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Research Topics
In Research Link Australia (RLA), "Research Topics" refer to ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes. These topics are either sourced from ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes listed in researchers' related grants or generated by a large language model (LLM) based on their publications.
Top 5 Research Topics
ANZSRC Field of Research (FoR)
Social Policy And Planning | Other Behavioural And Cognitive Sciences | Public Health and Health Services | Other Psychology and Cognitive Sciences | Library and Information Studies | Information Storage, Retrieval And Management | Policy and Administration | Applied Statistics | Applied Sociology, Program Evaluation And Social Impact Assessment | Population Trends And Policies | Social Change | Labour Economics | Health Information Systems (Incl. Surveillance) | Health and Community Services | Social And Community Psychology | Rehabilitation Engineering | Population Trends and Policies | Aged Care Nursing | Developmental Psychology and Ageing | Health Promotion | Applied Economics | Care For Disabled | Public Policy | Residential Client Care | Sociology | Insurance Studies | Urban And Regional Studies
ANZSRC Socio-Economic Objective (SEO)
Health related to ageing | The distribution of wealth | Library and related information services | The aged | Studies in human society | Political science and public policy | Social structure and health | Understanding other countries | Telecommunications | Changing work patterns | Workforce Transition and Employment | Micro Labour Market Issues | Nursing | Health and Support Services not elsewhere classified | Superannuation and Insurance Services | Health policy economic outcomes | Economic issues not elsewhere classified | Productivity | Evaluation of Health Outcomes | Health Related to Ageing | Preventive medicine |
Related Links
Publications
End of life hospitalisations differ for older Australian women according to death trajectory: a longitudinal data linkage study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-09-2016
Life course influences on later life health in China: Childhood health exposure and socioeconomic mediators during adulthood
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
Australian Baby Boomers Face Retirement During the Global Financial Crisis
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-2013
DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2013.795382
Abstract: This paper examines the impact in Australia of the global financial crisis on the baby boom cohort approaching later life. Data from national focus groups of people aged 50 to 64 years (N = 73), conducted in late 2008, found widespread but variable concern and uncertainty concerning work and retirement plans and experiences. A national survey (N = 1,009) of those aged 50 to 64 years in mid-2009 reported lower levels of financial satisfaction compared with other life domains many planned to postpone retirement. Findings are interpreted in the context of policies and markets that differed significantly from those in the United States, notwithstanding the global nature of the financial crisis.
Patterns of Hospitalization Risk for Women Surviving Into Very Old Age
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 04-2017
DOI: 10.1097/MLR.0000000000000636
Abstract: By 2050, adults aged 80 years and over will represent around 20% of the global population. Little is known about how adults surviving into very old age use hospital services over time. The objective of the study was to examine patterns of hospital usage over a 10-year period for women who were aged 84 to 89 in 2010 and examine factors associated with increased use. Survey data from 1936 women from the 1921 to 1926 cohort of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health were matched with the state-based Admitted Patients Data Collection. Hospital use profiles were determined using repeated measures latent class analysis. Four latent class trajectories were identified. One-quarter of the s le were at low risk of hospitalization, while 20.6% demonstrated increased risk of hospitalization and a further 38.1% had moderate hospitalization risk over time. Only 16.8% of the s le was classified as having high hospitalization risk. Correlates of hospital use for very old women differed according to hospital use class and were contingent on the timing of exposure (ie, short-term or long-term). Despite the perception that older adults place a significant burden on health care systems, the majority of women demonstrated relatively low hospital use over an extended period, even in the presence of chronic health conditions. High hospitalization risk was found to be concentrated among a small minority of these long-term survivors. The findings suggest the importance of service planning and treatment regimes that take account of the erse trajectories of hospital use into and through advanced old age.
The experience of ageing: Influences on mental health and well-being
Publisher: Routledge
Date: 10-09-2012
Social capital dynamics and health in mid to later life: findings from Australia
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 26-07-2018
Reorienting Health Services to People with Chronic Health Conditions: Diabetes and Stroke Services in Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Thailand
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-07-2017
DOI: 10.1080/23288604.2017.1356428
Abstract: This paper explores whether middle-income Asian countries are reorienting their health services in response to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand were selected as case studies of Asian societies experiencing rapid increases both in NCDs and an aging population. While NCD programs, especially those related to diabetes and stroke, are well-established in Thailand, health services struggle to respond to increasing numbers of people with chronic health problems. Health services at all levels must plan ahead for more patients with chronic and often multiple conditions who require better integrated health care.
Ageing in Australia
Publisher: Springer New York
Date: 2017
Productive engagement across the life course: paid work and beyond
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2013
Financial Planning for Retirement Village Living: A Qualitative Exploration
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 04-2011
Cardiovascular disease and death associated with depression and antidepressants in the Melbourne longitudinal studies on healthy ageing (MELSHA)
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-03-2011
DOI: 10.1002/GPS.2532
Abstract: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and death may be associated with depression and antidepressants, but published findings remain equivocal. The authors aimed to determine the risk of CVD incidence and death associated with several classifications of depression. A prospective cohort study was conducted (1994-2006) in a regionally representative s le of 1000 non-institutionalised older Australians age 65+ years (47% men). Endpoints were non-fatal CVD incidence and death over 10 and 12-years, respectively. Depression incidence was assessed at 2-years. Depression related predictors were defined by symptoms (Psychogeriatric Assessment Scales, depression scale) and/or antidepressants to determine independent and/or joint effects on endpoints. Cox regressions determined unadjusted and multiple-adjusted (for significant covariates) hazard ratios (HR). Baseline response rate was 70.3%. Aggregate dropout rate was approximately 24% for survivors at biennial follow-ups, but death status was ascertained for all participants. Several classifications of depression predicted death in unadjusted analyses (39-60% >1), but effects disappeared in multiple-adjusted analyses (in which all HRs became <1 and non-significant). Depression related predictors were thus not associated with CVD incidence or death after accounting for confounding mostly by CVD, diabetes and poor functional health covariates. Prevalent arthritis, respiratory disease and daily pain were predictors (P < 0.05) of depression incidence. Depression related predictors were not independently associated with CVD incidence or death in older people. Antidepressants were not associated with CVD or premature death, accounting for whether participants' remained symptomatic or not. Depression co-occurs with and might be partly caused by chronic disease and poor functional health.
