bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPARATIVE EFFECTIVENESS OF CANINE- OR EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPY FOR RESIDENTS WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Kemeny Martha E , Hutchins Deborah , Gramlich Courtney
Published: November 2019

Older adults with dementia may manifest symptoms such as apathy, withdrawal, and aggressive actions (NIA, 2019). Even surrounded by people in LTC, residents with dementia may lack social engagement. Non-pharmacologic approaches are promising (Brodaty & Arasaratnam, 2012) and are reflected in the newer CMS F-tag guidelines (CMS, 2017), but there remains a gap in research about the most effective approaches for LTC residents. Limited research exists on animal-assisted interventions (AAI) as a non-pharmacological approach to increase engagement in people with dementia (Friedman, Thomas & Chung, 2015; Huff-Mercer, 2015) and no known research compares equine- and canine-assisted therapy protocols. This study employed a within-subject alternating-treatments design for three single subjects. Completing the similar tasks of grooming, walking, and interaction, the independent variables are two conditions: 1) Condition A: Equine-assisted activity 2) Condition B: Canine-assisted activity. Using the Dementia Interview Rating (Strauss & Sperry, 2002), apathy was measured before and after each phase. During each session, three outcomes were measured: 1) Engagement in Preferred Activities Scale (Nelson et al., 2014) was used to measure the level of engagement in the interaction; 2) Heart rate variability, a measure of coherence, was measured using the Emwave pro (Heart Math Institute, 2018), and 3) targeted observed social responsiveness (initiation, verbal response, non-verbal response, motor response to one-step instructions) using a smart tablet application. Preliminary results suggest past experience/preference impact the individual client’s response to differing protocols. Effective non-pharmacological interventions for older adults with dementia are an essential alternative to current practice.
TARGETED TOOL TO MEASURE DEMENTIA LITERACY IN PREVENTION AND TREATMENT AMONG SEXUAL AND GENDER MINORITY OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Dowling Maritza , Hines Dana
Published: November 2019

Dementia prevalence among sexual minority adults age 60+ in the US is approximately 7.4%. This represents over 200,000 sexual minority older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Compared to the general aging population, LGBTQ older adults face unique challenges throughout their life-course that may increase exposure to risk factors associated with neurocognitive dysfunction and progression to dementia. Culturally-competent instruments to measure dementia literacy are needed to inform the design of targeted educational interventions for early diagnosis and improved health outcomes. We sought to develop and test a measure of dementia literacy in a community sample of LBGTQ older adults. Following a comprehensive analysis of existing scales, items were adapted resulting in a 35-item survey containing subjective and objective literacy measures. Participants were recruited through community centers in Washington, DC and Maryland. Forty LGBTQ older adults (50-80 years) completed the questionnaire. The analysis of these data was used to modify the original survey. A final 25-item questionnaire was administered to another sample of 50 individuals. 60% correctly identified dementia symptoms from vignettes. Nearly-half believed that dementia symptoms could be reduced by lifestyle changes and drug therapies. Commonly identified risks for dementia included aging, family history, genetics, stroke, and brain injuries. Frequently-endorsed methods for risk reduction included physical activity, intellectual/brain training and social activities. Education level, age, and socioeconomic variables were strongly associated with literacy. Most respondents did not associate cardiovascular/metabolic risk factors with dementia risk. Knowledge of risk factors underlying AD may help underserved populations close current health disparities gaps.
PERSONAL FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH DROPOUT RATE IN SHORT-TERM FALL PREVENTION PROGRAM FOR OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Li Qiwei , Knight Becky P
Published: November 2019

Fall prevention programs towards older adults are beneficial, however, drop-out rate among older adults in short-term fall prevention programs are relatively high (one out of three). With older adults dropping out, the programs benefit less for their target populations and achieve a lower level of cost-effectiveness as reported to funders. Literature review has revealed that previous studies on attrition frequently focus on longitudinal research, leaving the factors causing older adults to quit short-term (e.g., 8 weeks) fall prevention programs understudied. This study aimed to explore the association between demographic factors, educational level, health status, fall history, and the completion of the short-term fall prevention program named A Matter of Balance. A total of 691 older adults (526 females, 76.1%) 65 and older participated in the program were included and a Descriptive Discrimination Analysis (DDA) was conducted to analyze the multivariate relationship stated above. The results have identified that fall frequency, educational level, fear of falls, health status, perceived limitations due to fall, injury cases resulted from falls, and having arthritis are the most statistically significant factors that are associated with the completions among older adults for the short-term fall prevention program. The implications of this study include suggestions to modify future recruitment eligibilities in order to include the most suitable participants in certain programs, as well as adaptive modifications for short-term fall prevention programs that aim to serve larger aging populations with individualized conditions. Networking of evidence-based research outcomes should be shared for increased success of future programs.
PARTICIPATION IN TWO EVIDENCE-BASED FALLS PREVENTION PROGRAMS AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH AND WITHOUT A DISABILITY
Authors: Eagen Thomas J , McGough Ellen , Mroz Tracy , Kartin Deborah , Hajat Anjum , Molton Ivan
Published: November 2019

