bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INTERACTION OF SPERMIDINE AND A LOW-METHIONINE DIET ON LIFESPAN IN MTDNA-DEFICIENT SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE
Authors: Su Wei-Hsuan , Cheng Evien , Cervantes Laura Hernandez , Nishitani Megan , Schriner Samuel
Published: January 2025

Spermidine and a low-methionine diet are two strategies shown to extend lifespan in model organisms, such as yeast, worms, flies, and rodents. Mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the theories explaining how organisms age. In previous studies, we used yeast lacking mtDNA (rho0) as a model for mitochondrial dysfunction. We found that spermidine was not only unable to extend lifespan in rho0 yeast, but actually shortened lifespan. Spermidine and methionine are closely linked metabolically as S-adenosylmethionine from the methionine cycle can be used to synthesize spermidine. And in turn, 5’-methylthioadenosine from the conversion of spermidine to spermine can be used to synthesize methionine. While we found that low-methionine treatment could extend wild-type yeast (rho+) lifespan compared to high-methionine treatment, rho+ yeast were shorter lived than rho0 yeast when both were subjected to low methionine. Thus, the action of low methionine appears to be opposite that of spermidine in rho0 cells, while being similar to spermidine in rho+ cells. This suggests that mitochondrial function plays a significant role in the ability of both treatments to modulate lifespan. We also observed that spermidine could rescue low-methionine toxicity in rho0 yeast, presumably by providing methionine through the pathway mentioned. We then uncovered that deficiency of CYT1 (a subunit of mitochondrial complex III) alone replicates the effect of complete mtDNA-deficiency with respect to spermidine toxicity. Future work will continue to explore the interaction between spermidine and low-methionine modulation of lifespan with the goal of identifying the molecular targets involved.
LONGITUDINAL STUDY OF R1RHO DISPERSION IMAGING OF AGING MUSCLE IN FISCHER RATS
Authors: Adelnia Fatemeh , Wang Feng , Gore John
Published: January 2025

Aging is associated with impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation, leading to impaired muscle perfusion and organ dysfunction. It has been shown that impaired muscle perfusion may result in insufficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients during and after muscle contraction, leading to muscle damage. The ability to study the relationships between microvascular structure, impairment of perfusion, and muscle damage has been limited using traditional muscle perfusion measures, which are mostly invasive and risky. We developed a non-invasive 3D R1ρ dispersion MRI method at weak locking field frequencies to quantify microvasculature restructuring in skeletal muscle. This method provides a unique way of characterizing the size and density of capillaries. We successfully developed the protocol and applied it to the lower leg of F334 female rats of different ages. The whole lower leg of each rat was also imaged using conventional RARE pulse sequences to quantify the T2 values of the muscles. Our data show ΔR1ρ (=R1ρ{0Hz} - R1ρ{240Hz}) fraction values in calf muscles of 15 months F344 female rats (n=8) are significantly (p-value=0.03) higher than 6 months old rats (n=8). We interpret this measure as a possible new biomarker that characterizes changes in microvascular structure with aging. The T2 value also significantly increased in older rats (=30.25ms) compared to younger groups (=27.7ms), possibly reflecting higher inflammation in muscle in agreement with previously published results. The future direction of this ongoing study is to compare these results with data collected from male rats and validation of the ΔR1ρ fraction as a biomarker using ex-vivo histology.
METABOLOME-WIDE STUDY OF CVD IN SWEDISH TWINS
Authors: Skovgaard Asmus Cosmos , Mak Jonathan K L , Hägg Sara , Jylhävä Juulia , Soerensen Mette
Published: January 2025

Globally, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death, with coronary artery disease (CAD) and stroke as the most frequent diseases. The molecular basis of CVD is potentially confounded by genetic and environmental factors, an issue which is reduced by investigating intra-pair differences in twins. Here, we study 11,228 twins with nuclear magnetic resonance-based metabolome data and register based diagnoses on incident CAD and stroke collected from the Swedish Patient Register. Statistical analyses were performed both at the individual level and twin-pair level by Cox regression analysis. Biomarkers being significant (FDR< 0.05) both at the individual level and twin pair level in analysis of CAD were identified and LASSO analysis was used to identify the most influential independent biomarkers. A more explorative approach was taken for stroke by applying a cut off of p value< 0.05. Different biomarkers were found for CAD and stroke, which can indicate that the biological mechanisms are partly distinct in the two diseases. We found that ApoB-containing lipoproteins are more positively associated with CAD, which might be due to their pro-atherogenic effects. Contrary, ApoA1-containing lipoproteins are more negatively related to stroke possibly due to their anti-atherogenic effects and potential ability to cross the blood-brain-barrier, an ability not shared with the ApoB-containing lipoproteins. In conclusion, we present novel biomarkers for CAD and stroke by performing metabolomic analyses in twins, thereby lowering the confounding induced by shared genetic and environmental factors, a study design which is rare within the CVD field.
ORA BIOMEDICAL: ACCELERATING DRUG DISCOVERY FOR GEROSCIENCE
Authors: Muir Michael , Blue Benjamin , Kaeberlein Matt , Lee Mitchell
Published: January 2025

