bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE ROLE OF S100B IN AEROBIC TRAINING EFFICACY IN OLDER ADULTS WITH MILD VASCULAR COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
Authors: Crockett Rachel A , Barha Cindy , Hsiung Ging-Yuek Robin , Liu-Ambrose Teresa
Published: November 2019

Aerobic training improves cognitive and brain outcomes across different populations and neurocognitive disorders of aging, including mild subcortical ischemic vascular cognitive impairment (SIVCI). However, little is known of the underlying mechanisms through which aerobic training exerts its beneficial effects on the brain. Recently, S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100B) has been proposed as a possible mediator of aerobic training. At low levels, S100B is neurotrophic but at higher levels it is neurotoxic. Elevated levels of S100B have been associated with decreased performance on measures of global cognitive function. Thus, we conducted a secondary analysis of data collected from the proof-of-concept single-blind randomized controlled trial (NCT01027858) in older adults with mild SIVCI to determine whether the beneficial effects of 6-months, thrice weekly, moderate intensity aerobic training on cognitive performance is related to changes in S100B levels. In a subsample of 45 participants, blood samples were collected both before and after trial completion. Global cognitive function was assessed using Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). At trial completion, aerobic training decreased circulating levels of S100B compared with usual care plus education (F(1,41) = 6.673, p = 0.013, ηp2 = 0.140; Figure 1). Furthermore, reduced S100B levels were associated with improved global cognitive function in those who received the aerobic exercise intervention (partial r = -0.519, p = 0.023). Together these findings suggest that S100B is a promising target mediating the beneficial effects of moderate-intensity aerobic training on brain health in older adults with mild SIVCI.
PRESENCE AND PREDICTORS OF FAMILIAL AND NON-FAMILIAL AGE-INTEGRATED SOCIAL NETWORKS
Authors: Roman Carly , Beam Christopher , Zelinski Elizabeth M
Published: November 2019

A growing older adult population living longer provides opportunities for greater age-integration, which includes reducing age-related structural barriers and increasing cross-age interactions (Riley & Riley, 2000). While research on the theoretical construct of age-integration is prevalent, empirical evidence of age-integration in older adults’ social networks is lacking (Hagestad & Uhlenburg, 2005). This study uses the National Health and Aging Trends Study to quantify and characterize age-integrated social networks in the United States, and to understand the sociodemographic predictors of these age-integrated relationships. Participants’ social networks, comprised of respondents’ spouses, household members, children, helpers, care recipients, and up to five individuals they share important things with were considered age-integrated if individuals were at least 10 years younger than the respondent. About 96% of respondents reported at least one person 10+ years younger than them. Further, these relationships were coded as familial (i.e., spouse, children, grandchildren, parents, siblings, and other relatives) and non-familial relationships (i.e., other non-relatives) and analyses predicting age-integrated relationships as a function of sociodemographic characteristics were stratified by relationship type. Weighted multilevel logistic regression analyses suggest that females have lower odds of familial and non-familial age-integration than males; compared to white and married individuals, Black and Hispanic individuals have greater odds of familial and non-familial age-integration; compared to married individuals, separated, divorced, and widowed individuals have greater odds of familial age-integration, and those who were never married have greater odds of non-familial age-integration. This foundational study reveals that sociodemographic factors differentially predict familial and non-familial age-integrated social networks.
INITIATION OF INTERACTION AS THE BEGINNING OF SOCIAL PARTICIPATION: CONVERSATION ANALYSIS OF A JAPANESE SENIOR CLUB
Authors: Sakai Eri , Kamesawa Akihiko , Nakayama Riko , Kim Jihoon , Yuri Akizuki , Yang Yingxue , Ogino Ryogo , Goto Jun
Published: November 2019

The rate of social participation of senior citizens in a senior club’s activities is not equal to the rate of desire for the said participation. Earlier studies mainly examined personal and social factors which influence the participation rate, overlooking the practical methods by which senior citizens can overcome barriers to participating in club activities. Our study aims to clarify the features of a club activity as a resource by analyzing the activity’s interactions. Our study is based on data extracted from videotaped recordings of a senior calligraphy club in Kanto, Japan. In September 2018, one lecturer and 11 participants were videotaped for 3 hours, and the video underwent conversation analysis, which elucidates how people organize activities under specific circumstances. We analyzed how a female newcomer to the activity initiated face-to-face interaction, which is considered the first step of social participation. She talked to other participants who were familiar with the exercise several times by inquiring how to read kanjis on teaching materials. These findings suggest that visualization of skill relative to the other creates an environment for initiating face-to-face interaction. In this case, the newcomer utilized the difference in skill denoted by teaching materials and was given the rational reason to talk to the others already engaging in the activity. Therefore, designing teaching materials that assign the learning level of each participant may be effective in promoting social participation in senior study clubs.
#GERIATRICS: A 7-YEAR TWITTER ANALYSIS
Authors: Parker Brenna M , Walker Megan , Ross Jeanette
Published: November 2019

