bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECTS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON HEALTH AMONG INFORMAL CAREGIVERS OF INDIVIDUALS WITH DEMENTIA: A META-ANALYSIS
Authors: Ahn Sangwoo , Chung Misook , Crouter Scott
Published: January 2025

Caregiving for individuals with dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD), negatively affects informal caregivers’ health. Our review aimed to systematically evaluate the effects of physical activity on physical and psychological health and well-being among informal caregivers of individuals with ADRD because no comprehensive evidence has been drawn so far. To identify appropriate randomized controlled trials, nine databases published by July 2023 were searched. Twelve studies were included (n = 1,163 total participants; mean age = 64 years), two of which were rated as strong in methodological quality, and one as weak with the other nine showing moderate quality. Meta-analysis was performed using STATA (18.0) with the standardized mean difference (SMD; Hedge’s g) used to calculate the effect size of interventions. Physical activity, consisting of walking, Tai Chi, or multicomponent activities (aerobic, strengthening, stretching, and/or balance activities), exerted beneficial effects on static balance as an element of physical health (SMD = 0.45; p < 0.001) and psychological well-being as an element of well-being (SMD = 0.46; p < 0.001), as well as general physical health (SMD = 0.41; p = 0.03) and well-being (SMD = 0.41; p < 0.001) with moderate effect sizes. Health care providers may suggest informal caregivers engage in physical activity to improve physical and mental well-being, and further, potentially decrease some of the onerous aspects of caregiving. Given the limited number of studies in our review, future research is warranted to identify the optimal type and dose of physical activity for informal caregivers’ health.
UNRAVELING ALZHEIMER’S: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF BIOMARKER RESEARCH ADVANCES OVER THE PAST DECADE
Authors: Winters Emily , McCoy Tessa
Published: January 2025

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) presents a formidable global health challenge, necessitating continuous advancements in biomarker research for enhanced diagnosis and management. This review, utilizing a methodology adapted from Arksey and O’Malley (2005) for scoping reviews, comprehensively assesses developments in AD biomarker research over the past decade. Through systematic searches of academic databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, articles published between 2012 and the present were analyzed, focusing on keywords encompassing AD, biomarkers, imaging techniques, blood-based markers, and international collaborative initiatives. Key findings reveal significant progress across multiple fronts of AD biomarker research, including the refinement and validation of novel imaging techniques targeting amyloid-beta and tau proteins, such as positron emission tomography (PET) imaging tracers for tau pathology. Moreover, blood-based biomarkers have emerged as promising candidates for non-invasive AD detection and monitoring, with studies investigating proteins like amyloid-beta, tau, and neurofilament light chain. The integration of longitudinal studies and multimodal imaging approaches has provided deeper insights into dynamic biomarker changes throughout disease progression, while machine learning and data analytics have identified novel biomarker patterns and predictive models, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and personalized treatment strategies. International collaborative efforts, exemplified by initiatives like the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) and the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network (DIAN), have fostered data sharing and large-scale biomarker studies, accelerating the pace of discovery and validation. In conclusion, this comprehensive assessment underscores significant strides in AD biomarker research, promising improved early detection, accurate diagnosis, and targeted therapeutic interventions, ultimately advancing patient outcomes and disease management.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN T CELL SUBSETS AND MORTALITY: FINDINGS FROM THE LONG LIFE FAMILY STUDY
Authors: Seshadri Gokul , Vivek Sithara , Wojczynski Mary , Kuipers Allison , Zmuda Joseph , Miljkovic Iva , Ukraintseva Svetlana , Thyagarajan Bharat
Published: January 2025

Differences in T cell subsets are associated with higher mortality in the general population. We evaluated whether Long Life Family Study (LLFS) participants and their spouses differed from the general population regarding T cell distributions and their association with mortality. We measured 12 T cell subsets in 1647 LLFS offspring (60.77±8.19 years) and 550 spousal controls (61.08±8.57 years). We used a Cox proportional hazards model to evaluate the association between these T cell subsets and 4-year mortality after adjustment for age, sex, family relatedness and CMV seroprevalence. After age adjustment, LLFS offspring and spousal controls had higher levels of CD4+ naïve T cells (27.5% higher) and CD4+ effector memory cells (1600% higher) and lower levels of CD4+ central memory T cells (55% lower) as compared to the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). The difference in CD4+ naïve T cells between those who were < 55 years vs. those > 85 years was 50% lower in LLFS offspring as compared to spousal controls (similar to the HRS controls) (p=0.05). The percentage of CD4+ effector memory cells was associated with increased mortality risk (HR:1.47; p=0.01) and CD4+ naïve T cells showed a borderline inverse association with 4 year mortality (HR: 0.72; p=0.06) in the combined sample of LLFS offspring and spousal controls. These results suggest that levels of T cell subsets are maintained at older ages in long lived families despite CMV exposure and the association between T cells and mortality is similar to what is observed in the general population.
DISTINCT CELL SUBTYPES WITHIN NAÏVE CD4 T CELLS COMPARTMENT SHAPE ITS AGING AND SENESCENCE
Authors: Kelly C J , Jeon Ashley , Rodriguez Jacob , Prosser Dina , Diegel Morgan , Burnaevskiy Nikolay
Published: January 2025

