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The number of African Americans age 65 years and older with end stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis (HD) has increased substantially over the past decade in the U. S. While older adults are faced with the effects of aging on their physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being, their health is complicated when a chronic illness such as ESRD is involved. The purpose of this study was to explore the African American older adult's experience of living with ESRD and undergoing HD. Sixteen participants were interviewed in a qualitative, descriptive approach with thematic analysis. Findings from this study revealed two major themes and four subthemes. The two major themes were independence- dependence and adherence-nonadherence. The four subthemes included financial difficulties, social support, physical/emotional toll, and spiritual resource/reserves. Healthcare professionals can utilize this information to assist older African Americans in managing their illness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research scrutinises the strategies that three of South Africa's largest mainstream media companies, namely, Media24, Independent News and Media, and Arena Holdings use to attract younger audiences, particularly Generation Z. The main question under focus is: Are South African media companies innovating adequately in their news media content and platforms to attract young audiences? The research examines the issue from both the discourses of the digital news editors of the media companies and a sample of young people interviewed about their news consumption. The rationale for this study is that Generation Z as active users of the various forms of the media have the potential to influence the way in which the media package and disseminate news. Therefore, it is important to study this rising segment of audiences as young people's consumption behaviour and spending patterns shape the businesses of media institutions to adjust their news strategies quickly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical activity (PA) is a significant determinant of health exerting a positive influence on all body systems. Barriers to engaging in routine PA persist as one of the greatest obstacles to improved health outcomes. African American women (AAW) have a greater risk of morbidity and mortality related to physical inactivity and 61% are physically inactive or sedentary. The purpose of this pilot study was to assess perceived barriers to PA specific to AAW. Participants responded to a newly developed 25-item barrier to PA questionnaire developed by the principal investigator (PI). This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study utilizing a convenience sample of 30 AAW who frequented community centers. The average barrier scores were low to moderate. Those barriers scoring highest were "I don't have the energy (too tired) to exercise" (43.3%), "I do not enjoy exercise" (36.7%), "I cannot afford a gym membership or exercise clothing" (33.3%), and "I do not know the amount or type of exercise necessary for good health" (33.3%). Developing culturally appropriate, gender specific strategies to eliminate barriers to PA for AAW is a cost-effective method for mitigating the detrimental effects of physical inactivity related chronic disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]