bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE STUDY OF AGING A SEARCH FOR MEANINGFUL PATIENT AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT IN GERONTOLOGICAL QUALITATIVE DATA ANALYSIS
Authors: Hanratty Barbara , Stocker Rachel , Brittain Katie
Published: November 2019

Patients and the public are involved in health and social care research more than ever before. Much effort has been put into developing patient and public involvement (PPI), and promoting co-production of research with patients and the public. Yet there is little guidance for researchers on how to involve PPI partners in the research process, or how involvement can be judged as meaningful. This presentation has its origins in the attempts of one research team to question and navigate a way of involving PPI in long term care research. In this presentation, we describe our model of collaborative qualitative data analysis with PPI partners, in a study exploring primary care services for older adults living in long-term care facilities in England. Anonymised interview transcript excerpts were presented in written, audio, and role-play format to our PPI partners. PPI partners derived meaning from interview data, identifying, confirming and critiquing emerging themes. Their input at this critical stage of the study deepened our initial analysis and prompted the research team to new and different interpretations of the data. This talk addresses ways of engaging PPI partners in innovative ways during data analysis, and offers other researchers some questions, challenges and potential principles for effective practice. We conclude that in areas such as long term care, with multiple stakeholders and a dynamic environment, effective PPI may be flexible, messy and difficult to define.
SURVIVING THE COMPLEXITY: USING GROUNDED THEORY TO UNDERSTAND KINSHIP CAREGIVING
Authors: Tompkins Catherine J
Published: November 2019

The role of a caregiver often goes beyond the task of caring for someone who is dependent in managing activities of daily living. Children are dependent on others to care for them due solely to their age and maturity; others are dependent due to chronic ailments or short-term disabilities. Regardless of why someone is dependent, the caregiving relationship is complex. This paper focuses on a grounded theory, developed and applied to understand the complexities of kinship caregiving. The literature continues to support the identified needs of kinship caregivers (Tompkins, 2015; Lee, Clarkson-Hendrix, & Lee, 2016). To understand the unique needs of kinship families, the following grand tour question was asked: What is it like for you to live within a kinship caregiving household? The theory was developed over several years based on observational data and 15 interviews with grandparent caregivers and at least one of the grandchildren they were raising. The theory, Surviving the Complexity, is a survival process of taking on the caregiving role and doing one’s best in spite of multiple obstacles. Surviving the complexity consists of three stages: rescuing, taking-on and role reversal. The theory identifies and explains emotional, relationship and situational complexity within kinship families. Hope and denial are factors of emotional complexity: “It’s not that she (my daughter) does not love him (the child), she is just unable to right now. She will get better.” Theory development and further application of the theory will be discussed.
MOVING BEYOND INDIVIDUAL COPING TO DEVELOPING SYSTEMS-LEVEL INTERVENTIONS FOR COMMUNITY-DWELLING ADULTS
Authors: Lewinson Terri , Bowland Sharon
Published: November 2019

According to AARP, the number of Americans aged 65 and older will grow to 90.5 million, which is double the count in 2010. Along with the growth of the aging population, we can also anticipate more diverse older adult communities due to increased immigration and evolving, complex family constellations. Two major concerns for aging adults is managing increasing geriatric conditions that affect mobility/function and chronic morbidities, while also trying to afford quality housing, the environmental context within which older adults spend most of their time. Urban planners and human service providers must remain abreast of the housing-health needs of this aging population and prepare aging-friendly communities that foster resident resilience and address “environmental, economic, and social factors that influence the health and wellbeing of older people” (AARP, 2017). In this symposium, panelists one present findings from a qualitative study to explore collective trauma and resilience narratives among residents in Flint, Michigan. Panelists two share findings from a community-based participatory study that explores the intricate network of relationships among residents as a core indicator of livability in senior housing. Panelists three share strategies for strengthening networks to reducing resident isolation and loneliness. Lastly, the fourth set of panelists discuss policy implications and trauma-informed approaches needed for residents with a history of interpersonal trauma.
THE DIFFERENTIAL INFLUENCE OF REGIONAL CONTEXT ON LATER-LIFE HEALTH AND MORTALITY
Authors: Riley Alicia
Published: November 2019

This study examines regional disparities in later life health from a life course perspective. To sort out when and how region influences health over the life course, I focus on the sharp contrast between the South and the rest of the U.S. in health and mortality. I draw on data from the National Life Health and Aging Project (NSHAP), a nationally representative sample of community-dwelling older adults in the U.S., to estimate the differential risk of multiple health outcomes and mortality by regional trajectory. I find that older adults who leave the South are worse off in multiple outcomes than those who stay. I also find evidence of a protective health effect of community cohesion and dense social networks for the Southerners who stay in the South. My results suggest that regional trajectory influences health in later life through its associations with socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, and social rootedness.
CHRONIC DISEASES IN MIDDLE-AGED ADULTS WITH SUBJECTIVE COGNITIVE DECLINE: UNITED STATES, 2015-2017
Authors: Taylor Christopher A , Bouldin Erin D , McGuire Lisa C
Published: November 2019

