Browsing by Author "Hewson, Jennifer"

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    Carving out a place for “pets” within the age-friendly agenda: A case study exploring the public health implications of companion animal relationships for older adults who are aging-in-place
    (2018-01-17) Toohey, Ann Madeline; Rock, Melanie June; Adams, Cindy; Hewson, Jennifer
    Growing numbers of people surpass the age of 65 each year, and a widely adopted response has been to work towards making communities more “age-friendly,” as per the World Health Organization’s age-friendly policy framework. Within this framework, there is no explicit reference to older adults’ relationships with companion animals (“pets”), even as pet-ownership is prevalent among older adults in many countries worldwide. Thus my research aimed to explore, from a socio-ecological perspective, the extent to which growing efforts to promote aging-in-place by adopting an age-friendly policy framework may also be influencing the health-promoting potential of relationships between older adults and their companion animals. To achieve this aim, I conducted an ethnographic multiple case study set in Calgary, Alberta, between November 2014 and October 2016. This approach allowed me to explore these influences at both the national and local population levels. My case study entailed three methodologically distinct, yet conceptually linked, research components: (i) a statistical analysis of associations between social participation and life satisfaction for older pet owners and non-owners participating in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA); (ii) a thematic content analysis of local community-based social support and animal welfare agencies’ experiences of serving older adults with companion animals; and (iii) a dialogical narrative analysis of the housing transition challenges described by lower income older adults who were aging-in-place with a companion animal. In synthesizing the findings of each component, my thesis concludes that companion animal relationships may, in some circumstances, confound efforts to promote age-friendly communities in ways that are equitable. Consideration for companion animals is merited across several domains of age-friendliness. The negative consequences of omitting consideration for older adults’ relationships with companion animals from age-friendly efforts may be unfairly borne by those who are experiencing socio-economic disadvantages and social isolation as they age-in-place. This omission may unintentionally serve to impede the health-promoting benefits of animal companionship later in life. A reversal of this situation could help to contribute to health equity and social justice for the growing numbers of older adults who are aging-in-place, and for their companion animals.
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    Characterizing Readiness for Advance Care Planning: An Interpretive Descriptive Study in Supportive Living
    (2015-04-30) Shaw, Marta; Hewson, Jennifer; Hogan, David
    Currently, patient wishes for healthcare at EOL are not readily followed due to a lack of effective communication as well as discordance between patients’ preferences and medical orders. Advance Care Planning involves reflection on and communication of a person’s future healthcare preferences. In Supportive Living, residents are at risk of cognitive decline and frailty, requiring healthcare decisions. ACP is recommended but readiness to engage is not known. The purpose of this study was to explore perceptions of readiness, factors influencing readiness and strategies to improve ACP interventions of SL residents, their families/decision-makers and clinicians. This qualitative study utilized an Interpretive Descriptive approach. For SL residents, ACP is related to making the transition to SL. Families of SL residents draw on experience as a prior decision-maker. Clinicians vary in their comfort with ACP engagement. Themes across the groups include: variable definition of ACP, roles in ACP, readiness for engagement and barriers/facilitators. These findings can be used to contribute to the understanding of ACP engagement, inform the clinical approach and provide future direction for ACP research.
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    A Comparison of Two Methods of Teaching Research to Master of Social Work Students
    (Sciedu Press, 2012-05-15) Walsh, Christine; Hewson, Jennifer
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    Experiences With Social Participation in Group Physical Activity Programs for Older Adults
    (Human Kinetics, Inc., 2021-06-24) Zimmer, Chantelle; McDonough, Meghan H.; Hewson, Jennifer; Toohey, Ann; Din, Cari; Crocker, Peter R.E.; Bennett, Erica V.
    Little is known about how social participation can be facilitated among older adults in group physical activity and its psychosocial benefits that contribute to successful aging. This study aimed to understand older adults’ experiences with social participation in group physical activity programs. Using interpretive description methodology, 16 observations, eight focus groups, and two interviews with participants unable to attend focus groups were conducted with adults 55 years and older attending programs across four recreation facilities. Group programs were found to influence social participation through (a) a meaningful context for connecting and (b) instructors’ expectations of social interaction. Social participation in these programs addressed psychosocial needs by (c) increasing social contact and interaction, (d) fostering social relationships and belonging, and (e) promoting regular engagement. Training for instructors should include balancing the physical aspects of program delivery with the social, while also considering older adults’ diverse needs and preferences for social interaction.
