bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IS YOUR COMMUNITY-BASED HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAM EVIDENCE BASED AND READY FOR DISSEMINATION? HERE’S HOW TO FIND OUT
Authors: Schneider Ellen C , Steinman Lesley , Dicocco Casey
Published: November 2019

Evidence-based programs (EBPs) offer proven ways to promote health and prevent disease among older adults in their communities. EBPs are based on rigorous study of the effects of specific interventions or model programs, demonstrate consistently positive changes in important health-related and functional measures, and have tools in place to maintain program access, quality, and efficiency across diverse settings. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention (UNC HPDP), in partnership with the Evidence-Based Leadership Collaborative (EBLC), has established a review process and Review Council to identify new community programs that meet the evidence-based program criteria established by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), one of the chief U.S. federal agencies responsible for aging programs. Approved programs are then eligible for Older Americans Act Title III-D and other discretionary funding to support organizations that deliver EBPs to improve older adult health. The review process assesses the effectiveness, outcomes, and evaluation of the program, information about program implementation, training, and other key elements for successful program dissemination. The Review Council consists of national leaders with expertise in program research, evaluation, and implementation. The review process is supported by the ACL-funded National Chronic Disease Self-Management Education and Falls Prevention Resource Centers. This session will describe the ACL evidence-based health promotion program criteria that must be met for approval; an overview of the review process; and how researchers can submit their programs for review. Time will be allowed for questions, discussion, and research to practice implications.
COLLABORATIVE AGING RESEARCH USING TECHNOLOGY: NEW PATHWAYS FORWARD
Authors: Kaye Jeffrey , Beattie Zachary , Sharma Nicole , Riley Thomas , Silbert Lisa , Barnes Lisa , Czaja Sarah , Dodge Hiroko
Published: November 2019

A profusion of technologies and protocols have been developed to more effectively assess and deliver care to older adults with cognitive impairment, challenged health and declining function. These technologies take advantage of important developments in sensing and pervasive computing, wearable technologies, mobile and wireless communications, and “big data” analytics. Despite great promise challenges remain to realizing their full potential and achieving wider uptake and dissemination in research and practice. This presentation will review and provide an overview of major technologies, their integration, and their use-cases, as well as key challenges present in the current landscape. The presentation will highlight ongoing developments addressing these challenges with particular attention to the Collaborative Aging Research using Technology (CART) initiative supported by the NIH and VA, an initiative directed toward providing an open technology research platform to be used by diverse investigators across the U.S. to facilitate and improve aging research using technology.
THE GUT MICROBIOME AND AGING
Authors: Carter Christy S , Masternak Michal , Buford Thomas W
Published: November 2019

The human intestinal tract (i.e., “gut”) is inhabited by over 100 trillion microorganisms; including over 1000 species of known bacteria. These organisms have co-evolved with humans over millennia to live together for mutual benefit. Though long overlooked in considerations of human health and disease treatment, gut microorganisms are highly involved in numerous metabolic reactions which influence normal host physiology. A variety of biologic, medical, and lifestyle factors appear to contribute to gut dysbiosis in late-life, and interventions specifically designed to target these factors may be useful in restoring microbial balance. Evidence from both clinical and preclinical studies suggests that gut dysbiosis is related to age-related inflammation as well as age-related conditions including frailty, Alzheimer’s disease, and perhaps even longevity. Crosstalk between the gut and multiple organ systems (brain, heart, muscle etc.) may lead to the development of age-related diseases and loss of physiological function, although the signals are not well understood. In this symposium we address the broad topic of the Gut Microbiome and Aging by presenting evidence from multiple model systems (mice, rats and monkeys) and provide a forum to discuss critical areas of research for moving forward.
TRANSGENIC MOUSE MODELS OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Authors: Henry-Smith Charnae A , Han Xianlin
Published: November 2019

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. Alzheimer’s is characterized by an increase in Aβ plaques , and tau tangles. Neurons in the brain have axons covered in myelin sheath that connect microglia and astrocytes. The myelin sheath is composed of about 70% lipid composition; Sulfatide contributing to 30% overall. Sulfatide changes the morphology of primary microglia to their activated form. To study the role of microglia activation and sulfatide levels, three different mouse models were created: APP KI mice, CST Whole Body Ko mice, and cCST (conditional) KO. In order to create the genotype of the APP KI mice, a breeding mouse line was created. The APP KI gene had to be introduced in Plp1-Cre and cCST KO crossed mice to receive a working mouse model. During the duration of breeding for the APP KI mice, a preliminary experiment was performed on the CST KO mice. These mice were given the PLX3397 diet with the aim to remove the microglia and to see the effect of Aβ plaques. The PLX3397 will reduce the microglia targeting the CSF1R. After consuming the diet, the mice were harvested to collect tissues from the brain and spinal cord. Lipidomics and immunohistology were performed. In conclusion, we will continue the breeding of the CST flox/flox / Plp1-Cre / APP KI mice, and the drug dosage and treatment to be used in our APP KI mice will be based on preliminary data from our CST mice.
PERCEPTIONS OF PERPETRATORS OF AGEISM
Authors: Chasteen Alison L , Horhota Michelle , Crumley-Branyon Jessica
Published: November 2019