While adults aged 65 years and older are most at risk for chronic conditions, studies show that middle-aged adults aged 45–64 years also have growing numbers of comorbid chronic diseases. Regardless of age, managing chronic conditions requires decision-making abilities to manage treatments effectively. Symptoms of memory loss and confusion may impair a person’s ability to manage their health. This study examined chronic conditions in persons with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), defined as the self-reported experience of increased memory problems or confusion. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data from 2015–2017 were used to define SCD and disease status for eight chronic conditions (heart disease, stroke, cancer, arthritis, asthma, depression, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) for adults 45–64 years from 49 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico that collected data on cognitive decline. Among adults aged 45–64 years, 10.8% reported SCD. Among those with SCD, 77.4% had at least one chronic disease compared to 47.1% of those without SCD. Those with SCD had a higher prevalence for all eight conditions compared to those similarly-aged without SCD. Adults with at least one chronic condition were more likely to discuss their symptoms of SCD with a health care professional (54.2%) compared to those with no chronic conditions (30.3%). Poor management of chronic conditions can result in increased health care costs and might worsen existing symptoms of confusion and memory problems. Self-care interventions for chronic disease management should consider the importance of an individual’s cognitive status, including SCD.
EARLY IDENTIFICATION OF COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT AMONG VULNERABLE OLDER ADULTS LIVING AT HOME
Authors: Brown Maria T , Brangman Sharon A
Published: November 2019

African Americans are twice as likely as Caucasians to develop Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/D), are at greater risk of frailty if they have AD/D, and are less likely to seek a diagnosis before experiencing a crisis. This collaborative community-based project aimed to evaluate the processes and outcomes of adding a Mini-Cog© screening to existing Area Agency on Aging (AAA) assessments performed by a neighborhood advisor in a lower-income African American neighborhood in a mid-sized northeastern city. AAA clients receive initial in-home screenings to assess their need for income-related services to help them continue living safely in the community, but are not screened for potential cognitive issues that may exacerbate or be masked by the very conditions that AAAs aim to address. This pilot was designed to introduce a mechanism for the early identification of previously undetected cognitive impairment, provide referrals for comprehensive cognition screening at a Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease (CEAD), and increase access to needed health and community support services. We hypothesized that adding the Mini-Cog© to existing AAA assessments would increase the early identification of vulnerable older African Americans with or at risk of AD/D. Process outcomes included challenges encountered when engaging community caregivers on the project team, learning to interpret Mini-Cog© results, the labor-intensive nature of scheduling Mini-Cog© assessments with existing clients, addressing client stigma and fear of AD/D, and client resistance to comprehensive testing. This presentation reviews process and outcome evaluation data from the pilot, and discusses implications for expanding the intervention.
RACE, DEATH OF A SIBLING, AND DEMENTIA RISK AT LATE ADULTHOOD
Authors: Xu Minle
Published: November 2019

The death of a family member is a stressful life event that compromises health and well-being. Considerable research has documented the detrimental health effects of parental, child, and spousal death. However, much less is known with regard to the health consequences of sibling death especially in late adulthood. Relationship with sibling is one of longest and intimate social relationships and the death of a sibling can be a devastating life event especially for older adults as they are more vulnerable to adverse effect of stress. As sibling death is more prevalent in late adulthood, it is important to examine whether sibling death increases risks of dementia which has become a public health concern due to its deleterious effects on individuals, families, and societies. Therefore, this study investigates the association between sibling death and dementia incidence in later life by using longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study. Results from discrete-time hazard models show that respondents who experienced the death of a sibling between 1992 and 2000 are more likely to develop dementia during follow-up. This positive association between the death of a sibling and dementia incidence remains unchanged after accounting for respondents’ health status before sibling death and shared family social status during childhood. Further analyses indicate that psychological distress, health behaviors, and health status cannot explain the relationship between sibling death and dementia incidence. In addition, the association of sibling death with dementia incidence is similar for non-Hispanic whites and non-Hispanic blacks.
THE IMPACT OF INTERGENERATIONAL SUPPORT ON DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AMONG OLDER MEXICAN AMERICANS: DOES GENDER MATTER?
Authors: Pei Yaolin , Cong Zhen , Wu Bei
Published: November 2019

The study examined gender differences in the impact of living alone and intergenerational support on depressive symptoms among Mexican American older adults. The sample included 335 parent-adult child dyads which were nested within 92 Mexican American respondents in a city in West Texas. Each respondent reported their specific relationships with each child. The results from clustered regression showed that men provided and received less intergenerational support than women, but their depressive symptoms were more susceptible to living alone and different types of intergenerational support. Factors such as living alone, and receiving instrumental support were related to higher levels of depressive symptoms among Mexican American older men than among in their female counterparts, whereas emotional closeness with children was associated with lower level of depressive symptoms in men than in women. The findings can be used to develop and target a gender-specific approach for depression interventions among older Mexican Americans.
LONGITUDINAL INTERRELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SENSORY LOSS, SOCIAL SUPPORT, LONELINESS, AND COGNITION
Authors: Ge Shaoqing , Pan Wei , Wu Bei , Plassman Brenda , McConnell Eleanor S
Published: November 2019

