bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PARTNER CORRESPONDENCE IN SOCIAL INTERACTION TIME AND WELL-BEING: EVERYDAY EVIDENCE FROM OLDER DYADS
Authors: Grünjes Carlotta , Garza Elizabeth Zambrano , Murphy Rachel , Madden Kenneth , Gerstorf Denis , Hueluer Gizem , Hoppmann Christiane
Published: January 2025

Social interactions play an important role in older adults’ daily well-being. Longer duration of interaction has been associated with higher well-being at the individual level. However, less is known about the extent to which partners differ in their convergence in interaction reports and whether such differences might be associated with daily well-being. Positive Illusion theory states that individuals are more content in relationships if they idealize their partner leading to the assumption that overreporting interaction time may benefit well-being. Based on the literature, we expect that longer social interaction time is associated with higher well-being at the individual level. At the partner level, we look at discrepancies and similarities. We assess whether individuals report higher well-being on days when they overreport the interaction time with their partner. We further test whether partners who are more similar in evaluating the time spent together are also more similar in their well-being reports. This study uses dyadic end-of-day diary data from 136 Canadian older adults (M = 66.68 years, SD = 13.11 range: 18-87 years, 60% women) and a close other of their choice. Preliminary analyses indicate that longer duration of interaction was associated with higher well-being. Correlations show differences in interaction time reports between partners. Multilevel models will examine whether overreporting interaction time may be associated with well-being. Further analyses will investigate how synchrony in interaction time reports shape joint well-being. As data collection is completed, these results will be ready to be presented by the time of GSA conference in November.
SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH AMONG CUSTODIAL GRANDMOTHERS: ADVANCING AN INTERSECTIONAL APPROACH
Authors: Littleton Tenesha
Published: January 2025

Racial disparities in custodial grandparenting, as well as disparities in the physical and mental health outcomes of custodial grandparents, are well-documented. As a result of long-standing socio-structural inequalities across the life course, custodial grandparents are disproportionately single, Black women with low socio-economic status. These categories of difference and the process of racialization contribute both to the need for grandparent caregiving in the Black community and the negative health consequences of caregiving for Black custodial grandmothers. Macro level structures and systems of oppression impact access to the social determinants of health shaping the life trajectories of racialized groups and contributing to unequal aging which suggests the importance of an intersectional lens when understanding the lived experiences of Black custodial grandmothers. A scoping review was conducted to determine the extent to which an intersectional framework is utilized in research examining the experiences of Black custodial grandmothers. A search of relevant databases (PsychINFO, SociINDEX, PubMed, and Web of Science) was performed using the following search terms and Boolean logic: (“grandparent” OR “grandmother” OR “grandfather” OR “custodial grandparent”) AND (“intersectionality”). Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods peer-reviewed journal articles published in English through January 2024 were included. Findings suggest that research integrating intersectionality with large representative samples is limited. This presentation will propose a conceptual framework that integrates the social determinants of health with an intersectional life course perspective as proposed by Ferrer and colleagues (2017). Recommendations for future research using intersectional approaches will be offered.
THE INTERPLAY OF SOCIAL DETERMINANTS, DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY, AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS IN KOREAN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Shin Donghee , Kim Giyeon
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to address the mechanisms between digital inequality and mental health disparities among Korean older adults, recognizing that social determinants of health (SDH) also contribute to the digital divide. We investigate whether older adults’ digital capacity exacerbates or mitigates health inequalities in later life. Drawn from the 2020 National Survey of Older Koreans, a nationally representative sample of 9,885 adults aged 65 and older was analyzed. We employed hierarchical multiple regression, moderation, and mediation analyses. SDH factors including sex, income, education and geographic location (rural-urban residence) were examined. Results showed that capacity to use digital technology significantly moderates and mediates the relationship between income, education, geographic location and depressive symptoms. Notably, digital technology use buffers against the negative effects of low income (B=.021, p<.05) and living in metropolitan areas (B=.095, p<.001, B=.067, p<.01) on depressive symptoms, while it also amplifies the negative effect of low educational attainment on depressive symptoms (B=-.030, p<.001). Specifically, heightened digital technology use among older adults augments the detrimental effects of education on depressive symptoms. Findings suggest that the importance of developing diverse support programs to improve digital literacy among Korean older adults, offering possible ways for reducing the digital divide and addressing mental health disparities.
FAMILISM MODERATES RELATIONS BETWEEN SOCIAL NETWORK AND COGNITION IN MIDLIFE LATINE ADULTS
Authors: Grudzien Adrienne , Gonzales Samantha , Burke Shanna , Cambara Celine , Briceno Alexandra , Jimenez Daniel , Scott Stephanie , Martinez Sabrina Sales
Published: January 2025

