Driving Factors for Subjective Relative Deprivation Alleviating Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults with Disabilities — China, 2023

   A new study conducted in China explores the connection between economic deprivation, internet usage, and subjective relative deprivation among middle-aged and older adults with disabilities. The study, based on the latest data available, found that both absolute and relative economic deprivation are significantly associated with subjective relative deprivation in this population. Additionally, the study highlights the mediating role of internet use in this relationship. Subjective relative deprivation has been linked to adverse physical and mental health consequences, emphasizing the importance of addressing economic deprivation and enhancing internet accessibility for this specific population. The study used data from the National Sample Survey on Subjective Perceptions and Evaluation of Persons with Disabilities' Protection and Development, targeting individuals listed in the National Basic Database of People with Disabilities. The findings have implications for public health practice, highlighting the need to mitigate the effects of subjective relative deprivation among middle-aged and older adults with disabilities.

   For more information: https://weekly.chinacdc.cn/en/article/doi/10.46234/ccdcw2023.164

The Relationship Between Physical Activity and All-Cause Mortality Among Older Adults — China, 1998–2018

   A recent study conducted in China analyzed the relationship between physical activity and all-cause mortality among older adults. The research found that regular exercise and engagement in leisure activities were associated with a lower mortality risk, while physical labor did not have a significant impact. The study suggests that encouraging older adults to participate in a combination of exercise and leisure activities may yield more significant health benefits than exercise alone. The findings were based on data from a nationally representative investigation into factors contributing to healthy longevity in China. The study included over 34,000 participants aged 65 or older. The methods used included descriptive data analysis, Cox proportional hazard regression models, and subgroup analyses. The study highlights the importance of promoting physical and leisure activities for older populations to improve longevity and overall health.

   For more information: https://weekly.chinacdc.cn/en/article/doi/10.46234/ccdcw2023.165

Associations Between Specific Diets, Dietary Diversity, and Cognitive Frailty in Older Adults — China, 2002–2018

   A recent Chinese study from 2002-2018 has shed light on the association between specific diets, dietary diversity, and cognitive frailty in older people. The study, based on data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Study, found that regular consumption of fruit, meat, bean products, garlic, and tea was linked to a decreased risk of cognitive frailty. Furthermore, the study found that individuals with a higher dietary diversity score (DDS) also had a lower risk of cognitive frailty. The findings suggest that a greater frequency of consuming these specific foods and a higher DDS may help reduce the risk of cognitive frailty in older individuals. Cognitive frailty is a condition characterized by the simultaneous presence of physical frailty and mild cognitive impairment. Currently, there is no known effective treatment for cognitive frailty, making it crucial to identify modifiable risk factors to prevent its onset. This study adds to the growing body of research on the relationship between diet and cognitive function, highlighting the importance of a diverse and balanced diet in promoting cognitive health in older individuals.

   For more information: https://weekly.chinacdc.cn/en/article/doi/10.46234/ccdcw2023.166

Long-term Trends in Healthy and Unhealthy Life Expectancy Among Adults Aged 60 — A Global Perspective, 1990–2019

   A comprehensive analysis of global trends in healthy and unhealthy life expectancy for adults aged 60 and over from 1990 to 2019 has been conducted. The study examines the proportion of unhealthy years in life expectancy for this demographic and correlates these trends with socio-demographic and health services indicators. The research highlights the need to prioritize interventions that ensure both quality and longevity of life for the aging population. The lack of comprehensive research in this area may hinder the development of effective aging policies and healthcare strategies. Between 1990 and 2019, global life expectancy and healthy life expectancy for older adults consistently increased. The regions with the fastest growth were South Asia and East Asia & Pacific, followed by Europe and Central Asia. China showed remarkable progress, ranking among the highest globally. However, excluding Sub-Saharan Africa, all regions experienced an increase in the proportion of life expectancy spent in ill health. This analysis provides valuable insights for evidence-based public health strategies and policies tailored to address the unique challenges of an aging global community.

   For more information: https://weekly.chinacdc.cn/en/article/doi/10.46234/ccdcw2023.167

Response of Global Health Towards the Challenges Presented by Population Aging

   Addressing the Global Health Challenges of an Aging Population" The global population is aging at an unprecedented rate, presenting numerous challenges for global health systems. The increasing demand for healthcare resources, the diverse healthcare needs of the elderly, and the insufficient response from healthcare systems are all contributing factors. With older individuals facing more health complications and chronic diseases, there is a higher need for emergency care, public health services, and long-term care. The text emphasizes the importance of personalized care for the elderly, including preventive measures, psychological support, end-of-life care, and nutritional counseling. However, the scarcity of healthcare workers and the lack of integration between long-term care systems and healthcare services pose significant obstacles. Low-income countries are projected to face a shortage of 15 million healthcare workers by 2030, creating regional disparities in elderly care. Furthermore, global guidelines and policies often fail to adequately address the needs of the aging population. This media brief highlights the urgent need for international development and investment in addressing the challenges arising from population aging in order to ensure the well-being and health of older individuals worldwide.

   For more information: https://weekly.chinacdc.cn/en/article/doi/10.46234/ccdcw2023.168