Older adults with a disability are at greater risk for falls and injury due to falling compared to those without a disability. Evidence-based falls prevention programs (EBFPPs) have been developed and disseminated broadly, however individuals with disabilities were excluded from original research on effectiveness. Using data from the National Falls Prevention Database from the National Council on Aging, we compared the reach and effectiveness of two EBFPPs, A Matter of Balance (MOB) or Stepping On, between those with and without a disability. Program reach was measured using attendance percentage. Program effectiveness was measured using change in fear of falling (FOF), fall-related activity restriction (FAR), and falls self-efficacy (FSE) post-program. A total of 12,667 participants were analyzed. Participants were, on average, 76 years old (M = 76.18, SD = 9.86), largely female (75%), well educated (80% some college or higher), and white (90%). Nearly half self-reported a disability (40%). Older adults with a disability were as likely to attend (M = 0.88, SD = 0.14) the program compared to those without a disability (M = 0.88, SD = 0.14, p =.30). Older adults with a disability reported greater FOF and FAR and lower FSE compared to participants without a disability at baseline. Significant improvements were made across effectiveness measures, irrespective of disability status. MOB and Stepping On are effective programs, well attended by older adults with and without disabilities, however older adults with a disability continued to report higher FOF and FAR, and lower FSE compared to those without a disability.
UNFULFILLED PROMISES OF WORKING IN LATER LIFE OF NEW ZEALAND WOMEN
Authors: Unson Christine G
Published: November 2019

This critical study on women and work-life extension compared motivations, needs satisfaction, barriers and resources faced by ethnically diverse women in high and low status occupations. Twenty-seven women (mean age = 64; age range 55 to 79 years) who at 55 years or older, had changed careers or places of employment, or who had retired and currently volunteer were interviewed. Four were Asian/Pacific Islanders, seven Māori and 16 European New Zealanders. Themes were compared between women in low and high status occupations. Instrumental motivations were most common among women in lower-status occupations and entrepreneurs whereas idealistic motivations were more prevalent with higher- status occupations and volunteer posts. Themes related to needs satisfaction show that work met basic and security needs among lower-status occupations but self-actualization needs were expressed more frequently in higher-status occupation. Feelings of belonging and a sense of achievement were cited by most participants. Themes relating to barriers faced by participants in lower-status occupations and by minority women include inadequate skills and access to information, and racial, ageist, and sexist discrimination. Themes also revealed multiple sources of supports: employers provided training and managerial support, and for some non-profits, a collaborative working atmosphere and co-workers who met older workers’ needs for belonging and sense of achievement, and who potentially, as a unit, could advocate for better working conditions for older workers. Work-life extension has the potential for creating classes of older female workers with differential access to work opportunities and level of aspirations achievable.
AGE AND OCCUPATIONAL TIME PERSPECTIVE ARE ASSOCIATED WITH PREFERENCE FOR HELPING OTHERS AT WORK
Authors: Shavit Yochai Z , Carstensen Laura L
Published: November 2019

Workforces today are more age-diverse than ever before. Despite widespread beliefs that older workers are less productive than younger workers, when productivity is measured at the team level, the presence of older workers appears to positively contribute to productivity. Underlying reasons for this finding have been poorly understood. Socioemotional selectivity theory (SST) posits that goals change with age and that when time-horizons grow increasingly limited people prefer activities that hold meaning in their pursuit, such as helping others. Reasoning from SST, we hypothesized that age is associated with a preference for helping colleagues. We further hypothesized that expanding time-horizons would reduce age differences such that both younger and older people would prefer projects that help colleagues. 555 workers, aged 20-75, were assigned to one of three experimental conditions where time-horizons were expanded, constrained or not mentioned (control), and were asked to indicate their preferences for projects that benefitted themselves or others. Results from multinomial logistic regression show that collapsing across conditions, age was positively associated with a preference for projects helping friends or colleagues over ones that were career advancing, and participants were more likely to work on a helping project over one that would take the company in a new direction regardless of age. We further found effects of manipulating time horizons- in both the expanded and limited occupational time-horizons conditions workers were less likely to prefer helping compared to advancing their careers, and the positive association between age and preference for helping was attenuated.
ASSOCIATION OF AGE DISCRIMINATION, JOB STRESS, AND DEPRESSION AMONG OLDER WORKERS: ROLE OF SOCIAL NETWORKS
Authors: Visaria Abhijit , Chan Angelique , Cheng Grand , Malhotra Rahul , Ostbye Truls
Published: November 2019

