bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LATENT CLASSES OF FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF PATIENTS RECEIVING PALLIATIVE ONCOLOGY
Authors: Becker Todd , Pitzer Kyle , Bryant Elizabeth , Washington Karla
Published: January 2025

Family caregivers (FCGs) are recognized as the “invisible backbone” of cancer care, where the national median age of new diagnosis is 66 years. Although research on caregiver retention has prioritized examination of the demands placed on FCGs, research on the resources mitigating or exacerbating these demands is limited. Understanding this interplay is key to supporting FCGs’ continued partnership in care provision. Drawing on the job demands–resources model, we aimed to identify latent classes of FCGs of patients receiving palliative oncology by exploring how caregiving burden and resources overlap. As part of an ongoing multisite clinical trial on problem-solving therapy, we recruited 352 FCGs of patients receiving outpatient palliative care. We collected baseline data through established measures on FCGs’ resources (area deprivation index, disposable income, self-rated health, formal education) and caregiving demands (caregiving distance, number of work-related changes, frequency of caregiving). We, then, used these grouping variables to identify latent classes of FCGs. Results indicated that a four-class model provided the best fit (AIC = 5,337.97, BIC = 5,658.66, entropy =.70). These four classes corresponded to shifting combinations of resources and demands: low resources–low demands (12%), low resources–high demands (31%), high resources–low demands (17%), and high resources–high demands (40%). To our knowledge, these results provide the first assessment of distinguishable subgroups of FCGs of patients receiving outpatient palliative oncology by demands and resources. Identification of these subgroups represents a crucial first step toward developing and refining supportive caregiver interventions to facilitate well-being and retention in service of patient care.
IMPLEMENTING ISUPPORT IN UGANDA: A PILOT RCT FOR REDUCING CAREGIVER STRESS
Authors: Gumikiriza Joy Louise , Lwere Kamada
Published: January 2025

Background: Dementia is a significant public health issue in low- and middle-income countries, and Uganda has seen a notable increase in cases. The iSUPPORT program, adapted into AiSUPPORT, provides tailored interventions that address the sociocultural and economic context of Uganda, aiming to alleviate psychological distress among caregivers of patients with AD and dementia. Methods: This pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted in the Wakiso District, enrolling 65 caregivers of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD) patients. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group that received AiSUPPORT sessions, or a control group that received standard care. This study aimed to assess the feasibility, fidelity, acceptability, and impact of the intervention on caregivers’ psychological distress, quality of life, and depression severity, as measured using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale and other tools. Results: In the intervention group, psychological distress scores reduced significantly, averaging 29.2 to 23.7 (p< 0.001), and depression severity scores dropped from 33.4 to 25.6 (p< 0.001). Quality of life scores improved substantially, from an average of 81.1 to 89.4 (p< 0.001), compared with the control group. The AiSUPPORT program demonstrated effectiveness and cultural appropriateness, with a 95% retention rate and high engagement. Conclusion: The AiSUPPORT program for dementia caregivers in Uganda’s successful implementation in low-resource settings demonstrates its potential. The program’s effectiveness, feasibility, and cultural sensitivity underscore the importance of cultural considerations in intervention design, supporting the integration of culturally adapted evidence-based interventions in national health systems to address the complex needs of dementia caregivers.
DOES EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT IMPROVE COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING OF OLDER TRIBAL POPULATION IN INDIA?
Authors: Kumari Neha , Saikia Nandita
Published: January 2025

Enhanced cognitive functioning is closely linked with the overall health and well-being of the elderly population. The pivotal role of education in determining cognitive capabilities is widely recognized. Particularly, tribal communities, who often endure vulnerability and marginalization due to limited educational access, predominantly reside in rural Indian regions, magnifying their susceptibility to cognitive decline. Our study delves into the influence of education on cognitive functioning among tribal older adults in India. Our investigation draws on secondary data from the nationally representative Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (2017-18), encompassing 62,322 adults aged 45+ years. We employed continuous assessments of five cognitive domains to gauge cognitive functioning, adapted from the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Linear regression analysis and decomposition analysis unveiled the major associates and contributors of cognitive disparities between tribal and non-tribal cohorts. Regression results revealed significantly lower odds of better cognitive functioning among individuals in the tribal category compared to non-tribal counterparts (Coefficient: -1.33; p < 0.001). Decomposition analysis illuminated that a considerable 77.5% (Coefficient: -2.73; p-value < 0.001) of the divergence attributed to caste-based differences was elucidated by varying characteristics. Addressing the educational chasm between tribal and non-tribal adults could potentially ameliorate cognitive inequity by 39%, while narrowing the rural-urban residence divide could contribute an additional 8% reduction. Notably, among others, the absence of education emerges as a pivotal factor in the cognitive underdevelopment within India’s tribal populace. Tailored educational policies targeted at tribal communities promise to foster cognitive growth and defer cognitive health deterioration.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN LIFELONG SINGLES AND PARTNERED INDIVIDUALS IN PERSONALITY TRAITS AND LIFE SATISFACTION
Authors: Richter David , Stern Julia , Krämer Michael , Schumacher Alexander , MacDonald Geoff
Published: January 2025

