bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loneliness Among US Adults During the Early Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Findings From the COVID-19 Coping Study
Authors: O'Shea Brendan , Finlay Jessica , Kler Jasdeep , Joseph Carly , Kobayashi Lindsay
Published: December 2021

We aimed to estimate the prevalence of loneliness and identify the key sociodemographic, employment, living, and health-related risk factors for loneliness among middle-aged and older adults during the early COVID-19 pandemic in the US, when shelter-in-place and social distancing restrictions were in place for much of the country. Data were collected from online questionnaires in the COVID-19 Coping Study, a national study of 6,938 US adults aged 55-110 years, from April 2nd through May 31st, 2020. We estimated the population-weighted prevalence of loneliness (scores of ≥6/9 on the 3-item UCLA Loneliness Scale), overall and according to sociodemographic, employment, living, and health-related factors. We used population-weighted modified Poisson regression models to estimate prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the associations between these factors and loneliness, adjusted for age, sex, race, ethnicity, and education. Overall, 29.5% (95% CI: 27.9%, 31.3%) of US adults aged 55-110 were considered high in loneliness in April and May, 2020. In population-weighted, adjusted models, loneliness was most frequent among those with depression, those who were divorced or separated, those who lived alone, those diagnosed with multiple comorbid conditions, and individuals who were unemployed prior to the pandemic. In conclusion, we identified subpopulations of middle-aged and older US adults that were highly affected by loneliness during a period when COVID-19 shelter-in-place orders were in place across most of the country. These insights may inform the allocation of recourses to mitigate loneliness during times of restricted activity.
The Effect of Testing Turnaround Time on COVID-19 Outbreak Severity Within U.S. Nursing Homes
Authors: Rhodes Annie , Waters Leland , Zanjani Faika , Gendron Tracey , Moore Rick
Published: December 2021

COVID-19 has brought renewed attention to infectious diseases in U.S. nursing homes (NHs). The Testing turnaround time (TAT) of SARS-CoV-2 is vital information, supporting staff ability to make decisions regarding resource allocation. Methods: Using data obtained from the National Healthcare Safety Network’s COVID-19 nursing home data set, we analyzed the TAT of laboratory polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing on outbreak severity (number of people infected) for residents and staff. A MANOVA was performed on NHs submitting data over 26 weeks (May-November 2020). The independent variable was the average TAT for the two weeks prior (<24 hours, 1-2 days, 3-7 days, or 7+ days). Results: N = 15,363 NHs. The TAT for the combined dependent variables of staff and resident COVID-19 cases. F(10,781,354) = 3161.265, Pillai’s trace = .078, p<.0005, partial η2=.4. The average outbreak severity for staff was 13.93 cases when TAT was < 24 hours, compared to 15.29 cases at 1-2 days. For residents, the difference was less pronounced but still significant. The average outbreak severity for residents was 17.07 cases when TAT was<24 hours, compared to 18.61 cases when the TAT was 1-2 days. Tukey post-hoc tests found significance for all levels of testing for residents and staff at p<.0005. Discussion: Time differences to receive PCR test results from a laboratory are significant in outbreak severity for staff and residents. The most meaningful result positively impacting the ultimate spread and severity of gross cases is when the TAT for PCR results is < 1 day.
The Impact of COVID-19: Perspectives of Recreational Therapists Working with Older Adults
Authors: Kemeny Betsy , DeVries Dawn
Published: December 2021

This study explored the perspectives of recreational therapists (RT) from Pennsylvania and Michigan and how COVID-19 has impacted older adults and their roles in various settings. COVID-19 safety restrictions limiting social interaction with both peers and families had the potential for negatively impacting the social and emotional well-being of older adults (Van Orden et al., 2020) and the roles of therapists who work with them. Because peer socialization and physical activity programs prevent falls (Cameron et al., 2018) and improve depressive symptoms (Harvey et al., 2015), a better understanding of COVID-19 impact is significant. From a qualitative viewpoint, 14 RTs from various levels of care were interviewed to better understand their perspective on the impacts of COVID on older adults and their own practice. Hour long interviews conducted via zoom focused on organizational changes, role changes, and impact on older adults. After recordings were transcribed, multiple researchers classified, summarized, and tabulated the data. A consensus method determined common themes. From the RT’s perspective, older adults have not only been negatively impacted in the social domain. While many older adults showed resilience, others were impacted physically, emotionally, and cognitively. Moreover, an increased importance on meaningful engagement, recreation, and leisure emerged. Technology became an essential tool in interpersonal connection. Teamwork, personal self-care, and coping were integral to providing effective care. Post pandemic, RTs are concerned about the challenge of reengaging older adults in groups but are certain that technology will continue to be used in a more expansive way in programs.
The Lived Experience of Assisted Living Administrators During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Hill Elizabeth , Davis Rebecca , Greer Paige , Strouse Susan
Published: December 2021

