bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Gender Differences in Volunteer Behavior Among Older Asian Americans
Authors: Lai Patrick Ho Lam , Matz Christina , Halvorsen Cal
Published: December 2021

Prior research has documented the health and well-being effects of volunteerism in later life, and that positive outcomes increase in the first 100 volunteer hours/year and slightly increase between 100-200 hours. Given this, it seems that using an intersectional lens to explore disparities in volunteer behaviors and what might explain them is important from a health equity standpoint. Using data from 268,194 individuals aged 65-85 from the most recently available Volunteer Supplement of the Current Population Survey, this study found that White older adults were most likely to spend any time in volunteer activities, while Asian and Hispanic older adults were least, across all racial/ethnic groups. Further, the percentage of older Asian women volunteering in the 100-200 hour range (27%) was significantly higher than that of older Asian men (19%). Social and cultural factors that may explain these racial/gender differences and implications for recruiting older adults as volunteers are discussed.
Connecting Grandparent Caregivers Through Telemental Health During COVID-19
Authors: Lee Youjung , Bronstein Laura , Cook Kelley
Published: December 2021

Since the COVID-19 outbreak, children and their caregivers throughout the world are experiencing unprecedented long-term social isolation. For too many, especially grandparent-headed families, underrepresented minorities, and those living in poverty, this precipitates and exacerbates mental health conditions including anxiety and depression. Despite these families’ increased needs for mental health services during the pandemic, professionals often lack experience and expertise in telemental health, which is a safe and effective way to provide these services. In this symposium, we will present a telemental health model for working with grandparent-headed families that draws upon Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), an evidence-based approach focusing on strengths. This SFBT-based telemental health training program prepares mental health professionals to implement this safe and innovative intervention, enabling them to effectively serve isolated and marginalized grandparent caregivers and their families when providing in-person services is not possible.
Variety of Identifying and Assessing Preferences of Everyday Living of Older Adults
Authors: Roes Martina , Van Haitsma Kimberly
Published: December 2021

Identifying preference of older adults supports person-centred care. The most sophisticated instrument is the preference for everyday living inventory (PELI). The PELI has been translated into German language and tested in different care settings. For people who experience difficulties communicating their preference the PELI has been combined with photographs. The voice of older immigrants could lead to an enhancement of the PELI as well other preference tools. Thus, our symposium title: Variety of identifying and assessing preferences of everyday living of older adults. Our symposium includes four presentations: Dr. Bergmann will present data from a preference study in three different care settings (long-term care, nursing homes, adult day care) in Germany. The results indicate that the importance of certain preferences distinguishes between the care settings. Dr. Vanessa Burshnic will present data from her content validity study of photographs used to supplement the Preferences for Everyday Living Inventory-Nursing Home (PELI-NH) from the perspective of older adults. Content analysis revealed thematic codes describing participants’ photograph preferences including image quality, context, subject diversity, and relevance to long-term care. Mike Rommerskirch-Manietta will present results from a review to identify Instruments which can be used to assess preferences for everyday living of older adults. Interestingly instruments either represent multiple or only one domain. The study from Viktoria Peters-Nehrenheim does focus on preferences of older immigrants. She will present results how older immigrants (first generation) define preferences and how they can be assessed. Prof. Van Haitsma will be our discussant.
Instruments to Assess Preferences for Everyday Living of Older Adults With Various Care Needs: An Evidence Map
Authors: Rommerskirch-Manietta Mike , Purwins Daniel , Van Haitsma Kimberly , Abbott Katherine , Roes Martina
Published: December 2021

Background: Instruments to identify and assess preferences for everyday living are important tools for health professionals. For research purposes, they appear equally essential, for example, to develop new care approaches based on the preferences of the older adults. So far, it seemed unknown which instruments already exist to identify and assess preferences for everyday living. Method: We conducted an evidence map to identify instruments, to understand how preferences are assessed and which instruments are focusing everyday living. Results: We plotted our results in the form of a bubble plot. We identified instruments that map multiple domains (e. g. function and leisure activities) or only one topic (e. g. food, personal hygiene or brightness). Preferences are assessed using direct questions, frequencies, sorting, stimuli, or even scores. Our results show the variety of how preferences are defined and the range of instruments to assess preferences for everyday living of older adults.
Preferences of Older Immigrants in Nursing Care: A Scoping Review
Authors: Peters-Nehrenheim Viktoria , Tezcan-Guentekin Huerrem , Roes Martina
Published: December 2021

