bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RECALLING YOUTH IN VIRTUAL REALITY IN OLDER ADULTS WITH MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
Authors: Kim DaEun , Liao Hsiao-Wen , Aflatoony Leila , Wilson Jeff
Published: January 2025

As people age, their autobiographical memory becomes less vivid and detailed. We developed a virtual reality (VR) environment that recreates a nostalgic lounging area from the 1970s. Aside from examining feasibility, we tested whether cognitively healthy older adults (n = 16; Mage = 66.7) and individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI; n = 12; Mage = 75.3) differ in VR experience, memory phenomenology, and memory details, and whether VR experience correlates with memory variables. The virtual lounge comprised standard cues and was customized with personal photos. After the VR session, participants rated VR experience (i.e., presence, time travel, and bringing back memories), described a positive memory from their youth, and rated memory phenomenology (i.e., vividness, reliving, and significance). Memories were content-coded for semantic and episodic details. Regarding feasibility, most participants were able to follow the instructions to navigate the environment, use the controller to turn on a virtual lamp and record player (healthy controls: 100%, 91.7%, 86.7%; MCIs: 75%, 90.9%, 90%), and reported low discomfort in VR. Mann-Whitney’s U tests indicated no group differences in VR experience, memory phenomenology, and semantic details. Healthy controls recalled more episodic details than the MCI group. Overall, sensing presence and experiencing time travel in VR correlated with stronger memory reliving. The extent to which VR brought back memories correlated with greater memory significance. Similar levels of VR experience and memory phenomenology between the two groups, along with the correlations between the two variables, suggest the potential utility of VR for facilitating memory recollection.
RESULTS OF A DOUBLE-BLIND RCT OF THE FUNCTIONAL EFFECT OF KETONE ESTERS IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Stubbs Brianna , Stephens Elizabeth , Senadheera Chatura , Peralta Sawyer , Diaz Stephanie Roa , Silverman-Martin Wendie , Alexander Laura , Newman John
Published: January 2025

Background

Ketone bodies are metabolites produced during fasting or on a ketogenic diet that have pleiotropic effects on the inflammatory and metabolic aging pathways underpinning frailty in in vivo models. Ketone esters (KEs) are compounds that induce hyperketonemia without dietary changes and may impact physical and cognitive function in young adults. The functional effects of KEs have not been studied in older adults.

Objectives

Our long-term goal is to examine if KEs modulate aging biology mechanisms and clinical outcomes relevant to frailty in older adults. Here, we report the exploratory functional and quality-of-life outcome measures collected during a 12-week safety and tolerability study of KE (NCT05585762). Design: Randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, parallel-group, pilot trial of 12-weeks of daily KE ingestion. Setting: The Buck Institute for Research on Aging, California. Participants: Community-dwelling older adults (≥ 65 years), independent in activities of daily living, with no unstable medical conditions (n = 30). Intervention: Subjects were randomly allocated (1:1) to consume 25 g daily of either KE (bis-octanoyl (R)-1,3-butanediol) or a taste, appearance, and calorie-matched canola oil placebo (PLA). Measurements: Longitudinal change in physical function, cognitive function and quality of life were analyzed as exploratory outcomes in completers (n = 11 PLA, n = 12 KE). A composite vigor-frailty functional outcome was calculated. Heart rate and activity were followed using digital wearables.

Results

There were no statistically significant longitudinal differences between groups in exploratory functional, activity-based or quality of life outcomes in this pilot study.
RISKY DECISION-MAKING AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE FAMILY MEDICAL HISTORY
Authors: Cauble Heaven , Black Sheila
Published: January 2025

Alzheimer’s Disease is associated with a decline in multiple cognitive domains including executive function (EF). This decline in EF often results in a decline in decision-making capacity (DMC). It can affect daily functioning in every aspect of life and oftentimes has extreme consequences related to healthcare and financial decisions. However, unlike other impairments of AD (e.g., memory and executive function), DMC has not been extensively researched as an early symptom. By studying people who are genetically at-risk of developing AD via family, we may be able to detect early differences in DMC as a possible result of genetic predisposition of AD. 60 middle-aged adults were recruited into groups based on family medical history of AD and completed the Game of Dice Task, a gambling task that measures risky decision-making. We found that family medical history of AD contributes to variances between scores, indicating that having an increased genetic predisposition to AD is associated with risky decision-making in mid-adulthood for those individuals. This research could support looking at decision-making capacity as a possible early symptom of AD, thus allowing for earlier intervention.
ROLE ENGAGEMENT IN VOLUNTEERING: IMPACTS ON SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING AND COGNITION IN MIDDLE AND LATER LIFE
Authors: Lu Shiyu
Published: January 2025

