Engagement in meaningful, cognitive, and leisure activities has been shown to influence life satisfaction among older adults. This study examined these relationships in a cross-sectional survey of 134 community-dwelling older adults aged 60 years and above. Instruments included the Engagement in Meaningful Activities Survey (EMAS-12), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS-5), and Cognitive and Leisure Activities Scale (CLAS-16). Based on established scoring, EMAS engagement levels were categorised as low (<30), moderate (30–39), and high (≥40). Results indicated that 59% of participants reported moderate engagement, 26.1% high engagement, and 14.9% low engagement. Mean scores were EMAS 36.1 (SD = 7.44), SWLS 29.28 (SD = 3.77), and CLAS 40.41 (SD = 10.00). Correlation analysis revealed that EMAS was significantly associated with SWLS (r = 0.45, p < 0.001) and CLAS (r = 0.44, p < 0.001), while SWLS was also positively related to CLAS (r = 0.27, p = 0.002). Significant differences in engagement were found based on community activity involvement (p < 0.001), education level (p < 0.001), and occupation type (p < 0.001). A weak but significant negative correlation was observed between EMAS and age (r = –0.29, p < 0.001). These findings suggest that while life satisfaction among older adults was generally high, engagement in meaningful and cognitive-leisure activities was only moderate, highlighting the need for tailored, age-friendly interventions. This study addresses reviewer feedback by clarifying the cut-off points for engagement categories to enhance interpretability of results.

Driving is more than just a mode of transportation; for many older adults, it represents independence and freedom. This study aims to explore Malaysian older adults’ driving needs. In-depth interviews were conducted with eleven participants. The interviews were audio-recorded and analyzed using the six steps of thematic analysis with NVivo software aiding the process. Four main themes emerged from the data: daily routines, social leisure, caregiving responsibilities, and sense of freedom. To conclude, this study conveys important issues to policymakers in highlighting the need for driving among Malaysian older adults, thus promoting their safety and quality of life.

Frail older Muslims often struggle with Salah due to musculoskeletal issues, yet culturally tailored assessment tools are lacking. The Difficulty in Performing Physical Movements in Muslim Prayer (DIMAS) objectively evaluates physical challenges during prayer. This cross-sectional study assessed DIMAS’s reliability and clinical utility, analyzing internal consistency, test-retest reliability, Minimal Detectable Change (MDC), and Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID). Results showed excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.98), with MDC = 1.17 and MCID = 1.57. Internal consistency was low (α = 0.43), likely reflecting its multidimensional scope. DIMAS is reliable, clinically meaningful tool for assessing Salah-related physical limitations in frail older Muslims, aiding culturally sensitive care.

This paper presents a systematic bibliometric analysis of the research landscape at the intersection of Alzheimer's disease and gerontechnology, identifying key contributors, research hotspots, and emerging trends. Utilizing data from Scopus and Web of Science, the study applies tools such as VOSviewer and ScientoPy to analyze co-authorship networks, keyword occurrences, and citation trends. The results reveal growing contributions from global regions, particularly the U.S., Italy, and China, with increasing emphasis on assistive technologies and artificial intelligence for early diagnosis. However, significant gaps exist, especially in studies addressing long-term effectiveness and inclusivity across demographic groups. This landscape analysis provides crucial insights to guide future research on integrating technology into Alzheimer's care, underscoring the importance of a patient-centered approach for sustainable solutions.

Motivation is vital for recovery in schizophrenia, influencing treatment engagement and outcomes. Schizophrenia disrupts motivation, requiring an integrated approach to improve care. Understanding leisure activity patterns, including benefits and barriers, offers insights to enhance participation and well-being.This study examines factors influencing motivation in individuals with schizophrenia (SCZ), focusing on leisure activity patterns and the role of healthcare professionals. The study identified key themes: activity type, time, frequency, barriers, benefits, and motivation factors. Barriers like inadequate facilities and staff issues hindered participation, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions.

Sleep disturbances among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) could potentially be involved in a developmental sequence for children who are later diagnosed with ASD, according to some research. It has been revealed that this population has a greater prevalence of sleep disturbances than the overall population. Identifying sleep disturbances in children with ASD may raise awareness and improve the healthcare services provided to them. This study aims to identify the age factors that are correlated with sleep disturbance among ASD children. A cross-sectional study was undertaken involving 62 children with ASD, ranging in age from three to seventeen years, who participated in the research. The sleep disturbances were analyzed using the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC). Approximately 27 children (43.5%) had sleep disturbances, with difficulty initiating and maintaining sleep (DIMS) being the highest prevalence at 24 (38.7%). The subscales of sleep disturbances showed no correlation with age. However, there is a significant difference between age and total score of sleep disturbances (p<0.05). The incidence of sleep disturbances is notably increased among Malaysian children diagnosed with ASD, particularly with difficulty initiating and maintaining sleep (DIMS). There is also a significant difference between age and the overall score of sleep disturbances. This finding may therefore shed light on areas requiring attention from clinicians and caregivers of ASD children to address sleep disturbances.