Small molecule interventions that directly target the molecular mechanisms of aging have the potential to revolutionize 21st century health and preventative medicine. Altering the trajectory of aging holds incredible economic value in humans, companion pets, and other animals. The longevity biotechnology sector is quickly growing to meet this opportunity, but a relatively small number of interventions and aging targets are poised for clinical development. Ora Biomedical, Inc. is a pharmaceutical company launched out of the Kaeberlein Lab at the University of Washington. We routinely test natural products, pharmaceuticals, combinatorial mixtures, and biologics to identify those that impact biological aging. Our drug screening uses the WormBot-AI platform, which leverages AI, robotics, and C. elegans to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of pre-clinical drug discovery. The WormBot-AI is the best in class for high-throughput intervention testing with lifespan, disease progression, and health measures as primary endpoints. We have also used our platform to launch the Million Molecule Challenge (MMC), a crowdfunded open science initiative. We show here the open access data crowd-funded by scientists and community members from over twenty countries. Furthermore, as a resource and tool for the broader aging science community, we have launched the MMC dashboard. This allows any member of the aging research community to access this crowd-funded data. Ora Biomedical is currently soliciting partnerships with both academic and non-academic aging researchers. We offer a wide array of screening services in multiple disease and mutant models as well as custom intervention validation experiments.
RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN BLOOD BIOENERGETICS AND LEG COMPOSITION ACROSS THE HUMAN LIFE COURSE
Authors: Arciniega Adrian , Phang Howard , Bergstrom Jaclyn , Molina Anthony
Published: January 2025

The human aging process is marked by changes in body composition, such as muscle loss and bone loss, which may be related to mitochondrial dysfunction. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are being used to report on systematic mitochondrial function and have been associated with the bioenergetic capacity of various tissues. Given the ability of PBMCs to recapitulate systemic bioenergetics, we investigated the associations between PBMC bioenergetics and lower extremity composition. We hypothesized that PBMC bioenergetics are significantly associated with measures of leg composition. In this study we utilized data from the San Diego Nathan Shock Center (SD-NSC) clinical cohort which measured blood cell bioenergetics and body composition in healthy adults across the human life course. Pearson Correlation analysis (ntotal=48) revealed strong negative correlations between PBMC respiration and leg bone mineral content (basal r=-0.358, max r=-0.274), femoral area (basal r=-0.369, max r=-0.308), and femoral bone mineral content (basal r=-0.405, max r=-0.329). Partial correlation analyses indicated that significant associations persist when controlling for age and BMI. Further stratification by sex revealed that these relationships were primarily driven by female participants (n=29). These results suggest that blood bioenergetics are related to leg composition in adults regardless of age and play a role in body composition, particularly among women.
IMPACT OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE ON SUPRACHIASMATIC NUCLEUS CONNECTIVITY, SLEEP REGULATION, AND CIRCADIAN RHYTHM
Authors: Shen Yiyi , Calligaro Hugo , Lam Michael , Khov Brian , Kim Keunyoung , Ju Wonkyu , Ellisman Mark , Panda Satchidananda
Published: January 2025

Circadian disruption, notably sleep disturbances, serves as an early indicator of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), preceding cognitive symptoms such as memory impairment. Despite this, the underlying anatomical and functional mechanisms driving circadian disruption in AD remain elusive. The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) serves as the central pacemaker regulating circadian rhythm and as the principal hub for entraining circadian rhythm. Here, we explore the relationships between SCN connectome evolution, sleep regulation, and circadian rhythm disruption in the APP/PS1 mouse model. In 3 to 8-month-old APP/PS1 mice, we obtained SCN image volumes via serial block-face scanning electron microscopy. We noted serval modifications in SCN connectomics, including a dendro-dendritic chemical synapse network reduction, crucial for synchronicity between SCN neurons, and a reduction of axonal boutons volume. In addition, we recorded electroencephalograms, electromyograms, temperature, and locomotor activity of 8-month-old WT and APP/PS1 mice to assess their sleep patterns. APP/PS1 mice displayed significantly reduced rapid-eye-movement sleep, associated with a reduced daily temperature amplitude and locomotor hyperactivity. Lastly, in 10 to 15-month-old APP/PS1 mice, we measure locomotor and metabolic activity change in response to acute light stimulation and light-dark cycle shift. APP/PS1 mice showed a decreased circadian fluctuation in metabolic activity and an impaired response to acute light pulse stimulation or phase shift. These preliminary results suggest considerable changes in the SCN connectivity may be responsible for circadian disruption in those with AD. Further investigation will evaluate the use of non-pharmacological approaches to mitigate the observed circadian disruption.
DEPRESCRIBING AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH CANCER
Authors: Coates Martha , Hajjar Emily , DiMaria-Ghalili Rose Ann
Published: January 2025

