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• The study revealed the predisposing factors both health literacy and successful aging. • Most of the older adults had an inadequate and limited health literacy and displayed a good level successful aging. • Nurses could design interventions to improve health literacy level of older adults. This study aimed to measure health literacy and successful aging level and their predisposing factors among older adults. A predictive correlational design was performed. The study was completed with 450 older individuals, resulting in a participation rate of 94.9 %. The risk of inadequate and limited health literacy was higher in older adults who were single (3.4 times), those with chronic diseases (2.93 times), and those with medium/poor health perception (3.1 times). A multiple regression model consisting of age, health perception, and health literacy level explained 22 % of the variance in successful aging. The study concluded that health literacy and successful aging were predictive factors of each other. Marital status, education level, having chronic disease, regular medication use, and health perception predicted the health literacy level. Moreover, age, health perception, and health literacy level are significant predictors of successful aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Supports that older individuals who develop healthy lifestyle behaviors age more actively. • Older individuals who do more physical activity are more likely to age healthier and more actively. • Older individuals who eat more healthily are healthier and more active aging. • Supports that older individuals with greater interpersonal development age healthier and more actively. • Older individuals who have more goals and participate in more activities are more likely to age healthy and active. • It supports more active aging of older individuals with higher education levels. • Supports more active aging of older individuals who have fewer children. • It supports more active aging of older individuals with higher spiritual development. With the increase in life expectancy in the world, active aging has become an important issue. This study aims to investigate the relationship between healthy lifestyle behaviors and active aging in the elderly. This study, which used a descriptive and correlational survey model, was conducted with the participation of 145 individuals aged 65 years and over enrolled in the University Hospital in a city center in Türkiye. Research data were collected with the Patient Information Form, Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale-II (HLBS-II), and Active Aging Scale (AAS). Descriptive statistics, Shapiro Wilk test, Student t -test, ANOVA, Tukey test, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis were used in the analysis of the data. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the individuals' HLBS-II and the total score of AAS, at a normal level (r = 0.569). The participating elderlies' Active Aging Scale total mean score was 132.01 ± 27.13, and the Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale-II total mean score was 154.96 ± 18.18. A significant negative correlation was found between age and the total score of the Active Aging Scale. It was determined that healthy lifestyle behaviors contributed positively to the active aging of elderlies. Active aging is negatively affected with increasing age. For the elderly to have an active aging process, it is recommended to strengthen physical activity, nutrition, methods of coping with stress, and spiritual development as much as possible, and to organize applied training programs to protect and improve the health of the elderly and to increase their awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Higher overall plant-based diets index (PDI) was associated with slower progression of phenotypic age (PA) and biological age (BA). • Higher healthy PDI was significantly associated with slower progression of PA and BA. • Higher unhealthy PDI appeared to accelerate the progression of PA and BA. Plant-based diets are recognized for their health benefits. However, evidence on the association between plant-based diet quality and aging in the US population is limited. This study aimed to investigate the association between different plant-based diet indices, phenotypic age acceleration (PhenoAgeAccel), and biological age acceleration (BioAgeAccel). We hypothesized that healthful plant-based diets would negatively affect PhenoAgeAccel and BioAgeAccel in US adults. The cross-sectional analysis included 22,363 participants, and information was obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database. The quality of plant-based diet was assessed using 3 indices: overall plant-based diet index (PDI), healthful PDI (hPDI), and unhealthful PDI (uPDI). Phenotypic age (PA) and biological age (BA) was calculated based on a linear combination of chronological age and 12 multi-system clinical chemistry biomarkers in accordance with the previously established method. PhenoAgeAccel and BioAgeAccel are the residuals of the PA and BA. Weighted linear regression analyses were performed to evaluate the relationships between PDI, hPDI and uPDI, and PhenoAgeAccel and BioAgeAccel. After adjusting for all covariates, we observed that a 10-unit higher PDI score was associated with 0.80 years lower PhenoAgeAccel (β: -0.80, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.94, -0.67), and 1.91 years lower BioAgeAccel (β: -1.91, 95% CI: -2.42,-1.40). A 10-unit higher hPDI score was associated with 0.83 years lower PhenoAgeAccel (β: -0.83, 95% CI: -0.96, -0.70), and 1.76 years lower BioAgeAccel (β: -1.76, 95% CI: -2.18, -1.34). Conversely, a 10-unit higher uPDI score was associated with 0.77 years higher PhenoAgeAccel (β: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.66, 0.89) and 1.21 years higher BioAgeAccel (β: 1.21, 95% CI: 0.80, 1.62). These findings suggest that US adults may be able to slow the aging process by increasing adherence to a healthy plant-based diet. Plant-based diets are thought to be beneficial to bring a variety of health outcomes. While evidence of the effects of plant-based diets on the rate of aging is limited. The analysis included 22,363 participants, and information was obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database. We found that overall plant-based diet index (PDI) and healthy PDI scores were significantly associated with slower progression of phenotypic age (PA) and biological age (BA), whereas unhealthy PDI seemed to accelerate the progression of PA and BA. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to explore the impact of Internet use on the mental health of older adults and its pathway mechanisms and to provide a theoretical basis and practical guidance for improving the mental health of older adults and better realizing active aging. Using cross-sectional data from the 2020 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey, 6722 older adults over 60 were finally included. We conducted descriptive and correlation analyses of the data; we analyzed the correlation of Internet use on the depression level and cognitive ability of older adults using seemingly unrelated regression; we further explored the mediating role of socialization frequency in the relationship between Internet use and the depression level and cognitive ability of older adults and its differences through mediation analysis. The results showed that the mean age of older adults in this study was (68.52 ± 5.97), the mean Internet use score was (1.12 ± 1.63), the mean depression score was (8.44 ± 6.31), and the mean cognitive score was (12.17 ± 3.27). Internet use had a positive impact on the mental health of older adults, including lowering depression (β = −0.275, P < 0.05) and improving cognition (β = 0.300, P < 0.05). Socialization frequency mediated the relationship between Internet use and depression/cognitive ability (95 % CI = −0.034 to −0.008, 95 % CI = 0.007–0.022). Therefore, it is essential to encourage older adults to use the Internet, actively integrate into the digital society, promote wise aging, share the fruits of technological development, and utilize the Internet to maintain the mental health of older adults. • Internet use can promote mental health in older adults. • Internet use reduces depression and improves cognition. • Internet use has a more substantial effect on cognition than depression. • Socialization frequency plays a mediating role. • Socialization frequency mediates more substantially between Internet use and depression levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We develop an overlapping generations model to explore the role of grandparents in grandchildren's education and its impact on human capital growth. We examine the quantity–quality (Q–Q) trade-off faced by parents in choosing the number and education of children, incorporating an active role for grandparents. Findings underscore the significance of the elderly in human capital accumulation, fertility, and economic growth. When grandparents invest more time, resources are freed, fostering greater human capital growth and mitigating the effects of the Q–Q trade-off. • Overlapping generations models can model active aging. • The trade-off between quantity and quality of children is a crucial topic in human fertility theories. • Active aging can influence the educational process. • Grandparents can play a fundamental role in educating their grandchildren. • Grandchildren with a higher level of education imply a higher human capital and foster economic growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calorie restriction (CR) is a robust intervention that can slow biological aging and extend lifespan. In the brain, terminally differentiated neurons and glia accumulate oxidative damage with age, reducing their optimal function. We investigated if CR could reduce oxidative DNA damage to white matter oligodendrocytes and microglia. This study utilized post-mortem brain tissue from rhesus monkeys that died after decades on a 30 % reduced calorie diet. We found that CR subjects had