The existing literature predominantly emphasizes the quantitative aspect of volunteering, such as volunteer hours, overlooking the depth of role engagement and psychological dimensions of volunteer involvement and their impact on health. The study focused on the impacts of volunteer hours, role engagement, and engagement profiles on the well-being and health of midlife and older adults. The research encompassed 665 participants aged 55 and above in Hong Kong. Initially, participants were classified into three categories based on volunteer hours (non-volunteers, 1-49 hours annually, 50 hours or more annually). Subsequently, they were segmented into four levels of role engagement (non-volunteers, low, medium, high) and six volunteering profiles (non-volunteers, occasional, regular, engaged, active, dedicated volunteers) considering volunteer hours and engagement levels. Results from multivariate regression analyses indicated that individuals volunteering over 50 hours annually exhibited enhanced subjective well-being (β = 0.18, p < 0.001) and self-rated health (β = 0.10, p < 0.01) compared to non-volunteers. Those with medium and high engagement levels also reported improved subjective well-being (Medium: β = 0.13, p < 0.001; High: β = 0.18, p < 0.001) and self-rated health (Medium: β = 0.08, p < 0.05; High: β = 0.07, p < 0.05) compared to non-volunteers. Cognitive benefits were consistent across volunteer hours and engagement levels, with active and dedicated volunteers experiencing the most significant advantages in well-being, health, and cognition. The study underscores the importance of role engagement in volunteering for late-life well-being and health, suggesting implications for integrating volunteering into social prescribing for healthy aging.
SEX- AND AGE-SPECIFIC METABOLIC EFFECTS OF EARLY-LIFE RAPAMYCIN TREATMENT IN UM-HET3 MICE
Authors: Zhu Yun , Stockwell Robert , Medina David , Yuan Rong , Bartke Andrzej
Published: January 2025

UM-HET3 mice were treated with rapamycin (4 mg/kg, i.p., 3 times/week) from 15 to 56 days of age. At day 15, no significant differences in body weight (BW) between the treatment and control groups within each sex. During the treatment, males in the treated group consistently had lower BW than controls (pairwise-t test, P < 0.01), while no differences were seen in females. Interestingly, the treatment significantly reduced the relative weights of fat pads (visceral, subcutaneous, and brown fat) in males, with a suggestive reduction in the relative pancreas weight and significant increases in heart, liver, and kidney relative weights. No significant organ weight changes were observed in females. At 2 months, rapamycin significantly raised fasting glucose in males (t test, P = 0.0002) but not in females. By 6 months, fasting glucose levels were significantly reduced in treated mice compared to controls, with a 26.7% reduction in males and 15.7% in females (t test, P = 0.0001 and 0.041, respectively). Glucose tolerance, assessed by the area under the curve (AUC) of relative glucose levels, was significantly increased by rapamycin in both sexes at 2 and 6 months (t test, P < 0.05), except in 6-month-old males. No significant effects or interactions were found in the insulin tolerance test. Indirect calorimetry showed no significant changes in heat production, but a suggestive increase in RQ was observed in treated males. These findings suggest that early-life rapamycin treatment may have long-term effects on metabolic parameters, and the effects are sex- and age-specific.
SEX DIFFERENCES IN FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH FALLS AMONG COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS WITH OSTEOARTHRITIS
Authors: Yoshikawa Aya , Wu Horng-Shiuann
Published: January 2025

Osteoarthritis elevates the risk of falling among older adults due to joint pain and stiffness. Research suggests that sleep problems, depression, and fatigue may also relate to falls among those with osteoarthritis, yet sex influences in these associations remain understudied. This study investigated factors associated with falls by sex (male vs. female). A sample of 3,895 community-dwelling older adults with osteoarthritis in the 2016 Health and Retirement Study (2,624 females; 1,271 males) were analyzed using survey-weighted logistic regression. All analyses were controlled for sociodemographic characteristics, including geographic residence, and health-related issues (e.g., balance problems, chronic diseases, and medication use). Most participants were female (64.5%), in their 70s (M = 73.74, SD = 6.4), White (89.0%), had a high school or higher education (89.3%), and non-rural residents (70.9%). For both men and women, balance problems, functional limitations, and cancer increased the risk of falling, while pain, sleep problems, depression, or fatigue were not associated with falls. Among women, being White (OR = 3.87, 95% CI; 1.86, 8.05 compared to Black), rural residence (OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.01–2.50 compared to urban residence), and opioid use (OR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.00, 2.54) increased the risk of falling. Among men, having heart problems (OR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.24, 2.72) increased the risk of falling. Sex-tailored fall prevention strategies, such as providing rural programs and opioid education for women and increasing awareness and fall education for men with heart problems, are encouraged to support active living among older adults with osteoarthritis.
SEX DIFFERENCES IN LINKS BETWEEN AGING EXPECTATIONS, PURPOSE IN LIFE, AND HEALTHY BEHAVIORS IN MIDLIFE KOREANS
Authors: Shin Sun-ui , Yeom Hyun-E , Park Eunyoung , Jung Mi Sook
Published: January 2025