The use of social media platforms as an educational tool to promote awareness has become increasingly popular as technology advances. Twitter is a microblogging, social media platform in which users share short, text-based posts (“tweets”) that can contain hyperlinked articles, web-pages, pictures, and more. 79% of the 336 million current monthly twitter users are international, suggesting Twitter serves as a tool allowing international connection via the rapid spread of information worldwide. Simplur Signals (Simplur LLC) was used to perform a retrospective analysis of the use of #Geriatrics on Twitter. Data was collected from Oct. 13th, 2010 through Jun. 5th, 2018. Spam and unknown accounts were excluded from the data set before analysis. Manual analysis was performed to qualitatively assess tweet content of the top 200 Retweets by Impressions. A total of 65,002 tweets were shared during the selected time frame. Tweet activity rose to a high in Year 5 (17,206) but has declined since. The majority of the top 100 influencers were doctors (57.4%). Regarding tweet content, most discussions focus on increasing awareness and promoting advocacy (30%) as well as sharing research related to the practice of geriatrics (23.5%). With its widespread use and lack of international boundaries, Twitter serves as an effective platform in informing and increasing awareness about geriatrics and other medical specialties.
AGE DIFFERENCES IN COGNITIVE PERSONAL NETWORKS
Authors: Marcum Christopher S , Lin Jielu , Koehly Laura M
Published: November 2019

Previous research has found a negative association between network size and age, suggesting that people experience greater isolation with advancing age. In this paper, we evaluate age differences in how individuals perceive their social worlds to be structured, rather than focusing solely on network size. A nationally represented sample of respondents (n=1,824) reported on their own ties to their close personal network members (i.e., ego-alter ties) as well as their perceptions of acquaintanceship between those members (i.e., alter-alter ties). We used social network analysis to assess how the structure of these relationships vary by respondent age. We find a positive association between respondent age and personal network size and a negative association between network members’ ages and the number of ties respondents’ perceive their members to have to each other. This effect significantly weakens as respondent age increases. Moreover, we find evidence of age-homophily, intergenerational contact spanning three generations in both ego-alter and alter-alter ties, and age differences in ego network composition. Our results suggest that the evolution of our social worlds across the life course shifts in terms of size and structure. While contemporary close personal networks may grow slightly with age, perceived social ties among one’s network members become less cohesive and less diverse with age. We discuss these results in the context of recent findings that suggest aging uniformly insulates individuals from social contact from both structural and symbolic perspectives.
(OLDER) PEOPLE REMEMBER HOW YOU MAKE THEM FEEL: AGE DIFFERENCES IN THE EFFECTS OF SOCIAL EXCHANGES
Authors: Marello Madeline M , Patrick Julie Hicks , Nehrkorn-Bailey Abigail M
Published: November 2019

Socioemotional Selectivity Theory poses that as we age our motivations transition from knowledge focused to emotionally focused (Carstensen, 1995). This shift to emotional motivation increases the relevance of relationships and social interactions for older adults. We examined different aspects of social support: frequency of positive/negative social interactions, satisfaction with positive social interactions, and bothered by social interactions -- to investigate these effects on one’s global well-being. Negative and positive social exchanges are linked to psychological health (Newsom et al., 2005), however one’s perceptions of those social interactions are important to consider as well -- being satisfied or bothered by social interactions shows a better perspective of the individual’s experience than simply recording frequency. The results of our multi-group path analysis show that there are different effects of social supports on global well-being contingent on age, consistent with socioemotional selectivity theory. For adults under 30 years old (Mage = 24.0, range 18 to 29) social support did not significantly relate to well-being. For adults over 30 and under 50 (Mage = 38.9) frequency of positive social interactions is significantly related to well-being (B = .201). For adults over 50 (Mage = 58.8, range 50 to 87) the perception of social exchanges, not their frequency, are what influence well-being: both satisfaction with positive social interactions (B = .402) and being bothered by negative social interactions predict well-being (B = -.193). It is important to know that older adult’s perceptions of social exchanges effect their well-being, future directions are discussed.
FEELING AND LIVING WELL: NETWORK COMPOSITION AND PREDICTING SELF-RATED HEALTH FOR RACIAL AND ETHNIC MINORITIES
Authors: Ornelas Eli X
Published: November 2019

Racial and ethnic inequities in health among older adults in the U.S. are well documented. A substantial amount of the health literature focuses on physical and mental disparities; however, less research has examined racial and ethnic differentials in subjective, self-rated health (SRH). Prior research has documented racial and ethnic inequities in SRH, though mechanisms by which these disparities occur are still largely unknown. One potential mechanism by which these disparities may arise is through unequal access to psychosocial resources through variability in social networks. Utilizing data from the 2006 Health and Retirement Study (HRS) along with the 2006 HRS Psychosocial and Lifestyle Questionnaire, the current study seeks to explore racial and ethnic differentials in SRH from a social network perspective. Ordinal logistic regression is used to predict SRH by race and Hispanic ethnicity potentially mediated by possession and number of friends, frequency of contact with friends, and psychosocial and subjective well-being. Results indicate that older black adults are less likely to rate their health in a higher category of SRH than older white adults, and this relationship is not significant for other racial groups and Hispanics. Additionally, psychosocial and subjective well-being and frequent written-communication with friends are found to significantly predict better SRH. The results suggest that feeling well mentally is crucial for SRH, but equally important is regular contact with friends. Further research should employ more robust measures of social networks to elucidate the role that network composition plays in predicting SRH for racial and ethnic minorities.
THREE-YEAR EVALUATION OF THE DETECTION OF ELDER ABUSE THROUGH EMERGENCY CARE TECHNICIANS PROJECT
Authors: Cannell Michael B , Livingston Doug , Parayil Megin
Published: November 2019