significantly fewer cells with oxidative damage within the corpus callosum and the cingulum bundle. Oligodendrocytes specifically showed the greatest response to CR with a robust reduction in DNA damage. Additionally, we observed alterations in microglia morphology with CR subjects having a higher proportion of ramified, homeostatic microglia and fewer pro-inflammatory, hypertrophic microglia relative to controls. Furthermore, we determined that the observed attenuation in damaged DNA occurs primarily within mitochondria. Overall, these data suggest that long-term CR can reduce oxidative DNA damage and offer a neuroprotective effect in a cell-type-specific manner in the aging monkey brain. • Long-term CR in aging monkeys reduces oxidative DNA damage in oligodendrocytes. • DNA damage in oligodendrocytes of aging monkeys is primarily within mitochondria. • Long-term CR does not alter baseline DNA damage in microglia. • Long-term CR promotes ramified microglia and reduces hypertrophic / ameboid phenotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the trends of healthy aging and investigate its determinants in the middle-aged population. This was a longitudinal study. The sample comprised 3043 participants aged 45–59 years from the China Longitudinal Study of Health and Retirement 2011–2018. We plotted the prevalence across four waves and used ordered logistic models to investigate the determinants of cumulative times of healthy aging. We enrolled 3043 middle-aged people in our study. The prevalence of healthy aging is 28.2% at baseline but subsequently decreased to 19.72% at wave 4. Active socializing consistently ranked the lowest among the five dimensions. Participants with older age (odds ratio [OR] = 0.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.94–0.97), low monthly income (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69–0.97) or lived in urban (OR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.70–0.94) were less likely to have per time increase in healthy aging. Participants with more than primary school degree (OR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.31–2.46), high life satisfaction (OR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.86–3.06), and good self-report health (OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.66–2.34) were more likely to have healthy aging. The number of middle-aged individuals in China who achieved healthy aging is declining and eventually less than one in five, which was far from ideal. Particular attention should be paid to older, women, urban dwellers, individuals with low income, low life satisfaction or poor self-report health. It is urgent to develop public health policies to improve the health and well-being of the middle-aged population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overweight and obesity (OWOB) starts in childhood, influences adult cardiovascular risk, and is not equally distributed across ethnic groups. It is unclear which effects can be expected from reductions in OWOB across the life course on inequalities in cardio-metabolic diseases in a multi-ethnic population. This study aims to estimate the effects of three scenarios of changes in OWOB (the Normal-Weight-for-All scenario, the No-Ethnic-Difference-over-the-Life-Course scenario, the and No-Ethnic-Differences-in-Childhood scenario). A simulation study. We combine data from multiple data sources and use the Dynamic Modeling for Health Impact Assessment (DYNAMO-HIA) model to estimate the effects of three scenarios on the cumulative incidence of diabetes mellitus, ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and stroke between 18 and 70 years in the five largest ethnic groups in the Netherlands. In the scenario where all individuals have normal weight, the cumulative incidence decreased in all ethnic minority groups for all diseases, with largest decreases among South-Asian Surinamese, where the reduction of diabetes incidence exceeded 50%. In the scenario where the prevalence of OWOB in each ethnic-minority group was reduced to the current level among the Dutch-origin population, ethnic inequalities in cardio-metabolic diseases were substantially reduced, particularly when lowered prevalence of OWOB persisted across the lifespan. Reductions were the largest for diabetes and for the Asian Surinamese population. A substantial part of the well-known ethnic inequalities in incidence of diabetes, IHD, and stroke can be attributed to OWOB. Interventions aimed at reducing OWOB have clear potential to reduce the health inequalities in these outcomes, especially for diabetes, in particular when they have an impact across the lifespan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current studies indicate that pathological modifications of tau are associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, synaptic failure, and cognitive decline in neurological disorders and aging. We previously showed that caspase-3 cleaved tau, a relevant tau form in Alzheimer's disease (AD), affects mitochondrial bioenergetics, dynamics and synaptic plasticity by the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). Also, genetic ablation of tau promotes mitochondrial function boost and increased cognitive capacities in aging mice. However, the mechanisms and relevance of these alterations for the cognitive and mitochondrial abnormalities during aging, which is the primary risk factor for AD, has not been explored. Therefore, in this study we used aging C57BL/6 mice (2–15 and 28-month-old) to evaluate hippocampus-dependent cognitive performance and mitochondrial function. Behavioral tests revealed that aged mice (15 and 28-month-old) showed a reduced cognitive performance compared to young mice (2 month). Concomitantly, isolated hippocampal mitochondria of aged mice showed a significant decrease in bioenergetic-related functions including increases in reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial depolarization, ATP decreases, and calcium handling defects. Importantly, full-length and caspase-3 cleaved tau were preferentially present in mitochondrial fractions of 15 and 28-month-old mice. Also, aged mice (15 and 28-month-old) showed an increase in cyclophilin D (CypD), the principal regulator of mPTP opening, and a decrease in Opa-1 mitochondrial localization, indicating a possible defect in mitochondrial dynamics. Importantly, we corroborated these findings in immortalized cortical neurons expressing mitochondrial targeted full-length (GFP-T4-OMP25) and caspase-3 cleaved tau (GFP-T4C3-OMP25) which resulted in increased ROS levels and mitochondrial fragmentation, along with a decrease in Opa-1 protein expression. These results suggest that tau associates with mitochondria and this binding increases during aging. This connection may contribute to defects in mitochondrial bioenergetics and dynamics which later may conduce to cognitive decline present during aging. [Display omitted] • Toxic forms of tau are associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and cognitive decline during aging. • Hippocampal mitochondria of aged mice showed a significant decrease in bioenergetic-related functions. • Full-length and caspase-3 cleaved tau were bind to mitochondrial fractions in aging mice. • Mitochondria/tau association contributes to the defects in bioenergetics and cognitive decline during aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To establish the impact of a 3-minute computerized cognitive training program (START) on cognition in older adults with and without genetic risk of Alzheimer's disease. Two-arm randomized controlled trial of the START program. Remote online trial in adults older than 50 taking part from home. The trial compared the START program with placebo in 6544 people older than 50. Primary outcome was executive function measured through Trailmaking B, with other secondary cognitive measures. Genetic risk profile and ApoE4 status were determined by Illumina Array. START conferred benefit to executive function, attention, memory, and a composite measure, including in people with the ApoE4 genotype. The 3-minute START task offers a means of supporting cognitive health in older adults and could be used at scale and within a precision medicine approach to reduce risk of cognitive decline in a targeted way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is crucial to assess the usability of digital health applications to promote physical exercise since problems with usability could lead to errors in utilization, which may result in accidents such as falls. Heuristic evaluation has been applied in different areas, including applications to promote healthy and active aging. The objective of this study was to evaluate the usability of the two user interfaces (i.e., the practitioner interface and the participant interface) of a web-based application to deliver a home-based personalized physical exercise program for older adults using the heuristic evaluation method. The Heuristic Evaluation System Checklist (HESC) was used, and three evaluators analysed both user interfaces. The results indicate that there were minor usability issues in both interfaces, and that the web-based application presents good usability. Out of the 292 checklist sub-heuristics of the HESC Checklist, 183 in the practitioner interface were compliant, ten were not compliant, and 99 were not applicable. Similarly, 172 sub-heuristics in the participant interface were compliant, eight were not compliant, and 112 were not applicable. The study highlighted that heuristic evaluation generates a considerable amount of objective information, providing an exhaustive identification of aspects that require improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to utilize data-driven machine learning methods to identify and predict potential physical and cognitive function trajectory groups of older adults and determine their crucial factors for promoting active ageing in China. Longitudinal data on 3026 older adults from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity and Happy Family Survey was used to identify potential physical and cognitive function trajectory