Age and growth assessment of the near-threatened fish Rita rita (Siluriformes: Bagridae) in the Ganges basin

Introduction: Rita rita is a freshwater catfish under threat of extinction, mainly from loss of breeding and nursing grounds. A reliable method for age and growth estimation is needed by fishery managers. Objective: To identify the best body structure for age and growth estimation. Methods: We assessed estimates precision based on Average Percent Error (APE), Coefficient Variation (CV), and Percent Agreement (PA) between readers separately analyzed each calcified structure. We used 390 fish samples from three rivers, Ganga, Yamuna and Ramganga, from September 2018 to August 2019. Results: The three indicators favored the use of vertebrae for age estimation; the growth band seems to be annual and formed from May to September. The growth equations were Lt = 90.19(1-e-0.145(t+0.51)) for Ganga; Lt = 91.19 (1-e-0.14(t+0.59)) for Yamuna and Lt = 89.63 (1-e-0.15(t+0.68)) for Ramganga. Conclusion: This species reaches moderate growth in these rivers, where vertebrae are the recommended age estimation structure, followed, in case of need, by sectioned otoliths, whole otoliths and opercular bones. Pectoral spines should be avoided, especially in older fish.

Introducción: Rita rita es un pez de agua dulce bajo amenaza de extinción, principalmente por la pérdida de sitios de reproducción y crianza. Un método fiable para las estimaciones de edad y crecimiento es necesario para los administradores de recursos pesqueros. Objetivo: Identificar la mejor estructura corporal para estimaciones de edad y crecimiento. Métodos: Evaluamos la precisión de las estimaciones mediante el Porcentaje de Error Promedio (APE), Coeficiente de Variación (CV), y Porcentaje de Acuerdo (PA) entre lecturas para cada estructura calcificada. Usamos 390 muestras de peces de tres ríos, Ganga, Yamuna y Ramganga, de setiembre 2018 hasta agosto 2019. Resultados: Los tres indicadores favorecieron el uso de vértebras para la estimación de edad; la banda de crecimiento parece ser anual y se forma entre mayo y setiembre. Las ecuaciones de crecimiento fueron Lt = 90.19(1-e-0.145(t+0.51)) para Ganga; Lt = 91.19 (1-e-0.14(t+0.59)) para Yamuna y Lt = 89.63 (1-e-0.15(t+0.68)) para Ramganga. Conclusión: La especie alcanza un crecimiento moderado en estos ríos, dónde las vértebras son la estructura de estimación etaria recomendada, seguido de, en caso de ser necesario, los otolitos segmentados, otolitos enteros y huesos operculares. Debe evitarse el uso de espinas pectorales, especialmente en peces de mayor edad.

Evaluación clínica y psicosocial de adultos mayores en un área de salud

Introducción: el envejecimiento se define como un proceso dinámico, progresivo e irreversible, en el que intervienen múltiples factores biológicos, psíquicos y sociales, los cuales están interrelacionados entre sí. El envejecimiento de la población mundial avanza a ritmo acelerado. Objetivo: caracterizar aspectos clínico-epidemiológicos y psicosociales presentes en la tercera edad. Materiales y métodos: se realizó una investigación epidemiológica, descriptiva, exploratoria y de corte transversal, a la población de adultos mayores de dos consultorios del médico de la familia pertenecientes al Policlínico Docente Raúl Sánchez, de Pinar del Río, entre enero de 2020 y enero de 2021. El universo estuvo conformado por 252 pacientes de ambos sexos. La muestra estuvo constituida por 232 personas, y se eligió a través de un muestreo intencional por criterios. En la investigación se usaron una encuesta que sirvió para obtener la información de cada anciano, y el método porcentual para el análisis estadístico. Resultados: en la muestra estudiada predominaron el sexo femenino, las edades entre 65 y 69 años, el nivel de escolaridad primario, el estado civil casado, y la convivencia con familiares y el buen funcionamiento familiar. Respecto a los hábitos tóxicos, predominó el de fumar, y entre las enfermedades más frecuentes estuvieron la hipertensión arterial y la cardiopatía isquémica, con un gran consumo de medicamentos. Conclusiones: hubo un elevado índice de ancianos con factores epidemiológicos relacionados con la vejez, así como con otros de tipo psicosocial que afectan su salud.

Introduction: ageing is defined as a dynamic, progressive and irreversible process, involving multiple biological, psychical and social processes that are interrelated. The ageing of the world population advances at an accelerated pace. Objective: to characterize clinical-epidemiological and psycho-social aspects present in the elderly. Materials and methods: an epidemiological, descriptive, exploratory and cross-sectional study was carried out on the population of older people from two family doctor's offices belonging to the Teaching Polyclinic Raul Sanchez, from Pinar del Rio, between January 2020 and January 2021. The universe consisted of 252 patients of both sexes. The sample consisted of 232 persons, and was chosen through an intentional sampling by criteria. In the research, a survey was used to obtain the information of each elderly people, and the perceptual method for the statistical analysis. Results: the female sex, ages between 65 and 69 years; primary schooling level, married marital status, living with relatives and good family functioning predominated in the studied sample. Regarding toxic habits, smoking predominated, and arterial hypertension and ischemic heart disease, with a high consumption of medications, were among the most frequent diseases. Conclusions: there was a high rate of elder people with epidemiological factors related to older age, as well as with others of the psycho-social kind that affect their health.