Background: Worldwide, our societies are characterized by an increasing diversity, greatly contributed by immigrants. When in need of care older immigrants face various barriers and serious challenges in terms of unmet preferences. To provide person-centered care, health care professionals need to consider the personal background of immigrants to identify and assess their individual preferences. Objective: To understand how preferences of older immigrants in nursing care are defined and how they can be assessed. Methods: A scoping review will be conducted to identify and analyze preferences of older immigrants across health care settings. Preliminary results: The literature search revealed that older immigrants in need of care define their preferences in terms of expectations and priorities. Differences among immigrants are related to the age of the person at the time of immigration, on cultural differences and/or on how the concepts of preferences in the country of origin is understood.
Comparing Nighttime to Rush Hour Avoidance as Initial Driving Self-Regulation Behaviors
Authors: Vivoda Jonathon , Molnar Lisa , Eby David , DiGuiseppi Carolyn , Jones Vanya , Li Guohua , Mielenz Thelma , Strogatz David
Published: December 2021

Aging is associated with an increase in avoidance of challenging driving situations (e.g., driving at night, during rush hour, on freeways, and in unfamiliar areas). Such avoidance behavior may be due to driving self-regulation (SR), an intentional response to perceived declining abilities, or it may be due to other factors such as lifestyle changes or preferences. Most previous research has not studied SR as the reason for avoidance, and has treated avoidance behaviors interchangeably. In addition, previous research has not differentiated one’s first SR behavior from those reported later in the process. This study included 1,557 participants from the AAA Longitudinal Research on Aging Drivers (LongROAD) to assess older adults’ initial self-regulatory behavior by comparing the frequency of nighttime, rush hour, freeway, and unfamiliar area avoidance among those who reported only one SR behavior. Nighttime SR was most common (58.8%), followed by rush hour (25.5%), unfamiliar areas (11.0%), and freeways (4.8%). Binary logistic regression was used to assess how demographics, function, and self-reported driving variables were related to different odds of reporting nighttime vs. rush hour avoidance (the two most common) as one’s initial SR behavior. Higher odds of reporting nighttime avoidance (compared to rush hour) as one’s initial SR behavior were related to female gender, low income, impaired visual acuity, better self-reported ability to see during the day, worse self-reported ability to see at night, less comfort driving at night, and more comfort driving during rush hour, and in unfamiliar areas.
Co-Designing a Social Connections Program With Older Adults
Authors: Emery-Tiburcio Erin , Chandy Jasmine , Stanley Padraic , Rodriguez-Morales Grisel
Published: December 2021

Loneliness presents a higher risk for mortality than smoking 15 cigarettes per day. COVID-19 has exacerbated loneliness for many older adults, without access to family, friends, and community. Friendly caller programs utilizing volunteers to talk with older adults who are lonely can be helpful, providing much-needed contact. However, few lasting connections have formed in these programs. To enhance our social connections program, we systematically engaged a group of older adults who struggle with social isolation to co-design a program to meet their needs. This group met virtually twice for two hours to (1) identify contributors to their isolation, generate ideas for ideal program components, and how best to connect older adults to each other; and (2) to refine the multi-component program created by staff based on the first discussion. Group process and themes will be presented, along with a discussion of key issues in program co-design with older adults.
Dementia-Friendly America Recognition: Strategies for Urban, African American Communities
Authors: Washington Tarisha , Frick Susan , Shah Raj
Published: December 2021

Dementia-Friendly America is a network of communities across the United States who have committed to a process to support people living with dementia and their caregivers. Through technical support from Dementia Friendly Illinois, CATCH-ON, a HRSA Geriatric Workforce Engagement Program, has identified key characteristics for the 17 communities in Illinois achieving national recognition and for communities that have engaged but not yet achieved national recognition. In addition to communities in rural regions, urban communities with a large number of African Americans residents have necessitated more grassroots engagement than other communities. Partnerships are vital for providing information and education about the movement and for supporting multi-sectoral engagement. This presentation highlights barriers and facilitators in diverse communities, particularly urban African American communities, becoming recognized by Dementia Friendly America.
Rush@Home: Home-Based Primary Care Focused on Underserved Communities and Health Equity
Authors: Golden Robyn , Rackman Alexander , Davis Elizabeth , Santana Leticia , Rosenberg Walter
Published: December 2021

Homebound patients are often medically complex and are among those in greatest need of care and services. This is especially true for those that reside in underserved communities, where they face the added risk stemming from scarce community resources. Often these patients are only able to access health care for emergencies, which is ineffective and high cost. Rush@Home is a home-based primary care program that exemplifies the Age-Friendly Health System mission with a focus on the 4Ms, incorporating navigation and social work. Patients reflect the West Side of Chicago, with 80% of patients identifying as Black and/or Latino. During the first two years, Rush@Home demonstrated better care at a lower cost with readmission rates decreased by 11.8%, hospitalizations by 17.5%, length of stay by 8.7%, ED visits by 17.9%, and missed appointments by 72%. This presentation will highlight outcomes and discuss key issues in home-based primary care.
Resident and Family Engagement in Care Conferences: Important Processes and Supporting Strategies
Authors: Roberts Tonya , Cox Elizabeth , Tran Thuy Dan , Tepsa Hannah
Published: December 2021

Self-determination is a core value of person-centered care. Research has shown residents and families want to be involved in decisions about care. Care conferences are one existing structure where residents and families can engage in decision-making about care goals. However, there are few tools to support effective engagement. To inform future tool development, this study sought to understand what resident and family stakeholders value about engaging in care conferences. In virtual meetings, 16 stakeholders identified 3 key areas of engagement: being informed about health/well-being, influencing care goals, and advocating for needs. They indicated current approaches do not achieve these engagement goals, which is particularly problematic during COVID when families cannot engage in person. Stakeholders offered ideas for supporting engagement such as provision of data before the conference. The study has implications for individualizing care conferences and encouraging resident and family engagement in decision-making both during and beyond COVID.
COVID-19 and Person-Centered Care: Lessons Learned Through a Statewide Program for Nursing Homes
Authors: Cornelison Laci , Kaup Migette
Published: December 2021

Frail elders in nursing homes are the highest risk group for developing complications of COVID-19. This lead to a response from CMS and state regulators that was heavily focused on protection and safety through segregation and infection control. The purpose of this study was to gather the narrative of this pandemic response and understand the impact on person-centered care and be able to address provider needs in real-time. This qualitative method focused on nursing home providers who are a part of PEAK 2.0, a Medicaid pay-for-performance program in Kansas. Interviews with nursing home staff (n=168) revealed two critical themes of need; mandated responses disregarded elders’ autonomy and self-determination in decision making, and infection control strategies required new approaches to facets of resident care that still maintained dignity. This data, along with COVID-19 guidance were then used to inform feasible resource development and education to maintain PCC practices during the pandemic.
NIA Division of Behavioral and Social Research
Authors: Nielsen Lisbeth
Published: December 2021

Dr. Nielsen will discuss research priorities for the Division of Behavioral and Social Research. Dr. Nielsen will also be available for small group discussion.
Creating 'This is It' Moments in Gerontological Education
Authors: Brown Candace
Published: December 2021

We all have had “this is it” moments. And while many gerontologists will say they "fell" into the field, I solicit that educational paths are set before us and we have choice to which path that we take. Paths provide opportunities for discoveries about ourselves and in the case of gerontology, we have a breadth of choices. This is how I view teaching and why developing new courses in the field are a necessity. Change is constant; creating new paths for opportunities is optional. This lecture will provide how, as an educator, I accept my 'this is it' moments so I can effectively foster students to recognize their own 'this is it' moment(s) within gerontological education.
Evaluating a Multidisciplinary Team Approach to Elder Abuse
Authors: Morano Carmen , Berical Erin
Published: December 2021

This paper presents findings from a University and Community-based Agency collaboration to design and implement a preliminary evaluation of the Elder Abuse Multidisciplinary Team (E-MDT) Intervention. This intervention brings professionals from a variety of fields to investigate and respond to elder abuse. Data from 22 Interviews with staff along with anonymous survey data from E-MDT team members/staff (n=312) sought to establish team successes, challenges in implementation, and ongoing functioning. Themes that emerged in creating successful teams include: Establishing Buy-In and Trust of the team members, The Benefit of sharing experience and practical knowledge with other program sites; and Recognizing the Differences related to Onboarding and Sustaining New programs versus Sustaining Existing Programs. Themes related to responding during COVID revealed challenges such as Adapting to Technology and Inconsistent Access to the Internet. It was noted that remote meetings were easier to attend than face-to-face meetings. Data from the survey found the vast majority of respondents view the E-MDTs as having a positive impact on Clients (93%); while 93% of respondents indicated a positive impact on their Approach to Practice and the service area of their agency. Approximately 80% of the respondents indicated their multidisciplinary teams were Effective. Responses to 3-Open Ended questions included in the survey echoed similar themes from the interviews, as well as comments about their Professional Development and the complexity of responding to elder abuse. The paper will close with a discussion of the strategies used to facilitate the collaboration and complete the evaluation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Experiencing the COVID-19 Pandemic at Age 85 and Over: An MIT AgeLab Study With the 85+ Lifestyle Leaders Panel
Authors: Patskanick Taylor , D'Ambrosio Lisa
Published: December 2021