Since March, 2020, administrators in assisted living (AL) residences have been challenged to provide the best care for their populations while undergoing a pandemic. Because nothing like this has happened in the recent past, AL administrators had to make many new decisions. The purpose of this phenomenological study is to reflect on the lived experiences of AL administrators during the COVID pandemic. Using a semi structured interview, individual interviews of four AL administrators from different AL communities were conducted via Zoom. The interviews contained questions related to the participants’ experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic. The recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim into MAXQDA. Data analysis followed a modified Giorgi approach, by reviewing the recorded interviews, categorizing the data into meaning units, then situated units, generalized units, and then themes. Results indicated that AL administrators have been adapting to constantly changing and conflicting regulations. The pandemic incited fear, depression, moral distress, but also hope for the future. The data shows a multitude of feelings and actions related to the well-being of the staff, residents, and residents’ families. The limitations of this study include a small sample size and the evolving nature of the pandemic in Michigan. Opportunities for future research would be to compare our findings to the experience of other AL’s in the United States. The results show the complexity of AL administrators’ lived experiences during the pandemic and highlight important considerations if an event like the pandemic were to occur again.
“Hunger Would Kill us Instead of the Pandemic:” Elders’ Responses to COVID-19 in Ethiopia
Authors: Kotecho Messay , Takele Anduamlak , Adamek Margaret
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unpredictable challenges globally. Urban elders in Global South nations are among the major population groups vulnerable to COVID-19. A qualitative case study design was used to uncover the challenges and sources of support for poor urban elders during COVID-19 lockdown in Ethiopia. Data were collected from 27 elders age 60 and above in Debre Markos Town via in-depth interviews and document review. Narrative data were analyzed using thematic data analysis. Four prominent themes were identified: 1. Food insecurity (“Hunger would kill us instead of COVID-19”), 2. Hopelessness (“Feeling hopeless and begging to die”), 3. Social isolation (“We prefer social support rather than food donations”) and 4. Gratitude (“Feeling thankful”). The physical distancing program introduced to contain the pandemic isolated many elders and diminished their capacity to access support from others needed to perform their daily activities. An institutional welfare system is needed to ensure older adults in the Global South can live a joyful and dignified life, even through a global pandemic. Moreover, a special emergency fund to meet older adults’ basic needs during a pandemic like COVID-19 should be introduced to minimize the effect of crises on vulnerable groups like destitute older adults in Ethiopia.
We Need to Protect Ourselves: The Mental Burden of Managing Type 2 Diabetes among Black men During the COVID19 Pandemic
Authors: Sherman Ledric , Pattin Anthony , Pattin Carla , Strong Michelle , Vera Sara
Published: December 2021

As COVID-19 swept across the United States in 2020, it appeared to infect and kill Black Americans at a disproportionately high rate. When examining the literature pertaining to the pandemic, present COVID-19 research focuses on physical health, but research regarding mental health and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic are lacking, especially among Black men and minority men in general. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to learn more about the type 2 diabetes (T2D) management related stress among Black men (n=22) during the COVID-19 pandemic. One on one interviews were conducted via Zoom video conferencing to gain an understanding of the experiences of managing T2D in a pandemic environment. Three main themes emerged from the study, which are: (1) my stress levels during this time, (2) diabetes specific stressors, and (3) coping mechanisms. Black men with diabetes may need psychosocial support that holistically addresses general developmental and diabetes-specific stressors and their influences on one another. Recognizing how Black men react to stress is essential for understanding and addressing their disproportionally high prevalence of stress related to management of chronic conditions and avoiding additional complications, morbidity or mortality. It is imperative to examine how stress and coping frameworks relate to men’s health, in general, but specifically in Black men.
From Surviving to Excelling: Adaptation of Gerontology Service Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Jensen Donna , Abah Theresa , Sewell Carol , Ranjo Terrence
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted older adults, and the educational service-learning opportunities available to gerontology students. As an applied major, Sacramento State University’s Gerontology Department heavily depends on service-learning. The pandemic affected existing gerontology placements and their ability to host student learning. In addition, at the outset of the pandemic, Sacramento State University immediately terminated in-person service learning. The Gerontology Department prioritized student and community safety while still valuing the need for students to have meaningful and relevant community-based learning experiences. Gerontology faculty worked with community partners to shift these vital learning experiences. This poster presentation focuses on the creative ways the department engaged community partners to continue quality learning opportunities for students while assisting community partners with the unrelenting shifts in operations. Three innovative service-learning and community engagement practices will be addressed, including a) Partnering with the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) to create and provide the statewide Social Bridging Project for older adults throughout California; b) Expanding the relationship with Sacramento State’s Renaissance Society, a lifelong learning and community engagement program for older adults; and c) Partnering with a community-based Cardio-vascular Wellness Program to keep older adults active and engaged while remaining at home. The poster will review the pivot to virtual service learning and share how this shift enhanced student learning and community service. This will include expanding the use of technology and capitalizing on innovative methods to reach out and provide service to older adults, the local community, and the state of California.
COVID-19 Pandemic on smoking behavior changes among African American Smokers Eligible for LDCT Screening
Authors: Tseng Tung-Sung , Kao Yu Hsiang , Li Mirandy
Published: December 2021

Smoking has been observed to associate with an elevated severity of disease and risk of mortality among people with COVID-19. Additionally, African American smokers have higher rates of mortality from lung cancer than other racial/ethnic groups. Low dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening can detect lung cancer early to decrease lung cancer-specific mortality for current smokers but remains under-utilized among these population. However, we know little about the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on smoking behavior changes among African American smokers who qualify for LDCT screening. This study recruited 60 African American daily smokers seen in primary care clinics, who qualified to receive LDCT screening in a New Orleans, LA hospital. A total of 22 participants (36.7%) completed anonymous cross-sectional survey that collected demographic, disease history, tobacco use, and smoking cessation behaviors during the period of COVID-19 pandemic via phone interview. The majority were older (61.2 [SD=4.7]), female (77.3%), earned annual income less than $20,000 (100.0%), had Medicaid (63.6%), overweight/obesity (72.7%), planned to quit smoking within 6 months (52.4%), and would consider taking LDCT screening after COIVD-19 pandemic (95.2%). Half of smokers reported they have been diagnosed hypertension (47.6%), diabetes (52.4%), and arthritis (57.1%). Regarding health behavior changes, 42.9% smokers reported they smoked more, felt more stress (42.9%) and anxiety (33.4%) after COVID-19 outbreak. Smoking cessation programs may focus on this high-risk minority population in the post COVID-19 pandemic to help them decrease cigarette smoking and enhance their motivation to quit smoking.
Health Behaviors in Times of COVID: Different Sources of Support for Older Adults
Authors: Garza Elizabeth Zambrano , Pauly Theresa , Murphy Rachel , Linden Wolfgang , Ashe Maureen , Gerstorf Denis , Madden Kenneth , Hoppmann Christiane
Published: December 2021

Eating a nutritious diet reduces vulnerability to common chronic diseases. Yet, older adults struggle to meet nutritional guidelines; many have found it particularly challenging to access fresh foods such as fruits and vegetables during the pandemic. Thus, it is vital to better understand how older adults may recruit the help of close others to support healthy dietary intake. This COVID-19 study examines the role of support for promoting fruit and vegetable consumption in daily life. Ninety-seven older adults participated with a close other of their choice (62 % spouse; 38% non-spouse Mage partner1 = 72, SD = 5.26, Mage partner2 = 62, SD = 16.38). Both partners completed two daily questionnaires for 10 days. In the morning they reported their intentions for eating fruit and vegetables. In the evening, they noted their consumed fruit and vegetable servings, the extent to which this matched their intentions, and their partners support in doing so. Consistent with previous research, the older participants were, the more they consumed fruits and vegetables. On days when participants received more support from their partner, they were more successful at reaching their dietary goals. Interestingly, initial findings suggest that associations were stronger when support was provided from a non-spouse than if the support came from spouse. Follow-up analyses, with a larger sample, will further examine some of the underlying mechanisms so as to better understand the role of different kinds of support providers during the pandemic and shed light on who may be best suited to provide support.
Health Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Older Adults With Chronic Conditions
Authors: Polenick Courtney , Lee Vanessa , Salwi Shreya , Daniel Nikita , Zhou Annie , Meyers Summer , Kaba Diarratou
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic may have adverse health implications, particularly among older adults with chronic conditions who are at increased risk of severe illness. This cross-sectional study examined the early health impacts of the pandemic among adults aged 50 and older with chronic conditions. Participants included 700 adults (M = 64.60 years, SD = 8.85, range = 50 – 94) from Michigan (82.4%) and 33 other U.S. states who reported at least one chronic condition and completed an anonymous online survey between May 14 and July 9, 2020. Of these, 488 also provided open-ended responses. Individuals reported lower illness self-efficacy, less consumption of fruits, vegetables, and fried foods, and lower physical activity, along with greater alcohol use since the pandemic. About half (42.7%) reported worsened sleep. One in five (20.1%) reported at least some difficulty obtaining medications and over half (60.4%) reported at least some difficulty receiving routine care. Almost two-thirds (63.9%) had delayed preventative care and one in five (19.3%) had delayed essential medical treatment. Nearly half (42.6%) avoided contacting care providers about a physical health concern and one in eight (12.9%) avoided reporting mental health concerns. Qualitative data revealed that the pandemic has influenced how participants cared for their physical health through following guidelines related to COVID-19; coping with daily routine changes; greater awareness of self-care; mental health impacts; and health care disruptions. Older adults with chronic conditions report distinct pandemic-related challenges for self-care and health care that should be addressed in interventions to maintain their health and functioning.
Social Support is Associated with Better Health in the Face of COVID-19
Authors: Bernstein Laura , Patrick Julie Hicks
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has the potential to influence the health of the nation, both directly and indirectly, though increased stress. As with other stressful crises, social support may buffer against the deleterious effects of the stress surrounding COVID-19 (Cohen & Wills, 1985). We were interested in how self-reported health changed during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States and whether age or positive social exchanges influenced this potential change. We tested a latent growth curve model of change in SF12 scores over 4 points of measurement during the first year of the pandemic. Data from 237 adults (Mean age 40.7 yrs) were used to test whether SF12 scores changed over the 11 month period and whether age and initial positive social exchanges influenced both the intercept and trajectory of change over time. Results showed that the model fit the data well, X2 (DF = 13, N = 237) = 11.44, p = .57, RMSEA < .06. Of note, older age was associated with both better initial health (b = .036**) and a slower decrease over the year (b = -.005*). Initial positive social exchanges were associated with better initial health (b = .067*) but did not alter the trajectory of change over time. These findings suggest an age-related advantage for health in the face of COVID-19 and that positive social support is associated with better health, at least at the very beginning of the pandemic.
Vet To Vet Maine: COVID 19 Effect on a Veteran Companion Pilot Study in Reducing Social Isolation and Loneliness
Authors: Gugliucci Marilyn , Lin Amy , Weaver Shirley
Published: December 2021

