Elderly Health Journal

Beyond the Pension Crisis: Activating Iran's Elderly Labor Market as a National Imperative

Mohammad Ali Morowatisharifabad — 2026-01-05

The Article Abstract is not available.

Older Adults Living Alone: A Neglected Population in Times of Disaster

Ameneh Marzban — 2026-01-05

The Article Abstract is not available.

Recreational Sports and the Development of Happiness in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Masoud Naderian — 2026-01-05

Introduction: Recreational sports significantly enhance the physical and mental well-being of older adults, contributing to their overall quality of life and happiness. This study aimed to identify the key factors that shape their inclination toward recreational sports and the development of happiness.

Methods: This study used a systematic review approach to analyze articles on factors influencing older adults’ inclination toward recreational sports and the development of happiness. Relevant Persian and English articles published in reputable national and international journals were included. For domestic articles, databases such as SID, Magiran, Noormags, Civilica, and Irandoc were used. For international articles, a comprehensive search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, as well as platforms including Human Kinetics, ScienceDirect, Sage, Taylor & Francis, Wiley Online Library, Eric, and Google Scholar. The search was restricted to studies published between 2020 and 2024 to ensure the inclusion of the most recent and relevant research. Keywords related to recreational sports, active leisure, and the development of happiness among older adults were used in both Persian and English.

Results: The results of the research, derived from the analysis of 24 studies, indicated that factors such as previous sports experience during youth and middle age, economic status, policy-making methods, organizational, governmental, and private support, interest in physical activity, innovation and technology development, physical and mental health, environmental conditions, emotional and psychological state, and social circles, including friends and family, had the most significant impact on older adults' inclination towards recreational sports and, ultimately, the development of happiness among them.

Conclusion: Supportive policies and targeted training programs should be developed to promote recreational sports among older adults, alongside providing tailored facilities, financial security, and social respect. Improving transportation access and using media for awareness can further enhance their participation and overall happiness.

Exploring New Medical Trends in Geriatrics Research in Iran from 2012 to 2024

Mitra Zarei — 2026-01-05

Introduction: Quantitative evaluation of scientific output across countries and research domains provides critical insights into research trends, identifies knowledge gaps, and facilitates alignment of research efforts with strategic policy objectives. This study employs scientometric analysis to characterize the research landscape of geriatrics in Iran, including temporal trends, dominant research themes, prolific contributors, and influential publication venues.

Methods: This applied scientometric study employed bibliometric analysis and network mapping techniques. The study population comprised all Iranian scientific publications indexed in Scopus in the geriatrics field between 2012 and 2024. Articles were systematically retrieved from the Scopus database using a standardized search strategy, analyzed using VOSviewer software 1.6.2, and visualized through co-authorship and co-occurrence network maps.

Results: A total of 50,496 records were retrieved. Azizi emerged as the most prolific author (n = 614). Larijani demonstrated the strongest collaborative network with 284 co-authorship connections. The Epidemiology Research Center of the University of Tehran was the most productive institution (851 instances; 404 collaborations), followed by the Gastroenterology Research Center of Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences as a key contributor to contemporary geriatrics research. International collaboration analysis revealed that the United States and the United Kingdom were the most frequent research partners with Iranian institutions. PLOS ONE was the highest-impact publication venue for geriatrics research by this cohort, with 8,103 citations.

Conclusion: Research clustering analysis identified priority research themes that have attracted sustained attention within the geriatrics community. Strategic collaboration with high-productivity institutions and international partners may enhance publication visibility and research impact in geriatrics. These findings provide an evidence-based foundation for directing future research priorities and fostering international partnerships in Iranian geriatrics research.

Comparative Efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy versus Schema Therapy for Irrational Beliefs and Death Anxiety in Elderly Women: A Randomized Study

Mitra Mazinani — 2026-01-05

Introduction: Irrational beliefs and death anxiety are prevalent psychological concerns among elderly women, significantly impacting their mental well-being and quality of life. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Schema Therapy (ST) in reducing these psychological constructs in elderly women.

