Mobility Device Use and Social Well-Being in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Liu Xinran, Baumann Sara, Rosso Andrea, Venditti Elizabeth, Yao Yao, Albert Steven
Primary Institution: Peking University, China; University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
Hypothesis
Does mobility device use improve activities, participation, and life satisfaction among community-dwelling older adults over time?
Conclusion
Mobility device users have lower life satisfaction and participation in paid work compared to non-users.
Supporting Evidence
- Mobility device users have significantly lower participation in paid work compared to non-users.
- Mobility device use was associated with decreased driving and increased reliance on rides from others.
- Older mobility device users exhibited lower life satisfaction in the long term.
Takeaway
Using mobility devices can help older people get around, but it might make them feel less happy and less involved in work.
Methodology
Data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) was used, comparing mobility device users with non-users matched by age, gender, race, and physical performance.
Limitations
The study may not account for all personal and environmental factors affecting social well-being.
Participant Demographics
Community-dwelling older adults in the United States.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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