bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular Health at the Intersection of Race and Gender: Life-Course Processes to Reduce Health Disparities
Authors: Lee Chioun , Park Soojin , Boylan Jennifer
Published: December 2020

Objective: Higher cardiovascular health (CVH) scores are significantly associated with reductions in aging-related disease and mortality but racial minorities exhibit poor CVH. We examine the degree to which (a) disparities in CVH exist at the intersection of race and gender and (b) CVH disparities would be reduced if marginalized groups had the same levels of resources and adversities as privileged groups. Methods: We used biomarker subsamples from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) core study and Refresher studies (N=1,948). Causal decomposition analysis was implemented to test hypothetical interventions to equalize the distribution of early-life adversities (ELAs), perceived discrimination, or adult SES between marginalized and privileged groups. We conducted sensitivity analyses to determine to what degree unmeasured confounders would invalidate our findings. Results: White women have the highest CVH score, followed by White men, Black men, and Black women. Intervening on ELAs reduces the disparities: White men vs. Black women (30% of reduction) and White women vs. Black women (15%). Intervening on adult SES provides large disparity reductions: White men vs. Black men (79%), White men vs. Black women (70%), White women vs. Black men (25%), and White women vs. Black women (32%). Among these combinations, interventions on ELAs and adult SES are robust to unmeasured confounders. However, intervening on discrimination makes little change in initial disparities. Discussion: Economic security in midlife for Blacks helps reduce racial disparities in cardiovascular health. Preventing exposure to ELAs among Black women may reduce their vulnerability to cardiovascular disease, compared to Whites.
Testing the Missing Mechanism of Demographic and Health Variables in the Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Lu Peiyi , Shelley Mack
Published: December 2020

Studies using data from longitudinal health survey of older adults usually assumed the data were missing completely at random (MCAR) or missing at random (MAR). Thus subsequent analyses used multiple imputation or likelihood-based method to handle missing data. However, little existing research actually examines whether the data met the MCAR/MAR assumptions before performing data analyses. This study first summarized the commonly used statistical methods to test missing mechanism and discussed their application conditions. Then using two-wave longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS; wave 2014-2015 and wave 2016-2017; N=18,747), this study applied different approaches to test the missing mechanism of several demographic and health variables. These approaches included Little’s test, logistic regression method, nonparametric tests, false discovery rate, and others. Results indicated the data did not meet the MCAR assumption even though they had a very low rate of missing values. Demographic variables provided good auxiliary information for health variables. Health measures (e.g., self-reported health, activity of daily life, depressive symptoms) met the MAR assumptions. Older respondents could drop out and die in the longitudinal survey, but attrition did not significantly affect the MAR assumption. Our findings supported the MAR assumptions for the demographic and health variables in HRS, and therefore provided statistical justification to HRS researchers about using imputation or likelihood-based methods to deal with missing data. However, researchers are strongly encouraged to test the missing mechanism of the specific variables/data they choose when using a new dataset.
Measuring Age-Friendly Communities in New England: Promising Pilot From the New Hampshire Alliance for Healthy Aging
Authors: Davie Laura , Rataj Alison , Dugan Beth , Pepin Renee , Porter Josephine , Rabalais Jennifer , Tecca Matha
Published: December 2020

The New Hampshire Alliance for Healthy Aging is a statewide coalition building partnerships that support and promote healthy aging throughout the state. Through a collective impact approach, six domains (fundamental needs, living arrangements, caregiver support, social and civic engagement, physical and mental wellbeing, and advocacy) were defined to characterize and support the ongoing evaluation of age friendly communities. This poster describes a measurement framework and the development of a strategy to support gathering data across northern New England. A committee of state and national experts has convened to identify the best available indicators and measures for each of the domains and to expose gaps in available data. Representation includes individuals representing the University of New Hampshire, Tri-State Learning Collaborative on Aging (TSLCA), UMass Boston’s Department of Gerontology, and the 100 Million Healthier Lives Initiative (Institute of Healthcare Improvement). Researchers scanned national and state level sources for credibility, consistency, and availability of comparison information. Across the six domains, 43 indicators were selected. 26 did not have available data. Factors measuring social determinants of health are central and especially difficult to quantify, demanding new strategies and data collection approaches. Funding is essential for efforts to define and pilot a new data module to capture a broader set of meaningful data to measure and evaluate age friendly communities. Comprised of grassroots efforts across the fastest aging region of the country, Northern New England, under the Tri-State Learning Collaborative on Aging, is a prime location to use as a pilot project for this module.
Care Team Members’ Perceptions of an Informatics Intervention to Improve Geriatric Care Across Multiple sites
Authors: Franzosa Emily , Traylor Morgan , Aquino Vivian Guerrero , Judon Kimberly , Schwartzkopf Ashley , Dixon Brian , Boockvar Kenneth
Published: December 2020

