Although there are multiple pathways to successful aging, little is known of what it means to age successfully among black women. There is a growing body of literature suggesting that black women experience a number of social challenges (sexism and racism) that may present as barriers to aging successfully. Applying aspects of the Strong Black Women ideal, into theoretical concepts of successful aging, may be particularly relevant in understanding which factors impair or promote the ability of black women to age successfully. The Strong Black Women archetype is a culturally salient ideal prescribing that black women render a guise of self-reliance, selflessness, and psychological, emotional, and physical strength. Although this ideal has received considerable attention in the behavioral sciences, it has been largely absent within the gerontology field. Nevertheless, understanding the dynamics of this cultural ideal may enhance our knowledge while developing an appreciation of the black woman's ability to age successfully. Rather than summarize the social, physical, and mental health literature focusing on health outcomes of black women, this conceptual review examines the Strong Black Women archetype and its application to the lived experiences of black women and contributions to current theories of successful aging. Focusing on successful aging exclusively among black women enhances our understanding of this group by considering their identity as women of color while recognizing factors that dictate their ability to age successfully.

How satisfied a patient is with their medical treatment may influence compliance and adherence to medical regimens. While a number of studies have examined patient satisfaction among younger populations, few have determined the impact social factors have on satisfaction with pain treatment among older adults. This study aimed to determine the influence discrimination, trust, communication, and other health characteristics have on satisfaction with pain treatment among older adults receiving outpatient services from a comprehensive cancer center. Participants were surveyed on questions assessing pain symptomatology, and identified social (discrimination, trust, and communication), physical (comorbidities, pain interference), behavioral (self-efficacy), and demographic characteristics. Analyses were calculated to determine the total and indirect effects of trust, communication, and self-efficacy as mediators on the perceived discrimination-patient satisfaction with pain treatment relationship. Data showed a significant relationship of communication and discrimination on patient satisfaction. However, none of the mediating effects were significant. It must be recognized that patient satisfaction is contingent upon a myriad of social factors that are not exclusive, but rather coexisting determinants of health. Particularly among the elderly, perceived discrimination and incidences of poor communication may be significant influences on health and the lived day-to-day experiences of this adult population.

Objective The aim of this study was to understand the relationships among depressive symptoms, cognition, and functional performance in a community-based sample of older adults. Method Older adults (N=885) from the Staying Keen in Later Life study completed tests of executive function, speed of processing, and memory. The Center for Epidemiological Depression Scale assessed depressive symptoms. The Timed Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Test assessed participants’ everyday functional performance. Results Depressive symptoms had significant associations with measures of executive function, speed of processing, memory, and everyday functional performance. Cognitive performance completely mediated the association between depressive symptoms and everyday function. Discussion Among community-dwelling older adults, depressive symptoms were associated with impaired cognition across multiple domains, which detrimentally affected everyday function. Healthcare providers should be aware of these associations to monitor and manage changes in depressive symptoms and cognitive performance and thereby potentially mitigate functional decline.

Results indicate that speed of processing training may improve everyday cognitive performance among older adults with HF. Future studies should investigate the longitudinal effects of cognitive training with HF patients.