Being romantically partnered is widely seen as societal norm, and has been shown to be positively associated with important life outcomes, such as physical and mental health. However, the percentage of singles is steadily increasing, with more people staying single for life. We used the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (N = 77,064 in retirement age from 27 countries) to investigate the Big Five personality traits and life satisfaction in lifelong singles as compared to (previously) partnered individuals. Specification curve analyses suggested that lifelong singles were less extraverted, conscientious, open to experiences, and less satisfied with their lives. Effects were stronger for never partnered than for never cohabitating or never married individuals, and partly moderated by gender, age, country-level singlehood, and gender ratio. Our study provides insights into characteristics of lifelong singles, and has implications for understanding mental health and structures of social support in older individuals.
NIGROSTRIATAL DOPAMINE AND PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE FATIGABILITY IN COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Rosano Caterina , Gay Emma , Coen Paul , Rosso Andrea , Newman Anne , Kritchevsky Stephen , Glynn Nancy
Published: January 2025

Increasing nigrostriatal dopaminergic signaling can ameliorate performance fatigability in healthy young adults, but its role in community-dwelling older adults is not known. We hypothesized higher nigrostriatal dopaminergic integrity would be associated with lower performance fatigability, independent of other factors that impact physical performance fatigability, including cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle energetics. In 125 participants of the Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging (SOMMA), performance fatigability was measured as performance deterioration during a fast-paced 400 meter walk (% slowing down from the 2nd to the 9th lap, higher = more performance deterioration). Nigrostriatal DA integrity was measured using (+)-[11C]dihydrotetrabenazine (DTBZ) PET imaging. The binding signal was obtained separately for the subregions regulating sensorimotor (posterior putamen), reward (ventral striatum) and executive control processes (dorsal striatum). Multivariable linear regression models of performance fatigability (dependent variable) estimated the coefficients of dopamine integrity in striatal subregions (in separate models), adjusted for demographics, cognition, mitochondrial respiration (assayed in muscle biopsies) and cardiorespiratory fitness (via cardiopulmonary exercise testing). In this sample (mean age 75.4±4.0 years, 59% women), mean performance deterioration was 2.5%±4.7%. Higher [11C]-DTBZ binding in the posterior putamen was significantly associated with lower performance fatigability (demographic-adjusted standardized Beta= -1.18, 95% CI:-2.11, -0.25); results remained independent of further adjustment for other covariates, including cognition, cardiorespiratory fitness, and muscle energetics (standardized Beta= -1.03, 95% CI:-2.02, -0.10). Association with other striatal subregions were not significant. Dopaminergic integrity in the sensorimotor striatum may influence performance fatigability in older adults regardless of clinically overt diseases, and independent of other aging systems.
UNVEILING ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN THE WORK-RELATED AND LEISURE-TIME PHYSICAL ACTIVITY WITH BIOLOGICAL AGE
Authors: Hu Mingyue
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the association and dose-relationship between different intensities of work-related and leisure-time physical activity (PA) and biological age (BA). Design: A cross-sectional study. Setting and participants: We used data of 5,216 participants aged 45 and over in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES). Measurements: PA was self-reported using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ), and BAs were calculated by the PhenoAge and Klemera-Doubal method (KDM). In the analyses, survey-weighted generalized linear models were used to explore associations between PA and BAs. Restricted cubic spline characterized the dose-response relationship of PA and BAs. Subgroup analyses were conducted by age, sex, and ethnicity.

Results

Work-related light-intensity PA (LPA) was significantly associated with younger PhenoAge (β=0.507, 95%CI: -0.957, -0.056, p = 0.031) and KDM (β=0.908, 95%CI: -1.774, -0.042, p = 0.042). There was a U-shaped dose-response relationship between LPA and BAs (all p < 0.05). Leisure-time moderate-intensity PA (MPA) was associated with younger PhenoAge (β=0.789, 95%CI: -1.573, -0.006, p=0.049) and KDM (β=1.910, 95%CI: -3.417, -0.402, p = 0.017). There was a U-shaped dose-response relationship between MPA and BAs (all p < 0.05). In subgroup analyses for older adults, all intensities of PA were significantly associated with decreased BAs (all p < 0.05). Conclusions: Doing PA could delay the BAs, specifically the work-related LPA and leisure-time MPA. Older adults can benefit from all intensities of PA regardless of the PA of different environments and intensities.
DAILY ASSOCIATIONS OF ACTIGRAPHIC SLEEP AND NEXT-DAY WORKING MEMORY IN MIDLIFE AND OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Master Lindsay , Buxton Orfeu , Allan Alexa , Fine Courtney , Mogle Jacqueline , Zonderman Alan , Evans Michele , Gamaldo Alyssa
Published: January 2025