This study aims to understand the roles that psychosocial factors play on the longitudinal associations between sensory (including hearing and vision) loss and cognitive decline. Specifically, we hypothesized that (1) loneliness mediates the associations between sensory loss and cognitive decline; and (2) social support moderates the associations between sensory loss and cognitive decline. We used longitudinal parallel process (LPP) modeling with data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and the Aging, Demographics, and Memory study (ADAMS). Age variable centered at its mean age of 82. In the most parsimonious model, loneliness fully mediated the associations between vision loss and the average cognitive status at age 82 (p < .05). Social support moderated the associations between vision loss and the average cognitive status at age 82 (β= .14, p < .05). No moderation or mediation effect was found for the psychosocial factors on the associations between hearing loss and cognition.
LIFE COURSE EXAMINATION OF GLOBAL AND DAILY PSYCHOSOCIAL IMPACTS OF FAMILY CAREGIVERS IN MIDLIFE AND LATE ADULTHOOD
Authors: Wong Jen D , Wong Jen D , Shobo Yetty , Hodgdon Barbara T
Published: November 2019

Family members often serve as informal caregivers for the first line of care. The complexity of family caregiving suggests the need to examine the personal and environmental resources that contribute to caregivers’ psychosocial well-being. Informed by the life course perspective, this study investigates the impacts of providing care to a family member on global and daily psychosocial well-being, and the moderating influences of age, gender, marital status, and social support. The sample consists of 1449 (M=55.99, SD=9.31) participants from Midlife in the United States (MIDUS-II: Main and Diary) survey. Regression and multilevel models results indicated greater global negative affect and daily stressors in caregivers as compared to non-caregivers. In line with the positive correlates of caregiving, caregivers reported greater daily positive events. Age, gender, and marital status significantly moderated the associations between caregiving and well-being. Findings showed that services aimed at family caregivers should take into account of personal resources.
GENDER AND HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF EXTENDING WORKING LIFE: CROSS-NATIONAL PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Leime Aine Ni , Street Debra A
Published: November 2019

This symposium addresses the issue of extended working life policy by considering the influence of gender and health on the experiences of older workers. In response to population ageing, policies designed to extend working life have been introduced in many countries. These policies include raising state pension age and linking the amount of state pensions more closely to years spent in paid employment. Such policies tend to be undifferentiated by gender or health status – in most countries, state pension age has been raised to the same age for men and women. Yet, research evidence indicates that women in all countries are disadvantaged in relation to employment at older ages and pensions. There are also health inequalities for older workers, depending on their occupation and whether they are in precarious or secure employment. Extended working life is of pressing societal concern. This symposium brings together the work of a group of leading international scholars who have been researching and reflecting on its implications in a forthcoming book on the topic across 34 countries. The symposium begins with an overview and analysis of the empirical landscape of older employment and pension policy by Martina Rasticova and Jim Ogg; Paper 2 offers a discussion of the theoretical perspectives and policy debates across 34 countries by Clary Krekula; there will be an analysis of extended working life policy in Ireland by Aine Ni Leime and a final presentation synthesising policy recommendations and mapping future research directions in extended working life by Debra Street.
GENDER, HEALTH, AND EXTENDED WORKING LIFE IN IRELAND
Authors: Leime Aine Ni
Published: November 2019

This presentation is based on a forthcoming book chapter which analyses policies, statistical evidence and qualitative data to investigate the gender and health implications of Extended Working Life policy in Ireland. The qualitative data is from a study conducted in 2018 that investigated attitudes to extended working life and experiences of late life work among sixty older workers, 30 men and 30 women in three different occupations, health care workers/cleaners, teachers and academic faculty.The data were analysed using a lifecourse approach. Workers in physically-demanding occupations, those in precarious employment and women were found to be more likely to be disadvantaged in relation to options for extending their working lives. It is recommended that policies be modified to address the disadvantages faced by these groups of workers.
LONG-TERM CARE FACILITY VARIATION IN THE INCIDENCE OF PNEUMONIA AND INFLUENZA HOSPITALIZATIONS
Authors: Bosco Elliott , Zullo Andrew , McConeghy Kevin , Moyo Patience , Aalst Robertus van , Chit Ayman , Mor Vincent , Gravenstein Stefan
Published: November 2019