What are the consequences for perpetrators who engage in different types of ageism? We compared young (n=316), middle-aged (n=464), and older adults’ (n=273) perceptions of a perpetrator who engaged in an ageist action. Participants read a vignette about a pedestrian (the perpetrator) offering unwanted help to an older woman crossing the street. We manipulated the ageism type (benevolent or hostile), the reaction of the older target (acceptance, moderate confrontation or strong confrontation) and assessed the overall impression of the perpetrator. Main effects emerged for Ageism Type and Age Group. Overall, participants rated the perpetrator more positively in the benevolent condition compared to the hostile condition. Middle-aged and older adults rated the perpetrator more positively than young adults did. A Time x Confront interaction suggested that the perpetrator’s overall impression was not impacted when the target of the ageist act accepted the action or moderately confronted the perpetrator. In contrast, when the target confronted the perpetrator strongly, the overall impression of the perpetrator decreased. An Ageism Type x Age Group x Time interaction on overall impression also emerged. There were no age differences when the perpetrator committed a hostile act of ageism. In contrast, in the benevolent condition young and older adults perceived the perpetrator more negatively after the target’s reaction, whereas middle-aged adults did not adjust their impression. Taken together, these results suggest that young and older adults may be less accepting of benevolent ageism compared to middle-aged adults.
INVESTIGATING THE ROLE OF AHR IN MEDIATING SEX DIFFERENCES OF AGING MACROPHAGES
Authors: Navar Evelyn , Benayoun Bérénice A , Sampathkumar Nirmal , Chae Jisoo
Published: November 2019

“Inflamm-aging” describes a state of chronic low-grade inflammation which occurs with age in the absence of infection. This process is related to many chronic age-related diseases. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ahr), is a transcription factor that is thought to decrease inflammation, and decrease of Ahr with aging only in females was previously observed in a macrophage RNA-seq with aging. Based on this, I hypothesized that 1) Ahr expression will decrease with age in female cells; and 2) phagocytic activity and Ahr expression in macrophages will increase when exposed to estrogens (E2). To test these hypotheses, Ahr signaling was quantified by RT-qPCR in aging male and female mice BMDMs, and in macrophages that were treated with E2. I also performed a phagocytosis assay on macrophages treated with E2. I found a significant downregulation of Ahr in old female BMDMs. Ahrr (Ahr Repressor) was significantly downregulated in both old female and males with aging. Arnt (Ahr Nuclear Translocator) did not significantly change with aging. The qPCR performed on the E2 treated cells showed no significant trend for Ahr regulation. Finally, the phagocytosis assay revealed an overall increase in phagocytosis activity in cells treated with estrogen. Our hypotheses were supported by data showing a decrease in Ahr expression with age and increase in phagocytosis activity in estrogen treated cells. The RT-qPCR results for the E2 treated cells did not support our hypothesis, but could stem from a relatively short exposure time for estrogen.
YOUNG ADULTS STEREOTYPE OLDER SPEAKERS WHO ADOPTED A POWER POSE AS LESS COMPETENT COMPARED TO SUBMISSIVE OR CONTROL
Authors: Turner Jennifer R , Stanley Jennifer T
Published: November 2019

Young adults (YA) frequently endorse age stereotypes (Levy, 2009). We examined whether older adult (OA) speakers influenced by embodied-cognition (“power posing”; Cuddy et al., 2015) would reduce YAs’ stereotype-related judgments. Following the Stereotype Content Model (SCM; Fiske et al., 2002), we hypothesized that OA who held a power pose prior to giving their speech would be rated as higher in Competency, Performance, and Electability, but not Warmth. Sixty-three YA viewed and rated 9 videos of OA performing speeches after modeling a pose (power, submissive, control). Within-subjects ANOVAs revealed embodiment condition differences for Performance (F2,124 = 207.76, ηp2 = .77). For ratings of Performance, speakers in the power condition were judged worse than either submissive or control (ps < .001). For Warmth ratings, power (M = 4.81, SD = .62) was worse than control (M = 5.07, SD = .89, p = .003, d = .34), but submissive (M = 4.97, SD = .87) was not significantly different from either group. These results suggest that YA may judge the Performance and Warmth of OA who adopted a power pose harsher because OA are not supposed to be powerful or adopt expansive postures (consistent with the SCM). In comparison, YA may be drawing upon the Representativeness Heuristic of OA in positions of power (e.g., Senators) when rating Electability and Competence.
DETERMINING THE PREVALENCE OF SARCOPENIA IN AN INPATIENT GERIATRIC POPULATION USING EWGSOP2 OR FNIH DEFINITIONS
Authors: Scholl Matthew M , Volpi Elena , Deer Rachel R
Published: November 2019