EA is difficult to detect and often goes unreported. To address this important public health issue we developed the DETECT screening tool, which assists paramedics and EMT’s (medics) with determining whether or not to report a case of potential EA to APS while in the field providing medical services. In the current study, we investigate the effects of the DETECT screening tool on changes in reports of EA to APS over a period of approximately 3 years (January 2015 to March 2018). We used a differences in differences in differences (DDD) design to estimate the effect of the DETECT tool on both the number of reports for EA reports made each week as well as the probability of a report being validated by APS. After adjusting for changes in the number of EA reports non-medics and medics outside the service area, there were on average three times as many reports among medics after the implementation of the DETECT screening tool (RR=3.03, 95% CI:[2.06, 4.46]). No differences were seen in the probability of a valid report attributable to DETECT.
NAVIGATIONAL BARRIERS TO ADVANCE DIRECTIVE COMPLETION AMONG OLDER LATINOS WITH CHRONIC ILLNESS
Authors: Nedjat-Haiem Frances R
Published: November 2019

This study examined navigational barriers to advance care planning (ACP) and advance directive (AD) completion among older Latinos with chronic illness. Older Latinos over the age of 50 were randomized to education only versus education plus counseling (N=61; education only n=31, education/counseling n=30). Exploratory factor analyses and logistic regression show relationships between navigational barriers, depression, anxiety and AD documentation. Barriers to ACP included difficulty understanding the doctor, fears about hearing bad news, worries about illness getting worse, and difficulties due to language, family conflict, and limited family discussions about dying. Treatment group was most significant contributing factor to AD completion (OR=4.213, CI=1.126 – 15.760, p=<.01). Findings indicate the importance of examining a variety of factors that could influence AD documentation. This study contributes to the literature by identifying the need for targeted and culturally relevant interventions that promote ACP education, counseling, communication, support, and AD documentation among older Latinos.
TAILORED ACTIVITY PROGRAM (TAP) COSTS: OPPORTUNITIES TO STREAMLINE DELIVERY AND PURSUE REIMBURSEMENT
Authors: Pizzi Laura T , Pizzi Laura T , Prioli Katherine M , Jutkowitz Eric , Yuan Jing , Gitlin Laura N
Published: November 2019

TAP intervention costs captured alongside the randomized controlled study included labor of program staff, mileage, supplies and materials. Staff time costs were converted to $US 2017 by multiplying hours spent by the appropriate wage rate plus fringe benefits; mileage was costed using the federal reimbursement rate. Research costs were excluded to approximate real world implementation. Costs varied based on number of visits required but mean component costs per dyad were: occupational therapist training ($133.50), home visit time ($527.57), travel ($718.02), work outside of intervention delivery ($57.14), program screening for eligibility ($3.73), supervision for quality assurance ($250.23), activity supplies ($51.64), and program materials ($29.32). Findings will be compared to a 2008 TAP pilot study post hoc cost analysis to identify how broader scale implementation impacts intervention costs. Opportunities to streamline program delivery will be discussed as well as potential reimbursement mechanisms via Medicare part B, Medicare Advantage, and Medicaid waiver programs.
LIFEBIO: PARTICIPANTS' EXPERIENCES IN A TELEPHONIC-BASED REMINISCENCE PROGRAM
Authors: Hudson Janella , Tkatch Rifky , Keown Karen , McGinn Michael , Wicker Ellen
Published: November 2019

Older adults facing age-related transitions are at increased risk for depression and loneliness. Reminiscence therapy has demonstrated positive outcomes for older adults, including improved socialization and reduced depression. A program known as LifeBio was designed as a group intervention to engage participants by capturing their life stories to positively impact wellness through reminiscence. This program was adapted to a telephonic format for the Aging Strong 2020 initiative. Semi-structured interviews eliciting feedback about participants’ experiences in the program were conducted with 24 participants. Respondent feedback indicated that those with limited mobility and fewer social connections reported the greatest benefit. Many identified the value of journaling as a form of recordkeeping for family members, but reported varying degrees of journal completion. Suggestions for improvement included future facilitation of two-way communication with other participants and opportunities for face-to-face interaction in group settings.
DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS OF CAREGIVERS, BRFSS, 2015-2017
Authors: Edwards Valerie J , McGuire Lisa C , Bouldin Erin D , Taylor Christopher A
Published: November 2019