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    Exploring the Experiences of Social Workers Using Spirituality in Their Practice
    (2022-04) Ciesielski, Jill; Walsh, Christine; Hewson, Jennifer; Gulbrandsen, Carolyn; Sinclair, Shane
    Despite decades of discussion, spirituality remains a neglected area of social work education and practice. This study explored the experiences and perspectives of seven social work practitioners in Alberta who are actively incorporating spirituality into their practice through qualitative interviews. The findings indicated the ways these practitioners are using spirituality in their direct work with clients, the relationship between their own personal spirituality and their work, and the ways in which their specific practice context influences their use of spirituality in practice. Despite a lack of guidance with respect to spirituality in their social work education and training, participants were drawing on their own experiences and resources to inform their use of spirituality in practice. While this highlighted the resourcefulness of the participants, it also raised ethical questions about the implications of this more broadly within the social work profession. Implications for social work education, practice, and policy and recommendations for future research are also outlined.
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    Instructor Social Support in the Group Physical Activity Context: Older Participants’ Perspectives
    (Human Kinetics, 2023-03-22) Morrison, Lindsay; McDonough, Meghan H.; Zimmer, Chantelle; Din, Cari; Hewson, Jennifer; Toohey, Ann; Crocker, Peter R. E.; Bennett, Erica V.
    Instructors in organized physical activity classes can be a source of social support through their relationships with participants, influence on participants’ interactions with each other, and design of activities. Grounded in interpretive description, the objective of this study was to examine older adults’ experiences of and their perspectives on group physical activity instructors’ supportive behaviors. Observations of 16 group physical activity classes (N = 295) and focus groups or interviews with N = 38 class participants aged ≥ 55 (n = 29 women) were conducted at four municipal recreation facilities in a Canadian city. Five themes shed light on how instructors provided social support: (a) supporting autonomous engagement, (b) developing caring connections, (c) fostering trust through expert instruction, (d) managing conflict directly and effectively, and (e) creating a climate where people want to go. Instructor training should consider older adults’ social support needs and help instructors embody behaviors that support continued physical activity participation, thereby contributing to healthy aging.
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    Leadership Capacity of Nonprofit Social Service Organizations in Alberta
    (2021-12-09) Doan-Nguyen, Mylan; Eaton, Sarah; Groen, Janet; Kawalilak, Colleen; Hewson, Jennifer; Hamm, Lyle
    Society relies on nonprofit organizations to provide essential services to marginalized populations and advocate for public policy; yet, service providers are constantly being challenged by funding competition, increasing demand for services, and leadership shortage. This qualitative multi-case study provides insights gathered from Alberta nonprofit executive leaders (n = 9) as to how they leverage their own leadership capacities for their social service organizations and also build organizational leadership capacity. Nonprofit leaders from organizations in the western Canadian cities of Calgary and Edmonton were interviewed. Six major themes and three sub-themes emerged. Participants brought a wide range of education and experience to their roles; they invested in themselves through lifelong learning, and they were the best fit for the organization they led. These executive leaders did not subscribe to any specific leadership styles, but made important decisions for their organization based on its vision and mission. Study participants were cognizant of their strengths and believed that emergent leaders should hone their entrepreneurial mindset and strive to be future-focused. Although leadership training is important to develop future leaders, inadequacies do exist in current training models, according to the study participants. Current training does not provide potential candidates the opportunities to build leadership capacities through experiential learning and mentorship, two components that the executive leaders in this study believed to be crucial to the success of future leaders.
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    Older Adults’ Physical Activity and Social Participation During COVID-19
    (Routledge, 2022-06-30) Morrison, Lindsay; McDonough, Meghan H.; Won, Stephanie; Matsune, AJ; Hewson, Jennifer
    COVID-19 disrupted older adults’ physical and social participation. We examined changes in social participation and physical activity during COVID-19 and perceptions of precautionary measures and online or outdoor classes in 155 older adults (Mage = 70.50 ± 4.62 years). Patrons at Calgary recreation centers ≥ 65 years recruited via e-mail were surveyed between August-September 2020. Social participation (p <0.01) and resistance (p <0.01) and flexibility (p =0.03) physical activity declined. Mild physical activity increased (p =0.03). 33.57% attended online classes. Most precautionary measures were endorsed. Understanding behavior and receptivity to precautions helps providers adapt to COVID-19.