This study evaluates the day-to-day associations between actigraphic nighttime sleep and next day working memory in a sample of diverse midlife and older adults. The study used a subsample of the HANDLSleep Study which provided complete information of the variables of interest. Preliminary data from wave 5 (2022-current, n=104, 72% female, 55% Black adults, mean age: 62) were collected via a wrist-worn accelerometer and daily mobile phone cognitive tasks over one week, from which nighttime sleep measures and next-day working memory outcomes were derived. Multilevel linear models tested within-person associations of nightly sleep duration, timing, and quality with next-day mean reaction time calculated from the Multiple Object Tracking (MOT) Task via a mobile device, which evaluates working memory. Analyses were stratified by poverty status (above/below 125% federal poverty line) and adjusted for age, sex, race, WRAT3 literacy scores, average sleep measures, and weekend/weekday. Within individuals who live below the poverty line (n=47), on nights when participants fell asleep earlier (p=.013) and slept longer (p=.021) but had more minutes of wake (p=.0013) and less efficient sleep (p=.018) than their average, next-day mean reaction time was faster. Sleep measures were not associated with next-day working memory for individuals who live equal/above the poverty line. Our results demonstrate that within-person improvements to nightly sleep timing and duration may help next-day reaction time on working memory in adults who live below the poverty line.
ASSOCIATIONS OF MEAN AND VARIABILITY OF ACTIGRAPHIC SLEEP AND GENERAL COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE
Authors: Ji Linying , Shen Yuqi , Buxton Orfeu , Beydoun May , Zonderman Alan , Evans Michele , Gamaldo Alyssa
Published: January 2025

Sleep health is associated with cognitive function in midlife and older adults. Little research investigated the relationship between cognitive performance and variability, in addition to mean sleep measures. Using a subsample HANDLSleep study (n=81; 72% female, 52% Black adults; age range: 46-81), this study examined the cross-sectional relationship between cognitive function and both variability and mean sleep with a Bayesian variability model. Cognitive function was measured using Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Sleep measures were estimated using one week of wrist actigraphy (mean ± SD = 6.8 ± 0.4 day), including nighttime sleep time (TST), wake after sleep onset (WASO), nighttime sleep midpoint (Timing), Sleep maintenance efficiency (SMEff), and nap minutes (NAP). All models controlled for age, race, sex, WRAT3 literacy scores, and poverty status. Results showed that more variability in sleep Timing (b = -2.75, CI [-5.18, -0.45], p = 0.02) and longer mean nap minutes (b = -3.58, CI [-6.52, -0.93], p = 0.006) were associated with worse cognitive performance (lower MoCA score). No significant associations were observed for TST, WASO, SMEff and MoCA. Findings suggest the importance of considering both variability and mean sleep measures in understanding how sleep relates to cognitive function in middle-age and older adults.
SUSTAINABLE DEMENTIA CARE: CLINICAL, PROGRAMMATIC, AND PUBLIC HEALTH PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Gaugler Joseph , Johnson Elma , Gitlin Laura
Published: January 2025

When considering the dissemination and implementation of evidence-based innovations in aging, sustainability is a driving concern but understudied outcome. Sustainability refers to “is the extent to which a newly implemented intervention is maintained or institutionalized within a service setting’s ongoing, stable operations” (Lewis et al., 2017). Although attention in dementia care is beginning to pivot to issues related to successful dissemination and implementation of a growing number of evidence-based innovations, concerns related to the maintenance of long-term care adoption of dementia care interventions in clinical, community, and public health contexts remain pressing. Beyond dementia care and in the broader field of implementation science, available research on sustainability is limited with challenges ranging from heterogeneity in definitions, measurement, follow-up periods and similar issues. The objective of this symposium is to initiate a scientific and practice agenda as it relates to sustainability for dementia care interventions. We will feature presentations on dementia care sustainability from public health, community, clinical, and scientific perspectives. Following this symposium, we aim to establish a framework to better achieve sustainability of evidence-based and evidence-informed dementia care innovations across key settings and communities.
SUSTAINABILITY OF COMPREHENSIVE DEMENTIA CARE INTERVENTIONS FROM A CLINICAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Epstein-Lubow Gary , Tambor Ellen , Johnson Maddie , Haggerty Kristin Lees , Stoeckle Rebecca
Published: January 2025

Multiple evidence-based comprehensive dementia care programs are currently available for adoption by healthcare systems and providers. However, barriers to adoption and long-term sustainability remain. The need for effective payment policies to incentivize implementation of comprehensive dementia care has long been recognized and the recently announced Center for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) Guiding an Improved Dementia Care Experience (GUIDE) Model is an important step forward in improving access to comprehensive dementia care for Medicare beneficiaries and family caregivers. The GUIDE Model seeks to confirm that comprehensive dementia care can be widely implemented without raising health care costs. Similar work is needed under Medicare Advantage and other health plans. The National Dementia Care Collaborative (NDCC) seeks to accelerate dissemination of six effective comprehensive dementia care programs. The NDCC provides a forum for addressing barriers to adopting and sustaining comprehensive dementia care and seeks to promote that GUIDE Model participants use at least one evidence-based program. Existing evidence-based dementia care models, developed and tested within large health systems and academic medical centers, are now demonstrating ability to adapt to the characteristics of diverse service-delivery organizations leading to widespread adoption and sustainability. To succeed, one high priority is expanding the dementia care workforce to deliver high quality, comprehensive dementia care. Also essential is consensus on a core set of metrics for monitoring the quality and fidelity of comprehensive dementia care.
STROKE PREVENTION EDUCATION IN AFRICAN AMERICANS: A COMMUNITY-BASED PARTICIPATORY FEASIBILITY STUDY
Authors: Hadidi Niloufar , Jones Clarence , Taylor Zachary , Gorzycki Emily , Pasdo Allison , Gurvich Olga , Everson-Rose Susan
Published: January 2025