Larger social network size, a measure of social isolation, has been linked to better cognitive function in older adults. Research indicates that stress-related immune and endocrine pathways may activate in socially isolated adults and negatively impact brain tissue. This study examined whether Latine adults reporting poorer social network quality but holding familial cultural values that prioritize closeness and loyalty in the family group experienced worse cognitive function. Cross-sectional multiple regression and moderation analyses were used to evaluate the influence of familism (via MACVS Obligations and Support scale) on relations between Lubben Social Network Scale score and National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center cognitive domains in midlife Latine adults (n=51). Participants were predominantly female (92.16%), white (80.39%), and married or partnered (62.75%). The mean age of this sample was 52.84 (SD=4.89) years. Differential interaction effects were identified after adjusting for age, sex, race, income, and education level: familism strengthened relations between social network and episodic memory (β =.112, p = 0.019), and semantic memory (β =.059, p = 0.022) and weakened those with visuospatial (β =-.017, p = 0.044), executive function (β =-.04, p = 0.05), and verbal fluency (β = -.075, p = 0.046). These findings suggest that familism may be protective of visuospatial, executive function, and fluency domains, while semantic and episodic memory are more vulnerable in familism-aligned but socially isolated, aging Latine adults. Further evidence is necessary, however, to support the development of targeted interventions and support systems addressing cognitive health disparities in Latine adults.
GENDER DIFFERENCES IN COVID-19’S EFFECTS ON LONELINESS, ISOLATION, AND COGNITIVE HEALTH AMONG TAIWANESE RETIREES
Authors: Hsu Wan-Chen , Huang Nuan-Ching , Hu Susan C
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study investigates the impacts of lock-down policies during the COVID-19 pandemic on the loneliness, social isolation, and cognitive function of retirees in Taiwan, focusing on the differences between men and women. Method: We conducted a two-stage stratified sampling survey to collect 1,115 valid retirees aged 50-74 in Taiwan in early 2023. A mixed-methods approach, combining focus groups and quantitative analysis, was employed. Loneliness was evaluated using the UCLA Loneliness Scale, and social isolation was measured through interaction with family members and social participation. Cognitive function was assessed using the Saint Louis University Mental Status. The statistical analysis included network analysis and multinomial logistic regression.

Results

This study revealed that approximately 30% of participants experienced loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic, and about 20% of men and women reported less time allocated to volunteering and group activities. Although regression analysis showed no gender differences in loneliness scores and cognitive functions, network analysis found gender-specific relationships among related factors and sub-item of cognitive tests. For example, women’s feelings of loneliness negatively correlated with geometric judgment performance, while men showed a positive correlation between orientation test scores and volunteer involvement. Qualitative research further underscored the crucial role of community support in facilitating recovery from the pandemic, particularly for individuals who were less engaged in community activities.

Discussion

This study highlights the need to explore gender-specific correlates of loneliness and isolation across different cognitive items and emphasizes strengthening community support for post-pandemic recovery.
LONELY AND SOCIALLY DISCONNECTED OLDER ADULTS ARE AT HIGHER RISK FOR PREVALENT AND INCIDENT DEMENTIA
Authors: Chek Carmen , Knauft Katherine , Stickel Ariana , Araujo-Menendez Carlos , Gonzalez Hector , Tarraf Wassim
Published: January 2025

A 2020 report from the National Academies indicates that nearly one in four adults over age 65 are lonely. Loneliness has important health implications, including for cognitive aging. However, loneliness might not manifest uniformly in the population. Herein, we address a gap in the existing literature by examining the link between heterogeneities in the risk of loneliness and dementia outcomes. We used data from n = 8,805 adults aged 65+ from the Health and Retirement Study (average age 74.7; 56.3% women) to estimate latent classifications of loneliness (11 items from the UCLA loneliness index) and tested, using generalized linear regression models, whether different manifestations of loneliness were differentially associated with dementia (Langa-Weir criteria) prevalence and incidence (over 3-waves of data). A four-class solution best fits the data: “No/Low loneliness” (NL; 51.6%); “Socially disconnected” (SD; 18.0%); “Lonely but not socially disconnected” (LNSD; 12.6%), and “Lonely and socially disconnected” (LSD; 17.8%). Notably, these classifications and their prevalence rates were largely consistent across waves. Adjusting for sociodemographic covariates, compared to individuals in the NL group, the LNSD (OR = 1.68; 95%CI = 1.22;2.32) and LSD (OR = 1.71; 95%CI = 1.33;2.20) groups were more likely to meet criteria for prevalent dementia at baseline. The LSD group was also more likely to meet criteria for incident dementia at follow-ups (within 2 and 4 years from baseline). Loneliness is not uniformly distributed in the population and its subtypes confer differential risk for dementia outcomes. Focusing on the subtypes can potentially pinpoint targetable groups for interventions.
ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN NURSING HOME WORKPLACE SAFETY CULTURE AND PATIENT SAFETY CULTURE
Authors: Hesgrove Brandon , Tyler Emily , Yount Naomi , Sorra Joann , Hassell Susan
Published: January 2025