groups using a group-based multi-trajectory model (GBMTM). Predictors were selected from sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and physical and mental conditions. The trajectory groups were predicted using data-driven machine learning models and dynamic nomogram. Model performance was evaluated by area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC), area under the precision-recall curve (PRAUC), and confusion matrix. Two physical and cognitive function trajectory groups were determined, including a trajectory group with physical limitation and cognitive decline (14.18 %) and a normal trajectory group (85.82 %). Logistic regression performed well in predicting trajectory groups (AUROC = 0.881, PRAUC = 0.649). Older adults with lower baseline score of activities of daily living, older age, less frequent housework, and fewer actual teeth were more likely to experience physical limitation and cognitive decline trajectory group. This study didn't carry out external validation. This study shows that GBMTM and machine learning models effectively identify and predict physical limitation and cognitive decline trajectory group. The identified predictors might be essential for developing targeted interventions to promote healthy ageing. • The physical limitation and cognitive decline trajectory group and the normal trajectory group were identified. • Logistic regression models effectively predicted the physical limitation and cognitive decline trajectory group. • A dynamic nomogram was developed for visualizing the probability of the trajectory group. • Lower ADL score, older age, infrequent housework, and fewer actual teeth were risk factors of abnormal trajectory group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the association between components of physical activity and spatiotemporal gait parameters in community-dwelling older adults. Cross-sectional study with 134 independent community-dwelling older adults. A questionnaire was applied to obtain information related to the components of physical activity (frequency, duration, modality, and history of physical activity in the life course) and the GAITRite System was used to quantify gait parameters. Three MANOVA models adjusted for potential confounders were conducted to identify associations between components of physical activity (predictors) and gait performance (outcome). Higher weekly frequency but not daily hours of physical activity and sports practice (tennis, boxing, football, volleyball, and tai chi) were significantly associated with better gait performance, specifically gait speed and stride length. Understanding the most effective components of physical activity to maintain functional capacity and independence in community-dwelling older adults, allowing for active aging, is essential for formulating more effective strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The development of active aging strategies are timely relevance due to the growing aging population and the need for effective strategies to promote active aging, especially in the context of dependency risk. • The global community tries to promote independence and alleviate the societal and healthcare burdens associated with aging-related health challenges. • Intervention for active aging, focusing on physical, mental, and social well-being showed effective when provided in a blended manner. • B-HAEP showcases the potential to mitigate immobility risks in older adults, highlighting its holistic approach to promoting active aging. • This manuscript offers a pioneering approach to enhancing active aging in older adults by focusing on mental, physical, and social well-being. • Advances the field by demonstrating the efficacy of the B-HAEP program and underscores its potential significance for gerontology and healthcare practices. • Findings have practical implications for improving the well-being of community-based older adults with mobility challenges. • Theoretical implications underscore the holistic approach to active aging and its relevance in aging populations globally. • Suggests avenues for future research, such as further strategies to enhance various aspects of active aging and expand the program to diverse populations. Addressing aging related functional declines in older adults has become a top priority for countries around the world. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a blended happy age education program in promoting active aging among community-based pre-disable older adults. We conducted a two-arm trial study in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups using a computer-generated random sequence of 150 participants. Blended Happy Age Education Program (BHAEP) reduced time for 3 m walk (Estimated mean 19.5 ± 3.4 to 13.7 ± 1.3, effect size ηp² = 0.98, (P < 0.001). The current level of happiness improved in B-HAEP group from 4.7 ± 1.05 scores to 7.8 ± 1.6, P < 0.001, effect size (ηp² = 0.540). Healthy lifestyle significantly improved (P < 0.001, ηp² = 0.4). B-HAEP can be an effective intervention strategy to promote active aging in older adults with risk for immobility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sleep is associated with physical activity (PA), yet the nature and directions of this association are less understood. This study aimed to disentangle the long-term temporal sequences between sleep duration/disturbance and PA in older adults, distinguishing between- and within-person effects. Longitudinal panel study. We conducted a longitudinal study using 3 waves of data collected in 2008/09 (T1), 2012/13 (T2), and 2016/17(T3) from adults aged ≥50 years in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (N = 10,749 individuals). Sleep duration, sleep disturbance, and PA were assessed by self-reported questionnaires. We used cross-lagged panel models (CLPMs) to examine between-person effects and random intercept cross-lagged panel models (RI-CLPMs) to examine within-person effects. Our analyses revealed a reciprocal relationship between abnormal sleep duration and low PA levels at between-person level (abnormal sleep duration to PA: β T1-T2 = −0.053, β T2-T3 = −0.058, all P <.001; PA to abnormal sleep duration: β T1-T2 = −0.040, β T2-T3 = −0.045, all P <.05), with abnormal sleep duration being the driving force in the dynamic association. In addition, there was a unidirectional effect of more severe sleep disturbance on lower levels of PA at both between- and within-person levels (between-person level: β T1-T2 = −0.032, β T2-T3 = −0.028, all P <.001; within-person level: β T1-T2 and T2-T3 = −0.031, all P =.011). This study adds novel insights into the temporal directionality of sleep and PA among community-dwelling older adults and highlights poor sleep as a potential risk factor for PA. Intervention strategies should aim to improve sleep to promote PA levels and successful aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Old adults do not satisfy the acceptance of social support. • Two-way social support for old adults in China is above-average. • Receiving and giving social support differ in some influencing factors. This study aims to investigate the status and influencing factors of two-way social support among old adults. A cross-sectional study of 408 convenient samples of old adults was conducted using socio-demographic questionnaire, Brief 2-Way Social Support Scale, Modified Barthel index, General Well-being Schedule, Family APGAR Index, and Lubben Social Network Scale 6. The two-way social support score for old adults in China was (43.74±7.86), with the receiving and giving social support scoring (22.80±4.06) and (20.94±4.52), respectively. The multiple linear regression analysis revealed that family care, residence place, socioeconomic status, and social network were associated with both receiving and giving social support. Chronic diseases and religious beliefs were related to receiving social support, while gender, general well-being, and residence form were related to giving social support. Tailored interventions based on the distinct influencing factors are needed to enhance old adults' social support both as recipients and providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development and production of cell gene and tissue (CGT)-based therapies requires a specialized workforce. Entering the CGT arena is complex because it involves different scientific and biomedical aspects (e.g., immunology, stem cell biology and transplantation), as well as knowledge of regulatory affairs and compliance with pharmaceutical quality standards. Currently, both industry and academia are facing a worldwide workforce shortage, whereas only a handful of educational and training initiatives specifically address the peculiarities of CGT product development, the procurement of substances of human origin, the manufacturing process itself and clinical monitoring and biovigilance. The training offered by traditional Master's and PhD programs is not suited for training a skilled workforce ready to enter the increasingly fast-growing CGT field. Indeed, typically these programs are of long duration and only partially cover the required competencies, whereas the demand for a specialized workforce relentlessly increases. In this paper, we (i) present and discuss our understanding of the roots of current growth acceleration of the CGT field; (ii) anticipate future workforce needs due to the expected increase of marketed CGT-based therapies and (iii) evaluate potential solutions that seek to adapt, develop and implement current educational and training initiatives. Importantly for these solutions, we call for scientific societies, such as the International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy, to play a more active role and act as catalysers for new initiatives, building bridges between academia and Industry to establish effective educational and training programs that will engage and prepare a new generation of qualified professionals for entry into the CGT field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dementia is a major healthcare challenge; however, there is evidence that modifiable risk factors