Lifestyle and Environment Influence the Psychological Well-Being of Elderly Subjects in Italy
Author Information
Author(s): Migliore Simone, De Angelis Marco, Di Pompeo Ilaria, Lozzi Daniele, Marcaccio Martina, Curcio Giuseppe
Primary Institution: University of L’Aquila
Hypothesis
The study aimed to evaluate the impact of lifestyle (active vs. non-active) and environmental context (institutionalized vs. non-institutionalized) on the cognitive functioning, psychological well-being, sleep quality, and daily living skills of elderly people.
Conclusion
An active lifestyle and a non-institutionalized environment positively contribute to the mental and physical well-being of elderly individuals.
Supporting Evidence
- Active individuals showed lower levels of depression compared to non-active individuals.
- Institutionalized individuals had higher levels of depression and reduced cognitive functioning.
- Active lifestyle is linked to better sleep quality and daily living skills.
- Environmental context significantly impacts psychological well-being and cognitive functioning.
Takeaway
Staying active and living outside of nursing homes helps older people feel better and do better in daily life.
Methodology
Participants were divided into active and non-active groups, and institutionalized and non-institutionalized groups, with various psychological instruments administered to evaluate cognitive functioning, psychological well-being, sleep quality, and daily living skills.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to lack of information on pharmacotherapy/comorbidity.
Limitations
The study could not evaluate cognitive and psychological functioning comprehensively and lacked information on ongoing pharmacological treatments/comorbidity.
Participant Demographics
Participants included elderly individuals from the city of L’Aquila, Italy, with a mean age of 67.19 years for active individuals and 79.49 years for institutionalized individuals.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 2.33–3.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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