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Change and Continuity in Ageing—The Selected Papers from the 26th...
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Change and Continuity in Ageing—The Selected Papers from the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology (NKG)

A special issue of Journal of Ageing and Longevity (ISSN 2673-9259).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 January 2023) | Viewed by 14005

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Paolo Caserotti

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Guest Editor
Center for Active and Healthy Ageing, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
Interests: physical activity; sedentary behaviour and exercise; nutrition; complex interventions; primary prevention; physical function and disability
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Charlotte Juul Nilsson

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Section of Social Medicine, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, DK-1014 Copenhagen, Denmark
Interests: functional ability; ageing; early ageing; lifecourse studies; social inequality in health, social relations and loneliness
Dr. Jette Thuesen

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Public Health, Unit for User Perspectives and Community-Based Interventions, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
Interests: everyday life perspectives; ageing; dementia; rehabilitation and complex interventions; implementation; institutional ethnography

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to announce the Special Issue entitled, “Change and Continuity in Ageing – The Selected Papers from the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology (NKG)”, to be published in JAL.

This will be a collection of high-quality papers (original research articles or comprehensive review papers) published in open access form by Editorial Board Members, or prominent scholars invited by the Editorial Office and the section Editor-in-Chief.

Life is about change and continuity. Our experience of ourselves and our surroundings continuously evolve throughout life. For most people, later life is often characterized by major transitions, moving towards frailty and multiple losses—but it may also be a part of life when one has more time to engage in preferred activities, explore new possibilities, and to come to terms and cope with new challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a challenge to the world, particularly to frail and vulnerable people and societies. However, it has also given us valuable new insights and reminded us of the values in life.

This Special Issue aims at exploring questions regarding change and continuity through the perspective of ageing and later life by presenting new cutting-edge knowledge from selected works within the areas of: i) digitization and technology; ii) housing, generations and mobility; iii)  lifestyle, engagement and transition; iv) education and competences in ageing societies; v) morbidity, medical treatment and ageing processes; and vi) a good life and a good death.

This Special Issue will be ideal for disseminating research findings, sharing innovative ideas within the field, and making an important contribution to the community.

We invite either research papers with a detailed summary or papers highlighting the state-of-the-art developments in one of the mentioned areas that were presented as keynote, poster, oral or symposium presentations at the 26NKG. Contributions to this important Special Issue will thus be accepted by invitation only. 

You are welcome to send a tentative title and a short abstract to our Editorial Office (ageing@mdpi.com) for evaluation before submission. Please note that selected full papers will still be subjected to a thorough and rigorous peer-review.

We are looking forward to receiving your excellent work.

Prof. Dr. Paolo Caserotti
Dr. Charlotte Juul Nilsson
Dr. Jette Thuesen
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. Journal of Ageing and Longevity is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly 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 1000 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

  • technology
  • housing
  • generations
  • mobility
  • lifestyle
  • transition
  • education
  • morbidity
  • medical treatment
  • quality of life
  • quality of death
  • physical health
  • mental health
  • loneliness
  • social networks and isolation
  • nutrition
  • physical activity and exercise
  • gerontology
  • cultural gerontology
  • death and dying
  • lived experience

Published Papers (7 papers)