Background: Maine veterans represent 11.8% of Maine population, twice that of the United States. Veterans are at risk for social isolation, loneliness and suicide. The mission of Vet To Vet (V2V) Maine, a non-profit organization, connects trained veteran volunteers with fellow veterans (veteran friends) for companionship, assistance with benefits, and support independent living. This study: (1) assessed if V2V program fulfilled its mission; and (2) determined any care partner effects from the program. Methods: Mixed methods research spanned 6-months, 2019-2020. Twenty-four participants; trained Veteran Volunteers (VV) were paired with Veteran Friends. Four Care Partners (CP) of Veteran Friends participated. Assessments included pre/post Veteran Rand Health Survey (VR-12), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and Late Onset Stress Symptomatology (LOSS) Short Form. CPs completed pre/post Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI-22) assessments. Qualitative interviews focused on visits/activities, relationship building, and program feedback. Data analyses included Wilcoxon Sign Test and NVivo 12+ Qualitative Data Analysis Software. Results: Pre/post data failed to show significance (P=.05), however trends supported an improvement in mental and physical health scores. COVID-19 was a confounding variable as state stay-at-home orders occurred at the companion program study mid-point. Three key themes included; (1) Veteran Companionship; (2) Effects of COVID; and (3) Care Partners. The V2V Companion program was determined effective and reported highly successful relationship matches. CPs confirmed the importance and benefits of V2V. Conclusion: The V2V Maine companion program pilot research supported success in connecting Veterans Volunteer and Veteran Friends; fostering companionship, friendships, mentoring, assisting with benefits, and supporting independent living.
The Cortical Dynamics of Dual-Task Standing in Older Adults
Authors: Kahya Melike , Lo On-Yee , Zhou Junhong , Pascual-Leone Alvaro , Lipsitz Lewis , Hausdorff Jeffrey , Michel Christoph , Manor Brad
Published: December 2021

In older adults, the extent to which performing a cognitive task when standing diminishes postural control is predictive of future falls and cognitive decline. The cortical control of such “dual-tasking,” however, remains poorly understood. Electroencephalogram (EEG) studies have demonstrated that the level of attention and cognitive inhibitory activity during cognitive task performance can be quantified by changes in brain activity in specific frequency bands; namely, an increase in theta/beta ratio and a decrease in alpha-band power, respectively. We hypothesized that in older adults, dual-tasking would increase theta/beta ratio and decrease alpha-band power, and, that greater alpha-band power during quiet standing would predict worse dual-task performance. To test this hypothesis, we recorded postural sway and EEG (32-channels) in 30 older adults without overt disease as they completed trials of standing, with and without verbalized serial subtractions, on four separate visits. Postural sway speed, as well as absolute theta/beta power ratio and alpha-band power, were calculated. The theta/beta power ratio and alpha-band power demonstrated high test-retest reliability during quiet and dual-task standing across visits (intra-class correlation coefficients >0.70). Compared with quiet standing, dual-tasking increased theta/beta power ratio (p<0.0001) and decreased alpha-band power (p=0.002). Participants who exhibited greater alpha-band power during quiet standing demonstrated a greater dual-task cost (i.e., percent increase, indicative of worse performance) to postural sway speed (r=0.3, p=0.01). These results suggest that in older adults, dual-tasking while standing increases EEG-derived metrics related to attention, and, that greater cognitive inhibitory activity during quiet standing is associated with worse dual-task standing performance.
Integrating Alzheimer's Messages into Chronic Disease Programs
Authors: Best Leslie , Card Rebecca Drewette , Garbarino Lisa , Taylor Christopher , Boim Kimberly , Olivari Benjamin
Published: December 2021