Establishing a purpose in life and fostering healthy behaviors are critical for enhancing the quality of life in middle-aged populations. Negative perceptions of aging are closely linked to active self-care and overall well-being in aging individuals. This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of purpose in life for the relationship between aging expectations and healthy behaviors and to explore sex-related differences in these associations among midlife Koreans. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 298 community-dwelling adults aged 50 to 64 (mean age: 56.1 years; 154 males, 144 females). Data were collected through self-administered surveys and analyzed using Pearson’s correlation and PROCESS macro in SPSS version 26.0. Results indicated that aging expectations were significantly associated with purpose in life (r = -0.335, p < 0.001), and purpose in life was positively correlated with healthy behaviors (r = 0.276, p < 0.001). The influence of aging expectations on purpose in life differed by sex (β = -0.047, p = 0.020), with a more pronounced impact observed in males compared to females. Aging expectations indirectly affected healthy behaviors through purpose in life across both sexes, confirming the mediating role of life purpose. These findings suggest that aging expectations significantly influence the purpose in life, which subsequently leads to healthy behaviors in midlife adults, especially in men. The study underscores the importance of fostering positive perceptions of aging and a sense of purpose in life to support healthy aging, emphasizing the need to consider sex-related differences in these associations.
SLEEP QUALITY, COGNITIVE AGING, AND MORTALITY AMONG MIDDLE TO OLDER AGED US ADULTS
Authors: Tate Rio , Beydoun May
Published: January 2025

Background

Sleep and dementia may interact with each other to determine mortality risk, perhaps differentially by sex and by race.

Methods

The study examined bi-directional associations of dementia, sleep and mortality, while testing both interactions and mediating effects in a large sample of older US adults using the nationally representative Health and Retirement Study (HRS) dataset, and middle-aged US adults using the Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity across the Life Span (HANDLS) dataset. 6,911 older participants and 1,364 middle-aged participants were included for analysis.

Results

Regarding HRS, poor sleep quality was associated with higher mortality risk with a dose response relationship, and a strong association between dementia status and mortality risk was found. Dementia status’ positive association with mortality risk was stronger in the “better sleep” group (lowest tertile of “poor sleep” variable), with significant interaction between dementia status and poor sleep tertile. Regarding HANDLS, poorer sleep was associated with lower survival probability over time compared to better sleep, particularly among individuals with above median global mental status.

Conclusions

Poor cognition was positively associated with mortality risk, particularly among males and among White older adults, and individuals with better sleep quality in both HANDLS and HRS studies. Future studies should uncover some of the underlying mechanisms behind the dementia-sleep antagonistic interactions.
SOCIOEMOTIONAL FACTORS DRIVING SEXUAL INTEREST AND SATISFACTION IN OLDER ADULTHOOD
Authors: Nguyen Annie , Neelamegam Malinee , Smith Matthew
Published: January 2025

Research shows that sexual interest declines with age, while sexual satisfaction remains relatively stable in later life. Declines in sexual interest can result from health deficits that pose barriers to sex; however, for older adults who are healthy and able to have sex, socioemotional factors may influence sexual satisfaction. This study examined the associations between socioemotional variables, sexual interest, and sexual satisfaction among older adults. Data were drawn from the subset of adults ages 60+ in UCSD SAGE study (n=359). A series of linear regression models were fitted to examine sexual interest and sexual satisfaction as separate outcomes while accounting for demographics (age, gender, marital status, race/ethnicity), socioemotional variables (morale, self-compassion, satisfaction with life), and health indicators (physical function, general health). Older adults who were younger ages (B=-.172, p=.001), men compared to women (B=.283, p<.001), married/partnered compared to single (B=.213, p<.001), and had better physical functioning (B=.214, p<.001) reported higher sexual interest. In the model for sexual satisfaction among sexually active older adults (n=148), those with greater morale (B=-.027, p=.03) and better physical function (B=.271, p=.003) reported higher sexual satisfaction. Findings reinforce the importance of physical function for sexual interest and satisfaction among older adults. Socioemotional factors, such as morale, are more strongly associated with sexual satisfaction. However, these relationships may be bidirectional or recursive in nature (i.e., those with higher morale are satisfied with sexual encounters, and that sexual satisfaction may lead to higher morale), requiring additional longitudinal studies.
SPATIAL NAVIGATION IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE - A META-ANALYSIS
Authors: Kossowska-Kuhn Dorota , Gouveia Gillian , Charness Neil , Wagner Richard
Published: January 2025

The global population of individuals aged 65 and over is projected to nearly double by 2050, reaching 1.6 billion. This demographic shift is expected to drive a significant increase in dementia cases, with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) accounting for 60-80% of these cases. While episodic memory loss is a hallmark of AD, spatial disorientation is often one of the earliest symptoms (Coughlan et al. 2018).This meta-analysis investigates the differences in spatial navigation performance between cognitively healthy older adults and those with AD. The effect size is measured using Hedge’s g. The analysis considers various moderators, including the mode of test administration (real-world, virtual reality, computer screen), the type of measure (time, accuracy), and the nature of the task (maze navigation, environmental navigation), alongside basic study characteristics such as publication year, study location, participant age, gender, and education.The analysis includes 124 effect sizes from 42 studies, involving 2409 participants, of which 941 were diagnosed with AD and 1468 were cognitively healthy older adults. The results show that cognitively healthy older adults have significantly better navigation abilities (p < 0.05) compared to those with AD, as indicated by a standardized mean difference (SMD) of 1.97.This study shows a significant decline in spatial navigation abilities in individuals with AD compared to healthy older adults, consistent across various test methods and tasks. Addressing these deficits is vital to reduce the growing impact of dementia.
SUBJECTIVE COGNITIVE DECLINE AND RISK OF MORTALITY AMONG BEREAVED PARENTS IN OLD AGE
Authors: Song Jieun , Cha Seung Eun , Ryff Carol
Published: January 2025