Sarcopenia has been recognized as a progressive and generalized skeletal muscle disorder leading to loss of strength, muscle mass, and function. It is associated with an increased likelihood of adverse outcomes like falls, fractures, physical disability, and mortality. International consensus groups continue providing new definitions and clinical cut-off points despite over a decade of work in this area. Thus, the purpose of this research was to determine the prevalence of sarcopenia using two of the most current operational definitions (Foundation of NIH Sarcopenia Project (FNIH) and the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older Persons 2 (EWGSOP2)). Our cohort of acutely hospitalized older adults was formed from combining data from two randomized controlled trials and one cross-sectional observational study. Testing during hospitalization included measures of: demographics, body composition (DEXA), physical function tests, psychological wellbeing and independence questionnaires, and chart review. These were used to analyze the cohort according to three main groupings of low physical performance, low muscle strength, and low lean mass. We compared multiple tests and cutoffs for each of the three groupings under the FNIH and EWGSOP2 definitions, which varied 3% for low lean mass up to 48% for tests of low physical performance. After examining the efficacy of each cutoff, we evaluated the differences between FNIH and EWGSOP2. In our cohort, the prevalence of sarcopenia was 15.79% by EWGSOP2 and 13.59% by FNIH. The groupings within FNIH and EWGSOP2 were found to be near identical across almost all measures despite the definitions’ discrepancies in cutoff points.
THE PREVALENCE OF ORTHOSTATIC HYPOTENSION AMONG HOSPITALIZED OLDER ADULTS AT RISK FOR FALLING
Authors: Lyons Denise L , Schell Kathleen
Published: November 2019

Orthostatic hypotension (OH) may cause falls in hospitalized older adults. OH is a sustained drop of at least 20 mm Hg for systolic blood pressure or at least 10 mm Hg for diastolic blood pressure when changing position from supine to sitting, sitting to standing, or supine to standing. A recent systematic review revealed an inconsistent relationship between OH and falls. Orthostatic vital signs (OVS) measurement is often included in fall prevention initiatives. Some experts suggest that the time required to collect OVS and the possibility of measurement inaccuracy by nurses make this bedside screening unnecessary. The study aims were to determine: 1) the prevalence of OH, 2) if those older adults with documented OH experienced falls, and 3) the influence of medications known to be associated with OH and falls. Medication categories included antihypertensives, dopamine agonists, antipsychotics and antidepressants. A retrospective chart review was conducted on a convenience sample of 8,474 older adults on two Acute Care of the Elderly units at a large health system in the mid-Atlantic between 2015 and 2018. Results were determined using contingency tables and Chi-square analysis. More complex relationships were pursued using log linear models. The overall OH prevalence was 46.9% at some point during their hospital stay. Over the three years, 68 patients of whom 62% were hypotensive (p=.034). There was no statistical association of OH with medications or co-morbidities. The results demonstrate that although prevalent in almost half of this sample, orthostatic hypotension did not lead to falls.
THE IMPACT OF NEIGHBORHOOD CONNECTEDNESS ON LIFE SATISFACTION AND SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCES ACROSS THREE AGE GROUPS.
Authors: Fogle Stephen J , Kelly Christopher M
Published: November 2019

This study operationalized the third dimension of Rowe & Khan’s Successful Aging model, social engagement, as neighborhood connectedness. We examined 2820 older adults in the MIDUS III dataset to assess the impact of neighborhood connectedness on life satisfaction and daily spiritual experiences. A composite scale for neighborhood connectedness (Cronbach = .745) was created. Linear regression analysis was undertaken for life satisfaction on daily spiritual experience, neighborhood connectedness, neighborhood environment and age controlling for gender, co-habitation, income, and disability. Regression analysis was also conducted for daily spiritual experience on the same variables. Analysis for each outcome variable was run three times to explore changes across three age groups of older adults (55-69, 70-85, and 86-100). Results of regression analysis found frequency of daily spiritual experience was a substantial and significant predictor of life satisfaction for all age groups (β= .211, β= .191, β= .208) Additionally, regression analysis revealed a higher level of neighborhood connectedness was the most powerful predictor of daily spiritual experience across all age groups (β= .329, β= .312, β= .327) This study demonstrates the applicability of operationalizing the Successful Aging model’s social engagement dimension as neighborhood connectedness. This study also contributes evidence of the impact of daily spiritual experience on life satisfaction. Finally, the study supplies promising new evidence linking neighborhood connectedness with spiritual well-being.
MEASURING THE EFFECTS OF A CYCLING PROGRAM ON QUALITY OF LIFE OF OLDER ADULTS LIVING IN LONG TERM CARE
Authors: Cotnam Victoria , Zecevic Aleksandra
Published: November 2019