Aging is a multifaceted process that manifests differently in various cell types and within the same cell type. Therefore, understanding age-related changes with single-cell resolution may illuminate the mechanistic details of tissue aging and offer targets for intervention. We utilized high-throughput single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) to analyze senescence-associated changes within the CD4 T cell compartment. First, we sequenced total human CD4 T cells from multiple donors, revealing that naïve CD4 T cells exhibited a less senescent state compared to memory cells. We focused on naïve CD4 T cells to determine if individual cells differ in expression of aging-associated markers. By sorting cells based on senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (B-gal) activity and applying scRNA-seq, we identified transcriptional signatures associated with more youthful and senescent states. Surprisingly, we discovered cells with lower B-gal expression comprised two distinct populations: one marked by high expression of HELIOS and low expression of SESN3, and another marked by high expression of BACH2 and low expression of TC2N. In comparison, 2 youthful subpopulation and senescence subpopulations differ in markers of immunological activation We then investigated if the composition of naive CD4 compartment changes with age, finding that the abundance of youthful subpopulations was reduced in the older donors’ CD4 populations. Thus, aging in the naïve CD4 compartment is associated with a shifted distribution between more youthful and more senescent cells. Moving forward, we will attempt to manipulate naïve CD4 T cells into a more youthful state by altering expression of the identified transcriptional signatures associated with youthful and senescent states.
SHORT CHAIN FATTY ACID CONCENTRATIONS ASSOCIATE WITH PLATELET MITOCHONDRIAL FUNCTION AND MAY MEDIATE SEX-DIFFERENCES IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Skoglund Eva Marts , Mahapatra Gargi , Molina Anthony
Published: January 2025

Some studies have reported that mitochondrial function can differ by sex; however, the metabolic pathways that mediate sex differences remain unclear. Our recent studies demonstrate that mitochondrial function, measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and platelets, differ by sex in adults, 55 years of age and older. In a lipidomic analysis of PBMCs and platelets collected from the same participants, we assessed concentrations for 10 short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), namely, acetate, propionate, isovalerate, valerate, butyrate, isobutyrate, 3-methylvalerate, 4-methylvalerate, 2-methylbutyrate, and caproate. T-tests comparing SCFA concentrations between males and females revealed sex differences in both PBMCs and platelets. Specifically, SCFA concentrations were significantly higher in platelets obtained from males compared to females. Analysis of metabolic pathways involved in the metabolism of these SCFAs revealed that FA biosynthesis, pyruvate metabolism, glycolysis, and gluconeogenesis pathways are significantly affected in both sexes. Further analysis revealed a greater impact of SCFAs in males than females. To test the impact of SCFAs on mitochondrial bioenergetics, we examined correlations between SCFA concentrations and mitochondrial bioenergetic parameters assessed by respirometry. In both PBMCs and platelets, bioenergetic parameters were correlated with acetate, 3-methylvalerate, 4-methylvalerate, and caproate concentrations. In platelets, SCFAs significantly negatively correlated with basal respiration, ATP-linked respiration, and fatty-acid oxidation (FAO). Similar negative correlations were also observed in PBMCs. Our study indicates that sex-dependent differences in mitochondrial bioenergetics are related to sex specific differences in SCFA concentrations. Future studies are needed to determine if differences in SCFA can underlie differences in mitochondrial function between men and women.
SRF ISOFORMS DIFFERENTIALLY IMPACT MITOCHONDRIAL FUNCTION AND AGING
Authors: Sharma Shakshi , Zhang Xiaomin , Azhar Gohar , Wei Jeanne Y
Published: January 2025

Serum response factor (SRF) is a highly conserved widely expressed transcription factor that plays a key role in regulating a number of muscle specific genes in various tissues, including cardiac and skeletal muscles. Alternative splicing (AS) of SRF generates multiple mRNA transcripts and protein isoforms. The SRF isoforms are critical in regulation of SRF target genes and increases in the human heart with advancing age. We cloned novel isoforms SRF-Δ3 and SRF- Δ345 from human tissues and studied their effect on mitochondrial function. Three SRF isoforms (Wild Type, Δ-3, Δ-345) were subcloned into expression vectors. Muscle cell line C2C12 was transfected with SRF-empty vector, SRF-WT, SRF-Δ3, and SRF-Δ345, respectively. Gene expression was determined by RT-PCR and Western blotting. The mitochondrial function was determined by the SeahorseXFe96 analyzer. SRF-Δ3 and SRF- Δ345 significantly reduced the oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and glycolysis (ECAR) in C2C12 cells as compared to SRF-WT. The protein and gene expression of PGC-1α, PGC-1β, MFN 1, MFN 2, Fis1 and Opa1 were also differentially impacted by SRF isoforms. Further, the SRF isoforms significantly impact the protein expression of mitochondrial electron chain complex OXPHOS (I-IV) proteins, thus affecting mitochondrial function. These findings showed the potential effects of the SRF isoforms on mitochondrial function, which might affect cellular senescence and aging.
VOTER OPINIONS ON BRAIN HEALTH AND EARLY DETECTION OF DEMENTIA IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY
Authors: Barragan Noel , Reyes Mariana , DiCamillo Mark , Kuo Tony
Published: January 2025