In this study, we examine the association between perceived age discrimination at the workplace and job stress, with depressive symptoms among currently working late-middle-aged adults. In particular, we investigate whether the association between these work-related factors and depression varies by the strength of their social networks. We use data from the Panel on Ageing and Transitions in Health Survey (PATHS) a national study of 1654 Singaporean citizens and permanent residents aged 50 to 59 years, conducted in 2016-2017. We account for age and other sociodemographic characteristics, measures of economic status, occupation, early retirement intentions, personality traits, as well as multiple physical health measures. Our findings indicate that age discrimination at work and job stress are both positively associated with higher depressive symptom scores. The relationship between age discrimination and depressive symptoms however varies by social networks, with age discrimination negatively associated with depressive symptom scores among those with larger friends-based social networks. Our findings indicate that while psychological wellbeing of late middle-aged workers is adversely affected by age discrimination and job stress, these workers benefit from wider and deeper social connections with friends. Our results provide empirical support to previous research that suggests that friends-based social networks yield distinct benefits in terms of subjective well-being and increased self-worth.
THE IMPACT OF RETIREMENT ON VOLUNTEERING FREQUENCY: EVIDENCE FROM A NEW PANEL STUDY
Authors: Grunwald Olga , Damman Marleen , Henkens Kène
Published: November 2019

OBJECTIVE: Retirement is a major life transition. People gain a considerable amount of free time, but also loose the benefits from work. Volunteering has been identified as a gratifying way to fill that time and to compensate some retirement-related losses, but is stratified by educational level. Research on how retirement changes volunteering behavior, particularly among different educational groups, is scarce. This study aims to fill this gap. Based on role theory, we hypothesize that the transition into retirement expands levels of volunteering, and that this effect will be relatively strong for the higher educated. METHODS: We use two-wave panel data that were collected in 2015 and 2018 among 5,312 Dutch individuals who were aged 60-65 and employed at baseline. Around half has retired at follow-up (N=2,618). RESULTS: Descriptive findings show that the share of frequent volunteers (i.e., at least once a week) was around 18% at baseline. At follow-up, the share of frequent volunteers rose to 36% among those who retired, but did not change among those who remained employed. Conditional change models show that transitioning into retirement significantly increases volunteering frequency, when controlling for demographic factors and individual resources. As hypothesized, the effect of retirement is relatively strong for the higher educated. DISCUSSION: To deal with the life changes upon retirement, volunteering appears to be an often-used strategy, in particular among the higher educated. Whether this is motivated by work role loss (compensation), or reflects having more time to ‘do good’ (opportunity) is an important question for future research.
EMPLOYMENT AFTER NORMAL RETIREMENT AGE: EMPLOYERS’ MOTIVES AND EXPERIENCES
Authors: Mulders Jaap Oude
Published: November 2019

Due to population aging, older workers in developed countries are working much longer than previous cohorts. Some older workers even extend their careers beyond normal retirement age – or the age that is traditionally associated with retirement. While earlier work has studied employees’ motives and experiences while working after normal retirement age, motives and experiences of employers remain unexplored. Understanding employers’ perspectives is imperative for a better grasp of employees’ opportunity structures and labor market dynamics. This is especially relevant in countries with mandatory retirement systems, since here employer and employee need to negotiate a new contract after normal retirement age. I study employers’ motives to and experiences with employing older workers after normal retirement age using data from a 2017 survey among 1,312 Dutch employers. The Netherlands has mandatory retirement regulations but is also seeing an increase in employment rates after normal retirement age. Results show that 54% of employers have, in recent years, employed one or more older workers beyond their normal retirement age. This is especially common in education. 70% of employers are very positive about their previous experiences with employing older workers after normal retirement age, mostly because they had rehired older workers with unique knowledge and experience. However, employers also hardly ever took the initiative for such employment arrangements, instead leaving it to the older workers to show the desire to continue working. Although employers are largely positive, they see it as a limited phenomenon, and do not consider it a solution to labor shortages.
CULTURAL DIMENSION OF THE DISCREPANCY OF PLANNED AND ACTUAL RETIREMENT AGE IN THE U.S.: HISPANICS VERSUS NON-HISPANICS
Authors: Diaz-Valdes Iriarte Antonia E
Published: November 2019

The sustainability problems to the SS has led to a glowing debate about what the full retirement age should be and if working longer is a plausible option for everyone or just for those who have some control over their retirement decisions (e.g., Munnell & Sass, 2008; McNamara & Williamson, 2013; Munnell et al, 2016). All ethno-racial groups have increased their average retirement age over the last years. However, Hispanics’ retirement age is still lower even if they stated they plan to continue to work at retirement (EBRI 2008; Diaz-Valdes, 2018). Most studies about retirement timing have focused on middle-class Whites, and the prediction of planned or actual retirement separately. One of the lesser studied complexities of the retirement conundrum concerns ethno-racial differences and cultural-related predictors of retirement timing (Lytle et al, 2015). This study seeks to extend the understanding of differences between Hispanics and non-Hispanics regarding the timing of retirement relative to when they thought they would retire by including a broad array of cultural and family related predictors. Multinomial regression models were used. The results indicate significant differences between Hispanics and non-Hispanic Whites. Taking care of grandchildren was a significant predictor among Hispanics but not among non-Hispanic Whites. For Hispanics taking care of grandchildren, for over 20 hrs., was associated with a decreased probability of stating they will never retire. The increase of one dependent was associated with an increased on the probability of retiring earlier than planned. The effect of one additional dependent was larger for non-Hispanics.
AFFECT MODERATES THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN SOCIAL SUPPORT AND RETIREMENT SATISFACTION OVER TIME
Authors: Odd Kaleena
Published: November 2019

Retirement is becoming more important for today’s older adults because they are living longer than before. Recently, research has started to explore how different individual resources (e.g., health or finances) and social resources (e.g., social support or social network size) influence retirement outcomes such as retirement satisfaction. Moreover, the current study sought to examine the influence of time, satisfaction with social support, and affect (i.e., positive or negative) as predictors of retirement satisfaction. Data was obtained from a longitudinal study that explored how older adults in Montreal, Canada adjusted to life in retirement over the course of three years. Hypotheses were tested using a structural equation model that investigated retirement satisfaction as predicted by time, satisfaction with social support, positive affect, and negative affect. Gender differences were also explored. Overall, there was no change over time among the variables. Satisfaction with social support, positive affect, and negative affect were all associated with retirement satisfaction in the expected directions. Positive affect moderated the association between satisfaction with social support and retirement satisfaction, such that the association was stronger for those low in positive affect. Also, negative affect moderated the association between satisfaction with social support and retirement satisfaction as a function of gender. This study extended the literature by exploring how multiple predictors interacted to influence retirement satisfaction over time. Future research should examine how individual and social resources can interact with each other to better understand retirement satisfaction.
PALLIATIVE CARE NEEDS ASSESSMENT OF A RURAL AND FRONTIER STATE
Authors: Carrico Catherine , Slosser Andrea , Barry Robin A , McKibbin Christine
Published: November 2019

Background: Palliative Care (PC) is a valuable tool for improving the lives of people living with chronic illness. However, access to PC is limited in rural areas. The purpose of this study is to describe the current PC needs and barriers to care in a rural state. Methods: An online survey was disseminated through professional organizations, licensing boards, and the University of Wyoming. Rurality of counties was classified using Rural Urban Continuum Codes (RUCC). Descriptive statistics were calculated using SPSS. Results: Responses were received from 336 individuals across 20 of 23 counties (i.e., RUCC range 3 - 9; 1=most metropolitan, 9=most rural). The majority worked in healthcare or social service sectors (n = 265, 78.8%). Approximately one-half (n = 119, 50.6%) of these individuals endorsed providing PC (i.e., typically symptom management, supportive resources, and family support). Over one-half of respondents (n = 173, 51.5%) rated availability of PC services in their communities as “poor” or “somewhat good.” Key barriers to providing PC were lack of patient information and knowledge (n = 215), access to PC specialists (n = 183), and funding and reimbursement (n = 181). Approximately one third of healthcare professionals (n = 78, 32.8%) had received formal training in PC. A majority of healthcare and social service respondents (n = 139, 59.1%) endorsed interest in PC continuing education. Conclusions: This study provides insight into the state of PC across a rural state. Results highlight the need to design accessible education and implement system transformation to improve PC access.
EXPLORING THE HEALTH BURDEN AND SOCIOECONOMIC COSTS OF DEPENDENT ELDERLY CARE IN NSUKKA, NIGERIA
Authors: Ezeah Peter C
Published: November 2019

It is projected that by 2030, 6 percent of Nigeria’s present population of 180 million will be 60 years and above. However, the extent to which the traditional systems of family support and security can manage the care of the increasing number of older people in the country is not clear as limited studies are available in the country regarding the health burden and Socioeconomic costs of caring for dependent older people. This study is therefore aimed at assessing the health burden and costs of caring for dependent older people in Nsukka, Nigeria. This cross sectional survey involved 1030 randomly selected elderly persons in Nsukka, Nigeria (Mage=70.15, SD=12.23). Structured questionnaire and Focus Group Discussion Guide (FGD) provided the data for the study. The qualitative data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, while regression analysis formed the basis for predicting effects of the variables in the study. The qualitative data from the FGD were analyzed thematically. The findings show that the Nigeria government was largely uninvolved in the care and support for older dependent people; leaving families to negotiate a ‘journey without maps’. Families carried the health burden of care for the elderly with attendant socioeconomic costs. The traditional role of female relatives as caregivers was beginning to give way to paid caregivers. An innovative policy frame work targeted at the needs of older persons in health care, social protection and other forms of intergenerational support is required to supplement inputs from families of the aged in Nigeria.
WORK-RELATED OPPORTUNITY COSTS OF PROVIDING UNPAID FAMILY CARE
Authors: Mudrazija Stipica
Published: November 2019