Older adults with cancer experience high rates of polypharmacy (>5 medications daily) and potentially inappropriate medication use which are associated with adverse health outcomes and negatively impact quality of life. Deprescribing, the process of lowering drug exposure or removing medications that could cause harm or no longer provide benefit, can reduce the risk of negative outcomes. There is limited research examining the acceptance toward deprescribing in older adults with cancer, therefore the purpose of this study was to examine deprescribing acceptance among Medicare beneficiaries with cancer. We utilized the National Health and Aging Trends Study Round 6 (2016) dataset and included individuals who answered the Medication Attitudes Module (n=1975). Among the participants, 6.1% (n=121) reported having a history of cancer and over half were experiencing polypharmacy. Older adults with cancer strongly agreed or agreed that they took a large number of medications (63%), would like to reduce their medications (74.4%) and if their doctor suggested it they would stop one or more of their medications (95.8%). Despite these high levels of agreement, participants were also found to disagree they took medications they didn’t need (77%) and highly agreed all of their medications were necessary (93.3%). Older adults with cancer are willing to stop medications they may no longer need if suggested by their healthcare provider, but strongly disagree they are taking medications they do not need. Further research is needed to examine patient perceived facilitators and barriers to deprescribing medications that may no longer be needed in individuals with cancer.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN COUNTY TEMPERATURE AND LIMITATIONS IN ADLS IN A REPRESENTATIVE SAMPLE OF 1.7 MILLION OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Fuller-Thomson Esme , Brooks Holly , Fuller-Thomson Elysia , MacNeil Andie
Published: January 2025

Few studies have explored whether there is an association between area temperature and limitations in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as serious difficulty with bathing and dressing. The objectives of this study were: (1) To examine the relationship between average county temperature during the coldest month of the year (i.e., January or February) (< 27°F, 27-31.9°F; 32-36.9°F; 37-41.9°F; ≥42°F) and the prevalence and adjusted odds of limitations in ADLs; and (2) To examine the relationship between the area’s hottest month’s average temperature (< 70°F, 70-74.9°F, 75-79.9°F, ≥80°F) and the prevalence and adjusted odds of limitations in ADLs. The sample included 1.7 million adults aged 65+ who responded to the nationally representative American Community Survey (2012-2017). After adjustments for age, sex, education, household income, race and time zone, there was a robust dose-response relationship indicating those living in areas with a higher average temperature during the coldest month had higher odds of limitations in ADLs. For example, in comparison to older adults living in regions where the coldest month’s average temperature was < 27°F, those living in areas where the temperature was slightly above freezing (32-36.9°F) had 22% higher adjusted odds of ADL limitations (OR=1.22; 95%CI=1.19, 1.25) and those living in regions where the temperature averaged ≥42°F had 33% higher odds (OR=1.33: 95%CI-1.30, 1.36). There was no significant relationship between the regional hottest month’s average temperature and ADL limitations. Future research is needed to explore why the absence of sub-freezing temperatures is associated with elevated odds of ADLs.
OLDER ADULTS AND CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION STRATEGIES: A SCOPING REVIEW
Authors: Holland Alexandra , Milani Sadaf
Published: January 2025

Climate change is one of the biggest threats to human health, resulting in an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, storms, and other natural disasters. Older adults are at an increased risk from these effects and often have higher rates of morbidity and mortality from climate change-related impacts. As climate change progresses, adaptive strategies are critical for reducing the disproportionate health burden many older adults face. However, little is known about what evidence-based adaptive mechanisms exist that are appropriate for older adults. To address this gap, we conducted a scoping review to identify potential climate change adaptation strategies and solutions for older adults. An Ovid MEDLINE search was done using search terms related to “older adults”, “health”, and “climate change adaptation.” Articles had to be in English and focused on adaptation to climate change for older adults. The initial search returned 399 articles, and after article review, we found 133 articles that met our inclusion criteria. Most of the articles with findings related to climate change adaptation focused on extreme temperatures, such as heatwaves, followed by natural disasters. Emergent themes of the review include older adults’ perception of their own vulnerability and individual adaptive actions and behaviors. There was a lack of research involving systemic adaptive actions aside from national heat plans and built environment modifications. This scoping review can be used to increase older adults’ resilience and inform future systemic adaptive actions to prevent disproportionate morbidity and mortality due to climate change.
LONG-TERM PANDEMIC EFFECTS ON SOCIAL ACTIVITY AND LONELINESS AMONG OLDER ADULTS IN AN URBAN COMMUNITY
Authors: Lindsay Rebecca , Gaye Angela , Lee-Turner Meosia , Hill-Ashford Yolanda , Brewer Robin , Robinson-Lane Sheria , Janevic Mary
Published: January 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic sharply curtailed social activity among older adults. In Detroit, an underserved area impacted by structural inequities, older adults were at particularly high risk for social isolation, given the digital divide and prolonged closures of senior and community centers. While daily life has now mostly normalized, little is known about the extent to which older adults have re-engaged in social activities following the lengthy disruption. We examined baseline data collected in 2023-24 from an ongoing randomized controlled trial in Detroit of the RESET intervention (Re-Engaging in Self-care, Enjoying Today). Participants rated their level of 1) loneliness and 2) social activity compared to pre-pandemic (1=much lower to 5=much higher). The sample (N=213) was 91% female and 85% African American, mean age 68 years (range 50 to 90), and 54% lived alone. Almost half (46.0%%) of the sample reported that their current social activity level was much lower or lower than pre-pandemic, and 34.8% that their loneliness level was much higher or higher. No significant differences were found by age group (under 65 vs 65+) or living alone vs. with others. We then examined open-ended responses to a question about continued pandemic impact. Major themes were: ongoing fear of COVID-19 infection, caution about gatherings/crowds, and persistent mood problems. These data show that for some older adults, the pandemic continues to have adverse effects on social activity and loneliness. Targeted interventions that address and accommodate older adults’ ongoing COVID-19 concerns may be needed to boost social functioning in this group.
PROBLEMS AND DISTRESS AMONG OLDER ADULTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A LONGITUDINAL THEMATIC ANALYSIS
Authors: Aldwin Carolyn , Igarashi Heidi , Kurth Maria , Choun Soyoung
Published: January 2025