Electronic health information exchange (HIE) may improve care for geriatric patients receiving care across multiple sites by reducing test duplication, medication prescribing errors, and adverse events. This project evaluated the implementation of an HIE intervention at two VA medical centers offering VA providers real-time notification of non-VA inpatient or ED use, followed by post-hospital geriatric care coordination. We interviewed 23 providers (physicians, nurses, social workers and other care team staff) about their experiences with the program. Interviews were analyzed using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to examine 1) goals and expectations for notifications and transitional care; 2) barriers to effective use of notifications and coordination; and 3) suggestions for improvement. Overall, care team members were positive about the intervention, noting it cut down on time searching for outside medical records and that care coordination visits were helpful in answering patients’ questions and clarifying discharge instructions. However, some providers were not aware of the alerts, found the HIE interface challenging to use, or were concerned that expanding the program would create workflow issues. Suggestions for improvements included sharing information about newly prescribed medications, lab and radiological tests, and progress alerts during the episode of care; and including non-VA providers to facilitate care coordination. Social workers also asked to be included on alerts to improve follow-up. Our findings suggest HIE can be a useful tool for coordinating care across sites, provided information can be easily shared between all care team members and HIE interfaces are streamlined to reduce additional work.
Evaluation of Online Palliative Care Training for Certified Nursing Assistants
Authors: Kim Jinsook , Gray Jennifer
Published: December 2020

Palliative care for older adults is increasingly needed due to a burgeoning older adult population. Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) provide assistance with activities of daily living and comfort care. There, however, is a significant gap in evaluated palliative care trainings for CNAs. We used a waitlisted control group design to evaluate the effectiveness of an 8-module online palliative care training. CNAs (n=102) from 6 SNFs were randomly assigned to an experimental (n=51) and a control group (n=51) and completed a baseline evaluation. The experimental group took a posttest about palliative care knowledge upon training completion and a 1-month follow-up assessment about palliative care self-efficacy. The control group completed the assessments at the same time as the experimental group prior to receiving the training. The majority of the participants were female (92%). On average, participants were 31 years old, with 6.5 years tenure in the field. The retention rate was 90% at the posttest (n=92) and 82% at the 1-month follow-up (n=84). Palliative care knowledge (scored 0–100) significantly increased in the experimental group (mean 4.1, p < 05), with no significant change in the control group. Palliative care self-efficacy (scored 20-100) significantly improved from the baseline to follow-up in both groups (mean 4.3 and 5.8 respectively, p < 05) with no significant difference between study groups. The results indicate the effectiveness of an online palliative care training to improve CNA knowledge. Improvement in palliative care self-efficacy regardless of training participation warrants further exploration.
Assessing Cardiometabolic Health Risk Among U.S. Children Who Live in Grandparent-Headed Households
Authors: Song MinKyoung , Lyons Karen , Hayman Laura , Dieckmann Nathan , Musil Carol
Published: December 2020

Many interventions have been designed to leverage parent-caregivers as change agents for improving children’s cardiometabolic health (CMH), however very few have been designed to leverage grandparent-caregivers for that purpose. This is surprising since there has been a steady increase in children living in grandparent-headed households. As a first step in assessing the potential impact of interventions with grandparent-caregivers, we used data from the National Survey of Children’s Health (2018) to compare CMH measures in children living in grandparent-headed households with CMH measures in children living in parent-headed households. Our hypothesis was that CMH risk might be higher in grandparent households – given that research shows that grandparents taking over caregiving from parents is associated with worse overall health outcomes for both grandparents and their grandchildren. Additionally, since research indicates that children who experience ≥ 4 adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have significantly worse health outcomes, we assessed levels of ACEs. Our analytic sample included children aged 10-17 years (n=14,941). Adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, and health insurance coverage status, children living in grandparent households were more likely to be obese (Adjusted Odds Ratio [95% confidence interval]= 2.04 [1.02, 4.09]), exposed to secondhand smoke (2.32 [1.49, 3.59]), and less likely to meet recommended age-appropriate standards for sleep (0.42 [0.27, 0.67]). The children living in grandparent households were more likely to experience ≥ 4 ACEs (8.59 [5.42, 13.62]). Our results provide indirect evidence that interventions with grandparent-caregivers may be particularly critical for improving CMH risk in families.
Accelerating Translation of Interventions: Does It Need to Take 17 Years for Older Adults to Benefit From Science?
Authors: Bettger Janet , Bettger Janet Prvu
Published: December 2020