As caregiving is becoming a leading public health issue, we used the BRFSS to better understand who caregivers are as well as features of their caregiving experience. We combined BRFSS data from three years (2015-2017) to examine demographic characteristics including gender, race, age, education, employment, and marital status. Slightly more than one in five BRFSS respondents (20.7%) were caregivers. The majority were women, had at least some college, were employed, and married or living with a partner. Most caregivers were under 45 years old, but a substantial proportion (20.7%) were 65 years or older. There was significant state variation by every demographic characteristic. These data underscore that caregiving is a common feature of U.S. family life, and caregivers’ concerns should be considered in healthcare, employment, and service provision. Important state-level variations uncovered by use of the BRFSS Caregiving Module could lead to better targeting of caregiver support programs.
CHARACTERISTICS OF CHINESE ADULTS ON CANCER SCREENING COMMUNICATIONS WITH PHYSICIANS
Authors: Hou Su-I
Published: November 2019

This study examined characteristics of Chinese adults on cancer screening communication with physicians. Whether doctor recommended screenings and whether communicated screenings with doctor were used to assess cancer communication. Participants were recruited from 9 Chinese churches (5 in U.S. and 4 in Taiwan; N=372). Mean age was 44.31, 60% males, 72% married, 85% college education, and 54% had family history. Overall 35.2% reported doctor recommended screenings and 27.7% talked with doctors about screenings (27.7%). Regressions showed Chinese 40+ years (OR=2.66 & 2.49), had annual health exam (OR=3.43 & 4.41), and been a primary cancer caregiver (OR=2.12 & 2.29) were more likely to report doctor recommended screenings (p<.001; 69% correct classification) and communicated with doctors about screenings (p<.001; 76% correct classification). There were no significant relationships between family history, gender, perceived cancer risk or health, and screening communications. Findings have implication on designing effective doctor-patient cancer communication programs among Chinese adults.
BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF NEUROCOGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT IN THE ENGLISH LONGITUDINAL STUDY OF AGEING
Authors: Cadar Dorina , Cadar Dorina , Abell Jessica , Llewellyn David J , Steptoe Andrew
Published: November 2019

Biological and psychosocial risk factors, particularly those that are malleable across the life course, are important determinants of neurocognitive health in later life. We investigated several determinants of cognitive impairment using the Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE), as part of the Harmonised Cognitive Assessment Protocol in 1,200 individuals aged ≥65 years from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. More than half the participants (55%) were married, 15% had diabetes, 12% had CHD, and fewer than 10% had a stroke. A longitudinal investigation of various risk factors measured at wave 6 (2012-13) was conducted in relation to neurocognitive impairment ascertained with the MMSE ≤24 in 2018. Our results indicate that certain environmental compensatory factors such as education, a marker of cognitive reserve, wealth and psychological wellbeing are relevant determinants of subsequent neurocognitive impairment six years later. These findings are highly informative for the development of interventions aiming to maintain neurocognitive health.
NATIONAL ELDER MISTREATMENT STUDY WAVE II: MENTAL HEALTH CORRELATES OF FINANCIAL MISTREATMENT
Authors: Hernandez-Tejada Melba , Acierno Ron , Watkins Jordan , Frook Gabrielle , Muzzy Wendy , Anetzberger Georgia , Steedley Mara
Published: November 2019

Objective: Whereas prevalence of elder financial mistreatment has received increased attention over the past decade, health and mental health correlates are rarely studied. Thus, the potential relevance of financial abuse to mental health and perceived health is relatively unknown, and the objective of this article is to illustrate this relationship. Method: The second wave of the National Elder Mistreatment Study used random digit dialing telephone survey methodology to assess both recent financial mistreatment and its potential mental health correlates (i.e., diagnoses of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD], generalized anxiety disorder [GAD], and self-ratings of physical health) in 774 older adults. Results: The study indicated that past-year Wave II financial mistreatment was associated with significantly increased likelihood of depression, PTSD, GAD, and poor self-rated health; and financial mistreatment perpetrated by family members was associated with particularly increased risk of depression. Discussion: Assessment of mental health is relevant and important in cases of financial abuse.
UNDERSTANDING RISK AND PROTECTIVE FACTORS FOR ELDER FAMILY FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION: A PREVENTIVE APPROACH
Authors: Vincenti Virginia B , Chapman Ashton
Published: November 2019

This paper presents qualitative data from a phenomenological study of 10 men and 38 women (N=48) within families with designated power of attorney (POA) agents. Participants were from 18 states nationwide, aged 20 to 73 (M = 46.6), and had varying educational and income levels. Eighteen individuals alleged that EFFE occurred in their families, 27 did not, and three didn’t know. The study explored EFFE risk and protective factors within Bronfenbrenner’s PPCT model (Tudge, 2018). Data were analyzed using a thematic, inductive approach. Specifically, person characteristics (e.g. perpetrators’ personality and victims’ cognitive functioning), proximal processes (e.g. family patterns of communication and resource sharing), context (e.g. geographic location), and time (e.g. prevailing legal, economic, and cohort factors) were associated with EFFE recognition and intervention. Implications and applications of the PPCT model for helping professionals (e.g., practitioners such as healthcare providers, attorneys, therapists) will be discussed to raise awareness of risk and protective factors within families that may increase or decrease the likelihood that elder financial exploitation by family members will occur. The goal is to improve prevention through helping families address risk factors before older relatives become dependent, encouraging more proactive planning in development of POA and other end-of-life documents, and detect exploitation early.
WORKPLACE SUPPORTS FOR WORKING LONGER: A CASE FOR THE BLACK LOW-WAGE WORKER
Authors: Jason Kendra
Published: November 2019