may contribute to reduce dementia risk. The aim of the study was to explore the knowledge and motivation for adopting recommended health behaviours among older adults in Norway. The study has a qualitative, descriptive design. Individual interviews were used for data collection. The study population comprised 15 participants, five men and 10 women, aged ≥73 years, recruited from a region in the centre of Norway. Interviews were analysed according to qualitative content analysis. Three categories were identified and presented as the main findings, as follows: (1) sufficient knowledge about risk reduction for dementia, including the media as the main source of information; (2) current prevention activities and motivation for risk reduction, including physical, social and cognitive activities and a healthy diet; and (3) motivation for prevention of dementia from a life-course perspective, including experience of health problems, desire to live independently and limited awareness of dementia risk factors in midlife. To tailor information about the modifiable risk factors of dementia and develop preventive interventions, knowledge about motivating factors is essential. Promotion of healthy ageing is required in addition to addressing the fear of future illness and dependency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary cilia are hair-like structures located on the surface of eukaryotic cells and regulate relevant function as photoreception, chemosensing, mechanosensing, and neuromodulation. Mutations in genes encoding ciliary proteins cause ciliopathies, with clinical manifestations that include nephropathy, cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurodevelopmental abnormalities. Primary cilia dysfunction has been associated with several hallmarks of aging, dysregulated inflammatory responses in peripheral tissues and in the brain, DNA damage response, proteostasis dysfunction, cell senescence, and malfunction of interneuronal circuits. Pharmacological manipulation of primary cilia may counteract age-associated diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative, metabolic disorders and extend health lifespan. Primary cilia are specialized organelles that sense changes in extracellular milieu, and their malfunction is responsible for several disorders (ciliopathies). Increasing evidence shows that primary cilia regulate tissue and cellular aging related features, which led us to review the evidence on their role in potentiating and/or accelerating the aging process. Primary cilia malfunction is associated with some age-related disorders, from cancer to neurodegenerative and metabolic disorders. However, there is limited understanding of molecular pathways underlying primary cilia dysfunction, resulting in scarce ciliary-targeted therapies available. Here, we discuss the findings on primary cilia dysfunction as modulators of the health and aging hallmarks, and the pertinence of ciliary pharmacological targeting to promote healthy aging or treat age-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China is dealing with a serious aging issue. Social participation is essential for active aging. The health status of spouses is intertwined with the trajectory of the social function of the elderly. This study examined the association between spouse health and social participation among older Chinese adults. The study also explored the mediating role of loneliness and anxiety between spousal health and social participation. The analytic sample included 6125 adults aged 60 years and above. Prospective data were obtained from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). First, we described basic socio-demographic information about the sample. Secondly, Spearman's correlation analysis was used to determine whether correlations existed between spousal health, loneliness, anxiety, and social participation. Finally, mediation analysis was run using the SPSS macro PROCESS program. Spousal health, loneliness, anxiety, and social participation were significantly correlated (P < 0.01). Spousal health could not only have a direct positive impact on social participation in older adults (β = 0.239, 95 % CI: 0.120, 0.359), but also indirectly on social participation through three pathways: an independent mediating effect of loneliness (β = 0.020, 95 % CI: 0.009, 0.034), an independent mediating effect of anxiety (β = 0.018, 95%CI: 0.009, 0.032), and a chain mediating effect of loneliness and anxiety (β = 0.004, 95%CI: 0.002, 0.007). This study suggests paying more attention to elderly couples and decreasing the negative consequences of changes in spousal health. • The social participation of elders is linked to their spouse's health. • The effects of social participation are mediated by loneliness and anxiety. • Promote family-centred programs as a means of responding to active aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to estimate five harmonized healthy aging indicators covering functional ability and intrinsic capacity among older women and men from Brazil and England and evaluate their association with loneliness. This was a cross-sectional study. We used two nationally representative samples of men and women aged ≥60 years from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil) wave 2 (2019–2021; n = 6929) and the English Longitudinal Study of Aging wave 9 (2018–2019; n = 5902). Healthy aging included five separate indicators (getting dressed, taking medication, managing money, cognitive function, and handgrip strength). Loneliness was measured by the 3-item University of California Loneliness Scale. Logistic regression models stratified by sex and country were performed. Overall, age-adjusted healthy aging indicators were worse in Brazil compared with England for both men and women. Considering functional ability, loneliness was negatively associated with all indicators (ranging from odds ratio [OR] = 0.26, [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.13–0.52] in English men regarding the ability to take medication to OR = 0.49 [95% CI 0.27–0.89] in Brazilian women regarding the ability to manage money). Considering intrinsic capacity, loneliness was negatively associated with a higher cognitive function (OR = 0.72; 95% CI 0.55–0.95 in English women) and a higher handgrip strength (OR = 0.61; 95% CI 0.45–0.83 in Brazilian women). Lonely women demonstrated lower odds of a higher number of healthy aging indicators than men in both countries. Country-specific social environments should be targeted by public policies to decrease loneliness and promote healthy aging later in life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Lower intrinsic capacity (IC) scores were prospectively associated with higher glycemia. • Among IC domains, only vitality was associated with all glycemia indicators. • Enhancing muscle strength to improve functional ability may be a possible intervention to reduce risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in older populations. The World Health Organization introduced intrinsic capacity (IC) as a metric for healthy aging. However, we found no report on the association between IC and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We investigated the association between IC and incident T2DM in older Chinese from the Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study. IC was assessed across five domains equally: locomotion, vitality, cognition, psychological and sensory. Composite IC scores (0–10) were classified into three groups: poor (0–5.9), fair (6.0–8.9), and high (9.0–10), with higher scores representing greater IC. Multivariable linear regression and cox regression was used to analyze the association between IC with glycemia and T2DM, respectively. Of 3582 participants with a mean age of 59.1 years (standard deviation (SD)=7.13) without baseline diabetes, during an average follow-up of 3.3 years (SD=0.86), 497 (13.87%) developed T2DM. After adjustments for potential confounders, those with baseline poor IC, versus high, had higher fasting glucose, 2-hour post-load glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin A 1c at follow-up, and a higher risk of incident T2DM (HR (95%CI): 1.80 (1.20, 2.72)). Among IC domains, only vitality impairment was associated with an increased risk of T2DM (P for trend < 0.001). We first reported the prospective associations of poor IC and vitality with higher glycemia and incident T2DM risk. Enhancing muscle strength to improve functional ability may be a possible intervention for reducing future risk of T2DM in older populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Five patterns of change in leisure activity participation and three heterogeneous trajectories of leisure activities were identified. • Persistently medium, rising, and persistently high leisure activities reduced the risk of cognitive frailty. • Even a decline in leisure activities below specific threshold can still protect against cognitive frailty, especially in the short and long terms. To examine changes in leisure activity participation and their associations with cognitive frailty among older adults. The study utilized data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey covering 2008–2018. Three distinct intervals represented short-term (2008–2011), medium-term (2008–2014) and long-term (2008–2018) changes in leisure activity participation, and the change patterns of levels of leisure activities based on the tertile were described. Restricted cubic splines (RCS) were used to determine the inflection point of the absolute value of leisure activity participation over two time points. Group-based trajectory modeling identified trajectories of leisure activity participation among participants from 2008 to 2018. Logistic regression analysis examined how changes in leisure activity participation impacted cognitive frailty. Five patterns of change in leisure activity participation were identified, including the persistently low group, the declining (medium-low, high-low, high-medium) group, persistently medium, rising (low-medium, low-high, medium-high), and persistently high levels of activity. A lower risk of