An influential report from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement purports that a strong workplace safety culture is a precondition of a strong culture of safety in healthcare. However, existing empirical evidence is limited. We used data from a 2023 pilot test of the Workplace Safety Supplemental Item Set administered with the Surveys on Patient Safety Culture (SOPS) Nursing Home Survey to examine associations between all 9 workplace safety culture and all 14 resident safety culture measures. Data were obtained from 2,515 staff (40% response rate) in 48 nursing homes across 20 states. Associations were estimated using multiple linear regressions, where, because of strong multicollinearity, the dependent variable for each regression was one patient safety culture measure and the independent variables were one workplace safety culture measure, nursing home bed size, and ownership. The analysis was at the nursing home level and nursing home percent positive scores were calculated as the percentage of staff that answered with the two most positive response options (out of five). 123 out of 126 associations were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The two workplace safety culture measures most highly associated with resident safety culture were Management Support for Workplace Safety (mean β = 0.78) and the Overall Rating on Workplace Safety for Staff (mean β = 0.73). The very strong associations between resident and workplace safety culture measures imply that the two are interconnected and improving a culture of safety for nursing home staff will also improve safety for residents.
NURSING HOME WORKER MENTAL HEALTH AND TURNOVER INTENTION AMONG PARENTS
Authors: Kennedy Katherine , Mohr David C , Mills Whitney
Published: January 2025

Nursing home (NH) staff job dissatisfaction and turnover are associated with lower care quality. However, little is known about the impact of staff mental health, parenthood, and marital status. Guided by the Job Demands-and-Resources Model (assumes positive effects of job resources and negative effects of job demands on individual and work outcomes), we compared psychological distress and job satisfaction for single parents and married parents. NH employee and manager data from Wave 4 (2011-12) of the Work Family Health Network study were combined (N=1,144) to define parents (N=682). Strata were compared on demographics, job characteristics, turnover intention, job satisfaction, and psychosocial health using bivariate tests and logistic regression models. Single parents comprised 51.8% (n=353) of the sample. In bivariate tests, single parents reported higher turnover intention and psychological distress as well as lower job satisfaction and social support than married parents (p<.001). Turnover intention was more likely endorsed when staff reported greater psychological distress (OR=1.07, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.12, p<.01). Distress was more likely with increasing work-to-family conflict (OR=1.68, 95% CI: 1.22, 2.31, p<.01) and increasing family-to-work conflict (OR= 1.78, 95% CI: 1.21, 2.63, p<.01). Distress was less likely with higher household income (OR= 0.92, 95% CI=0.87, 0.94, p<.05). Additional research is needed to understand and develop strategies to mitigate psychological distress and increase job resources among single parents to improve NH worker outcomes.
OUTCOMES ASSOCIATED WITH PARTICIPATION IN THE ILLINOIS WORKPLACE WELLNESS STUDY
Authors: Payne Laura , Kim Do Yun , An Jaesung , Janke Megan , Orsega-Smith Elizabeth , Bobitt Julie , Gothe Neha
Published: January 2025

Workplace wellness (WW) programs assert health benefits; however, most available evidence is based on observational studies comparing participants to non-participants (Reif et al., 2020). Experiences and outcomes associated with WW program participation may vary by the age. This study examined factors that shaped participation among younger (under 50) and older employees (age 50+) in a workplace wellness program. Using data from the Illinois WW Study (N=4,834), we examined several health behaviors (physical activity, smoking, alcohol use), participation rates, and presenteeism. Participants were randomly assigned to treatment and control groups; they completed a baseline survey and annual follow-up surveys for three years. Physical activity (PA) was measured with three questions (compared to other people your age are you more active, about the same, less active? Are you trying to increase your PA? In the last 12 months, has your doctor told you to increase your PA?). Smoking and alcohol use were assessed with the number of days smoked/drank in a week and the number of smokes/drinks/day. Presenteeism was measured with the 6-item Stanford presenteeism scale. The 50 and over age group scored significantly higher (M = 3.31, SD = 0.63) than the under 50 group (M = 3.07, SD = 0.70) on the composite health behavior score. For all four study periods (i.e., fall 2016, spring 2017, fall 2017, and spring 2018), there was no significant association between age and workplace wellness program participation. Results show no significant difference in absenteeism between the control and treatment group over the study period.
THE EXPERIENCES OF DISCLOSING ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE IN THE US WORKPLACE
Authors: Gibson Allison , Coccia Kathryn , Hasten Lauren
Published: January 2025