The death of a child is a highly traumatic event that may impact the subsequent health of parents. Prior research shows greater risk of early deaths in bereaved parents relative to non-bereaved parents. This study examined whether the associations between the death of a child and parents’ mortality risk are mediated by subjective cognitive decline (SCD), known to be predictive of mortality and Alzheimer’s disease, contingent on parents’ age. The analytic sample consists of participants in Midlife in the U.S. (MIDUS) waves II and III (2004-2005, 2013-2014, respectively); parents who experienced the death of a child prior to MIDUS II (n=341) and non-bereaved parents who did not experience the death of a child (n=2,219). SCD was assessed at MIDUS III and mortality data were obtained via National Death Index 2022 files. Results of moderated mediation analysis revealed significant mediation effects of SCD between death of a child and parental mortality risks over time among parents who were aged 65 and older at SCD assessment, but not among parents who were younger than 65. Bereaved parents who reported a decline in memory at age 65 or older had greater risks of mortality over 8-9 years relative to their counterparts. Findings suggest that increased risks of mortality in bereaved parents during old age can be detected by a relatively simple assessment of SCD, which can be utilized to screen vulnerable bereaved parent groups who may benefit from interventions to mitigate detrimental impacts of bereavement on mortality risks.
TARGETING SOCIALLY ISOLATED OLDER ADULTS: THE INTERNET-BASED CONVERSATIONAL ENGAGEMENT TRIAL (I-CONECT)
Authors: Dodge Hiroko , Wu Chao-Yi , Chen Liu , Yu Kexin
Published: January 2025

Social isolation is a risk factor for dementia. In the recently completed randomized controlled trial named I-CONECT (www.i-conect.org; ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02871921), we investigated the impact of frequent social interactions via webcam/internet on the cognitive function and emotional well-being, recruiting socially isolated older adults aged 75 and above. Participants in the experimental group engaged in semi-structured conversations with interviewers, prompted by daily themes and associated pictures, 4 times per week (30 minutes/session) for 6 months. The control group received only brief weekly phone check-ins. A total of 186 subjects (86 with normal cognition, 100 with mild cognitive impairment [MCI]) were randomized. We earlier reported that global cognitive function (the primary outcome), as measured by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), improved by nearly 2 points in the MCI experimental group compared to the control group at 6 months (effect size: Cohen’s d = 0.73) (Dodge et al., 2024, doi: 10.1093/geront/gnad147). Functional MRI data suggested a trend toward increased connectivity in the dorsal attention network favoring the experimental group. Social satisfaction improved in both groups. Our new results not reported in the topline results paper include: (1) Participants in the experimental group increased the frequency of their social interactions over time compared to the control group, and (2) Individual Treatment Response analysis showed that participants in the top 30% of responders could delay cognitive decline by 6 months or more. We will summarize all findings from this trial thus far and discuss future directions.
TECHNOLOGY AND PROSPECTIVE MEMORY: ATTITUDES AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH SUBJECTIVE COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
Authors: Sanders Edie , Boot Walter
Published: January 2025

Prospective memory (PM), the ability to remember to execute an intention in the future, is critical for the performance of everyday tasks important for independence and quality of life. PM failures are more frequent with increased age and can be even greater for older adults with a cognitive impairment such as subjective cognitive decline (SCD). Technology holds promise for providing everyday PM support for older adults with SCD, but little is known regarding their attitudes and preferences toward technology-based PM support. The present work utilized an online survey and focus groups to examine these attitudes. 188 older adults with SCD and 190 older adults without SCD completed an online survey on a variety of technologies to support PM in different areas of activities. A separate sample of 24 older adults with SCD participated in online focus groups and were probed about their perception of the use of technology devices for supporting PM. Results show that the attitudes of older adults with SCD 1) differed based on the type of device and the type of activity the technology is meant to support, 2) were more positive than attitudes of older adults without SCD, and 3) were associated with a variety of individual difference factors. Results indicate that older adults with SCD may be a promising population to target using technology-based solutions, and the type of device and type of activity being supported are important to consider in the development of technology solutions to enhance independence and well-being.
TECHNOLOGY PREFERENCES AMONG MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT (MCI) DYADS LIVING IN A MEMORY CARE DESERT
Authors: McCarthy Michael , Cerino Eric , McCoy Megan , Martinez Margarita , Seaton Thomasina , Goldtooth Amanda , Livingston Raechel , Dopson Rasheera
Published: January 2025