The number of people in the United States with dementia is increasing, with nearly six million people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. It is the fifth leading cause of death for those aged ≥65 years. Over 95% of people with dementia have another comorbid chronic condition. The Healthy Brain Initiative’s State and Local Public Health Partnerships to Address Dementia: The 2018-2023 Road Map notes that public health agencies should raise awareness of the link between brain health and physical health, and specifically calls out tobacco prevention and control, cardiovascular health management diabetes prevention and management, obesity prevention and control, and injury prevention as intervention points. The National Association of Chronic Disease Directors developed brain health messages targeted to reduce risk for cognitive decline through the prevention and control of comorbid chronic conditions. These messages can be leveraged for public health action by integrating them into existing chronic disease programs.
Virtues and Character Strengths in Persons with Mild Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias
Authors: McGee Jocelyn , McElroy Michaela
Published: December 2021

The Values in Action (VIA) framework, from positive psychology, consists of 6 virtues (wisdom, courage, humanity, justice, temperance, and transcendence) which can be broken down into 24 strengths of character (Peterson & Seligman, 2004). Although this framework has been used to understand virtues and strengths in various populations, persons with Alzheimer’s disease and other progressive dementias have been largely excluded from such studies. The aims of our study were to utilize the VIA framework to: 1) examine the expression of virtues and character strengths in a sample of persons diagnosed with probable AD (who were clinically designated as having mild disease based on neuropsychological assessment); and 2) provide implications for further strengths-based research and clinical practice with this population. Twenty-eight older adults, between the ages of 56 and 93 (M = 77.88, SD = 9.88), participated in the study. All had a Clinical Dementia Reacting Scale (CDR) of 1 which suggested mild dementia. The Dimensions of Living with Dementia Interview (DLD; McGee & Carlson, 2013) was utilized for data collection. Interviews lasted approximately 45 minutes per participant. The interviews were professionally transcribed, audit checked, and uploaded to NVivo (2018) for analysis. Directed content analysis (Hsieh & Shannon, 2005) was utilized to extend the VIA framework to this sample. The virtues of wisdom, courage, humanity, temperance, and transcendence were demonstrated. We share how these virtues and corresponding character strengths can assist people with early-stage dementia in adaptation to the disease. Implications for clinical practice and further research are provided.
Motoric Cognitive Risk Syndrome: Its prognostic value for dementia and other health outcomes. A systematic review
Authors: Mullin Donncha , Cockburn Alastair , Welstead Miles , Luciano Michelle , Muniz-Terrera Graciela , Russ Tom
Published: December 2021

Motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR) is a recently defined concept combining objective slow gait and subjective cognitive complaints, in the absence of dementia or significant functional impairment. MCR is associated with an increased risk for dementia but its prognostic value for other mental and physical health conditions is less studied. MCR is quick, inexpensive and easy to measure, making it a potentially useful clinical tool. This review aims to be the first to synthesise all mental and physical health outcomes associated with MCR since the term was coined in 2013. Results from multiple databases (MEDLINE, AMED, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane library; conception to November 2020) were screened independently and risk of bias was assessed. [Results are currently preliminary but definitive findings will be available in time for the conference] In total, 1057 references were screened, resulting in 34 studies being included, of which 14 will be meta-analysed. Eleven longitudinal studies examined MCR in relation to incident cognitive impairment or dementia conversion. Other prospective studies found that MCR predicted higher risk of mortality (n=2), falls (n=3), post-fall fractures (n=1), gait dysfunction (n=1), and cardiovascular risk factors and diseases (n=1). The results from the 23 cross-sectional studies reporting associations with MCR highlight areas for further study to better understand the biological mechanisms of MCR. By synthesising the latest evidence, this review reinforces the value of MCR for predicting incident dementia, but also adds weight to its value in relation to other important age-related health outcomes.
Music and Dementia: Exploring Protective Factors for Cognitive Function
Authors: Santana Sebastian , Willden Michael , Sheets Debra , Smith Andre , Stawski Robert , MacDonald Stuart
Published: December 2021

Ample research suggests that musical interventions have the potential to boost social connection, engender positive emotions, and potentially buffer against depression in people with dementia (PwD). Here, our focus concerns expanding the present body of knowledge by quantifying the benefits of a music-based nonpharmacological intervention. The Voices in Motion (ViM) choir is an intergenerational sociocognitive lifestyle intervention designed to support caregivers and PwD. Over the course of 18 months, the well-being of PwD and caregiver dyads (N = 32; mean age = 79.6 years; 53% female) were rigorously assessed using an intensive repeated measures design. This project set out to determine whether positive change in the social dimensions of health (i.e., social connection [SC] and psychological well-being [WB]) ameliorates depression in PwD. Multilevel modeling was employed to examine longitudinal change within and between individuals. SC significantly predicted intraindividual change (□20 = -0.48, p =.03), with a predictive trend for between person differences (□00 = -0.58, p =.08). On occasions when PwD reported more SC, relative to their own baseline, they also reported fewer depressive symptoms. The effect associated with WB was significant at the between-person level (□00 = -0.18, p =.01). Our analysis suggests that a lifestyle intervention targeting psychological health and wellbeing may also contribute to the depressive signs and symptoms in PwD. As the current health care system is forced to adapt to social distancing and constant precautionary measures, it is crucial to understand and potentially harness the protective effects of modifiable lifestyle factors.
Prevalence of Dementia in American Indian/ Alaska Native Medicare Beneficiaries
Authors: Moon Heehyul , MacLehose Richard , Kaholokula Joseph , Rote Sunshine , Roh Soonhee
Published: December 2021