Predictors of injurious falls and fear of falling differ: an 11-year longitudinal study of incident events in older people
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 12-08-2015
Abstract: Objective: The objective of the study is to identify the intrinsic, psychosocial and lifestyle factors, which, over time, predict the incidence of having a fall requiring medical attention (injurious fall) or of acquiring a fear of falling (FOF). Method: Data from 1,000 participants in the Melbourne Longitudinal Studies on Healthy Ageing (MELSHA, 1994-2005) were analyzed using cox regressions and hazard ratios. Results: The predictors of injurious falls ( n = 900, events = 200) were increasing age, slower gait speed, and being depressed. Main predictors of developing a FOF ( n = 855, events =117) were increasing age, cognitive impairment, reduced social activity, and gender. A history of falls at baseline did not predict acquiring a FOF nor did FOF predict a future fall. Discussion: The profile of the person who will have an injurious fall differs from the profile of the person who develops a FOF and should be considered when designing interventions.
Pharmaco‐epistemology for the prescribing geriatrician
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-02-2008
DOI: 10.1111/J.1741-6612.2007.00271.X
Abstract: Clinicians are becoming more reliant on their interpretation of clinical trial information to guide prescribing rather than their clinical skills. Thus to improve prescribing, it is increasingly important for clinicians to have an appreciation of epistemology (the science of knowledge and its interpretation) and the broader social context of knowledge. The insights of epistemologists can be useful in understanding the different ways in which clinical trials data are interpreted.
Pathways to Well-Being in Later Life: Socioeconomic and Health Determinants Across the Life Course of Australian Baby Boomers
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-08-2015
Does gradual retirement have better outcomes than abrupt retirement? Results from an Australian panel study
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 29-08-2007
DOI: 10.1017/S0144686X07006228
Abstract: Conventional wisdom promotes gradual retirement rather than an abrupt end to the working life. This paper compares the outcomes of abrupt and gradual retirement one and three years after the transition to retirement began using data from an Australian panel study. The outcomes included changes in health, positive and negative affect, wellbeing and marital cohesion. For many outcomes there was no difference between gradual and abrupt retirements, but those who retired abruptly were more likely to rate their health as having deteriorated and more likely to report better adjustment to retirement. Control over retirement decisions was also explored it emerged as a more important factor in retirement wellbeing than whether the transition was gradual or abrupt. The absence of interaction or additive effects between the retirement pathway and the level of control over the process confirmed this result. Thus there is no simple answer to the question in the title. Retiring gradually allows time for people to make changes to their lifestyle, but having control over the timing and manner of leaving work had a greater positive impact on psychological and social wellbeing, and this persisted three years after retirement. The findings suggest that policies and employment practices that promote employees' control of their retirement decisions will enhance wellbeing in later life and facilitate longer workforce participation.
Health, lifestyle, and gender influences on aging well: an Australian longitudinal analysis to guide health promotion
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 02-07-2014
Housing type, location of residence and health status in Australian baby boomers: results from the Australian Baby Boomer (ABBA) Study.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-12-2015
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12119
Abstract: Baby Boomers are working and living longer than their pre-war counterparts, and are more likely to live in high density urban housing. This paper examines the relationship between housing type, working status and location of residence on health status in Baby Boomers. We investigated location of residence and housing type in 1009 participants of the Ageing Baby Boomers in Australia (ABBA) Study to identify any predictors of, or correlations between, these variables and health status. Current workers were less likely to report depression than retirees. We found a significantly higher rate of diabetes, obesity and hypertension in retirees than in current workers however rates of obesity, diabetes and hypertension were higher than predicted in current workers. The rates of chronic disease are higher than previous estimates and provide evidence to inform health promotion programs designed to increase physical activity and improve eating habits in baby boomers.
Perceptions of health‐care professionals’ treatment of older people
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-2017
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12437
Older People’s Life Satisfaction, Health and Intergenerational Relationships in Vietnam
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-10-2022
Factors associated with self-reported use of oral health services among older Melbournians: Brief Report
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-2013
Health, social and lifestyle factors in entry to residential aged care: An Australian longitudinal analysis
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 15-03-2010
Abstract: strategies to enable older people to remain in their own homes require information on potential intervention areas and target groups for health promotion and healthcare services. this study aimed to identify socioeconomic, health and lifestyle factors in entry to residential aged care facilities. a prospective cohort study was conducted from 1994 to 2005. the information source was the Melbourne Longitudinal Studies on Healthy Ageing Program. one thousand Australians aged 65 years and over living in the community were used as baseline s le. socio-medical data were gathered in face-to-face baseline interviews, and outcomes were identified in biennial follow-ups with respondents, informants and death registries over 12 years. Cox regression models identified baseline predictors of subsequent entry to residential aged care for men and women from among socio-demographic, health status and lifestyle factors. the most significant factors were older age, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) dependence, cognitive impairment, underweight body mass index (BMI) and low social activity. For men only, the number of medical conditions and healthy nutrition score also emerged as significant. For women only, never having been married, IADL dependence and low BMI also were significant. For men, the risk of entry to residential aged care facilities was associated mainly with disease burden, whereas for women, social vulnerability and functional capacities were more important. Healthy lifestyles were important indirectly insofar as they influenced subjects' health status. to facilitate older people to stay in the community, it is important to treat or ameliorate medical conditions, promote healthy lifestyles and consider gender-specific risks.