Digital health technologies hold promise for early detection and support of individuals and family members contending with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), which may be an early step in the progression toward dementia. These technologies may be especially relevant for care dyads living in “memory care deserts” who are often isolated, under-resourced, experience geographic barriers to care, and lack access to health information and services. The aim of this study is to explore technology preferences of MCI care dyads participating in the Northern Arizona Memory Study in order to better understand the feasibility and acceptability of these technologies for intervention development and delivery. We used a mixed methods approach with semi-structured interviews conducted with 11 dyads comprised of an older adult with MCI and their caregiver (n=22). These data were combined with survey data about participant knowledge and use of technologies, as well as their preferences for mode of delivery for interventions (e.g., interactive website with professional coaching, text messages with peers dealing with memory loss). Qualitative data suggest that there is general interest in technology among MCI care dyads. However, comfort levels with specific technologies vary due to demographic, social, economic, personal, and structural factors. Survey data corroborate these findings with most participants indicating agreement about the usefulness of technologies for MCI detection and support, as well as access to and knowledge of these technologies. Researchers may benefit from these insights as they develop technology-based supportive interventions and resources for underserved MCI care dyads.
TEST-RETEST RELIABILITY OF THE NIH TOOLBOX - COGNITION BATTERY OVER SHORT RETEST INTERVALS
Authors: Bowes Aaron , Giordani Bruno , Kavcic Voyko
Published: January 2025

The NIH Toolbox-Cognition Battery (NIHTB-CB) is a commonly used computerized cognitive assessment tool in clinical research, but its reliability over short retest intervals has not been thoroughly assessed. This study evaluates the reliability of NIHTB-CB subtests over a 3-week retest interval in participants from an ongoing longitudinal study with biannual NIHTB-CB assessment. Thirteen community-dwelling African American/Black adults aged 65 or older (M = 70.61/SD = 3.36), recruited from the Institute of Gerontology at Wayne State University (R01AG054484; Kavcic, PI) and the Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (MADRC, P30AG072931; Paulson, PI), participated. Participants had previously completed NIHTB-CBv2 on iPad tablets every six months for approximately 18 months (M = 17.46/SD = 7.52). The distribution of diagnoses was: 9 normal cognition, 2 non-amnestic MCI and 3 Cognitively Impaired, not MCI. For this study, they now completed the NIHTB-CB twice over a 3-week interval. Reliability was assessed using intraclass correlations (ICCs). Paired t-tests were used to assess overall change in scores over time. All NIHTB-CB ICCs ranged from 0.75 to 0.90, indicating good reliability, except List Sorting Working Memory that had an ICC in the moderate range (0.55). No significant differences were found for any paired t-tests. As clinical trials increasingly use computer-based testing measures, understanding their reliability over short intervals is crucial. Our findings indicate that the NIHTB-CB, when participants are familiar with the test, still shows acceptable retest reliability for both summary indices and subtests over even short retest intervals.
THE BENEFITS OF GENERATION IDENTITY OVER AGE IDENTITY IN OLDER ADULTS: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF NOSTALGIA
Authors: Chang Yuanqing , Lu Jiehua , Zhang Xin
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives

As individuals age, they develop two types of self-identification: age identity and generation identity. Previous research suggests generation identity is more beneficial in promoting well-being of older adults. However, the underlying mechanisms and the generalizability in the Chinese cultural context remain underexplored.

Research Design and Methods

This study employed a randomized single-factor between-subjects design with 160 community-dwelling Chinese older adults (M = 67.61 years, SD = 5.63 years; 31.88% men). Participants were randomly assigned to focus on similarities or differences with peers (age identity salience condition) or contemporaries (generation identity salience condition), followed by assessments of nostalgia and subjective well-being including life satisfaction, loneliness, meaning in life, and awareness of age-related changes.

Results

Word frequency based on lexicon text analysis revealed that participants in generation identity salience condition mentioned more era-specific events. The Biterm Topic Model (BTM) identified two themes: “Hardship of the Past vs. Present Happiness” and “Present Happy Life” in both groups. However, the generation group had a higher proportion of the first theme (56.25% vs. 42.5%). Independent T-tests indicated significant group differences in nostalgia and subjective well-being (p <.05). Structural equation modeling revealed nostalgia could function as a significant mediator between identity salience condition and subjective well-being (β =.092, 95% CI = [0.000, 0.184]).

Discussion and Implications

The findings suggest that emphasizing generation identity can significantly enhance older individuals’ life satisfaction, meaning in life, and awareness of age-related gains, offering empirical support for strategies aimed at promoting active and successful aging.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN SEROTONIN SIGNALING, AGING, AND IMMUNITY WHEN OBSERVED FROM C. ELEGANS AND HUMAN STUDIES
Authors: Kebbede Liyat , Weathers Brandy , Nair Tripti
Published: January 2025