Cycling Without Age (CWA) is a program offered in long-term care (LTC) homes around the world that allows older adults who are unable to ride a bicycle the pleasure of a bike ride again. Two residents sit in the front bench seat of a trishaw, and a volunteer bike pilot pedals the bike. A variety of anecdotal benefits have been reported and no study has rigorously measured the effects of this program. The purpose of this research is to measure the effects of the CWA program on happiness and quality of life of LTC home residents, through observation of an existing program in a Canadian LTC home. A total of 24 residents were purposefully recruited in a biking group (n=23) who were biked twice a week for 12 weeks, and a strolls group (n=16) who went for outdoors walks or wheelchair rides for the same period of time. Data on pain, cognition, social engagement, and aggressive behaviour was harvested from the Resident-Assessment Instrument – Minimum Data Set (RAI-MDS). Happiness was measured pre and post all bike rides and strolls using a visual analogue scale, and the LTC QoL assessment was used to assess QOL. Findings show that biking group scored higher on happiness after bike rides compared to before, as well as compared to strolls. Bike group QOL scores are higher at the end of the 12 weeks than were strolls group. In summary, CWA shows potential to increase QOL and happiness of residents living in LTC.
KEY LEARNING FOR TWELVE UNECOM MEDICAL STUDENTS IMMERSED FOR 48 HOURS IN AN ACUTE CARE HOSPICE HOME DURING 2017-18
Authors: Tamimie Emily , Gugliucci Marilyn R
Published: November 2019

Introduction: Most US medical schools are not able to provide practical experiences in end-of-life or palliative care. The University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine Learning by Living 48 Hour Hospice Home Immersion (HHI) Project provides intense learning for second through fourth year medical students. Students are immersed into an acute care 18-bed in-patient hospice home for 48 hours to provide patient care, family support, and post-mortem. Students work with an Interprofessional staff team and independently. Methods: The HHI utilizes qualitative ethnographic/autobiographic research designs. Two key research questions include: (1) What is it like for ME to live in the Hospice Home for 48 hours? and (2) What will I take from this experience to my future as a practitioner?” Each student writes a journal during the three research stages; pre-fieldwork; fieldwork; post-fieldwork. Twelve 2nd year medical student journals randomly selected from 2017-18 immersions (N=24) were analyzed 5/2019-7/2019. Detailed qualitative manual and content analysis utilizing established interrater-reliability procedures were conducted on 300+ pages of data (UNECOM Morgane Student Research Fellowship). Results: Of the many themes identified, three key themes were notable for all 12 students for question one: Religion/Spirituality; Acceptance; and Reactions to Death. Key takeaways for question two included being: (a) able to have conversations about death; (b) at peace with death; (c) present with death, and knowing death is a part of life. Conclusion: Each student experienced his/her immersion differently, but all expressed this was a life-altering project providing critical education on hospice and end-of life care.
HOW ARE SOCIAL ISOLATION AND LONELINESS RELATED TO COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING AMONG CHINESE OLDER ADULTS?
Authors: Yang Rumei , Wang Haocen , Tracy Eunjin L , Edelman Linda S , Sward Katherine , Demiris George , Donaldson Gary
Published: November 2019

Older adults have increased risk of social isolation, loneliness, and cognitive functioning decline, but the relationships among these factors are not conclusive. We used the 2011 and 2012 waves of the harmonized China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study to: 1) measure the association between social isolation and cognitive functioning among Chinese older adults within their cultural context, and 2) investigate the potential mediation mechanism of loneliness on this association. Specifically, we applied a multiple indicator multiple cause approach to determine whether the construct of social isolation is well defined by four indicators (social activity engagement, weekly adult children contact, caregiving for grandchildren, and living alone). We used structural equation modeling to examine the direct and indirect effects among variables of interest. The results demonstrated that three indicators of social isolation were significantly associated with cognitive functioning (β =-0.26 to -0.28, all ps<0.05). The indirect effect of social isolation on cognitive functioning through loneliness was significant (β = -0.15, p<0.05), indicating loneliness was an important mediator. After controlling for the indirect effect of loneliness, the direct effect of social isolation on cognitive functioning remained significant (β =-0.83, p<0.05), suggesting a partial mediation effect. Our study confirms that social isolation contributes to cognitive functioning decline among Chinese older adults and that loneliness plays a mediating role. The findings suggest maintaining social relations and coping with feelings of loneliness are beneficial to older adults’ cognitive functioning.
SEX IN NURSING HOMES? A PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS OF INTERVIEWS WITH COMMUNITY-DWELLING ADULTS
Authors: Spalding Rachael , Katz Emma , Edelstein Barry
Published: November 2019

Most older adults living in long-term care settings (LTCs) indicate that expressing their sexuality is important to them (Doll, 2013). However, negative views of late-life sexuality persist in the United States (Robinson & Molzahn, 2007), particularly among nursing staff in LTCs. Staff often express discomfort regarding residents’ sexual lives (Bouman, Arcelus, & Benbow, 2007), despite the fact that LTCs are residents’ homes where private behaviors such as sexual activity might be expected to occur. Little is known about the general public’s attitudes towards sexual behaviors in LTCs. Attitudes of LTC residents’ family members is particularly important, as they are most likely to visit residents and to care about their quality of life, in turn informing facility policies and management. In this study, we took preliminary steps toward gathering this information by focusing on attitudes of community-dwelling adults. Using an iterative approach, we conducted semi-structured interviews with community-dwelling adults (n = 9; age range = 18 – 65 years) regarding their beliefs about romantic relationships and sexual behaviors among LTC residents. Major themes were identified through thematic content analysis. Participants indicated favorable attitudes towards residents’ sexual expression as a means of combatting loneliness and fostering emotional intimacy. Other themes included residents’ rights to privacy, potential risks of sexual behavior, and the need to consider how individuals may differ in their ability to consent to sexual activity. This data is intended to inform the development of a measurement tool for use with LTC residents’ family members.
EASILY ACCESSIBLE EVALUATIVE INFORMATION COULD FACILITATE OLDER ADULTS’ (BUT NOT ALL) TRUSTWORTHINESS JUDGEMENT
Authors: Chen Linlin , Zhang Xin
Published: November 2019