Foot and leg problems are important determinants of functional status in community dwelling older people
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 08-2005
DOI: 10.1080/09638280500030506
Abstract: To determine whether foot and leg problems are independently associated with functional status in a community s le of older people after adjusting for the influence of socio-demographic, physical and medical factors. Data were analysed from the Health Status of Older People project, a population-based study involving a random s le of 1000 community-dwelling people aged 65 - 94 years (533 females, 467 males, mean age 73.4 years +/- 5.87). A structured interview and brief physical examination were used to investigate the associations between self-reported foot and leg problems and functional status. Functional status was assessed using: (i) timed 'Up & Go' test, (ii) self-reported difficulty climbing stairs, (iii) self-reported difficulty walking one kilometer, (iv) self-reported difficulty performing instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), and (v) self-reported history of one or more falls in the previous 12 months. These associations were then explored after adjusting for socio-demographic, physical and medical factors. Thirty-six percent of the s le reported having foot or leg problems. Univariate analyses revealed that people with foot and leg problems were significantly more likely to exhibit poorer functional status in all parameters measured. After adjusting for socio-demographic, physical and medical factors, foot and leg problems remained significantly associated with impaired timed 'Up & Go' performance (OR = 2.15, 95%CI 1.55 - 2.97), difficulty climbing stairs (OR = 3.33, 95%CI 1.98 - 5.61), difficulty walking one kilometer (OR = 3.13, 95%CI 2.09 - 4.69), and history of falling (OR = 1.73, 95%CI 1.26 - 2.37). Foot and leg problems are reported by one in three community-dwelling people aged 65 years and older. Independent of the influence of age, gender, common medical conditions and other socio-demographic factors, foot and leg problems have a significant impact on the ability to perform functional tasks integral to independent living.
A gendered approach to workforce participation patterns over the life course for an Australian baby boom cohort
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2015
Costs of Community Care Services for Individuals with Complex Needs
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-1999
Cohort profile: The dynamic analyses to optimize ageing (DYNOPTA) project
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 17-01-2010
DOI: 10.1093/IJE/DYN276
Attitudes towards intergenerational equity: Preliminary Australian evidence
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-2017
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12430
First incident hospitalisation for Australian women aged 70 and beyond: A 10 year examination using competing risks
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.ARCHGER.2015.12.006
Abstract: There are increasing concerns regarding high hospital use among older adults and the capacity to manage the economic impact of the ageing population trend on healthcare systems. First hospitalisation in old age may act as a catalyst for ongoing intensification of health problems and acute care use. This study examined factors associated with first incident hospitalisation in women aged over 70, accounting for the health inequalities associated with geographic location. Survey data from 3780 women from the 1921 to 1926 cohort of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health were matched with the Admitted Patients Data Collection and National Death Index. Days to first event (hospitalisation or death) were modelled using competing risks methods. A total of 3065 (80.3%) women had at least one hospital admission. More than half of the top 15 reasons for first hospitalisation were related to cardiovascular disease, with atrial fibrillation the most common. Proportional subdistribution hazards models showed that first hospital admission was driven by enabling and need factors including asthma/bronchitis diagnosis (HR=1.16 p=0.047), private health insurance (HR=1.16 p=0.004) more than two prescribed medications in previous month (HR=1.31 p=0.001), more than four general practitioner visits in previous year (HR=1.50 p=0.034), lower physical functioning (HR=0.99 p<0.001) and living in an inner regional area (HR=1.17 p=0.003). First overnight hospitalisation was primarily related with potentially preventable and treatable chronic diseases. Primary and secondary strategies aimed at chronic disease generally, and better chronic disease management particularly for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, may play a vital role in disease prevention or delay in readmissions among this population.
Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial of An Aged Care Specific Leadership and Management Program to Improve Work Environment, Staff Turnover, and Care Quality.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.JAMDA.2015.04.005
Abstract: To evaluate the effectiveness of a leadership and management program in aged care. Double-blind cluster randomized controlled trial. Twelve residential and community-aged care sites in Australia. All care staff employed for 6 months or longer at the aged care sites were invited to participate in the surveys at 3 time points: baseline (time 1), 9 months from baseline (time 2), and 9 months after completion of time 2 (time 3) from 2011 to 2013. At each time point, at least 500 care staff completed a survey. At baseline (N = 503) the largest age group was 45 to 54 years (37%), and the majority of care staff were born in Australia (70%), spoke English (94%), and had at least completed secondary education (57%). A 12-month Clinical Leadership in Aged Care (CLiAC) program for middle managers, which aimed to further develop their leadership and management skills in creating positive workplace relationships and in enabling person-centered, evidence-based care. The primary outcomes were care staff ratings of the work environment, care quality and safety, and staff turnover rates. Secondary outcomes were care staff's intention to leave their employer and profession, workplace stress, job satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness of implementing the program. Absenteeism was excluded due to difficulty in obtaining reliable data. Managers' self-rated knowledge and skills in leadership and management are not included in this article, which focuses on care staff perceptions only. At 6 months after its completion, the CLiAC program was effective in improving care staff's perception of management support [mean difference 0.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.04-1.18 P = .04]. Compared with the control sites, care staff at the intervention sites perceived their managers' leadership styles as more transformational (mean difference 0.30, 95% CI 0.09-0.51 P = .005), transactional (mean difference 0.22, 95% CI 0.05-0.39 P = .01), and less passive avoidant (mean difference 0.30, 95% CI 0.07-0.52 P = .01) and were rated higher on the overall leadership outcomes (mean difference 0.35, 95% CI 0.13-0.56 P = .001) as well as in idual manager outcomes: extra effort (P = .004), effectiveness (P = .001), and satisfaction (P = .01). There was no evidence that CLiAC was effective in reducing staff turnover, or improving patient care quality and safety. While the CLiAC leadership program had direct impact on the primary process outcomes (management support, leadership actions, behaviors, and effects), this was insufficient to change the systems required to support care service quality and client safety. Nevertheless, the findings send a strong message that leadership and management skills in aged care managers can be nurtured and used to change leadership behaviors at a reasonable cost.