As humans age, various environmental threats impact healthspan. Therefore maintaining an intact immune system is vital. Efficiency of human immune response can decline over time leading to complications with age-related diseases. Homeostatic mechanisms are in place to combat threats to the immune system. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter that critically regulates functions in inflammation and immune response, begins to lack functionality with aging. Signaling dysfunction in neurotransmitters can lead to complications in immune response and negatively impact healthspan. Using C. elegans, the connection between immune response and serotonin signaling can be investigated, as this model organism shares homology with the innate human immune system. The Curran lab designed a mutation in the homeostatic pathway resulting in low serotonin signaling. Consequently, impairment to pathogen sensing occurs. C. elegans rely upon the innate immune system to avoid and survive exposure to harmful bacteria. Their transparent nature and 30 day lifespan, allows for visualization of protein signaling and genetic tracing across the life. With a mutation in SKN-1, it has been observed that they become unaware of the dangers of a lethal pathogen, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA14), and are even apathetic towards its threat. The serotonin mutant animals remain on PA14 significantly longer than wild type (WT) animals. This study covers therapeutic interventions with serotonin administration and depletion to observe the neurotransmitters necessity in human clinical trials and C.elegans laboratory studies conducted in the Curran lab. Understanding how serotonin signaling impairs the behaviors of C. elegans underscores its importance in maintaining efficient immune response in humans.
THE DIGITAL DIVIDE AMONG CHINESE OLDER ADULTS: INTERNET USAGE AND EHEALTH LITERACY
Authors: Zhang Jiaan
Published: January 2025

In recent years, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, digital dependency has grown significantly in China, exacerbating the digital divide as a pressing social issue. This study examines Internet usage and eHealth literacy among Chinese older adults aged 60 and above compared to their younger counterparts, using data from the newly available 2021 China General Social Survey. Internet usage was assessed by asking respondents whether they currently use the Internet. eHealth literacy was measured using the 8-item eHealth Literacy Scale, with each item scored on a 5-point Likert scale. Age groups were compared using chi-square tests and t-tests. Correlates of Internet usage and eHealth literacy were analyzed with logistic regression and OLS regression models, respectively. The results indicate that older adults significantly lag in Internet usage, with only 35.25% of those aged 60 and above using the Internet, compared to 89.09% of the under-60 group. Additionally, the younger group demonstrated significantly higher eHealth literacy scores. Regression analyses further revealed that the negative association between older age and Internet usage is more pronounced among rural residents, and that older age is more strongly associated with lower eHealth literacy scores in both women and rural residents, controlling for sociodemographic and socioeconomic status, social support, and health status. This study provides the most recent evidence of significant disparities between older adults and other age groups in China regarding Internet usage and eHealth literacy. It underscores the need for policies and programs focused on bridging the digital divide among older adults.
THE EFFECTS OF HEALTH COACHING ON PATIENT ACTIVATION AND WELL-BEING OF COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Chung Edwin Ka Hung , Yeung Dannii Y , Chen Frank Youhua
Published: January 2025

Health coaching appears as a promising intervention to initiate behavioural change and improve health outcomes for outpatients (Krok-Schoen et al., 2017; Sharma et al., 2016). However, its effectiveness in improving self-management of chronic diseases were mainly examined in young and middle-aged adults with specific chronic diseases (Lin et al., 2021; Tülüce & Kutlutürkan, 2018). Whether health coaching is still effective in community-dwelling older adults, particular those with lower education and multiple chronic diseases, remains uncertain. This study thereby aims to examine the effects of a health coaching intervention in a sample of 194 older Hong Kong Chinese adults (Mage = 79.1, SD = 6.90, range = 62–95). Depending on their health needs, participants received 12 – 18-week home-based health coaching intervention during July 2022 – July 2024. Their patient activation, physical activity, nutrition behaviours, loneliness, and depression were measured before and immediately after the intervention. Repeated measures ANCOVAs showed that participation in the health coaching intervention significantly increased patient activation and nutrition-related health behaviours, and reduced loneliness and depression. Theses results remained significant even after controlling for age, sex, education, living arrangement, receipt of community centre and home care services, numbers of chronic diseases, polypharmacy, and frequency of intervention sessions. The findings of this study thus revealed beneficial effects of health coaching in enhancing older adults’ competence in managing their health, engagement in health behaviours, and psychological well-being. Policymakers and health-related professionals should implement health coaching in the primary healthcare system to maintain older adults’ well-being and promote ageing-in-place.
THE EVOLUTION OF FILIAL PIETY TO INTERGENERATIONAL SUPPORT IN TAIWAN
Authors: Lin Yunann , Weng Hui-Ching , Chih-Liang Wang
Published: January 2025

Objective

The practice of filial piety concept may vary with sociocultural transformation under aging impact. It’s crucial to interpret how filial behaviors affect parent–child interaction. Thereby, this study aimed to explore associations between filial piety and intergenerational support in Taiwan.

Methods

This longitudinal study analyzed data collected from the 2016 Taiwan Social Change Survey, consisting of demographics, self-rated health, sibling number, children number, coresident with parents or children, reciprocal filial piety (RFP), authoritarian filial piety (AFP), financial, household, and emotional support. Participants were categorized into three cohorts: the traditional generation (born before 1945), the baby boomer generation (1946-1964), and Generation X (1965-1980). ANOVA and multilevel regression were adopted to analysis intergenerational associations. Findings: AFP present significant decrease in the baby boomer (2.55 vs 2.9, p< 0.001) and generation X (2.4 vs 2.9, p< 0.001) when comparing with the traditional generation; while RFP show no difference among three cohorts. After adjusting gender, education, marriage, self-rated health, income, sibling number, and coresident with parents, RFP of generation X was positively associated with household (p=0.05) and emotional support (p< 0.001) to parents. Moreover, AFP of baby boomer generation was marginal associated with financial (p=0.053) and household (p=0.058) support to parents.

