bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation Research for Intergenerational Programs: Rigorous Methods, Best Practices, and Challenges
Authors: Leedahl Skye , Eisenstein Amy
Published: December 2020

Conducting evaluative research on intergenerational programs is key to understanding if they are functioning as intended. Research on program impact is also critical for prioritization and decision-making in an increasingly competitive market with many programming choices. Implementation studies can help researchers identify needed modifications for replication or introduction to new populations, which is particularly important as universities and communities work to become Age-Friendly. There is growing demand by educational entities (e.g., universities, high schools) and organizations that serve older adults (e.g., senior centers, adult day services, lifelong learning institutes, and residential programs) to identify rigorous methods that can be used to analyze outcomes for students and older adults who take part. This symposium focuses on evaluation methods for intergenerational programs and highlights diverse examples of how researchers have evaluated their programs. The presenters will discuss best practices and challenges to conducting research on these programs as well as the findings of the studies. The first paper will discuss the creation of an intergenerational contact measure. The second paper will describe how an intergenerational classroom was examined using data from instructors and students. The third paper will detail how a quasi-experimental design was used to examine outcomes for an intergenerational program on older adult participants. The fourth paper will discuss how data was gathered from various stakeholders to examine the impacts of an intergenerational classroom. Amy Eisenstein, Senior Program Officer at RRF Foundation for Aging will serve as the discussant. Intergenerational Learning, Research, and Community Engagement Interest Group Sponsored Symposium.
AGHE as an Incubator for Interdisciplinary Education
Authors: Teasdale Thomas , Howe Judith , Rogers Carol
Published: December 2020

For several decades, the history of interdisciplinary education and the development of AGHE initiatives have been closely linked. The need to educate colleagues on methods and benefits of interdisciplinary/ interprofessional cooperation toward service and research of aging has never waned. In this presentation we (a) highlight how AGHE has performed as a potent incubator for progress in this area and (b) use a few examples to illustrate how notable resulting efforts have improved geriatric care. For example, early and significant infusion of federal funds for gerontology training programs supported multi-disciplinary university-based centers, the Veterans Health Administration created interprofessional geriatric training programs, foundations such as John A. Hartford and Josiah Macy founded team training and interprofessional education programs, and the Health Resources and Services Administration funded Geriatric Education Centers and Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Programs. Efforts to advance interdisciplinary/interprofessional education have been fruitful and AGHE’s role as an incubator continues to evolve.
Older Adult Learners’ Contributions to Enhancing Age-Friendly Practices Within the Classroom
Authors: Manoogian Margaret
Published: December 2020

Interest in college courses that focus on aging attract a variety of students. For older adults, the decision to take college courses may be fueled by a desire to engage in life-long learning, finish degrees that have been long desired, or retool and change careers. Older adults 65 years and older living in Oregon may audit courses for free in four-year public universities. Older auditors and degree-seeking students often work closely with faculty in providing support on course projects and sharing developmental insights that stimulate discussions about aging pathways. This presentation outlines the ways in which older adults contribute to educational conversations, mentor younger learners, and enhance classroom/university environments. How older adult learners have provided support in workshops, aided students in career decision-making, connected students to community resources, and provided contacts for intergenerational community activities will also be highlighted.
With Exposure Comes Familiarity: Older Adults’ Contributions to the Age-Friendly Classroom
Authors: Ermer Ashley
Published: December 2020

Prior research has documented the benefits of intergenerational contact for both younger and older adults (e.g., Christian, Turner, Holt, Larkin, & Cotler, 2014). This presentation will focus on how older adults have contributed to students’ classroom experiences in an upper-level, undergraduate aging policy course. In this course, older adults have previously served as guest speakers, sharing their knowledge about the creation of nonprofit organizations, and their experiences aging within the family. Older adults have also participated in an activity addressing ageism with students from the aging policy course. Feedback from students has largely been positive, with over half of students during stating that they had a better understanding of older adults, that they learned from the experience, and that viewed the intergenerational contact as helpful. Ways in which this model can be extended to other academic disciplines will also be explored.
Leading Age-Friendly University Initiatives at a Research Intensive University in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Porter Michelle
Published: December 2020

When Dublin City University introduced the Age-Friendly University (AFU) principles in 2012, the Centre on Aging at the University of Manitoba had been fully immersed in age-friendly cities research, so it was a natural for it to champion the University becoming more age-friendly. As a university-wide research centre, at a research intensive university, the Centre on Aging has built on its strengths to advance the AFU movement. Related to its goals on research, knowledge mobilization, training, and partnerships, it has been able to work with its many Research Affiliates, students and community/university partners to tackle new AFU initiatives. Recent activities have included: an awareness raising workshop/showcase, discussions with Research Affiliates about potential new degree course offerings, an environmental scan of post-secondary inter-generational possibilities, a home-sharing project, workshop development on older learners in the classroom, and provincial community workshops and consultations on communicating about aging and healthy aging. Part of a symposium sponsored by Directors of Aging Centers Interest Group.
The Impacts of a Mentoring Program on the Development of Gerontological Social Work Faculty
Authors: Kusmaul Nancy , Wladkowski Stephanie , Gibson Allison , Mauldin Rebecca , Greenfield Jennifer , Fields Noelle
Published: December 2020

