention (T1). Between T0 and T1, an increase in albumin and total proteins serum levels were observed in both groups (p < 0.01); the hematological profile in CG and IG showed an increase in red cell count and hemoglobin (p < 0.05). In IG, an increase of HDL cholesterol (p < 0.001) and a decrease of triglycerides (p = 0.001) were still observed. The AGA@4life multidisciplinary intervention improved the hematological and biochemical profile of old adults, potentially contributing to delay the development of several aging comorbidities and increase the quality of life of participants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle and Environmental Interventions to Promote a Healthy Ageing)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

18 pages, 828 KiB

Open AccessReview

Considerations in Planning Physical Activity for Older Adults in Hot Climates: A Narrative Review

by Lydia See, Rohan L. Rasiah, Rachael Laing and Sandra C. Thompson

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(3), 1331; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18031331 - 2 Feb 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3805

Abstract

Regular physical activity has multiple health benefits for both the prevention and management of disease, including for older adults. However, additional precautions are needed with ageing given physiological changes and the increasing prevalence of comorbidities. Hot ambient temperatures increase the risks of exercise at any age, but are particularly important given thermoregulatory changes in older people. This narrative review informs planning of physical activity programs for older people living in rural areas with very hot climates for a period of the year. A multi-database search of peer-reviewed literature was undertaken with attention to its relevance to Australia, starting with definitions and standard advice in relation to physical activity programming and the incremental limitations imposed by age, rurality, and extreme heat. The enablers of and barriers to increasing physical activities in older adults and how they can be modified for those living in extreme hot climates is described. We describe multiple considerations in program design to improve safety, adherence and sustaining physical activity, including supervision, simple instructions, provision of reminders, social support, encouraging self-efficacy. Group-based activities may be preferred by some and can accommodate special populations, cultural considerations. Risk management is an important consideration and recommendations are provided to assist program planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle and Environmental Interventions to Promote a Healthy Ageing)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Lifestyle and Environmental Interventions to Promote a Healthy Ageing

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Published Papers (7 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI