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Interdisciplinary Falls Prevention Program for Older Community Dwellers within a Rehabilitation Hospital
57-59Views:144Falls are a significant public health concern, particularly among older persons resulting in injuries, decreased mobility, reduced quality of life and higher mortality.
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Starting from scratch: realities of older Maltese ex-sisters
7-8Views:184Statistics have revealed how not only globally but also in Malta the number of women religious has decreased. This study delved into the experiences of older ex-sisters from apostolic congregations who held simple vows, lived in the convent, subsequently leaving the congregation.
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Longer male life in the Mediterranean: Older men's roles, habits and leisure activities in Malta
3-4Views:26Most aging societies are characterized by gender differences, i.e., a predominance of women among those aged 65 and over, and especially among the oldest elderly. -
Growing Old and Being Gay or Lesbian in Malta: Anticipating Care in a Heteronormative Society
Views:183Malta presents a unique paradox for sexual minority elders: it boasts some of the world’s most progressive LGBTIQ+ legislation, yet retains a deeply rooted, religiously conservative social fabric. This article explores how this paradox shapes the ageing experiences and anticipated care needs of older gay men and lesbian women. Drawing on critical gerontology and utilising the Biographic-Narrative Interpretive Method (BNIM), to collect the data, using Thematic Analysis this study examins the life histories of participants aged 58 to 72. Findings reveal a pervasive fear of ‘re-closeting’ upon entry into long-term care, driven by a lifetime of navigating heteronormativity. A distinct gendered divergence emerged: while male participants largely embraced a gay identity, female participants frequently rejected the ‘lesbian’ label, adopting strategies of protective silence. The study challenges normative models of ‘successful ageing,’ highlighting instead the resilience found in ‘families of choice.’ The article concludes that despite legal equality, the lack of culturally competent care creates a precarious future for Maltese sexual minorities, necessitating urgent policy interventions and affirmative staff training to support ageing in place.
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Insights into the lived experience of Long-Term Care and End of Life Transitions in Malta
3-4Views:228In this keynote presentation, I explore the profound implications of the global demographic shift towards an ageing population. I delve into the challenges and opportunities presented by this shift, using Malta as a unique case study with 25% of its citizens aged 60 and older. The dense population poses challenges for infrastructure, healthcare access, and the overall well-being of older individuals.
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Hungarian Gerontology 15 (Conference Issue) 2023 Full Issue
Views:51Message from the Guest Editor Special Issue
It is with immense gratitude and reflection that I write this brief editorial as the guest editor for the Online International Gerontology Conference proceedings. The conference has concluded, leaving us with a wealth of knowledge, insightful discussions, and a renewed commitment to the field of gerontology.
I extend my sincere appreciation to Dr. Habil Marianna Móré, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, and Dr. Agnes Bene for the gracious invitation to contribute to this distinguished event. As we reflect on the proceedings, we find ourselves standing at the intersection of a profound demographic shift and a global commitment to addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with an ageing population. In the conference, the exploration of gerontology, which has proven to be more critical than ever, was guided by three overarching themes: "Ageing," "Well-being," and "Innovation." These themes direct our exploration of the complexities of ageing, strategies for promoting well-being in older adults, and the transformative power of innovation.
The challenges we discussed were substantial, but the potential for progress was equally significant. Together, we navigated the complexities of ageing, delving into strategies for promoting well-being in older adults and embracing the transformative power of innovation. The multifaceted journey of ageing, rich in wisdom and resilience, was a focal point of our discussions, inspiring research and influencing policy decisions.
The concept of well-being took centre stage, emphasizing not just longevity but a life filled with dignity, contentment, and meaning. Our exploration of various facets of well-being showcased the latest research and best practices, reaffirming our commitment to creating communities where older adults can live with dignity and flourish. The third theme, "Driving Innovation," highlighted the necessity for creative thinking and novel strategies in the ever-evolving field of gerontology. The conference provided a platform to learn about and discuss the latest innovations, positioning gerontologists at the forefront of this innovation-driven journey.
As a guest editor, I am privileged to witness the impact of our collective efforts. The proceedings encapsulate the depth of our discussions, the diversity of perspectives, and the commitment of gerontologists, researchers, caregivers, and policymakers to driving positive change. The conference has not only enriched our understanding of gerontology but has also fortified our shared vision for a brighter future for older adults worldwide.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each contributor for their valuable insights and dedication. The proceedings stand as a testament to the tireless work and collaborative spirit that defines the gerontological community. May this compilation serve as a lasting resource, inspiring further research, policy development, and innovations in the pursuit of enhancing the lives of older adults. Thank you for your unwavering commitment and contributions.
Dr. Christian Borg Xuereb PhD.
Guest-Editor of the Special Issue
Department of Gerontology and Dementia Studies
Faculty for Social Wellbeing
University of Malta, Malta
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Active Ageing Good Practices Promoting Intergenerational Communication and Understanding
5-6Views:245Persistent negative stereotypes on the aging process and the older person are noticeable within the current youth-orientated culture. Older persons may also hold negative stereotypes about the younger generation. These undesirable typecasts co-exist because younger and older persons often have limited contact with each other. Indeed, the younger generation, only gets to engage in communication with the older person within the family unit, rarely outside their own familial structures. Similarly, older persons, residents of long-term care have limited opportunities of interacting with the younger generation.