Government-sponsored retirement programs and employer benefits are directly tied to individual employment history and wages. Consequently, Black workers disproportionally face challenges in labor market compensation and retirement benefits. Due to a history of racial discrimination and economic oppression, Black workers earn less income over the life course and are less likely to have insurance support in comparison to their white counterparts in older age. This leads Black adults to remain in the workforce longer for financial support and presents unique physical and psychosocial challenges balancing work obligations and family responsibilities. Further, Black adults also suffer from more chronic illnesses, poor health outcomes, and death at higher rates compared to nearly all other racial groups. Drawing on data derived from a workplace case-study with interviews from 15 low-wage Black workers aged 50+ years, with multiple chronic conditions in the Southern United States. My aims are to (1) understand what workplace supports enable vulnerable workers to remain in the workforce, and (2) identity other buffers (i.e., resilience) to working with chronic conditions that enable prolonged work engagement. Findings suggest that workplaces can better support low-wage workers who cannot afford to retire by offering better pay and health benefits. Supervisor and coworker supports, flexible work arrangements and scheduling, and less stressful work environments also enable sustained work engagement. Research, policy and practice implications of this research include identifying workplace attributes and determining strategies to strengthen them, which is paramount to addressing disparities in work and health outcomes in the vulnerable communities.
INTERNET USE AND SOCIAL ISOLATION: THE SIGNIFICANCE OF LIFE TRANSITIONS
Authors: Shim Hyunju , Ailshire Jennifer A , Crimmins Eileen M
Published: November 2019

Social isolation has emerged as a significant public health risk for older people, and can be triggered by a number of life transitions in old age, such as retirement, bereavement, and divorce. Using the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), the current study aims to examine how internet use is associated with significant life transitions in marital and employment status in a longitudinal analysis. Results showed that using the internet was associated with lower social isolation and depression for people who became separated or divorced, but no significant interaction was observed for people who became widowed. On the other hand, becoming unemployed and using the internet was associated with more depressive symptoms. The results indicate that the link between psychological well-being and use of internet differs depending on the context of life transitions and may not have universal benefits for reducing social isolation.
EXPLORING THE PERCEPTION OF PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA ABOUT A SOCIAL ROBOT PARO IN A HOSPITAL SETTING
Authors: Hung Lillian , Gregorio mario , Mann Jim , Horne Neil , Wallsworth Christine , Berndt Annette , Chaudhury Habib
Published: November 2019

PARO, a robotic pet, was designed to provide emotional and social support for older people with dementia. This project aims to explore the perception of persons with dementia about the role of PARO in a hospital setting. Video-ethnographic methods were applied. Patient and family partners were involved in the fieldwork of data collection and analysis. We conducted conversational interviews with ten patients with dementia staying in a geriatric unit and video observations. Thematic analysis yielded three substantive themes: (a) “it’s like a buddy”, the robot helps persons with dementia to uphold a sense of self in the world, (b) “it’s a conversation piece”, the baby seal facilitates social connection, and (c) “it’s all about love”, PARO transforms and humanizes the clinical setting. Our findings contribute to providing a better understanding of the direct perspectives of patients with dementia on the use of the social robot.
TIPS FOR TIMELY (AND POSITIVE) REVIEWS: THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF AGING & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Patrick Julie Hicks
Published: November 2019

For more than 40 years, under the leadership of four editors and two publishers, The International Journal of Aging and Human Development (IJAHD) has featured multidisciplinary scholarship related to aging processes and older adults. With the publication of eight issues a year, with over 800 pages of scientific content, the IJAHD places emphasis upon psychological and social studies of aging and the aged. However, the Journal also publishes research that integrates observations from other disciplines that illuminate the "human" side of gerontology. A more recent focus includes midlife development, as well. About half (47%) of the publications in the IJAHD are from international colleagues. This presentation will discuss tips for both international and US-based scholars for ensuring timely reviews and positive decisions for manuscript submissions, including such areas as key words, suggesting unbiased reviewers, formatting, writing mechanics, clearly-articulated methods, and a sound theoretical basis.
ETHNICITY, RACE, HEALTH, AND SOCIAL CARE: STUDYING INEQUALITIES IN AN INJUSTICE-OBLIVIOUS WAY
Authors: Torres Sandra
Published: November 2019

