bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHARACTERIZING PERFORMANCE VARIABILITY DURING A SIX-MINUTE WALK TEST
Authors: Brinkley Tina , Hsu Fang-Chi , Kitzman Dalane , Houston Denise , Fanning Jason
Published: January 2025

The six minute walk (6MW) is a test of sub-maximal exercise capacity that reflects the level at which most activities of daily living are performed. While 6MW outcomes traditionally focus on distance covered or average gait speed, recent efforts explore methods to capture performance variability. We used functional principal component analysis (fPCA) to characterize patterns of lap-to-lap performance in 33 adults with overweight/obesity (mean age: 64.2±7.7 yrs, mean BMI: 35.5±6.1 kg/m2, 79% male, 82% White). The 6MW was performed on a 20-m course using standardized procedures, and the time to complete each half lap was recorded. Spearman correlation coefficients were used to examine associations between fPCA components and physical function measures including the expanded Short Physical Performance Battery (eSPPB) and self-reported mobility. Two fPCA components were extracted, explaining 72% (PC1) and 15% (PC2) of the variance in lap-to-lap performance. PC1 captured both speed and consistency of performance, where higher scores were correlated with greater 6MW distance (r=0.93, p< 0.0001), faster initial 6MW gait speed (r=0.80, p< 0.0001), 4-meter usual gait speed (r=0.64, p< 0.0001), and repeated chair stands time (r=-0.40, p=0.02), and higher eSPPB (r=0.50, p-0.027) and mobility (r=0.54, r=0.001) scores. PC2 captured consistency in performance, with higher scores correlating with less gait change speed during the 6MW (r=-0.63, p< 0.0001) and better balance (r=0.43, p=0.0122). These results suggest faster gait speed overall as well as during the initial stages of the 6MW are associated with better physical function. Future research should examine whether intervening on gait speed and gait consistency benefits long-term independence.
DIETARY DIVERSITY AND OVERWEIGHT ARE ASSOCIATED WITH HIGH INTRINSIC CAPACITY AMONG CHINESE URBAN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Lin Siyang , Chen Jingyi , jiang Xinye , Huang Xiaoming , Yuan Yin , Li Na , Huang Feng , Zhu Pengli
Published: January 2025

Background and objectives

The associations of intrinsic capacity (IC) with dietary diversity and body mass index (BMI) remain unclear in older adults. This study aimed to examine the associations of dietary diversity and BMI on high IC.

Methods

The cross-sectional study used data from the Fujian Prospective Aging Cohort, which included 1972 individuals aged 60-98 from 2020 to 2021. The dietary diversity score (DDS) was constructed with eight food varieties, and consuming ≥five varieties of food daily was considered a high DDS. BMI was grouped into underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity according to the Chinese guidelines. High IC was defined as ≥three unimpaired domains of cognition, locomotion, sensory, vitality, and psychology.

Results

Compared with low DDS, high DDS had a positive association with high IC (OR = 1.42, 95 % CI = 1.16-1.74). Compared with normal weight, underweight was inversely related to high IC (OR = 0.18, 95 % CI = 0.09-0.36), overweight was positively related to high IC (OR = 1.65, 95 % CI = 1.33-2.06), while no significant association was observed between obesity and high IC. The restricted cubic spline model exhibited an inverted U-shaped nonlinear curve of BMI and high IC and identified an optimal BMI of 25.7 kg/m2 for high IC.

Conclusions

High DDS is a protective factor of high IC in older adults. Overweight had the most protective association with high IC among the four BMI subgroups. Individuals with overweight and higher dietary diversity had higher IC.
THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN WEIGHT-ADJUSTED WAIST INDEX AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Qiu Xichenhui , Kuang Jiahao , Wei Changning , Zheng Xujuan
Published: January 2025

Background

The impact of obesity on cognitive function has generated interest, and weight-adjusted waist index (WWI) has emerged as a novel marker of obesity. However, the association between WWI and cognitive function in older adults remains unclear. This study aims to explore the relationship between WWI and cognitive performance in older adults using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2014.

Methods

A cross-sectional investigation was conducted using NHANES data. Multivariate regression and smoothing curve fitting were used to analyze the linear and nonlinear relationship between WWI and cognitive function, assessed by neuropsychological tests. Subgroup analysis and machine learning models were employed to evaluate the stability and associations between WWI and cognitive metrics.