Facial appearance served great function in social interactions, especially for older adults in making trustworthiness judgements. Previous literatures have consistently shown that when making trustworthiness judgements older adults tended to rely more on facial cues rather than behaviors, due to declines in cognition. However, one question remains unsolved, whether older adults could make accurate trustworthiness judgements if evaluative information (with minimal memory load) is easily accessible. Sixty younger adults (YAs) and sixty older adults (OAs) were recruited, and asked to make investment decisions for different brokers in ninety-six trials. In each trial, brokers’ facial appearance (trustworthy and untrustworthy looking) and different behavioral evaluative information (good: Ninety percent positive evaluations, neutral: Fifty percent positive evaluations, bad: Ninety percent negative evaluations) were displayed simultaneously on screen to facilitate investment decisions. Brokers’ facial appearances and behaviors were set to be independent to each other. The results indicated that YAs’ and the majority of OAs’ proportions of correct investment increase, gradually reaching a stable high correction rate, although OAs needed more trials than did YAs. The findings extended prior work by suggesting that both OAs and YAs had similar abilities to distinguish different brokers according to easily accessible evaluative information. However, and surprisingly, a small subgroup of OAs (with low economic status) still had a lower correction rate even after ninety-six trials, suggesting that they could not distinguish brokers based on their evaluations at all, who might be at risk for fraud.
LANGUAGE DIFFERENCE AS A PREDICTOR OF OUTPATIENT FOLLOW-UP AMONG MIDLIFE SPANISH-SPEAKING PATIENTS
Authors: Jimenez Daniel , Figiel Steven , Moxley Jerad , Radusky Pablo , Durand Dante
Published: November 2019

The purpose of this study is to determine if psychiatrists’ level of Spanish proficiency impacts patient adherence with follow-up mental health care. We hypothesize that increased Spanish proficiency will increase the likelihood of follow up mental health care. Data were collected via retrospective chart review of Spanish-speaking patients at an adult outpatient center. Our final sample included 201 patients with an average age of 46.5 years. Spanish speaking ability of the clinician was categorized using the standard set by the US Census bureau. The dependent variable of presence or absence of follow-up was dichotomized to whether or not the patient came back for a visit within 6 months of initial evaluation. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for each independent variable. Results indicate that Spanish proficiency significantly predicted a follow-up visit. Additionally, patients who were married and those who received psychotherapy were more likely to have a repeat visit. The significance of these results lies in that most research up to date has focused on the English proficiency of the patient as a factor for decreased use of mental health services. Although, effective strategies have been designed to reduce the language barrier in mental health care, Spanish-speaking patients still express a strong preference for bilingual providers. These results may allow identifying which patients are at higher risk of not adhering with follow-up visits. This provides a possibility to anticipate and prevent dropouts from treatment and to implement strategies to support patients that experience a greater burden of social and psychiatric disadvantages.
FALL PREVENTION PROGRAMS FOR RURAL COMMUNITY DWELLING OLDER ADULTS RESULTS IN IMPROVED BALANCE
Authors: McAtee Robin E , Chernoff Ronni , Packard Kathryn , Thomasson Whitney , Spradley Laura , Mercado Cynthia
Published: November 2019

More than one in four older adults (OA) in the US fall each year and 20 to 30% suffer moderate to severe injuries such as head trauma or hip fractures. Falls are both a medical and financial burden that can be significantly reduced by lifestyle interventions. One of the main strategies to help reduce these statistics is evidence-based fall prevention classes which help to build muscle, improve balance, and increase participants’ confidence in fall control. A goal of the Arkansas Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program (HRSA grant U1QHP28723) is to deliver community-based programs that improve health outcomes and quality of life. Evidence-based preventive health training is a major way to meet this goal. Two of these evidence-based trainings are Tai Chi (TC) and A Matter of Balance (AMOB), multi-week classes that help to improve balance and reduce fall risk. This study took place at scheduled community-based classes, where demographic and balance data were obtained. The aim was to determine the difference in the balance of community-dwelling OA as measured by Balance Tracking System® before and after AMOB and TC courses. Both groups showed positive changes in their mean balance percentage with the AMOB class having a higher Mean ± SD (24.3 ± 21.0) vs. the TC participants (4.0 ± 29.7). The One-Way Analysis of Variance showed statistically significant difference in the AMOB class over those in the TC class, F (1, 32) = 5.280, p < 0.05. The Cohen’s d = 0.789 indicates a large effect between the two groups.
PEER TO PEER SUPPORT AND HEALTH CARE UTILIZATION AMONG COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Jacobs Elizabeth A , Schwei Rebecca , Hetzel Scott , Mahoney Jane , Kim KyungMann
Published: November 2019