Scholarship on ethnicity and old age is at a crossroad now that increased diversity is a given in older populations. The same holds true for the study of inequalities in old age as it relates to ethnicity and race. This presentation relies on a scoping review of scholarship published between 1998 - 2017 (n=336) that brings attention to the ways in which ethnicity/ race – as grounds for stratification and disadvantage - are made sense of in this scholarship. The presentation will describe the topics that the review divulged when it comes to the study of health and social care (i.e. access and usage; attitudes, preferences and experiences; assessment of programs suitability and self-care practices). In doing so, this presentation will argue that if we are to address the inequalities that older ethnic minorities face we need not only a diversity-astute research agenda but also an injustice-aware one.
A NARRATIVE STUDY TO CONNECT THE GERONTOLOGY: THE ELDERLY CHARACTERS IN NURSING HOMES FIRE NEWS IN TAIWAN
Authors: HSU Sheng-Chin
Published: November 2019

There are more than 30 civilian deaths in 10 fire accidents in nursing homes since 2008 in Taiwan. Due to the collective space of nursing homes, the damages of fires in a facility are much worse than in a personal house. Since the type of family changed after The Chinese Civil War, the elderly members, retired from the labor market, like to choose to live in nursing homes, or hospitals. According to the Ministry of Interior, R.O.C., Taiwan turned into an Aged society in 2018. In those fire news, the duties of families are seldom discussed, but the duties of care center are emphasized. The narrative of a fire accident in nursing homes is composed of many elements. These elements have been connected with old people and various arrangements. It is important to understand how the duties shifting from families to nursing homes, and what characters and relationship disappear in a fire accident. This study adopts the narrative theory to analyze the characters in fire report about Nursing Homes. Three findings are discovered: first, the duties of taking care of elders in a nursing home fire are connecting to Care Facilities but not families nor government. Second, the role of taking care of older people is played by Care-Staff more than family members in a fire narrative. Finally, the duty of fire and the duty of taking care of elders are interwoven into a complicated narrative: the role of Long-Term Care Center emerges but family and government disappear.
POETRY INTERVENTION IMPACTS PERSPECTIVES ON DEMENTIA AND CAPABILITIES AMONG YOUNG VOLUNTEERS
Authors: Kaplan Daniel B , Glazner Gary
Published: November 2019

Poetry for Life (PFL), is a teaching and learning initiative that brings students together with older adults in meaningful community service workshops. PFL capitalizes on the skills and passions of young poets by offering opportunities to serve elders by leading poetry workshops at settings where older adults receive care. This study examines measurable impacts of training, exposure, and experience in poetry-based intergenerational workshops on students’ knowledge, attitudes, and values. Participating groups of students receive instruction in performing and creating poetry in group settings. They visit local elder care settings to facilitate PFL workshops and then write reflections on their experiences. Students agree to complete pre- and post-program surveys to document the impacts of PFL experiences on students' social/emotional health and on their knowledge, attitudes, and values related to older adults, dementia and dementia care, poetry and arts-based interventions, and careers in healthcare, aging fields, and the arts. To date, 33 young people from one middle school, one high school, and one graduate college program have volunteered to participate in the program and completed the study. Findings reveal significant impacts on students’ perceived capabilities working and communicating with people with dementia as well as leading poetry activities. Additionally, significant positive impacts were demonstrated on 12 of 20 items on the Dementia Attitudes Scale across participating students. The PFL experience did not, however, lead to significant impacts on student self-esteem or work interests. These findings suggest benefits and limitations of this service-learning experience. Implications for future programming will be discussed.
TECHNOLOGICALLY MEDIATED INTERVENTIONS IN HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE: CONSIDERATIONS FOR RURAL ELDERS
Authors: Washington Karla T
Published: November 2019

Rural communities are home to a disproportionate number of older adults, many of whom are living with a serious illness or providing care to a seriously ill family member or friend. For these individuals, hospice and palliative care services can provide much-needed biopsychosocial and spiritual support, leading to an enhanced quality of life. Technologically-mediated interventions hold promise as a strategy to bridge geographic distances between healthcare providers and rural elders; however, the effect of such interventions may be greater when they are designed in a manner congruent with rural culture and compatible with the technological infrastructure common in rural areas. Informed by lessons learned during a pilot study of a telehealth intervention in one Midwestern state (R21CA191165), this presentation includes a discussion of strategies to more effectively recruit, engage, and retain rural older adults into studies testing technologically-mediated interventions for hospice and palliative care patients and their families.
DEVELOPING SOCIAL CONVOY PALLIATIVE CARE MOBILE HEALTH FOR OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Portz Jennifer D
Published: November 2019

Social Convoy Theory is well established in the gerontology literature and provides a framework for understanding the relationships of individuals in a group of people with whom they give and receive social support over the life-cycle. Previous research substantiates a link between the importance of social convoys and health outcomes among older adults with advanced illness. However, the concept of social convoy has not been applied to mobile health (mHealth) for palliative care. Often mHealth systems are designed for individual users, lacking innovative solutions for multiple, age-diverse, simultaneous users to maximize benefit. Therefore, the Social Convoy Palliative Care (Convoy-Pal) mobile application (K76AG059934) was developed using a rigorous iterative process with older patients, their social convoy, and health providers, to foster effective integration of the social convoy in palliative care-specific mHealth. Based on these findings, this presentation discusses strategies to design mHealth for a convoy of users in geriatric palliative care.
LINKING LIVES: PROMOTING HEALTH EQUITY TO DISRUPT THE CYCLE OF SOCIAL ISOLATION
Authors: Goldsen Karen Fredriksen
Published: November 2019

Resulting from social, economic, and environmental disadvantage in vulnerable communities, health inequities have systematically created greater obstacles to aging. Despite the adversity of their lives, or perhaps because of it, older adults from vulnerable populations embody an Iridescent Life Course, displaying remarkable resilience and resistance, yet are at greater risk of health disparities and social isolation in later life. In the U.S. social isolation has reached epidemic proportions, creating a largely invisible public health crisis with few resources for an aging population. In her presentation, Professor Karen Fredriksen Goldsen will share her landmark longitudinal research on LGBT older adults, who have historically confronted social exclusion, with divergent pathways leading to social isolation. She will discuss the development and testing of community evidence-based interventions and how these findings can provide effective alternatives for anyone living in isolation as well as promote health equity, creating a future for full aging potential.
BARRIERS, FACILITATORS, BENEFITS, AND ENJOYMENT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN MIDDLE-AGED HISPANIC MEN
Authors: Delgado Ferdinand , DerAnanian Cheryl , Vega-Lopez Sonia , Vega-Soto Shandel , Valdez Hector , Hooker Steven
Published: November 2019

Little is known about middle-aged Hispanic men’s perceptions of physical activity (PA). Purpose: To examine perceived barriers, facilitators, and benefits of PA and what types of PA are enjoyable. Methods: Seven focus groups (FGs) were conducted with middle-aged Hispanic men (mean age 51.6±6.1 years; n=32) who primarily self-identified as Mexican (78.1%). All FGs were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated into English. A grounded theory approach was used to identify themes. Results: Competing responsibilities (N=7 FGs), laziness/apathy (N=6 FGs), and a lack of habit/routine (N=5 FGs) were identified as the primary barriers to PA. Jobs were perceived as a PA barrier because of physical labor involved, long hours, having multiple jobs, and/or an inconsistent schedule. Laziness/apathy involved the notion that people have time to exercise, but choose not to. Not having a routine resulted in procrastination and not achieving exercise goals. Social support was the primary facilitator to PA, which included having a friend (N=5 FGs), family member (N=5 FGs), or spouse/partner (N=6 FGs) with whom they could participate in PA. Sports were mentioned in all FGs as enjoyable, including soccer (N=5 FGs), basketball (N=5 FGs), tennis/racquetball/handball (N=3 FGs), and baseball (N=2 FGs). Walking/running (N=6 FGs) and hiking (N=5 FGs) were also considered enjoyable. The primary perceived benefits of PA included increased energy after exercising (N=6 FGs) and improved overall health (N=6 FGs). Conclusion: Hispanic men realize the importance of PA and what may be hindrances or facilitators to increasing PA. Funded by the National Institute on Aging (R21 AG050084-01A1).
SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS AND OBESITY IN LATER LIFE: A LONGITUDINAL ANALYSIS
Authors: Tavares Jane L , Burr Jeffrey , Miller Edward A
Published: November 2019

The majority of U.S. older adults are overweight or obese. Social relationships are a key factor linked to obesity among younger age groups, but there are no known investigations of these modifiable risk factors older for adults. This study examined the association between quantitative and qualitative indicators of social relationships and waist circumference among middle-aged and older adults. We also examined whether psychosocial and health behavior characteristics mediate and/or moderate these relationships. Using the 2006 and 2010 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, a series of regression models were estimated to examine the longitudinal association between social relationships and waist circumference in age stratified samples (age 50 to 64; age 65 and older). Results for those age 50 to 64 indicated that higher positive social support and lower negative social support were associated with lower waist circumference over time. For those age 65 and older, lower negative social support and higher loneliness were associated with lower waist circumference over time. Further, daily exercise and anxiety were observed to be mediators of these associations; both variables also acted as moderators. Findings from this study highlight the need for healthcare providers to assess older adults’ levels of social support and loneliness in order to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of wellness. The results also underscore the importance of developing intervention programs that provide widespread and ample opportunities for older adults to engage socially, particularly those that incorporate or encourage physical activity and healthy eating.
EXPLORING STRUCTURAL BARRIERS TO MEDICAL CANNABIS ACCESS AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Arora Kanika , Arora Kanika , Bobitt Julie , Kaskie Brian
Published: November 2019