Older Americans living in the community who need help with basic activities of daily living overwhelmingly rely on unpaid care provided most commonly by working-age family members. Because unpaid family care limits the demand for nursing facilities and reduces expenses paid by Medicaid and other government programs, previous estimates of its economic value have mostly focused on estimating the benefits of unpaid family care. However, to assess accurately the overall economic value of unpaid family care and define better the scope for policy intervention, it is also important to account for the costs of such care, yet our knowledge of their magnitude remains limited. This study assesses the impact of unpaid family caregiving on the likelihood of working and hours worked for caregivers, and calculates the related cost of forgone earnings today and in 2050. To do so, it matches family caregivers from the National Study of Caregiving with non-caregivers from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, and uses projections from the Urban Institute’s DYNASIM microsimulation model to inform calculations of future costs of foregone earnings. Results suggest that the cost of foregone earnings attributable to caregiving is currently about $67 billion. By mid-century, it will likely more than double, outpacing the growth of disabled older population as the share of better-educated caregivers with higher earning capacity increases. Policymakers can use these results to inform their current and future policy efforts aimed at assisting family caregivers who are facing the challenge of balancing work and caregiving responsibilities.
PLACE MATTERS: HOW LOCATION AT DEATH INFLUENCES CAREGIVER WELL-BEING IN BEREAVEMENT
Authors: Waldrop Deborah P , McGinley Jacqueline M
Published: November 2019

Most older adults express the preference to die at home, but the desire for home death may go unfulfilled when the dying process become burdensome. Little is known about the congruence between older adults’ and their caregivers’ desired locations at death. The purpose of this study was to explore how the congruence between caregiver-care recipients desired and actual location at death influenced well-being in bereavement. This exploratory study utilized simultaneous qualitative and quantitative methods. Interviews were conducted with 108 bereaved caregivers about 4 months after the care recipient died while receiving hospice care. Care recipients’ ages ranged from 43-101 (M=79.6); caregivers from 32-88 (M=61.5). Quantitative data included categorical variables about demographics, advance care planning and location at death. The Core Bereavement Items and CDC HRQOL–14 "Healthy Days Measure" scales were used. Qualitative data involved open-ended questions about the illness trajectory, desired location and perceptions of care at life’s end. Quantitative analysis included comparison of group differences using both Independent Samples t-tests and One-way ANOVA. Of the 92 care recipients who had an advance directive, N=49 (45%) were in the location they desired and for N=49 (45%) there was caregiver/care recipient congruence about location. Caregivers who experienced incongruence reported poorer physical and emotional well-being and higher, more intense bereavement symptoms. Three overarching themes illuminated caregivers’ experiences: (1) Caregiver-recipient congruence; (2) Caregiver-recipient incongruence; (3) Incongruence-influenced bereavement. Results suggest that incongruence between desired and actual location of death affects well-being in bereavement. Implications: Communication about location at death is an essential consideration.
HOUSE CALLS AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH INTEGRATION: ADDRESSING MENTAL HEALTH LITERACY AND DEPRESSION CARE
Authors: Perweiler Elyse , Bodenheimer Lisa , Belfer Gail , DeGennaro Jennifer , Chopra Anita , Meyers Marla
Published: November 2019

The House Calls and Behavioral Health Integration project was an inter-agency collaboration to address depression in the older adult population by increasing knowledge and awareness of the condition and providing better access to care. Rowan Medicine, New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging (NJISA) and Jewish Family and Children Services (JFCS) partnered to deliver a comprehensive education, screening and referral program for residents of 3 senior housing facilities serving an estimated 300 elderly and disadvantaged residents. The goal of this year long project was to provide depression education for both housing residents and staff; offer on-going access to free depression screens (using PHQ-9) for residents; and refer residents to an appropriate resource (counseling/case management/house calls) depending on depression screen outcome. Depression education was provided to 15 housing staff and 78 older adult residents. A total of 34 depression screens were completed (82% female, average age=82 years); further evaluation of symptoms was indicated for 59% (n=20) of those screened. Seventeen of the 20 residents accepted a recommendation for a referral to supportive counseling; 3 declined. The average PHQ-9 score was 8.45 (SD=4.42; Range 1-24). Referrals to case management and house calls (n=4) were also made. Feedback from both housing residents and staff was positive and the project team learned valuable lessons about serving older adults in congregate living settings which has informed other programming. The project was successful in providing education, screening and referrals to residents who might not otherwise have access to specialized geriatric behavioral health interventions.
BARRIERS TO CARE FOR OLDER ADULTS IN MEDICATION-ASSISTED TREATMENT FOR OPIOID USE DISORDER
Authors: Bender Alexis A , Robert Maggi N , Quan Nathan S , Klein Emma M , Perkins Molly M
Published: November 2019

