American journal of preventive medicine
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Older adults experiencing loneliness or social isolation may experience poor patient-provider communication, potentially contributing to suboptimal health care utilization, particularly in mental health care. However, empirical evidence is limited. Thus, this study examined whether there were differences in patient-provider communication and health care utilization between Medicare beneficiaries with and without loneliness and social isolation. ⋯ These findings highlight significant disparities in patient-provider communication among Medicare beneficiaries experiencing loneliness and social isolation. These disparities may partly result from limited engagement with mental health services, which could help address their specific health care needs.
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The relationship between physical activity behaviour and subsequent falls in adults from mid-life to older age is unclear. Falls and fall-related injuries could lessen physical activity participation. This study examined patterns and bidirectional associations between physical activity and falls from mid-life to older age. ⋯ The prospective bidirectional association between physical activity and falls supports addressing falls by promoting activity and highlighting the impact of injurious falls on reduced physical activity participation.
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Traditional research on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) often retrospectively assesses ACEs and treats ACEs as a composite score, potentially overlooking the distinct effects of specific ACE patterns and their critical timing, which may influence health outcomes differently. It is crucial to explore variations in the patterns and timing of ACE exposure across racial/ethnic groups to improve ACE screening and intervention strategies. ⋯ This study highlights the necessity of analyzing diverse class structures and the timing of ACEs across different racial/ethnic groups. Understanding these nuances is vital for developing culturally tailored interventions to reduce health disparities.
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The American population diagnosed with opioid use disorder (OUD) is growing, particularly those aged ≥65 years. Less than 30% of OUD patients receive medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD), and even fewer older adults. ⋯ The rate of MOUD use was low in older adults. The disparity in MOUD use underscores the need for improved access to comprehensive opioid treatment programs and increased MOUD coverage. Additional studies of treatment patterns are also warranted.
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The study investigated associations between paternal depression when children were age 5 and teacher-reported behavioral problems at age 9. ⋯ Paternal depression when children transitioned to kindergarten was associated with poorer teacher ratings of behaviors and social skills at age 9. These findings suggest a need for interventions that identify and support fathers with depressive symptoms and their children.