The burden of dementia continues to expand as the population ages. To address this growing public health problem, the local health department in Los Angeles County (LAC) launched its Healthy Brain LA initiative to encourage individuals and communities to prioritize brain health as a strategy for reducing the risk and impact of dementia. To better understand local perceptions about dementia and to inform the initiative’s efforts, public health partnered with the Berkely IGS Poll to survey LAC voters on key topics related to brain health. The online poll was administered in January 2024 via email invitations sent out to stratified random samples of registered voters in the county; 1,775 respondents competed the survey. Of the total sample, 16% indicated they currently help with care for an adult with memory problems. Overall, 70% reported being somewhat or very worried about the possibility of developing dementia. A majority (84%) agreed they could take steps to improve their brain health and reduce their risk of dementia. Notably, only 13% reported having ever discussed ways to prevent dementia with their doctor. Nearly two-thirds (62%) strongly agreed that they would want to receive a dementia diagnosis as early as possible. There is increasing value in approaching dementia through a public health prevention lens, emphasizing risk reduction and early detection as strategies for addressing this condition. Poll results offer important insights into potential ways in which public health can help activate public engagement and health system involvement in dementia prevention, care and support.
BENEFITS OF FINDING THE SILVER LINING: SECONDARY CONTROL PROTECTS WELL-BEING DURING PANDEMIC FINANCIAL HARDSHIPS
Authors: Pierce Matthew , Duggan Katherine , Klepacz Laura , Hamm Jeremy
Published: January 2025

Although secondary control beliefs (e.g., “all clouds have a silver lining”) reflect a psychological resource that can protect wellbeing, little is known about the potential benefits of dynamic shifts in secondary control in response to socioeconomic losses of any type, including financial hardships. Our study examined whether within-person shifts in secondary control predicted corresponding shifts in well-being and whether this relationship became pronounced during periods of financial hardship in a pandemic. We analyzed data from the 2-year NDSU National COVID Study that collected 5 waves of data from a representative sample of U.S. adults aged 18-80 (n=292). Preliminary multilevel models assessed how shifts in secondary control predicted corresponding shifts in mental health (perceived stress, depressive symptoms), hedonic wellbeing (positive and negative affect), and eudemonic well-being (personal growth, meaning in life). Our main multilevel models examined whether these within-person relationships were moderated by shifts in an inability to pay for one’s needs (a self-report of financial hardship) while controlling for age, sex, education, income, and between-person secondary control and financial hardship. Within-person increases in secondary control predicted increased well-being across all outcome variables (bs=|0.11-0.23|, ps< 0.01). Financial hardship moderated the relationship of secondary control on perceived stress and personal growth (bs=|0.14-0.24|, ps< 0.05), such that increases in secondary control had pronounced benefits on occasions when individuals were unable to pay for their needs. These findings provide evidence that secondary control may exhibit dynamic shifts in responses to socioeconomic losses and that increases may have pronounced benefits during periods of financial hardship.
DID COVID-19 INCREASE ICT USE AMONG MIDDLE-AGED AND OLDER JAPANESE?
Authors: Katagiri Keiko
Published: January 2025

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is permeating all facets of contemporary life, offering unprecedented convenience. Nonetheless, the digital schism is becoming increasingly pronounced, particularly among the older demographic. Instances where traditional social engagements are hindered, such as the inability to operate ATMs without ICT proficiency, may render older adults socially precarious. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, digital interactions supplanted face-to-face engagements. This study aims to scrutinize the surge in ICT adoption among middle-aged and older Japanese adults during the pandemic. An internet survey targeting individuals aged 50-69 residing in the Tokyo and Osaka metropolitan areas was conducted in March 2021. Participants exhibited a notable escalation in smartphone, tablet, personal computer, and WiFi utilization by 26.2%, 14.5%, 21.6%, and 24.3%, respectively. Moreover, 3.5%, 6.5%, 7.9%, and 34.8% of respondents commenced utilizing audio, images, videos, and online platforms, respectively, during the pandemic. Subsequently, multiple regression analyses were performed to discern factors influencing the adoption of these technologies. Participants manifested heightened usage of devices they were already familiar with. Furthermore, favorable evaluation of internet utility, female gender, non-employment status, and initiation of audiovisual media usage during the pandemic were positively associated with increased utilization of the aforementioned ICT devices. In conclusion, COVID-19 has played a pivotal role in mitigating the digital schism. Subsequent research endeavors should explore strategies to bolster middle-aged ICT engagement in the post-pandemic landscape.
CROSS-CULTURAL DIFFERENCES IN RECRUITING OLDER ADULTS IN DESIGN RESEARCH ACTIVITIES: INSIGHTS FROM CHINA AND THE UK
Authors: Sun Tongxin , Liu Yuanyuan , Zhang Qiong , Jiang Jiabei , Xiong Xueying , Wen Juncheng , Corner Lynne , Jeung Jihong
Published: January 2025