Over the last decade, the number of older adults (people over the age of 50) who misuse opioids doubled and continues to increase. People over the age of 50 also represent one of the fastest growing groups entering into and sustaining medication assisted treatment (MAT) (i.e., methadone and buprenorphine) for opioid use disorder (OUD). Despite increasing awareness of this growing at-risk population, significant knowledge gaps regarding their support and care needs persist. To begin to address these gaps, we conducted interviews with 20 treatment staff, focus groups with 18 patients and surveys with 100 patients over the age of 50 at eight diverse Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) participating in a 1-year pilot study (Bender, PI) funded by the Georgia Clinical and Translation Science Alliance supported by the National Center Advancing Translational Sciences. Patients in this study do not always disclose their use of MAT to non-OTP providers. When they do, participants reported numerous negative experiences with non-OTP providers, including perceived discrimination, stigma, and misunderstanding by providers about MAT. These negative experiences potentially contribute to an over reliance on OTP providers to manage age-related health conditions (e.g., COPD, hypertension). Providers report minimal training about aging and varied levels of confidence to manage these conditions. We present the experiences of patients and providers with suggestions for improving care coordination. We conclude with recommendations to improve communication among providers working with older adults in recovery from OUD.
GENDER DIFFERENCES IN HEALTH-RELATED BEHAVIORS OF RETIRED PEOPLE IN TAIWAN
Authors: Huang Nuan-Ching , Hu Susan C , Wang Ying-Wei
Published: November 2019

Many studies have indicated that lifestyles and health behaviors are important factors associated with elderly health. However, few studies have focused on such issues in Taiwan. The purposes of this study were to examine the gender differences in health-related behaviors of retired people in Taiwan. We used face-to-face interviews to collect 20 health-related behaviors among retired people aged 50-74 in Taiwan. A total of 3131 retired sample was collected including 1754 male (56.0%) and 1377 female (44.0%). The health behaviors were designed as binary variables. If the retirees executed exactly on the behavior within a month, they got 5 scores, otherwise, they got 0 scores. Then, we used factor analysis with Varimax Rotation to detect factors associated with the 20 health behaviors. Results showed that six factors were related to these 20 behaviors after conducting factor analysis. These six factors were named as 1) No tobacco, alcohol and betel nut, 2) Periodic health examination, 3) Correct medication, 4) Good habits, 5) Normal sleep and no pressure, (6) No high-fat and pickled foods. Gender differences were found in three factors: 1, 5 and 6. More female practiced every behavior in factor 1 and factor 6 than male (68.7%, 55.5% vs. 43.6%, 50.3%, p<.001, respectively). However, the male had better behaviors in factor 5 than female (54.0% vs. 47.3%, p<.001). We hope these findings could help design different health promotion programs for retirees of different genders.
HEALTH PROMOTION A NEW APPROACH TO DEVELOP GERONTOLOGICAL NURSING CARE QUALITY INDICATORS
Authors: Kitamura Satomi , Igarashi Ayumi , Inagaki Asa , Takaoka Manami , Noguchi-Watanabe Maiko , Sakka Mariko , Naruse Takashi , Yamamoto-Mitani Noriko
Published: November 2019

While the inter-RAI, a comprehensive geriatric assessment tool, contains standardized system for assessing quality of care, there are limitations for its everyday use. Limitations include large number of items, lack of apparent process indicators, and limited symptoms and disease-related information. A new approach was introduced to develop gerontological nursing quality indicators that were targeted at long-term care. We plan to develop staff-friendly indicators, which can be extracted from regular routine client records. A group of nurse researchers discussed essential domains of elderly persons’ life quality, based on nursing theory literature, that nurses strive to maintain. Several outcome indicators were derived out of the domains, and process quality indicators were developed based on literature review. We identified nine domains based on Gordon’s functional health patterns: 1) minimizing symptoms and disease deterioration, 2) maintaining nutritional status, 3) controlling bowel movements, 4) encouraging physical activities, 5) promoting sound sleep, 6) minimizing dementia symptoms, 7) maintaining dignity, and 8) reducing family stress. We then developed 17 outcome indicators; each domain included one to four outcome indicators (e.g., maintaining nutritional status has three indicators: no aspiration, no weight loss by 3% or more, and no dehydration). Process indicators that covered regular assessment (e.g., swallowing evaluation), preventive interventions (e.g., adjusting body positions during a meal), and interventions for the problems (e.g., food texture modification) were determined. These indicators may be useful to assess gerontological nursing quality. We are planning to conduct expert panel and individual client surveys to assess its usability.
THE BURDEN OF ENGAGING IN VOLUNTEER ATTENUATE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT AND HEALTH OUTCOMES
Authors: Nemoto Yuta , Sakurai Ryota , Hasebe Masami , Nonaka Kumiko , Mtsunaga Hiroko , Fujiwara Yoshinori
Published: November 2019