The John A. Hartford Foundation and the Association for Gerontology Education in Social Work (AGESW) have worked to develop gerontological social work faculty to address the needs of older adults. This presentation will discuss the role of AGESW’s Pre-Dissertation Fellows Program in the development of social work doctoral students. All participants from the PDFP’s 2010-2016 cohorts received a 38-question online survey via email exploring the program’s impacts on their academic career in teaching, research, mentoring, and support. Forty-five respondents, representing all six cohorts, completed the survey. More than half said the PDFP contributed to their ability to publish research (64.4%, n = 29), grow their professional network (86.7%, n = 39), and teach (55.5%, n = 25). Doctoral programs provided different experiences: mentoring, methodological training, professional development, and peer support. Results suggest the PDFP supplements students’ doctoral programs by connecting students to each other and to national leaders.
The Emergence of AGHE's Basic-Competencies Guidelines in Gerontology
Authors: Maiden Robert
Published: December 2020

This presentation will explore the development of AGHE’s major contemporary contribution: AGHE’s basic-competency guidelines and their role in program review and program enhancement. The presenter will describe in detail the steps in creating objective student learning outcomes and will explore how meeting these competencies improve instruction, self-reflection, program analysis and faculty discussion and ultimately gerontology programs. These guidelines and policies embody a living entity that is always evolving. Future iterations will be anticipated and discussed. Part of a symposium sponsored by the Geriatric Education Interest Group.
Using Technology to Connect the Generations and Understand Lifelong Learning
Authors: Donorfio Laura , Chapman Brian
Published: December 2020

The University of Connecticut (UConn) has a thriving Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), which has existed for over a decade on one of their regional campuses (700+ members). Intergenerational classes are utilized, but connecting UConn students with OLLI members outside of these classes in an effective, meaningful way is a challenge. A successful model developed within an adulthood and aging class to connect the generations outside of the classroom utilizes technology as a bridge. The two most successful activities will be highlighted. The first is a “technology clinic,” which requires students to pair up with OLLI members to assist them with technological needs. The second requires students to create a podcast by interviewing an OLLI member on the importance of lifelong learning, which is uploaded to the campus OLLI website. Implications for both generations, bi-directional affective change, and inclusivity of older learners in the classroom and beyond will be discussed.
An Intergenerational Service-Learning Model for Younger and Older Learners: Linking Community and Classroom
Authors: Shovali Tamar
Published: December 2020

The intergenerational reflective service-learning program titled Mentor Up is intentionally integrated within gerontology education. Mentor Up, a series of one-on-one technology training workshops, connects younger with older learners in the community while building on course content. Groups of students are paired with the Academy of Senior Professionals at Eckerd College (ASPEC) members, a continuing education organization whose 300+ members are committed to lifelong learning. Members are fully integrated into the course, serving as mentors for students. These class sessions support students in planning for Mentor Up service at a local CCRC and promote positive contact between students and retired community members. ASPEC members also participate with students in a significant reflective component concluding the course – in which students and older learners work together to write a script, record, and present a video essay addressing aging stereotypes. Considerations for planning, classroom integration, community connection, and project reflections will be discussed.
Healthcare Systems and Variation in Healthcare Utilization at the End of Life Across Countries
Authors: Ailshire Jennifer , Herrar Cristian , Osuna Margarita Maria
Published: December 2020

With rapid population ageing, providing better end-of-life care (EOLC) is becoming a source of social demand and financial pressure for public and private budgets in many countries. This paper uses data from harmonized end-of-life interviews in the HRS family of studies to assesses variation in health care utilization across different income groups and how they differ across different health care systems. Hospital stay did not vary across health care systems, but nursing home stays were lower in countries with either national or statist social health insurance systems. Hospice use was low in all countries, but particularly in national and social health insurance systems. Lower income was associated with greater use of nursing homes in both the private and social health care systems. Low income was also associated with greater use of hospice in national health service, but lower use in social health service.
Loneliness and Profiles of Objective and Subjective Memory During Midlife
Authors: Harrington Karra , Roque Nelson , Zhaoyang Ruixue , Mogle Jacqueline , Sliwinski Martin
Published: December 2020

