This study was designed to construct and test a structural equation modeling on specific domain health status and the Selection · Optimization · Compensation (SOC) strategy affecting successful aging in elderly people.

The model construction was based on the SOC model by Baltes and Baltes. Interviews were done with 201 elderly people aged 65 or older. Interview contents included demographics, functional health status, emotional health status, social health status, SOC strategies, and successful aging. Data were analyzed using SPSS 15.0 and AMOS 7.0.

Model fit indices for the modified model were GFI=.93, CFI=.94, and RMSEA=.07. Three out of 7 paths were found to have a significant effect on successful aging in this final model. Functional health status had a direct and positive effect on successful aging. Emotional health status influenced successful aging through SOC strategies.

This study suggests that interventions for improving functional health status and for strengthening SOC strategies are critical for successful aging. Continuous development of a variety of successful aging programs using SOC strategy is suggested.

This study was performed to compare the effects of standardized peristomal skin care (SPSC) and crusting technique (CT) on the peristomal skin of ostomates. SPSC was developed by a consensus among the expert group based on a comprehensive review of the relevant literature and hospital protocols.

A randomized controlled pilot trial with 2 parallel arms was used. A total of 81 ostomates, who were recruited from a tertiary hospital, completed the baseline, 1-month, 2-month, and 3-month follow-up (SPSC group, n=45; CT group, n=36). SPSC consisted of water cleansing and direct application of ostomy appliances. CT involved crusting hydrocolloid powder and patting with water sponge or protective barrier liquid film. The outcomes of the study were assessed by skin problems, such as discoloration, erosion and tissue overgrowth; the domains of the evaluation tool used in examining the peristomal skin. A generalized estimating equation model was used to examine the effects according to time and group.

In both SPSC and CT groups, the likelihood of occurrence of discoloration (OR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.61-2.46), erosion (OR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.55-2.25) and tissue enlargement (OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.36-2.77) increased with time. There was no significant difference in discoloration between the groups, whereas the probability of erosion (OR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.16-0.89) and tissue overgrowth (OR, 0.09; 95% CI, 0.02-0.55) was lower in the SPSC group than in CT group.

SPSC was sufficient in preventing peristomal skin problems of ostomates compared to the CT.