Conclusion

The diminish of AFP embodied the trend of mutual affection and equality in the parent–child relationship. The mediation effect of RFP in generation X was practiced in household and emotional support; while the mediation effect of AFP in baby boomer generation was practiced in financial and household support.
THE IMPACT OF DIETARY PROTEIN RESTRICTION ON WHITE ADIPOSE TISSUE FUNCTION DURING AGING
Authors: Young Khristina , Easter Molly , Vaddi Prerana , Donkor Michael , Wong Meghan , Hill Cristal
Published: January 2025

White adipose tissue (WAT) regulates metabolic health, lipid storage and energy mobilization, yet these functions decline during aging and aging with obesity. Studies show that interventions such as dietary protein restriction (DPR) can improve metabolism, benefit overall health, and extend lifespan. Hence, the unique impact of DPR on the physiological function of adipose tissue represents a plausible target to support general health. Data from our lab and others show that DPR induces browning in WAT through thermoregulatory genes. This modification within the WAT produces beige adipocytes by marked increases in UCP1 (Uncoupling protein 1) gene expression and other related genes, such as the coregulator PR-domain containing 16 (PRDM16). Specifically, PRDM16 regulates adipogenic differentiation, thus playing a key role in regulating the function of adipose tissue. Our goal is to investigate if browning of WAT via Prdm16 is essential to improve metabolic health during DPR, and if DPR-induced improvements in metabolic health are sex dependent. Here, 3-months of age, male and female normal-control littermates and Prdm16 KO mice were fed either a normal protein (20%) or a low-protein (5%) diet for 7 months. Collectively, these data suggest that Prdm16 contributes to dependent and independent metabolic endpoints on body weight, glucose and lipid homeostasis, and adipokine signaling in WAT in middle aged mice. Furthermore, transcriptomic profiling highlights that DPR induces biological processes that are sex-dependent on energy storage and usage. The work is supported by the National Institute on Aging (NIA) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) - MOSAIC– NIA R00AG070273.
THE INTERACTION BETWEEN SHORT SLEEP AND EXERCISE FREQUENCY WITH HEART RATE VARIABILITY: CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: Fein Taylor , Thalil Muhammad , Lee Soomi
Published: January 2025

Exercise has been shown to be a powerful tool that can improve cardiovascular health. Both exercise and adequate sleep have been associated with increased heart rate variability (HRV), while insufficient amounts of both are associated with decreased HRV. Yet, the combined influence of exercise and sleep on HRV is less clear. This study explores if exercise levels and sleep duration interact to be associated with HRV. 391 adults (Mage=57yrs) from the Midlife in the United States Biomarker study 2004-2009 provided sleep actigraphy, electrocardiogram (ECG) HRV measurements and answered questions on exercise habits. Participants were grouped as short (< 6 hours) or adequate sleepers (≥ 6 hours) and inadequate (< 150 minutes per week) or adequate exercise frequency (≥150 minutes per week) based on CDC guidelines. ANCOVA analysis adjusted for demographic and health-related covariates was used to examine the interaction between sleep duration and exercise frequency on HRV. There were no significant individual associations of sleep duration or exercise frequency with HRV, however combined associations were found. For individuals with less than 6 hours of sleep, those with inadequate exercise frequency had significantly lower HF-HRV (B=-0.59, SE = 0.21, p=0.005) and RMSSD (B=0.29, SE = 0.10, p=0.003) compared to those with adequate exercise. Among adequate sleeper’s, no significant differences in HRV were observed between each exercise group. Findings suggest that for those with short sleep, lack of exercise may exacerbate the negative consequences of short sleep on HRV. Future studies should explore whether and how exercise intensity may change this relationship.
THE MODERATING RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FUTURE SELF-CONTINUITY AND NUMERACY ON RETIREMENT SAVINGS
Authors: Mooney Laken , Best Ryan
Published: January 2025

Worldwide, lifespan is increasing while birth rates are declining resulting in an increasing proportion of older adults in the population. This demographic shift will manifest in an increased proportion of adults in retirement who will rely on non-employment sources of income. Though Social Security provides a key source of retirement income, it is often insufficient and requires supplementation by other sources. Since the late 1970s, the most common retirement savings programs have largely shifted from employers (e.g., pensions) to individuals (e.g., 401k and IRA programs). As such, a greater responsibility for retirement savings now falls on individuals and is more susceptible to variance in individual decision making. Individual difference factors which predict retirement savings include numeracy, the ability to understand and work with numbers, and future self-continuity (FSC), the sense of connectedness we have to our future selves. Using a zero-inflated Poisson model to analyze data from the RAND American Life Panel (n=798), we found a significant interaction between numeracy and FSC when predicting retirement savings (p<.001) after controlling for age and income. Among those that had retirement savings, increased numeracy predicted greater savings for individuals with high, but not low, FSC. This demonstrates that highly numerate individuals appear to have the skills necessary to maximize retirement savings but may not utilize these skills unless they have a strong connection to their future self. Results are discussed in light of the current landscape of retirement preparation and how to best promote individual saving.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CELLULAR GLYCOLYSIS AND AGE IN BLOOD CELLS OF ADULTS
Authors: Keri Ben , Phang Howard , Bergstrom Jaclyn , Dozier Stephen , Scandalis Lina , Molina Anthony
Published: January 2025