Loneliness is a risk factor for dementia, however it’s relationship with cognitive health during midlife is unclear. We evaluated whether loneliness was associated with profiles of objective and subjective memory in younger and middle-aged adults. Participants (aged 25 to 64 years) underwent an initial loneliness assessment, followed by 14-days of momentary (5 per day) cognitive assessments (objective memory) and daily ratings of memory (subjective memory). Cluster analysis was conducted using person-level means of objective and subjective memory. Three clusters were identified: (1) highest objective and subjective memory (9%); (2) lowest subjective but not objective memory (84%); (3) lowest objective but not subjective memory (7%).There was a trend for higher levels of loneliness in Cluster 2 relative to Clusters 1 and 3. Results suggest that loneliness is more closely related with subjective than objective memory during midlife and are informative for development of interventions targeting cognitive health. Part of a symposium sponsored by the Measurement, Statistics, and Research Design Interest Group.
Louisiana Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program: Analysis of Learning Outcomes From Dementia Training
Authors: Kirsch Katherine , Lemieux Catherine , Ainsworth Laura , Choate Sarah , Borgmeyer Ashleigh , Slaton Cassie , Wilks Scott
Published: December 2020

A recent Alzheimer’s Association report noted that by year 2050, the number of Americans diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) will triple to over 15 million. The report referred to primary care as the front line for meeting this demand, yet the nation faces a severe shortage of ADRD trained, primary care professionals (PCPs). Louisiana Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program (LA-GWEP) addresses this demand. The purpose of this study was to examine preliminary data respective to LA-GWEP effectiveness with interdisciplinary education and training seminars, primarily aimed at medical, nursing, and social work PCPs. Three seminars were conducted in south Louisiana: Seminars 1 and 2 addressed effective communication, verbal and nonverbal, among persons with ADRD and caregivers; Seminar 3 offered basic overview of dementia symptomology, stages, and behaviors. Pre- and post-training session data were collected on-site. Participants completed questionnaires that included a 10-item knowledge assessment and 20-item Dementia Attitudes Scale (DAS). These measures contained Likert response formats; higher scores indicating greater levels of ADRD knowledge, in patient and caregiver contexts. Paired sample t-tests were conducted to observe any significant pre-to-post improvement, Cohen’s d for effect size. Seminar 1 revealed no significant pre-to-post difference: t = -1.019, p = 0.320. Adjusting content from audience feedback, Seminar 2 revealed significant pre-to-post difference: t = -7.516, p < .001, Cohen’s d = 1.2. Seminar 3 yielded significant improvement on DAS scores: t = -2.96, p < .01, Cohen’s d = 0.34. Implications for seminars in future years of LA-GWEP are discussed.
Caregiver-Centered Communication: Engaging Family Caregivers
Authors: Demiris George , Hirschman Karen
Published: December 2020

Older adults are often relying on a family member or other informal caregiver (friend or other) to jointly navigate the health care system and cope with the ramifications of serious illness; thus, the patient-caregiver dyad becomes the unit of care. The caregiving role becomes crucial in cases where patients are facing a condition that limits their cognitive and functional abilities and caregivers are called to act as proxy decision makers for significant treatment and symptom management decisions. Caregivers often report that they feel isolated and overwhelmed, and in some cases experience significant barriers in communicating with health care providers. It is important that clinicians communicate in a way that acknowledges and addresses caregivers’ preferences, needs and perspectives. Caregiver centered communication can facilitate a more effective adaptation throughout the illness course with better adherence to recommended treatment plans and greater satisfaction with care for both patients and families, as well as a more comprehensive response to their psychosocial needs. While health care organizations often aim to increase caregiver engagement and involvement in care processes, there is a lack of tools or strategies not only to more actively engage caregivers but also to assess how ongoing approaches perform in terms of facilitating meaningful and inclusive communication. This symposium will review existing tools and a new instrument to measure caregiver centered communication, challenges and opportunities in measuring the quality of communication with caregivers and highlight empirical data of communication quality in various health care settings including home care and hospice.
Impact of Be EPIC on Person-Centered Communication
Authors: Savundranayagam Marie , Williams Kristine , Basque Shalane , Orange Joseph , Kloseck Marita , Johnson Karen , Schmall Vicki
Published: December 2020

This study assessed the impact of Be EPIC, a dementia-focused, person-centered communication intervention for personal support workers (PSWs). Video-recorded conversations between PSWs and simulated persons with dementia assessed whether Be EPIC participants (n=13) (versus a wait-list control group, n=8) reported a greater proportion of person-centered communication utterances (recognition, negotiation, facilitation, validation). We used linear mixed model analysis to investigate if Be EPIC influenced PSWs’ person-centered communication. Group (Be EPIC versus control group), time (pre-, post-, and 3-months) and their interaction were included in the model. There was a significant group by time interaction. Follow-up tests showed that participants who took Be EPIC showed significant increases in person-centered utterances from pre- to post-training and pre-training to 3 months later. Participants in the control group showed no changes in person-centered communication. These findings show that Be EPIC enhanced person-centered communication, which is essential for quality of care.
Understanding Cognitive Complaints Among Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Small Brent , Jim Heather , Eisel Sarah , Scott Stacey
Published: December 2020