Given the increase in life expectancy for American Indians and Alaska Natives (AIANs) due to many positive changes in social and environmental factors, the number of AIAN older adults with dementia is expected to grow from 23,850 in 2010 to over 100,000 by 2050. However, there have been few studies on the prevalence of dementia that have included AIANs . The purpose of the current study was to estimate the prevalence of dementia among AIANs over 65 years compared to non-Hispanic Whites (NHWs), Non-Hispanic Blacks (NHBs), Hispanics. The current study used survey data from Round 5 of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS, 2015) (N=7,449), a nationally representative study of Medicare beneficiaries 65 years and older. We estimated the age and gender-adjusted prevalence of dementia and 95% confidence intervals for each race/ethnicity. The majority of participants were between 65 and 74 years old. Slightly more than half of them were female. AIAN Medicare beneficiaries showed a significantly higher prevalence of dementia than NHWs after adjusting for age and gender (4% greater or higher prevalence). We also observed a significantly lower prevalence of dementia in AIAN Medicare beneficiaries than NHBs, Hispanics. While previous research has reported that AIANs shave a similar or lower prevalence of dementia than NHWs, our findings indicate significant dementia disparities in AIAN Medicare beneficiaries. Future research should focus on dementia prevalence and risk factors within/between AIAN tribes.
Driving Frequency and Well-Being in Older Adulthood
Authors: Suntai Zainab , Kubanga Kefentse , Lidbe Abhay , Adanu Emmanuel
Published: December 2021

The activity theory of aging suggests that older adults age successfully when they remain active and engaged. While many older adults are still able to drive, not all are as engaged in social activities, despite having the transportation to be able to do so. As such, this study aimed to examine the association between the frequency of driving and overall well-being among older adults. The hypothesis is that older adults who drive more frequently would have higher well-being, as they are likely driving to engaging activities. A sample of 1,663 older adults who reported that they are able to drive were derived from the 2018 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS). The NHATS is an annual longitudinal panel of survey of adults aged 65 and older living in the United States. Chi-square tests were used for bivariate analyses and a weighted multivariable logistic regression model was used to predict well-being based on driving frequency. Results showed that compared to those who drive every day, those who drive most days (OR=0.771, CI= [0.768-0.775]), some days (OR=0.495, CI= [0.492-0.497]), rarely (OR=0.558, CI= [0.555-0.562]) or never (OR=0.371, CI= [0.367-0.374]) were less likely to have high well-being. Interventions geared at improving well-being among older adults should therefore consider increasing awareness of social events, to ensure that older adults who are able to drive can have a good quality of life by driving to social activities.
Drugged Driving among Sexual Minority Older Adults in the United States, 2015-2019
Authors: Yang Jie , Yockey Andrew
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Drugged driving, the act of operating vehicles under the influence of one or more illicit substances is responsible for numerous emergency department visits, deaths, and increased medical costs. Despite higher instances of drug use, older sexual minority (LGB) adults are often neglected in prevention efforts. This study assessed inequities between sexual minority older adults and their heterosexual counterparts in drugged driving across three difference substances (alcohol, marijuana, other drugs). Methods: Pooled data from individuals 50 years or older (n = 43,238; 1,115 sexual minority adults) in the 2015–2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health were analyzed. Past-year driving under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, and illicit drugs were outcome variables, and survey-weighted frequencies with 95% confidence limits and crude ORs with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated. Results: In the past year, 4.82% of older adults drove under the influence of alcohol, 1.33% drove under the influence of marijuana, and 1.48% drove under the influence of illicit drugs. Sexual minority adults consistently showed higher odds of drugged driving than their heterosexual counterparts, with individuals who identify as bisexual being most at risk for driving under the influence of illicit drugs (aOR:4.49, 95%CI: 2.84, 7.08) and marijuana (aOR:3.95, 95%CI: 2.39, 6.51). Discussion: There are differences drugged driving by sexual orientation across the three substances we assessed. These rates of substance use among older sexual minority adults warrant ongoing concern, and it is critical to consider differences across the life course in designing and evaluating interventions to address inequities.
Dyadic Successful Aging and the Limits of Agency
Authors: Klingel Markus
Published: December 2021