Diabetes incidence associated with depression and antidepressants in the Melbourne Longitudinal Studies on Healthy Ageing (MELSHA)
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-10-2010
DOI: 10.1002/GPS.2409
Abstract: Diabetes may be associated with depression and antidepressant medication (ADM) use, but published findings remain equivocal. The authors' aimed to determine the risk of diabetes incidence associated with baseline depression exposures (symptoms and/or ADM use). A prospective cohort study was conducted in a regionally representative s le of non-institutionalised older Australian people (N = 1000, aged 65 + year), who were followed up biennially between 1994 and 2004 (attrition was approximately 24%). Analyses excluded participants for prevalent diabetes at baseline, determined by self-report or specific medications. Diabetes incidence was ascertained by first self-report at any follow-up wave. Depression exposures (baseline predictors) were defined by the Psychogeriatric Assessment Scales (PAS) depression scale and ADM use, and classified as: (1) 'symptomatic' (PAS score 5+) (2) 'ADM use' (3) 'symptomatic or ADM use' (4) 'symptomatic and no ADM use' (5) 'asymptomatic (PAS score <5) and ADM use' and (6) 'symptomatic and ADM use'. Covariates were demographic, lifestyle, functional health and chronic disease factors. Cox regressions were used to determined hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals (HR [95% CI]) for diabetes incidence according to depression exposures, adjusted for significant covariates. Baseline response rate was 70.3%. Depression predictors of diabetes incidence were 'symptomatic' (2.29 [1.28,4.10]), 'symptomatic or ADM use' (2.13 [1.32,3.44]) and 'symptomatic and no ADM use' (2.38 [1.28,4.45]), after adjustment for significant covariates. Being asymptomatic was not a protective factor among those prescribed antidepressants. Older people with depressive symptoms are at least twice more likely to develop diabetes than those without depressive symptoms, regardless of antidepressants.
Preferences and Predictors of Aging in Place: Longitudinal Evidence from Melbourne, Australia
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-03-2017
A social view on healthy ageing: Multi-disciplinary perspectives and Australian evidence
Publisher: SAGE Publications Ltd
Date: 2010
The effectiveness of an aged care specific leadership and management program on workforce, work environment, and care quality outcomes: design of a cluster randomised controlled trial.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-10-2013
Health and Wellbeing through Work and Retirement Transitions in Mature Age: Understanding Pre—Post and Retrospective Measures of Change
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 12-2009
DOI: 10.2190/AG.69.4.C
Abstract: The capacity to measure change is essential in examining successful adaptation to ageing. Few studies measuring change have compared findings using pre—post approaches (employing difference scores) with those from retrospective approaches (employing self-ratings). Where this has occurred, differences have been attributed either to ceiling and floor effects or to the operation of social comparison (Choi, 2002, 2003). Our study compared pre—post and retrospective measures of change in health, health behaviors, and wellbeing over periods of 1 and 3 years among retirees. Retrospective measures were found to be more positive than pre—post measures. This discrepancy was associated with floor and ceiling effects and with a robust self-image, but not with recency, social comparison, or social desirability response sets. Pre—post difference scores have limitations as indicators of change, particularly where ceiling effects operate. A retrospective perception of improvement, combined with deterioration in scores, may result from successful psychological adaptation as people grow older.
Caregiving and mental health among workers: Longitudinal evidence from a large cohort of adults in Thailand
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2016
Urinary incontinence in a community sample of older adults: Prevalence and impact on quality of life
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2010.532284
Abstract: To measure the prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) in a community-dwelling s le and the impact of self-reported UI on well-being and activity in older men and women. Participants were older adults aged ≥65 years. Measures included the frequency of urgency incontinence, depression, positive and negative affect and social activity, independence in activities of daily living (IADL) and self-rated health. The data were collected by face to face interview (1994) and computer assisted telephone interviews (1996). Of the 796 participants, 28% experienced urgency incontinence and 21% reported stress incontinence occasionally or often, with higher rates among women. The threshold for the impact on depression, negative affect and IADL was with occasional occurrence of urinary urgency incontinence. For positive affect and self-rated health, the threshold was experiencing urinary urgency incontinence often. The presence of urinary stress incontinence was associated with depression, IADL dependence, self-rated health and positive affect. Overall, women with incontinence had higher negative affect scores, but men with stress incontinence had higher scores than those without. The impact of incontinence highlights the need for more effective management of the condition. The threshold for the effects of urinary urgency incontinence on mental health and functionality is lower than for the effects on general health. There is a need to consider how older people judge the impact of UI in the design of targeted health promotion programmes.
The health of Australian baby boomers
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1741-6612.2010.00412.X
Abstract: The large baby boomer cohort is beginning to reach retirement age. This paper reviews recent Australian literature on baby boomers' health and health behaviours. Databases were searched for peer-reviewed literature and the Internet for online studies and reports. The boomers can expect an increased life span compared to those in later life now. Boomers' health behavioural risks include physical inactivity, low vegetable consumption, obesity and rising medical risk due to increasing prevalence of diabetes. Their health will impact on workforce participation and retirement timing. There is substantial scope for health improvement and consequent quality of life as boomers age. However, little is known about health decision-making, inequalities between social groups and health information sources. Future research can yield a better understanding of the health trajectories of baby boomers in order to plan for health and service needs for an ageing Australia.
Development of a community care research agenda for Australia
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2011
DOI: 10.1111/J.1741-6612.2010.00471.X
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to develop a Community Care Research Agenda to give direction to research across community-based services for older people, for the next 3-5 years. This study used a four-round Delphi method to verify, rate and rank research questions and issues identified by sector stakeholders. Thirty panellists were selected to represent all key stakeholder groups within community care. The research agenda comprises the 30 questions/topics, in ranked order, considered by the panellists to be of the highest priority. The largest subgroups of issues pertain to approaches to care (30%), program outcomes and effectiveness (13%), funding (10%), and workforce (10%). Having a National Community Care Research Agenda will provide focus and direction for researchers, service providers and funders in developing and conducting high priority, high value research that can inform improvements in policy and practice in community care for older people.