The oldest of older adults remain at the highest risk of developing severe illness, requiring hospitalization, or dying if infected with COVID-19. As a result, the discourse about the COVID-19 pandemic has centered on short-term sacrifices to “protect” older adults. Yet much remains to be known about the prolonged impact of the pandemic on the over-85 age demographic. This symposium shares findings from a longitudinal, mixed methods study with the MIT AgeLab’s 85+ Lifestyle Leaders panel, a panel of octogenarians and nonagenarians convened since 2015. This symposium offers an update to a 2020 GSA session shared regarding the initial, cross-sectional work conducted in March 2020 with this panel. Findings will be drawn from a series of 85 interviews with 15 participants, 14 focus groups (x̅ participants=19.3), and three surveys (March 2020, N=28; August 2020, N=18; November 2020, N=16) conducted with the panel regarding the impact of the pandemic on this group over the past year. The first presentation covers the Lifestyle Leaders’ adoption and use of technology throughout the pandemic, with a focus on telehealth. The second takes an in-depth look at the unique lived experiences of Lifestyle Leaders living in senior housing communities during the pandemic. The third explores the Lifestyle Leaders’ perspectives on cultivating resilience and caring for their mental health while in a pandemic. Finally, the fourth presentation shares the Lifestyle Leaders’ experiences with social isolation and loneliness during the pandemic, with a focus on how family relationships and engagement in intergenerational programming have changed.
Delivering a Group-Mediated Weight Loss and Activity Program to Older Adults With Chronic Pain in the MORPH Study
Authors: Fanning Jason , Brooks Amber , Nicklas Barbara , Rejeski W Jack
Published: December 2021

Chronic pain in aging is a potent cause and consequence of obesity, inactivity, and prolonged sedentary behavior, making these especially important targets for behavioral intervention. This study aimed to refine a theory-based group-mediated diet and sedentary behavior intervention for older adults with chronic pain. Participants (N=28) attended 12 weekly group meetings generally in home via WebEx and used an mHealth self-monitoring app as they attempted to move more often and reduce caloric intake. Relative to a control condition, the program produced improvements in physical function (η^2=.08), pain intensity (η^2=.12), sedentary time (η^2=.07), and weight loss (η^2=.21). Key findings related to effective remote group intervention delivery included: (1) the importance of a self-efficacy-enhancing technology orientation; (2) the value of small group bonding activities to seed communication; and (3) the impact of software choice on interpersonal communication. We will discuss the value of these findings for future remote intervention design.
Linking Religious Identity, Participation, and Faith to Domains of Mental Health in Late Life
Authors: Kahana Eva , Dahal Poshan , Bhatta Tirth , Ermoshkina Polina
Published: December 2021

Religiosity in late life has been linked to psychological well-being outcomes. However, there has been insufficient attention to complex associations between different domains of religiosity and domains of psychological wellbeing. We explored associations between religious identity, religious participation, religious coping (trust in God), and mental health indicators of depressive symptoms, life satisfaction, and positive/negative affect among 797 independent, retirement community-dwelling older adults. At baseline, religious identity (expressed as self- concept) and religious participation (church attendance) each were associated with fewer depressive symptoms (b=-0.47, p<0.05; b=-0.19, p<0.05). Religious identity, however, was significantly associated with both life satisfaction and positive affects but not with negative affect. Religious coping was associated with greater life satisfaction and positive affect. Our longitudinal analysis documented a statistically significant decline in depressive symptoms, and increase in life satisfaction and positive affect, with corresponding increase in religious identity over time. However, changes in religious identity did not lead to significant changes in negative affect over time. Religious coping and church attendance fully explained the influence of religious identity on changes in life satisfaction. Although the influence of religious identity on depressive symptoms and positive affect was weakened, its significant influence was maintained even after the consideration of religious coping and church attendance. Beyond religious identity, we also observed a significant increase in positive affect with a corresponding increase in religious coping. Overall, our findings support expectations that religious identification and practices are associated with greater psychological well-being among community dwelling old- old adults.
COVID-19, Older People’s Alcohol Use and Engagement With Support: A Rapid Evidence Synthesis
Authors: Bareham Bethany , Kaner Eileen , Spencer Liam , O'Keefe Hannah , Hanratty Barbara
Published: December 2021

COVID-19, and associated restrictions, have likely impacted older people’s alcohol use and related support needs, given disrupted routines and stress increase alcohol use in older populations. This rapid evidence synthesis aimed to examine older people’s (aged 50+) alcohol use, and engagement with alcohol support services during COVID-19. Seventy-six articles were identified through systematic database searches, reporting 63 survey, five qualitative, three pilot, and five hospital admission studies; of general and service-user populations of older drinkers. Data were drawn together through narrative synthesis. Alcohol use increased for up to 32% of older people, including service-users; particularly older women. Increased use was linked to anxiety, depression and emotional distress. Decreased use was more common in some older populations; particularly Mediterranean. Barriers such as web access and safe transport affected older service-users’ engagement with support. Support to address hazardous alcohol use amongst older people must be prioritised in wake of the pandemic.
The Intersection of Cancer, Geriatrics, and Gerontology: A Multidisciplinary Approach Across the Cancer Continuum
Authors: Krok-Schoen Jessica
Published: December 2021