Engaging older adults in the design process of products and services is essential for enhancing accessibility, usability, and the overall impact of human-centered design research focused on aging populations. Achieving successful recruitment of older adults is pivotal for their meaningful participation. Yet, the post-pandemic landscape has brought significant challenges in engaging and recruiting this demographic, underscoring the complexity of meeting their emotional, social, and cognitive needs during the recruitment phase. Furthermore, existing research predominantly concentrates on recruitment within health intervention and clinical studies, offering limited insight into effective recruitment strategies in design research across diverse socio-cultural and economic settings. Our research employed mixed-methods studies in China and the UK, incorporating surveys, interviews, and researcher immersion to investigate cross-cultural differences in recruiting older adults. We explored their attitudes, needs, and preferences, revealing the significance of treating the recruitment process as a service provided to prospective older participants. Our findings identify key socio-cultural factors—including personal identity, regional context, value systems, technology adoption, and social networks—that influence older adults’ experiences during recruitment. The reconfiguration of these factors may be required to design recruitment services and improve the participation experience. This research offers insights into cross-cultural strategies for effectively engaging and recruiting older adults in design research. By highlighting the importance of inclusivity and diversity, our work contributes to the advancement of human-centered design practices, ensuring they resonate more profoundly with aging populations.
DYING WITH DEMENTIA: CAREGIVERS’ OBSERVATIONS OF PHYSICAL AND/OR BEHAVIORAL/PSYCHOLOGICAL DECLINE IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Hovland Cynthia , Mallett Christopher
Published: January 2025

Family caregivers of older persons with dementia have significant challenges across many domains. These reported problems encountered over their caregiving time are for many reasons, but what makes the caretaking difficult is complicated by both the unknown nature of the dementia disease and the dying trajectory. While there are studies, primarily from health-care professionals, of this dying process and the last few weeks of life for older persons with dementia, much less is known directly from the family caregivers’ perspectives and experiences. This qualitative study of 30 caregivers of family members aged 65 years and older who died with dementia related diagnoses used in-depth qualitative interviews conducted over a 12-month period and directed content analysis to understand the data. The study asked what physical, behavioral, and psychological changes they observed and experienced during their family members’ last weeks of life. Three primary themes were identified around behavioral and psychological changes: (a) they become different people, (b) did not recognize caregiver, and (c) wandering and getting lost; and two primary themes identified physical decline: (a) system started shutting down and (b) drastically diminished self-sufficiency. Implications for families and professionals are reviewed and discussed.
EFFECT OF AN INTERPROFESSIONAL STUDENT-LED THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITY PROGRAM ON OUTCOMES OF DEMENTIA PARTICIPANTS
Authors: Jordan Kerry , Allen Melissa , Gallagher Michael , Schultz January , Weese Richelle , Marks Suzette
Published: January 2025

Despite demonstrated effectiveness, access to nonpharmacological interventions to help maintain cognition and function in people living with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) is severely limited. The Inter-professional Student led Therapeutic Activity program (STAP) improves access by engaging health science students to perform such activities as part of their clinical. STAP involves weekly, 3.5-hour sessions over 12 weeks per semester. During sessions, students from a variety of disciplines engage participants in evidence-based activities including group exercise, physical therapy, cognitive therapy, cognitive stimulation, and socialization. We aimed to evaluate initial effect of STAP on cognitive status, quality of life, and function of people with mild to moderate ADRD. Initial pre and post test data obtained over two 12- week intervention sessions demonstrate no statistically significant change in cognition using the Arizona Battery of Cognitive Communication Disorders Scale (ABCD-2) N12 (t -.707, p =.480); Quality of life using the Dem-QOL N11 (t.831, p =.406); and function using the 30-Second Chair Rise N18 (t-.087, p =.932), Timed up and Go Test (TUG) (t.962, p =.35), and 10 Meter Walk Test (t -1.932, p =.07). There was a significant improvement between pre and post test scores in independent activities of daily living using the Texas function Living Scale (TFLS) N11(t 2.0, p = 0.046). Results indicate that, in the short term, STAP may be beneficial in maintaining cognition, function and quality of life in people with mild to moderate ADRD. Further study of long term results is recommended.
EXPLORING THE POWER OF DOCUMENTARY FILM TO CHALLENGE DEMENTIA-RELATED STIGMA AND SUPPORT DANCE FOR LIFE ENRICHMENT
Authors: Kontos Pia , Colobong Romeo , Vijinski Jon Parr , Sodums Devin , Aleong Rosanne , Bar Rachel
Published: January 2025