This study examined the interaction of participating in volunteer activity and its burden on health outcomes. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 2018. Of 8426 older adults aged 65 and over, 5232 individuals were included in the analyses (response rate: 62.1%). Health outcomes included self-rated health (SRH), mental health (The World Health Organization Five Well-Being Index: WHO-5), and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence: TMIG-IC) as dependent variables. Independent variables included engagement in volunteer activity and its burden. These variables were combined and classified into three groups: non-participants; participants with burden; and participants without burden. Covariates included age, gender, educational attainments, economic status, and living arrangement. Logistic regression analysis and analysis of covariates were conducted to examine the interaction of volunteer activity and its burden on health outcomes. Of 5232 older adults, 76.3% of subjects were non-participants, 3.4% were participants with burden, and 20.3% were participants without burden. Multivariate analysis showed that non-participants were more likely to have poor health outcomes compared with participants with burden. Moreover, participants without burden were more likely to have better health outcomes (SRH: Odds Ratio [OR] = 1.92, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 1.70 to 2.17, WHO-5: OR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.51 to 1.88, TMIG-IC: Coefficient = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.10 to 0.62). Our findings suggest that volunteer activity is related to better health regardless of their burden. However, burden of volunteer engagement might attenuate the relationships between volunteer activity and health outcomes.
LIFE SATISFACTION AND SELF-PERCEPTION OF AGING IN CONTRIBUTING TO SUCCESSFUL AGING IN A CHINESE CONTEXT
Authors: Chan Sunny H W , Pan Yao , Xu Yuebin , Yeung Ka Ching
Published: November 2019

Research indicated that life satisfaction and a positive self-perception of aging are vital during the aging process which contribute significantly to successful aging. Discovering the underlying determinants should provide a novel insight into the mechanism involved in achieving successful aging. A representative random sample of 2161 Chinese older people aged 60 years or above was surveyed by face-to-face interview. Sociodemographic factors were measured by age and educational level. Physical functioning was identified in terms of self-perceived health, basic and instrumental activities of daily living, and number of chronic illnesses. Social functioning was characterized in terms of number of people living together, social support network, and sense of loneliness. Hierarchical multiple linear regressions were performed to identify significant determinants of life satisfaction and self-perception of aging. Results showed that people in older age with lower educational level had a higher level of life satisfaction; whereas people in younger age with higher educational level had a more positive self-perception of aging. Moreover, social functioning took precedence over physical functioning in contributing to life satisfaction. In contrast, physical functioning outweighed social functioning in promoting a positive self-perception of aging. A sense of companionship and a supportive social network are imperative in enhancing life satisfaction, whereas perceived physical health and functional independence are essential in facilitating a positive self-perception of aging. This study provides empirical support to improve understanding of the primary mechanism of achieving successful aging. It also lays important groundwork for future tailored-made interventions for promoting successful aging in a Chinese context.
INDIRECT EFFECT OF PARTICIPATION ON THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN FUNCTIONAL VISION AND SELF-RATED HEALTH OF OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Steinman Bernard A , Mittlieder Casandra
Published: November 2019

Older adults with visual impairments experience barriers to participation that could impact their own health and wellbeing. Participation limitations that are associated with poor vision and unsupportive environments have been associated with objective health outcomes, including chronic disease and secondary outcomes such as fall injuries. In this study, we assessed the association between functional vision impairment and self-rated health (SRH). We also tested the mediating role of participation in that relationship. We conducted analysis with covariates representing six domains included in the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF). We computed ordinal logistic regression models using two waves (2011 and 2016) of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS). Vision status was assessed via self-reported measures of visual functioning (e.g., ability to recognize someone across the street). “Participation” was operationalized using 6 items that assessed participation in social and community-based activities (e.g., visiting friends, participating in classes). SRH (measured in 2016) was assessed using a single item asking participants to rate their health on a scale ranging from excellent to poor. We assessed key relationships while holding ICF’s other health dimensions constant. Functional vision status was statistically associated with SRH in models containing all covariates. Participation variables reduced but did not eliminate the effects of vision, suggesting a partial mediating effect—that is, part of the association between vision and SRH was explained by participation factors. These results point to the importance of developing community support and reducing barriers to participation by older adults with functional vision impairments.
DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF AN INTERDISCIPLINARY HONORS COURSE ON AGING
Authors: DiBartolo Mary C
Published: November 2019