Despite the majority of cancer survivors being older adults, the connection between oncology, geriatrics, and gerontology remains unexplored. Our symposium will provide insights across the cancer continuum from prevention through survivorship as well as a comprehensive view of the connection between gerontological and geriatric factors in oncology. Specifically, we will discuss the biopsychosocial and behavioral factors among older adults with cancer, their effect on health outcomes, and how researchers and clinicians can intervene to improve health outcomes. The first abstract by Dr. Cadet found that despite a lack of knowledge of options and harms of cancer screening among older adults with low health literacy, there was a desire to understand more to better their health. The second abstract by Dr. Bhattacharyya found that older patients with cancer experience high levels of social isolation, loneliness, and fear that are heightened by individual and technology-based barriers to telehealth. The third abstract by Dr. Carroll found that breast cancer survivors with good sleep quality had less accelerated biological aging than those with sleep problems. The fourth abstract by Dr. Krok-Schoen utilized one of the largest datasets of older women, the Women’s Health Initiative, and found multiple gerontological and geriatric factors associated with physical activity among older female cancer survivors. Closing this symposium is Dr. Guida, a Program Director at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), who will profile the current research efforts, programmatic priorities, and current funding in aging and cancer. These multidisciplinary researchers and clinicians will provide a comprehensive symposium regarding geriatric oncology.
Policy Series: The Older Americans Act, the Aging Network, and the Pandemic
Authors: Lindberg Brian
Published: December 2021

This session provides insights into how the pandemic challenged the capabilities and ingenuity of the Older Americans Act (OAA) programs and the aging network and what it means for in-home and community aging services now and in the future. Speakers will include key aging network stakeholders, who will discuss the overnight evolution of programs serving often isolated older adults.
Promoting Connections Through Creative Approaches to Research Engagement for Older African Americans
Authors: Perry Tam , Mitchell Jamie , Key Kent , Rorai Vanessa , Knurek Sean , Lichtenberg Peter
Published: December 2021

This presentation will feature innovative retention approaches that contributed to sustaining connections to older Black participants in the long-standing Healthier Black Elders Center (HBEC). The HBEC aims to address and reduce health disparities through research and education. In 2020, this outreach has included a telephone outreach program and a weekly social group, “The Party Line,” to promote connections and collect data on mental health, coping mechanisms and newly acquired skills, as well as health care access including access to masks, testing and tele-health. The presentation will also describe tailored approaches to initiating a Community Advisory Board and programming in Flint, MI and creative efforts to retain participants in Detroit, MI, thus ensuring the relationships between researchers and older community members are sustained despite program modifications.
Evolution of Natural Lifespan Variation and Molecular Strategies of Extended Lifespan
Authors: Kaya Alaattin
Published: December 2021

To understand the genetic basis and the selective forces acting on longevity, it is useful to employ ecologically diverse individuals of the same species, widely different in lifespan. This way, we may capture the experiment of Nature that modifies the genotype arriving at different lifespans. Here, we analyzed 76 ecologically diverse wild yeast isolates and discovered wide diversity of lifespan. We sequenced the genomes of these organisms and analyzed how their replicative lifespan is shaped by nutrients and transcriptional and metabolite patterns. By identifying genes, proteins and metabolites that correlate with longevity across these isolates, we found that long-lived strains elevate intermediary metabolites, differentially regulate genes involved in NAD metabolism and adjust control of epigenetic landscape through conserved, rare histone modifier. Our data further offer insights into the evolution and mechanisms by which caloric restriction regulates lifespan by modulating the availability of nutrients without decreasing fitness.
Challenges of Implementing the PRISM 2.0 Clinical Trial With Assisted Living and Impaired Participants
Authors: Sharit Joseph , Czaja Sara , Moxley Jerad , Almirola Carlos
Published: December 2021

The PRISM 2.0 clinical trial examined the benefits of a software system, implemented on a computer tablet, which was designed to support access to information, engagement, and social connectivity among older people. Participants across three sites were recruited from rural locations, senior living housing facilities, and assisted living facilities (ALFs) and correspondingly randomized into either the Prism or control (tablet computer without the PRISM system) conditions. In this talk, we focus on the challenges associated with including ALF participants at key stages of the trial. These stages included telephone prescreening, baseline assessment, training on the system, and 6-, 9-, and 12-month follow-up assessments. Inability to meet inclusion criteria related to cognitive and sensory-motor considerations was a common problem, as was the ability to sustain attention during the training sessions. Recommendations for recruitment and retaining older adults in ALFs for these types of studies will be offered.
Haplogroups of Mitochondrial DNA Differentiate Patterns of Cognitive Change Over 7 Years
Authors: Watts Amber , Michaelis Elias , Swerdlow Russell
Published: December 2021

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) may play an important role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and cognitive decline. A particular haplogroup of mtDNA (haplogroup J), has been observed more commonly in patients with AD than in cognitively normal controls. We used mtDNA haplogroups to predict change in cognitive performance over seven years. We hypothesized that haplogroup J would predict poorer cognitive function and steeper cognitive decline. We analyzed data from 140 cognitively normal older adults (age 65+) who participated in the University of Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Center annual registry. We used factor analysis to create three composite scores (verbal memory, attention, executive function) from 11 individual cognitive tests. We performed latent growth curve modeling to describe trajectories of cognitive performance and change. We compared haplogroup H, the most common, to haplogroup J, the potential risk group. Results indicated haplogroup J carriers had significantly lower baseline performance (B=-.049, p< .01) and slower rates of improvement (B=-.046, p < .05) on tests of verbal memory compared to haplogroup H. For executive function, groups did not differ at baseline (B=.065, p>.10), but haplogroup J had slower rates of improvement (B=-.097, p < .01). There were no differences in attention across groups in performance (B=.135, p>.10) or change (B=-.01, p>.10). Our results reinforce the important role of mtDNA in changes to cognitive function with aging and imply that the effects of haplogroup J may vary across cognitive domains. Future research should investigate the mechanisms by which mtDNA might affect performance on specific cognitive domains across haplogroups.
Pilot Testing of the Promoting Positive Care Interactions (PPCI) in Assisted Living Study During a Pandemic
Authors: Paudel Anju , Galik Elizabeth , Resnick Barbara , Doran Kelly , Boltz Marie , Zhu Shijun
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of Promoting Positive Care Interactions (PPCI)—a four step intervention designed to establish positive care interactions between staff and residents with cognitive impairment or dementia in Assisted Living (AL). Initially designed as a traditional on-site intervention, PPCI was later transformed to be conducted remotely through webinar and virtual meetings due to challenges related to onsite engagement in AL during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the study adopted shorter timeline, a single group pretest-posttest design, and limited recruitment to staff only; 17 care staff were recruited, and data was collected via online surveys and interviews. PPCI was successfully implemented as intended with considerable stakeholder engagement. Findings demonstrated feasibility and promising staff adoption of PPCI. Continued research is needed to optimize the quality of care interactions in AL and evaluate whether online approach to staff training can change staff behavior.
Childhood Physical Abuse Casts a Very Long Shadow: Physical and Mental Illness Among Older Adults
Authors: Fuller-Thomson Esme , Buhrmann Anna S
Published: December 2021

A burgeoning literature indicates adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with chronic illness. Most research, to date, has not focused on health outcomes among older adults. The objectives of the current study were to identify the prevalence and adjusted odds of two mental health and six physical health conditions among survivors of childhood physical abuse (CPA) who were aged 60 and older (n=409) in comparison to their peers who had not been physically abused (n=4,659). Data were drawn from a representative sample of older British Columbians in the Canadian Community Health Survey. Logistic regression analyses took into account sex, race, age, immigration status, marital status, education, income, smoking, obesity, binge drinking and number of other ACEs. For 3 health outcomes, CPA survivors had adjusted odds ratio more than twice that of their peers (Anxiety OR=2.22; 95% CI=1.46, 3.38; Depression OR=2.17; 95% CI=1.57, 3.01; COPD OR=2.03; 95% CI=1.40, 2.94). For CPA survivors, the adjusted odds ratios were more than 50% higher for cancer (OR=1.71; 95% CI=1.31, 2.24), migraine (OR=1.67; 95% CI=1.15, 2.45) and debilitating chronic pain (OR=1.58; 95% CI=1.22, 2.03), and 33% higher for arthritis (OR=1.33; 95% CI=1.05, 1.69). CPA was not significantly associated with either heart disease or diabetes (p>.05). The association between CPA and two mental health and four physical health outcomes remained significant, even after controlling for sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviors and other ACEs. Further research is needed to investigate potential pathways through which childhood physical abuse is linked to a wide range of chronic later-life health problems.
Disruption to Transformation: Aging in the New Normal: NIA Session for Early-Career Researchers
Authors: Kelley Melinda , Kelley Melinda
Published: December 2021

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) at the National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, supports biomedical and behavioral research with a lifespan focus. NIA research seeks to understand the basic processes of aging, improve prevention and treatment of diseases in later life, improve the health of older persons, in addition to a focus on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The NIA also supports the training and career development of scientists focusing on aging research and the development of research resources. This symposium, meant for junior faculty and emerging scholars, will provide an update on the latest research findings from the NIA followed by a segment on funding mechanisms and strategies.
How to Get an NIA Grant
Authors: Santora Kenneth
Published: December 2021