The value of comparing health outcomes in cohort studies: An example of self-rated health in seven studies including 79 653 participants
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-11-2007
Developing Spatial Microsimulation Estimates of Small Area Advantage and Disadvantage among Older Australians
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-09-2011
DOI: 10.1002/PSP.692
Perceptions and consequences of ageism: views of older people
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 05-2000
DOI: 10.1017/S0144686X99007710
Abstract: This qualitative study examines meanings and experiences of ageism for older Australians. While the concept is widely applied in academic social analysis, the term is not understood or used by many of the informants. They talk freely, however, about negative experiences in ‘being seen as old’ and ‘being treated as old’. Active ageing is viewed as a positive way of presenting and interpreting oneself as separate from the ‘old’ group. Informants recognise that older people as a group experience negative treatment in terms of poor access to transport and housing, low incomes, forced retirement and inadequate nursing home care. While few have experienced overt or brutal ageism, interaction in everyday life involves some negative treatment, occasional positive ‘sageism’, and others ‘keeping watch’ for one's vulnerabilities. Health professionals are a major source of ageist treatment. Some older people limit their lives by accommodating ageism, while others actively negotiate new images of ageing for themselves and those who will be old in the future.
Older adults' spirituality and life satisfaction: a longitudinal test of social support and sense of coherence as mediating mechanisms
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 24-07-2013
DOI: 10.1017/S0144686X12000633
Abstract: Spirituality is proposed to be a component of successful ageing and has been shown to predict wellbeing in old age. There has been conceptual discussion of possible mechanisms that link spirituality with positive psychological functioning in older adults, but few empirical examinations of these linking mechanisms over time. The current study examined the role of Antonovsky's Sense of Coherence (SOC) and social support in mediating the effects of spirituality on life satisfaction in older participants over a four-year period. The study used a cross-lagged panel analysis to evaluate longitudinal mediation within a path analysis framework. Results showed that the meaningfulness dimension of SOC mediated the influence of spirituality on life satisfaction over time, suggesting that spirituality may influence older adults' experience and perception of life events, leading to a more positive appraisal of these events as meaningful. Social support was not found to mediate the pathway between spirituality and life satisfaction. This study may be the first to examine the link between spirituality, sense of coherence, social support and wellbeing, as measured by life satisfaction, using longitudinal data from a community s le of older adults. The study provides evidence for the positive role of spirituality in the lives of older people. This is an area that requires further examination in models of successful ageing.
Carer Characteristics and Health, Wellbeing and Employment Outcomes of Older Australian Baby Boomers
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-06-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S10823-017-9321-9
Abstract: Supporting caregivers and enabling continued workforce participation are central strategies in Australia's response to an ageing population, however these strategies have potential disadvantages for carers, particularly women, including reduced workforce participation and retirement income, and poorer health status. This paper explores the nexus between paid work and caregiving for Australia's baby boomer cohort as this group faces unprecedented pressures to manage paid work alongside caring longer and more intensively for family members, including grandchildren. A s le of 1261 men and women aged 60 to 64 completed the 2011-12 Life Histories and Health survey, a sub-study of the New South Wales 45 and Up Study. The survey collected data on sociodemographic, psychosocial, life history and health-related variables including caregiving and employment status. Around a third (32.5%) of the s le (52.2% female) were involved in some type of caregiving at the time. Compared to non-carers, carers reported lower workforce participation (45.8% versus 54.7% for non-carers) as well as poorer health, more mobility difficulties, lower quality of life and lower self-rated SES. Carers who also cared for grandchildren were more likely to be in part-time or no paid work compared to other carers. Working carers tended to be more highly educated, have fewer mobility difficulties, better self-rated health and higher SES than non-working carers. Male carers were more likely than female carers to be in full-time or no paid work. Results indicate that reduced workforce participation and health status of caregivers varies by gender and type of caregiving. Policy reforms are recommended to mitigate these adverse consequences on those providing care, their families, employers and the community.
Age discrimination in the workplace: The more things change …
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-2017
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12429
Accommodation options in later life: Retirement village or community living?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2005
Cohort profile: The Melbourne longitudinal studies on healthy ageing program
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 05-09-2010
DOI: 10.1093/IJE/DYQ137
Selection, adaptation and advantage. Later-life health and wellbeing of English migrants to Australia
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 29-03-2018
Impacts of voluntary and involuntary workforce transitions at mature ages: Longitudinal evidence from HILDA
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-10-2017
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12468
Abstract: To assess the changes in health, well-being and welfare dependency associated with yearly workforce transitions from working to not working among people aged 45-64 years. Transition analysis of the nationally representative longitudinal data from the Household Incomes and Labour Dynamics in Australia survey 2002-2011. People who voluntarily left paid work had reasonable control over their situations, and their satisfaction remained relatively stable even with deteriorating health and increasing welfare dependency. Those who involuntarily left paid work had less control and preparedness, and they experienced significant decreases in their satisfaction with life overall, finances and health they were also more likely to be psychologically distressed, welfare dependent and had a higher probability to return to paid work. Voluntary and involuntary workforce transitions have different impacts on health and well-being. Enabling mature aged workers to work longer can yield benefits for both in idual well-being and government budgets.
Home and community care services: a major opportunity for preventive health care
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-05-2010
Thirty years of the U nited N ations and global ageing: An A ustralian perspective
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-2013
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12101
Abstract: Over the past three decades, the United Nations (UN) has slowly devoted increasing attention to global ageing. Concern for in idually based welfare or health-care programs for older people in developed countries has progressed to also consider the contributions of older people and implications of ageing for socioeconomic advancement in developing countries, including those in Asia Oceania. These shifts are evident in the International Plans of Action on Ageing from Vienna in 1982 to Madrid in 2002 recent 10-year reviews of the Madrid Plan and current advocacy for inclusion of ageing in the influential UN Millennium Plan post-2015. Australia has demonstrated progressive policies and contributed to ageing developments by the UN, International Federation on Ageing the World Health Organization and the International Association of Gerontology. Key ideas driving further action are the importance of valuing people at all ages, addressing inequalities over the life-course and implementing human rights approaches to ageing.