Estimación de brechas de geriatras en Chile / Estimation of geriatrician gaps in Chile

Antecedentes: el envejecimiento de la población chilena y la transición epidemiológica que atraviesa el país, ha incrementado la necesidad de formar, entre otros especialistas, a médicos geriatras. Objetivo: estimar la brecha de geriatras en Chile de acuerdo con necesidades epidemiológicas de la población de 65 años y más. Método: se realizó una estimación de brecha de horas de geriatra para la red de salud, a partir de una consulta a 57 geriatras de laboralmente activos de un total de 156 geriatras registrados a enero del 2021. En dicha consulta se indagó sobre tiempo de duración de consulta y frecuencia de consultas ideales de acuerdo con la capacidad funcional de las personas mayores a nivel nacional y por región obtenida de la encuesta Casen 2017. Resultados: a febrero del 2022 existe un total de 162 geriatras en Chile, cifra que equivale a un geriatra por cada 15.806 personas de 65 años y más. De acuerdo con la estimación realizada, se requeriría en Chile, un total de 1.244.689 horas de geriatra anual, equivalentes a la existencia de 589 geriatras a nivel nacional. Conclusión: según los resultados del estudio, a nivel nacional se necesitarían de un total de 589 geriatras para cubrir las necesidades de atención de las personas mayores con algún nivel de dependencia. De acuerdo con estas cifras, al primer trimestre del 2022 el país presentaría una brecha de 427 geriatras. Ante lo elevada de esta brecha, se cree necesario avanzar en estrategias de formación general en geriatría y gerontología en los equipos de salud y socio-sanitarios.

Background:The ageing between the Chilean population and the epidemiological transition that the country is going through has increased the need to train, among other specialists, geriatric doctors.Objective: To estimate the gap between geriatricians in Chile according to the epidemiological needs of the population aged 65 years and over. Method:An estimate of the gap in geriatrician hours was made for the health network based on a consultation of 57 active geriatricians out of 156 registered as of January 2021. In this consultation, the duration and frequency of ideal consultations were inquired according to the functional capacity of the elderly at the national level and by region obtained from the Casen 2017 survey.Results: as of February 2022, there are 162 geriatricians in Chile, equivalent to one geriatrician for every 15,806 people aged 65 years and over. According to the estimate, a total of 1,244,689 hours of annual geriatrician would be required in Chile, equivalent to 589 geriatricians nationwide. Conclusion:According to the study's results, at the national level, a total of 589 geriatricians would be needed to cover the care needs of older people with some level of dependen-ce. According to these figures, in the first quarter of 2022, the country would present a gap of 427 geriatricians. Given the highness of this gap, it is believed necessary to advance general training strategies in geriatrics and gerontology in health and socio-health teams

Saúde mental de idosos: uma análise da série Unidade Básica (2016) / Mental health of older adults: an analysis of the series Unidade Básica(2016) / Salud mental del las personas mayores: un análisis de la serie Unidade Básica (2016)

Este artigo tem o objetivo de analisar dois episódios da primeira temporada da Unidade Básica (2016), a fim de identificar sentidos sobre a saúde mental de idosos. Esta série televisiva foi divulgada pela Universal Channel e escrita por Helena Petta, Newton Cannito e Ana Petta. Apenas dois episódios compõem o corpus desta pesquisa; os outros foram desconsiderados por não abordarem o tema. O primeiro trata de Vilma, uma idosa que abandonou o autocuidado por causa da depressão, e o quarto fala sobre Eraldo, um idoso que ficou depressivo em razão de problemas financeiros, amorosos e alcoólicos. A análise de narrativas será utilizada como metodologia, possibilitando a identificação e a interpretação crítica dos sentidos sobre idosos e saúde mental. De forma geral, os resultados revelaram que os episódios não seguem uma visão holística, desconsiderando, portanto, a necessidade de cuidar da saúde física e mental das pessoas idosas para lhes proporcionar bem-estar.

This article aims to analyze two episodes of the first season of Unidade Básica (2016) in order to identify meanings about the mental health of older adults. This series was broadcast by Universal Channel and written by Helena Petta, Newton Cannito and Ana Petta. Only two episodes compose the corpus of this research; the others were disregarded because they do not deal with the theme. The first episode narrated the story of Vilma, an older woman who was depressed and then abandoned self-care. The fourth episode was about Eraldo, an older man who became depressed due to his financial, love and alcoholic problems. The narrative analysis was used as a methodology, enabling the identification and critical interpretation of meanings about older people and mental health. In general, the results reveal that the episodes do not follow a holistic view, disregarding the need to take care of physical and mental health to provide the well-being of them.

Este artículo tiene como objetivo analizar dos episodios de la primera temporada de Unidade Básica(2016) con el fin de identificar significados sobre la salud mental de los adultos mayores. Esta serie fue transmitida por Universal Channel y escrita por Helena Petta, Newton Cannito y Ana Petta. Sólo dos episodios constituyen el corpus de esta investigación; los demás fueron descartados por no retratar el tema. El primer episodio narra la historia de Vilma, una mujer la tercera edad que abandonó el autocuidado a causa de su estado de depresión. El cuarto episodio fue sobre Eraldo, un hombre también de la tercera edad, que se deprimió por problemas económicos, amorosos y alcohólicos. Se utilizó como metodología el análisis narrativo, que permitió la identificación e interpretación crítica de significados sobre las personas mayores y la salud mental. En general, los resultados revelan que los dos episodios no siguen una visión holística, desconociendo la necesidad de cuidar de la salud física y mental para proporcionar bienestar a las personas mayores.