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12 pages, 242 KiB  
Article
Artful Ageing, Not Just Successful Ageing
by Tine Fristrup and Jon Dag Rasmussen
J. Ageing Longev. 2023, 3(2), 179-190; https://doi.org/10.3390/jal3020014 - 14 Jun 2023
Viewed by 1487
Abstract
In this article, we develop a tentative philosophy to orchestrate and support possibilities for artful ageing. This effort argues that older adults need a broader range of opportunities to explore the manifold ephemeral, non-rational, and in-between elements of an ageing life. The philosophy [...] Read more.
In this article, we develop a tentative philosophy to orchestrate and support possibilities for artful ageing. This effort argues that older adults need a broader range of opportunities to explore the manifold ephemeral, non-rational, and in-between elements of an ageing life. The philosophy is rooted in the notion that older adults need space (literally and metaphorically) to explore and process their existence and that engaging in such processes can entail emancipatory effects in everyday life. The perspective unfolded throughout the article is a philosophical venture, or, rather, a preliminary work, developing the concept of artful ageing as a tool applicable in rethinking and broadening the range of activities occurring in institutional settings dedicated to older adults. Furthermore, the perspective also presents a critical stance towards normative footings and biopolitical agendas embedded in current regimes of active ageing. Artful ageing represents the ambition to enable and support artful lives, events, and activities among residents and participants in care homes and other contexts. We argue that physical and existential spaces are closely intertwined entities and that initiatives aimed at maintaining adequate measures of openness, ambiguity, and sensory intimacy, i.e., events that allow for the experience of metaphorical cracks, can afford artful pockets in which to reside for a while, seek refuge, recharge, stray from the beaten track, and obtain an always partial feeling of emancipation. In qualifying the concept of artful ageing, we hope to open new avenues to contemplate and subsequently initiate activities for older adults that are not just orientated towards physical health in later life. At the same time, our ambition is to develop a critical perspective aimed at challenging existing notions of successful ageing in (re)invigorating the importance of artful processes and experiences as an element inherent to successful ageing, as well. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Change and Continuity in Ageing—The Selected Papers from the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology (NKG))
15 pages, 302 KiB  
Article
Religious Bodies–Lutheran Chaplains Interpreting and Asserting Religiousness of People with Severe Dementia in Finnish Nursing Homes
by Jari Pirhonen, Auli Vähäkangas and Suvi-Maria Saarelainen
J. Ageing Longev. 2023, 3(1), 92-106; https://doi.org/10.3390/jal3010008 - 02 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1547
Abstract
The prevalence of dementia is increasing globally as populations grow older. Moderate and severe dementia are the main reasons for older people entering long-term care in Finland, and the vast majority of nursing home residents have it. Regarding mild dementia, religiousness is known [...] Read more.
The prevalence of dementia is increasing globally as populations grow older. Moderate and severe dementia are the main reasons for older people entering long-term care in Finland, and the vast majority of nursing home residents have it. Regarding mild dementia, religiousness is known to slow the progress of the disease, offer solace, and maintain a life-long identity. However, we know practically nothing about the religiousness of people with severe dementia. This study sought to fill the gap by interviewing Lutheran chaplains working in Finnish nursing homes. The data were subjected to qualitative content analysis to understand: (I) how people with severe dementia may express their remaining religiousness and (II) how the chaplains asserted the religiousness of people whom their words often did not reach. The clearest expressions of religiousness found were bodily, including expressions of emotions and fumbling liturgical movements. The chaplains utilized prayer services, active presence, and generational intelligence to respond to residents’ religiousness. The main conclusion is that people with severe dementia can express their faith and are eager to practice it when opportunities are provided to do so. Our research challenges care providers and religious communities to better acknowledge the religiousness of people with severe dementia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Change and Continuity in Ageing—The Selected Papers from the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology (NKG))
13 pages, 905 KiB  
Article
How Families’ Use of Digital Technology Can Be a Tool for Reducing Loneliness and Improving Food Intake among Older Adults
by Ida Synnøve Bårvåg Grini and Øydis Ueland
J. Ageing Longev. 2023, 3(1), 46-58; https://doi.org/10.3390/jal3010004 - 25 Jan 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2228
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore how a technical solution implemented among older adults and connected with an app supervised by an app administrator can reduce loneliness, prevent malnutrition, and inspire social eating and networking. In October 2020, a survey was [...] Read more.