The changing face of ageing research and practice in Australia over the last 50 years
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2011
Cities, environmental stressors, ageing and chronic disease.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-07-2012
Trajectories of older adults' hearing difficulties: Examining the influence of health behaviors and social activity over 10 years
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-01-2013
DOI: 10.1111/GGI.12030
Abstract: The aims of the present study were to describe the trajectories of self-reported hearing difficulties over time, and evaluate the impacts of age, sex, lifestyle factors and social activity, in explaining in idual differences in patterns of change over time. As part of the Melbourne Longitudinal Studies on Healthy Aging (MELSHA) Program, the hearing status of 947 adults aged 65 years and older, across five measurement periods (over 10 years), were analyzed using Latent Growth Curve Modeling analysis. A multidimensional survey was also administered, which included questions relating to sociodemographic variables, self-reported hearing difficulties, nutrition, smoking habits and level of social activity. Although there was a general increase in hearing difficulties over time, older age, poor nutrition, a lifetime of smoking and increased social activity predicted more rapid increases in hearing difficulty over time. Findings support the importance of lifestyle factors in reducing the rate of perceived hearing difficulties in older people, and provide further evidence of the links between lifestyle and sensory loss in older people. Poor nutrition and smoking are areas that both clinicians and public health professionals should address in their work with older people.
A simple measure with complex determinants: Investigation of the correlates of self-rated health in older men and women from three continents
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-08-2012
Exploring Workforce Participation Patterns and Chronic Diseases Among Middle-Aged Australian Men and Women Over the Life Course
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 09-07-2016
Abstract: Objective: This study identified associations between chronic diseases (diabetes, asthma, depression, and arthritis) and workforce participation patterns with a gendered perspective. Method: We used data from 1,261 middle-aged participants of the Australian Life Histories and Health (LHH) Survey, aged 60 to 64 years in 2011. Latent class analysis identified dominant workforce patterns and associations between chronic diseases and these patterns were explored by multinomial regression models. Results: Diabetes, asthma, depression, and arthritis were less prevalent in men and women in class “mostly full-time work,” compared with other workforce patterns. The odds of “mostly full-time work” were lower for men reporting depression or arthritis, whereas among women, depression was associated with “increasing part-time work” after adjusting early and adult life factors. Discussion: The results strengthen the importance of gender focused policies aimed to promote and preserve health of young and middle-aged workers, and creating supportive environment for those with chronic health issues over the life course.
Developing Age-Friendly Cities and Communities in Australia
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 12-2014
Abstract: Objective: The aim of the study is to present case studies and assess the impact of political, policy, consultative, and research processes used to implement Age Friendly Cities (AFC) initiatives in Australia. Method: A review and interpretation was conducted based on public documents, community consultations, survey analyses, and participant observation. Results: Governments in Australia have drawn on World Health Organization (WHO) concepts to establish AFC initiatives. In Melbourne, state political leadership established Positive Ageing plans that have reinforced local government actions. In Canberra, a baseline survey and an Older Persons Assembly were followed by modest positive ageing plans. In Sydney, a State Ageing Strategy developed a whole-of-government plan that has yet to be incorporated into budget processes. Discussion: AFC initiatives in Australia have had promising and varied starts with some aims to benefit disadvantaged older people. Notwithstanding the potential benefits, AFC influence on mainstream actions of government has been limited by uncertain political commitment and growing fiscal austerity.
Living well with chronic disease for those older adults living in the community
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 18-01-2017
DOI: 10.1017/S1041610216002398
Abstract: Definitions of successful aging that incorporate dimensions of physical capacity and medical conditions are limited owing to the normative nature of experiencing medical conditions with age. We examine the capacity for older adults living in the community to live well with or without chronic disease as they age. Participants (n = 1,001) were from the Melbourne Longitudinal Studies on Healthy Ageing (MELSHA) study who were aged 65+ years at baseline, were living in the community and followed for 16 years. Aging was associated with not living well (OR = 1.21 p 0.001) and having a chronic disease (OR = 1.09 p 0.001). There was increasing proportion of older adults not living well with chronic disease as they aged. Those not living well were at a substantial risk of death with (OR = 3.63 p 0.001) or without (OR = 3.59 p 0.001) chronic disease. The defining normative experience for older adults is that they are more likely to have a chronic disease and importantly not be living well with chronic disease as they age. However, it was the state of not living well that reflected the most substantial vulnerability for mortality, not chronic disease.
When choice in retirement decisions is missing: Qualitative and quantitative findings of impact on well‐being
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-11-2007
Recruitment for a Panel Study of Australian Retirees
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2003
Abstract: Studies of change flowing from important life-course transitions such as retirement are best conducted using panel designs that allow change to be tracked at an in idual level. However, for many life-course transitions, s le recruitment is especially difficult because no s ling frames exist for what are relatively rare and nonenumerated populations. This article outlines the difficulties encountered and strategies adopted in obtaining a s le of older Australian workers who were about to retire. It explores the fieldwork problems encountered and the effectiveness of alternative recruitment strategies in meeting core s ling goals. Recruitment strategies are evaluated in terms of their cost, efficiency, impact on data quality, and ability to recruit difficult-to-find subtypes of retirees. The experience of this research team is provided to offer guidance and information for other teams as they seek to recruit s les for retirement studies or for other studies of rare and nonenumerated populations.