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    Reintegration of Trafficking Survivors in Nepal
    (2017) Dhungel, Rita; Wulff, Dan; Hewson, Jennifer; Louie, Dustin W.; Winterdyk, John; Wilson, Maureen
    The United Nations has recognized trafficking of girls and women for sexual exploitation as a most serious global social issue that requires attention from national and international communities. While the most focus has been on prevention of trafficking, protection, and reintegration of survivors has never become a priority for the Government of Nepal and the community as a whole, making their lives vulnerable to socio-economic marginalization. Previous studies emphasize that the challenges for reintegration can be influenced by the various forms of structural inequality, such as poverty, discriminatory gender practice and stigma. Within the last decade, there has been an increase in the number of programs with a focus on reintegration, mostly initiated by nongovernmental and not-for profit agencies in partnership with the Government of Nepal, however research in this area is limited. In particular, there is a need was identified for a study to construct knowledge on the term ‘successful’ reintegration for trafficking survivors and their own roles for ending the violence against them. This dissertation used a participatory action research as an emancipatory methodology grounded in a collective and solidarity approach with an intersectionality analysis to engage eight trafficking survivors as co-researchers/peer researchers, in Kathmandu, Nepal. Through a process of action-reflection-action, the peer researchers collectively chose and used a number of liberatory methods including peer interviews, photovoice and solidarity group meetings for both knowledge generation and some collective actions, including a press conference, educational campaigns (workshops/interactive discussions and street dramas) and writing a letter of recommendations for the policy makers. The study provided the co-researchers with opportunities to advance their leadership role and address reintegration issues that the group identified by the group. The peer researchers were significantly involved in analyzing data and an Onion method was used to critically analyze what successful reintegration means. The study found the key challenges faced by survivors in their reintegration and they include: gender oppression, systemic enablers of oppression, social and religious exclusion and microaggressive behaviors. The study further identified the cumulative negative impacts of these reintegration issues on survivors including biological and physical trauma, emotional and psychological trauma, behavioral trauma, cognitive trauma and social trauma. Based upon what was learned in this study, an emerging theoretical reintegration practice model was developed that reflects a multi-layered and multi-faceted approach to promote reintegration of survivors. The emergence of a survivors-led action group, Community-based Action Research Group, was an important action outcome of the research. This study contributes to the exploration of new and potentially liberatory ways to address reintegration issues and promote transformative impacts.
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    Social support among older adults in group physical activity programs
    (Taylor and Francis, 2022-01) Zimmer, Chantelle; McDonough, Meghan H.; Hewson, Jennifer; Toohey, Ann M.; Din, Cari; Crocker, Peter R. E.; Bennett, Erica V.
    Group physical activity programs provide opportunities for older adults to receive social support, which is known to be positively associated with physical activity behavior in this population, but further research is needed to understand how this happens. The purpose of this study was to determine the social support needs and challenges experienced by older adults participating in group physical activity programs and identify social support functions and behaviors that enabled their engagement. Using interpretive description methodology, 16 field observations of classes, eight focus group discussions, and interviews with two participants who were unable to attend focus groups were conducted with adults aged 55 and older attending programs across four recreation facilities. Analysis of the data suggested that (a) there is a need for fostering social relationships in programs, which are imperative for receiving social support. Older adults in the programs supported other participants by (b) initiating their engagement in (more) physical activity, (c) helping them sustain their engagement in physical activity, (d) assisting them with recognizing successful engagement in physical activity, and (e) providing comfort and reassurance during difficult times. Social support behaviors that target older adults’ emotional and tangible needs may be most important for promoting and sustaining physical activity. Support provided by other older adults enhanced participants’ motivation and abilities to overcome obstacles, as well as enabled them to pursue opportunities for growth in their unique physical activity journeys.
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    Social support and body image in group physical activity programs for older women
    (Human Kinetics, 2022-07-23) Patterson, Michelle C.; McDonough, Meghan H.; Hewson, Jennifer; Culos-Reed, S. Nicole; Bennett, Erica
    Physical declines with aging may negatively impact women’s body image. Group physical activity can be a source of social support that may improve body image. We examined how social support experienced in group physical activity programs impact older women’s body image. Guided by interpretive description, 14 women aged 65 and older who participated in group physical activity classes were interviewed. While women experienced both positive and negative body image, body image was generally positively impacted by physical activity. Four themes described social support processes that affected body image in the physical activity context: fitting in and being inspired through identifying with others; what is discussed, and not discussed; providing comfort, understanding, and acceptance; and skilled and empathetic interactions with instructors. Understanding how social support in group physical activity can promote positive body image throughout aging can inform practical guidelines for facilitating and improving support in this context.