A growing number of older persons are using cannabis to treat medical conditions and symptoms. Preliminary work examining survey responses from persons over age 60 in Colorado and revealed the presence of structural barriers in safe and effective access to MC. In particular, older adults reported a gap in their expectations as a patient and current healthcare provider practice in counseling and educating them on MC use. To examine this from the provider perspective, we aim to survey Illinois state physicians and assess current knowledge, training needs, attitudes and practices associated with MC and older adults. Multivariate regression analysis will be conducted to predict current practice associated with MC (for example, whether physician ever certified a patient for MC) as a function of provider characteristics, as well as their knowledge and attitudes on the topic. We will also conduct sub-group analysis to understand practice patterns by specialty and experience.
SOCIAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION: FINDINGS FROM INTERNATIONAL SURVEYS
Authors: Xu Hanzhang , Wu Bei
Published: November 2019

This symposium examines how social and psychological factors including formal schooling, subjective memory, and neuropsychological symptoms impact cognitive function among older adults in China and the U.S. The first paper used the WHO’s Study on global AGEing and adult health Wave-1 data to examine the relationship between subjective cognitive function, perceived memory decline, and objective cognitive function among older adults in China. The results showed worse subjective cognitive function was associated with poorer working memory and verbal fluency, whereas greater perceived memory decline was associated only with poorer working memory. Furthermore, using data from the Health and Retirement Study, the second paper applied group-based trajectory modeling to assess dual trajectories of subjective memory impairment and objective cognitive decline. Four distinct dual-trajectory typologies were identified, suggesting complex co-occurring changes in subjective memory and objective cognition in older adults. The third paper characterized the trajectories of three neuropsychological symptoms (pain, insomnia, and depression) prior to dementia onset. Using data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study, the study found older adults with dementia exhibit distinct trajectory of depression before dementia onset than those without dementia. Trajectories of pain and insomnia did not differ before dementia onset. The last paper examined the effect of education on cognitive decline among lower educated older adults using data from the Longitudinal Study of Older Adults in Anhui Province, China. Results suggest that older adults with some formal schooling had slower cognitive decline; the gap in cognition between the literate and illiterate widened with age.
TRAJECTORIES OF SUBJECTIVE MEMORY IMPAIRMENT AND OBJECTIVE COGNITIVE DECLINE IN U.S. OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Xu Hanzhang , Dupre Matthew E , Wu Bei
Published: November 2019

We examined the dual trajectories of subjective memory impairment (SMI) and objective cognitive decline and their associated factors in U.S. older adults. We used data from the Health and Retirement Study which includes a nationally representative sample of 19,408 Americans age 65 and older from 1998 to 2016. Trajectories of SMI and objective cognitive decline were simultaneously characterized using a group-based trajectory model and multinomial logistic regressions were used to assess factors associated with the dual-trajectory typologies. Four dual-trajectories were identified: “minimal SMI and stable-low cognitive decline” (33.1% of respondents); “minimal SMI with accelerated cognitive decline” (28.2%); “significant SMI with moderate cognitive decline” (21.0%); and “moderate SMI with steady cognitive decline” (17.6%). Being male, minority, low educated, living alone, and having comorbidities were associated with trajectories featuring greater SMI or more rapid deterioration in cognition. The results suggest complex co-occurring changes in subjective memory and objective cognition in older adults.
TRAJECTORIES OF PAIN, INSOMNIA, AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS BEFORE ONSET OF DEMENTIA
Authors: Liu Minhui , Xu Hanzhang , Liu Junxin , Perrin Nancy A , Szanton Sarah L
Published: November 2019

This study examined the trajectories of pain, insomnia, and depression during a four-year period in community-dwelling participants aged 65 or older (N=2,486) from the National Health and Aging Trends Study. Self-reported pain, insomnia, and depressive symptoms were collected at each wave. Dementia status was determined using a modified previously validated algorithm. We analyzed retrospective trajectories of each symptom using mix-effect models and a backward timescale. We also tested for differences in each symptom trajectory between those with and without dementia. Results showed that the trajectory of depression significantly differed by dementia status (Wald χ2=388.34; P<.001). Participants with dementia had persistently higher depression level than those without dementia, particularly during the year before dementia onset. Trajectories of pain and insomnia did not differ before dementia onset. Depression increases risks of dementia and studies with longer length of follow-up are needed to detect significant trajectories of pain and insomnia before dementia onset.
RACIAL DIFFERENCES IN CHARACTERISTICS AND PERCEPTIONS OF CAREGIVERS TO BLACK AND WHITE OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Fabius Chanee D , Fabius Chanee , Wolff Jennifer , Kasper Judith
Published: November 2019

Persistent racial differences in health, socioeconomic characteristics, and service utilization of older adults likely result in differential effects for the circumstances and experiences of family and unpaid caregivers. Utilization of community-based services has been found to alleviate caregiver burden, but the extent to which supports and informal help affect race differences in caregiver perceptions (e.g. positive/negative feelings associated with caregiving) and engagement in activities such as religious services, volunteering, or visiting family and friends, is less understood. Using data from the 2015 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS; Round 5) and the National Study of Caregiving (NSOC; Round 2), nationally representative studies of Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 and older and their caregivers, this presentation will discuss the association between sociodemographic characteristics, use of assistance from others or supportive services, and perceived gains, difficulties, and social engagement among caregivers to older black and white adults.