Body mass index and unintentional weight change associated with all-cause mortality in older Australians: The Melbourne Longitudinal Studies on Healthy Ageing (MELSHA)
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 27-06-2010
Adapting data collection methods in the Australian Life Histories and Health Survey: a retrospective life course study
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-2014
Trajectories of ageing well among older Australians: A 16-year longitudinal study
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 28-03-2018
DOI: 10.1017/S0144686X17000162
Abstract: In this study we used in idual differences concepts and analyses to examine whether older people achieve different ageing-well states universally or whether there are identifiable key groups that achieve them to different extents. The data used in the modelling were from a prospective 16-year longitudinal study of 1,000 older Australians. We examined predictors of trajectories for ageing well using self-rated health, psychological wellbeing and independence in daily living as joint indicators of ageing well in people aged over 65 years at baseline. We used group-trajectory modelling and multivariate regression to identify characteristics predicting ‘ageing well’. The results showed three distinct and sizeable ageing trajectory groups: (a) ‘stable-good ageing well’ (classified as ageing well in all longitudinal study waves which was achieved by 30.2% of women and 28.0% of men) (b) ‘initially ageing well then deteriorating’ (50.5% women and 47.6% men) and (c) ‘stable-poor’ (not ageing well in any wave 19.3% women and 24.4% men). Significant gender differences were found in membership in different ageing-well states. In the stable-poor groups there were 103/533 females which was significantly lower than 114/467 men ( z -statistic = −2.6, p = 0.005) women had a ‘zero’ probability of progressing to a better ageing-well classification in later years, whilst males had a one-in-five probability of actually improving. Robust final state outcome predictors at baseline were lower age and fewer medical conditions for both genders restful sleep and Australian-born for women and good nutrition, decreased strain, non-smoker and good social support for men. These results support that ageing-well trajectories are influenced by modifiable factors. Findings will assist better targeting of health-promoting activities for older people.
Challenges and Opportunities for an Ageing Australia
Publisher: Springer New York
Date: 19-11-2017
The Ethics of Prescribing Medications to Older People
Publisher: Springer New York
Date: 2010
Client Outcomes in Case Managed Care: Who Benefits Most?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-1999
Adequacy of nutritional intake among older men living in Sydney, Australia: findings from the Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project (CHAMP)
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 12-08-2015
DOI: 10.1017/S0007114515002421
Abstract: Previous research shows that older men tend to have lower nutritional intakes and higher risk of under-nutrition compared with younger men. The objectives of this study were to describe energy and nutrient intakes, assess nutritional risk and investigate factors associated with poor intake of energy and key nutrients in community-dwelling men aged ≥75 years participating in the Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project – a longitudinal cohort study on older men in Sydney, Australia. A total of 794 men (mean age 81·4 years) had a detailed diet history interview, which was carried out by a dietitian. Dietary adequacy was assessed by comparing median intakes with nutrient reference values (NRV): estimated average requirement, adequate intake or upper level of intake. Attainment of NRV of total energy and key nutrients in older age (protein, Fe, Zn, riboflavin, Ca and vitamin D) was incorporated into a ‘key nutrients’ variable dichotomised as ‘good’ (≥5) or ‘poor’ (≤4). Using logistic regression modelling, we examined associations between key nutrients with factors known to affect food intake. Median energy intake was 8728 kJ (P5=5762 kJ, P95=12 303 kJ), and mean BMI was 27·7 ( sd 4·0) kg/m 2 . Men met their NRV for most nutrients. However, only 1 % of men met their NRV for vitamin D, only 19 % for Ca, only 30 % for K and only 33 % for dietary fibre. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that only country of birth was significantly associated with poor nutritional intake. Dietary intakes were adequate for most nutrients however, only half of the participants met the NRV of ≥5 key nutrients.
Health status, health behaviours and anxiety symptoms of older male caregivers: Findings from the Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-02-2017
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12376
Abstract: To explore differences between older male caregivers and non-caregivers on health status, health behaviours and well-being, including symptoms of anxiety. Data were collected through self-completed questionnaires and face-to-face interviews with 1705 community living men aged ≥70 in the Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project. Eleven per cent of older men were caregivers, of whom 81.7% were looking after their wives or partners. Older male caregivers did not have worse physical health or more depressive symptoms than non-caregivers, but being a caregiver was associated with increased likelihood of reporting anxiety symptoms (OR: 2.32, 95% CI: 1.39-3.87). Caregivers had similar levels and frequencies of leisure activities but did more housework activities than non-caregivers. Higher anxiety levels were the main adverse health condition in older male caregivers. Strategies to assist minimising anxiety for caregivers should be a target of interventions.
Self-reported medication side effects in an older cohort living independently in the community - The Melbourne Longitudinal Study on Healthy Ageing (MELSHA): Cross-sectional analysis of prevalence and risk factors
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-06-2010
Examining the 16-year trajectories of mental health and wellbeing through the transition into widowhood
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 08-04-2015
DOI: 10.1017/S1041610215000472
Abstract: Becoming widowed is a significant event. There is considerable evidence that surviving partners report substantial changes in their wellbeing and mental health. Changes can occur prior to partner's death as an anticipatory effect and consequently during the period after partner's death. For most, declines in wellbeing and mental health dissipate over time. However, there is a limited long-term evidence to compare age-normative trajectories in mental health and wellbeing with the trajectories of those who transition into widowhood. Participants ( n = 652) were older adults (aged 65–94 years at baseline) from the 16-year Melbourne Longitudinal Studies on Healthy Ageing project who were either married or de facto ( n = 577), or recently widowed ( n = 75). Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) examined the immediate and long-term impact of widowhood. GEE piecewise regression analyses examined the trajectories of wellbeing and mental health in those who transitioned into widowed with time centered at time of partner's death. Analyses were stratified by gender. For both men and women, becoming widowed was strongly related to a strong decline in positive affect post partner's death. Otherwise, no long-term impact of widowhood on negative affect or depressive symptomology was reported. The impact of widowhood reports differential impacts on different indicators of wellbeing and mental health, which were inconsistent between men and women.
Assessing patterns of home and community care service use and client profiles in Australia: a cluster analysis approach using linked data
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 22-11-2011
DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-2524.2011.01040.X
Abstract: The planning and delivery of care systems require knowledge on the ways in which in iduals access available services that are funded by a range of health and community services. The aims of this study were to identify distinct groups of Home and Community Care (HACC) clients in New South Wales, Australia, based on patterns of actual service use, and to understand the health and social needs and resources of client groups that access different mixes of services. Multiple data sets linked at the in idual level - including the 45 and Up Study community survey, the HACC Minimum Data Set and the Admitted Patient Data Collection for hospitals - provide an innovative basis to investigate the complexity of access to service use. Data were collected between 2006 and 2008. A cluster analysis based on clients' type and volume of community service use was conducted on the 4890 HACC clients in the linked dataset and nine distinct clusters of clients were identified. Three of these clusters were considered 'complex', in terms of the range of community and hospital assistance received, while the others comprised mainly of one or two dominant service types. The analytical approach and findings developed here provide a client-centred approach to monitor and evaluate access to local service systems that are being reformed to better integrate the delivery of health and community services currently funded and managed separately by national and state governments.