Cancer and its treatment can induce accelerated aging changes in physiological and behavioral processes. In studies of cancer associated cognitive decline, subjective reports of cognitive impairment are often many times greater than performance deficits on objective tests of neurocognitive functioning. In an Ecological Momentary Assessment study of 47 breast cancer patients (M age = 53.3 years), subjective ratings of cognitive performance and the occurrence of memory lapses assessed at the end of day were predicted by cognitive performance and ratings of fatigue and depressed mood throughout the day. Results indicated that poorer subjective cognition was significantly associated with elevated fatigue throughout the day. Slower processing speed, elevated ratings of fatigue, and depressed mood throughout the day were associated with a greater likelihood of memory lapses. Subjective ratings of cognitive deficits are related to objective performance, as well as common quality of life decrements among cancer survivors.
Online Assessment of Cognitive Functioning: A Reliable Alternative to Laboratory Testing?
Authors: Haas Maximilian , Zuber Sascha , Framorando David , Khawli Elissa El , Scheibe Susanne , Kliegel Matthias
Published: December 2020

As the population ages, risks for cognitive decline threaten independence and quality of life for older adults. Classically, psychological assessment tools to evaluate cognitive functioning are administered in face-to-face laboratory sessions, which is time- and resource-consuming. With the aim of reducing such costs, the present study set out to develop and validate two new online tools, allowing a rapid assessment of general cognitive abilities and of prospective memory. We collected data from 250 participants equally spread across the adult lifespan (aged 18 – 86). Results suggest that performance assessed via these newly developed online tools is comparable to performance in face-to-face laboratory settings. Our findings thereby indicate that these online tools can reliably measure cognitive functioning across the lifespan at a reduced cost, which may help detect individuals at risk of developing age-related cognitive disorders.
Neighborhood Disadvantage, Brain, and Neurocognitive Function: Relations Among Cognitively Normal Older Adults
Authors: Wright Regina , Bygrave Desiree , Waldstein Shari , Davatzikos Christos , Erus Guray
Published: December 2020

Neighborhood disadvantage has been linked to poor health; however, research has not adequately examined its influence, across multiple domains of disadvantage, on neurocognitive function and underlying brain health in older adults. Thus, the objective was to examine associations between neighborhood disadvantage, brain health, and neurocognitive performance, and examine age and sex as effect modifiers. The analysis included 136 older adults with a mean age of 68.04y who underwent neuropsychological and psychosocial testing and 3T cranial magnetic resonance imaging. Neighborhood disadvantage was characterized using the Area Deprivation Index (ADI). Multivariable regression analysis, adjusted for age, sex, education, and depression, showed that greater ADI score (greater disadvantage) was associated with poorer working memory performance (p<.05) and lower hippocampal volumes (p<.05), with no evidence of effect modification. Results suggest that greater neighborhood disadvantage may play a role in working memory and brain structure, which are vital to quality of life in older adulthood.
Actigraphic Measures of Sleep Quality Associated With Ambulatory Cognitive Performance in Older Adults
Authors: Buxton Orfeu , Zhaoyang Ruixue , Jiao June , Zimmerman Rachel , Sliwinski Martin , Derby Carol
Published: December 2020

Few longitudinal studies link objectively assessed sleep and cognitive performance in ecologically-valid environments. Participants enrolled in the community-based Einstein Aging Study cohort (n=224, M[age]=77.17). Wake after sleep onset (WASO) was associated with worse cognitive performance with and without MCI (2-week smartphone-based EMA, six assessments/day). Models include age, gender, ethnicity, education, learning effects, sleep duration, WASO*MCI interaction (p=0.015 for Symbol Match; p=0.002 for Color Shape). Associations were stronger among those with MCI, thirty minutes more nightly WASO predicted a 500ms longer Symbol Match response time (p<0.0001), 5.05% higher Color Dot error proportion (p=0.002), 0.184 points lower Color Shape accuracy (p<0.0001). In those without MCI, WASO was associated with worse cognition: thirty minutes more nightly WASO predicted +166.7ms Symbol Match response time (p=0.03) and -0.06 points Color Shape accuracy (p=0.013). Actigraphic sleep quality associated with ambulatory cognitive performance (and worse with MCI status) suggests targets for prevention/mitigation of cognitive decline. Part of a symposium sponsored by the Sleep, Circadian Rhythms and Aging Interest Group.
Statewide Implementation of the Music & Memory Program: Facilitators, Barriers, and Lessons Learned
Authors: Kwak Jung , Ha Jung-Hwa , Britt Katherine
Published: December 2020