With increasing life expectancy, late life has become a longer, crucial part of the individual and dyadic life course. New opportunities, tasks and decisions emerged. Successful aging norms emphasize agency and autonomy. This can be activating, but also alienating. With increasing constraints, agency is limited and ideals of autonomy become dysfunctional. This challenges also relationships. Aging, functional losses and approaching death threaten dyadic satisfaction and functionality. Potentially, successful aging norms could erode dyadic solidarity when needed the most: in late life. This mixed-methods longitudinal study combines interviews and questionnaires at three observations across five years. Its focus lies on change over time and findings at observation three. The sample consists of eight German couples (78-86 years old, 50-65 years married, high relationship satisfaction, white, urban). What does aging mean for individualized actors? How do aging couples negotiate, decide and act on aging, autonomy and death? How do successful aging norms modulate dyadic aging? Overall, actors have internalized successful aging and benefit by influencing their health positively. However, this has become ambivalent. Actors increasingly perceive their future as limited and beyond individual control. Acceptance of losses that challenge the self is difficult, autonomy ideals burdensome and death salient. As individual agency is constrained, the dyad is still a functional stronghold against aging. Yet, it has to adapt as well to – potentially differential - individual aging. Losses can and do threaten couples’ functional and emotional unity. Four patterns of self-dyad dynamics emerged and exemplify tensions between individualized and dyadic successful aging.
Exploring Collaboration Enjoyment and Decisional Uncertainty: Actor-Partner Effects in Advanced Care Planning
Authors: Hiatt Shirin , Guo Jia-Wen , Ellington Lee , Tay Djin
Published: December 2021

Caregivers are often engaged in decision making with and for patients. However, the role of patient-caregiver interpersonal processes on decisions about advance care planning (ACP) are not well known. This secondary data analysis examined the effects of patient-caregiver enjoyment about collaboration regarding choices for life-sustaining treatment on patients’ and caregivers’ decisional uncertainty following a dyadic ACP intervention. A purposive sample of 18 adult home health patients and their informal caregivers (N=36) participated in a one-group pretest posttest study. The Interpersonal Enjoyment subscale of the Perceptions of Collaboration Questionnaire and the Decisional Uncertainty subscale of the Decisional Conflict Scale were administered using parallel questionnaires. The Actor-Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) was used to examine actor and partner effects of patients and caregivers’ interpersonal enjoyment on their uncertainty in decisions about ACP before and after the intervention. The mean age was 68.2±9.6 years for patients and 61.3±13.6 years for caregivers. The majority of patients (61.1%) and caregivers (72.2%) were female and married (55.6% and 66.7%, respectively). Almost all were non-Hispanic White (97.0%). Patients’ and caregivers’ interpersonal enjoyment and uncertainty scores were similar before the intervention. A significant partner effect between greater interpersonal enjoyment among caregivers at pretest and greater patient uncertainty at posttest (β=0.44, p=.037) was found. Previous analyses found that overall patients improved in decisional uncertainty at posttest. However, these findings suggest that for some dyads, interpersonal factors can negatively affect patients’ decisional certainty. Future research is needed to verify this finding with a larger sample.
The Impact of Self- and Relation-Inferred Efficacy on Physical Activity in Older Adult Couples
Authors: Broen Tiana , Choi Yoonseok , Gerstorf Denis , Ashe Maureen , Madden Kenneth , Hoppmann Christiane
Published: December 2021

Previous research has indicated that physical activity (PA) is a health-promoting behavior that is closely linked in couples. However, few studies have examined how PA is intertwined among couples in their everyday lives. For example, relation-inferred efficacy (RIE) is an individual perception that captures whether a close other believes in one’s own abilities to perform specific behaviours; it originates from the sports literature on coach-athlete dyads and has been shown to shape athlete performance. Applying a repeated daily life assessment design, the current study targets self-efficacy (SE) and relation-inferred efficacy (RIE) as predictors of PA in older adult couples, as well as potential moderators when obstacles occur. We hypothesized that: (a.) There is a main effect of SE and RIE on PA. (b.) PA is lower on days when people anticipate barriers (c.) SE and RIE moderate the time-varying relationship between PA and barriers. Heterosexual couples (N=108 couples, Mage=70.5 years, SD=6.70) rated their SE and REI, completed daily electronic questionnaires asking about barriers and wore an accelerometer to capture indices of PA across seven days. In line with past work, SE (r(2438)=.13, p=<.001) and RIE (r(2438)=.14, p=<.001) were significantly related to total moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) and step counts. A series of multilevel models were fit to examine the hypotheses. Preliminary analyses indicated that RIE (estimate=3.93, SE=1.49, p=.009) is a stronger predictor of MVPA than SE (estimate=2.83, SE=2.02, p=.16). Further analysis will be conducted to unpack daily life circumstances that create barriers to PA, including daily pain, anxiety, and tiredness.
An Ounce of Prevention: Reducing Ageism Through the Lens of Public Health
Authors: Grinshteyn Erin
Published: December 2021