Results

The analysis included 3472 participants. Results showed that higher WWI was significantly associated with lower scores on cognitive tests, including CERAD-WL (learning), AFT (memory), and DSST (processing speed). This association remained stable after considering WWI as a categorical variable. The negative association was more pronounced in men and decreased with advancing age. Non-linear threshold effects were observed, with stronger correlations between WWI and cognitive function above specific thresholds. Conclusions: Increased abdominal obesity, as indicated by higher WWI, was linked to deficits in learning, memory, verbal fluency, and processing speed among older adults. These findings suggest that abdominal obesity may play a crucial role in cognitive decline in this population. Interventions targeting abdominal obesity could be important for preserving cognitive performance in older adults.
APP PROMOTING NONPHARMACOLOGICAL INTERVENTIONS FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA IN NURSING HOMES
Authors: Yang Minhee , Hwang Sinwoo , Kim EunKyo , Cho Jungwon , Cho Eunhee
Published: January 2025

Mobile app-based interventions have emerged as a promising approach for providing individualized non-pharmacological interventions to people living with dementia (PLWD) to manage behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). Offering such interventions can be challenging in nursing homes because of the lack of support from family members and heavy workload when composing and implementing individualized non-pharmacological interventions. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a decision support application for nurses to facilitate non-pharmacological interventions. The research team developed an app that provides symptom-specific non-pharmacological interventions, and experts provided feedback on the app’s usability. Finally, the app was tested with four dyads of PLWD and nurses for four weeks (two weeks of the intervention period only) and was assessed for its overall quality and usability using questionnaires and interviews. Nurses recorded BPSD diaries ranging from 17 to 78 for four weeks. The implementation of symptom-specific, individualized non-pharmacological interventions using the application led to a reduction in BPSD. The nurses most frequently provided individualized music programs, followed by reminiscence programs. The engagement level of each dyad ranged from 3.1 to 3.6 out of 5. Overall, the app was perceived as beneficial in facilitating symptom-specific, individualized non-pharmacological care in nursing homes. Collectively, this study highlights the usefulness of the app in nursing homes by assisting nurses in their decisions regarding non-pharmacological interventions. However, further enhancements are warranted to improve usability and efficacy within the context of nursing homes.
EPIGENETIC AGING AND XENOBIOTIC METABOLISM IN THE MOUSE LIVER
Authors: Abudahab Sara , Saeedy Dalia Al , AlAzzeh Ola , McClay Joseph
Published: January 2025

Hepatic xenobiotic metabolism declines with age, and while intact metabolism is associated with longevity, few studies have explored the genome-wide impact of epigenetic aging on these processes. In this study, we used liver tissues from male C57BL/6 mice (4, 24, and 32 months), obtained from the National Institute on Aging. We mapped DNA methylation changes using Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing (RRBS) to identify age-associated differentially methylated sites (a-DMS). Our findings demonstrate significant age-associated methylation changes, with younger mice (4 months) displaying different patterns compared to older counterparts. First, we found that genes encoding Phase I and II drug-metabolizing enzymes, in addition to ABC and SLC transporters, showed differential methylation with age. Targeted analysis of important pharmacogenes (Cyp1a2, Cyp2d9, and Abcc2) showed that aging led to Cyp2d9 hypermethylation and reduced expression, while Abcc2 expression remained unchanged. Cyp1a2 was hypomethylated with age, yet its expression decreased. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that a-DMS hypomethylated with age were enriched for HNF4α binding sites. HNF4α is downregulated with age, potentially explaining the reduction in Cyp1a2 expression despite hypomethylation. Pathway analysis of a-DMS revealed disruptions in xenobiotic metabolism pathways, including small molecule catabolism, are evident in both normally aged (24 months) and super-aged (32 months) mice when compared to the younger group (4 months). This study underscores the impact of epigenetic modifications in aging on liver function and xenobiotic metabolism.
THE INTERPLAY BETWEEN GENETIC VARIANTS IN MIR146A AND ABCG2 GENES IS ASSOCIATED WITH HUMAN SURVIVAL
Authors: Yashin Anatoliy , Wu Deqing , Arbeev Konstantin , Duan Hongzhe , Holmes Rachel , Akushevich Igor , Ukraintseva Svetlana
Published: January 2025