Dr. Santora will provide an overview of the NIA application process and will share information on relevant policy changes.
A Web-Based Self-Management Intervention for Veterans With Chronic Conditions and Their Caregivers: A Pilot Study
Authors: Trivedi Ranak , Plummer Katherine , Suresh Madhuvanthi , Risbud Rashmi , Humber Marika , Zulman Donna , Timko Christine , Piette John
Published: December 2021

Web-based Self-management Using Collaborative Coping Enhancement in Diseases (Web-SUCCEED) is a dyadic intervention for patients and their caregivers designed to improve self-management through improving dyadic stress coping, dyadic relationships, and positive emotions. Veterans Affairs (VA) patients with one or more chronic conditions and positive screen for self-management distress were recruited with their informal caregiver from VA Palo Alto. Of the 17 patients and 16 caregivers recruited (62.3% of eligible), 8 patients and 8 caregivers (48.5%) completed the intervention and assessments. Twelve participants withdrew mostly citing the stress of the pandemic as their reason; 5 did not respond to multiple outreach efforts. Veterans were 66□18 y and caregivers were 58□16 y. Veterans and caregivers who completed the program rated it high on usability and acceptability. Pre-post t-tests across a psychosocial battery did not reveal significant differences; results were limited by incomplete post-intervention data. Further testing with modified retention strategies is recommended.
One Possible Consequence of COVID-19 Vaccine: Inequitable Distribution
Authors: Garrow George
Published: December 2021

Primary Health Network (PHN) is the largest Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Pennsylvania expanding over 17 counties. Getting Pennsylvanians vaccinated is a critical step in reducing the spread and impact of COVID-19, although research suggests that the inequitable distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine may be a critical barrier. Although concerns regarding vaccine hesitancy are prevalent, experts also suggest that disparities in vaccination rates are in part due to the lack of accessible scheduling; adversely affecting underserved, such as rural communities, and minority populations. To address these obstacles, Primary Health Network is creating a COVID-19 Vaccination/Health Equity Team. Their objectives include: creating tools to provide comprehensive information on vaccine supply, identifying potential challenges and proactively planning for ways to mitigate likely disparities, identifying people who wish to be vaccinated but lack the means to do so, and connecting them in an equitable way, to vaccinations.
The Experience of Family Members in Long-Term Care Facilities During the SARS COV2 (COVID-19) Pandemic
Authors: LeBlanc Raeann , Park Hyeyoung
Published: December 2021

In-person visits are one form of care support offered by family members for residents in a Long-term Care Facility (LTCF). Family member visitation may extend to close social relationships with the residential care staff, which can be important in managing care. The long-term care population has been significantly impacted by a high number of SARS-COV2 (Covid-19) cases in morbidity and mortality but, in-person visits were limited due the public health concern. This study aimed to describe the experience of family members of persons in LTCFs during the Covid-19 pandemic. We used an online survey of 34 questions. Forty-six family members were recruited through online caregiver support platforms, and 22 completed the survey. Average participant age was 57. Majority were female with high-moderate (M=3.48) Kessler psychological distress scores. Participants reported less frequent communication with their family members in LTCFs. Difficult to reach nursing staff, who were the primary contact, was a concern. Their preferred means of communication was the telephone followed by window visits; residents preference remained for in-person visits followed by telephone. Participants described a decrease in relationship closeness with staff and a decrease in confidence in the quality of care. These results, limited by sample size, offer a beginning insight into the importance of communication between the family member and nursing staff, including the contact frequency. Structural disparities such as LTCF nursing staff levels may partly explain these deficits in supporting families during the Covid-19 pandemic. Opportunities to support family members remain a needed focus of long-term care reforms.
Sleep and Health in Older Adults: New Research From Early-Career Investigators
Authors: Kaufmann Christopher , Berkley Amy
Published: December 2021

Sleep and circadian patterns change as people age and are linked to a number of health and psychosocial outcomes. As such, there is a need to continue generating new knowledge about sleep in older adults by encouraging early-career scientists to research this topic. In this symposium, sponsored by the Sleep, Circadian Rhythms and Aging Interest Group, we will showcase studies by early-career researchers at the masters through junior faculty level who conduct work in sleep and its impact on health outcomes in older adults. Our symposium will have five presentations. The first will examine how sleep and loneliness may mediate relationships between marital quality and depressive symptoms. The second study will assess links between personality characteristics and objectively measured chronotype. Our third presentation will determine the longitudinal association of sleep duration with body mass index. The fourth will evaluate how an intervention to reduce functional disability in low-income older adults impacts sleep quality. Finally, our fifth presentation will focus on understanding how sleep duration and changes in sleep patterns may impact speech-in-noise performance. Overall, our symposium will highlight multidisciplinary studies of sleep and health outcomes that are of importance to older populations and promote the work of the next generation of sleep, circadian rhythms, and aging scientists.
Comparative Perspectives on Geriatrics-Surgery Co-Management Program by Specialty and Staff Role
Authors: Pandit Sonia , Simone Mark , Michener Alyson , Walke Lisa , Nembhard Ingrid
Published: December 2021