The movement of evidence-based interventions into routine institutional settings like nursing homes is challenging. Among non-pharmacological interventions to address behavioral problems of residents with dementia, Music and Memory (M&M), a popular individualized music listening program, has been shown to have potential to improve quality of life among residents. To examine facilitators and barriers to implementation and sustainability of the M&M program in nursing facilities, a statewide (online and mail) survey of nursing homes was conducted in Wisconsin where the statewide implementation of the program occurred. The response rate was 41% (N=161). Descriptive statistics and content analysis were conducted. Over 80% of facilities provided the M&M program, and 86% of them planned to continue the program. The majority of respondents found the M&M to be beneficial to residents but also reported that the program was not equally effective for everyone, and M&M was time and labor intensive. Barriers to sustainability were: lack of buy-in by direct care staff, use of technology, costs of equipment, inconsistent volunteers, and families not supportive or helpful. Facilitators were: support of facility personnel, family, and volunteers; observing positive effects of program, M&M training provision and support, family involvement, and accessibility of equipment. Targeted resident selection is needed to identify the residents most likely to benefit from the program to avoid possibility of increased agitation or discomfort. Careful consideration is needed for facilities to identify realistic costs, labor, and staff buy-in to promote success.
Teaching Medical Students How to Ask Older Adults What Matters Using Simulated Patients
Authors: Mack Laurin , Cvengros Jamie , Emery-Tiburcio Erin
Published: December 2020

It is vital the workforce is prepared to meet the medical needs of our aging population. Asking older adults What Matters is an important aspect of excellence in clinical care. During a small group session in a two-year communication skills course, second year medical students (N=149) at Rush were taught how to ask What Matters as part of the 4Ms. Students then completed a video recorded Communication Skills Lab with a simulated older adult patient as they practiced how to discuss What Matters. Students then met with their instructors in individual feedback sessions to review the video and discuss strengths and areas for improvement in communicating with older adults. Students then completed a Clinical Skills Assessment for formal testing of their communication skills with older adults. Outcomes of the summative assessment will be presented and recommendations for integrating 4Ms into existing medical school and allied health curriculum will be discussed.
Equivalent Pathways? Comparison of Job History for High School Graduates Versus GED Recipients
Authors: Huang Wenxuan
Published: December 2020

Successful integration into the paid labor market serves as a critical milestone to adulthood. Yet, this school-to-work transition has become harder to reach due to the increasing precarity in the youth labor market. Using data from the NLSY97, this study compares the job histories of young adults whose terminal education credentials are high school diploma versus GED. I conducted sequence analysis of school-to-work states from age 16 to 30 between these two education groups. Findings show that GED holders are more likely to be exposed to enduring negative labor force status (e.g., periods of unemployment) than the high school graduates. Over half of the GED recipients experience precarious early career characterized by interruptions and long-term inactivity. Despite being “equivalent” to a high school diploma, the GED diploma does not translate into the same opportunity structure as the high school degree, launching a cumulative disadvantage process in the early life course.
Financial Resources and Biomarkers of Aging in the National Health and Aging Trends Study
Authors: Samuel Laura , Roberts Laken , Boyce Danielle , Hladek Melissa , LaFave Sarah , Szanton Sarah
Published: December 2020

Lower income and financial strain (i.e. difficulty making ends meet) are associated with worse aging biomarkers, but evidence among nationally representative samples is limited. This cross-sectional study tested whether income to poverty ratio (analyzed separately for those <500% vs. ≥500% poverty threshold) and financial strain are associated with biomarkers of aging among NHATS participants aged ≥65 years (n=4,648), adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, gender, smoking, BMI, and diabetes diagnosis for hemoglobin A1c. Sampling weights were applied. Among those with incomes <500% poverty, higher income was associated with lower hemoglobin A1c (b= -0.0196, p=0.007), CMV (b= -0.0689, p<0.001) and CRP (b= -0.0428, p=0.012). Among those with incomes ≥500%, higher income was associated with lower IL-6 (b= -0.0001, p=0.023) and lower CMV (b= -0.0001, p<0.001). Financial strain was not associated with biomarkers. Income is more strongly associated with biomarkers among the lower income group, calling for special attention to this vulnerable population.
The Impact of Social Support on Subjective Cognition Across Adulthood
Authors: Mueller Annalee , Minahan Jillian , Siedlecki Karen
Published: December 2020