The majority of older adults want to live and age in their communities. Some community-based organizations (CBOs) have initiated peer-to-peer support services to promote aging in place but the effectiveness of these programs is not clear. Our objective was to compare the effectiveness of a community-designed and implemented peer-to-peer support program vs. access to standard community services, in promoting health and wellness in vulnerable older adult populations. We partnered with three CBOs, one each in California, Florida, and New York, to enroll adults 65 > years of age who received peer support and matched control participants (on age, gender, and race/ethnicity) in an observational study. We followed participants over 12 months, collecting data on self-reported urgent care and emergency department visits and hospitalizations. In order to account for the lack of randomization, we used a propensity score method to compare outcomes between the two groups. We enrolled 222 older adults in the peer-to-peer group and 234 in the control group. After adjustment, we found no differences between the groups in the incidence of hospitalization, urgent and emergency department visits, and composite outcome of any health care utilization. The incidence of urgent care visits was statistically significantly greater in the standard community service group than in the peer-to-peer group. Given that the majority of older adults and their families want them to age in place, the question of how to do this is highly relevant. Peer-to-peer services may provide some benefit to older adults in regard to their health care utilization.
MINDFULNESS TRAINING FOR CAREGIVERS OF ALZHEIMER PATIENTS: PRELIMINARY RESULTS OF A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL
Authors: Pomares Miriam Hurtado , Canales Daniel Mendialdua , Gómez Paula Peral , Sempere Cristina Espinosa , Leal Iris Juárez , Gran Desireé Valera , Muñoz Eva Mª Navarrete , Pérez Alicia Sánchez
Published: November 2019

Mindfulness Based Health Care (MBHC) provides meditation techniques that may help to mitigate negative impact of dementia caregiving. We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial with two parallel groups including 42 caregivers of Alzheimer patients (21 pairs). MBHC group learned the practice of mindfulness meditation once a week through 8 classes; control group did not receive any therapy. Anxiety and depression symptoms were the primary outcomes assessed in two occasions, i.e. at baseline and the end of the program, using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale respectively. Neuropsychiatric disorders of Alzheimer patients were also measured with Neuropsychiatric Inventory-Questionnaire. The details of the randomized controlled trial were described in clinicaltrial.gov NCT03858283. In this abstract, we presented the results of a pilot study conducted with 42 caregivers. Robust linear regression using MM-type estimator was performed to evaluate the changes in neuropsychiatric disorders in patients and anxiety and depression symptoms in caregivers adjusting for Score of Scale Global Deterioration. We observed that, compared to the control group, the MBHC group showed a tendency to a reduction in the total score Neuropsychiatric Inventor (β=-5.20; CI 95%: -10.47; 0.07) and the depression symptoms in the caregivers (β=-2.30; CI 95%: -5.43; 0.83). However, no changes were observed in the anxiety symptoms of the caregivers. In conclusion, the results of this pilot study suggested a positive effective on the reduction of neuropsychiatric symptoms in patents as well as on the depression in the caregivers. Nevertheless, these findings should be confirmed in a further complete study.
TECHNOLOGY USE IN RURAL DEMENTIA CARE: PERSPECTIVES FROM FAMILY CAREGIVERS, PWD, AND SERVICE PROFESSIONALS
Authors: Prieto Lucas R , Sun Fei , Zhang Wenwu , Kononova Anastasia
Published: November 2019

Purpose: The use of technology in dementia care has shown promising benefits for both people living with dementia and their family caregivers, however, little is known regarding how technology is used among families affected by dementia who reside in rural communities. The purpose of this study was to explore technology use and barriers among people living with dementia, family caregivers, and service professionals who live in rural areas of Michigan. Methods: This study was based upon focus group data from six groups of family caregivers (n=32); one group of people living with early stages of dementia (n=4), and one group of service professionals (n=4) recruited from rural counties in Michigan. Results: Technology use included assisting caregiving tasks (e.g., monitoring a wandering care recipient), facilitating treatment (e.g., access treatment through telemedicine), and providing social connection and support. Themes related to strategies included addressing educational needs of young older and old-older caregivers, providing step-by-step toolkits, and collaborating with multi-sectors (e.g., public libraries, grocery stores, and churches). Discussion: Findings suggest a great need to facilitate technology literacy and competency for rural family caregivers to access caregiving resources. To effectively reach out to this population, technology methods such as local TV news network, radio, and newspaper are still beneficial. Health and social service professionals should consider collaborations with public service institutions (e.g. libraries) and faith-based organizations to include educational workshops about technology in their curriculum and training programs for dementia family caregivers.
THE INTERNET IS A BOY’S CLUB?: ANALYZING GENDER DIFFERENCES IN COMPUTER & INTERNET ADOPTION BY OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Wilson Derek A
Published: November 2019