Ageism is pervasive. The negative consequences of ageism are vast, and the literature on the effects of ageism on health and health care is extensive. The perpetrators of ageism are equally vast. While it may be tempting to believe that those who go into the fields of gerontology and geriatrics are free from these attitudes and behaviors, this is untrue. It is reasonable to suspect that future public health professionals, even those interested in gerontology, may also carry ageist ideas and practices into their professional careers. This research was developed to determine whether teaching about aging and ageism in a public health course could reduce ageism among students. Participants were students in a class on aging and public health. All students were graduate students in a Master of Public Health (MPH) program. Multiple assessments were used to assess ageism including the Framboni Scale of Ageism (FSA), a validated 29-question measure used to assess ageism, and the Succession, Identity, and Consumption (SIC) scale, another scale assessing ageism. Students were enrolled in an elective course on aging and public health, which was taught through the public health lens of disease prevention and health promotion. Health topics related to aging are discussed with an emphasis on prevention. The contributions older adults make, and the resulting improved health and well-being of self, others, and community are promoted. And the class participates in activities with a variety of community-dwelling older adults. Results show that ageism among students is reduced after the semester long course.
College students’ in Jamaica opinion about older adults and their role as future caregivers: Case Example
Authors: McKenzie Sharon , Latibeaudiere Sandra
Published: December 2021

Ageing is a natural human experience, yet for many people getting old provoke fears of vulnerability, fragility, undesirability, and incapacity. Such perceptions are often attributed to various taboos, prejudices, discrimination and stereotype associated with old age. The purpose of this study was to assess college students’ in Jamaica opinion about older adults and their role as future caregivers. Specifically, the study sought to: (1) identify whether college students hold ageist stereotype/negative image about older adults and whether they influence future role as caregiver, 2) assess their knowledge of the chronic conditions that affect older adults, and 3) assess whether they see themselves working or taking an active role in future caregiving. As we think about the future directions of healthcare provision for older adults, this small sample of college students provided a discourse about ageing and key elements that are important for educators in a developing country such as Jamaica to consider when building a gerontology curriculum.
Predicting Students’ Interest in Aging-Related Careers: Suggestions for Pedagogical Intervention
Authors: Liou Chih-ling
Published: December 2021

College students often hold negative attitudes toward elders and rank this area of practice at the bottom of their future professional life; colleges and universities have an important role to play in changing attitudes and attracting more professionals to work with older adults. This study examined factors contributing to students’ attitudes toward older adults to provide suggestions for pedagogical intervention. Data was collected from 195 undergraduates participating in an online survey with questions on the quality of relationships with a grandparent and other nonfamilial older adults, previous experience and future interest in pursuing a career in an aging-related field, and The Fabroni Scale of Ageism (Fabroni et al., 2010). Path analyses using hierarchical multiple regression revealed that high quality relationships with older adults (i.e., both grandparents and nonfamilial elders) was associated with less negative attitudes and more interest in pursuing a future career in age-related jobs/internships. Although both types of relationship quality were significant in the model (p<.05), path coefficients demonstrated that relationships with nonfamilial elders have a greater impact on participants’ attitudes (β= -.250, p=.001 versus β= -.146, p=.045). Previous working/internship experiences with older adults also predicted a greater willingness to pursue a future career in an aging-related field (β= .333, p<.001). Findings suggest that colleges could increase students’ interest in pursuing aging-related careers with multiple interventions, such as developing opportunities to interact and build relationships with older adults in the community, updating information on job opportunities, pay scales, and advancement opportunities, and providing more gerontological course or modules.
What Do Introduction to Psychology Textbooks Have to Say About Older Adults?
Authors: Hancock Zoe , Wynn Matthew , Carpenter Brian
Published: December 2021

Introduction to Psychology is one of the most popular undergraduate courses, an entry course for psychology majors and also popular with students from other disciplines. Consequently, the content in introductory psychology textbooks has the potential to influence undergraduates’ knowledge, attitudes, and interests, including those related to aging. The purpose of this study was to analyze aging-related content in introductory psychology textbooks to understand the topics to which students are exposed in this important course. We analyzed the indices of 21 best-selling Introduction to Psychology textbooks for both advanced and intermediate audiences, published between 2018 and 2020. We extracted and aggregated 275 unique, aging-specific index terms from the textbooks and analyzed their relative frequency. We identified 61 superordinate index terms corresponding to general terms (e.g., “aging,” “death”). The indices also included 214 unique subordinate terms that were more specific (e.g., “aging, and cognition”). Across textbooks, the most frequent topics reflected negative consequences of aging (e.g., “Alzheimer disease” = appeared in 100% of textbooks, “death” in 52%). In contrast, positive aspects of aging appeared less often (e.g., “generativity” in 47%, “longevity” in 10%). Terms describing career opportunities were rare (e.g., “gerontology” in 5%, “geropsychology” in 5%), as were modern theories (e.g., “socioemotional selectivity theory” in 28%). Advocacy for comprehensive and balanced representation of aging in introductory psychology textbooks is critical for educating students and promoting interest in the field.