Despite their greater physical risk and social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, older adults reported better mental health and less stress than younger adults, perhaps because they often under-report mental health symptoms and stress in quantitative studies. However, only two small qualitative studies examined stress over time older adults during the pandemic. We examined longitudinal qualitative data on weekly COVID-related problems from internet surveys over an eight-week period early on during the pandemic; 236 out of 249 (95%) respondents reported any problems; of these, 208 (97%) reported problems at three or more time points (nobs=1495, 6.07, SD=2.54, range=3-8). The sample ranged in age from 55-95 (M=71.34, SD=7.29); 74% female, 89% white, and 54% BA+. Using content analysis, we identified 15 codes (Krippendorf’s cu-alpha =.714). Across time, most respondents (76%) described consistent types of difficulties (> 50% of the episodes); problems with everyday protective activities (restrictions, mask wearing) was most common (28%), followed by social connections (missing friends and family; 18%) and psychological distress (17%), often expressed in everyday language, e.g., “cabin fever,” “grinding uncertainty,” or through diacritics (e.g., all caps, multiple exclamation points). However, thematic analysis showed that 27% changed over time, with 7% describing greater social isolation and 9% increasing psychological distress, balanced by 11% who showed increasing adjustment (managing risk). The latter two codes often co-occurred; perhaps navigating an ever-changing COVID landscape increased uncertainty and anxiety. This analysis provided a more nuanced view: problems were near universal in older adults and distress not uncommon.
PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF INCREASING HATE CRIMES AGAINST ASIAN AMERICANS AND PERCEPTIONS OF ACTIVISM DURING COVID-19
Authors: Kim Eunhye , Choi Y Joon , Griffith Candace
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to examine how Asian hate crimes impact Korean American older adults’ daily life and their perception of social advocacy during COVID-19.

Background

In addition to the health crisis, Asian Americans have experienced more risk and challenges during the pandemic due to the explosion of anti-Asian hate crime incidents. Violence against older Asian Americans increases fear and anxiety not only for individuals directly affected but for entire Asian communities. In this regard, understanding older Asian Americans’ perception of hate crimes against Asians and their attitudes about social advocacy can help guide support and services for this population.

Methods

A qualitative approach was used for this study, including semi-structured interview guides with 23 Korean American older adults. Data organization was conducted with Nvivo12, employing thematic analysis to identify key themes and sub-themes.

Results

The findings showed that participants believed that rising anti-Asian hate crimes have restricted Asian American’s daily activities by increasing fear and feelings of being perpetual foreigners in American society. Participants believed that social action is necessary to change society, but they still hold passive attitudes on social action and have a lack of resources. They believed leaders and other powerful figures in the community rather than individuals should address social problems.

Conclusion

Findings from this study highlight the psychological impact of anti-Asian hate crimes and the importance of expanding support for ethnic minority older adults to voice out and promoting increased advocacy for this population.
THE PANDEMIC AND DIGITAL DIVIDE FOR OLDER ADULTS: LONGITUDINAL ANALYSIS FROM THE NATIONAL HEALTH AGING TRENDS STUDY
Authors: Kim BoRin , Park Joonhyeog , Cho Joonyoung , Park Sojung
Published: January 2025

Older adults have been disadvantaged in utilizing information and communication technologies (ICTs). The pandemic has underscored the importance of ICTs in facilitating remote activities such as social connectivity, banking, and shopping. This study explored transitions of ICT use among older adults and investigated the impact of the pandemic on the digital divide. Data came from five waves of the National Health and Aging Trend Study (2018~2022), and our sample included respondents over 70 years at the baseline (N=1,717). Latent transition profile analysis was used to identify distinct subgroups of ICT use and to analyze the change and stability of subgroups based on five ICT use measures: emails, online search, online grocery shopping, Internet banking, and social media. Multinominal regression analyses were used to examine the factors impacting the transitions of ICT use. Four distinct clusters were identified: minimal, email-only, moderate, and diverse/heavy users. The largest subgroup was minimal users (42~45%), followed by diverse/heavy users (25~28%). More than 90% of older adults in these two groups stayed in the same group over time, which shows a significant digital divide. Email-only users were characterized by a stronger tendency toward moderate users (transition probabilities=20~27.5%). While socioeconomic status was a significant predictor of the digital divide before the pandemic, social support was found to be critical to helping older adults use more diverse and frequent ICTs after the pandemic. Our empirical findings provide evidence of exacerbating the digital divide during the pandemic and highlight the importance of social support in reducing the digital divide.
ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SUBJECTIVE AGE AND GRIP STRENGTH IN OLDER POPULATIONS
Authors: Paccagnella Omar
Published: January 2025