A Systematic Review on Caregiver’s Burden Among Caregivers of Dementia Patients in Malaysia

@#Introduction: Increasing prevalence of dementia and the associated caregiving burden are expected due to longer life expectancy. This review aimed to critically assess dementia-driven caregiving burden and the associated factors in Malaysia. Methods: A systematic search using several combinations of keywords was conducted in Ovid Medline, PubMed, Science Direct, ProQuest, and Ebscohost databases. The primary outcome was the score or level of caregiver burden, while the secondary outcome was the factors associated with such burden. The quality of the individual articles was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Results: The systematic search resulted in seven studies being reviewed, consisting of six cross-sectional studies and one quasi-experimental study. Using the Zarit Burden Interview, two studies reported moderate caregiver burden with mean scores of 35.4 (15.08) and 46.0 (17.0). High levels of burden or strain were reported using the Caregiver Strain Index in other studies. The three main associated factors with burden identified in these studies were the presence of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), higher education level, and lack of social support. Conclusion: Moderate to severe caregiving burden level were found to be experienced by dementia caregivers in this country. High education, lack of support, as well as taking care of patient with BPSD being the most prominent factors associated with burden. Therefore, burden should be regularly assessed among the dementia caregivers especially among those with lack of social support and manage family members with BPSD, as to prevent adverse outcome from dementia caregiving.

Pressupostos epistemológicos das cidades amigas das pessoas idosas: revisão de escopo / Presupuestos epistemológicos de las ciudades amigables con las personas mayores: revisión de alcance / Epistemological assumptions of age-friendly cities: a scoping review

Resumo Objetivo Identificar os conceitos e perspectivas teóricas que fundamentam os estudos sobre Cidade Amiga da Pessoa Idosa. Métodos Revisão de escopo utilizando seis bancos de dados para identificar estudos publicados em revistas indexadas entre 2007 e 2021 usando as palavras-chave 'age-friendly' OR 'age friendly' OR 'cidade amiga'. Resultados Foram encontrados 2.975 estudos que após aplicação de critérios de exclusão resultaram em 227. Observou-se ampla variação no conceito do termo, porém muitos autores o fizeram replicando a OMS, sendo que em 59,5% dos estudos não houve menção de nenhuma perspectiva teórica. A teoria ecológica foi o referencial mais frequente (26%), sendo o termo usado como um equivalente a envelhecimento ativo. Autores de quatro países respondem pela maioria dos artigos (61%). Conclusão É necessário articular o conceito de Cidade Amiga da Pessoa Idosa com uma abordagem teórica e cultural para compreender mais profundamente as perspectivas do urbano e do social sob a lógica do envelhecimento populacional principalmente para a América Latina. A análise teórica nestes estudos e na gerontologia favorecerão discussões mais críticas sobre o envelhecimento, o idadismo e a crescente desigualdade social em curso.

Resumen Objetivo Identificar los conceptos y perspectivas teóricas que fundamentan los estudios sobre Cuidades Amigables con las Personas Mayores. Métodos Revisión de alcance utilizando seis bancos de datos para identificar estudios publicados en revistas indexadas entre 2007 y 2021, con las palabras clave 'age-friendly' OR 'age friendly' OR 'ciudad amigable'. Resultados Se encontraron 2975 estudios que, luego de aplicar los criterios de exclusión, quedaron 227. Se observó una amplia variación del concepto del término, aunque muchos autores replicaron a la OMS. En el 59,5 % de los estudios no se mencionó ninguna perspectiva teórica. La teoría ecológica fue la referencia más frecuente (26 %), y el término se usó como un equivalente al envejecimiento activo. La mayoría de los artículos (61 %) son de autores de cuatro países. Conclusión Es necesario unir el concepto de Cuidades Amigables con las Personas Mayores con un enfoque teórico y cultural para comprender más profundamente las perspectivas de lo urbano y lo social de acuerdo con la lógica del envejecimiento poblacional, principalmente en América Latina. El análisis teórico en estos estudios y en la gerontología permitirán discusiones más críticas sobre el envejecimiento, el edadismo y la creciente desigualdad social en curso.

Abstract Objective To identify the concepts and theoretical perspectives that underlie studies on age-friendly city. Methods This is a scoping review using six databases to identify studies published in indexed journals between 2007 and 2021 using the keywords 'age-friendly' OR 'age friendly' OR 'cidade amiga'. Results A total of 2,975 studies were found, which, after applying the exclusion criteria, resulted in 227. There was wide variation in the concept of the term, but many authors did so by replicating the WHO, and in 59.5% of studies there was no mention of any theoretical perspective. The ecological theory was the most frequent reference (26%), the term being used as an equivalent to active aging. Authors from four countries account for most articles (61%). Conclusion It is necessary to articulate the concept of age-friendly city with a theoretical and cultural approach to understand more deeply the urban and social perspectives under the logic of population aging, mainly for Latin America. Theoretical analysis in these studies and in gerontology will favor more critical discussions about aging, ageism and the growing social inequality in progress.

Saúde e discriminação no processo de envelhecimento LGBTQIA+ / Health and discrimination in the aging process LGBTQIA+ / Salud y discriminación em el processo de envejecimiento LGBTQIA+

Objetivo: Identificar as experiências e discriminações vividas pela população LGBTQIA+ em envelhecimento durante a prestação dos serviços de saúde. Método: Estudo exploratório de abordagem qualitativa, por meio da aplicação de um questionário com informações sociodemográficas e questões sobre experiências anteriores dentro de instituições de saúde e percepção do cuidado recebido. Resultados: Participaram nove pessoas, predominantemente, identificadas como homens cisgêneros; e, apenas um estava com idade entre 65 e 70 anos. Em sua maioria buscam o serviço de saúde duas vezes ao ano motivado principalmente por problemas particulares, do sistema respiratório, hipertensão arterial ou dores persistentes. Indicaram não haver desencorajamento para a procura de serviços e a maioria não relatou experiências de discriminação. Conclusão: A baixa frequência de discriminação pode indicar a dificuldade de caracterizar a exposição e/ou vivências por esta população. Sendo assim, devese buscar entender o que essa população considera discriminação por parte dos serviços de saúde a pessoas LGBTQIA + durante o processo de envelhecimento.