Engagement in meaningful activities is associated with better physical and mental health among elderly individuals in the community. Such participation may delay age-related decline, reduce mortality, and minimise the need for long-term care. This study examined the relationship between engagement in meaningful activities and health status among community-dwelling elderly. A total of 134 participants aged 60 years and above completed the Engagement in Meaningful Activities Survey (EMAS-12) and the Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) using a cross-sectional design. Findings showed a moderate level of engagement, with significant positive correlations for physical health (r = 0.20, p = 0.02) and mental health (r = 0.24, p < 0.01). Group comparisons indicated significant differences in engagement based on education level (F = 11.88, p < 0.001), prior occupation (F = 5.29, p < 0.001), community participation (t = 3.28, p < 0.001), and geographic location (F = 3.67, p = 0.02). Higher engagement was reported among those with tertiary education, professional work backgrounds, active community involvement, and urban residence. In contrast, no significant differences were observed for gender, income, marital status, living arrangement, or ethnicity. Overall, the findings highlight those meaningful activities play a vital role in elderly health, and demographic factors must be considered when designing programmes to promote active ageing and well-being.

This observational study examined challenges during Dakon gameplay among typically developing children and those with ADHD. We aimed to describe skill-related difficulties and compare cognitive, behavioral, and motor performance. Thirty children (ages 6–12; 10 ADHD, 20 typical) completed sessions; observers used a checklist. Typical peers significantly outperformed children with ADHD across attention, rule use, social interaction, and fine-motor precision (all p < .001). ADHD participants showed shorter attention, more impulsivity, and poorer manipulation of pieces. Findings highlight need for targeted task/environment modifications to optimize therapeutic use of Dakon. Limitations include observational design and sample size.

This study explores key motivational elements that enhance participation in rehabilitation activities among individuals with schizophrenia in institutional settings. Using a meta-inference approach, data from a scoping review and interviews with patients, occupational therapists, and healthcare providers were synthesised. Eight core elements were identified: autonomy and choice, structure, relatedness, meaningful activity, variety, reinforcement, relevance, and feedback. These findings support the design of patient-centred interventions grounded in CBT, SDT, and SET. While limited to institutional settings, the study offers practical insights for improving engagement, and recovery outcomes and guiding future mental health programs and policy development.

The Traditional Congklak game, a popular activity in Indonesia, has potential benefits for enhancing fine motor skills in early childhood education. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Congklak game in improving fine motor skills among early childhood education students. Materials and methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with children from four Early Childhood Education schools in Sawangan, Depok, West Java, Indonesia. Participants underwent pretest and posttest assessments to measure fine motor skills before and after the intervention. Results: The analysis of pretest and posttest scores revealed a statistically significant improvement in fine motor skills following the intervention, indicating the effectiveness of the Traditional Congklak game in enhancing these skills. Conclusion: The findings support the integration of play-based occupational therapy principles in early childhood education, highlighting the importance of personalized approaches to skill development. Despite limitations such as a small sample size and a short intervention period, the study concludes that the Traditional Congklak game can be a valuable tool for improving fine motor skills in early childhood settings. Future research should explore the long-term effects and broader demographic contexts to enhance the generalizability of the findings.

Malaysia faces a pressing issue as its older population is projected to reach 16% by 2030. While global and national initiatives focus on health and independence, there exists a gap in structured activities for older persons. Our study introduces MyHOeME, a 5-week program designed by an occupational therapist, which addresses the physical, cognitive, and social facets of ageing through personalized activities. This quasi-experimental study involved 78 older persons in the community. The results indicate a significantly enhanced health-related quality of life after attending MyHOeME, emerging as a promising solution for the well-being of Malaysia's ageing population.

Radiographers are professionals tasked with operating equipment emitting radiation, such as X-rays and Computer Tomography (CT). The focus on their Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) concerning Radiation Protection (RP) establishes a significant and imperative study area. This study endeavours to comprehensively investigate the KAP of RP among Radiographers in the Government Hospital in Tai'an City, aiming to explore correlations with various demographic and professional factors. In conclusion, the study asserts that myriad factors distinctly influence the KAP of RP among radiographers in the government hospital in Tai'an City.