Increased age is associated with declines in objective cognition (OC). A related but distinct construct is subjective cognition (SC), which is an individual’s self-appraisal of their OC. Research shows that SC impairment is an important precursor to declines in OC (Sánchez-Benavidez et al., 2018). Research has also demonstrated a positive relationship between OC and social support (SS) across adulthood (La Fleur & Salthouse, 2017), but there is limited research on the relationship between SC and SS. Participants (N = 1,873; age range 18-99) from the Virginia Cognitive Aging Project completed assessments of multiple domains of SC, OC, and SS. Results from the current study showed a consistent, significant association between negative interactions with others and poorer SC (Betas ranged from -.077 to .103, p < .05), beyond the influence of sociodemographic, well-being, and health factors. Our findings suggest that negative interactions may adversely impact one’s self-appraisal of cognitive functioning.
Geropsychology Workforce Development: Mentoring and Outreach by the American Board of Geropsychology
Authors: Mlinac Michelle , Smith Heather
Published: December 2020

To build workforce capacity and increase access to geropsychology services across the country, the American Board of Geropsychology (ABGERO) is engaged in efforts to promote competence in the specialty of Geropsychology. ABGERO developed a mentoring program to encourage psychologists to pursue board certification by demonstrating knowledge, skills, and abilities in delivering professional services to older adults. Mentors provide support around exam preparation, develop learning plans for psychologists new to the specialty, and help mentees consolidate their professional identities as geropsychologists. Candidates receiving mentorship include early career psychologists who completed geropsychology fellowships, mid-late career geropsychologists who seek board certification to be generative to the field, and psychologists looking to build expertise in geropsychology. For this latter group, clinical consultation groups were also created. Currently, 20 geropsychologists mentor 41 psychologists and 2 graduate students. Two geropsychologists have provided weekly consultation to 15 psychologists. Future implications for mentoring within geropsychology will be discussed.
Impact of Age Stereotypes on Older Adults’ Cognitive Performance: An Experimental View on Aging Consumers
Authors: Gröppel-Klein Andrea
Published: December 2020

The “contamination hypothesis” (Rothermund and Brandtstädter, 2003; Levy, 2003) assumes that negative external stereotypes significantly influence the cognitive and functional well-being of older people. Negative stereotypes also play an important role in consumer decision-making and responses to sales talks. Two surveys in home environments, using a snowball-system, with subjects randomly assigned to the different conditions in a 2x2-design (age stereotype x time pressure, study 1: n=151, Mage=65, study 2: n=122, Mage=68) show that older consumers, primed with negative age stereotypes, are less effective in correctly evaluating the value-for-money-ratios of different offers), especially when they perceive time pressure (=moderator). Self-efficacy is identified as a significant mediator, explaining the impact of stereotypes on performance. Contamination via “talking down” to older consumers also occurs in sales talks. In a “vignette” experiment, patronizing (vs. neutral) communication impairs the cognitive performance (measured via recall of information) of older consumers (n=86, Mage=69,) and leads to dissatisfaction.
Kinlessness at Death: Examining End-of-Life Outcomes With Danish Registry Data
Authors: Mair Christine , Ornstein Katherine , Aldridge Melissa , Thygesen Lau
Published: December 2020

Demographic changes that lead to “kinlessness” such as low fertility and low marriage rates are not a recent phenomenon for the countries of Northern Europe, such as Denmark. Characterized by small family sizes, high individualism, and a highly formalized healthcare system that is less dependent on family caregivers, Denmark presents a useful case study for the analysis of end-of-life outcomes among the “kinless.” We analyze the population of decedents aged 50 and older (N=175,755) using Danish civil registry data. Approximately 15% of those who died in Denmark had no living partner and no living child. Danish decedents’ family structures are associated with multiple end-of-life outcomes, including number of hospitalizations, ICU visits, and use of specific medical treatments—but not always in the direction hypothesized. Denmark’s highly formalized and individualized healthcare system may offer insight regarding healthcare reform in countries that have yet to complete the second demographic transition.
Social Networks and Dying at Home: Analysis of Outcomes From 13 Countries Using SHARE
Authors: Mudrazija Stipica , Ornstein Katherine
Published: December 2020

Social networks are critical for end-of-life decision-making and hands on support and may also impact end-of-life outcomes including location of death. Yet we fail to consider these factors in the context of cultural values and variation in healthcare system financing and resources, e.g., availability of palliative care. Using SHARE, we examined the following factors for 6,391 decedents across 13 countries interviewed in the last year of life: family size, living alone, and size and characteristics of social networks. We compared these characteristics cross-nationally for persons dying at home as opposed to in hospital and other formal settings. While individuals with larger social networks are more likely to die at home, we find a cross-national gradient of higher unmet healthcare needs resulting in overall more home-based deaths. Our findings suggest that individual factors such as family availability must be considered in the context of country-level factors when examining quality end-of-life indicators.
Marital Effects in Later Life: Dyadic Approaches and Gender Differences
Authors: Stokes Jeffrey , Carr Deborah
Published: December 2020