Objective: To identify the experiences and discrimination experienced by the aging LGBTQIA+ population during the provision of health services. Method: Exploratory study with a qualitative approach, through the application of a questionnaire with sociodemographic information and questions about previous experiences within health institutions and perception of care received. Results: Nine people participated, predominantly identified as cisgender men; and, only one was aged between 65 and 70 years. Most seek the health service twice a year motivated mainly by particular problems, the respiratory system, high blood pressure or persistent pain. They indicated that there was no discouragement to seek services and most did not report experiences of discrimination. Conclusion: The low frequency of discrimination may indicate the difficulty of characterizing the exposure and/or experiences of this population. Therefore, one should seek to understand what this population considers discrimination by health services to LGBTQIA+ people during the aging process.

Objetivo: Identificar las experiencias y la discriminación que vive la población LGBTQIA+ envejecida durante la prestación de los servicios de salud. Método: Estudio exploratorio con enfoque cualitativo, mediante la aplicación de un cuestionario con información sociodemográfica y preguntas sobre experiencias previas dentro de las instituciones de salud y percepción de la atención recibida. Resultados: Participaron nueve personas, predominantemente identificadas como hombres cisgénero; y, solo uno tenía entre 65 y 70 años. La mayoría acude al servicio de salud dos veces al año motivada principalmente por problemas particulares, del sistema respiratorio, hipertensión arterial o dolor persistente. Indicaron que no hubo desánimo para buscar servicios y la mayoría no reportó experiencias de discriminación. Conclusión: La baja frecuencia de discriminación puede indicar la dificultad de caracterizar las exposiciones y/o experiencias de esta población. Por lo tanto, se debe buscar comprender lo que esta población considera discriminación por parte de los servicios de salud a las personas LGBTQIA+ durante el proceso de envejecimiento.

Percepción de calidad de vida por adultos mayores uruguayos: un estudio cualitativo / The Concept of Quality of Life in the Perception of Older Uruguayans: a qualitative study

Resumen El objetivo de este trabajo fue investigar la concepción de calidad de vida en adultos mayores uruguayos, procurando construir un modelo adaptado a ellos. Basado en Teoría Fundamentada, se realizó un estudio cualitativo entre 2017-2018 en varios departamentos de Uruguay. Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a adultos mayores (edad promedio 71 años, DE 5,4) con muestreo teórico y por bola de nieve. Emergió teoría a través de la categoría madre "vivir lo mejor que se puede", interpretada como la concepción de adultos mayores sobre calidad de vida. Los temas emergentes fueron: "eventos del contexto", "vínculo con otros", "actividades frente a la vida" y "estrategias de adaptación". Al enfrentar eventos estresantes, los participantes desarrollan estrategias de adaptación por medio del soporte social y locus interno de control, para alcanzar calidad de vida y un envejecimiento exitoso. La evidencia empírica desarrollada a partir de esta investigación cualitativa retrata un modelo establecido en un contexto etario y cultural específico, en el que interactúan dimensiones sociales y psicológicas para enfrentar el envejecimiento y alcanzar calidad de vida.

Abstract The research objective was to investigate the conception of quality of life in Uruguayan older adults, trying to build a model adapted to them. Based on Grounded Theory, a qualitative study was carried out between 2017-2018 in several regions of Uruguay. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in older adults (mean age 71 years, SD 5.4) with theoretical and snowball sampling. Theory emerged through the core category "living the best as possible", interpreted as the conception of older adults about quality of life. The emerging themes were: "context events", "link with others", "activities facing life" and "adaptation strategies". When facing stressful events, participants develop coping strategies through social support and internal locus of control, to achieve quality of life and successful aging. The empirical evidence developed from this qualitative research portrays a model established from a specific age and cultural context, in which social and psychological dimensions interact to face aging and achieve quality of life.

A Study to Evaluate the Effect of Chyavanprash in Elderly People Having Low Vital Capacity

Ageing is a natural process. Senescence is an expression used for the deterioration in the vitality or the lowering of the biological efficiency that accompanies ageing. Respiratory system undergoes various anatomical, physiological and immunological changes with age. Lungs mature at age 20 to 25 years, and then it decreases about 200 to 250cc every 10 years from 20 years of age. Among elderly health problems, respiratory conditions make 16.1% of the complaints. Chyavanprash, one of the foremost Rasayana is specifically indicated for elderly people. This would be the remedy for improving the respiratory system functioning in aged people, if it could prove the effect in enhancing the vital capacity. Individuals of age 50 years and above were screened by using computerized spirometer. From these, 67 individuals with reduced vital capacity were selected for the study. Spirometric assessment was done. After the assessment, Chyavanprash was administrated. Dosage was fixed as 10gm for a period of 1 month. After 1 month spirometric assessment was done. This shows that there exists a positive response in vital capacity to Chyavanprash. Rasayana, Brmhana, Tridoshahara, and Balya properties evoked a positive response in vital capacity.