Subjective age is the extent to which an individual feels younger or older than his/her chronological age. A large amount of literature shows that feeling younger is associated with better physical, psychological and cognitive outcomes. In this work, we exploit the richness and the comparability of three sister surveys on ageing (HRS, ELSA, SHARE, using both the Gateway to Global Aging Data platform and the original datasets) to investigate the relationship between subjective age and handgrip strength, that can be thought as an objective measure of physical health. Three different countries (UK, US, Israel) are separately analyzed and data on subjective age are collected in three different time periods (2004, 2008, 2015, respectively). The common framework is provided by the grip measurements that are collected four years later than subjective age answers in each survey. A set with the same harmonized characteristics across all countries is identified and used in the final estimations. The Heckman selection model is the adopted solution, to take sample selection bias (due to attrition) into account. Models are estimated by gender. The main results of our analysis are: i) controlling for selection bias, no statistically significant relationship between subjective age and grip strength appears in any country, reversing many findings we can observe when selectivity effects are neglected; ii) subjective age can be a promising exclusion variable when a selection approach is adopted (individuals who feel younger than their chronological age are more likely to collect data in subsequent survey waves).
SENSORY DIFFICULTIES AND SOCIAL ISOLATION AMONG MEXICAN, US HISPANIC AND, US NON-HISPANIC INDIVIDUALS
Authors: Tanner Corinna Trujillo , Yorgason Jeremy , Fankhouser Rebekah Case , Olmo Jeana , Wanlass Jase , Markides Kyriakos , Ehrlich Joshua , Wettstein Markus
Published: January 2025

The Hispanic cultural value of Familismo describes strong identification and attachment of individuals with their families and is protective against social isolation. Hispanics comprise the largest minority group in the US and are more likely to live in intergenerational households. Sensory difficulty, including vision and hearing difficulty, are prevalent among older adults, disproportionately affecting Hispanic individuals. Research shows that aging and sensory difficulty are associated with an increased risk of social isolation. Using data from adults age 50 to 100 that participated in the Mexican Health and Aging Study, and Hispanic and non-Hispanic participants of the Health and Retirement Study, we explored how sensory difficulty related to social isolation. Social isolation was measured by assessing whether or not participants lived alone, had weekly contact with children and friends/relatives, and if they participated in weekly social activities. Findings suggested that vision and hearing difficulty rates were much higher among Mexican and US Hispanic individuals compared to US non-Hispanics. In contrast, social isolation was higher among US non-Hispanic individuals. Regression models with sensory difficulty predicting social isolation by country/ethnicity indicated that vision difficulty was associated with social isolation for Mexican and US non-Hispanic individuals, but not for US Hispanics. Hearing difficulty was associated with social isolation only for US non-Hispanic individuals. Among Mexican and US Hispanic individuals, it appears that age accounts for social isolation more so than sensory difficulty, and Familismo appears to protect against isolation. Among US non-Hispanics, sensory difficulty contribute to social isolation to a greater extent.
ASSESSING THE INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND GOALS OF DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS: DEVELOPMENT OF THE COPE-ING MEASURE
Authors: Aguirre Alyssa , Benge Jared , Samson Andrew
Published: January 2025

Caregivers of persons living with dementia (PLWD) are diverse, yet there is a shortage of measures that efficiently identify the personalized needs and goals of a given caregiver. To address this gap, this study outlines the development of an Individualized Needs and Goals assessment for use with the Caregiver Outcomes of Psychotherapy Evaluation (COPE-ING). In phase 1, 52 participants (N=28 caregivers; N=24 dementia professionals) were recruited to provide feedback on the preliminary COPE-ING measure. Participants rated each item on a Likert scale (1- Not important at all to 5-Extremely Important) on how important they felt each item is to dementia caregivers. While all items were endorsed as important, qualitative feedback emphasized the need for simpler language, substituting ‘cognitive impairment’ with ‘dementia’ and providing specific examples of services. A revised version of the COPE-ING was subsequently administered in an ongoing clinical sample. In preliminary findings, initial analysis revealed great heterogeneity in caregiver perceived top priorities for care, with 30% selecting learning more about dementia as a top priority, but a wide variety of topics being selected as top priorities for the remainder of the sample. These findings outline the initial development of the COPE-ING, a novel measure designed to capture the individualized needs and goals of dementia caregivers. This study underscores the importance of creating caregiver measures that extend beyond burden. The COPE-ING holds promise for use in evidence-based interventions to facilitate the rapid identification of caregiver needs and goals in hospital or community settings.
CAREGIVER PHYSICAL HEALTH AND RISK OF ABUSE AND NEGLECT AMONG PERSONS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Bennett Henrietta , Browning Wesley , Yildiz Mustafa , Pickering Carolyn
Published: January 2025