Marriage is a dyadic system, within which the characteristics and experiences of each partner can have implications for both. Moreover, gender of both spouses may impact these dyadic influences. The five papers comprising this symposium all take a dyadic approach to studying midlife and older couples, and how their effects on one another may vary by gender. Donnelly examines the consequences of precarious work among midlife couples, finding heightened risks for marital strain and divorce, depending on which gender spouse is exposed to precarious work. Garcia also analyzes gender differences – in this case, how the gender of a woman’s spouse may affect associations between daily marital strain and sleep quality, with only women married to men showing adverse sleep outcomes. Polenick and colleagues study the long-term repercussions of chronic condition discordance, finding that both individual-level and couple-level discordance had impacts for husbands’ and wives’ physical activity. Gallagher and Stokes focus on cognitive functioning within dyads, revealing gendered effects: Wives’ poorer cognitive functioning was associated with their own (better) marital quality, while husbands’ poorer cognitive functioning was associated with wives’ (worse) marital quality. Lastly, Stokes and Barooah examine longitudinal dyadic associations between loneliness and vascular health, finding that own and partner’s baseline loneliness were associated with increased HbA1c levels only in the context of inferior marital support. Carr will assess the strengths and limitations of these papers, and discuss the contributions these studies can make to the field and to future research on marital effects and gender in later life.
Maladaptive Use of Autobiographical Memory by Bereaved Individuals Across Adulthood
Authors: Wolf Tabea , Strack Veronika , Bluck Susan
Published: December 2020

Remembering one’s personal past can serve adaptive psychosocial functions (Bluck, Alea, & Demiray, 2010). Autobiographical remembering has been related to well-being in older age but little research has focused on grief. We address this issue in two studies grounded in the model of reminiscence and health in older adulthood (Cappeliez & O’Rourke, 2006). Participants (aged 18 - 91) completed the Reminiscence Functions Scale and the Inventory of Complicated Grief. Regression analyses show that negative self-related use of memories, but not positive use, is associated with experiencing more grief. Sharing memories with others (pro-social function) is indirectly linked to grief, as mediated by negative self-related uses. These patterns held for autobiographical recall in general (Study 1; N = 51) and when specifically remembering the deceased person (Study 2; N = 49). How adaptively individuals remember their personal past appears linked to the experience of grief, sometimes even years after the loss.
Remembering the Dying Days: Older Adults’ Final Memories From the Loss of a Spouse
Authors: Mroz Emily , Bluck Susan
Published: December 2020

Memories from the very end of the life of a deceased spouse (i.e., their dying days) are frequently carried with the bereaved as major markers in their own life stories. The current study identifies functions of these memories. Older adults (age 70-96; N = 53) told two memories from their spouse’s dying days, then self-rated them for serving directive, social-bonding and self-continuity functions (TALE; Bluck & Alea, 2011). Those who found their loss more incomprehensible (ISLES; Holland, 2015) reported using these memories for directive (i.e., guidance of behaviors) and self-continuity (i.e., maintenance of a sense of self) functions more frequently (ps < 0.05). This relation was, however, mediated by older adults’ current grief (ICG; Prigerson et al., 1995). Incomprehensibility of the loss of a spouse appears to lead to intense grieving, prompting individuals to draw on memories from the loss to maintain a sense of self and direct their future.
Co-Creating Culturally Nuanced Measures of Loneliness With Māori Elders
Authors: Waldegrave Charles , Cunningham Chris , Love Catherine , Nguyen Giang
Published: December 2020

The growing international evidence on the impacts of social isolation and loneliness has profound implications for positive health status and wellbeing (Holt-Lunstad et. al. 2015). This raises important questions about how we measure loneliness, particularly in extended family cultures where loneliness may be experienced differently from western more individualistic cultures. In this research, key questions around loneliness and social isolation were co-created with Māori Elders and responses were compared with a standard international loneliness scale (De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale) to help identify universal aspects of loneliness and Māori specific aspects. The results demonstrated significant correlations between the co-created questions and the international scale. However, they also demonstrated substantial expressions of loneliness among older Māori that are not captured by standard scales showing the need for Māori specific scales which are more inclusive of their cultural norms and can provide more precise data for constructive policy making and service provision.
We’re Lesbian Pioneers- We Can Manifest Good Death: EOL Experiences of Older LGB Women Who Have Lost a Spouse or Partner
Authors: Valenti Korijna , Janssen Leah
Published: December 2020