Saúde do idoso no contexto do crescimento populacional e das legislações: uma pesquisa ex-post-facto / Health of the elderly in the context of population growth and legislation: an ex-post-fact research / Salud de las personas mayores en el contexto del crecimiento de la población y la legislación: una investigación ex-post-hecho

Objetivo: Conhecer a realidade da atenção à saúde dos idosos no município de João Pessoa no período de 2002 a 2012 iluminando a correlação entre os fenômenos do crescimento populacional e as legislações específicas sobre o tema. Métodos: Trata-se de uma pesquisa do tipo ex-post-factor relacionando a descrição de fatos já ocorridos e seu significado na prática. Resultados: As Portarias 702 de 12/04/2002 e 249 de 16/04/2002, ambas do Ministério da Saúde, criaram, respectivamente, as Redes Estaduais de Assistência à Saúde do Idoso e os Centros de Referência em Atenção à Saúde do Idoso, que não superaram os problemas desta área, devido as carências estruturais (materiais) e profissionais (humanas) dos hospitais gerais. Conclusão: A solução jurídica proposta nas Portarias não se efetivaram e o contingente de idosos do município de João Pessoa encontra-se desamparado, em termos de aportes estruturais e profissionais. (AU)

Objective: Know the reality of health care for the elderly in the city of João Pessoa from 2002 to 2012, highlighting the correlation between the phenomena of population growth and the specific legislation on the subject. Methods: This is an ex-post-factor type research relating the description of facts that have already occurred and their meaning in practice. Results: Ordinances 702 of 12/04/2002 and 249 of 16/04/2002, both from the Ministry of Health, created, respectively, the State Health Assistance Networks for the Elderly and the Reference Centers in Elderly Health Care, who have not overcome the problems in this area, due to the structural (material) and professional (human) deficiencies of general hospitals. Conclusion: The legal solution proposed in the Ordinances has not been implemented and the contingent of elderly people in the city of João Pessoa is helpless, in terms of structural and professional contributions. (AU)

Objetivo: Conocer la realidad de la atención de la salud de las personas mayores en la ciudad de João Pessoa de 2002 a 2012, destacando la correlación entre los fenómenos de crecimiento poblacional y la legislación específica sobre el tema. Métodos: Se trata de una investigación de tipo ex post factorial que relaciona la descripción de hechos que ya han ocurrido y su significado en la práctica. Resultados: Las Ordenanzas 702 de 04/12/2002 y 249 de 16/04/2002, ambas del Ministerio de Sanidad, crearon, respectivamente, las Redes Estatales de Asistencia Sanitaria para Personas Mayores y los Centros de Referencia en Atención Sanitaria para Personas Mayores, que no han superar los problemas en esta área, debido a las deficiencias estructurales (materiales) y profesionales (humanas) de los hospitales generales. Conclusión: La solución legal propuesta en las Ordenanzas no se ha implementado y el contingente de ancianos en la ciudad de João Pessoa está indefenso, en términos de aportes estructurales y profesionales. (AU)

Regional Disparity of Physical Function Limitation Among Older Adults in Thailand.

Thailand was among the first to introduce a universal healthcare coverage among low- and middle-income countries but, regional disparities remain in the health status of people. Using the 2016 Population Change and Well-being in the Context of Ageing Societies, a nationally-representative survey, the prevalence of having limitations in physical function activities, instrumental activities of daily living, or activities of daily living were identified to estimate how each was associated with region of residence, sociodemographic and health behaviour and conditions. It was observed that living in Bangkok was associated with having limitations in any form than the other four regions of the country where generally the socioeconomic status of its older population is lower. Although higher prevalence of functional status was consistently observed in Bangkok, older people in the rural areas have a disadvantage in healthcare because of lower socioeconomic capacity and less access to healthcare facilities.

Effect of age, gender, and body mass index on peak expiratory flow rate and other pulmonary function tests in healthy individuals in the age group 18–60 years

Background: Normal ageing and increasing body mass index (BMI) are related to decline in lung functions in adults in both genders. Females are more likely than age and height-matched males to show smaller lung size and diffusion surface, lower maximal expiratory flow rate, and reduced airway diameter. Lung mechanics and respiratory muscle strength, thoracic compliance, airway resistance, and elastic recoil of the lungs determine the pulmonary function tests (PFTs), and these tests are known to differ with age, sex, socio-economic status, cultural factors, and geographical region of the subject and are related to weight, height and BMI of the individuals. Aim and Objectives: The present study is planned to assess the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and other PFTs and to evaluate the effect of age, gender and BMI on these lung functions. Materials and Methods: This study consists of 200 healthy individuals of age group 18–60 years. A sample was stratified into 5 age groups, and on the basis of BMI, the subjects were categorized as underweight, normal, overweight, and obese. Anthropometric measurements were recorded using standard procedures. PEFR was recorded using Wright’s peak-flow meter and forced vital capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 s (FEV1), FEV1/FVC, FEF25–75%, FEF2–1.2, slow vital capacity (SVC), and maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) were analyzed using Expirograph (Helios 401, RMS, India). Chi-square test was used for analysis of categorical variables. For comparison of two groups, unpaired t-test was used and to assess the relation between the variables, Pearson’s co-relation was used. One way ANOVA was used to compare the difference between the means of more than two groups and Tukey post hoc analysis was done for multiple comparisons. Results: There was highly significant difference in the mean values of PEFR and other PFTs (P < 0.000) among the 5 age groups and a significant difference between younger and older age groups. PEFR, FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEF25–75%, FEF0.2–1.2, SVC, and MVV were negatively correlated with age (r = ?0.514, ?0.535, ?0.568, ?0.255, ?0.566, ?0.516, ?0.304, ?0.523, respectively). Females showed reduced mean values of PEFR, FVC, FEV1, FEF25–75%, FEF0.2–1.2, SVC, MVV when compared to males (P < 0.000), and the differences in the mean values were significantly high. Highly significant difference was seen in the mean values of PEFR and other PFTs among the categories of BMI (P < 0.000). The mean values of FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEF25–75%, FEF0.2–1.2, MVV were lower among underweight compared to their mean values among individuals with normal BMI. There was negative correlation between PEFR, FVC, FEV1, FEF25–75%, FEF0.2–1.2, SVC, MVV, and BMI (r = ?0.327, ?0.254, ?0.238, ?0.269, ?0.254, ?0.236, ?0.195, respectively). Conclusions: PFTs aid in the prompt and accurate diagnosis of respiratory disorders, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease allowing for efficient management by encompassing a thorough understanding of the disease and exercise respiratory training regimens even in otherwise healthy individuals. The present study showed that PEFR and other PFTs decrease with advancing age and BMI and females showed reduced lung functions compared to males.