The purpose of this study was to explore how a technical solution implemented among older adults and connected with an app supervised by an app administrator can reduce loneliness, prevent malnutrition, and inspire social eating and networking. In October 2020, a survey was distributed to 3500 administrators of the one-button computer communication tool Komp. Komp consists of a screen placed with older adults and an app used by the administrator of the tool. The survey addresses aspects that can provide new insights into how older adults can use digital solutions as a link to family and external networks. The study results show that due to COVID-19, 65% of respondents said they used Komp more frequently than before, but only 5% of current use was associated with eating meals together. However, 54% of the app administrators indicated that this could be a good future activity. Furthermore, 88% thought Komp could contribute to more socializing through shared meals. This study elicited almost 1650 constructive comments on experience, use, and recommendations. The study results show that digital solutions can be a link between older adults and their families and external network. Such tools can address needs connected to loneliness, social isolation, and food intake. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Change and Continuity in Ageing—The Selected Papers from the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology (NKG))
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13 pages, 689 KiB  
Article
Association between Malnutrition Risk Factors and Physical Function in Community-Dwelling Adults ≥80 Years
by Sussi F. Buhl, Pia Ø. Olsen, Trine Thilsing and Paolo Caserotti
J. Ageing Longev. 2023, 3(1), 33-45; https://doi.org/10.3390/jal3010003 - 06 Jan 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2108
Abstract
Malnutrition is associated with accelerated loss of physical function in old adults, but the assessment of malnutrition in primary prevention is challenging. This study aimed to investigate if malnutrition risk factors; poor appetite, dysphagia, and poor dental state, were associated with reduced physical [...] Read more.
Malnutrition is associated with accelerated loss of physical function in old adults, but the assessment of malnutrition in primary prevention is challenging. This study aimed to investigate if malnutrition risk factors; poor appetite, dysphagia, and poor dental state, were associated with reduced physical function in community-dwelling adults ≥80 years. The study is based on data from two cross-sectional studies. Physical function was assessed by the Short Physical Performance Battery (score ≤ 9 indicate reduced physical function) and poor appetite, dysphagia and poor dental status was assessed by single questions. A total of 900 participants were included (age 85.1 ± 3.7 years; 60.9% females; 62.8% had reduced physical function). Participants with reduced physical function were older, had a higher BMI, more polypharmacy, more falls, and lower quality of life. Poor appetite was reported by 10.8% and associated with reduced physical function (adjusted-OR 1.93, 95%CI 1.18–3.15). No association was identified between dysphagia, poor dental state and reduced physical function (adjusted-OR 0.96, 95%CI 0.53–1.75 and adjusted-OR 0.99, 95%CI 0.41–2.35, respectively). The assessment of appetite during primary preventive strategies was feasible and may offer an opportunity for identification of very old community-dwelling adults at risk of reduced physical function. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Change and Continuity in Ageing—The Selected Papers from the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology (NKG))
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10 pages, 255 KiB  
Article
Healthcare Professionals’ Perspectives on the Outgoing Geriatric Team: A Qualitative Explorative Study
by Sanne Have Beck and Dorthe Susanne Nielsen
J. Ageing Longev. 2022, 2(4), 316-325; https://doi.org/10.3390/jal2040026 - 09 Dec 2022
Viewed by 1486
Abstract
The need for communication and collaboration increases when an older patient is discharged from the hospital, as the transition of care is complex for older patients living with multiple concurrent diseases. An intervention: The outgoing geriatric team was developed and initiated to address [...] Read more.
The need for communication and collaboration increases when an older patient is discharged from the hospital, as the transition of care is complex for older patients living with multiple concurrent diseases. An intervention: The outgoing geriatric team was developed and initiated to address these patients’ complex needs. The outgoing geriatric team aimed to collaborate with healthcare professionals at a skilled nursing facility. This study explored how the intervention was experienced by the healthcare professionals from both the outgoing geriatric team and the skilled nursing facility. The study employed a qualitative explorative design using semi-structured interviews. Fourteen healthcare professionals participated in the interviews. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clark’s thematic analysis. Three themes emerged: (1) The need for personal contact and communication; (2) the need for competent care and sensitive observation; and (3) the need for clarification of responsibilities. The study emphasized the importance of meeting face-to-face during cross-sectoral collaboration when treating and caring for patients with complex care needs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Change and Continuity in Ageing—The Selected Papers from the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology (NKG))