The realization of technology’s exponential advancement has been noted in recent years. With ever advancing technologies becoming more integrated in our everyday lives, we must adapt and learn to utilize these new technologies in order to maintain a presence in society. One group that has been stereotyped as struggling to adopt and learn the processes involved with advancing technologies is that of the older adult population. However, previous literature tends to suggest that there are also gendered differences in the adoption of different forms of modern and advancing technologies among older adults. While some articles state that older adult women have been reported to use social media than their male counterparts, conflicting previous literature states that older adult women use newer technologies less, but are more creative in their uses. With these conflicting reports, there comes a need for proper analyses on the gendered use of modern technology among older adults. Using data from the 2015 Current Population Survey (CPS) Computer and Internet Use Supplement, different demographic factors are analyzed for influences on use of technologies. The older adult age cohorts analyzed include the Baby Boomer and the Silent Generation age cohorts. This analysis includes of controlling for additional factors such as regional residence, educational attainment, and other social location variables. Contrary to much of the existing literature, there is little difference in the adoption of computer and internet technologies by older adults. Additionally, the analyses are performed on the Generation X and Millennial age cohorts for comparison.
SOCIAL ISOLATION AND COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING AMONG OLDER JAPANESE ADULTS
Authors: Okamoto Shohei , Kobayashi Erika , Liang Jersey
Published: November 2019

This research aimed to assess the relationship between social isolation and cognitive functioning among older Japanese adults, thereby expanding the relevant literature in two main ways. First, we estimated a social isolation score to incorporate objective measurements of social isolation into a subjective measurement. Second, a panel data analysis was utilised to consider the change in the social isolation score and time-invariant unobserved heterogeneity. Data were derived from the National Survey of the Japanese Elderly, a survey of a sample of older Japanese adults aged 60 to 99 in waves 3 through 7, which contain unified information of social isolation. The sample included 4,889 observations (1,836 individuals) for men and 6,621 observations (2,433 individuals) for women. The predicted isolation score was obtained by a random-effects ordered logistic regression (i.e., regressing a subjective feeling of isolation on variables regarding social interaction, social support, and social engagement). The association of cognitive functioning with the isolation score was estimated by a fixed-effects ordinary least squares regression, controlling for age, socioeconomic variables, health conditions, and time fixed-effects. We found that increased isolation was associated with a deterioration in cognitive functioning, both for men (coefficient: 0.66, robust standard error [SE]: 0.30) and women (coefficient: 0.90, SE: 0.26). Findings of this research highlight the importance of actions aimed at inhibiting social isolation for the prevention of cognitive decline. This approach is potentially beneficial for developing measurements of both subjective and objective social isolation and estimating the longitudinal relationship between social isolation and cognitive functioning.
QUALITY OF CONTACT WITH OLDER ADULTS AND KNOWLEDGE ABOUT AGING ARE ASSOCIATED WITH LOWER AGEISM AMONG YOUNG ADULTS
Authors: Helphrey Jessica H , Adams Cassidy M , Smith Leah N , Sawyer Jennifer , Fierro Leigh A , Edzards Sarah , Coldiron Allyson M , Barnett Michael D
Published: November 2019

Ageism refers to stereotypes about and prejudice against individuals on the basis of age. Ageism among young adults may be different than other forms of intolerance simply because age changes; that is, young adults will grow older, and they will eventually become a member of what is presently an outgroup (i.e., older adults). The purpose of this study was to investigate whether ageism among young adults (N = 623) is more closely associated with future-oriented variables (i.e., optimism and fear of death) or whether ageism more closely resembles an outgroup attitude, which like other outgroup attitudes is mitigated by knowledge about and quality of contact with those outgroup members. Bivariate correlations found that knowledge of aging, quality of contact with older adults, and optimism were associated with lower ageism. In a multiple regression analysis, only knowledge about aging and quality of contact with older adults were associated with lower ageism. Overall, the results suggest that ageism represents more of an outgroup attitude rather than a future-oriented attitude. These results support the contact hypothesis in that knowledge of aging and quality of contact with older adults were associated with lower ageism among young adults. Education about aging and quality contact with older adults may be effective ways to reduce ageism among young adults.
DIFFERENTIAL EFFECTS OF STATINS ON COGNITION IN WOMEN AT RISK FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Authors: Wroolie Tonita E , Roat-Shumway Siena , Watson Katie , Rasgon Natalie
Published: November 2019