Translation of evidence refers to widespread dissemination, adoption and implementation of interventions that can have a significant effect on population health. However, effective translation has been slow; significant lags and inconsistent uptake impede intended benefits for older adults. In response, interest and investments in implementation science as the study of methods to promote the adoption and integration of evidence into real-world settings have rapidly increased. By definition, the methodology applies to evidence-based practices, interventions, and policies. But the process of evidence generation can still be prolonged. This paper introduces a framework being tested at the Duke Roybal Center that integrates a model for behavioral intervention development and testing with principles of implementation science in order to accelerate translation across all phases of behavioral research. Attendees will first learn about the NIH Stage Model supported by NIA that guides researchers to identify, define, and clarify an array of activities across six stages of behavioral intervention development. These stages define components of intervention generation, pilot and then efficacy testing, effectiveness research and ultimately implementation of potent theory-driven interventions that improve health and well-being. With this foundation, the Duke framework will be presented to illustrate how concepts of several common implementation science frameworks and models can be integrated within the different stages. Interactive case studies will be used to illustrate application of this new integrated framework for evidence generation, accelerated implementation and scale-up, and pathways for translation. Integrating the Stage Model with principles from implementation science can accelerate translation.
Recent Pain Among Older Women and Men in the United States by Sexual Orientation
Authors: Galinsky Adena , Goldsen Karen Fredriksen , Dahlhamer James , Norris Tina
Published: December 2020

Pain is not only a result of other health problems but an independent condition that can negatively impact quality of life. Lesbian, gay, and bisexual older adults report more pain compared to their straight counterparts when pain is measured in the aggregate (e.g. “one or more of the following types of pain”). However, scant national research has examined if specific types of pain vary by sexual orientation among older adults. Using 2015-2018 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data, we used logistic regression to separately model four types of pain among women 50+ and men 50+ (lesbian/gay women: n=377, bisexual women: n=142, straight women: n=33,216; gay men: n=508, bisexual men: n=115, straight men: n=25,998) as functions of sexual orientation, controlling for age, race, education, and income. Lesbian women and bisexual men were more likely (AOR=1.46, 95% CI:1.03, 2.08; AOR=2.95, 95% CI:1.08, 3.79, respectively), but bisexual women were less likely (AOR=0.6, 95% CI:0.33, 1.05), than their straight counterparts to have had a migraine or severe headache in the past three months. Bisexual men were also more likely than straight men to report lower back pain in the past three months (AOR=1.66, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.72). Sexual minority women were more likely than straight women to report joint pain in the past 30 days and lower back pain in the past three months. Future research may examine why the prevalence of specific types of pain vary by sexual orientation among older adults.
A Longitudinal Analysis of SF-36 scores Within the Candrive Cohort: An Example of Survivor Bias
Authors: Bedard Michel , Maxwell Hillary , Gelinas Isabelle , Marshall Shawn , Naglie Gary , Porter Michelle , Tuokko Holly , Vrkljan Brenda
Published: December 2020

A bias inherent to prospective studies is focusing only on individuals who remain in the study; these individuals may differ from those who leave early. To examine this issue, we analyzed SF-36 scores by completion status for individuals enrolled in the seven-year Candrive cohort. The SF-36 provides a self-reported evaluation of health and well-being along two subscales, the Physical Component Summary (PCS) and the Mental Component Summary (MCS). Of 928 participants in the cohort, 887 had at least two consecutive years of data starting at baseline (age=76.17, SD=4.81; 61.9% male). A total of 142 participants had 7 years of data. Study discontinuation (due to withdrawal, driving cessation, or death) happened least in early years, and peaked after 6 years (n=235). When analyzed according to completion status, patterns of change in SF-36 scores varied. For example, participants with 7 years of data had mean PCS scores ranging from 51.41 (SD=7.92) at baseline to 46.93 (SD=9.46) at year 7, a change of 0.75 points per year. For those with only two years of data, scores were lower and dropped from 45.82 (SD=9.98) to 43.59 (SD=10.90), a change of 2.23 points over a single year (p<.001). Differences are also evident for other groups. While the results indicate relative stability of SF-36 scores among participants who remained in the study, participants who dropped out reported greater deterioration in scores. These results highlight important differences between participants based on completion status.
Physical Activity Patterns After Retirement: The REGARDS Study
Authors: Shiroma Eric , Rhodes J David , Bennet Aleena , Safford Monika M , MacDonald Leslie , Hooker Steven P , Howard Virginia
Published: December 2020