Dance has been shown to support empowerment, sociability, and creative self-expression; however, it is rarely adopted with the explicit intention to support these aspects of engagement in the context of dementia care. Instead, dance is primarily adopted as a form of therapy to improve cognitive and physical health outcomes. This is far too narrow given there is research that demonstrates the power of dance to increase social inclusion by supporting embodied self-expression, creativity, and social engagement of people living with dementia. In order to foster broad community awareness building and education about the value of dance for life enrichment and the importance of supporting this in dementia care settings, we developed a short documentary film – Dancer Not Dementia. To evaluate the impact of the film, we conducted focus groups and/or interviews with people living with dementia, family carers, government policy makers, formal care providers affiliated with long-term and community-based dementia care, members of the dance community, and the general public. Data were collected within one week of watching the film and then again 8-12 weeks later. Our analysis illustrates the effectiveness of Dancer Not Dementia in reducing stigma by demonstrating changes in understandings of dementia and changes in practice. Our analysis also includes attention to how the film, as a form of cultural production, deepened engagement and facilitated transformation. This research contributes to a growing understanding of how the arts may challenge entrenched and oppressive attitudes and social relations, and support more inclusive and relational approaches to caring.
PRELIMINARY EFFICACY OF A MULTICOMPONENT INTERVENTION DESIGNED FOR LONG-DISTANCE FAMILY CAREGIVERS
Authors: Cimarolli Verena , Chunga Richard , Boerner Kathrin , Czaja Sara
Published: January 2025

Research on family caregiving to older adults with dementia has produced a number of evidence-based interventions designed to reduce caregiver burden and negative mental health consequences of caregiving. However, almost all existing research has focused on geographically close caregivers and evidence-based interventions were designed and tested with these proximate caregivers, not considering the unique circumstances of long-distance family caregivers (LDCs) who live more than two hours away from their care recipient. Long-distance caregiving is a common and growing phenomenon. Like geographically close caregivers of persons living with dementia, LDCs experience significant caregiving burden and strains. Yet, there are no interventions designed to address the specific needs of LDCs and to reduce caregiver burden among LDCs. This project developed and feasibility tested such an intervention called LDCare - a 7-session remotely delivered multi-component intervention combining psychoeducation with peer support designed to reduce burden in LDCs. Forty LDCs participated in the intervention and feasibility study which used a one-arm pre-post-intervention trial design and administered several caregiver burden and strain measures pre- and immediately post-intervention. Non-parametric equivalents of paired t-tests (Wilcoxon tests) were run to determine changes on burden/strain measures from pre- to post-intervention. Results show significant reductions from pre- to post-intervention in caregiver burden (Zarit Burden Interview-12), family conflict, job caregiving conflict, and role captivity (Pearlin Scales), and in a 9-item scale assessing difficulty of providing care. This study provides preliminary evidence for the efficacy of a multi-component intervention specifically designed for the needs of LDCs and for reducing burden among LDCs.
DEVELOPING AND VALIDATING AN EXTRA-SHORT FORM OF THE LATER LIFE WORKPLACE INDEX (LLWI-XS) IN GERMANY AND THE US
Authors: Deller Juergen , Wehage Mattea , Finsel Julia S , Woehrmann Anne
Published: January 2025

Employment of older individuals becomes more important. To identify organizational practices that foster the motivation, health, and performance of older employees, an efficient holistic assessment of relevant organizational factors is needed. The 80-item Later Life Workplace Index (LLWI) as well as the 29-item Later Life Workplace Index Short Form (LLWI-SF) provide such a measure. However, both measures are too long to be applied in large scale surveys, e.g., Health and Retirement Survey (HRS). Therefore, this paper describes the development and validation of the extra short form LLWI-XS, a 9-item measure covering all nine domains in order to achieve a highly efficient instrument to measure relevant organizational aspects. For each domain, one LLWI-XS item was developed deductively based on the domain description, indicators, and items from the original and short forms. This iterative process was done by an expert focus group who followed general item writing recommendations and standard practices to develop short and precise items applicable for large-scale surveys. The overall construct’s model fit and each domain’s correlations with criterion and discriminant validity measures are reported. The LLWI-XS items were developed and validated both in German and in U.S. American English. We provide researchers and practitioners with a validated extra-short measure to efficiently assess all nine organizational domains relevant for older employees to gain a comprehensive understanding of all critical areas of organizational influences on later life work. The scale is well suited to enable a screening of organizational practices for older workers in a population-based research context.
DO PREFERENCES FOR TELEWORK IMPACT JOB OPPORTUNITIES FOR OLDER JOB APPLICANTS? EVIDENCE FROM A HIRING EXPERIMENT
Authors: Brady Samantha , Cerino Lauren , D’Ambrosio Lisa , Coughlin Joseph
Published: January 2025