Pneumonia and influenza (P&I) increase morbidity and mortality among older adults, especially those residing in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). Facility-level characteristics may affect P&I risk beyond resident-level determinants. However, the relationship between facility characteristics and P&I is poorly understood. We therefore identified potentially modifiable facility-level characteristics that might influence the incidence of P&I across LTCFs. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using 100% of 2013-2015 Medicare claims linked to Minimum Data Set 3.0 and LTCF-level data. Short-stay (<100 days) and long-stay (≥100 days) LTCF residents aged ≥65 were followed for the first occurrence of hospitalization, LTCF discharge, Medicare disenrollment, or death. We calculated LTCF risk-standardized incidence rates (RSIRs) per 100 person-years for P&I hospitalizations by adjusting for over 30 resident-level demographic and clinical covariates using hierarchical logistic regression. The final study cohorts included 1,767,241 short-stay (13,683 LTCFs) and 922,863 long-stay residents (14,495 LTCFs). LTCFs with lower RSIRs had more Physician Extenders (Nurse Practitioners or Physician’s Assistants) among short-stay (44.9% vs. 41.6%, p<0.001) and long-stay residents (47.4% vs. 37.9%, p<0.001), higher Registered Nurse hours/resident/day among short-stay and long-stay residents (Mean (SD): 0.5 (0.7) vs. 0.4 (0.4), p<0.001), and fewer residents prescribed antipsychotics among short-stay (21.4% (11.6) vs. 23.6% (13.2), p<0.001) and long-stay residents (22.2% (14.3) vs. 25.5% (15.0), p<0.001). LTCF characteristics may play an important role in preventing P&I hospitalizations. Hiring more Registered Nurses and Physician Extenders, increasing staffing hours, and reducing antipsychotic use may be modifiable means of reducing P&I in LTCFs. Funding provided by Sanofi Pasteur.
PREDICTORS OF CONCOMITANT COGNITIVE AND PHYSICAL FUNCTION DECLINE: RESULTS FROM THE HEALTH ABC STUDY
Authors: Handing Elizabeth , Leng Iris , Hayden Kathleen , Rosano Caterina , Kritchevsky Stephen
Published: November 2019

Although many individual risk factors for cognitive and physical decline have been identified, less is known about factors that predict concomitant or “dual decline”. Utilizing data from the Health ABC study (n=2,553), we examined trajectories of decline based on repeated measures of the Modified Mini-Mental State Exam (3MS) and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) across 5 years. Next, we calculated four mutually exclusive trajectories of decline derived from the slope: no decline (change in slope ≥ 0, n= 1,190), cognitive decline (lowest quartile of slope in 3MS; n=445), physical decline (lowest quartile of slope in SPPB; n= 407), and dual decline (lowest quartile for both cognitive and physical decline; n= 211). Logistic regression tested the association of 23 baseline risk factors with dual decline. Odds of dual decline where higher in relation with depression (CES-D >16) (Odds Ratio [OR]: OR:2.77, 95% Confidence Interval [95% CI] [1.25- 6.15]), and lower for individuals with a better score on the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) (OR: 0.97 [0.95-0.98]), grip strength (OR: 0.97 [0.94-1.00]), and 400m gait speed (OR: 0.11 [0.03-0.40]). Among the predictors identified, depressive mood at baseline nearly tripled the odds of developing dual decline, but was not associated with decline in either the cognitive or physical domains. Depressive mood is uniquely associated with dual decline; future studies should focus on the overlap between mood states and function, as mood may be modifiable.
LATE-LIFE SUICIDE: IDENTIFYING PREVENTION TARGETS AND MOBILIZING COMMUNITIES TO MANAGE RISK
Authors: Ebert Alexandria R , Bower Emily S , Conwell Yeates
Published: November 2019

Adults aged 70 and older have the highest suicide rates in most countries across the globe (World Health Organization, 2014). Prevalence may increase as the Baby Boomers transition into older adulthood (Phillips, 2014). Disease and disability increase risk for late-life suicide, thus identifying opportunities to intervene within the network of services utilized by older adults with illness and disability could reduce suicide risk. This symposium will explore the impact of disease and disability on late-life suicide risk, and present novel ideas for intervention and prevention. Emphasizing the conference theme, we will discuss prevention points spanning networks of care, including mental health and social services, and long-term care. Dr. Bower will frame the scope of the problem by presenting findings of age-stratified associations between physical illness and suicide attempt among older veterans using secondary data from a retrospective case-control study of veterans. Ms. Lutz will present findings on the relationship between disability and suicidal thoughts from a clinical trial of problem-solving therapy. Dr. Lane will discuss management and identification of suicide risk factors during the transition from independent living to long-term care through the lens of a case-series. Dr. Fullen will present preliminary findings from a novel, randomized controlled trial of a community-based suicide prevention training program for nutrition service volunteers. Dr. Yeates Conwell, Co-Director of the Center for the Study and Prevention of Suicide and Director of the Geriatric Psychiatry Program at the University of Rochester Medical Center, will serve as the discussant.
CHANGES IN OLDER ADULTS’ INFORMAL CARE NETWORKS
Authors: Lin I-Fen , Wu Hsueh-Sheng
Published: November 2019