With the shift of aging adults delaying retirement, more individuals are being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD) while still in the workforce. Using a modified grounded theory approach, 16 people living with ADRD were interviewed about their experience receiving a diagnosis while still in full-time employment (mean age 66). Thematic analysis was employed to examine the study’s aims with member checking and an audit trail to enhance study credibility and trustworthiness. Many study participants shared their diagnosis with employers, resulting in positive experiences. Study findings indicated that participants were more likely to disclose their diagnosis to their employer when they felt supported by their supervisor, perceived their employer would offer them reasonable accommodations to continue working, or felt they were well positioned to retire. Those who did not disclose their diagnosis did so because they feared reasonable accommodations were either not available or accessible, and they reported significant financial stress. Study implications suggest those newly diagnosed need support regarding ADRD and employment, and human resources personnel need more training on ADRD workers. While not all participants were able to continue in the workforce following diagnosis, many could through flexible work roles and supportive environments. Many study participants were able to continue in their full-time positions until they retired or elected to shift employment to a new role or employer. However, some experiences highlight the continued challenges of accessing disability resources. This presentation will conclude with recommendations for specialized policies, training, and future research.
AGE-RELATED VALUE ORIENTATIONS IN LARGE LANGUAGE MODELS (LLMS)
Authors: Zhang Xin , Ren Yuanyi , Song Guojie
Published: January 2025

Large Language Models (LLMs) are transforming diverse fields and gaining increasing influence as human proxies. This development underscores a critical scientific need to evaluate their value orientations and understanding, which are major determinants of individual and collective human behavior. We used a newly developed evaluation pipeline grounded in realistic human-AI interactions to probe age-related value orientations (e.g., hostile and benevolent ageism) of six different LLMs (including GPT-3.5, GPT-4, Llama2-7B, Llama2-70B, Mistral-7B and Mixtral-8x7B). The results indicated that compared with human participants, these Large Language Models exhibited significantly less hostile ageism in terms of both descriptive and prescriptive ageism, while these Large Language Models exhibited a similar level of benevolent ageism to the degree of human participants. Moreover, we also observed a reversed aging stereotype pattern such that in contrast to typical High-Warmth-Low-Competence stereotype according to stereotype content model, Large Language Models exhibited a High-Warmth-High-Competence stereotype on older adults. Further experiment was conducted to examine how such age-related value orientation of LLMs (especially the benevolent ageism and the high-competence stereotype) could influence individuals’ attitudes as well as behavioral tendencies toward older adults. 80 younger adults were randomly assigned to discuss age-related topics with either LLMs or humans, who will present previously generated contents expressing benevolent ageism and high competence stereotype toward older adults. Results indicated that participant’s attitudes (as measured by SCM and AAS) as well as helping behaviors (in terms of SVO and third-party punishment game) toward older adults were most influenced by LLMs compared with humans.
DO MINDFULNESS ACTIVITIES IMPROVE HANDGRIP STRENGTH AMONG OLDER ADULTS: A PROPENSITY SCORE MATCHING APPROACH
Authors: Thalil Muhammad , Ali Waad , Agyekum Boadi , Srivastava Shobhit
Published: January 2025

The integration of mindfulness practices into the daily routine of the elderly population has been proven to enhance their overall well-being and vitality. There is limited evidence regarding the association between mindfulness activity and physical strength among community-dwelling older adults. Since hand grip strength is an important measure for evaluating the health and well-being of older adults, we explored the association between yoga/mindfulness practices and handgrip strength among older Indians using nationally representative data (N=27,707; mean age: 68.6 [SD:7.3]). Handgrip strength was assessed using a handheld Smedley Hand Dynamometer and mindfulness activities were self-reported. Key findings showed that for the matched sample (ATT), handgrip strength increased by 0.55 points for those who were involved in mindfulness activities compared to older adults who were not involved in mindfulness activities. The results of the Average Treatment Effect on the Untreated (ATU) showed that among individuals who were not involved in mindfulness activities, if they were involved in mindfulness activities, their handgrip strength was likely to increase by 1.16 points. The findings of the current study highlight the importance of integrating mindfulness techniques, including yoga, into public health programs aimed at ageing populations. By tailoring personalized programs that improve both mental and physical health, older adults can maintain an active lifestyle, thereby reducing healthcare costs and enhancing societal well-being.
GENDER DIFFERENCES IN THE EXPERIENCE OF AGE-RELATED MICROAGGRESSIONS
Authors: Lewis Hannah , Hecht Crystal , Buchanan Jeff
Published: January 2025

Microaggressions are subtle forms of discrimination which occur in interpersonal interactions. This construct has been examined individually in the context of sexism, and more recently, ageism. Despite society’s gendered view on aging, the intersection of how gender impacts the experience of age-related microaggressions is understudied. The current study utilized existing survey data from Lewis et al. (2023) to examine how intersectional identities of age and gender influence the experience of age-related microaggressions. The original study utilized an online survey to ask older adults (n=200, 57% females) about their experiences with 20 age-related microaggressions. Frequency analyses were used to identify gender differences by item, with a difference of >20% serving as a threshold for defining meaningful gender differences. Gender differences existed on items in all six variables measured (frequency, cause, relationship, location, emotional response, and behavioral reaction). Chi-squares tests of independence were also run to examine these differences on a larger scale. The results suggested gender had a significant relationship with frequency χ2(5)=6.64,p =.005, cause χ2(7)=157.61,p <.001, and emotional reaction χ2(2)=7.37, p =.03. Namely, women more often reported experiencing microaggressions, believed these interactions occurred because of their gender, and had negative emotional responses. Overall, the results suggest a difference in the experience and perception of these interactions. These results highlight a need for educational programming on ageism to incorporate a discussion on intersectional identities. Future studies should utilize focus groups to gain a better understanding of the role gender identity plays in the context of age-related microaggressions.
PREVALENCE OF AMBIVALENT AGEISM AMONG FAMILY CAREGIVERS AND RELATIONSHIP TO STRESS
Authors: Kinkade Emily , Fuller Heather
Published: January 2025