Research aim

To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a Stroke Champion “train-the-trainer” program to support implementation of stroke prevention education among African Americans (AA) residing in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. Significance: AAs are fifty percent more likely to experience stroke than Whites. This disparity is partially attributed to higher prevalence of modifiable stroke risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity among AA communities. Training community members to disseminate health information is an evidence-based, community-specific health promotion strategy. Stroke Champions - individuals from the community with a desire to help improve the health of their community – could be trained and empowered to deliver stroke recognition and prevention education to peers.

Methods

Twelve AA Stroke Champions were recruited to assess the feasibility of educating community on 1) stroke warning signs and risk factors; and 2) strategies to mitigate stroke risk factors. A one arm pre-post-test design was used. Findings: We successfully developed and implemented a stroke education website for community education. Stroke Champions reported the website was helpful, easy to use, and a valuable health information resource They stated that they needed more support from the research team to deliver the education to peers in the community.

Conclusion

Engaging Stroke Champions is potentially beneficial in increasing stroke prevention knowledge. However, Stroke Champions need more knowledge and facilitation support from the research team to effectively engage and educate peers. Implication: Community engagement is an important way to empower individuals to take charge of their health and reduce stroke burden.
A PUBLIC AWARENESS MESSAGE TO DISRUPT AGEISM AND PREVENT ELDER ABUSE
Authors: Marrs Sarah
Published: January 2025

To date, much of the research on elder mistreatment has focused on achieving improved skills for recognizing, screening for, and reporting abuse that has already occurred, typically considered secondary prevention. Knowing how to recognize when abuse has occurred is indeed critical for effective and timely intervention. However, engaging in efforts that challenge how we as a society perceive aging and older adults is an important and necessary primary prevention strategy, which targets stopping abuse from occurring in the first place by focusing on the source of abuse, such as underlying beliefs or attitudes. Given the linkages between ageism and abuse, our team has engaged in public education and awareness campaigns aimed at changing the narrative we as individuals associate with aging and older adults. In this multimedia presentation, we will begin by briefly discussing the link between ageism (both individual and structural) and elder abuse, citing current scientific literature as well as our own research, and how this led to our receipt of funding from the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to conduct innovative elder justice training and research. Then, we will briefly discuss the methods and evaluation feedback for one small component of this work, an ageism and abuse public awareness video. Specifically, we will highlight the methods (i.e., qualitative data collected, literature reviewed) that informed the creation of the video, present the video, and then share the feedback we have collected as part of our overall project evaluation activities.
THE STARTING A TESTOSTERONE AND EXERCISE PROGRAM AFTER HIP INJURY (STEP-HI) TRIAL: STUDY RESULTS AND IMPLICATIONS
Authors: Binder Ellen , Kiel Douglas
Published: January 2025

Hip fractures are common among older women and can have a devastating impact on their ability to remain independent. Many women who were high functioning before the hip fracture do not return to their pre-fracture level of function, have persistent weakness and mobility impairments, and may require ongoing supportive services. Age-associated androgen deficiency may contribute to deficits in muscle mass, strength and power that are common in older female hip fracture patients. The typical approach to hip fracture rehabilitation routinely includes a limited course of physical therapy but the precise role of exercise and the use of an anabolic therapy like testosterone has not been determined. The Starting a Testosterone and Exercise Program after Hip Injury (STEP-HI) Study is a three-group, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled Phase III clinical trial that was conducted at 8 clinical sites in the USA. The trial was designed to evaluate a multi-modal intervention aimed at improving functional outcomes in older female hip fracture patients with persistent mobility impairment. 129 female hip fracture patients, age 65 yrs. and older were randomly assigned to one of three groups: supervised exercise plus 1% testosterone topical gel (EX+T); supervised exercise plus placebo gel (EX+P); or Enhanced Usual Care (EUC). This symposium will present the results of the trial, including recruitment and retention, primary and secondary outcome measures. The program will also address strategies to ensure fidelity with exercise in a multicenter study like STEP-HI. Implications of study findings for future research and clinical practice will be discussed.
SOCIAL ISOLATION, LONELINESS, AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AMONG OLDER ADULTS: THE MODERATING EFFECT OF RESILIENCE
Authors: Li Ke , Tang Fengyan , Albert Steven , Rauktis Mary , Ohmer Mary
Published: January 2025