Dementia family caregivers face unique challenges that increase their risk for poor physical health. Caregivers with worse physical health may have difficulty completing caregiving tasks, placing their care recipients at risk of negative health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of caregivers’ satisfaction with daily sleep quality and self-reported global health and the daily risk of engaging in abusive and neglectful behaviors towards their care recipient. Using a micro-longitudinal approach, the study included 453 family caregivers who lived with and provided unpaid care to a family member living with dementia. Results from Generalized Linear Mixed models revealed that caregivers who reported being more satisfied with their sleep quality than normal on a given day had a 23% lower likelihood of engaging in physically aggressive behaviors (OR = 0.77, p <.05) and a 20% lower likelihood of engaging in psychologically aggressive behaviors that same day (OR = 0.80, p <.001). Similarly, better than average sleep satisfaction on a given day was found to have a protective effect against neglect, with a 9% reduction in the likelihood of engaging in neglectful behaviors (OR = 0.91, p <.01). Caregiver self-reported health did not affect daily odds of abusive and neglectful behaviors. These findings identify sleep satisfaction as a modifiable daily protective factor against elder abuse and neglect and suggest a need for adaptation and implementation of sleep interventions for dementia family caregivers.
DEMENTIA RISK ATTRIBUTED TO THREE METABOLIC FACTORS: A BURDEN OF PROOF STUDY
Authors: Nguyen Anh Thy , Xu Yvonne Yiru , Dai Xiaochen , Razo Christian , Ong Liane , Chen Natalie , Buxbaum Channa , Steinmetz Jaimie
Published: January 2025

Hypertension, diabetes, and obesity are three widely recognized drivers of dementia risk. However, the dose-response relationships between continuous indicators of these conditions and dementia incidence and mortality have not been quantified systematically. The Burden of Proof methodology, a meta-analytic framework developed by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, enables a robust estimation of these relationships along exposure ranges, considers between-study heterogeneity, and enables comparisons of the strength of evidence between risk-outcome pairs. Using this framework, we estimated the mean relative risk (RR) and uncertainty intervals (UI) that account for between-study heterogeneity for systolic blood pressure (SBP; 51 studies), fasting plasma glucose (FPG; 11 studies), and body mass index (BMI; 15 studies). For SBP, compared to 100 mmHg, the estimated mean RR for dementia was 1.03 (95% UI=1.00-1.07) at 140 mmHg (threshold for hypertension), increasing to 1.17 (95% UI=1.01-1.37) at 180 mmHg. At an FPG value of 7 mmol/L (consistent with diabetes diagnosis), mean RR was 1.31 (95% UI=1.07-1.61, compared to 4 mmol/L), increasing to 1.51 (95% UI=1.10-2.06) at 8 mmol/L (85th percentile of exposure). For BMI, mean RR estimates were above 1.00, although the estimates were not statistically significant. Our findings highlight the significant impact of elevated SBP and FPG levels on increasing dementia risk, underscoring the importance of managing blood pressure and glucose levels in the population. The marginal association between BMI and dementia merits further investigation to understand to its influence within the broader spectrum of dementia risk factors.
NEIGHBORHOOD LIFE FOR PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-SYNTHESIS OF WALKING INTERVIEWS
Authors: Wang Wenjin , Chen Xi , Lee Chanam , Zhang Ziying
Published: January 2025

The number of persons with dementia (PwDs) is rising significantly, with most still residing in the community and spending much time within their neighborhoods. This study aims to provide a critical and comprehensive review of existing qualitative studies documenting the impact of neighborhood environments on PwDs’ attitudes and perceptions toward their neighborhood life. A systematic search of Web of Science, Pubmed, CINAHL Ultimate, APA PsycInfo, Academic Search Ultimate, and EMBASE was conducted. Empirical studies on community-dwelling PwDs that use walking interviews in the neighborhoods were included in the review/synthesis. Meta-synthesis guided data collection, quality assessment, and analysis. The search resulted in 17317 articles of which 17 met the eligibility criteria. They had a combined sample of 186 people with memory problems, mild cognitive impairment, or dementia. Preliminary results suggest three themes— (1) Physical environment: Land use, urban design, transportation, wayfinding and legibility, and outdoor interaction and comfort are integral for PwDs connecting with the neighborhood; (2) Social Environment: Care, support, and connections foster PwDs‘social health, while neighborhood engagement and belonging enhance their identity and quality of life; (3) Technological Environment: Access to and use of technology can bridge gaps in PwDs’ everyday communication and activity, facilitating their presence and engagement. This is the first effort to synthesize qualitative evidence obtained directly from community-dwelling PwDs who face additional challenges in maintaining a positive neighborhood life. The significant roles of the many environmental elements/features across the physical, social, and technology domains can guide future research and practice toward creating dementia-friendly communities.
PAIN COMPETENCY EVALUATION IN DEMENTIA (PACED) SCALE: DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF CONTENT VALIDITY
Authors: Liao Yo-Jen , Jao Ying-Ling , Boltz Marie , Chi Nai-Ching , Berish Diane , Murphy Terrence
Published: January 2025