Informal family caregivers play an important role in the healthy aging of many older adults. However, little to no research focuses on how family caregivers’ beliefs and attitudes about older adults impact their experience as a caregiver. This study investigates the prevalence of ambivalent ageism - both benevolent and hostile - among informal family caregivers, whether ambivalent ageist beliefs are associated with feelings of stress and burnout, and whether factors such as the relationship quality between the caregiver and care recipient and perceived burden mediate the relationship between ambivalent ageist attitudes and caregiver stress. A sample of informal family caregivers (n=137) was collected from the Midwest. Ambivalent ageist attitudes were measured using the Ambivalent Ageism Scale, family caregiver stress and burden were measured with the Kingston Caregiver Stress Scale and the Zarit Burden Interview respectively, and relationship quality was measured using the Dyadic Relationship Scale. A paired-samples t-test indicated that benevolent ageism was significantly higher than hostile ageism. Multiple regression analyses indicated benevolent ageism was not associated with caregiver stress or burden; however, hostile ageism was significantly associated with caregiver stress and burden. Further, it was found that relationship quality did not mediate the relationship between hostile ageism and caregiver stress, but perceived caregiver burden did mediate this relationship. These findings are discussed and interpreted within the framework of the Informal Caregiving Integrative Model.
THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN INFORMATION SOURCES, PERSPECTIVES ON PUBLIC HEALTH POLICIES, AND AGEISM
Authors: Park Cherrie
Published: January 2025

Global concerns over heightening ageism have been raised throughout and after the pandemic. While it was argued that age-based public health policies during the pandemic contributed to intergenerational tension, little evidence was available about these concerns. In response, this study aimed to understand younger adults’ ageism in the context of public health crisis by examining the relationships between younger adults’ perspectives on health policies, sources of health information, and the intensity of their ageism. For a quantitative inquiry, survey data were collected in the United States from 317 individuals ages 18 to 44. Their ageism levels were measured with the Ambivalent Ageism Scale, which had been developed to capture multifaceted attitudes (i.e., hostile and benevolent) toward older adults. Multiple regression analysis revealed that benevolent ageism was more intense than hostile ageism among the survey respondents. The intensity of ageism was significantly associated with their beliefs about safety measures and the prioritization of older adults in distributing medical resources, as well as with their choice of information sources (e.g., social media) to receive health information. The findings inform people doing advocacy work for older adults, including those in the helping profession, about future directions for combating ageism in times of public health crisis. For example, they should guide people to utilize various information sources and accept health information critically. This study can be applied to developing effective education models, policies, and practices for alleviating ageism.
“I’M GOING TO LIVE HOW LONG?” EXPLORING GAPS AND INFLUENTIAL FACTORS IN PERCEPTIONS OF LIFE EXPECTANCY
Authors: Cerino Lauren , Felts Adam , D’Ambrosio Lisa , Patskanick Taylor , Coughlin Joseph
Published: January 2025

As the population ages and life expectancy increases, it becomes increasingly important to understand the public’s perceptions and expectations of their own aging, longevity, and life expectancy. Research shows that most people tend to underestimate their own life expectancy (Bago d’Uva, O’Donnell, and van Doorslaer, 2017; Society of Actuaries, 2020). Having an accurate sense for how long one may live plays an important role in informing decision-making and planning around finances, health, and general aspirations. The MIT AgeLab conducted focus groups (N=69, ages 27-76) and a survey (N=1184, ages 20-79) examining participants’ perceived life expectancy and the factors influencing their expectations. The survey sample’s overall perceived life expectancy was 79.84 years, with differences emerging among demographics; for example, older participants reported significantly higher life expectancy compared to younger participants. Health status, lifestyle, and familial health history emerged as top factors influencing participants’ expectations. Further analysis will explore differences in perceived life expectancy among participants with varying life experiences (e.g., caregiving status, employment, family history), self-reported health, hopes and goals (e.g., desired life expectancy), and personality traits (e.g., optimism), as well as demographic characteristics (e.g., age, gender, race/ethnicity, residential environment). We will suggest both psychological (via construal theory) and sociological (via analyzing sociocultural knowledge about old age as a life stage) explanations for these findings. This session will emphasize practical implications for researchers and practitioners to inform how they might guide individuals toward more accurate perceptions of their life expectancy, enabling people to engage in improved decision-making and planning.
AGING ATTITUDES: THE EFFECTS OF INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS AND VILLAGE ECONOMIC CONTEXT IN RURAL CHINA
Authors: Fu Xiaoyu , Xu Ying , Silverstein Merril
Published: January 2025