Older adults represent an increasing share of the labor force, with adults aged 55 and older comprising almost one-quarter (24%) of the labor force in 2023 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). As the labor force ages, increasingly popular flexible work arrangements, like telework, can be especially beneficial at supporting older adults in the workforce. Although the labor force is aging and work is becoming increasingly conducive to prolonged working lives, age stereotypes and age discrimination remain rampant in today’s labor market, often limiting employment opportunities for older job seekers. And while telework provides benefits to older workers, requesting or utilizing telework arrangements may further exacerbate existing ageist stereotypes, as research prior to the pandemic found that teleworkers may be perceived as less competent and less committed employees. Using data from an original forced-choice conjoint experiment of hiring behaviors, this research causally examines the extent to which preferences for telework may further limit access to professional opportunities for job applicants of different ages. Preliminary analysis of pilot data (N=483) suggests that while preferences for certain telework arrangements negatively impact job opportunities for applicants of all ages, hiring penalties are especially large for the youngest and the oldest job applicants, compared to middle-aged applicants in our experiment. Analysis of complete sample data (N=2,000 hiring decision makers across the U.S. collected in March 2024) will also examine how telework preferences intersect with other job applicant attributes, including gender and caregiving responsibilities, to impact employment opportunities for particular groups of older job seekers.
LIFETIME PATTERNS OF EXPOSURE TO JOB COMPLEXITY AND LATER LIFE COGNITION
Authors: Chen Qize , Hsu Joanne , Oh Yun taek , Smith Jacqui , Sonnega Amanda
Published: January 2025

A growing body of evidence establishes a positive connection between cognitively engaging activities and later life cognitive functioning. Cognitively stimulating work—jobs that involve complex tasks and demands—is gaining increased research attention in this regard. Given data limitations to date, however, less research has focused on exposure to job complexity over the entire adult life course. We leverage new retrospective data from the Health and Retirement Study on job histories spanning early adulthood through midlife in combination with the rich prospective survey measurement of cognitive functioning through mid- and later-life to study this association (N=6,744; 41.24% men). We link early life job histories to historical information from the Occupational Information Network to characterize lifetime job complexity exposure. We find a lifetime pattern of annual exposure to job complexity (those demanding complex problem solving, critical thinking, inductive reasoning, guiding and directing others, making decisions, and coordinating/leading others) of a rapid increase in the 20s, gradually increasing through the 30s, 40s, and 50, and decreasing after age 60. We find no significant cohort differences (people born 1924-1941 vs after), but there are gender and racial/ethnic differences. Women’s annual exposure to job complexity tends to start at a higher level compared to that of men, but by their early 30s, men’s exposure exceeds women’s and remains higher. Non-Hispanic whites have significantly higher lifetime job complexity exposure relative to Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic individuals. These patterns shed light on life course work exposures and demographic factors associated with differences in later-life cognitive functioning.
“I AM TOO EXHAUSTED TO BE PROACTIVE”: CHALLENGES IN NAVIGATING END-OF-LIFE CARE FOR PARENTS WITH DEMENTIA IN CHINA
Authors: Lou Yifan , Liu Jinyu , Ding Kedong
Published: January 2025

While hospice is rapidly developing in China, the services are mostly provided to and used by patients with cancer. The end-of-life experiences of persons living with dementia (PLWD) and their caregivers are largely overlooked in the current practice and literature. This study aims to explore unique challenges and stressors that family caregivers experience when navigating end-of-life care for PLWD. Interview data were collected from in-depth interviews with 17 caregivers of PLWD in China and 5 primary care doctors working with them in Shanghai, China. Hybrid grounded theory model was used to guide analysis. Five themes emerged from the data describing multi-level challenges and stressors guided by the social ecological theory. On the individual and interpersonal levels, emotional exhaustion of decision-making was most salient among PLWD caregivers, especially when there was lack of communication on required decision-making paperwork at emergency rooms. Caregivers also experienced decisional conflicts among siblings and uncertainty about the validity of PLWD’s expressed wishes at the advanced dementia stage. On the mezzo level, a common theme emerged around the stigma toward PLWD (as opposed to hospice for people with cancer) in the community, which prevents caregivers from seeking services and support for their dying loved ones. On the macro level, the lack of disease-specific end-of-life resources for PLWD, which results in long waiting lists and increasing service prices, was a major challenge for caregivers in finding care aligned with PLWD’s needs. Multi-level interventions are needed to address caregivers’ challenges in navigating end-of-life care for PLWD in China.
ADVANCE CARE PLANNING: OUTCOMES FROM A TARGETED EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVE WITH OLDER SPANISH SPEAKERS
Authors: Beltran Susanny
Published: January 2025