Safety and efficacy of ayush rasayana A and B in improving functionality of the elderly – A single-arm multicenter study

Background: As per Ayurvedic classics, Ras?yana is a term used for unique therapeutic measures intended to improve cognition, memory, physical strength and delay the degenerative processes. Ayush Rasayana A & B are developed from extracts of herbs pertaining rasayana property. Aims & Objectives: To assess the safety and effectiveness of ‘Ayush Rasayana A and B’ in improving physical endurance, quality of life and cognition of elderly. Materials and Methods: This is an open label, single arm, multi-centre study among 256 apparently healthy elderly between 60?75 years. Ayush Rasayan A was given for 6 days and Ayush Rayana B for 180 days. The effect of the trial drug was seen on functional capacity, quality of life and cognitive function and, safety of the intervention was assessed through haematological and biochemical tests, clinical examination and incidence of adverse events. Results: Significant improvement in 6 minute walk test and HMSE score was observed at 187th as compared to baseline (p<0.0001). Quality of life of the participants especially in domains of physical health, social relationship and environment also improved at the end of intervention period (p<0.0001). The haematological and bio-chemical parameters showed no significant changes as compared to baseline and no adverse events were observed during the study. Conclusion: Ayush Rasayana A and Ayush Rasayana B, both were well tolerated by all the participants. This ayurvedic intervention can be safely given to apparently healthy elderly to improve their functionality, quality of life and cognition. However, a randomized controlled trial is warranted to substantiate the efficacy of this drug.

Association between low level of physical activity and mobility limitation in older adults: evidence from the SABE study / Associação entre baixo nível de atividade física e limitação de mobilidade em idoso: evidência do estudo SABE

Abstract Several studies are limited by verifying the level of physical activity with questionnaires and not through objective measurement in older adults. This article aims to analyze the association between a low level of physical activity with accelerometry) and mobility limitation in older adults. A population-based cross-sectional study conducted with 543 older adults. Multiple regression analysis was performed using hierarchical analysis, grouping the variables into two blocks ordered according to the precedence with which they acted on the outcomes. Among the evaluated older adults, 13.7% presented mobility limitations and among these 60.39% were in the low level of physical activity group. Older adults with a low level of physical activity (OR = 3.49 [2.0 - 6.13]), aged 75 and over (OR = 1.97 [1.03 - 3.72]), living without a partner (OR = 2.01 [1.09 - 3.68]), having difficulty performing basic (OR = 2.49 [1.45 - 4.28]) and instrumental (OR = 2.28) [1.18 - 4.36]) activities of daily life, and multimorbidity (OR = 2.06 [1.04 - 4.08]) were independently associated with mobility limitation. A low level of physical activity increases the chance of mobility limitation in older adults, regardless of sociodemographic and clinical variables.

Resumo Vários estudos são limitados por meio da verificação do nível de atividade física com questionários, mas não possuem medidas objetivas em adultos mais velhos. O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a associação entre um baixo nível de atividade física e limitação de mobilidade em idosos. Um estudo transversal de base populacional realizado com 543 idosos. A análise múltipla da regressão foi realizada usando a análise hierárquica, agrupando as variáveis em dois blocos ordenados de acordo com a precedência com que atuaram sobre os resultados. Entre os idosos avaliados, 13,7% apresentaram limitações de mobilidade e entre estes 60,39% estavam no baixo nível de atividade física. Idosos com um baixo nível de atividade física (OR = 3,49 [2,0 - 6,13]), com idade igual ou superior a 75 anos (OR = 1,97 [1,03 - 3,72]), vivendo sem parceiro (OR = 2,01 [1,09 - 3,68]), dificuldade de viver sem um parceiro (OR = 2,01 [1,09 - 3,68]), dificuldades com atividades básicas (OR = 2,49 [1,45 - 4,28]) e as atividades instrumentais (OR = 2.28) [1.18 - 4.36]) atividades da vida do dia a dia e multimobilidade (OR = 2,06 [1,04 - 4,08]) foram associadas independentemente à mobilidade. Um baixo nível de atividade física aumenta a possibilidade de limitação da mobilidade em adultos idosos, independentemente das variáveis sociodemográficas e clínicas.