Understanding the dynamics between intergenerational relationships and attitudes toward aging is crucial for developing supportive policies for older adults, particularly in rapidly changing rural contexts (Wu & Yuan, 2023). This study investigated how parent-adult child relationships (level 1 predictors) and village economic development (level 2 predictor) influence older adults’ attitudes toward aging in rural China. From the 2021 wave of the Longitudinal Study of Older Adults in Anhui Province, we sampled 1394 older adults aged 60 and over across 64 villages in Anhui. Using mixed-effects multilevel regression models, we found that the quality of parent-adult child relationships, support from adult children, and the level of economic development in villages positively affect older adults’ attitudes toward aging. Importantly, the effect of parent-adult child relationship on aging attitude is shaped by the village’s economic development level, indicating a stronger positive association in more economically developed contexts. These findings highlight the significant contextual effect of economic conditions on the impact of intergenerational relationships on aging attitudes, underscoring the importance of considering both individual and village-level factors in aging research in rural China.
CAREGIVER STATUS MODERATION OF THE RELATION BETWEEN PERCEPTIONS OF COGNITION AND COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE
Authors: McLin Maia , Nadorff Danielle
Published: January 2025

Custodial grandparents have additional stressors associated with becoming a caregiver later in life. Caregiving grandparents use cognitive strategies that non-caregiving older adults may not regularly utilize. Concerns regarding aging are common to older adults, however these concerns may be elevated amongst older adults who have the additional concern of responsibility over grandchildren. In general, those who report more control over cognitive aging are more likely to have better cognitive performance. These perceptions may affect behaviors such as participating in cognitively-taxing tasks. Those who have additional stressors, such as caregiving to grandchildren, may have additional burden that lessens perceptions of cognitive control. This study assesses whether caregiving grandparent status affects the relation between perceptions of control over aging and cognitive performance. Data included 234 caregiving and 1591 non-caregiving participants from the third wave of a longitudinal data collection survey Midlife in the United States study (MIDUS III). MIDUS III included self-administered surveys assessing caregiver status, social factors, and phone interview assessment of cognitive performance. Moderation of caregiver status on the relation between perceptions of cognition control and cognitive performance was tested using SPSS Process macro. A significant interaction was found (t=2.08, p<.05), indicating that caregiver status moderates this relation. Perceptions of cognitive control were not predictive of cognitive performance for grandparent caregivers (p=.06), but were predictive for non-caregivers (p<.001). These results suggest that grandparent caregiver status affects the impact of perceptions of cognitive control on cognitive performance.
DOES CHATGPT HAVE AGEISM?
Authors: Cheng Huai
Published: January 2025

Ageism is prevalent in the media and clinical practice. AI is defined as thinking and acting like humans. ChatGPT as one type of AI was released to public in 11/2022 and immediately emerged as a quick information resource and interaction with humans. It is very important to know whether ChatGPT has discrimination against older adults and offers non-age biased health information in aging and geriatrics. To explore these, ChatGPT’s responses to geriatric attitudes inquiry were assessed by using a validated instrument. This geriatrics attitude instrument is composed of 6 positive attitude questions and 10 items negative attitude questions. They have been tested among medical students, residents, and geriatric fellows. In the present study, ChatGPT was prompted to answer these 16 geriatric attitude questions on a scale of 1-5 (1-strongly disagree and 5=strongly agree). Prompt is based on the directions and questions from the originally published paper. The outputs from ChatGPT were collected to compare the results from medical students, residents and geriatric fellows published in the literature. The total geriatrics attitude score from ChatGPT was significantly lower than humans (2.68 vs 3.77). However, the mean positive geriatric attitude score was 4.1 (the higher the better). The mean negative geriatric score was 1.8 (the lower the better). About half outputs from ChatGPT also provide positive rational for their responses. Our results demonstrate that ChatGPT is less likely to produce an age-biased output. Therefore, we should be comfortable to trust non-age biased output on aging and geriatrics from ChatGPT.
HOW GROWING OLDER WITH THEIR “BEST FRIEND” CHANGES OLDER ADULT MEN’S PERSPECTIVES ON AGING
Authors: Mueller Ranell
Published: January 2025