Methods: This randomized controlled trial utilized a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up design with two experimental groups and one control group. In 2023, 45 elderly women from Sabzevar, Iran, were selected via convenience sampling and then randomly assigned into three groups (ACT, ST, or waiting-list control), each with 15 participants. The ACT and ST groups received 8 weekly, 90-minute intervention sessions following standardized protocols, while the control group received no immediate intervention. Data were collected using the Irrational Beliefs Questionnaire and Collett–Lester Fear of Death Scale. Repeated measures ANOVA, followed by post-hoc tests, was conducted using SPSS (version 27).

Results: Both ACT and ST significantly reduced irrational beliefs (ACT: η² = 0.77; ST: η² = 0.75) and death anxiety (ACT: η² = 0.77; ST: η² = 0.76) compared to the control group (p < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were found between the two interventions.

Conclusion: ACT and ST are effective interventions for reducing irrational beliefs and death anxiety in elderly women, highlighting their value in enhancing psychological well-being in this population.

Effects of a COPE-Based Intervention on Resilience and Health Outcomes in Caregivers of Elderly with Diabetes: A Protocol Study

Shirin Madadkar Dehkordi — 2026-01-05

Introduction: Caring for older adults with type 2 diabetes presents multiple physical and psychological challenges that can impact the quality of life of family caregivers. The Creativity, Optimism, Planning, Expert Information (COPE) model, with a focus on comprehensive education and support, have the potential to improve resilience, health literacy, and better illness perception. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention program based on the COPE model on resilience, health literacy, illness perception, and quality of life of family caregivers of elderly people with type 2 diabetes.

Methods: This study is a randomized controlled trial (RCT) protocol with a pre-test and post-test design. The target population consists of family caregivers of elderly people with type 2 diabetes referring to health centers affiliated with Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences. The sample size will be 45 participants in each group (intervention and control), totaling 90 participants. The study will be conducted in two phases: first, designing an educational-support program based on the COPE model through a review of literature and expert panel opinions; and second, implementing the program, which includes a pre-test, delivering the intervention (through in-person sessions, telephone follow-ups, and WhatsApp support), and conducting post-test assessments immediately and three months after the intervention. Data will be collected using a demographic questionnaire, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, the TOFHLA Health Literacy Questionnaire, the Illness Perception Questionnaire, and the SF36 Quality of Life Questionnaire. Data analysis will be performed using SPSS-23 software.

Conclusion: This protocol outlines the methodology for a randomized controlled trial that will evaluate the efficacy of a COPE model-based intervention. If proven effective, this structured program can serve as a practical and replicable framework in healthcare systems to support family caregivers of elderly individuals with type 2 diabetes, potentially enhancing their resilience, health literacy, and overall quality of life.

Subjective Life Expectancy and Cognitive Functioning among Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Thailand: Results of a Longitudinal National Survey in 2017-2022

Karl Peltzer — 2026-01-05

Introduction: Longitudinal studies on the association between subjective life expectancy (SLE) and cognitive functioning are scarce, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the association between SLE and cognitive functioning longitudinally.

Methods: Health, aging, and retirement in Thailand (HART) provided longitudinal national data with n = 6747 from 2017 (wave 2) to 2022 (wave 4). HART includes questions on (1) General Information; (2) Family and Support; (3) Health Status; (4) Work Status; (5) Income and Expenditure; (6) Asset and Debt; (7) Life Expectation; and (8) Exit Interview. SLE and cognitive functioning were assessed with established measures. The time-varying factors and results were evaluated using linear fixed effects regression.

Results: Increases in SLE were associated with higher cognitive functioning. Increases in age were associated with decreases in cognitive functioning, and increases in subjective economic status were associated with increased cognitive functioning, while changes in marital status, work status, physical functioning, and physical illnesses were not associated with cognitive functioning.

Conclusion: The study’s findings contribute to the literature by demonstrating, over a longitudinal period, that higher SLE was associated with higher cognitive functioning among older adults. The results of the study must be validated by additional longitudinal research using panel data techniques.