Social isolation has been recognized as a social problem with negative health consequences. Using data from three waves of the Health and Retirement Study, this study aimed to examine the long-term impact of social isolation on loneliness and depressive symptoms and to explore the moderating effect of resilience. This study comprised 3,681 U.S. adults aged 60 and older at the baseline wave. Social isolation index was constructed using five indicators, including not married or cohabitating with a partner, no social participation, and less than monthly contacts with children, family members, or friends. Loneliness was measured by the UCLA loneliness scale and depressive symptoms were measured by the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression scale (CES-D). The moderator of resilience was assessed by the simplified resilience score (SRS). Latent growth curve models with robust standard errors were estimated. The results of latent growth curve models showed that social isolation was significantly associated with more initial loneliness and depressive symptoms. However, social isolation was associated with a slower increasing rate of loneliness, but no significant relationship with the change rate of depressive symptoms. Furthermore, resilience significantly buffered the negative effect of social isolation on the initial level of depressive symptoms. The findings underscore the importance of enacting strategies and interventions targeting resilience to address social isolation and its negative consequences among older adults.
ENHANCING DIGNITY IN DEMENTIA CARE IN BRAZIL: A CAREGIVER REMOTE 4MS FRAMEWORK APPLICATION FOR MOBILITY SOLUTIONS
Authors: Heyn Patricia
Published: January 2025

This abstract describes a case study based on the personal experience of an Alzheimer’s researcher who unexpectedly turned into a caregiver and crafted a novel care paradigm for her father with dementia living in a nursing home in Brazil. Confronting Brazil’s traditional care models, which often exacerbate frailty by confining older adults to wheelchairs, she championed the Age-Friendly Health Systems movement and its core 4Ms framework—Medication, Mobility, Mentation, and What Matters the Most. This personalized approach, advocating for autonomy rather than restraint, sparked a systemic shift toward recognizing and nurturing the functional capabilities of older adults with dementia. Implementing this framework virtually, we are capable of training a caregiver remotely through WhatsApp to deliver tailored physical and cognitive exercises for a physically restrained person with dementia, demonstrating the feasibility of technology-facilitated caregiving. This intervention led to significant functional improvements: the transition from wheelchair to walker, then to cane, and finally, to unassisted ambulation, and improved strength and walking speed within a year. Highlighting this success, the presentation will discuss the transformative influence of the Aging Friendly 4Ms framework on person-centered geriatric care in an international context and the potent role of technology in maintaining family engagement and oversight in caregiving quality from afar. This case underscores the necessity of personalized care that regenerates and maintains active mobility, ultimately preserving the dignity, independence, and quality of life for older adults with dementia in underdeveloped institutional settings.
CHANGES IN THE AGING POLICY LANDSCAPE SINCE 2020: HITS AND MISSES
Authors: Lipson Debra , Bishop Christine
Published: January 2025

Despite deep political divisions after the 2020 election, Congress passed several major statutes to address the acute economic and health fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, including provisions that helped older adults cover large and unexpected health care costs and expanded access to home and community-based care (HCBS). States used federal funds disbursed under these statutes to strengthen the long-term services and supports (LTSS) system and respond to the COVID-19 health emergency. But as the pandemic faded into the distance, so did the impetus to address the fundamental problems that pose the greatest long-term risk to the health and economic security of older adults. This paper reviews major legislative and regulatory initiatives adopted at the federal and state level since 2020 to improve the economic security of low-income older adults, expand Medicare and Medicaid coverage, strengthen nursing home quality and the direct care workforce, increase access to HCBS, and provide greater support to family caregivers. Despite these achievements, progress has been incremental. Little has been done to fix flaws in Medicare and Social Security financing, and policymakers have yet to address LTSS financing, all of which pose major threats to the long-term financial wellbeing of older adults and their families. These issues belong at the top of the aging policy agenda and urgently call for action by the next Administration, Congress, and state and local governments.
RACE, NEIGHBORHOOD DYNAMICS, AND MORTALITY PATTERNS IN OLDER PUERTO RICANS
Authors: García Catherine , Aranda Maria , Crowe Michael
Published: January 2025

This study explores the relationships between race, neighborhoods, and mortality among older Puerto Ricans, drawing upon theoretical frameworks in sociology, gerontology, and public health. We combined data from the longitudinal Puerto Rican Elderly Health Conditions Project (PREHCO; 2002-2021) and the Puerto Rico Contextual Data Resource (PR-CDR) to examine how the relationships between racial identity, neighborhood-level racial density, and neighborhood-level socioeconomic status are related to the probability of experiencing all-cause mortality among island-dwelling Puerto Ricans aged 60 and older (n=4,243). Findings show that young-old Black Puerto Ricans residing in high socioeconomic neighborhoods have a lower risk of mortality relative to their same aged Black counterparts residing in low socioeconomic neighborhoods, and White Puerto Ricans who reside in either high or low socioeconomic neighborhoods. However, this mortality advantage diminishes when they reach the age of 75 years and over. We hypothesize that in Puerto Rico, Black communities with access to economic capital are especially beneficial for its residents as they are in spaces where they feel welcomed and are surrounded by amenities that are essential for healthy aging or survival into old age. As Puerto Ricans in these communities age, this advantage may diminish, due to a ceiling effect, meaning that for older Puerto Ricans who survive to age 60 in these communities, there are fewer advantages to accumulate. Our research provides a foundation for informed policy decisions and targeted interventions to promote aging in place in Puerto Rico and offers a framework for understanding similar dynamics in diverse Latin American contexts.
REFRAMING GEROSCIENCE TO IMPROVE OUTCOMES IN PEOPLE LIVING WITH CHRONIC INFECTION
Authors: Montano Monty
Published: January 2025