Construção e validação de vídeo educativo sobre gestão da idade do trabalhador / Construction and validation of an educational video on occupational age management

Resumo Introdução: a gestão da idade do trabalhador de mais idade refere-se a práticas implantadas nos ambientes de trabalho direcionadas à contratação e/ou retenção de trabalhadores a partir de 45 anos. Objetivo: construir e validar um vídeo educativo sobre a gestão da idade do trabalhador de mais idade. Método: realizou-se um estudo metodológico, dividido em duas etapas: a primeira consistiu na elaboração e validação do conteúdo do vídeo; e a segunda, na produção do vídeo e sua validação por especialistas. Para análise dos dados, foram utilizados o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo Individual e Geral para cada item que compôs o vídeo e o Índice de Concordância Interavaliadores. O critério para validação foi apresentar concordância igual ou superior a 80%. Resultados: a versão final do vídeo tem 9 minutos, contendo definição, benefícios, estratégias para a implantação da gestão da idade do trabalhador pelas instituições e o papel do gestor nesse contexto. Utilizaram-se recursos de imagem do tipo animação e narração. A versão final do vídeo obteve concordância de 100% entre os especialistas para todos os itens, validando-o para aplicação. Conclusão: o processo de validação referendou o vídeo desenvolvido como um instrumento educativo adequado para difundir informações sobre a gestão da idade do trabalhador.

Abstract Introduction: age management at workplaces consists of practices implemented in work environment to hire and/or retain workers aged 45 or older. Objective: to build and validate an educational video on managing the age of the older worker. Method: a methodological study was carried out in two stages: first, the video content was elaborated and validated; second, after edited, the video was validated by experts on the topic. Data analysis was performed using the Individual and Overall Content Validity Index for each item in the video, and the Inter-rater Reliability Index. The validation criterion was presenting an agreement equal or greater than 80%. Results: in its 9-minute final version, the video presents a definition, benefits, strategies for institutions to implement occupational age management practices and the manager's role in this scenario. Editing used animation and narration. The final version obtained a 100% reliability among experts for all items, validating the video. Conclusion: the validation process endorsed the video as a suitable educational tool to disseminate information on occupational age management.

Spatial incompatibility training can prevent the occurrence of the enhanced Simon effect in elderly / Treinamento de incompatibilidade espacial pode prevenir a ocorrência do efeito Simon ampliado em idosos

The Simon effect is typically larger for older people than for young adults, maybe due to age-related decline in inhibitory capabilities. 32 right-handed aged people (5 male, 27 female; mean of 67,1 years ± 5,5) participated in this study. In screening were used the Mini-Mental State Examination and the Center for Epidemiological Study Depression Scale. Then, half of the participants practiced the spatial incompatibility task before the Simon task and the other group was only tested on the Simon task. The analysis of variance considering practice (incompatible, no-practice group) and correspondence (corresponding, non-corresponding) revealed a two-way interaction (F = 7.07; p = 0.012; ηp2 = 0.191) showing that the Simon effect was eliminated in the incompatible practice group, but remained intact in the group with no previous practice. These results indicated that cognitive processes required to the transfer of learning are preserved in elderly, being potentially useful to influence spatial inhibitory capabilities.

O efeito Simon é tipicamente maior em pessoas idosas do que em adultos jovens, talvez devido ao declínio de capacidades inibitórias em função da idade. Participaram deste estudo 32 pessoas idosas e destras (5 homens e 27 mulheres; média de 67,1 anos ± 5,5). Para rastreio, foram usados o Mini Exame do Estado Mental e a escala de depressão do Center for Epidemiological Studies. Metade dos participantes praticou a tarefa de incompatibilidade espacial antes da tarefa de Simon e o outro grupo foi testado apenas na tarefa de Simon. A análise de variância, considerando a prática prévia (incompatível ou sem prática) e correspondência (correspondente, não correspondente), indicou uma interação dupla (F = 7,07; p = 0,012; ηp2 = 0,191), demonstrando que o efeito Simon foi eliminado no grupo de prática incompatível, mas permaneceu ampliado no grupo sem prática anterior. Esses resultados indicaram que os processos cognitivos necessários para transferir a aprendizagem estão preservados em idosos, sendo potencialmente úteis para influenciar as capacidades inibitórias espaciais.

Velhice e envelhecimento: questões e aspectos contemporâneos / Old age and aging: contemporary issues and aspects

O presente estudo pretende estabelecer um olhar sobre a velhice e o envelhecimento, por meio de uma investigação crítica a partir de suas imagens e representações sociais; o laço social, suas vias de efetivação e esgotamento diante dos oferecimentos disponíveis na sociedade, assim como suas implicações em dar sentido à experiência vital; contrastando direitos sociais legislados versus sua real efetivação. Pretende, portanto, estabelecer uma discussão sobre questões acerca de ser velho, da velhice; seus sentidos e tendências, levando em conta as transformações demográficas do Brasil. No desenvolvimento do trabalho foi elaborado um breve histórico sobre as imagens associadas à velhice em diversas épocas, apresentando como ponto de inflexão as mudanças radicais do processo produtivo a partir da modernidade, que possibilitaram a maior longevidade e, consequentemente, a consolidação de uma população de idosos cada vez mais significativa. A pesquisa permite evidenciar que, apesar de tratar-se de uma parcela cada vez mais expressiva da população, principalmente a partir da segunda metade do século XX, o envelhecimento populacional vem sendo considerado de modo insuficiente quanto à sua complexidade e fatores psicossociais, permanecendo fora das agendas políticas. Prevalece uma visão economicista quanto às políticas públicas, assim como o etarismo naturalizado é característica do setor privado, apesar de estratégias midiáticas "inclusivas". Para o desenvolvimento do trabalho estabeleceu-se o diálogo entre literatura, mídia, legislação sobre a pessoa idosa e a teoria psicanalítica freudiana, de maneira ampliada, utilizando uma abordagem metodológica qualitativa por meio de pesquisa bibliográfica, com o propósito de levantar imagens e traços de identificação que relacionem envelhecimento, velhice e cultura, positiva ou negativamente, tecendo críticas que permitam reflexões sobre o presente assim como tendências para o futuro.