Many older adults rely on informal care networks to overcome challenges in life and maintain well-being. The composition and function of the informal care network may change as existing caregivers leave and new caregivers join the network over time. The majority of prior studies on caregiving to older adults are based on cross-sectional data and thus cannot examine changes in older adults’ informal care networks. Although some have followed older adults’ informal caregivers over time, they usually focus on primary caregivers, rather than the entire informal care network longitudinally. The newly available panel data on a nationally representative sample of caregivers from the National Study of Caregiving (NSOC) provide an excellent opportunity for researchers to understand how older adults’ informal care networks change over time and what factors relate to discontinuation of care. Using the NSOC 2015 and 2017, we found that 70% of older adults (N = 1,395) experienced changed in informal care networks within two years. Only a small portion of spouses (6%) discontinued giving care to older adults, whereas 21% adult children, 56% other kin, and 77% nonkin stopped caregiving by 2017. We further examined how older adults’ needs for support, caregivers’ resources and constraints, and caregiving experiences were associated with discontinuation of care. This study is expected to advance gerontological research by broadening our understanding of informal caregiving in late life and providing practical implications on how to sustain informal care.
PERCEIVED DISCRIMINATION, ANGER CONTROL, AND INFLAMMATION IN MIDLIFE: THE ROLE OF EARLY-LIFE ADVERSITY
Authors: Lee Chioun , Coons Jennifer , Harari Lexi
Published: November 2019

Early life adversity has severe consequences for adult biological health particularly in minority group individuals. Two ways in which it may be possible to reduce these negative consequences on adult health are individual differences in perceived discrimination due to early life adversities and learning internal skills (i.e. anger control) to help cope with early life adversities and perceived discrimination. The current study utilized 2,118 participants (55% female) from the MIDUS Projects. Early life adversities included three constructs: low socioeconomic status, family instability, and abuse (sexual, physical, and emotional). The best-fitting model from the latent class analyses revealed four distinct groups: 1) no early life adversities group, 2) low socioeconomic status only group, 3) low socioeconomic status and family instability group, and 4) all three early life adversities group. Minority groups were more likely to reside in the all three early life adversities group. Perceived discrimination was measured via two pathways: lifetime discrimination and daily discrimination. Anger control (one measure of an internal skill one learns to cope with early life adversities and perceived discrimination) was assessed with an anger-control scale. Inflammation markers were used as an indicator of biological health. Experiencing more early life adversities was related to greater inflammation and this relationship was partially explained via the pathway of greater early life adversities, greater perceived lifetime/daily discrimination, worse anger control, and greater inflammation. The findings support the need for a more holistic measure of early life adversities as it has a clear impact on adult inflammation.
DRIVING CESSATION AND SOCIAL ISOLATION IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Qin Weidi , Xiang Xiaoling , Taylor Harry O
Published: November 2019

This study aimed to investigate the impact of driving cessation on social isolation in older adults. Data came from the National Health and Aging Trends Study round 1 through round 6 surveys. Study sample consisted 6,916 Medicare beneficiaries aged 65+ who were eligible drivers at baseline. Social isolation measure was based on social domains concerning marriage, family and friends, church participation, and club participation. The impact of driving cessation on social isolation was assessed using mixed-effects ordered logistic regression and piece-wise regression. In multivariable mixed-effects ordered logistic regression, past-year non-drivers had a two-fold increase in the odds of being in a higher social isolation category (OR=2.1, p<.001). The odds of social isolation were higher among persons aged 85-89 (OR=1.40, p<.001) or 90+ (OR=1.99, p<.001) as compared with those aged 65-69, among men as compared with women (OR=2.54, p<.001), among persons living alone (OR=3.95, p<.001), with elevated depressive symptoms (OR=1.54, p<.001), and with possible (OR=1.39, p<.001) or probable dementia (OR=1.51, p<.001). The odds of social isolation decreased significantly as education and family income levels increased. Functional limitation was associated with higher odds of social isolation. Piecewise regression analysis showed social isolation score increased by 0.08 points (p=.024), indicating short-term impacts of incident driving cessation. Driving cessation is associated with higher risk of social isolation in older adults. Interventions to provide alternative transportation resources and reduce social isolation among older adults may improve public health impact by targeting older adults who recently stopped driving.
LAYING THE GROUNDWORK FOR BECOMING AN AGE-FRIENDLY UNIVERSITY: A MULTI-PHASE STUDY
Authors: Cannon Melissa L , Kerwood Renata , Kondash Mandie , Rowley Samuel , Wehr Hannah
Published: November 2019