Knowledge of the deeper meaning of how growing older alongside companion animal dogs affects men’s perspectives of aging is limited. This study employed qualitative research methods utilizing individual interviews and panel discussions with older adult men to investigate the dynamic phenomenon of their personal experience of growing older alongside their aging companion animal dogs. Individual audio-recorded and in-depth interviews and repeated panel discussions with a sub-group of participants, convened as a panel over a three-month period, explored behavioral and emotional manifestations of aging along with a companion animal. Analysis involved open, axial, and selective coding of transcripts to reveal underlying patterns within the data. Outcomes included insight into the role of dogs in the men’s perspectives of attitudes toward aging, toward not only themselves as older adult men, but also toward their aging dogs. Findings reveal that the older adult men felt empathy for their aging dogs, which translated to feeling empathy for themselves as well as other older adults. The men revealed attitudes of being sympathetic and understanding of the aging process simply because of aging alongside their aging dogs. A prominent idea that emerged was a feeling of grace toward oneself, others, and their aging dogs. This study offers insight into the deeper understanding of one effect caring for older companion animals has on older adult men’s attitudes toward aging. This study provides movement toward a theory of the role of dogs in the development of older adult men’s attitudes toward aging.
READINESS FOR AGING: A CONCEPT ANALYSIS
Authors: Liang Yanjing , Belza Basia
Published: January 2025

As awareness of aging grows alongside healthcare advancements, advocacy for older adults’ quality of life intensifies. However, people focus more on the physiological, psychological, and social challenges associated with the aging process, limited attention has been paid to entering the pre-aging stage. Understanding of the phenomenon and concept of readiness for aging will enable us to appreciate the opportunities and challenges individuals face as they approach aging. This concept analysis conceptualizes readiness for aging. PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and CINAHL were systematically searched by using combinations of the terms “ready”, “readiness”, “prepared”, “prepare”, “preparedness”, “preparation”, “aging” and “ageing” in the abstract or title (from the earliest date available to February 2024). Rodgers’ approach was employed to clarify the antecedents, attributes, and consequences of readiness for aging. Fifteen eligible articles were reviewed. The findings were categorized into antecedents, attributes, and consequences. Antecedents of readiness for aging were classified into five categories: self-efficacy, social support, aging in place, financial preparedness, and health awareness. Attributes were characterized by psychological resilience, social connectedness, future orientation, financial plan, and health maintenance. The consequences of readiness for aging include quality of life, social well-being, financial security, and healthy aging. Given the limited attention readiness for aging has received, this concept analysis offered a refined and clarified conceptual definition of readiness for aging. Through literature reviews, qualitative and quantitative data collection, and collaboration with healthcare professionals, and legislators, future research can prioritize and enhance conceptual development, fostering holistic approaches to aging.
THE LIFESTYLE AND UNMET NEEDS AMONG UNMARRIED MIDDLE-AGED AND OLDER ADULTS IN TAIWAN
Authors: Chiu Ching-Ju
Published: January 2025

This study used in-depth interviews and questionnaires to explore the lifestyle and psychological state of Generation X singles in urban areas of Taiwan, using a mixed methodology that combines qualitative and quantitative research methods. The interview focuses on the individual’s understanding and planning of single life, as well as the acceptance of emerging technologies, while the questionnaire includes personality traits and loneliness tests to supplement the qualitative information in a quantitative way. This mixed research strategy maximizes the understanding of the target group, focusing on the target group’s preparation for future changes in the life stage of legal old age (65 years old) and their attitudes towards emerging technologies, and also provides a scientific basis for formulating more effective policies. After conducting in-depth conversations with multiple participants and understanding their life choices, expectations and challenges, the results of this study revealed the participants’ diverse attitudes towards single life and their flexible preparations for the future, as well as their acceptance of new technologies in daily life. It also provides many valuable insights to financial planners and government policy makers.
ADHD SYMPTOMOLOGY AND COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE IN LATER LIFE
Authors: Mansoor Marrium , Katz Ben
Published: January 2025

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting up to 6.7% of adults worldwide. Validated questionnaires to diagnose ADHD often include scales for both the inattention and hyperactivity symptoms which characterize this disorder. Although inattention symptoms have been previously linked to cognitive performance in younger samples, very few studies have examined links between these ADHD symptoms and cognitive performance in adult samples, and very few have done so with middle aged and older adults. In this study, we drew from a nationally representative sample from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) of ~ 1400 middle to older adults (M = 69 years, SD = 10.3; Range = 55-107 years) who completed a set of cognitive measures and an ADHD symptomology questionnaire. We found statistically significant associations between self-reported symptoms of inattention and cognitive measures including Number Series (B=-0.056, p=0.036), Serial 7s (B=-0.088, p< 0.001), Delayed Recall (B=-0.112, p< 0.001), Immediate Recall (B=-0.116, p< 0.001), and global cognition (B=-0.148, p< 0.001) while controlling for age, gender, years of education, and self-rated health. Hyperactivity symptoms were only significantly predictive of global cognition (B=-0.077, p=0.01) and no other measures. These results are consistent with previous work on the links between ADHD symptomology and cognitive performance in younger populations and add to the literature on ADHD in later life. This may have implications for clinicians and practitioners as well as future research on older adults with ADHD.
DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS, SLEEP, AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN ADULTS WITH CHRONIC CONDITIONS
Authors: Diallo Idiatou , Bass Judy , Musci Rashelle , Adams Leslie , Gallo Joseph , Spira Adam
Published: January 2025