cognitive frailty was found among three groups of persistently medium, rising, and persistently high levels of activity across three distinct intervals and among the declining group over the short-term and long-term intervals but not in the medium-term interval than among the persistently low group, respectively. RCS analysis showed that the inflection point of the association between absolute changes in leisure activity and cognitive frailty was -2.11 (short-term), -0.9 (medium-term), and -3.94 (long-term). Leisure activity trajectories were categorized into persistently low, persistently moderate, and persistently high groups, and both the persistently moderate and persistently high groups exhibited a lower risk of cognitive frailty compared to the persistently low group. Persistently moderate to high levels and increasing levels of leisure activities can reduce the risk of cognitive frailty in the short, medium, and long term, and even the declining in leisure activity participation less than the threshold could protect against cognitive frailty, particularly in the short and long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mg-Al-Sn series alloys have emerged as the compelling candidates for the anodes in Mg-air battery systems, attributed to their excellent discharge and corrosion performance. However, the pivotal role of Mg 2 Sn phase with various morphologies in these anodes has persisted underexplored. Herein, we meticulously engineer the Mg 2 Sn morphology by adopting solution-aging treatment, and systematically examine its effect on the discharge and corrosion behavior of Mg-Al-Sn anodes. The research demonstrates that the large-sized Mg 2 Sn phase and Sn-enriched dendrites in as-cast sample compromise corrosion resistance and hinder the detachment of oxidation products during discharge, thus adversely influencing anode performance. Conversely, the dissolution of Mg 2 Sn and dendrites, induced by solution treatment, markedly suppresses self-corrosion and improves anodic efficiencies alongside battery capacities. Moreover, the finely dispersed Mg 2 Sn phase, generated through aging, significantly accelerates the shedding of oxidation products during discharge, thereby enhancing the voltages of Mg-air battery. The detailed mechanism concerning the morphological impact of Mg 2 Sn phase is further revealed from the perspectives of micro-galvanic effect and the analysis of corroded surfaces. • The morphology of Mg 2 Sn in Mg-Al-Sn anode is tailored via solution-aging treatment. • The large-sized Mg 2 Sn phase and dendrites in as-cast alloy accelerate self-corrosion. • The devoid of Mg 2 Sn and dendrites caused by solid solution alleviates self-corrosion. • The finely dispersed Mg 2 Sn particles produced by aging promotes active dissolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar has been widely recognized as an effective method for carbon fixation and sequestration by biomass thermal conversion. Large amounts of biochar entered soil, sediment, and water environment, but its long-term stability remains controversial. Herein, the impact of active manganese oxide minerals on biochar aging and decomposition was investigated. It was found that δ-MnO 2 mineral showed a significant influence on the stability of corn stalk biochar. The δ-MnO 2 would adsorbed on biochar surfaces due to the opposite charges, resulting in accelerated aging of the biochar. The aging process of biochar induced by δ-MnO 2 would begin with the oxidation of biochar surface functional groups and followed by the particle division and organic matters releasing. δ-MnO 2 itself was reduced by biochar, then recovered by molecular oxygen and thus continuously aging biochar in cycles. Under ambient pH conditions (5.0–8.0), high pH favored biochar aging, but the aging process became slow at low pH. This study revealed an environmental process of accelerating aging of biochar via active manganese minerals, which might usually be neglected for a long time. Therefore, it is important to reveal the interaction between biochar and active minerals in the environment and understand the effect of active minerals on aging process and stability of biochar. [Display omitted] • Biochar can be continuously oxidized by δ-MnO 2 under oxic conditions. • Biochar oxidation rate favors high pH (∼ 8.0) rather than low pH (∼5.0). • δ-MnO 2 is reduced by biochar then re-oxidized by O 2 for biochar aging cycles. • Biochar shows oxygen group increasing and DOM releasing in aging process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Iridium developer with high-brightness AIE is created. • High-contrast LFP luminous imaging to level 3 details is achieved. • Exceptional aging resistance and repeatability are demonstrated by LFPs. • Imaging mechanism of LFPs driven by vdWs force is confirmed. Luminous imaging of latent fingerprints (LFPs) necessitates the possession of high-brightness aggregation-state luminescence by developers to ensure sufficient imaging contrast and resolution. A novel strategy involving incremental rotor modification is presented for AIE activation of the iridium developer. The rotor proliferation prominently improves the rotational activity of groups and facilitates high-efficiency RIM, thereby prompting the AIE activation of iridium developer with high luminous efficiency. Subsequently, a prompt, high-contrast, and robust LFP imaging protocol is developed utilizing the high-brightness AIE-active iridium developer. This innovative protocol realizes the luminous imaging and quantification of microscopic features in fingerprint ridges and furrows, including ridge widths, edge morphology of ridges, included angles, pores, and pore pitches with exceptional imaging contrast and refined detail resolution. Moreover, it allows for accurate identification of individual traits across diverse substrates without any pre-/post-processing to LFPs. The high-brightness AIE-active iridium developer provides outstanding aging resistance to developed fingerprints, thereby strongly supporting the acquisition, transfer, and preservation of fingerprint evidence. The luminous imaging protocol of LFPs based on high-brightness AIE exhibits robust adaptability to actual scenes and offers a premium scheme for facilitating forensic investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preclinical data have repeatedly shown learning and memory disruption following administration of the bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Normal aging is reported to enhance vulnerability to LPS-induced cognitive impairments. However, a limitation is the primary use of male subjects. Recent evidence indicates sex-related differences in vulnerability to LPS-induced cognitive deficits [1,2] , with young females showing resilience. Whether middle-aged females are susceptible to LPS-induced cognitive impairment is unknown. The current experiment compared associative learning in young and middle-aged male and female C57BL/6J mice following a systemic LPS challenge. While LPS impaired acquisition of the two-way active avoidance conditioning task in adult and middle-aged males, females' learning was unaffected. The sex difference in LPS-induced cognitive impairments appears unrelated to responsivity to LPS, as males and females mount a comparable sickness-like response. Additionally, relative to males, females produce higher brain levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and comparable splenic IL-6 levels following LPS. These data demonstrate that female resilience to LPS-induced learning deficits persists into middle age, whereas males are vulnerable as both young and middle-aged adults. Our findings confirm the importance of considering sex as a biological variable and extend the existing literature by evaluating sex-related responsivity to LPS in middle-aged males and females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Global prevalence of successful aging (SA) is 24.0 % among older adults. • Higher SA seen in males, aged 60–70, married/cohabiting, urban, and educated. • Developing countries show higher SA rates (27.1 %) vs. developed countries (16.8 %). • Findings support targeted health promotion and intervention strategies. • Future research should explore SA factors and less-studied regions. Successful aging (SA) describes the multidimensional aspects of achieving optimal physical and mental health and social well-being combinations in old age. Recent years have seen increasing interest in understanding SA prevalence. This study systematically evaluates the current state of SA globally, defined as multidimensional outcomes. To systematically evaluate the global prevalence of SA in older adults. We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China Biomedical Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, and Weipu Database from inception to February 14, 2024. Two researchers independently conducted literature screening, data extraction, and quality evaluation. Meta-analysis was performed using Stata 16.0. Thirty studies comprising 250,460 older adults were included. Meta-analysis showed the overall global prevalence of SA was 24.0 % [95 % CI (20.7 %, 27.3 %)]. Prevalence rates were 25.1 % in Asia, 21.5 % in Europe, 20.6 % in the Americas; 16.8 % in developed and 27.1 % in developing countries. Subgroup analyses indicated higher SA rates among male older adults, married/cohabiting, living in urban areas, and having higher education levels. The global prevalence of SA among older adults is low, with variations across age groups, regions, and education levels. Due to the limitations of the included studies, further high-quality research is needed to validate these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular senescence, the irreversible arrest of cell division, is a hallmark of aging and a key contributor to age-related disorders. Targeting senescent cells represents a promising therapeutic approach to combat these ailments. This review explores the potential of Garcinia species, a genus rich in flavonoids with established antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as a source of natural anti-senescence agents. We investigate the intricate connections between aging, cellular senescence, and oxidative stress, highlighting the detrimental effects of free radicals on cellular health. Furthermore, we analyze the diverse array of flavonoids identified within Garcinia and their established cellular mechanisms. We critically evaluate the emerging evidence for the anti-senescence potential of flavonoids in general and the limited research on Garcinia flavonoids in this context. By identifying existing knowledge gaps and paving the way for future research, this review underscores the exciting potential of Garcinia flavonoids as natural anti-senescence agents. These agents hold promise for not only promoting healthy aging but also for the development of cosmeceutical products that combat the visible signs of aging. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to explore the relationship between the frequency of volunteering and biological aging, as measured by epigenetic age acceleration. It also investigates whether this relationship differs between retired and working older adults. Understanding this connection could inform interventions promoting healthy aging and reducing age-related chronic health conditions. Data were derived from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), including pre-treatment covariates (2012), volunteer frequency and work status (2014), and five DNA methylation measures (2016) (N = 2,605). Generalized linear models were estimated to examine the relationship between volunteering and epigenetic age acceleration, stratified by retirement status. The analyses adjusted for relevant covariates and utilized energy balancing weights to account for selection into volunteering. Findings show that volunteering, especially for 1–49 h per year and 200+ hours per year, was linked to less epigenetic age acceleration, with significant effects on DNA methylation measures PhenoAge, GrimAge, and DunedinPACE clocks. Among retired individuals, moderate volunteering was significantly associated with decelerated epigenetic age acceleration, indicating greater benefits for retirees compared to working individuals. The study found that frequent volunteering may lead to decelerated epigenetic aging, potentially offering a public health intervention to enhance health and quality of life among older adults. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and to understand how volunteering might differentially impact retired and working individuals. Such insights could guide the development of targeted strategies to promote healthy aging and address age-related health disparities. • Volunteering and biological aging were stronger for 2nd and 3rd generation clocks. • These clocks related to mortality, immune function, and organ integrity. • The relationships were stronger for retired individuals. • Findings suggest a link between prosocial activities and biological aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between tooth loss, removable denture usage, and the progression of the Frailty Index, considering the Frailty Index as a time-variant variable. • Tooth loss is associated with a more rapid progression of frailty over time amongst adults in England. • Professionals should consider that maintaining teeth may be effective for suppressing frailty progression. The objective of the present study was to investigate the relationship between indicators of oral health status (number of teeth; denture use) and the progression of frailty amongst adults in England. The subjects were participants of the English Longitudinal Study of Aging [ELSA] aged 50 years and older. We used panel data from three waves of the study (Waves 7–9). Indicators of oral health comprised the number of teeth (≥20; 10–19; 1–9; 0) and combination of removable denture usage and the number of teeth. Frailty was assessed by the 32-item Frailty Index (FI). Covariates were age, sex, education, marital status, smoking, alcohol, and physical activity. The longitudinal relationship between oral health indicators and change in FI were investigated using linear mixed-effect models considering frailty as a time-varying variable. Among the 7,557 participants, compared to those people with 20 or more teeth, change in frailty over time was significantly higher among those with less than 20 teeth: 10–19 teeth (β: 0.249, 95 %CI: 0.116 to 0.382), and 1–9 teeth (β: 0.238, 95 %CI: 0.053 to 0.423) and being edentate (β: 0.286, 95 %CI: 0.106 to 0.465) when adjusting for co-variates. The rise in frailty over time was significantly higher among those with fewer teeth (<20 teeth), including those using dentures. This longitudinal analysis suggests that tooth loss is associated with accelerated progression of frailty and utilizing dentures did not reduce the trend in frailty. Thus, maintaining a functional natural dentition is important in healthy ageing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An O -acetyl mannoglucan (BHP-1) from Lanzhou lily bulbs was structurally elucidated using partial acid hydrolysis, GC–MS, and 2D NMR techniques (COSY, NOESY, HSQC and HMBC) built on prior research, revealing a backbone of - α -D-(1 → 4)-Glc p - β -D-(1 → 4)-Man p - with the most potential side chains - α -D-(1 → 4)-Glc p-β -D-(1 → 4)-Man p-α -D-(1 → 4)-Glc p - α -D-(1 → Glc p - and - α -D-(1 → 4)-Glc p - β -D-(1 → 4)-Man p-α- D-(1 → Glc p -, attached to O -2 and O -3 of glucose and mannose residues, and featuring O -acetyl groups at O -2 or O -3 position of mannose. The terminal residue was α -D-(1 → Glc p. BHP-1 demonstrated anti-aging and hypoglycemic effects, as assessed by C. elegans model and glycolytic enzyme effect in vitro, respectively. The results showed that BHP-1 dose-dependently prolonged lifespan of C. elegans by 33 % at 4 mg/mL under normal conditions, with greater extensions under thermal and oxidative stress (50 % and 80 % increases, respectively, p < 0.05), which were attributed to enhanced antioxidant enzymes (SOD and CAT) and lowered MDA levels of C. elegans. Additionally, BHP-1 exhibited remarkable inhibition on α -glucosidase (93 %) and moderate inhibition on α -amylase (53 %) at 4 mg/mL, with competitive inhibition of α -glucosidase and mixed non-competitive inhibition of α -amylase, respectively. These potential effects might be linked to BHP-1's diverse sugar linkages, higher content of Glc, and certain O -acetyl contents. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Subsidence parameters have statistically significant correlation with spreading rate. • SW Indian and Central Pacific oceans are the end-members in global subsidence trends. • Slow spreading produces narrow oceans with old seafloor age and passive margins. • Fast spreading produces wide oceans with young seafloor age and active margins. • The distribution of hotpots in oceans may be controlled by spreading rate. Ocean age-dependent cooling subsidence with seafloor deepening is traditionally described by models of thermo-chemical buoyancy of oceanic plates with globally constant parameters, that specify a linear correlation between square-root of seafloor age, sqrt(age), and bathymetry. Here I present a worldwide analysis of the ocean floor split into 94 segments, delineated by wide-offset transform faults and mid-ocean ridges, to demonstrate a strong heterogeneity of sediment-corrected isostatic cooling subsidence both between and within normal oceans. Anomalous oceans are identified from bathymetry deviation from age-dependent predictions during data processing. Subsidence parameters for individual ocean segments significantly deviate from global constants in conventional models and show a large variability of subsidence rate (270–535 m/Ma1/2) and zero-age depth (−1.30 to −3.03 km) with plate thickness estimated between 50 and 160 km for cooling models with constant mantle properties. Statistically strong correlations (R2=0.80–0.94) between major characteristics of cooling subsidence and spreading rate indicate that ocean evolution is essentially controlled by spreading rate, despite this factor is not included in conventional models of ocean subsidence. Normal oceans with slower spreading rate have, statistically, higher subsidence rate which implies faster gravitational collapse caused by faster plate cooling with moderate-to-low mantle temperatures at mid-ocean ridges. Fast-spreading oceans have the opposite characteristics. The ultraslow SW Indian and the fast-spreading Central Pacific Oceans are the end-members in ocean cooling subsidence trends, with the Atlantic/NW Indian Oceans tending towards the ultraslow end, and the Pacific/SE Indian Oceans being closer to the fast-spreading end. The Arctic Ocean and the Atlantics north of the Charlie-Gibbs Fracture Zone with an atypical subsidence behavior often deviate from the global trends. Strong correlation between spreading rate, ocean half-width and the type of ocean margins implies that ridge-push dominates tectonic forces in slower-spreading, narrower oceans with passive margins, while slab-pull at active margins is a dominant tectonic force in faster-spreading oceans with half-width exceeding 4250 km. The age of bathymetry departure from cooling subsidence, controlled by distribution of hotspots on ocean floor, correlates (R2=0.76) with spreading rate, and thus is not fully random. Slower-spreading oceans follow normal cooling subsidence to older ages (7.5–9.5 Ma1/2) than faster-spreading oceans (5–7 Ma1/2). Recognition that spreading rate controls ocean evolution with formation of active or passive ocean margins dominated by slab-pull or ridge-push contributes to advances in understanding driving forces in geodynamics. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is an important indicator to reflect the independence and well-being of older adults in their later life. Improving the HRQoL of older adults is of great importance for achieving healthy aging. The internet provides extensive health information and being able to effectively use the electronic health (eHealth) resources (reflected as "eHealth literacy") potentially empowers older adults to manage health and improve HRQoL. However, there is limited evidence about the relationship between eHealth literacy and HRQoL in this population. This study aims to examine the longitudinal association and temporal relationship between eHealth literacy and HRQoL among older adults, and to explore potential underlying mechanisms. A 3-wave longitudinal study. Chinese older adults aged 55 or older in Jiangxi Province, China. Data were collected at baseline (T1) and 3-month (T2) and 6-month (T3) follow-ups during February to December 2022, using online self-reported questionnaires. eHealth literacy, HRQoL, and general self-efficacy were measured using validated tools. Statistical analyses, including longitudinal Tobit regression, cross-lagged panel model (CLPM), and longitudinal mediation analysis were performed. A total of 611 participants were included at T1, and 464 (75.9%) completed both 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Longitudinal Tobit regression suggested that older individuals with higher eHealth literacy showed better HRQoL over time (adjusted β, 0.023; 95% CI, 0.011–0.035; P <.001), after accounting for covariates. The CLPM supported that higher eHealth literacy significantly predicts improved HRQoL over time (standardized β, 0.09, P =.008), but not the reverse. In addition, general self-efficacy at T2 fully mediated the relationship from eHealth literacy at T1 and HRQoL at T3, with mediated proportion of 28.3%. This study highlighted the importance of eHealth literacy and self-efficacy in improving HRQoL among older adults, supporting the development of tailored interventions to promote their HRQoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate inequalities in transitions to home care across a broad set of demographic and socioeconomic factors in Canadian middle-aged and older adults. Longitudinal, retrospective cohort study. A total of 51,338 community-dwelling adults aged 45+ years, using national data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging across 3 timepoints from 2011 to 2021. We analyzed transitions in home care use using multistate Markov models, with home care use and nonuse as transient states, and loss to follow-up as a terminal state. We calculated hazard ratios for transitions between states adjusting for factors related to home care need (ie, functional limitations, chronic conditions) within the following equity strata: income, education, immigration history, sex, gender, rurality, racial background, and tangible social support. Across all timepoints, 5.4% of non–home care users transitioned to home care by the next timepoint and 33.2% of home care users continued to use home care at the next timepoint. Among non–home care users, identifying as a woman, female, white, completing higher levels of education, having higher income, and having less support available was associated with an increased likelihood of transitioning to home care use. Among home care users, higher income was also associated with a greater likelihood to discontinue using home care compared with lower income users. The association between income and home care use was stronger among female individuals. We found meaningful differences in home care transitions across several equity strata. Individuals with higher income have greater ability to access to private care, creating inequity in access to home care services. Gendered factors such as income and social support have important associations with home care use. Home care planning and policy must address the unique barriers and disadvantages diverse populations face to ensure equitable use of home care and promote healthy aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Older age is often conceptualised as a stage of life in which the future is considered to be less relevant than the past. This is reflected in literature that emphasises the importance of the past in later life but overlooks the significance of the future. This paper addresses this knowledge gap by analysing narratives that older people write about the future. We do this through secondary analysis of diary entries written by older respondents to the British Mass Observation Project in 1988, in response to a directive about time. The aim of our analysis was to develop conceptual understandings of the relationship between older age and future time. Our thematic analysis identified four main orientations that respondents had towards the future: dreading the future; time running out; taking one day at a time; thinking beyond finitude. Underpinning all of these was a reluctance to contemplate and plan for changes in physical and cognitive health and future care needs, a finding echoed in more recent research. Drawing on critical time perspectives that foreground the fluid, complex and social nature of time, we suggest that reluctance to acknowledge and plan for the future in later life reflects conceptualisations of the future as unpredictable and inseparable from past and present temporalities. This contrasts with more instrumentalist ageing discourses that imply the future can be 'managed' from the present. We conclude by calling for a greater repertoire of how we imagine and narrate the future in later life. • Historic diary entries can aid contemporary understandings of ageing. • Active ageing discourses constrain how we think about the future as we age. • There is a reluctance to plan for future care needs in older age. • Critical approaches can help to reimagine the future in older age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some recent studies on grandparenthood have pointed to a potential conflict between grandparenthood and the ideals of the third age. Retired people are increasingly expected to live up to the ideals of active aging, and many grandparents may wish to demonstrate their agency by getting engaged in various leisure activities, which may reduce their possibilities and motivation to spend time with their grandchildren. We looked at this potential conflict from the perspective of people living in the countryside, where distances to both cultural and other services, and grandchildren, may both be long. We analyzed our interviewees' discursive constructions of their grandparenthood and independent life in the third age as well as the ways in which they negotiated the moral dilemma between the two. The data consisted of 14 telephone interviews with grandparents, aged 66–85, living relatively far from population centers. All interviewees underscored the importance of grandchildren and their willingness to spend time with them, and there were few direct references to the conflict between a committed grandparenthood and a third age lifestyle. However, the interviewees did express ideas related to maintaining certain limits in their grandparenthood to secure their own private lives. A potential conflict between a committed grandparenthood and the third age lifestyle appeared in such situations when grandparents needed to make real choices about how they spend their time, which was mediated by the geographical distances between the generations. The interviewees aimed at balancing between being devoted grandparents and maintaining independence. A familist discourse emphasizing the role of the nuclear family was commonly used to justify keeping a distance between them and the middle generation and grandchildren. The interviews echoed the third age ideals mainly in terms of independence and free time rather than consumption and leisure activities, the availability of which was limited in the countryside. • Research has pointed to an emerging conflict between grandparenthood and active aging. • We studied the emergence of the conflict in interviews with rural grandparents. • The interviewees balanced between their devoted grandparenthood and independence. • Geographic distance between generations was a mediating factor in the conflict. • Future research should approach this potential conflict in urban environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to explore predictors of sustained transitions (those that are maintained for an extra follow-up) between robustness and prefrailty in both directions. Longitudinal population-based cohort. Community-dwelling Spaniards 65 years or older from the Toledo Study of Healthy Ageing. The Fried's frailty phenotype was measured over 3 waves (2006–2009, 2011–2013, and 2014–2017). Multiple logistic regressions compared individuals following the pattern robust-prefrail-prefrail with those who remained robust across waves, and those following the pattern prefrail-robust-robust with those who remained prefrail, for sociodemographic, clinical, life-habits, dependency for activities of daily living, upper and lower extremities' strength variables. The Fried's items of those who remained prefrail and those who became robust were compared. Mean age was 72.3 years (95% CI: 71.8–72.8) and 57.9% (52.7%–63.0%) were women. After multivariate adjustment, predictors (apart from age) of the sustained transition robustness-prefrailty were as follows: number of drugs taken (odds ratio: 1.37; 95% CI: 1.14–1.65), not declaring the amount of alcohol consumed (8.32; 1.78–38.88), and grip strength (0.92 per kg; 0.86–0.99). Predictors of the sustained transition prefrailty-robustness were as follows: drinking alcohol (0.2; 0.05–0.83), uricemia (0.67; 0.49–0.93), number of chair stands in 30 seconds (1.14; 1.01–1.28), and grip strength (1.12; 1.05–1.2). Low grip strength was associated with a lower probability of regaining robustness. Prediction of sustained transitions between the first stages of frailty development can be achieved with a reduced number of variables and noting whether the Fried's item leading to a diagnosis of prefrailty is low grip strength. Our results suggest the need to intensify interventions on deprescription, quitting alcohol, and strengthening of upper and lower limbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Older drivers with recent falls had more hard braking events in one-year follow-up. • Those with high fear of falling drove less and drove nearer home during follow-up. • Health, function, medications and demographics largely explained the associations. • Falls and fear of falling may serve as