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    Social support and social barriers for participating in group physical activity among older women living alone
    (Taylor & Francis, 2023-06-27) Beselt, L. Jayne; McDonough, Meghan H.; Hewson, Jennifer; Din, Cari
    Older adults who live alone are more likely to experience social isolation. Physical activity (PA) provides an opportunity and purpose for participating socially, but there may be social barriers for this population. We examined experiences with social support, social connections, and social barriers related to participating in group PA among older adult women who live alone. Older adult women (n = 16; Mage = 66.9 years, the majority of whom were White) who live alone were interviewed, and data were thematically analysed. Perspectives on living alone varied, with some valuing the freedom of not accommodating another person, while others felt it hampered motivation. Group PA contexts could provide a community who would notice if something was wrong, motivation to leave the house, and a source of comparison for inspiration and benchmarking progress, but some experienced a lack of support and women varied in their perspectives on what supports met their needs. Barriers included challenges with engaging with unfamiliar social groups alone. Many discussed the perspective that they took responsibility for motivating their own PA. Living alone has varied advantages and challenges, and PA may fill support needs in this population. Programs should consider barriers such as the awkwardness of entering social situations alone, and structure classes to encourage social participation and opportunities for building closer connections for those who seek them.
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    Social supports and barriers for older adults not currently participating in group physical activity
    (Human Kinetics, 2023-08-14) Morrison, Lindsay; McDonough, Meghan H; Hewson, Jennifer; Toohey, Ann; Din, Cari; Kenny, Sarah J; Crocker, Peter
    Group physical activity can provide physical and social benefits; however, social barriers or a lack of social support may affect participation. This study examined social support needs and barriers among older adults who were not participating in group physical activities. Using interpretive description, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 38 older adults (M = 5 70.9 years; 81.6% women). Themes were grouped into two categories. Category one, expectations and initial impressions, consisted of: (1) groups cannot meet everyone's expectations or interests; (2) groups are intimidating to join; and (3) the need for inclusive programming. Category two, social processes within group physical activity, consisted of: (1) modelling physical activity behaviours; (2) sharing information and suggestions about physical activity opportunities; and (3) encouragement and genuine interest. Outreach to this population should aim to address these barriers and utilize these supportive behaviours to reduce feelings of intimidation and promote participation among older adults.
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    The Use of Forum Theatre as Therapy with At-risk Immigrant and Refugee Youth
    (2016) Ramdath, Karina; Este, David; Hewson, Jennifer; dela Cruz, Aniela
    How a youth experiences acculturation shapes the ability of immigrant and refugee youth to feel safe, included, and hopeful about their future. The purpose of this study is to deepen social workers’ understanding about integrating forum theatre as therapy with at-risk immigrant and refugee youth by exploring insights that arose from youths’ participation in forum theatre. To gain this understanding, this study was completed using the generic qualitative approach, interviewing six Calgary respondents about their time settling in Canada and about their participation in forum theatre. Findings suggest that forum theatre could be a useful intervention to generate dialogue and inspire personal or social change. Directions for future research include exploring gender constructions through forum theatre or investigating forum theatre as therapy within a social work setting or practice.
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    Visible Strengths: Older Women’s Resilience in the Context of Age Related Adversity
    (2017) Gulbrandsen, Carolyn; Walsh, Christine; Hewson, Jennifer; Lund, Darren; Marlett, Nancy; O'Connor, Deborah
    The objective of the qualitative study was to describe older women’s resilience according to women’s interpretations of their experiences and their understandings of resilience and adversity. The study combined constructivist grounded theory methodology and feminist PAR to create new knowledge about older women’s resilience. Both qualitative methodologies contributed to the study in unique, yet equally important ways. Constructivist grounded theory involved the use of systematic data collection and analysis methods to construct a theory about older women’s resilience and FPAR provided a framework of ethical principles and bridged the construction of new knowledge with social justice oriented action. Drawing from researcher reflexivity, this study explains how every aspect of the research process, including the implementation of constructivist grounded theory methods, was guided by FPAR principles. The constructivist grounded theory created from the researcher’s interpretations of participants’ experiences and the recommendations women formulated during the interviews and focus groups informed the action component of this study that is essential in FPAR. Constructivist grounded theory methodology guided the collection and analysis of data from interviews with 25 women ages 55-73 and from two focus groups. Intersectionality and critical feminist gerontology served as theoretical frameworks for examining the diversity of women’s experiences. The researcher interpreted women’s reflections on their experiences and identified a core category and a constellation of distinct yet interrelated categories, sub-categories and themes. The core category that described the experiences of the women in the study and their understanding of resilience was learning and cultivating wisdom in response to change. Study findings represented women’s diverse experiences and interpretations of change. Women in the study described how their resilience was related to distinct types of change, including identity related change, crisis, loss and significant experiences, how their learning has transformed into wisdom over the course of their lives, and how their resilience is bolstered by sources of scaffolding. The implications for practice described in the study are informed by participants’ recommendations and include valuing the significance of the meaning older women ascribe to their experiences and developing programs that provide sources of scaffolding identified by women in the study.