Pain management remains under-addressed among persons with dementia; understanding nurses’ pain management competency in this particular population is a first step. However, limited tools objectively evaluate nurses’ pain management competency among people with dementia. This study aimed to develop Pain Competency Evaluation in Dementia (PACED), an observational scale to evaluate nurses’ pain management competency in those with dementia. Reviews of pain management literature, guidelines, and protocols were conducted and consisted of five sections: history taking, pain assessment, physical and functional assessment, pain treatment, and documentation. Each item is scored on a 0-3 scale (0=not performed, 1=inaccurate, 2=partially accurate, or 3=accurate). This scale was distributed to seven researchers and clinicians with expertise in pain and/or dementia to evaluate its content validity using a Delphi survey approach. Each expert rated each item on a 1-4 scale (1= unclear/irrelevant to 4=very clear/relevant). The index of content validity (I-CVI) was calculated as the proportion of items with ratings of 3 and 4, with higher scores indicating better clarity/relevancy. A relevance I-CVI>0.79 and a clarity I-CVI≥0.83 are considered relevant and clear, respectively. Results showed that 24/24 items are relevant (mean I-CVI=0.97 [SD=0.06]) and 9/24 items are clear (mean I-CVI=0.73 [SD=0.12]). Experts suggested creating a monitoring tool/checklist for nurses, combining similar items, and adding more details for certain items. Further revisions are needed for the 15 unclear items across 5 sections. Psychometric evaluations are essential to validate the PACED scale. Ultimately, the validated PACED scale will help improve pain management in persons with dementia.
PCP PRACTICES AND ATTITUDES AROUND COGNITIVE SCREENING IN RHODE ISLAND
Authors: Lawrence Molly , Howe Matthew , De Vito Alyssa , Eaton Charles , Thompson Louisa
Published: January 2025

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are on the front lines for detecting cognitive changes in older adults but often have significant time constraints and are tasked with managing multiple conditions. For this reason, cognitive screening and follow up referrals need to be more efficient and effective. This study aims to evaluate how PCPs in Rhode Island (RI) manage memory concerns and cognitive screening. We created a 14-question, 5-minute survey which assessed several domains including level of familiarity, frequency of use and confidence with types of cognitive screening as well as barriers to screening and follow up. The survey was programed in Qualtrics and distributed through the RI Academy of Family Physicians. We received 48 responses and 26 of those were at least 50% complete. The MMSE (36.4%), MoCA (25.3%) and MiniCog (31.3%) were the top three screening assessments used. 77.3% of PCPs reported being “Very confident” or “Fairly confident” in conducting cognitive assessments, while only 2.3% were not at all confident. The three most frequently reported barriers to administering cognitive screening were: not have enough time for testing during appointments (23%), managing higher acuity conditions (13.2%) and not have enough time for counseling (13.2%). The top three barriers to referral to a memory specialist were: long wait times (31.5%), not enough resources (18.5%), and patient refusal (13.9%). Data collection is ongoing, but these preliminary findings provide insight into the current practices among RI PCPs and highlights time as a key limitation at multiples stages of memory screening and management by PCPs.
STARTING FROM STRENGTH: BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS IN COMMUNITY ENGAGED INTERVENTION RESEARCH FOR DEMENTIA INCLUSION
Authors: Novek Sheila , Furneaux Heather Neale , Macnaughton Eric , Malcolm Paulina , Monteiro Andréa , Phinney Alison
Published: January 2025

The majority of people with dementia live at home, often disconnected and isolated from their community. Canada’s Public Health Agency recognizes that community-based organizations are well positioned to address this issue, and through its Dementia Community Investment is advancing social innovation as a strategy for increasing inclusion, well-being, and quality of life for this growing population. The Building Capacity Project (2019-23) used asset-based community development to foster dementia inclusion through community programs and activities. Using developmental evaluation with community partners in Vancouver Canada, we identified a core set of guiding principles and promising practices for supporting dementia inclusive innovations in community programming: addressing stigma; including lived experience; organizational coaching; and social networking. Now in Phase 2 (2023-25), we are doing community-engaged intervention research, using the Evidence Based System for Innovation Support as a theoretical framework to scale out impacts with new partners in urban and rural communities across the region. As a first step, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 12 representatives from seven community organizations. Based on a thematic analysis of the interview data, we identified three areas for further capacity building for dementia inclusion: (1) reframing dementia as a shared experience; (2) growing confidence; (3) centering joy; and (4) making connections. These findings set the stage for further work as organizations identify strategies for reaching out to people with lived experience at the local level, expand opportunities for more diverse program offerings in multiple languages, and leverage opportunities for integration across municipalities, health systems, and the social services sector.
STATE-LEVEL EDUCATION QUALITY AND DEMENTIA INCIDENCE IN THE UNITED STATES
Authors: Cha Hyungmin , Farina Mateo , Jackson Heide , Ailshire Jennifer , Walsemann Katrina
Published: January 2025