It is well established that the apolipoprotein epsilon 4 allele (APOE4) and being female are risk factors for late onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and declines in verbal learning and memory are early cognitive symptoms of conversion to AD. Because of conflicting findings regarding the effects of statins on cognition, this study examined statin use with respect to verbal learning and memory by APOE4 status in a sample of cognitively unimpaired women at risk for AD. Neuropsychological, statin use, and APOE4 data were utilized as a secondary analysis from an ongoing longitudinal study at the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute in Arizona. Subjects were cognitively unimpaired women aged 47-75 with a family history of probable AD in at least one first-degree relative. Neuropsychological outcome variables included total learning, immediate memory, and delayed memory scores from the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT). Statin use was defined by use of a cholesterol lowering drug at study enrollment. APOE4 status was defined by presence of at least one APOE4 allele. Linear regression analyses were conducted to determine existence of interactions between statin use and APOE4 status on cognition. Statistically significant interactions were found between statin use and APOE4 status in RAVLT total learning and immediate memory. Statin use in women APOE4 non-carriers was associated with better verbal learning and immediate memory performances whereas statin use in women APOE4 carriers was associated with worse performances on these same tasks. Conclusions. Findings suggest that sex and APOE4 status may be important factors in consideration of statin use.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF POSTERIOR CORTICAL ATROPHY: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Albright Amy , Burkhardt John , Ikard Catherine , Halli-Tierney Anne
Published: November 2019

The following case study examines the presentation of Mr. Fraser*, an older adult African American male diagnosed with Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) following neuropsychological evaluation. PCA is a rare variant of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) that results in visuospatial and perceptual deficits. Unlike other forms of neurocognitive degeneration, PCA tends to present at a relatively young age and may progress rapidly. There is currently a lack of studies examining PCA from a neuropsychological perspective, which may contribute to low awareness of this condition, as well as delayed diagnosis. It has been estimated that approximately 5% of patients with AD exhibit the PCA variant, implying that this a rare but serious condition. The following case study focuses on Mr. Fraser, a 65-year-old who was referred for neuropsychological assessment to assess his cognitive functioning. Mr. Fraser was administered a comprehensive assessment battery, and his overall results were suggestive of severe deficits in delayed memory and visuospatial skills. In the case of Mr. Fraser, these observed deficits, along with identification of visual complaints noted by his geriatrician, ultimately led to a diagnosis of PCA. While this was supported by neurological testing, the DSM-5 does not currently recognize PCA as a diagnosis. As a result, Mr. Fraser was given a diagnosis of possible AD with potential PCA, which may contribute to underestimates of the prevalence of this disorder. Future research and practice should focus on common neuropsychological presentations of this condition. *Identifying information changed in accordance with HIPAA guidelines
NINE YEAR CHANGES IN PREVALENCE OF COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC
Authors: Seblova Dominika , Kuklova Marie , Kopecek Miloslav , Cermakova Pavla , Brayne Carol , Machu Vendula
Published: November 2019

Studies from North America and Western Europe suggest stable or declining trends in impaired cognition. Nevertheless, data on changes in cognitive health from Central and Eastern Europe are largely lacking. Therefore, we aimed to examine changes in the age-specific prevalence of cognitive impairment in the Czech Republic, a country in Central Europe. To this aim we used two samples from the population-based Czech Survey on Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). Age-specific prevalence of cognitive impairment (defined based on scores in verbal fluency, immediate recall, delayed recall and temporal orientation) was compared between participants in wave 2 (2006/2007; n=1,107) and wave 6 (2015; n=3,104). Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between wave and cognitive impairment, step-wise adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Multiple sensitivity analyses, focusing on alternative operationalisations of relative cognitive impairment, impact of missing cognitive data and survival bias, were carried out. The most conservative estimate suggested that the age-specific prevalence of cognitive impairment declined by one fifth, from 11% in 2006/2007 to 9% in 2015. Decline was observed in all sensitivity analyses. Multivariate decomposition for nonlinear models was used to examine which predictors explain the change in prevalence. Reduction in physical inactivity, control of high blood cholesterol and increases in length of education were the main predictors contributing to decline in cognitive impairment. In conclusion, our findings are in line with those found in North America and Western Europe even though countries in Central and Eastern Europe, including Czech Republic, have poorer risk profiles.
“HE EXPLAINED IT TO ME AND I ALSO DID IT MYSELF”: HOW OLDER ADULTS GET HELP WITH DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Hunsaker Amanda E , Nguyen Minh Hao , Fuchs Jaelle , Djukaric Teodora , Hugentobler Larissa , Hargittai Eszter
Published: November 2019

Older adults comprise a highly heterogeneous group that engages with digital media in varying ways, therefore a large variation in technology support needs is likely. This study examines the nature of support for using digital media among older adults. We conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with older adults (age 59+) in Hungary, the Netherlands, and Switzerland (N=58) in 2019 exploring: (1) whether and how older adults receive support in using digital media; and (2) older adults’ perceptions of whether the support they receive meets their needs. We began with open coding, then conducted consensus meetings to identify themes and coding schemes, and wrote memos to share findings and ensure reliability across coders. We find that older adults voice a highly varying range of need for technical support as well as varying instances of both receiving and not receiving technical help. Participants report receiving help from different informal (e.g. spouses) and formal (e.g. computer classes) sources. However, support may not be immediate, posing challenges for older adults who depend on the availability of their support sources. Importantly, we also find that there are older adults who are quite self-sufficient in the ways they use digital technology. For older adults needing support, greater access to community-based support may help those without satisfactory options in their own social circle. Given our findings that older adults can have great ease with solving technology-related problems, peer-driven support networks where older adults can offer support to others may be an effective approach to providing digital technology guidance.