With the aging of Baby Boomers, 2030 will mark the first time in U.S. history that those aged 65 and older will outnumber children. This population shift is expected to place unprecedented demands on the healthcare system in terms of both volume and complexity of care. Given these population shifts and emphasis on an interdisciplinary approach to care, a 4-credit Honors aging course was developed for Honors students in nursing and other health-related majors. Aging Reexamined, Reimagined is offered in a discussion/seminar format with limited enrollment to allow for deep reflective discourse about pertinent issues affecting older adults. Topics include physical/cognitive changes, ageism, Alzheimer’s disease, sexuality, aging in place, polypharmacy, addiction, depression, caregiving, elder justice, and end-of-life care. Guest speakers share their expertise on selected issues, otherwise students alternate leading discussions on remaining topics. There are three focused reflections on assigned experiences which include conducting a videotaped interview with a retired community-based older adult, attending a support group or senior center activity, and visiting a center to view various physical/technological adaptive aids that maintain mobility and independence in the home. There is also a culminating research paper on an issue of their choice. Student evaluations are overwhelmingly positive; comments include gaining in-depth knowledge about the unique needs of this population and the importance of healthy aging with an emphasis on a positive, inter-professional approach to care. It is incumbent upon educators to better prepare students to recognize ageist attitudes, as well as address the significant impact of this “longevity revolution”.
PREPARING FUTURE AGING PROFESSIONALS FOR A RACIALLY, INTERDISCIPLINARY, AND INTERGENERATIONALLY DIVERSE WORKFORCE
Authors: Donorfio Laura K , Elliott Kathryn , Greenberg Phyllis A , Karasik Rona J , Kishimoto Kyoko
Published: November 2019

Workforce development is a growing concern for educators and agencies serving older adults as both workers and aging clientele become more diverse (Obhi, et al., 2017; Spetz et al., 2015). Teaching courses on aging to traditionally-aged college students brings to light ageism, the continued need for cultural competence, and intergenerational experience. Typical pedagogical approaches of lecture and discussion only prepare future aging professionals for what Bloom (1956) calls the “cognitive domain”. Absent is the “affective domain” - how students interpret aging, the lifespan, and diversity in all its forms. For example, issues of power in the aging experience need to be analyzed to understand root causes of racial disparities, as well as the impact of past, current, and future policies. Preparing students for an intergenerational workforce is also essential, as there can be upwards to five generations working in paid positions together. With each generation comes differences in workplace expectations, modes of interacting (e.g., communicating, pace), and the impact of societal policies (e.g., institutional racism, ageism). Drawing upon the multiple disciplinary perspectives of its authors, this poster outlines the most prevalent differences among and between workforce generations, and identifies methods of pedagogy, andragogy, and geragogy needed to prepare future generations of aging professionals. Successful strategies and tools are highlighted including various experiential learning techniques (e.g., service-learning, simulations, vignettes, and anti-racist pedagogy).
EXAMINING THE SOCIAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL BENEFITS OF AN INTERGENERATIONAL PROGRAM FOR OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Leedahl Skye N , Serrano Itza
Published: November 2019

Intergenerational programs are increasingly being implemented across the country. Much of the research on these programs has shown beneficial outcomes for students related to reductions in aging stereotypes, but less in-depth research has been done examining older adult outcomes (see Andreoletti & Howard, 2016 for a review). Currently, faculty and students from the University of Rhode Island (URI) are implementing the Engaging Generations: Cyber-Seniors Program, which connects older adults with student mentors to provide technological support to older adults, help students build communication and teaching skills, and overall build positive intergenerational relations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of intergenerational programming participation for older adults (N=41) related to social isolation, loneliness, social engagement, and digital competency, measured using pre and post surveys given to participants. SPSS software was used to conduct descriptive analysis, t Tests, and one-way ANOVAs. Thematic analysis was used to analyze open-ended participant responses. Results showed significant improvements on items of the digital competency scale, particularly in relation to social media and for those who started with lower levels of digital competence, but not for other measures. Qualitative analysis showed that the older adults valued the technological knowledge gained, and the pleasant interactions and pedagogy. This study advances the engagement theory principle of problem-based learning. Much can be learned from both the significant and non-significant results to help inform intergenerational programming and technology support programs for older adults.
UNDERSTANDING INTERGENERATIONALITY: THEORIES, REFLECTIONS, AND EXPERIENCES
Authors: Hatzifilalithis Stephanie , Grenier Amanda M
Published: November 2019

Research into different aspects of intergenerationalities continues to develop at a considerable pace for individuals, communities, and society more generally. A number of programs and practices for older people are organized around the presumed benefits of intergenerational interaction between younger and older people, with intergenerational programming operating as a taken-for-granted practice. However, the merits of this approach, the models that inform practice, and the learning that takes place between older and younger people, remain under-theorized. This poster reviews and discusses dominant theoretical frameworks including reflections and experiences from intergenerational learning programs in Canada (e.g. Co-Housing). It documents how the field of intergenerationality is conceptualized and executed in the realms of theory and practice; how models retain age and stage-based assumptions, including the polarizing discourses of ‘decline’ and ‘activity’; and discusses the implications for methodology, application, and outcome measures. By understanding the underlying assumptions utilized in the field of intergenerational learning, this poster makes an important contribution to the theoretical foundations, methods, and approaches, that are required to build more appropriate intergenerational landscapes.