Targeted interventions are essential to enhance knowledge and engagement in end-of-life care among Spanish-speaking older adults, to address existing disparities in advance care planning (ACP). This study evaluated the effectiveness of a resource-efficient, culturally tailored educational intervention in improving ACP readiness and knowledge among Spanish-speaking older adults. A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design was used to assess the impact of an intervention involving an educational presentation on topics such as ACP, end-of-life care options including curative and palliative models of care and sharing relevant resources. The study involved community-dwelling older Latinos (aged 61-94) in a southern U.S. state who were engaged with adult day care centers. Measures included participants’ knowledge of ACP, care options, familiarity with hospice and palliative care, and attitudes toward hospice, assessed using pre- and post-intervention surveys. Statistically significant improvements were observed in ACP knowledge, understanding of care options, and attitudes towards hospice and palliative care post-intervention. Age, marital status, and education level influenced knowledge scores, with no significant gender differences in the intervention’s efficacy. The educational intervention effectively enhanced end-of-life care planning readiness and knowledge among older Latinos. The study highlights the potential for sustainable, accessible, and culturally sensitive educational strategies to reduce disparities in ACP knowledge and possibly engagement. Future research will explore the feasibility of training laypersons and adult day care staff to deliver the educational presentation.
COPING STRATEGIES AMONG FAMILY CAREGIVERS FOR OLDER ADULTS WITH SERIOUS MEDICAL ILLNESS: A SCOPING REVIEW
Authors: Csikai Ellen , Maynard Quentin , Olmos Marina , Hossain M D Sarafat
Published: January 2025

Family caregivers often provide many hours of care for years frequently leading to reduced abilities to cope with the care and quality of life for the caregivers (Lewis, et al, 2019). Family caregivers who provide care to older adults near the end of life face even greater challenges, including increased physical and emotional burden. The aim of this study was to identify coping strategies used by family caregivers of older adults with serious medical illness that help them manage in the caregiving role. A scoping literature review of qualitative and quantitative research (published in peer-review journals since 2012) involving community-dwelling family caregivers of older adults with serious medical illness, near end of life, was conducted. A total of 426 articles met the search criteria. After initial systematic screening of titles/abstracts, followed by full text review, through consensus meetings, eight (n=8) articles met inclusionary criteria and were included in the review. Among the studies, six were qualitative; two quantitative. Samples varied in medical diagnoses; sizes ranging 8-228. Shared results regarding coping strategies were how various coping strategies were used to manage both physical and emotional challenges. Problem-solving and emotion-focused coping types were common along with social support by relying on others. Family caregivers of older adults with serious illness must cope daily with challenges. With better understanding of current coping strategies used to manage physical and emotional demands, professionals can recognize and intervene to bolster coping abilities and assist with resources to safeguard caregivers’ well-being.
SOCIAL WORK INVOLVEMENT IN ADVANCE CARE PLANNING POST 2015 MEDICARE POLICY CHANGE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Zhang Peiyuan , Wang Yixuan , Cagle John , Wang Kaipeng
Published: January 2025

Social workers have been identified as core members of the interdisciplinary team providing ACP but were excluded from the 2015 Medicare regulations reimburse clinicians for ACP discussions. This systematic review aims to synthesize evidence on social workers’ contributions to ACP since the 2015 Medicare Policy change, potentially informing policy reform to include them in reimbursement mechanisms. Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, we searched PsycInfo, CINAHL, SocINDEX, and PubMed from January 2016 to July 2023. Peer-reviewed studies focusing on social worker involvement in ACP or advance directives (AD), with any study design except for case reports and reviews, were included. Studies with a mixed sample of healthcare professionals that did not compare social workers and other care professionals were excluded. Data were independently extracted by two investigators using pre-specified criteria. Quality was assessed using Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) tools and STORBE checklists. Key themes include social workers’ (1) knowledge and competency of ACP, (2) attitudes and perceptions of ACP, (3) involvement in ACP practices, (4) perceived roles and responsibilities, and (5) effects of social work interventions on ACP engagement. Findings highlight social workers’ positive attitudes towards ACP and perceived responsibility in ACP engagement, which underscore social workers’ prominent role in educating ADs and facilitating ACP conversations. This review provides the most recent synthesis of relevant findings about social work ACP practices after 2015 Medicare reimbursement for ACP, which has important policy implications in including social workers in the ACP reimbursement mechanism.
THERAPEUTIC EXPECTATIONS AND INTEREST IN END-OF-LIFE CARE: ROLE OF AGEISM, AGING ANXIETY, AND DEATH ANXIETY
Authors: Root Eve , Caskie Grace
Published: January 2025

The field of mental health is not yet equipped to meet the needs of the growing older adult population. More psychologists are needed in the field of geropsychology across all specialties, including end-of-life care. However, no known research has examined psychology trainees’ attitudes or interest in providing end-of-life care to older adults. Under the frame of Terror Management Theory (Martens et al., 2005), this study examined the relationship of ageism, aging anxiety, and death anxiety with psychology trainees’ therapeutic expectations and interest in engaging in end-of-life work with older adults. Using structural equation modeling, a model was tested to examine ageism, aging anxiety, and death anxiety as independent predictors of interest and therapeutic expectations towards end-of-life care with individuals in later life. In a sample of 197 psychology doctoral students enrolled in an APA-accredited program, the model showed good fit after modifications (CFI =.92, TLI =.90, RMSEA =.08, SRMR =.09). Higher aging anxiety predicted lower interest working with this population as well as worse therapeutic expectations. Ageism was not significantly related to therapeutic expectations but was positively related to interest. Death anxiety did not significantly predict either outcome variable. These findings suggest training programs and early clinical opportunities should consider the role of existential anxiety, particularly aging anxiety, as well as ageism’s impact on trainees’ career interests and perceptions towards working with older adults living with life-limiting illness.
CRITICAL OR ENCOURAGING? CORRELATES OF FAMILY CAREGIVERS’ DEMENTIA MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
Authors: Leggett Amanda , Troost Jonathan , Tsuker Sophia , Miner Jennifer , Carlozzi Noelle
Published: January 2025