The present study intents to discuss aging and old age by critically investigating its images and social representations. It takes into account the social bond, its ways of effectiveness and failure before the offerings available in society, as well as its implications in giving meaning to the life experience. In addition, it contrasts legislated social rights versus their real effectiveness. It intends, therefore, to establish a discussion about questions of being old and old aging, their meanings and trends, taking into consideration the demographic transformations of Brazil. In the development of this study, a brief history was elaborated about the images associated with old age in several historical periods, presenting as a point of inflection the radical changes of the productive process from modernity, which allowed today's longevity and, consequently, the consolidation of an increasingly significant elderly population. The study shows that despite old age being an increasingly substantial portion of the population, aging has been disregarded for its complexity and psychosocial factors, remaining outside of political agenda, mainly from the second half of the twentieth century on. The economic constraint is the prevailing view for public policies, just as naturalized etarism is characteristic of the private sector, despite "inclusive" media strategies. In the development of this study, it was established the dialogue between literature, media, the older person's law, and freudian psychoanalytic theory. This study is based on a qualitative methodological approach in bibliographic research to raise images and identity traits that relate to aging, old age, and culture, positively or negatively, making criticisms that allow reflections on the present and future trends.

Associação entre linguagem e o reconhecimento de expressões faciais de emoções em idosos / The association between language and recognition of facial emotional expressions in elderly individuals

RESUMO Objetivo Verificar a associação entre o bom desempenho de linguagem e o reconhecimento de expressões faciais de emoções em idosos. Método Estudo transversal realizado com 118 idosos dos serviços de atenção primária à saúde de um município paulista. Foram coletados dados sociodemográficos, de desempenho da linguagem pelo domínio do Exame Cognitivo de Addenbrooke - Revisado e de Reconhecimento de Expressões Faciais de Emoções. A amostra foi dividida em tercis de acordo com o desempenho na linguagem: T1 = melhor, T2 = mediano e T3 = pior. Os grupos T1xT3 foram comparados em relação ao desempenho no reconhecimento de expressões faciais de raiva, nojo, medo, alegria, tristeza e surpresa e para as intensidades 40%, 60%, 80% e 100%. A associação das variáveis independentes sobre o desempenho de linguagem foi analisada por meio de regressão logística. O modelo multivariado foi construído a partir dos resultados das análises univariadas e incluiu as variáveis contínuas por emoção e por intensidade. Idade e escolaridade, associadas ao desempenho de linguagem no modelo univariado, foram incluídas no modelo multivariado para ajustar as análises de associação. Resultados A amostra era predominantemente feminina (84,7%), com idade média de 70,5 anos e 3,5 anos de escolaridade. As variáveis ​​associadas ao melhor desempenho de linguagem na análise comparativa de T1 e T3 foram: surpresa (OR= 1,485, IC 95% 1,194 - 1,846) e nojo (OR= 1,143, IC 95% 1,005 - 1,300). Conclusão O reconhecimento de expressões faciais das emoções surpresa e nojo mostraram-se importantes fatores associados ao bom desempenho da linguagem.

ABSTRACT Purpose To check the association between a good performance of language and the recognition of facial emotional expressions in elderly individuals. Methods Transversal study performed with 118 elderly individuals from the primary care services of health of a city in the state of São Paulo. Sociodemographic data were collected, regarding the performance of language through the domain of Addenbrooke Cognitive Examination - Revised and Recognition of Facial Emotional Expressions. The sample was divided in thirds according to the performance of language: T1 = the best, T2 = average, and T3 = the worst. The groups T1xT3 were compared regarding the performance of recognition of facial expressions of anger, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness, and surprise, and for the intensities of 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%. The association of independent variables over the performance of language was analyzed through logistic regression. The multivariate model was built from the results of the univariate analyses and has included the continuous variables by emotion and by intensity. Age and schooling associated to the performance of language in the univariate model were included in the multivariate model in order to adjust association analyses. Results The sample was mainly female (84.7%), with an average age of 70.5 years old, and 3.5 schooling years. The variables associated to the best performance of language in comparative analysis of T1 and T3 were: surprise (OR = 1.485, IC 95% 1.194 - 1.846), and disgust (OR = 1.143, IC 95% 1.005 - 1.300). Conclusion The recognition of facial emotional expressions of surprise and disgust were shown as important factors associated to the good performance of language.

Effect of COVID-19 on older adults 50 years and above living with HIV in a less-developed country

Introduction: Globally, control measures have been communicated to reverse the COVID-19 pandemic. In Uganda, as soon as the first case of COVID-19 was identified, strict lockdown measures were enforced, including a ban on all public and private transport, night curfew, closure of schools, and suspension of religious and social gatherings and closure of non-essential shops and markets. These measures affected access to health services, which could have been worse for older people living with HIV (PLHIV). In this study, we explored how COVID-19 affected the health and social life of older PLHIV. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study in HIV clinics of two hospitals in Uganda. We completed 40 in-depth interviews with adults above 50 years who had lived with HIV for more than 10 years. The interviews explored the effect of COVID-19 on their health and social life during the lockdown. We analysed data thematically. Results: The overarching themes regarding the effects of COVID-19 on older adults living with HIV were fear and anxiety during the lockdown, lack of access to health care leading to missing HIV clinic appointments and not taking their ART medicines, financial burden, loss of loved ones, and effect on children's education. Some patients overcame health-related challenges by sending motorcycles to their health facilities with their identifying documents to get the medicines refilled. Some health care providers took the ART medicines to their patients' homes. Conclusion: The COVID-19 lockdown negatively affected the health and social well-being of older PLHIV. This calls for strategies to improve HIV care and treatment access during the lockdown to sustain the HIV program gains in this vulnerable population.