Preparing for end-of-life (EOL) and identifying support systems are ways older lesbian, gay, and bisexual women (LGB) women can assert agency over EOL. This paper presents qualitative data from a sample of older LGB women 60+ who have lost a spouse or partner. Thematic analysis revealed four main categories of concern: 1) advance care documents and wills; 2) interactions with healthcare professionals; 3) discussions about EOL; and 4) social network support. The work also analyzed participants’ discussions of how they have changed since losing a loved one and how they now view preparation for EOL. Findings reveal the need for better communication between healthcare professionals and LGB women, better understanding of care options (e.g. hospice, palliative care) and deeper EOL conversations among loved ones. This work critically engages queer gerontology, providing an important foundation of how to better understand how older LGB women perceive needs and preferences for their EOL.
On the Leading Edge of Longevity: Lessons From the MIT AgeLab 85+ Lifestyle Leaders
Authors: Miller Julie , D’Ambrosio Lisa
Published: December 2020

The 85+ population is the fastest-growing age segment in the United States. Understanding attitudinal and behavioral trends among adults ages 85 and over is of increasing importance to researchers and practitioners alike. This symposium will present findings drawing on mixed methods across multiple domains of research with the Lifestyle Leaders, a bimonthly panel study of adults ages 85 and older at the MIT AgeLab, which began in September 2015. Each presentation in this symposium will highlight a different focus of research conducted with the Lifestyle Leaders, ultimately offering insights about physical health, social engagement, and civic engagement at age 85 and beyond. The first presentation in this symposium will frame Lifestyle Leaders’ resources and how these resources affect their perceptions of risks, their worries, and their well-being. Diving deeper, the second presentation will center on how Lifestyle Leaders perceive and utilize different transportation options and how these options have changed for them over time. The third presentation will focus on civic engagement and Lifestyle Leaders’ perspectives on technology as enabling or inhibiting their civic engagement and participation. The fourth presentation will examine Lifestyle Leaders’ attitudes toward medication, medication management, and technology-enabled medication management devices. This symposium will deepen attendees’ understandings of the attitudes and experiences of active octogenarians and nonagenarians.
Internal and External Resources of the Lifestyle Leaders
Authors: Raue Martina , D’Ambrosio Lisa , Patskanick Taylor , Rudnik John , Felts Adam , Miller Julie
Published: December 2020

With older age, people experience declines in resources and face new challenges. The goal of this study was to understand how resource decline affects the oldest olds’ well-being, but also to learn who they trust and where they go for advice in areas such as health, finances, and technology. This sample of 30 participants between the ages of 85 and 95 was generally resource-rich, scoring highest on self-esteem and optimism and lowest on mastery. Self-esteem and optimism correlated with financial resources, indicating a significant role of finances in this rather wealthy sample. Well-being was predicted by self-esteem and physical health. Presumably, their high levels of self-esteem compensate for the loss of other resources among the oldest old. The majority of lifestyle leaders trust in other people, and while friends and family are very important sources of advice, searching online was equally often mentioned as a source when looking for advice.
Services That Matter for Aging in Place: Research on the Impact and Promise of Adult Day Centers
Authors: Sadarangani Tina , Dabelko-Schoeny Holly
Published: December 2020

Adult day service centers (ADCs) in the United States are increasingly recognized as an important source of community-based long-term care for older adults. However, awareness, widespread utilization, reimbursements, and access to ADCs have been limited by a lack of evidence on ADCs’ impact. In this interdisciplinary symposium, we explore current research taking place in the realm of adult day services to understand the reach and impact of ADCs. We begin by examining the most current center-level and user-level data from the National Center for Health Statistics, and demonstrate how these data can be used to inform research and policy. We subsequently evaluate survey data from the National Adult Day Services Association that captures clinical data being collected in ADCs (N=250) surrounding users’ clinical outcomes. We then explore the effectiveness of four interventions on ADC users’ health and functional status: board games, cognitive behavioral therapy, aromatherapy and dance. Finally, we examine the association between adult day services use by African American persons with dementia and depressive symptoms in their caregivers. Our findings suggest that ADCs serve a complex population with high rates of poverty and chronic conditions, but ADCs can have a meaningful impact on users’ health and well-being by leveraging innovative programming. We conclude by discussing how standardization of data collection efforts could enable researchers and policymakers to evaluate ADCs’ impact and target funding towards services that maximizes users’ health and well-being.
When and Why Does Subjective Age Boost Competence and Proactive Work Behavior?
Authors: Weiss David
Published: December 2020

Subjective age bias suggests that middle-aged and older adults feel relative younger, whereas adolescents and young adults often feel older than their chronological age. However, we still know very little about its social conditions and consequences across the life span particularly within the work domain. Across three studies (correlational, experimental, and field: Ns = 650, 16-85 years), we show that feeling older (among younger adults) and younger (among older adults) is triggered by undesirable age stereotypes concerning competence and status of young and later adulthood and desirable age stereotypes of midlife. We further demonstrate that feeling relatively older among young adults and younger among older adults increases individuals’ self-perceived competence at work and predicts proactive behavior such as speaking up. We discuss subjective age bias as socially-mediated phenomenon and how it affects behavior at work across the life span.