Presenting a Structural Model of Psychological Health of the Elderly Based on Loneliness, Death Thoughts, and Rumination: Testing the Mediating Role of Spiritual Intelligence

Masoud Qorbanalipour — 2026-01-05

Introduction: The present study aimed to propose a structural model of psychological well-being among older adults based on the components of loneliness, death thought, and rumination, with a focus on the mediating role of spiritual intelligence.

Methods: This research employed a descriptive, quantitative, and correlational design using structural equation modeling. The statistical population included all older adults in the city of Khoy in 2025, from which 200 participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3), Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scale – Short Form (RPWB-SF), Death Thought Questionnaire (DTQ), Ruminative Response Scale (RRS), Spiritual Intelligence Self-Report Inventory (SISRI). Data analysis was conducted through structural equation modeling and bootstrapping techniques using SmartPLS software.

Results: The findings indicated that loneliness (β = -0.40), rumination (β = -0.38), and death thought (β = -0.30) had significant negative effects on psychological well-being in older adults. Conversely, spiritual intelligence (β = 0.50) exerted both direct and indirect positive effects by mitigating the negative impacts of loneliness (β = -0.10), rumination (β = -0.13), and death thought (β = -0.11) on psychological well-being.

Conclusion: These results highlight the protective role of spiritual intelligence against factors that threaten psychological well-being in older adults. Overall, the findings suggest that strengthening spiritual intelligence may serve as an effective strategy to reduce the adverse effects of loneliness, death thought, and rumination, thereby enhancing psychological well-being in this population.

Effect of Resistance Training Volume on Muscular Strength, Stability and Mobility in Sedentary Obese Elderly Women

Hossein TaheriChadorneshin — 2026-01-05

Introduction: There is limited knowledge regarding how different resistance training (RT) volumes affect musculoskeletal fitness adaptations. Hence, our study compared the efficacy of varied RT volumes in enhancing maximal strength, stability, and mobility among sedentary, obese older women.

Methods: Thirty sedentary, obese elderly women (mean age 64.57 ± 4.50 years; mean body mass index 32.34 ± 2.69 kg/m²) participated in this experimental design and were randomly assigned to control (C), low-volume RT (LVRT), and high-volume RT (HVRT) groups. Participants in the LVRT group performed one set of each exercise, while those in the HVRT group performed three sets. Both training groups trained twice weekly for 12 weeks. Assessments were conducted at baseline and post-intervention, including the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, Sharpened Romberg test (SRT), walking and stepping up/down parameters, and whole-body maximal strength.

Results: Post-training, significant enhancements in maximal strength and SRT (p = 0.001 and p = 0.019, respectively) performance were observed in both the LVRT and HVRT groups when compared to the C. Notably, the magnitude of improvement in maximal strength was greater in the HVRT than in the LVRT. Furthermore, time of TUG (p = 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively), walking (p = 0.012 and p = 0.001, respectively), stepping up (p = 0.034 and p = 0.001, respectively), and stepping down (p = 0.016 and p = 0.001, respectively) tests all showed significant reductions in the LVRT and HVRT groups relative to the C. In addition, the time of TUG (p = 0.007), stepping up (p = 0.020), and stepping down (p = 0.001) tests, demonstrated further significant reductions in the HVRT compared to the LVRT group.

Conclusion: RT improves strength, mobility in elderly obese women; higher volumes yield superior gains. These findings support HVRT incorporation to maximize functional benefits this population.

Effects of an Eight-Week Aerobic Training Program on Plasma cPLA2 Levels in Sedentary Elderly Men

Saeideh Mehdipouryan — 2026-01-05

Introduction: Aging is a gradual, time-dependent process marked by a decline in physiological functions, reduced organ performance, and increased susceptibility to disease. Adopting an active lifestyle can substantially influence both the trajectory and pace of aging. Cytosolic Phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) is an enzyme involved in cell signaling and inflammation through the release of arachidonic acid from membrane phospholipids. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of an eight-week aerobic training program on plasma cPLA2 levels in sedentary elderly men.

Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, twenty elderly men aged 60–74 years were recruited through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to an aerobic training group or a control group. The training group completed an eight-week aerobic exercise program consisting of three sessions per week at 50–75% of heart rate reserve, following the principle of progressive overload. The control group did not engage in any structured physical activity. Blood samples were collected from both groups 48 hours before and after the intervention. Plasma cPLA2 levels were measured using an ELISA kit. Analysis of covariance was used to compare outcomes between groups. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23 at a significance level of 0.05.

Results: Eight weeks of aerobic training resulted in a significant reduction in plasma cPLA2 levels compared with the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: These findings suggest that regular aerobic exercise may reduce inflammatory markers such as cPLA2 in elderly individuals and may contribute to the management of inflammation-related conditions in older age.

The Effect of Virtual Empathy Training on Nurses' Empathy and Attitudes Toward Elderly Care

Mehdi Ghafouri — 2026-01-05

Introduction: This study evaluated the effect of virtual empathy skills training on nurses' attitudes toward elderly care.

Methods: A quasi-experimental, single-group, pre-test/post-test study was conducted in 2023. Eighty-four nurses from Yazd Shohadaye Kargar Hospital were selected via purposive sampling. Over five weeks, participants received empathy skills training through a virtual group created using dedicated software and an educational brochure. Each week, participants shared their patient care experiences. The researcher facilitated discussions to challenge perspectives, provided summaries, and encouraged feedback. Data were collected via a self-report questionnaire comprising demographic items and the Jefferson Empathy Scale, administered before the intervention, immediately after, and two months post-intervention. Data were analyzed in SPSS using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: Post-intervention, the mean empathy score showed a statistically significant increase from the pre-intervention score (p < 0.001). This significant improvement in empathy was maintained at the two-month follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean attitude score also increased significantly from baseline at both post-intervention assessments (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: The training effectively enhanced nurses' empathy and improved their attitudes toward elderly care. Incorporating empathy training into undergraduate nursing education is therefore recommended.

Cognitive Style as a Predictor of Health Outcomes in Elderly Women: A Systematic Review

Ramina Atashgahian — 2026-01-05

Introduction: Aging is generally associated with physiological and psychological changes, and older women often exhibit distinct health trajectories. Cognitive style, which includes distinct patterns of information processing such as optimism and pessimism, is increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of mental and physical health. This systematic review sought to assess the predictive validity of cognitive style on various health outcomes, particularly in the older female population.

Methods: Systematic review approach was employed. Major electronic databases were searched from 2010 to the present using combinations of terms related to “cognitive style,” “optimism,” “pessimism,” “older women,” and “health outcomes”. Eligible studies included longitudinal and analytical designs where cognitive style was assessed as an antecedent variable predicting later health. This study provides a qualitative synthesis of findings and does not include any quantitative statistical pooling, due to methodological heterogeneity across studies.

Results: Across the reviewed literature, optimism consistently predicted healthier psychological and behavioral outcomes among older adults, particularly older women. Higher optimism was associated with lower depressive and anxiety symptoms, greater psychological well-being, enhanced life satisfaction, more adaptive coping strategies, and better sleep quality. Conversely, pessimism was linked to elevated psychological distress and maladaptive coping. Several studies also highlighted the role of contextual factors such as physical activity, social support, and socioeconomic conditions in shaping cognitive styles in later life. Collectively, these findings suggest that optimism may function as a protective psychological resource promoting healthier aging trajectories.

Conclusion: Cognitive style serves as an important and modifiable predictor of health outcomes in older women. The findings strongly suggest that interventions focused on enhancing an optimistic style could be a valuable, non-pharmacological strategy for promoting successful aging in this population group.