Physical, mental, and sleep problems threaten well-being; however, there is limited research on the temporal connections of these issues. We investigated the longitudinal associations among depressive symptoms, sleep disturbances, and quality of life (QoL) among middle-aged and older adults (aged 50+) with diabetes, hypertension, and/or cardiovascular disease in the United States. Participants (N=17,283) drawn from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) reported at least one of these medical conditions, and data from the 12th (T1), 13th (T2), and 14th (T3) waves (2014-2018) was used. Depressive symptoms were assessed via a modified version of the 8-item Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression (CES-D) scale (scores: 0-7). Sleep disturbance was measured using the 4-item Jenkins Sleep Scale (JSS) (scores: 2-6). QoL was evaluated through the 5-item Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) (scores: 5-35). Within-person associations showed short-term reciprocal links: higher depressive symptoms predicted higher sleep disturbance (T2–T3: β=0.036, p< 0.05), and higher sleep disturbance predicted higher depressive symptoms (T2–T3: β=0.035, p< 0.01). Higher QoL predicted lower sleep disturbance (T2–T3: β=-0.076, p< 0.001), and higher sleep disturbance predicted lower QoL (T2–T3: β=-0.064, p< 0.001). Within-person associations also indicated a one-way association over time: higher depressive symptoms predicted lower QoL (T1–T2: β=-0.104, p< 0.001; T2–T3: β=-0.141, p< 0.001). Future studies should evaluate the dynamic nature of the associations over longer study periods while assessing the influence of mediators/moderators at different time points. Policies should prioritize integrating sleep, depression, and QoL programs/services into primary care due to their temporal associations among individuals with physical illnesses.
HISPANIC DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS INVOLVEMENT IN EVERYDAY DECISION-MAKING
Authors: Poe Abigail , Alvarez Loreli , Wang Danny , Bibriescas Natashia , Puga Frank
Published: January 2025

This analysis aimed to examine the degree of decision-making involvement (DMI) of Hispanic and Latinx (H&L) dementia caregivers of people living with dementia (PLWD). Data was used from an ongoing study on the daily mental health experiences of H&L caregivers of PLWD, entitled “Nuestros Días” (Our Days). Analysis of variance was used to examine differences in caregiver involvement in everyday decisions, such as determining meals (Decision-Making Involvement Scale), based on H&L dementia caregiver age (e.g., 40-49, 50-59, etc.). A subset of 47 H&L dementia caregivers from the main study who completed the DMI scale were included in the analysis. The majority of the H&L caregivers identified as female (91.3%), with a mean age of 47 (SD = 17.4). Around half (48.6%) of the H&L caregivers were working full-time (30+ hours a week). H&L dementia caregivers reported moderate involvement (M = 22.9, SD = 7.1, Range 0-36) in DMI for the PLWD. Caregiver age was significantly associated with DMI (F(3, 40) = 3.08, p =.03). Post hoc comparisons using the Tukey HSD test indicated that the mean DMI for caregivers in the 60-69 age group was significantly higher than the mean DMI for caregivers in the 70+ age group (MD = 11.05, SD = 2.93, p =.027). Age may influence H&L caregiver DMI for the PLWD. Further studies are needed to identify additional factors (e.g., contextual, cultural, contextual) associated with H&L dementia caregiver’s DMI for the PLWD and potential associations with caregiver stress and burden.
DESIGN AND MODELING FOR SPARSELY SAMPLED PHYSIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS DATA
Authors: Clapham Charlotte , Varadhan Ravi , Bandeen-Roche Karen
Published: January 2025

Physical resilience is a pressing research area in aging. The Study of Physical Resilience and Aging (SPRING) posits that resilience is rooted in the fitness of specific physiological systems: It is studying resilience by introducing stressors on selected systems and monitoring their return to homeostasis as time series. We aim to use data from these dynamical stimulation tests to model the fitness of underlying dynamical systems; However, the extreme sparsity and measurement error in SPRING presents a methodological challenge. This presentation reports studies to evaluate alternative methods for recovering system dynamics. We first explored the limits of Local Linear Approximation (LLA) for this purpose using data simulated from curves sampled with varying levels of sparsity and measurement error. We found that LLA could not accurately or precisely recover the curves’ dynamics when data was extremely sparsely sampled or had moderate measurement error, making it unviable for SPRING. Our presentation also reports work to develop more nuanced methodologies that implement integro-differential equation modeling, smoothing techniques, and leveraging of ancillary data from other studies that performed dynamic stimulation tests on older adults. These strategies aim to enhance signal, reduce measurement error and borrow strength incorporating existing knowledge. This work has implications on our ability to better understand and predict resilience.