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a hallmark of aging that leads to inefficient cellular energy production, causing a shift towards aerobic glycolysis termed the Warburg Effect. While most studies examined the effect of aging on oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), the relationships between glycolysis and age are less understood. Blood cells are a promising avenue for establishing biomarkers for their accessibility and versatility. We hypothesized that blood cells from older participants would have higher glycolytic function compared to blood cells from younger donors. We used blood collected from adults across the human lifespan through the San Diego Nathan Shock Center. We isolated platelets, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), monocytes, and lymphocytes, and measured glycolytic proton efflux rate (glycoPER) using the Agilent SeahorseXFe96 which is comparable to lactate efflux rate. Pearson correlation analysis showed moderate positive associations between age and glycoPER for platelets (r=0.31, p=0.48) and PBMCs (r=0.44, p=0.004) in women. There were no correlations between age and glycoPER for monocytes or lymphocytes in women, or any cell type in men. Our findings support our hypothesis that the glycolytic function of cells from older donors is higher than that of younger donors, but only for certain cell populations in women and not for men. Interestingly, gPER was positively correlated with OXPHOS in most cell types, in contrast to the Warburg Effect premise. In conclusion, our study suggests a relationship between glycolysis and age that should be further investigated in the context of age-related bioenergetic decline.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LIVING ALONE AND STRESS FROM A LIFE COURSE PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Lim Junyub , Andel Ross , Sheardova Katerina , Pavlik Jan , Amlerova Jana , Hort Jakub
Published: January 2025

Background/objectives

Social isolation may affect psychological well-being, but understanding this link across adulthood is limited. We examined living alone in relation to dealing with daily stress among younger, middle-aged, and older adults.

Methods

Data from Terrapino, a new mobile application designed to support cognitive health, were utilized. Psychological well-being was assessed with a 10-item index of dealing with daily stress over the past month (get angry, feel like things are piling up, feel like being on top of things, etc.) reported as never/sometimes/often/very often. Demographic, health, and lifestyle information was also collected.

Results

Complete data were available for 6,154 users who gave consent to allow reports of aggregate data (mean=57.2±14.4, range 18-103 years, 73% were female). Users were categorized as young (18-30 years, n=331), middle-aged (31-60 years, n=3,058), and older (61+ years, n=2,765) adults, of whom 45% (52% male/42% female), 20% (17% male/21% female), and 32% (15% male/39% female) young, middle-aged, and older adults, respectively, lived alone. Controlling for sex, education, and comorbidity, young adults who lived alone had poorer ability to deal with daily stress (Estimate=0.22, p<.05), no differences existed among middle-aged adults (p>.05) and better ability to deal with daily stress emerged among older adults living alone (Estimate=-0.11, p<.01).

Discussion

Using data from a freely available mobile application, young users who lived alone dealt with daily stress relatively poorly, whereas their older counterparts showed opposite trends regardless of comorbidity. This study sets the stage for research into mobile application use to improve well-being of older adults living alone.
THE ROLE OF FILIAL PIETY IN AGING AND CAREGIVING AMONG CHINESE AND CHINESE AMERICANS
Authors: Xiao Chunhong , Jablonski Rita , Patrician Patricia , Montgomery Aoyjai , Wang Youhua , Markaki Adelais
Published: January 2025

Understanding filial piety as it pertains to aging and caregiving among Chinese and Chinese Americans (CCAs) is expected to bridge the cultural chasm in health care and improve the quality of rendered services. This concept analysis aims to understand the role of filial piety relevant to caring for aging CCAs and to propose an operational definition. We used four databases and followed Walker and Avant’s method for data extraction and analysis. A total of 26 studies met inclusion criteria and were chosen for synthesis. Synthesis of evidence identified four antecedents: (a) filial obligation as a ‘cultural gene’, (b) sense of altruism, (c) familial solidarity, and (d) societal expectation of ‘birth right’. Attributes included: familial material and emotional support, obedience, pious reverence, and societal norm. Consequences were related to caregiver burden, psychological and physical well-being, quality of life, and health equity. Operational definition of filial piety is: an intrinsic desire of adult children to support parents/elders materially and emotionally as well as an extrinsic desire to adhere to the Chinese societal moral tenet to honor family and be honorable children. Future study should examine dual roles of filial piety as a moderator of role appraisal to caregiver burden and as a mediator of resources. The permeating cultural value of filial piety affects help-seeking behavior, caregiving, family relationships, and caregiver health for CCAs. Understanding the meaning, importance, and effect of filial piety for Asians and CCAs is essential for healthcare providers to provide culturally sensitive social and psychological support to caregivers.