Major life events, such as retirement, may lead to dramatic shifts in physical activity (PA) patterns. However, there are limited empirical data quantifying the magnitude of these changes. Our aims were to objectively measure PA before and after retirement and to describe changes in participation in various types of PA. Participants were employed black and white men and women enrolled in REGARDS (REasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke), a national prospective cohort study (n=581, mean age 64 years, 25% black, 51% women). Participants met inclusion criteria if they retired between their first and second accelerometer wearing (2009-2013 and 2017-2018, respectively) and had valid accelerometer data (>4 days with >10 hours/day pre- and post-retirement). Accelerometer-based PA was categorized into average minutes per day spent in sedentary, light-intensity, and moderate-to-vigorous PA. Participants reported changes (less, same, more) in 12 types of PA. After retirement, participants decreased both sedentary time (by 36.3 minutes/day) and moderate-to-vigorous PA (by 5.6 minutes/day). Conversely, there was an increase in light-intensity PA (+18.1 minutes/day) after retirement. Participants reported changes in their participation level in various PA activities. For example, 41% reported an increased amount of TV viewing, 42% reported less walking, and 31% reported increased participation in volunteer activities. Findings indicate that retirement coincides with a change in the time spent in each intensity category and the time spent across a range of activity types. Further research is warranted to examine how these changes in physical activity patterns influence post-retirement health status.
The Effect of Theory-Led Intervention for Knee Osteoarthritis in Older Adults: A Cluster Randomized Trial
Authors: Wang Limin , Chen Hongbo , Lu Han , Chen Jieru , Shang Shaomei
Published: December 2020

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common joint disease in people over 60 years old. Exercise therapy is one of the most effective non-pharmacological treatments for KOA, but low exercise adherence needs to be improved. This two-arm cluster randomized trial study was to evaluate the effect of the transtheoretical model-lead home exercise intervention (TTM-HEI) program on exercise adherence, KOA symptom (pain intensity and joint stiffness) and knee function (lower limb muscle strength and balance) in Chinese older adults diagnosed with KOA. A total of 189 community-dwelling older adults with KOA (intervention group: n = 103, control group: n = 86) were enrolled from 14 community centers in Beijing, China in 2018. The intervention was a two-stage and 24-week transtheoretical model-based exercise program, and the control group underwent a same length but non-theory-based exercise program. Exercise adherence was measured at weeks 4, 12, 24, 36, and 48 after the program started, KOA symptoms and knee function were measured at baseline, week 24, and week 48. Results showed that the growth rate of exercise adherence in the intervention group increased 2.175 units compared with the control group (unstandardized coefficient of slope on group B2 = 2.175, p < 0.001), and the intervention program maintained participants’ exercise adherence with 5.56 (SD = 1.00) compared with 3.16 (SD = 1.31) in the control group at week 48. In addition, TTM-HEI program showed significant effects on relieving KOA symptoms and improving knee function. This study provided an effective strategy for KOA intervention.
The Association Between Hearing and Physical Functioning in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study
Authors: Martinez-Amezcua Pablo , Kuo Pei-Lun , Sullivan Kevin , Palta Priya , Sharrett A Richey , Schrack Jennifer , Lin Frank , Deal Jennifer
Published: December 2020

Hearing loss is highly prevalent among older adults and has deleterious effects on health. However, its association with physical functioning is not well defined. We investigated the cross-sectional association between hearing and physical function in 3,339 community-dwelling participants (mean age: 79 years, 59% women) of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study (ARIC). Hearing was measured by pure-tone average ([dB]) of 4 frequencies [0.5,1,2,4 kHz] and physical function was measured using the short physical performance battery (SPPB), which consisted of 3 performance-based tests (balance, gait speed, and chair stands) each scored ranging from 0-4, resulting in a total possible score of 0-12 (higher scores indicating better physical function). We estimated the association between hearing and physical function using continuous scores for each component of the battery, and the overall SPPB score categorized into high [10-12], intermediate [7-9], and low [≤6]) using ordinal logistic regression models. The SPPB scores were reversed for an easier interpretation of the odds ratios (OR). The category with better physical functions was the reference group for each model. After adjustment for demographics and comorbidities, poorer hearing (+10 dB in PTA) was associated with worse physical functioning: OR for lower balance score=1.17, 95% CI [1.08, 1.26]; OR for lower gait speed score=1.15, 95%CI [1.06, 1.25]; OR for lower chair stand score=1.07, 95% CI [1.04, 1.11]; and OR for lower overall SPPB category=1.15, 95%CI [1.07, 1.24]. Hearing loss is associated with poorer physical functioning, highlighting the potentially negative impact of hearing loss on mobility at older ages.
Online Opioid Stewardship Training for Long-Term Care Staff
Authors: Edelman Linda , Andersen Troy , Brunker Cherie , Cox Nicholas , Butler Jorie , Galindo Miguel , Garrett Larry , Butterwork Susan
Published: December 2020