This talk will highlight recent advancements in aging science as applied to individuals living with chronic conditions associated with infections, such as HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2. The discussion will focus on aging biomarkers and health trajectories in individuals with chronic morbidities related to infection. Additionally, the talk will address the importance of considering both physiological and holistic outcomes, taking into account allostatic load and the life history of stressors, both biological and psychosocial in strategies designed to improve quality of life.
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF AGING RESEARCH: A CHAT WITH NIA SENIOR LEADERSHIP
Authors: Kelley Amy , Kelley Amy
Published: January 2025

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) at the National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, is the federally designated lead agency on aging research and supports research to understand the nature of aging and to extend the healthy, active years of life. 2024 marks NIA’s 50th anniversary, a milestone which prompts reflection on both past and present discoveries resulting from NIA-funded research. In the decades since its establishment, NIA has propelled advances across multiple domains of aging research, including basic, clinical, neuroscience, and behavioral and social research. Looking to the future, NIA seeks to drive further advances in these areas – with input on strategic priorities from investigators, advocates, and the public – to enable healthier aging for all. This symposium will provide a forum for exploration of NIA-funded research advances, as well as current and future research priorities of NIA’s scientific divisions, and review of the NIA budget and its implications for the research community. A question-and-answer session with NIA senior staff will follow these remarks.
FEASIBILITY AND MECHANISM ENGAGEMENT OF A MINDFULNESS MOBILE APP FOR CAREGIVERS: FINDINGS FROM AN NIH STAGE 1B TRIAL
Authors: Plys Evan , Woodworth Emily , Seward Morgan , Allen Elizabeth , Carroll Isabella , Huberty Jen , Vranceanu Ana-Maria
Published: January 2025

A large body of research has tested psychological interventions with dementia caregivers. Yet, this literature still lacks clear understanding of mechanisms of action for psychological outcomes. This NIH Stage 1B study tested the feasibility and mechanism engagement of a theory-based mindfulness mobile-app (Healthy Minds Program [HMP]) for stress, depression, and anxiety among caregivers; mindfulness skill was the proposed mechanism for each outcome. Stressed caregivers were randomized to HMP (n=40) or a podcast control (n=40). Groups did not vary by age, gender, race, or caregiver type. Among all participants (N=80), benchmarks were met for recruitment (90% eligible caregivers enrolled), data collection (98% with no questionnaires fully missing), and attrition (95% completed post-tests). For caregivers completing HMP, benchmarks were met for treatment satisfaction and credibility, but not for expectancy or adherence (63% completed 52.5 minutes weekly). Using Wilcoxon signed-rank/paired-samples t-tests, caregivers receiving HMP evidenced significant within-group improvements in mindfulness (Applied Mindfulness Process Scale; Cohen’s d=1.16). Significant within-group differences were observed for stress (Perceived Stress Scale; Cohen’s d=.91), depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS]; Cliff’s delta=.34), and anxiety (HADS; Cohen’s d=.78). Change in mindfulness significantly related with change in stress (r=.38), depression (r=.42), anxiety (r=.33). Findings suggest the HMP mobile-app was feasible and led to moderate to large within-group effects for mindfulness and clinical outcomes among caregivers. Moderate correlations between change scores confirmed the conceptual model with mindfulness as a proposed mechanism of action. We discuss protocol refinements (e.g., changes to dose for mobile-app) and preparation for a Stage 2 efficacy trial.
ADDRESSING STRESS AMONG CAREGIVERS OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA (PLWD) WITH BEHAVIORAL SYMPTOMS
Authors: Vranceanu Ana-Maria , Santiago Natalia Giraldo , O’Donnel Arden , Ritchie Christine
Published: January 2025

Current stress management interventions for caregivers of PLWD are primarily focused on providing support or education targeting general caregiver stress. Here we showcase the development and refinement of MASC, a theoretically informed program that integrates emotional regulation skills (mindfulness, compassion and self-compassion) with practical strategies to manage stress from challenging behavioral symptoms in PLWD. First, we report on a mixed methods study (N=24 caregivers who endorse stress from PLWD’s behavioral symptoms; NIH stage 1A). Qualitative analyses provided a nuanced understanding of caregiver stress, highlighted the need for MASC, and showcased opportunities for tailoring of skills, program format and content. Quantitative analyses supported the need for the program and our theoretically informed conceptual model. Next, we report on an open pilot with exit interviews (N=10 caregivers; 2 groups; NIH stage 1A). MASC was feasible and acceptable (89% of eligible caregivers agreed to participate; 92% attended > 4/6 sessions; 70% reported at least moderate program satisfaction). Across the entire sample participation in MASC was associated with improvement in outcomes (stress, depression, and quality of life; ES=.3-.6) and mechanisms (self-compassion, compassion, and mindfulness; ES=.2-.7). Change in mechanisms was associated with change in outcomes, consistent with our conceptual model. Exit interviews supported the quantitative findings and provided recommendations for refinement and improvement. An NIH stage 1B pilot RCT of the refined MASC and protocol is ongoing. Integration of the Science of Behavior Change with the NIH stage model throughout this work will be detailed.
INTRODUCING “X-VERSITY” THEORY: EXPERIENTIAL DIVERSITY IN DAILY LIFE AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR HEALTHY AGING
Authors: Koffer Rachel , Lee Soomi , Drewelies Johanna
Published: January 2025