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230 pages, 1171 KiB  
Conference Report
Abstracts from the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology
by Jette Thuesen, Charlotte Nilsson and Paolo Caserotti
J. Ageing Longev. 2023, 3(3), 203-432; https://doi.org/10.3390/jal3030016 - 11 Jul 2023
Viewed by 3005
Abstract
This paper is dedicated to the research presented at the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology in Odense, Denmark, in June 2022, which was organized by the Danish Gerontological Society and the Danish Society for Geriatrics. The overall topics of the congress were change [...] Read more.
This paper is dedicated to the research presented at the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology in Odense, Denmark, in June 2022, which was organized by the Danish Gerontological Society and the Danish Society for Geriatrics. The overall topics of the congress were change and continuity. Participants were invited to explore questions on change and continuity from the perspective of ageing and later life within the following congress themes: digitisation and technology; housing, generations and mobility; lifestyle, engagement and transition; education and competences in ageing societies; morbidity, medical treatment and ageing processes; and a good life and a good death. Life is about change and continuity. We experience ourselves and our surroundings differently throughout our lives. For most people, later life is characterized by major transitions, moving towards frailty and multiple losses. But it may also be a part of life with more time to engage in preferred activities, explore new possibilities, and to cope and come to terms with new challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a challenge to the world beyond imagination, particularly for frail and vulnerable people and societies. However, it also provided valuable new insights and reminded us of the values in life. We, therefore, also welcomed presentations and discussions on societal perspectives such as citizen perspective, ethnicity, inequality, sustainability and ecology, the pandemic and lockdown. We thank the organizers, scientific committees and all participants for a great congress with high-quality presentations and discussions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Change and Continuity in Ageing—The Selected Papers from the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology (NKG))
6 pages, 235 KiB  
Brief Report
The Literary Old Age at the Intersection of Medical Practice and Public Health—A Cross-Disciplinary Reading of Ane Riel’s Clockwork
by Troels Mygind Jensen, Nicklas Freisleben Lund, Stine Grønbæk Jensen, Anne Hagen Berg, Anne Marie Mai, Klaus Petersen, Kaare Christensen, Jacob Krabbe Pedersen, Jens Søndergaard and Peter Simonsen
J. Ageing Longev. 2023, 3(2), 153-158; https://doi.org/10.3390/jal3020012 - 09 May 2023
Viewed by 1233
Abstract
Recent decades have witnessed the coming of age of ‘literary gerontology’, a discipline situated at the intersection of literary studies and gerontology. A key argument of this research is that literature and literary criticism can highlight the complexities and ambiguities of age, ageing [...] Read more.
Recent decades have witnessed the coming of age of ‘literary gerontology’, a discipline situated at the intersection of literary studies and gerontology. A key argument of this research is that literature and literary criticism can highlight the complexities and ambiguities of age, ageing and later life. As such, the discipline insists on the relevance of literature within the field of gerontology. This study explores this claim from an interdisciplinary perspective and presents the key findings of an exploratory collaboration between researchers representing literature studies, anthropology, history, public health and medicine. The members of the research team took part in a joint reading, analysis and discussion of Danish author Ane Riel’s novel, Clockwork, which depicts an ageing protagonist’s reconcilement with old age and death. These efforts resulted in dual dimensions of insight: a realistic dimension, which may be interpreted as a confirmation of the existing knowledge of ageing and wellbeing, characterized by physical and cognitive challenges; and an imaginary dimension, a type of knowledge distilled in the interaction between the reader and the literary work. The reader can be seen to be tasked with identifying with the protagonist, with this process providing a hitherto unknown perspective on how ageing is experienced, how it feels and what it means. The study exemplifies an approach fostering cross-disciplinary inspiration, which may stimulate novel research hypotheses and ultimately inform public health thinking and medical practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Change and Continuity in Ageing—The Selected Papers from the 26th Nordic Congress of Gerontology (NKG))
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