Opioids are often the first-line chronic pain management strategy for long-term care (LTC) residents who are also at increased risk for opioid-related adverse events. Therefore, there is a need to train LTC providers and staff about appropriate opioid use and alternative treatment strategies. Our interdisciplinary team worked with LTC partners to identify staff educational needs around opioid stewardship. Based on this need’s assessment, we developed eight modules about opioid use and risks for older adults, including those with dementia, recommendations for de-prescribing including other pharmacological and non-pharmacological alternatives, SBIRT, and motivational interviewing to determine “what matters”. Each 20-minute module contains didactic and video content that is appropriate for group staff training or individuals and provides rural LTC facilities access to needed training in their home communities. Within the first month of launching online, the program received over 1100 hits and LTC partners are incorporating modules into clinical staff training schedules.
Age-Friendly Universities: Confronting Ageism and Fostering Age Inclusivity
Authors: Montepare Joann , Farah Kimberly
Published: December 2020

The pioneering Age-Friendly University (AFU) initiative, endorsed in 2016 by GSA’s Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE), calls for institutions of higher education to respond to shifting demographics and the needs of aging populations through more age-friendly programs, practices, and partnerships. Over 65 institutions in the United States, Canada, European countries, and beyond have joined the network and adopted the 10 AFU principles. Despite the importance and appeal of the AFU initiative, individuals leading age-friendly efforts on their campuses have found that ageism in higher education is a persistent, yet overlooked, factor holding us back from embracing age diversity. This symposium will feature AFU partners who will discuss how ageism presents itself in higher education, along with offering recommendations for breaking it down and promoting greater age inclusivity. Montepare will open the session with an overview of systematic and implicit instances of ageism in higher education. Bowen and colleagues will then discuss results from an AFU Campus Climate Survey that examined the age attitudes of faculty, students, and staff along with their views about that nature of campus age-friendliness. Manoogian will discuss the value of approaching the teaching of age diversity from an intersectionality perspective. Reynolds and Kruger will provide theoretical framing and dissemination models for the GSA online course Ageism First Aid within various AFU and programmatic structures. Andreoletti and June will discuss how creating an age-inclusive AFU Learning Community can raise awareness about ageism across campus as well as in the community where a campus resides. Age-Friendly University (AFU) Interest Group Sponsored Symposium.
Adopting an Intersectionality Lens Within an Undergraduate Gerontology Curriculum
Authors: Manoogian Margaret
Published: December 2020

Students who plan geriatric/gerontology careers typically learn the biopsychosocial domains of aging. Using intersectionality to understand older adults and family experiences (Calasanti & Kiecolt, 2012), however, offers students a deeper understanding of how aging adults may face interconnected oppressions and inequalities based on race/ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, health, and other aspects of social location within micro and macro contexts. Through systematic assessment of student learning outcomes, a planned programmatic approach to integrating intersectionality was adopted within an undergraduate gerontology program. This multifaceted approach will be highlighted including new course development, course case studies, community member voices, practicum applied practices, and research activities.

Calasanti, T. & Kiecolt, K. J. (2012) Intersectionality and aging families. In Blieszner, R., & Bedford, V. H. (Eds.), Handbook of families and aging (pp. 263-286). Santa Barbara, CA: Praeger. Part of a symposium sponsored by Age-Friendly University (AFU) Interest Group.
Creating an AFU Learning Community Group to Combat Ageism
Authors: Andreoletti Carrie , June Andrea
Published: December 2020

Central Connecticut State University, a regional public university, joined the AFU global network in 2017. Through efforts to teach people what it means to be an AFU and infuse the AFU principles and practices into our campus culture, we recognized that our work must also include educating our faculty colleagues, staff, and administration about ageism and aging in general. Toward this end, we utilized our Center for Teaching and Faculty Development’s small grant program to develop an AFU learning community group (LCG) that includes faculty, staff, and older learners interested in the AFU movement and how they can contribute to the AFU effort on our campus. This presentation will discuss how we have used the LCG as an opportunity to combat ageism and increase aging literacy by sharing resources such as Ageism First Aid, Reframing Aging, and AARP’s Disrupting Aging classroom. Part of a symposium sponsored by Age-Friendly University (AFU) Interest Group.
Age-Friendly University Models for Engaging With Retired Community Members
Authors: Montepare Joann , Farah Kimberly
Published: December 2020