markers for crash risk and reduced mobility. Objective: Falls in older adults are associated with increased motor vehicle crash risk, possibly mediated by driving behavior. We examined the relationship of falls and fear of falling (FOF) with subsequent objectively measured driving habits. Methods: This multi-site, prospective cohort study enrolled 2990 active drivers aged 65–79 (53% female). At enrollment, we assessed falls in the past year and FOF (Short Falls Efficacy Scale-International). Driving outcomes included exposure, avoidance of difficult conditions, and unsafe driving during one-year follow-up, using in-vehicle Global Positioning System devices. Results: Past-year falls were associated with more hard braking events (HBE). High FOF was associated with driving fewer days, miles, and trips, driving nearer home and more HBE. Differences were attenuated and not significant after accounting for health, function, medications and sociodemographics. Discussion: Differences in objectively measured driving habits according to past-year fall history and FOF were largely accounted for by differences in health and medications. Rather than directly affecting driving, falls and FOF may serve as markers for crash risk and reduced community mobility due to age-related changes and poor health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf senescence is regulated by both endogenous hormones and environmental stimuli in a programmed and concerted way. The members of the S40 family have been reported to play roles in leaf senescence. Here we identified an S40 family member, CiS40-11, from Caragana intermedia. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the CiS40-11 protein had the highest identity with AtS40-5 (AT1G11700) and AtS40-6 (AT1G61930) of Arabidopsis thaliana. CiS40-11 was highly expressed in leaves and was down-regulated after dark treatment. The subcellular localization analysis showed that CiS40-11 was a cytoplasm-nucleus dual-localized protein. Leaf senescence was delayed in both the CiS40-11 overexpressed A. thaliana and its transiently expressed C. intermedia. Transcriptomic analysis and endogenous hormones assay revealed that CiS40-11 inhibited leaf senescence via promoting the biosynthesis of cytokinins by blocking AtMYB2 expression in the CiS40-11 overexpression lines. Furthermore, overexpression of either AtS40-5 or AtS40-6 showed similar phenotype as the CiS40-11 overexpressing lines, while in the ats40-5a or ats40-6a mutants, the AtMYB2 expression was increased and their leaves exhibited a premature senescence phenotype. These results provide a new molecular mechanism of the S40 family in leaf senescence regulation of plants. • CiS40-11 and its orthologs delay the onset of leaf senescence. • Light promotes CiS40-11 and its homologs expression. • Two active forms of cytokinins increase in CiS40-11 overexpression lines. • The expression of AtMYB2 is regulated by S40 members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analizar determinantes de mortalidad a 15 años en relación con la salud ósea en una población de mayores de 60 años y físicamente activos. Estudio longitudinal prospectivo. A los 15 años de participar en un programa de envejecimiento activo, y de los que se disponía de datos de salud ósea, se contactó telefónicamente con los participantes para constatar el estado vital y conocer si en ese intervalo de tiempo habían tenido alguna fractura, y para determinar la asociación entre la puntuación basal del FRAX, los datos densitométricos y la mortalidad al cabo del tiempo. Se incluyeron 561 individuos mayores de 60 años, de los que el 82% eran mujeres. Solo se encontraron diferencias en las características basales entre el grupo que falleció a los 15 años y el grupo que siguió con vida en los datos densitométricos y en los valores del FRAX, así como en el antecedente de algún tipo de fractura. Las únicas variables que se relacionaron con el riesgo de mortalidad fueron los datos basales del T-score densitométricos (OR = 0,50; p < 0,001) y el antecedente de fractura en cualquier localización (OR = 2,44; p < 0,033). El valor de la densidad mineral ósea podría considerarse como un biomarcador útil para calcular el riesgo de mortalidad en mayores de 60 años con una vida físicamente activa. To analyse determinants of mortality at 15 years in a population over 60 years of age and physically active. This is a prospective longitudinal study. After 15 years of participating in an active aging programme, participants were contacted by telephone to verify their state of health and to determine whether in that time they had had any fractures. A total of 561 individuals over 60 years of age were included, 82% of whom were women. Only differences in densitometric data, FRAX values and history of previous fracture at baseline characteristics were found between the group that died at 15 years and the group that remained alive. The only variables that were related to mortality risk were the basal data of the densitometric T-score (OR =.50, P <.001) and history of fracture in any location (OR = 2.44, P <.033). The value of bone mineral density could be considered as a useful biomarker to calculate the risk of mortality in people over 60 years old with a physically active lifestyle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The implementation of digital healthcare technologies—eHealth—is presented as a solution to increasing costs, demographic changes, and quality issues in rural healthcare. Employing the concept of affective atmospheres, this article uses interviews to explore the emotional aspects of digital healthcare among rural persons of advanced age. Our results suggest that participants were clearly influenced by an affective atmosphere that was deeply embedded in spatial imageries as well as in notions of old age. Strong feelings of resignation, necessity, low entitlement, and defiance tended to encourage participants' wishes for local face-to-face healthcare to translate into viewing eHealth solutions as positive. This also meant that participants came to enact neoliberal identities of "active ageing". In conclusion, the concept of affective atmospheres highlights how human subjects and digital materialities interact in the production of human emotional responses to digital healthcare technologies, and emphasises how the conditions and shared imageries of geographic space and age are active components in that process. • Responses to rural eHealth are influenced by spatially embedded affective atmosphere. • Responses to rural eHealth are influenced by age-sensitive cultural imageries. • Rural affective atmosphere encouraged seeing eHealth solutions as positive. • Rural affective atmosphere made territorial inequalities seem sensible. • Rural affective atmosphere reproduced neoliberal subjectivities of active ageing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Global comparisons and large samples are needed to inform policy makers about aging trends among people aged older than 60 years. Using harmonized data gathered from the Gateway to Global Aging data, we introduce a new framework to measure healthy aging across 13 OECD countries.Methods: First, we developed an original measure of physiological age (PA), that is, a measure of age weighted for the influence of frailty, activities of daily living limitations, and comorbidities. Second, we compared healthy aging measures across 13 countries based on a ranking of the countries according to the discrepancy between estimated PA and chronological age (CA). Third, we explored the socioeconomic factors associated with healthy aging.Results: We found a strong correlation between our PA measure and biological age. Italy, Israel, and the United States are the 3 countries where PA is the highest (independent of CA), thus indicating aging in poor health. In contrast, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Greece, Sweden, and Denmark have much lower PA than CA, thus indicating healthy aging. Finally, the PA-CA discrepancy is higher among poorer, less educated, and single older individuals.Conclusions: Countries with higher PA need to implement or reinforce healthy aging measures and target the disadvantaged populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Higher levels of physical activity are associated with greater intrinsic capacity. • Intrinsic capacity declines faster in inactive versus active individuals. • Mobility, vitality, and the psychological domain mainly drive of the association. • Further research is needed regarding cognition and the sensory domain. The construct of intrinsic capacity (IC) has been recently developed with the aim of assessing and monitoring life-long individuals' functional trajectories. Physical activity (PA) is recognized for its benefits on health but its associations with IC remain less investigated. We explored the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of PA with IC in non-demented older adults. Eight hundred and thirty-seven males and females aged 70 years and over, were included in the present work. IC and its domains (mobility, vitality, cognition, psychology and sensory) were assessed over 2 years and converted to a 0–100 scale. Participants were categorized into 5 PA groups (0–29; 30–499; 500–999; 1000–1999; and 2000+ MET-min/week) using questionnaires. The associations between PA and IC variables (all reflected and square-root-transformed) observed over 2 years were examined using mixed-effect linear regressions. Over the 2-year follow-up, ordinal PA was associated with higher scores in IC (B = -0.066, SE = 0.015, p <.001) In addition, compared to the inactive group, most of the active groups had a slower decline in IC (B 30–499 MET-min/week = -0.196, SE = 0.078; B 500–999 MET-min/week = -0.208, SE = 0.076; B 1000–1999 MET-min/week = -0.165, SE = 0.073; B 2000+ MET-min/week = -0.187, SE = 0.074; all p <.05). Subdomain analyses revealed that these associations were driven by mobility, vitality and psychological domain. This study suggests that PA may help preventing IC decline, especially mobility, vitality, and psychology in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]