Comparison of Voluntary, Forced, and Water-Resistance Exercise on Hippocampal BDNF and NGF Expression in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Younes Baziyar — 2026-01-05

Introduction: Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that causes impairments in memory, thinking, and behavior. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of eight weeks of voluntary, forced, and resistance training in water on the expression of BDNF and NGF genes in the hippocampus of mice in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

Methods: Thirty male C57BL/6 mice weighing between 250-280 grams and aged over 15 months (elderly) were randomly divided into 5 groups: 1. Control, 2. Alzheimer’s disease (ALZ), 3. Voluntary training (ALZ+V-Ex), 4. Forced training (ALZ+F-Ex), and 5. Resistance training (ALZ+R-Ex). The training groups underwent their respective exercises for eight weeks, five days per week. The expression of BDNF and NGF genes was evaluated using Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test with a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results: Tukey’s post hoc test showed a significant decrease in BDNF and NGF gene expression in the ALZ group compared to the control group (p = 0.001). Significant increases in BDNF and NGF expression were observed in the ALZ+V-Ex (p = 0.001), ALZ+F-Ex (p = 0.001), and ALZ+R-Ex (p = 0.001) groups compared to the ALZ group. Among the exercise groups, BDNF and NGF expression was significantly higher in the ALZ+V-Ex group compared to ALZ+F-Ex (p = 0.001) and ALZ+R-Ex (p = 0.001), and expression was also significantly higher in ALZ+R-Ex compared to ALZ+F-Ex (p = 0.01(.

Conclusion: The results of this study showed that all three types of exercises—voluntary, forced, and water resistance training —significantly increased the expression of BDNF and NGF genes in mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

Association Between Mediterranean Diet Adherence and Physical Activity in Elderly Men: A Comparative Study Between Iran and Spain

Mojgan Banihashemi — 2026-01-05

Introduction: The elderly population is increasing worldwide, highlighting the importance of healthy lifestyle behaviors such as nutritious eating and regular physical activity (PA). The Mediterranean-style dietary pattern (MDP) is recognized for its health-promoting nutritional profile. This study examines the association between MDP adherence and PA levels in elderly men from Iran and Spain.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly individuals aged 60 years and older in Iran and Spain (n = 1200). Adherence to the MDP was evaluated using a validated Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener. PA levels were assessed using the Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity questionnaire. Additional demographic and anthropometric data—including age, sex, weight, and height—were also collected.

Results: Among Iranian elderly participants, vigorous PA showed a significant positive association with adherence to the MDP (β = 0.143, p = 0.001). No significant associations were observed for light (β = 0.055, p = 0.178) or moderate (β = −0.003, p = 0.934) physical activity. Among Spanish elderly participants, adherence to the MDP was significantly associated with both vigorous (β = 0.241, p < 0.001) and light (β = 0.112, p = 0.004) PA, while moderate activity showed no significant relationship (β = 0.007, p = 0.987).

Conclusion: Adherence to the MDP is positively associated with higher levels of vigorous PA in elderly men from both Iran and Spain, and with light PA among Spanish participants. These findings highlight the role of lifestyle behaviors—particularly diet and PA —in shaping health-related patterns in older adults, and emphasize the importance of promoting MDP alongside regular PA

Modeling the Quality of Life in Older Adults Based on Smartphone Use: The Mediating Role of Perceived Social Support and Personality Traits

Mohammad Ebrahimi — 2026-01-05

Introduction: The use of accessible technologies and their practical applications can play a significant role in helping older adults overcome physical and cognitive limitations, frustration, or the loss of active roles in life. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between smartphone use and quality of life, examining the mediating roles of personality traits and perceived social support among Iranian older adults.

Methods: This cross-sectional correlational study employed structural equation modeling (SEM). A total of 300 older adults were selected using purposive sampling. The instruments included a researcher-developed questionnaire on smartphone use, the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale for Older Adults, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the Ten-Item Personality Inventory. Data were analyzed using SEM and multiple regression.

Results: Smartphone use was significantly correlated with quality of life (p < 0.01). Regression analysis showed that perceived social support (β = 0.235, P < 0.01), emotional stability (β = 0.201, p < 0.01), and openness (β = 0.117, p < 0.05) significantly predicted quality of life among older adults. Furthermore, openness and perceived social support mediated the indirect relationship between smartphone use and quality of life. In addition, extraversion and perceived social support jointly served as combined mediators between the predictor and criterion variables.

Conclusion: Smartphone use through the mediating effect of perceived social support, particularly when accompanied by the personality traits of extraversion and openness—can enhance and improve the quality of life in older adults.