The pioneering Age-Friendly University (AFU) initiative, endorsed in 2016 by GSA’s Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE), calls for institutions of higher education to respond to shifting demographics and the needs and interests of our aging populations through more age-friendly programs, practices, and partnerships. This symposium will focus on AFU Principle 9 that advocates for engaging actively with an institution’s retired community. Appreciating the diversity of ways in which this principle can be put into practice, participants will discuss the various ways their AFU campuses have built connections with members of their local communities of retired adults. Montepare (Lasell University) will discuss the living and learning model of the institution’s affiliated-retirement community (Lasell Village) that coordinates engagement in 450 credit hours of educational activity as a benefit of residency. Berman (Ithaca College) will discuss the Gerontology Institute’s longstanding relationship with the Longview senior living community and how intergenerational educational and social experiences serve as enriching activities for students, faculty, and residents. Elfenbein (University of North Georgia) will discuss campus collaboration with The Wisdom Project, a community organization of adults 55+ interested in using their skills and talents to benefit their community through action and advocacy projects. Wenrick (Drexel University) will discuss Writers Room, a university-community literary arts program, and their intergenerational co-living initiative, creating a network of homeowners and student tenants whose shared interest in writing and storytelling forms the foundation for meaningful cohabitation.
Cultivating Intergenerational Exchange: An Age-Friendly University Model for Strategic Partnership
Authors: Bergman Elizabeth , Erickson Mary Ann , Taves Jessica Valdez
Published: December 2020

Having recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, the Ithaca College/Longview Partnership is an enduring part of the Ithaca College experience. Longview is a senior living community located just across the street from campus on land donated by the college. A formal partnership has been in place since 1999, which provides a structure of support for various shared services and mutual access to educational and social opportunities for Ithaca College students, faculty, and staff, and Longview residents and staff. This presentation will include a brief overview of the history of the IC/Longview partnership, describe the infrastructure necessary for a successful partnership, and highlight some recent specific, high-impact programs that have made active engagement between Ithaca College and the Longview community possible.
AGHE Program of Merit: Practical and Technical Application Information and Assistance
Authors: Gugliucci Marilyn , Weinreich Donna
Published: December 2020

At a time in education when it is important for programs at colleges and universities to be productive in teaching, student recruitment, and income generation, the AGHE Program of Merit review process can aid in advancing gerontology and health professions programs. The AGHE Program of Merit has expanded its review. Now Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine and all Health Professions program may apply for Program of Merit status.. The POM designation provides gerontology programs and those health professions program that include geriatrics/gerontology content in the curriculum with an AGHE “stamp of approval” which can be used to verify program quality to administrators, to lobby for additional resources, to maintain a quality program, to market the program, and to recruit prospective students into the program. This session will begin with the “Why,” “What” and “How” of applying for Program of Merit and then provide time for small group consultation regarding the Program of Merit application. Preparation of the self-study document will be detailed by the experienced faculty members followed by the review process and timelines associated with application process. Free consultation available!
ESPO/ Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education Section Symposium: Bridging the Gap: Shifting Population Dynamics and Opportunities to Inform and Educate Communities
Authors: Bouchard Lauren , Gugliucci Marilyn
Published: December 2020

This symposium is intended to highlight population-shifts and their impact on the individual, family, institution, and community levels. Currently, increases in diversity among individuals under age 18 continue to outpace those of individuals age 65-and-older, creating a substantial racial/ethnic diversity gap between generations. As it relates to education-level, individuals age 65-and-older who have earned at least a bachelor’s degree has increased from 5 percent in 1965 to 29 percent in 2018 (Population Reference Bureau, 2020). Population-shifts could be mitigated or better supported through enhancements to gerontology/geriatric education and training. This symposium will highlight the biopsychosocial aspects of these shifts and will link each aspect to the development of gerontology and geriatric curriculum. To start, presenter one will describe projects focused on community-based intergenerational programs to reduce social isolation and loneliness among rural older adults (Jill). Next, presenter two will describe findings from a university-based study, using surveys of aging and ageist attitudes to foster intergenerational connections between undergraduate students and older adult community members (Giselle). Presenter three will discuss a program to support the development of aging ministries to educate and support both caregivers and older adults in community settings (Lauren). Finally, presenter four will discuss findings from one-on-one interviews conducted with Chinese caregivers and Chinese geriatric social workers in efforts to develop and evaluate an end-of-life manual designed for Chinese immigrant caregivers (Mandong). The discussant will link the presenters’ findings to implications for future gerontology and geriatric education and training while identifying key topics to inform and engage communities.
Cross-Campus Collaboration
Authors: Oakes Claudia
Published: December 2020

This presentation will describe collaborative efforts on the campus of a mid-sized, private university to carry out activities consistent with the Age-Friendly University philosophy. In one program, staff from Career Services and a faculty member from the Department of Health Science coordinated with the President’s College (a continuing education program for adult learners), the Emeriti Association (a group of retired faculty members), and alumni to offer mock interviews for students preparing for graduate school. In another program, steps were taken to coordinate with the office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion to address Ageism in the Workplace. The presentation will conclude with advice for identifying allies across campus and fostering support for the AFU principles.
Why Intergenerational Connections Matter in Higher Education
Authors: Montepare Joann , Leedahl Skye
Published: December 2020

The Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) has a long and rich history of fostering the commitment of higher education to the field of aging through education, research, and public service. To this end, AGHE members have made innovative and effective use of intergenerational strategies. This presentation will highlight these efforts gleaned from AGHE’s official journal Gerontology and Geriatrics Education and Intergenerational Learning, Research, and Community Engagement interest group (ILRCE), with special attention to intergenerational classroom exchange, service-learning and community activities, and socially-focused undertakings. Contributions to the evaluation of intergenerational programs will also be noted. The presentation will conclude with a discussion of how this work is now helping to shape the Age-Friendly University (AFU) initiative which calls for institutions of higher education to promote intergenerational learning to facilitate the reciprocal sharing of expertise between learners of all ages.
Innovation In Gerontology Education: An Adventure of Grand Ideas and Good Intentions
Authors: Bradley Dana
Published: December 2020

Gerontology educators continually innovated over multiple decades to create a field characterized by its diversity of programs with a variety of structures to meet a wide range of educational experiences. This paper explores the rich history of how innovations emerged and shares insights on how these grand ideas became broadly accepted practice. Since early 1970’s 6 distinct innovations emerge with sticking power, including convergence upon a core intellectual foundation; support of interdisciplinary education; offering internships or practicums; integration of gerontological training with opportunities provided by community/organizational partners, research affiliates, and alumni to foster applied learning experiences in research, policy, and practice; and, development of leadership across and among generations through the Emerging Scholar & Professional Organization (ESPO).
Steering an Age-Friendly University (AFU) Initiative: Insights from Directors of Aging Centers
Authors: Montepare Joann , Farah Kimberly
Published: December 2020

The pioneering Age-Friendly University (AFU) initiative, endorsed in 2016 by GSA’s Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE), calls for institutions of higher education to respond to shifting demographics and the needs of our aging populations through more age-friendly programs, practices, and partnerships. Over 65 institutions have joined the AFU network and adopted the 10 AFU guiding principles. This symposium will feature leaders at AFU campuses representing centers on aging and gerontology programs who will discuss why their institution joined the initiative, their age-friendly campus vision, and their recommendations for mounting an AFU initiative. AFU Director Charness (Florida State University) will describe launching an AFU initiative from the perspective of a state university, with a focus on critical discussion points, the concerns of upper administration, and the timeline for completion of the process. AFU Director Porter (University of Manitoba) will discuss how the Centre on Aging has been using its mandate as a research centre to advance the age-friendly movement through research, knowledge mobilization, training, and partnership initiatives. AFU Director Schumacher (University of Maryland Baltimore County) will talk about how the AFU framework has served as a platform for new and constructive synergies among gerontology programs, centers on aging, health systems, and higher education. AFU Director Gugliucci (University of New England) will discuss strategies for leading health professions education programs within an AFU framework, with special attention to AGHE resources available to support these efforts. Directors of Aging Centers Interest Group Sponsored Symposium.
Evaluating Professional Networks in a Gerontological Pre-Dissertation Initiative Using Social Network Analysis
Authors: Murphy Erin , Mauldin Rebecca , Greenfield Jennifer , Kusmaul Nancy , Fields Noelle , Wladkowski Stephanie , Gibson Allison
Published: December 2020

Professional networks are critical for PhD students and early career faculty, yet there is scant research on the development of their professional networks. Social network analysis is a useful approach to describe the development of professional networks. This methodological paper explains its use and benefits, using a social network analysis of alumni from the first three cohorts of the Association of Gerontological Education in Social Work (AGESW)’s Pre-Dissertation Fellowship Program (PDFP) as an example. We present results, challenges, and recommendations. Alumni (n = 12) reported meeting an average of 20 scholars (SD = 13.2) through AGESW. These professional relationships led to collaborations on conference presentations and manuscripts as well as opportunities to leverage the relationships for future professional needs. Suggested applications of social network analysis for program evaluation, such as co-author and citation networks, are also presented with a focus on training programs designed to support robust professional network development.
The Development of AGHE as a Force in Gerontology Education
Authors: Sterns Harvey
Published: December 2020

This presentation will focus on the history and development of AGHE beginning in 1972. The issues and concerns of early leaders will be reviewed base on articles, books and early publications of the association. There are core issues of gerontology education that continue to be challenges to the present. Significant contributions to these early years will be highlighted. Part of a symposium sponsored by the Geriatric Education Interest Group.
From Association to Academy: Embracing New Opportunities
Authors: Burdick David
Published: December 2020