Introduction: Retirees undergo role transition after leaving their job. Hence, occupational therapists may assess retirees’ roles to identify their current roles’ satisfaction and anticipation. As Malaysian culture and language differed from the origin of the Role Checklist, this study aimed to translate and validate the Role Checklist into the Malay version cross-culturally. Methodology: A forward–backwards translation was conducted, followed by pilot testing among 9 experts and 20 retirees. A cross-sectional study was done among 122 Malaysian retirees to identify the translated instrument’s test–retest reliability, discriminant and convergent validity. Findings: The Role Checklist – Malay achieved almost perfect Average Content Validity Index (0.95–0.98) and Average Face Validity Index (0.92–0.96), good to excellent test–retest reliability with intraclass correlation coefficients = 0.654–0.976, and moderate to perfect agreement of Cohen’s kappa (0.620–1.00). Additionally, there were significant differences in the total number of roles ( p < 0.001) and total desired future roles ( p < 0.001) between retirees living in the community and institution. The total number of roles was positively correlated with the SWLS – Malay ( r s = 0.593, p < 0.001), EQ-5D-3L – Malay ( r s = 0.366, p < .001) and MSPSS – Malay ( r s = 0.314, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The Role Checklist – Malay was a valid and reliable instrument among Malaysian retirees.

Malaysia anticipates its elderly population will reach 15% by 2030, posing a significant challenge. Despite the worldwide and national emphasis on health and well-being, a gap exists in structured activities for elderly. The WeCare Program addresses this by offering an occupation-based, culturally tailored approach aimed at improving the engagement and well-being of older Malaysians. Conducted by occupational therapists across six districts in Kelantan, this program involved 30 elderly participants and was evaluated over six weeks. The results indicate that the program was highly accepted (M=4.94; SD=0.22), appropriate (M=4.85; SD= 0.20), and feasible (M=4.88; SD=0.33) for implementation among the target population.

This qualitative study aims to explore the motivational factors in adherence among the elderly with diabetes and hypertension from the perspectives of patients and health professionals in China. Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts unveiled eight master themes, including vicarious experiences, health beliefs, self-efficacy, feedback on health outcomes, the desire for improved health and longevity, understanding of diseases, perceived personal deterioration in health conditions, external regulation, and support. This study emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies that align with the motivations of older individuals facing the dual challenges of diabetes and hypertension in China.

The objective of this qualitative study is to explore the barriers to self-management among older people with hypertension and diabetes in institutional settings from the perspectives of both patients and health professionals in China. A qualitative phenomenological study used semi-structured face-to-face interviews involving eight older persons and ten health professionals. Thematic analysis revealed two main themes: 1) individual-related factors and 2) limited social support. Tailored interventions considering these multifaceted barriers can positively impact the quality of life and health outcomes for older individuals dealing with hypertension and diabetes in institutional settings.

In recent years, recognition of motivational deficits in individuals with schizophrenia has grown, leading to increased exploration of non-pharmacological interventions in mental health. This review maps the literature on such treatments targeting motivational impairments in schizophrenia, aiming to identify gaps and suggest future research directions. The review identified 16 articles out of 80, predominantly randomized controlled trials. Various interventions, including cognitive training, behavioral programs, and mobile apps, have been identified to enhance motivation in this population. Despite limitations, the review provides a comprehensive overview and establishes a foundation for further research in enhancing motivation interventions for schizophrenia.

INTRODUCTION:There is a global increase in the ageing population, and Malaysia is expected to become an ageing country. As elderly individuals experience deterioration in physical and cognitive functions, they often require longterm care from caregivers. This study aims to investigate the reasons why caregivers provide care for older adults at home.MATERIALS AND METHODS:A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed, and semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with 12 caregivers. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns and themes in the data.RESULTS:Four master themes emerged from the analysis of the reasons for providing care to the older person by caregivers: personal factors needed by the elderly, personal factors of the caregivers, support from family members and friends, and environmental factors. Caregivers were motivated by the medical conditions of the older person, caregivers' sense of duty, and the desire to repay their elderly for their past care. Additionally, religious beliefs also played a role in motivating caregivers. Financial stability, knowledge and experience in caregiving, and the absence of other suitable caregivers were additional factors influencing caregiving decisions. Caregivers received support from family members, friends and sometimes hired help.CONCLUSION:Cultural values, religious beliefs, and gender roles influence caregiving attitudes, emphasising the need for comprehensive understanding. Invaluable findings highlight the pressing need to comprehend the intricate dynamics, informing the development of tailored support systems. The study reveals that caregiving at home for the elderly is shaped by personal, social and environmental factors. Insight into these dynamics is crucial for robust support systems. By addressing the dimensions of caregiving, policymakers, healthcare professionals and society can better support caregivers in their essential role.

Driving has been recognised as the primary form of personal transportation across the adult lifespan. This study explores the requirements needed for older people to drive in Malaysia. In-depth interviews were conducted with six participants. The interviews were digitally audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using the six steps of thematic analysis. Three main themes emerged from the data: "Good health," "Driving-specific skills," and "Positive driving style." To conclude, this study conveys a crucial subject matter to policymakers and healthcare professionals in highlighting the requirement older people need to drive safely and thus improve our country's elderly workforce.