Family caregivers approach caregiving challenges with a variety of management strategies which may be adaptive or maladaptive and impact the quality of care provided to individuals living with dementia. This study explores caregiver demographics, the caregiving context, resentment toward the individual with dementia, and caregiver readiness as predictors of dementia management strategies. Participants included 200 family caregivers for a person living with dementia. Descriptive statistics and adjusted linear regressions were run to examine associations between caregiver demographics, the care context (dementia diagnosis, dementia severity rating scale), the Sense of Competence Care Recipient Satisfaction Scale, and the Caregiver Readiness Scale with three outcomes: criticism, active management, and encouragement (Dementia Management Strategies Scale). Caregivers were 58 years old on average, 82% female, 28% non-White, and 38% adult daughters. In models including caregiver demographics and the care context, caregiver readiness consistently related to dementia management as it was associated with less criticism (B=-0.23, p<.01), more active management (B=0.26, p<.01), and more encouragement (B=0.20, p<.01). Greater financial difficulty (B=2.57, p<.05), less dementia severity (B=-0.17, p<.001), and provision of care for an individual with Alzheimer’s disease (relative to early-onset Alzheimer’s disease) (B=-3.01, p<.05) were associated with more encouragement. Further, individuals with more resentment toward the individual with dementia used more criticism (B=0.86, p<.001). Readiness for care appears to be a key modifiable intervention target to improve care management quality provided by family caregivers. Caregiver demographics did not relate to care management once the caregiving context was accounted.
HOW DO FAMILY RELATIONSHIP PATTERNS IMPACT CAREGIVING BURDEN IN ADULT CHILD CAREGIVERS?
Authors: Heys Jodi , Strong Jessica
Published: January 2025

Living with dementia is not isolated to the person with the diagnosis. Family and friends play an integral role in providing support, advocacy, love, and informal care for a person with dementia. Spouses and adult child caregivers have a unique relationship with the person with dementia (PWD), and often report a different subjective experience of caregiving (Rigby, et al, 2019). Due to limited research on how family relationships pre-caregiving impact the caregiving experience, the goal of this study is to gain a better understanding of these complex dynamics, particularly for adult child caregivers. The current study looked at perceptions of cohesion, expressiveness and conflict in family of origin (Brief Family Relationship Scale), as well as anxiety (GAD-7), mood (PHQ-9), and caregiver experiences, including burden, overload, and competence, among others (Caregiver Reaction Scale) in a population of adults (28-68 years old, N=25). Preliminary analysis results indicate a relationship between family conflict pre-caregiving and caring overload (r =-0.49, p = 0.04), such that lower levels of conflict were related to lower levels of overload. Additionally, we found no significant correlations between earlier family patterns of cohesion or conflict with adult anxiety (Cohesion: r =0.15, p = 0.55; Conflict: r =-0.11, p = 0.65) or depression (Cohesion: r =0.05, p = 0.85; Conflict: r =-0.18, p = 0.50). We discuss the current findings in the context of family systems theory and child-parent relationships in adulthood.
NATURE AND CHALLENGES OF TRANSNATIONAL FAMILY CAREGIVING: FINDINGS FROM A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Hossain Mohammad , Pope Natalie , George Regina
Published: January 2025

This study explored the nature and challenges of transnational family caregiving via a systematic literature review. Increasing international migration and global aging have resulted in growing instances of transnational family caregiving, which involves providing care for older adults across national borders. However, little is known about the nature and challenges of such caregiving. Following PRISMA guidelines, a structured literature search was conducted using targeted search terms (e.g., transnational*, cross-border*, caregiv*, burden*) in 10 electronic databases (e.g., AgeLine, MEDLINE, CINAHL). Predefined eligibility criteria included empirical papers: (i) published in peer-reviewed English language journals, (ii) focused on the nature and/or challenges of transnational caregiving, and (iii) focused on caregiving for older adults. After removing duplicates, screening the titles and abstracts, and reviewing remaining full-texts, nine articles were deemed eligible for inclusion. Studies showed that transnational caregiving involves provision of financial and emotional support, arranging care, mailing gifts and letters, making care decisions, and communicating via phone/video calls. Financial strain came from expenses in the host and support countries, including traveling back to the home country. Transnational caregivers experience guilt, worry, and distress related to the unpredictability of the care situation and their inability to be physically present. Strict immigration policies, inadequate employer support, and limited institutional care in home countries also present challenges. Despite limitations of research in this area (e.g., qualitative studies; small, non-random samples), this review highlights the nature and challenges experienced by transnational caregivers. Further empirical research is needed to deepen our understanding of this unique subpopulation of caregivers.