This presentation will explore the transition from Association to Academy. This transition occurred as GSA governance was also changing, presenting significant challenges on several fronts. While some of these challenges will be considered, the presentation will primarily focus on AGHE’s many emerging opportunities and the steps various AGHE committees are taking to enhance the Academy’s role and relevance and fulfill its mission. The Advancement Committee’s project to assess educational programs across GSA sections, the Age-Friendly University initiative, Ageism First Aide, and other innovative programs moving forward will briefly be noted. Part of a symposium sponsored by the Geriatric Education Interest Group.
Feasibility and Enjoyment of Exercise Video Games in Older Adults
Authors: Freed Sara , Sprague Briana , Ross Lesley
Published: December 2020

Interventions using exercise video games, or exergames, have shown short-term cognitive and physical benefits to older adults, though long-term effects are less promising. Enjoyment of exergames may promote exergame use after the intervention period, though little work has examined older adults’ views of exergames before and after gameplay experience. We invited 20 older adults between 65 and 84 years of age (M=73.30, SD=5.95) to play two Xbox Kinect games, Just Dance and Kinect Sports Rivals, for twenty minutes. In our presentation, we will present qualitative and quantitative findings of this pilot study, including findings that older adults reported that they were not likely to play similar exergames in the future and that they did not find the exergames to be more fun compared to other ways of exercising. We will discuss implications for game design and research relevant to game developers, manufacturers, and researchers. Part of a symposium sponsored by Technology and Aging Interest Group.
Vision and Hearing Impairments in Relation to Disability-Free Life Expectancy in People From England and the United States
Authors: Zaninotto Paola , Gessa Giorgio Di , Head Jenny
Published: December 2020

Both hearing and vision impairments are some of the most common deficits experienced by older adults. We examined the impact of self-reported vision and hearing impairments on disability-free life expectancy (DFLE). We used harmonized data from the Gateway to Global Aging Data from the US Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). We used discrete-time multistate life table models to estimate disability-free life expectancy by sex, age and country. In both countries and at all ages either vision or hearing impairment was associated with shorter DFLE compared to those who reported no impairments. Reporting both vision and hearing impairments reduced DFLE. For example, at the age of 50, men and women with both vision and hearing impairments could expect to live up to 12 fewer years free from disability compared with men and women with no impairments, similar results were found in both countries.
Gender Matters in the Receipt of Informal Care in Later Life: A Cross-National Comparison Across the USA, Korea, and China
Authors: Kwak Minyoung , Kim BoRin , Lee Hyunjoo , Zhang Jiaan
Published: December 2020

This study compares patterns of gender difference in the receipt of informal care among community-dwelling older adults across the United States, Korea, and China. Data came from the 2014 HRS, the 2014 KLoSA, and the 2015 CHARLS. Logistic regression models were used to predict the receipt of informal care by gender. We also examined how the effects of health and living arrangement on the receipt of informal care differ depending on gender. In the United States and China, older women were more likely to receive informal care than men. However, older Korean women were less likely to receive informal care than men. The effects of health and living arrangement on the use of informal care were moderated by gender in different ways across countries. Discussions include implications for practice and policy to reduce the gender gap in the receipt of informal care.
Social Exclusion in Health and Social Services Offered to Minority Patients: Do Racialization and Racism Play Roles?
Authors: Torres Sandra
Published: December 2020

Cultural and ethnic differences stemming from migration are a source of social exclusion in old age. This topic is of concern in part because an increased migration flow coupled with growing anti-immigrants sentiments in much of the Western world can ignite social exclusion mechanisms even when unintended. Given these trends, we ask whether racism figures in research on ethno-cultural and racial older minorities. Thus, based on a scoping review of peer-reviewed articles published between 1998-2017 (n=336), this presentation asks if, and how, racialization and racism inform this research. In answering these questions, this presentation will argue that the role that racism plays as a social exclusion mechanism that affects older ethnic and racial minorities needs to be studied in a systematic fashion. Part of a symposium sponsored by the International Aging and Migration Interest Group.
Utilizing a Community-Based Partnership to Increase Health Promotion Among Rural Older Adults
Authors: Ford Cassandra , Crowther Martha , Barron Keri , Kelley Mary Ann
Published: December 2020

Older adults living in rural communities often encounter health disparities related to chronic conditions and access to care. In an effort to address these disparities, a community-based program focused on health promotion and education was implemented with community dwelling, rural, African American older adults. We partnered with a local church to provide education regarding health promotion, chronic disease self-management, and support for senior group members (n=32). Program materials were accessed online in order to facilitate sustainability and potential program expansion. Key findings from a qualitative content analysis indicated the majority of participants reported improved engagement in chronic disease management and health promotion activities (i.e., following a healthy diet, monitoring blood pressure, taking medications as prescribed), incorporating health behaviors to prevent the development of co-morbid conditions, and increased client-provider communication. Implications for further research will be discussed and key elements of program implementation such as a continued partnership will be explored.