Despite the robust link between education and dementia risk, less is known about how state education quality relates to dementia, particularly regarding how it differs by race. Drawing on data from the Health and Retirement Study (2000-2018) of adults aged 55 years and older, linked to historical state school investment records from 1914 to 1959, we employed hazard models to examine the association between state-level education quality and dementia onset. Our findings reveal a significant association between state education quality and dementia risk, and this association remains consistent across both White and Black adults. These results suggest that state investment in public education may have long-ranging influences on dementia onset, with consistent effects observed across racial subpopulations.
TESTING THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN PSYCHOTROPICS AND OPIOIDS WITH FUNCTION IN HOSPITALIZED OLDER ADULTS WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Kim Nayeon , Resnick Barbara
Published: January 2025

The aim of this study was to test if the use of psychotropic medications (antipsychotics, sedatives, antiseizure, antidepressants, and anxiolytics) and opioids were associated with physical function in hospitalized older adults living with dementia. This study was a secondary data analysis using baseline data from the Function Focused Care for Acute Care Using the Evidence Integration Triangle (FFC-AC-EIT) study, which is an ongoing randomized controlled trial. The first 369 participants were included. It was hypothesized that controlling for age, gender, race, comorbidities, cognitive function, and pain, the use of psychotropic medications and opioids would be negatively associated with physical function in the first 48 hours of admission. A path analysis was done to test this model using the AMOS statistical program. Overall, 72.5% (n=230) of the sample was on at least one psychotropic medication, and 18.8% (n=69) of the sample was on at least one opioid. Neither being on an opioid nor psychotropic medications was associated with function. Comorbidities, cognition, and pain were, however, significantly associated with physical function, such that those who had more comorbidities, better cognition, and less pain were more functionally independent. The findings support prior research showing a lack of association between psychotropic medication use and opioid use with physical function for hospitalized older adults. These drugs may be used appropriately to manage symptoms that allow for functional engagement of patients. Additional research is needed to continue to investigate the association of these medications with function and potential benefit versus harm.
“WE CAN BE PART OF YOUR PLAN”: ADAPTING AND PILOTING A VA EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS TOWN HALL FOR HOME HEALTH AGENCIES
Authors: Hall Lauren , Wyte-Lake Tamar , Franzosa Emily , Solorzano Emily , Dobalian Aram
Published: January 2025

Home health agencies (HHAs) provide vital community-based care that helps older adults age in place. As climate-related disasters increase in frequency and intensity, HHA services become more critical. However, research shows HHAs are often under-resourced and disconnected from community-wide emergency planning efforts, threatening the continuity of services. As the nation’s largest integrated health system, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is uniquely positioned to support community HHAs serving veterans during disasters. We interviewed 19 key stakeholders (VA emergency managers, VA primary and community care staff, and administrators of contracted HHAs) from six VHA Medical Centers (VAMC) in a northeastern region (VISN 2) to generate strategies for VA to better support contracted home health providers. Participants offered innovative ideas including relatively low-resource suggestions and higher-level interventions (email groups, pocket emergency guides, staff training). Based on one site’s successful training for community providers of Medical Foster Home services, we worked with stakeholders to adapt and pilot a town hall and “resource fair” for home health agencies, scheduled for July 2024. Core sessions include guidance preparing emergency plans, an overview of VA benefits, and links to community resources. Stakeholders can also access 1-to-1 support on specific issues and offer suggestions for trainings VA can offer home health aides. Stakeholders identified potential challenges of town halls, including HHAs’ need to balance emergency preparedness with other priorities, and the broad geographical area which could limit attendance. This presentation will cover successes, challenges and lessons learned as we plan for scaling this effort at other sites.
AGE DIFFERENCES IN DEATH ATTITUDES IN THE CONTEXT OF MULTIDIMENSIONAL TORNADO IMPACTS
Authors: Chen Zhirui , Cong Zhen
Published: January 2025

This study examined the age differences in various attitudes towards death following tornado exposures, as well as the moderating effect of multidimensional tornado impacts. Data used was from the first wave of longitudinal study “Vulnerability and Resilience to Disasters” (N = 1,067). Latent class analysis was conducted to explore the underlying patterns of negative tornado impacts based on 15 indicators. Three latent classes were identified: low overall impacts with high power outage rate (Low-PO), moderate overall impacts with high emotional distress (Moderate-ED), and severe overall impacts. Subsequently, the results of linear regressions showed that relative to young-old adults aged 65-74, those aged 18-34 were more likely to have an intense fear of death and those aged 75+ were less likely to have an intense fear of death (Death Fear); people aged 18-34 were more likely to avoid thought of death when it entered mind (Death Avoidance); and those aged 18-34 and 35-49 were less likely to agree that death is an entrance to a place of ultimate satisfaction (Approach Acceptance). However, compared to younger and middle-aged adults, young-old adults were more likely to avoid thought of death when it entered mind and were less likely to agree that death is a natural aspect of life (Neutral Acceptance) if they belonged to the Moderate-ED class. These findings highlighted the resilience and death anxiety of older adults after experiencing multidimensional tornado impacts, which can provide important implications for the development of age-responsible mental health programs in post-disaster recovery.