As evidenced by the growing Age-Friendly University (AFU) global network, institutions of higher education are increasingly seeking ways to enhance the experiences of older adults who use them for reasons such as lifelong learning, career development, and intergenerational engagement. This multi-phase study explored the barriers and facilitators for older adults accessing a public university in a small Oregon town. The first phase of the study involved survey data collection from 46 members of the local senior center adjacent to the university campus. For the second phase, researchers recruited a sample from the survey respondents and used snowball sampling to conduct 12 interviews with senior center members, past and current senior center directors, and key contacts among university staff. The third phase of data collection paired student researchers with older adult research participants (N=14) in participatory action research to capture the unique perspectives of the research participants visiting the university campus using photovoice and a follow-up focus group. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS while qualitative data were analyzed using team coding and intensive group discussion to develop categories and themes. Findings revealed various opportunities to increase age-friendliness according to the principles outlined by the AFU initiative, such as developing a lifelong learning center on campus, strengthening the university-senior center partnership, and removing accessibility barriers in order to make the university campus friendlier for people of all ages and abilities. These findings are being used in a proposal to join the AFU network and to shape the university’s AFU vision.
EFFECTS OF PRODUCTIVE ENGAGEMENT ON SUBJECTIVE HEALTH AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH SENSORY IMPAIRMENTS
Authors: Lee Othelia E , Park Junghyun
Published: November 2019

Background: Productive engagement becomes significant protective factors in healthy aging. Yet, subgroups of older adults with age-related vision and hearing impairments lack access to various activities , suggesting that unequal ability to participate in productive aging is a major public health and health-disparities concern. Methods: Older adults experiencing age-related vision and hearing impairments were drawn from the 2015-2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (n=2,164). Perceived health status (good vs. poor) was outcome measures used in multivariate logistic regression. Two aspects of productive engagement was considered: 1) employment status (unemployed vs employed) and 2) regular religious service attendance as tools to build social capital in their faith-based communities. Gender, race, marital status, educational attainment, poverty, urbanization, obesity, chronic disease, hospitalization, binge drinking, cigarette smoking, and difficulty with mobility were considered as covariates. Results: Working older adults with sensory loss were more likely to perceived good health status, compared to their unemployed counterparts (OR=2.46, p<.05). Religious service attendance also became protective factors for health (OR=1.60, p<.01). Of the covariates, higher educational attainment, White race, having one chronic disease, hospitalization, smoking, drinking, and mobility challenges appeared to affect the health status. Conclusions/Implications: Study findings implied the needs to identify late-life engagement through work and participation in faith-based community as a major public health issue. Given the barriers and disincentives to the productive engagement of older adults in this culture, healthcare providers should provide programs promoting employment and religious attendance.
PROMOTION OF CULTURAL GENERATIVITY TO SUPPORT SUCCESSFUL AGING IN ALASKA NATIVE COMMUNITIES
Authors: Kim Steffi M , Lewis Jordan P
Published: November 2019

The psychological construct of generativity encompasses a person’s motivation to leave a legacy for future generations by investing in acts that will outlive the self (Ericson, 1950). Lewis and Allen (2017) outlined the importance of generativity within AN cultures (caring for the future of our youth) and expanded Erikson’s western-based definition by adding the indigenous cultural generativity component to describe and incorporate Alaska Native specific cultural elements. These culturally based elements involve giving back to family and community including guidance and teaching of future generations (Lewis & Allen, 2017). Generativity within western societies accentuates independent achievements and successes more than the notion to care for future generations. This study is part of a larger community-based, exploratory, study between researchers and communities to explore successful aging that included 42 Alaska Native Elders in the Norton-Sound subregion, 21 Alaska Native Elders from the Aleutian Pribilof Islands, and 26 Elders from the Bristol Bay region. Qualitative interviews explored the participant’s life, influences on aging well, and their aging process. Thematic analysis was used to investigate the impact of generativity on successful aging was used to establish codes and main themes based on the three different cultural regions of Alaska. The findings suggest that generativity promotes successful aging. Elders who live in communities that promote community engagement, support family and school activities, and maintain and/or revitalize culture and traditions reported increased emotional well-being. Results can guide communities to incorporate or support cultural activities that promote generative activities and meaningful engagement which fosters successful aging.
AFU PRINCIPLES IN ACTION: ENGAGING STUDENTS THROUGH HANDS-ON AGE-RELATED ACTIVITIES
Authors: Barragan Cassandra , Wladkowski Stephanie
Published: November 2019

The Age-Friendly University (AFU) Initiative is a global network of universities working to embrace and promote the growing population of older adults (OAs) on campuses. Integrating inter-generational learning is a proven benefit to share knowledge (Gerpott, Lehmann-Willenbrock, & Velopel, 2017) and to mutually benefit both older and more traditional learners (Pstross, Corrigan, Knopf, et al., 2017). To thoughtfully develop AFU initiatives on their campus, one midwestern university created an educational activity for students to better understand the needs of OAs. This presentation will cover results of this activity and offer suggestions for aging-focused learning activities. In winter 2019, 23 undergraduate students from 5 disciplines participated in a guided sensory activity with 5 Masters in Social Work (MSW) students that simulated impaired vision, hearing, and dexterity. Afterwards, using the AARP walking audit, they walked campus to understand challenges those with limitations might face. Students then completed a guided reflection and thought of ways to advocate for anyone with physical challenges, both off and on campus. This activity resulted in several successful learning outcomes and provided concrete experiences, establishing grounds to think about advocacy in a practical way. First, the undergraduate students presented their experiences at a campus-wide activism and advocacy event. They aimed to 1) increase awareness of the challenges those with visual and physical challenges and 2) promote the AFU initiatives. MSW students further analyzed their experience from a policy perspective and presented to the AFU steering committee with recommendations to influence policy in alignment with the AFU principles.
THE ROLE OF CAPRIN-1 PROTEIN DYSREGULATION IN SYNAPSE DECLINE LEADING TO PROGRESSION OF TAUOPATHIES
Authors: Fastenau Caitlyn , Cifuentes Helen , Kauwe Grant , Tracy Tara
Published: November 2019