Co-management programs between geriatrics and surgical specialties have gained popularity in the last few years. Little is known about how these programs are perceived across surgical specialties and staff roles. We conducted a mixed methods study to assess perspectives on a geriatrics-surgery co-management program (GSCP) at a hospital where geriatricians co-manage patients 65 or older admitted to Orthopedic Trauma, General Trauma, and Neurosurgery. We used semi-structured interviews (n=13) and online surveys (n=45) to explore program value, facilitators, use, understanding, and impact by specialty and staff roles (physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, case managers, social workers). Interview transcripts were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis, and survey data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis, ANOVA, and Fisher’s exact tests. Interviews revealed three themes: 1) GSCP is valued because of geriatricians’ expertise in older adults, relationship with patients and families, and skill in addressing social determinants of health; 2) GSCP facilitators include consistent availability of geriatricians, clear communication, and collaboration via shared data-driven goals; and 3) GSCP use varies by surgical specialty and role depending on expertise and patient complexity. Survey data analysis affirmed interview themes and showed significant differences (p-values<0.05) between perspectives of surgical specialties and roles on GSCP use, understanding, impact, and which specialty should manage specific clinical issues. Findings suggest that while there are similarities across surgical specialties and roles regarding the value of, and facilitators for, a GSCP, specialties and roles differ in use, understanding, and perceived program impact on care. These findings suggest strategies for optimizing this intervention across groups.
Referral Processes and Dispositions in a Multidisciplinary Team for Older Adults With Cognitive Vulnerability
Authors: Fortinsky Richard , Annis-Brayne Kristen , Smith Marie , Obuchon Kathleen , Robison Julie , Kuchel George , Ladda Shawn
Published: December 2021

Multidisciplinary team care for community-dwelling older adults with multiple chronic conditions has proven value. Older adults receiving team care experience better outcomes than by solo practitioners alone, and teams are being established as outgrowths of primary care and other clinical settings. Yet little is known about the inner workings of multidisciplinary teams, both in terms of how referral patterns among team members are established and the extent to which older adults and their families accept referrals from team leaders to other clinical disciplines within teams. In this presentation, we provide details about referral patterns and rates of acceptance by study participants in an ongoing clinical trial testing a multidisciplinary team designed to provide care management to older adults (age >65) with cognitive vulnerability due to dementia, depression, and/or delirium (3D Team). Nurse practitioners lead the 3D Team, conduct in-home clinical assessments and make referrals to other team members based on study protocols specifying participants’ eligibility for each 3D Team member. Results are based on the first 209 older adults randomized to the 3D Team. Pharmacist: all 209 members accepted having their medications reviewed and reconciled. Registered Dietician: of 134 referrals, 52 (38.8%) accepted. Occupational Therapist, of 117 referrals, 65 (55.6%) accepted. Physical Therapist: of 109 referrals, 92 (84.4%) accepted. Community Health Educator: of 106 referrals, 101 (95%) accepted. LCSW for depression-related problem solving therapy: of 76 referrals, 55 (72.4%) accepted. Criteria for referrals and interpretations of variations in referral acceptance rates by older adults and their families will be discussed.
Improving Quality and Access to Care in Long-Term Care Settings
Authors: Dudley Nancy , Dudley Nancy
Published: December 2021

Innovative delivery models that assure access to quality care in long-term care settings are needed for the diverse high-risk aging U.S. population. The 2008 National Academy of Medicine report, “Retooling for an Aging America: Building the Health Care Workforce” highlighted the need for changing the roles of health care providers in order to provide high-quality and cost-effective care to older Americans. Moreover, from the providers’ perspective, workplace violence in health care institutions, such as nursing homes, negatively affect the delivery, quality, and accessibility of health care. In this symposium, we identify needs and care provisions in the context of older adults aging in long-term care settings and discuss the implications for policy and health care transformation. This symposium comprises three distinct presentations: (1) identifying and addressing the needs of diverse older adults aging in low-income independent living facilities in community health practice; and based on pilot survey results from nurses in the State of New Hampshire, (2) reframing residents’ violence directed toward providers as self-protection and (3) proposing legislative and policy changes designed to meet the needs of staff and residents of long-term care facilities. These presentations represent efforts across long-term care settings to improve access and quality of care in the context of diverse older adults aging in the U.S.