Lifespan developmental theories highlight that aging is characterized by gains and losses across different domains (e.g., social, emotional, physical, cognitive). Such gains and losses translate into aging-related change in experiences across various facets of daily life. However, much of present theory and empirical evidence has focused on overall quantity of experiences (e.g., total number of social activities) rather than how such experiences are spread across different types (e.g., whether a person spends relatively more of their time in one social activity compared to other activities). This presentation introduces the X-versity theory, in which we propose that experiential diversity (X-versity), conceptualized as rich and balanced experiences, is an important component of healthy and resilient aging. We present a conceptual framework that demonstrates the theoretical underpinnings associating person-environment interactions with differences in X-versity, and links X-versity with aging-related outcomes. Empirical evidence representing scientific advances in this field is then presented, particularly within the domains of activity, stressor, and emotion diversity. The empirical evidence will be used to demonstrate associations within the conceptual framework, and how diversity of experiences declines with age. We further provide methodological (e.g., quantification, measurement, timescales), theoretical (e.g., moderators, cross-domain considerations, contexts of ontogenetic and sociohistorical change processes) considerations for future studies of experiential diversity beyond the daily domains. X-versity theory provides a theoretical leap in lifespan socioemotional aging, taking advantage of rich categorical data measured in many studies of daily life, and allowing for more nuanced consideration of the role of diverse experiences for healthy aging.
ENHANCING HOME-BASED CARE WITH ASSISTIVE ROBOTS: ACCEPTANCE AND PREFERENCES OF OLDER CHINESE
Authors: Wang Yilin , Chen Hongxiu , Hu Xiuying , Qi Yan
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to assess the acceptance and preferences of the older Chinese towards assistive robots, focusing on their potential to aid in mobility, provide emergency response, and monitor daily activities. A structured survey questionnaire was distributed to evaluate their difficulties in daily activities, the use and expenditure on current eldercare assistive devices, and their interest in and concerns regarding assistive robots. Among 109 who responded, 85 were valid. More than half were over age 75, including those aged between 75 and 84 years old (37.7%) and those aged 85 and above (30.6%). Participants reported a strong interest in assistive robots with mobility aid, emergency response, and daily activity monitoring. As most of the care is provided at home (96.5%), significant difficulties were reported in activities such as stair navigation (67.1%), outdoor transportation (63.5%), bathing (55.3%), and toileting (47.1%). Canes (69.4%) and wheelchairs (60%) were the most used eldercare assistive devices, with expenditures mostly below 5,000 Chinese RMB (50.7%). Safety (81.2%) and ease of use (61.2%) were the primary considerations. Approximately 60% of respondents prioritized mobility assistance, while around 40% valued the ability of robots to provide companionship. Despite the interest in assistive robots, concerns over cost and the need for user-friendly interfaces were highlighted as potential barriers to adoption. The study underscores the potential of assistive robots in elder care, particularly in enhancing mobility and ensuring safety. To facilitate wider adoption, it is crucial to ensure that these technologies are affordable and accessible.
RESEARCH ON AGING: THE INTERNATIONAL VIEW FROM THE EDITORS’ DESKS
Authors: Kim Kyungmin , Burr Jeffrey , Stokes Jeffrey , Peng Changmin
Published: January 2025

We review the scope, content, and focus of the peer-reviewed journal, Research on Aging (SAGE), publishing its 46th volume this year. We will discuss how scholarship produced from researchers around the globe has changed over the years. Data on submissions, acceptance rates, and the important role of an international editorial board will be presented. The review process will be described, along with suggestions on how to increase chances of success when submitting original research. Although Research on Aging is sometimes considered to focus primarily on social gerontology, the scope in recent years has widened considerably, with manuscripts in aging studies published from such fields as economics, psychology, demography, public health, and public policy, as well as from sociology, and social work, among others. One of several special issues forthcoming in the journal will be described to demonstrate the possibilities for international impact.
THE JOURNAL OF APPLIED GERONTOLOGY: AN INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Dobbs Debra
Published: January 2025