Many neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by accumulation of proteins such as tau, a microtubule stabilization protein. Toxic tau forms tangles and affects neuronal synapse function, an early step of neurodegeneration. To focus on synapse function, we highlighted Caprin-1 protein. Through gene ontology, Caprin-1 is related to RNA granule proteins, important for transport and local translation in dendrites. Caprin-1 is of interest for neurodegeneration because it is a memory related protein, transports mRNA in RNA granules, and knock out mice demonstrate memory deficits. As we age, the performance of local translation in the dendrites is compromised and leads to synapse dysfunction. We hypothesize Caprin-1 binds to Tau and becomes disrupted. This leads to the dissolution of RNA granules, inhibition of mRNA transport in dendrites, suppression of translation, and failure of synapse. Early western blot data showed reduced Caprin-1 in PS19 Tau+, supporting our model that Caprin-1 is disrupted in disease models. Through immunohistochemistry, we investigated the localization of Caprin-1 in the mouse hippocampus. We observed Caprin-1 localization to dendrites of CA1 neurons in the hippocampus. Furthermore, Caprin-1 exhibited colocalization with Rps6, an RNA granule marker. This suggests Caprin-1 associates with RNA granules in mouse hippocampus. Finally, we investigated the localization of Caprin-1 in human iPSC-derived neurons. Similar to the mouse hippocampus, we observed localization of Caprin-1 to dendrites of human neurons. In future directions, we will examine whether pathogenic tau alters the association of Caprin-1 with RNA granules and the mechanisms by which pathogenic tau negatively effects synapse function.
WALKING AWAY FROM LONELINESS: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF SOCIAL ISOLATION
Authors: Shellito Natalie , Roldan Nidya Velasco
Published: November 2019

This study examines the relationship between physical activity (PA) and loneliness among older adults. Participation in walking enables individuals to come into contact with other people, thus social isolation may mediate the relationship between walking and loneliness. The study uses participants from the Leave Behind Questionnaire of the 2016 data wave of the Health and Retirement Study with a sample size of 6,157. The dependent variable, loneliness, is measured using the 11-item UCLA Loneliness Scale and the independent variable, walking, is measured as participants who walk 20 minutes or more per day. The mediator, social isolation, is measured using a standardized 9-item score, including closeness and frequency of contact with children, friends, and other family members, and participation in group activities. We analyzed the effect of walking on loneliness and the role of social isolation as a mediator of that relationship using structural equation modeling. Our results suggest that walking is significantly associated with lower levels of both social isolation (B=-.10) and loneliness (B=-.05). As well, there is a positive association between social isolation and loneliness, as social isolation increases, so does loneliness (B=0.31). Moreover, results from the mediation analysis using bootstrapping suggest that social isolation partially mediates the relationship between walking and loneliness (B=-.03). Our findings confirm the benefits of PA on wellbeing. This research provides evidence that suggests establishing walking programs may decrease the risk of loneliness. Future interventions concentrated on lowering social isolation through PA among older adults should consider the opportunity to reduce loneliness.
DESCRIBING A CONCEPT OF NURSE INTUITION AND IMPLICATIONS FOR DEMENTIA CARE IN NURSING HOMES
Authors: Perkins Rebekah , kather Katherine Supiano’katherine supiano@hsc utah edu’
Published: November 2019

The purpose of this concept analysis was to explore nurse intuition historically and in current literature, appraise the value of nurse intuition to research and practice, and discuss implications for practice in caring for residents with behavioral and psychological symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) in nursing homes. To date, no research has examined the presence or utility of nurse intuition in the nursing home setting. A conceptual analysis using pragmatic utility was chosen and based on the work of Walker and Avant (2005). In the literature, nurse intuition is characterized by attributes of knowledge not preceded by inference, knowledge that is holistic in nature, independent of linear thinking, and drawn from synthesis instead of analysis. Nurse intuition is based on preconditions of experience, empathy, limited information, and limited time to make vital decisions about patient care. Studies on nurse intuition have been criticized for their lack of rigor and empirical evidence of the effect of nurse intuition on positive patient outcomes. The attributes of intuitive nursing practice have important implications in nursing applied to residents with BPSD. The nursing home nurse with extensive educational and experiential knowledge is well-situated to understand the complex, changing needs of residents exhibiting various forms of BPSD in an effort to communicate their needs. Future studies on nurse intuition should focus on early education in dementia care, nurse residency-mentor programs to enhance intuitive thinking in the management of BPSD, and more empirical studies on the use of intuition in the context of dementia care.
“WITH AGE COMES WISDOM:” A QUALITATIVE REVIEW OF ELDER PERSPECTIVES ON HEALTHY AGING IN THE CIRCUMPOLAR NORTH
Authors: Howell Britteny M , Peterson Jennifer R
Published: November 2019