Determinants of Retirement Timing Expectations in the United States and Australia: A Cross-National Comparison of the Effects of Health and Retirement Benefit Policies on Retirement Timing Decisions
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-2012
DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2012.676324
Abstract: Data from the U.S. Health and Retirement Study (N = 2,589) and the Australian Household Income and Labour Dynamics survey (N = 1,760) were used to compare the macro-level policy frameworks on in idual retirement timing expectations for pre-baby boomers (61+ years) and early baby boomers (45 to 60 years). Australian workers reported younger expected age of retirement compared to the U.S. s le. Reporting poor health was more strongly associated with younger expected retirement age in the United States than in Australia. Cohort and gender differences in the United States were found for the effect of private health insurance on younger expected age at retirement. Our results draw attention to how cross-national comparisons can inform us on the effects of policies on retirement expectations among older workers.
AGEING, THE FAMILY AND PUBLIC POLICY
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-1982
Cross-national insights into the relationship between wealth and wellbeing: a comparison between Australia, the United States of America and South Korea
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 24-02-2011
DOI: 10.1017/S0144686X11000080
Abstract: The positive relationship between wealth and wellbeing has received considerable attention over the last three decades. However, little is known about how the significance of wealth for the health and wellbeing of older adults may vary across societies. Furthermore, researchers tend to focus mainly on income rather than other aspects of financial resources even though older adults often rely on fixed income, particularly after retirement. Using data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey (N=1,431), the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) in the United States of America (USA N=4,687), and the Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing (KLoSA N=5,447), this exploratory cross-national study examined the relationship between wealth satisfaction and objective wealth and wellbeing (measured as self-rated health and life satisfaction) among older Australians, Americans and Koreans (50+ years). Regression analyses showed that wealth satisfaction was associated with wellbeing over and above monetary wealth in all three countries. The relationship between monetary wealth and self-rated health was larger for the US than Australian and Korean s les, while the additional contribution of wealth satisfaction to life satisfaction was larger for the Korean than the Australian and US s les. These findings are discussed in terms of the cultural and economic differences between these countries, particularly as they affect older persons.
Multimorbidity, health and aging in Canada and Australia: a tale of two countries
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-09-2016
To continue, modify or relinquish driving: Findings from a longitudinal study of healthy ageing
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2008
DOI: 10.1159/000111489
Abstract: i Background: /i The number and proportion of drivers among people entering later life continues to rise. More information on patterns of driving for older adults is required to improve service provision and traffic planning. i Objectives: /i To map the changes in driving status for a s le of drivers aged 65 years or older over the period 1994–2000, and to identify factors associated with older people continuing, modifying or relinquishing their status as drivers. i Methods: /i The 752 participants were drawn from the Melbourne Longitudinal Studies on Healthy Ageing (MELSHA) program, a longitudinal study of people aged 65 years and older living in the community. Participants were interviewed or contacted for follow-up in 1994, 1996, 1998 and 2000 on a range of topics including their health, functional independence and driving status. i Results: /i Although the number of recent drivers was smaller as participants died or were admitted to nursing homes over the 6-year data collection period, relatively few participants relinquished driving while remaining in the community. Many drivers reported modifying their driving habits over time, including decisions to restrict their driving to their local area during daylight only. Relationships were explored between driving status and the key variables of age, gender, marital status, instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) independence and self-rated measures of income, health, eyesight and hearing. Multivariate analyses indicated that drivers were more likely to modify their driving habits if they were older, dependent in IADL, and rated their eyesight as poor. Similar factors predicted relinquishing driving, but in addition, women were three times more likely to relinquish driving than men (even when health and disability were taken into account) and people who rated their incomes as ‘comfortable’ were more likely to relinquish driving than those with lower incomes. i Conclusions: /i This study confirmed previous evidence that older drivers self-regulate by modifying their driving behavior as they age. However, since few drivers voluntarily relinquish driving, further research is required to identify ways of supporting older drivers to continue to drive safely.
The impact of childhood parental quality on mental health outcomes in older adults
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 24-04-2017
DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2017.1317331
Abstract: Parental bonding is cited as a determinant of mental health outcomes in childhood, adolescence and early-mid adulthood. Examination of the long-term impact for older adults is limited. We therefore examine the long-term risk of perceived poor parental bonding on mental health across the lifespan and into early-old age. Participants (N = 1255) were aged 60-64 years of age and drawn from the Australian Life Histories and Health study. Quality of parental bonding was assessed with the Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI). Self-reported history of doctors' mental health diagnoses and current treatment for each participant was recorded. Current depression was assessed with the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression-8 (CESD-8). Due to known gender differences in mental health rates across the lifespan, analyses were stratified by sex. A bi-factor analysis of the PBI in a structural equation framework indicated perceived Poor Parental Quality as a risk for both ever and current depression for both sexes. For males, Over-Protective Fathers were a risk for ever and current depression, whilst overall Poor Parental Quality was a risk for reporting current depression treatment. Whilst a number of the risks associated with current depression and treatment were attenuated when controlling for current mood, parental quality remained a significant risk for having reported a lifetime diagnosis for depression and anxiety for men. Our results extend the existing literature base and demonstrate that mental health risk attributed to poor perceived parental quality continues across the life-course and into early-old age.
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Amount: $12,700,000.00
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View Funded ActivityLinkage Projects - Grant ID: LP0882748
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View Funded ActivitySpecial Research Initiatives - Grant ID: SR0354689
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Amount: $30,000.00
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View Funded ActivityLinkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE0775510
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