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Relocation Stress Syndrome and Associated Health Outcomes among Older Persons Living in Long-Term Care Facilities: Findings from a Systematic Literature Review
53-54Views:235Relocation stress syndrome was officially recognised as a nursing diagnosis in 1992; however, the phenomenon had been documented for at least 70 years. In Western literature, high mortality rates and other deleterious effects of relocation on older person populations were described as early as the 1960s.
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Growing Old and Being LGBTIQ in Malta: What Happens When We Need Care?
75-76Views:14The present abstract explores the lived experiences of older lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ+) individuals in Malta, focusing on the intersection of ageing, care needs, and systemic disparities. -
Physical Restraint Use within Maltese Long-Term Care Settings
9-10Views:196The holistic study looked at the locally unexplored environment, providing a platform of knowledge base and information on physical restraint use. The project secured relevant information focal to the older person residents, health care providers and policy makers within long-term care settings.
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Formal Carers’ Perspectives on Elder Abuse within a Maltese Care Home
55-56Views:139This research explores formal caregivers’ perspectives on elder abuse within a Maltese care home, addressing the challenges posed by an ageing population and the growing reliance on long-term care.
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Hungarian Gerontology 16 (Conference Issue) 2024 Full Issue
Views:60Dear Reader,
On October 10–11, 2024, we successfully organized the 17th International Scientific Conference and Professional Meeting of Gerontology Days. This year’s theme, “Cooperation,” served as the central thread connecting the numerous presentations delivered in both Hungarian and English. The conference itself exemplified this spirit of collaboration, as reflected in the event’s key highlights: · 5 Sponsors supported the event, enriching the conference with their contributions: Pasta of Tiszaörs, the Caring Watch Program, the Pécs Community Foundation (with the P-AGE Conscious Aging Program), the Rural Treasure Association, and the Association of Sarud. · 7 Partners contributed to the organization: o Hungarian Academy of Sciences Regional Committee (Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County) – Lifestyle and Health Research Interdisciplinary Working Committee o Hungarian Academy of Sciences Regional Committee – Medical Committee (Geriatrics and Social Gerontology Working Committee) o Hungarian Women’s Career Development Association o National Association of Doctoral Students, Department of Economics o Hungarian Association of Consumer Advocates o Economic Competition Advisory Office Network o Financial Navigator Advisory Office Network · 2 Conference Days: The first day featured Hungarian-language presentations, while the second day focused on English-language sessions. · 2 Organizing Institutions & Conference Chairs: o Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen – Dr. habil. Marianna Móré (Dean) o Faculty for Social Wellbeing, University of Malta – Dr. Maria Aurora Fenech (Senior Lecturer) · 4 Scientific Committee Members and 13 Organizing Committee Members, whose dedication ensures the event’s success year after year. · 7 Plenary Lectures (5 on the Hungarian day, 2 on the English day). 3 · 12 Thematic Sections (7 on the Hungarian day, 5 on the English day). · 92 Section Presentations (43 in Hungarian, 49 in English). A Special Issue of Hungarian Gerontology (Vol. 16, 2024) has been prepared based on these presentations. The research showcased the diverse realities of aging populations worldwide, including: · Self-determination challenges among Malta’s elderly · Slovakia’s pension system · Poland’s “silver economy” · Syria’s healthcare landscape · The status of Nigeria’s elderly population · Digital learning capabilities of older adults in Germany · Simulation model applications · Dementia home care challenges in Hungary (examined through literary works) · AI in doctor-patient communication · The Grany Adoption Foundation in Kyrgyzstan · Aging in the Philippines and other nations, highlighting both struggles and positive aspects of later life. We hope this collection offers you a profound and enlightening exploration of global aging perspectives.
With warm regards, Edina Molnár Plenary Chair, Hungarian Day
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Harmonising Perspectives: Understanding the Resident's Voice and Care Homes' Culture
67-68Views:162One must focus on the concept of dealing with an older person who is battling with the reality of having to leave the comfort zone for a good number of years to enter a different world within an institution. Working towards reaching new cultural aspirations can be disturbing in its own way. We all must educate ourselves about all the influences affecting this transformation.
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Bridging the Gap: VR Applications for Both Inpatients and Outpatients in Long-Term Care
51-52Views:154Virtual reality technology is increasingly utilised in long-term care to enhance patient engagement and improve outcomes. This presentation focuses on the integration of virtual reality in occupational therapy for both inpatients and outpatients at St Vincent de Paul Long-Term Care Facility, particularly for individuals recovering from stroke and those with Parkinson’s disease.
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Empowering older persons: The truths and challenges of care decisions for enhanced quality of life
5-6Views:166As the global population ages, empowering older persons in care decisions becomes increasingly crucial for enhancing their quality of life. This paper explores the complexities of empowerment in the context of care decisions for older persons, examining both the facts and challenges involved.
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Reforging kinship bonds with older people
69Views:146In this paper I start with a provocative claim that a society is being constructed that creates - while simultaneously disposing of - older men and women. I argue that Western contemporary society is creating an environment that is increasingly hostile to older persons.