Cross-cultural research has shown marked variation in health outcomes across the world’s older adult populations. Indeed, older adults in the Circumpolar North experience a variety of health disparities. Because aging is a biological process rooted in sociocultural context, there exists great variation in the ways older adults define and experience healthy, or “successful,” aging in their communities. The aim of this analysis was to synthesize qualitative research among older residents (aged 50+ years) in the Circumpolar North to identify a definition of healthy aging common in the region. A thorough review was conducted across a variety of academic search databases for peer-reviewed, qualitative studies conducted among community-dwelling older adults. The search strategy initially identified 194 articles; 23 articles met the inclusion criteria. Included studies were coded and analyzed using Grounded Theory to examine underlying themes of healthy aging in the Circumpolar North. The findings reveal the importance older adults place on respect, their relationship to the land, and psychosocial resilience into multidimensional models of healthy aging. We present a complex concept map demonstrating how healthy aging perspectives fit together into a multidimensional model of health in the Circumpolar North. This research also highlights the need for increased translational research with populations in the Circumpolar North that are under-represented in the literature.
INCREASED C3 IN THE AGING BRAIN PROMOTES INFLAMMATORY TRANSITION IN ENDOTHELIAL CELLS
Authors: Propson Nicholas E , Litvinchuk Alexandra , Roy Ethan R , Contreras Bianca , Cao Wei , Zheng Hui
Published: November 2019

Innate immunity has been implicated in normal aging, and age-related disease. The connection between age-related neuroinflammation and change in brain vasculature prior to disease onset remains poorly understood. The complement pathway is an established mediator of neuroinflammation, and increased complement C3 is seen in the aging brain. Thus, we asked whether C3 can promote changes in brain vasculature. We found age dependent increase of brain C3 levels in C57BL/6J mice. Furthermore, we found an increase in expression of adhesion molecule VCAM-1 in endothelial cells (ECs) of the cortex and hippocampus, which was rescued in aged C3a receptor null (C3ar1-/-) mice and aged C3a receptor (C3aR) antagonist treated mice. We confirmed these results by qPCR analysis for Vcam1 in sorted ECs. Human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) treated with C3a showed increased expression of VCAM-1, but not other adhesion molecules. Sorted ECs from C3ar1-/- mice challenged with LPS confirmed these findings. Furthermore, C3aR signaling in ECs showed increased blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability using trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER), and BBB impermeable dye injections. HBMECs treated with C3a revealed mis-localization of VE-Cadherin, followed by reduction in protein level when analyzed by immunofluorescence, which promotes increased barrier permeability. As a functional consequence of VCAM-1 expression and increased BBB permeability we found aged mouse brains have increased peripheral lymphocyte (CD45+/CD11b-) infiltration, which was reduced in a C3aR dependent manner. In conclusion, our work suggests there is a strong relationship between C3 expression and vascular C3aR contributing to a functional transition in endothelial cells during aging.
ANGER, LOVE, SADNESS: DO EMOTION WORDS HAVE THE SAME SEMANTIC MEANING ACROSS AGE-GROUPS?
Authors: Nichols Madeline J , Bellingtier Jennifer A , Buttelmann Frances
Published: November 2019

Every day we use emotion words to describe our experiences, but past research finds that the meanings of these words can vary. Furthermore, historical shifts in language use and experiential knowledge of the emotions may contribute to age-differences in what these emotion words convey. We examined age-related differences in the valence, arousal, and expression connoted by the words anger, love, and sadness. We predicted age-related differences in the semantic meanings of the words would emerge such that older adults would more clearly differentiate the positivity/negativity of the words, whereas younger adults would report higher endorsement for the conveyed arousal and expression. Participants included American and German older adults (N=61; mean age=68.98) and younger adults (N=77; mean age=20.77). Using the GRID instrument (Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, 2013), they rated each emotion word for its valence, arousal, and expression when used by a speaker of the participant’s native language. Across emotions and dimensions, older adults were generally more moderate in their understanding of emotion words. For example, German older adults rated anger and sadness as suggesting the speaker felt less bad and more good than the younger adults. American older adults rated love as connoting the speaker felt more bad and less good than younger adults. Arousal ratings were higher for German younger, as opposed to older, adults. Cultural differences were most pronounced for sadness such that German participants gave more moderate answers than American participants. Overall, our research suggests that there are age-related differences in the understanding of emotion words.