The mission of applied gerontology is to bridge science and practice to benefit the health and well-being of older people, their families, their communities, and other contexts. Journal of Applied Gerontology features original investigations or meta-analyses/systematic reviews with significant clinical, policy, and/or practice implications. This presentation will provide insights from Journal of Applied Gerontology and its commitment to publish and disseminate scholarship with international application. Following an overview of the growing internationalization of peer-reviewed submissions to Journal of Applied Gerontology on a variety of topics and from a range of perspectives, the presentation will highlight opportunities to apply gerontological scholarship to aging contexts worldwide. Concluding comments will examine how outlets for dissemination and authors themselves can better position their work to enhance their influence on aging in an international context.
SLEEP QUALITY AND DURATION AND RISK OF FALLS IN OLDER ADULT WOMEN: THE STUDY OF WOMEN’S HEALTH ACROSS THE NATION (SWAN)
Authors: Baker Jillian , Hood Michelle , Swanson Leslie , Kline Christopher , Ylitalo Kelly , Cauley Jane , Green Dr Robin , Karvonen-Gutierrez Carrie
Published: January 2025

Background

As the leading cause of injury in American older adults, falls can be consequential for function and mortality, but are preventable. Sleep may be a modifiable risk factor for falls. We hypothesized poorer sleep quality and shorter sleep duration would be associated with increased risk of falls and a greater number of falls.

Methods

The Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation is a multi-ethnic, community-based longitudinal study of women followed through and beyond the menopausal transition. In 2010-2011, participants self-reported measures of sleep quality and duration. In 2015-2016, participants reported number of falls in the year prior. Adjusted models included demographic and socioeconomic factors, and health conditions.

Results

Women who reported frequent (5+ times/week) trouble falling asleep and frequent waking in the middle of the night in 2010-2011 had a 27% (RR=1.27, 95% CI=1.01,1.62) and 24% (RR=1.24, 95% CI=1.01,1.48) increased risk of a subsequent fall. Frequent trouble falling asleep and short sleep duration (< 6 hours) were both associated with higher likelihood of recurrent falls (>=3 falls vs. <=1 fall) (OR=2.54, 95% CI=1.30,4.96; OR=1.80, 95% CI=1.07,3.05). Conclusions: Multiple indicators of poor sleep including trouble falling asleep, frequent waking, and short duration were associated with increased fall burden in older adult women. As falls pose a major risk factor for decline in health and mortality, promoting adequate, high-quality sleep may be an essential component in fall prevention.
EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT EXERCISE INTERVENTION MODALITIES ON BALANCE AND PHYSICAL FUNCTION AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Chen Xiaodong , He Lingxiao , Fang Ya
Published: January 2025

Abstract Objective

To compare the effects of on-site team (OST) exercise and live-streamed home (LSH) exercise model on balance and physical function among community-dwelling older adults. Design, Setting, and Participants: A 24 week, randomized, controlled, assessor blinded trial was conducted from February 25, 2023 to November 30, 2023. Participants were 297 older adults aged 65 years and older from 11 communities across Xiamen, China.

Interventions

Participants were block randomized to OST and LSH groups with multimodal elastic band-based exercise offline and online (n=99), and a control group with no exercise intervention (n=99). Main outcome measures: The primary outcomes were Berg balance scale scores and the short physical performance battery (SPPB). Secondary outcomes were muscle mass, muscle strength (knee extension strength and grip strength), sleep quality, adherence, and adverse events.

Results

Among 297 randomized older adults (mean age, 71.8[SD, 5.5] years; 52.7% female), 280 (93.8%) completed the trial. Both intervention groups showed increase in Berg balance scale scores and SPPB scores relative to control (adjusted mean differences: OST group vs. control, 1.26 [95% CI, 0.74 to 1.79] and 3.76 [95% CI, 2.25 to 5.26]; P< 0.001; LSH group vs. control: 1.00 [95% CI, 0.44 to 1.56] and 3.42 [95% CI, 1.83 to 5.02]; P< 0.001; OST vs. LSH group, 0.261 [95% CI, -0.26 to 0.78] and 0.33 [95% CI, -1.11 to 1.78]; P=0.463 and 0.853). Similar results were seen in terms of muscle strength.

Conclusion

Live-streamed home exercise is an effective approach to improving balance and physical function among older adults.
PROMOTING AND LEVERAGING THE FULL POTENTIAL OF AN AGE-INCLUSIVE WORKFORCE
Authors: Terveer Katy
Published: January 2025

This session will focus on inspiring and informing the audience about how we can reimagine the way we work in order to benefit from the experience, skills, and wisdom of older workers. This session will elaborate on the Harvard Business Review article, “Redesigning Retirement: It’s time for a new deal between employers and older workers” written by the speaker (Katy Terveer) and her co-authors, Ken Dychtwald, PhD, and Bob Morison. We will explore the modern trends that are enabling longer workspans (i.e. the average number of years people spend in the workforce), such as the shift towards knowledge-based and service-based work and greater work flexibility. We will also explore the history of work and aging with an eye towards how ageism is holding us back in today’s workforce and what ageist myths we need to challenge. We will help aging advocates to understand and promote the benefits of increasing our workspans for individuals, employer organizations, and society. Finally, we will look at five key strategies that organizations can leverage to recruit and retain older workers as well as leverage the full potential of an age-inclusive workforce.