The ABCG2 gene is well-known for its role in developing drug resistance and for its impact on the survival of cancer patients. To modulate the effects of ABCG2 on health and survival different intervention strategies were suggested. Among them, the use of non-coding RNAs that are involved in posttranscriptional modification of gene expression was suggested. MiR146a is known as a posttranscriptional regulator of expressions of many genes involved in aging, health, and survival traits. In this paper, we evaluate the role of interplay between variants in miR146a and ABCG2 genes in human survival. We apply the logistic regression model with the interaction term to the analysis of Framingham Heart Study data to test the null hypothesis that the interplay between variants in miR146a and ABCG2 genes is not associated with human survival. As an outcome we use the survival trait, Sur1, defined by dichotomizing a person’s lifespan, LS, as follows: Sur1=1, if LS >=85 years; Sur1=0 if LS < 85. We used the clumping procedure to reduce the number of tests and increase the Bonferroni correction threshold (BCT). The analysis detected a statistically significant association of interaction between rs13120400 in the ABCG2 gene and rs2910163 in the miR146 gene, β=-0.46. p=3.74E-03, BCT = 1.00E-02. Interactions of rs13120400 also showed nominally statistically significant associations with two other SNPs from the miR146a gene. rs2910164: β=-0.38, p=1.96E-02; and rs2961920: β=-0.36, p=2.45E-02. It turns out that all four SNPs are well known in scientific literature and play important roles in many health and longevity-related traits.
BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN BLACK WOMEN WITH CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
Authors: Kim Hyun Jung , Gore Shweta
Published: January 2025

Cardiovascular disease (CMD) remains the primary cause of death among Black women in the United States. Given the well-recognized benefits of physical activity (PA) in reducing CVD mortality, PA levels among Black women remain notably low. This study aims to explore factors associated with low PA in Black women with CMD via secondary analysis of subjective Global Physical Activity Questionnaire data in the 2013-2028 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) sample. The prevalence of CVD among Black women (26,100,000 ± 2,171,143) in the estimated total population of United States (US) was significantly greater than in Black men (21,300,000 ± 1,592,102) (t = -5.02, p < 0.001). Significantly greater proportion of Black women in the US did not meet the recommended PA guidelines (79.9% versus 89.3% in Black men and women; t = 3.51, p = 0.001). Among Black men and women, age, self-perceived health, and difficulty walking emerged as significant predictors of meeting PA guidelines (F5, 40 = 10.07, p < 0.001, whereas age and high glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were significant predictors among Black women (F8, 36 = 2.62, p = 0.023). Every unit increase in age and HbA1c decreased the odds of Black women meeting the PA guidelines by 5% and 27.6% (OR = 0.96, p = 0.014 and OR = 0.96, p = 0.014).
CHARACTERIZATION OF NOVEL ACCELEROMETER-MEASURED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY METRICS BY COGNITIVE STATUS IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Cai Yurun , Snitz Beth , Cohen Ann
Published: January 2025

Although levels of physical activity (PA) are associated with risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), most studies have used self-report PA and/or focused solely on intensities (e.g., MVPA) which may lead to recall bias or measurement error. We aim to characterize novel PA metrics among adults aged ☐50y with various cognitive status in the Connectomics in Brain Aging and Dementia study. A total of 166 (mean age 65.3☐8.9y, 65.9% women) participants with neuropsychological and valid accelerometer data in 2016-2021 were included in the analysis. PA metrics included total activity counts (TAC), logged TAC (LTAC), activity fragmentation, active minutes/day, number of active bouts, and PA complexity calculated using multiscale entropy. Participants were classified into normal control (NC)(n=84), impaired without complaints (IWOC) or subjective cognitive complaints (SCC)(n=36), and MCI/AD(n=44). Analysis of variance analysis found that IWOC/SCC had fewer number of active bouts than NC (85.34 vs. 91.83, p=0.043), lower PA complexity than NC (52.57% vs. 64.33%, p=0.001) and MCI/AD (52.57% vs. 60.68%, p=0.045). Participants with MCI/AD had lower LTAC than NC (14.38 vs. 14.50, p=0.042) and higher activity fragmentation than the other two groups (25.89% vs. 23.70%, p=0.035). Logistic regression models showed that each 1% higher in PA complexity was associated with 4% lower odds of IWOC/SCC compared to NC (OR=0.96, 95%CI:0.93-0.99, p=0.004), adjusted for sociodemographics. Our study highlights the importance of assessing novel PA metrics particularly PA complexity which may be more sensitive than conventional metrics to identify adults at early stages of pathological progression to dementia.
EFFECTS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND CVD RISK ON MEMORY CONCERNS: RESULTS FROM THE NATIONAL HEALTH INTERVIEW SURVEY
Authors: Anderson Joel , Harris Robin , Smith Jennifer
Published: January 2025

Common pathways exist between cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in aging adults; therefore, this study examined the associations between the frequency of physical activity (PA) and memory issues in older adults with or at risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Data from the 2022 National Health Interview Survey were used to examine the influence of CVD risk and physical activity on self-reported experiences of memory challenges using logistic regression. The sample (N = 13,432) was limited to adults ≥50 years of age. Most of the sample was female, White, married/partnered, and reported a good to excellent health status. Roughly a quarter (24.9%) reported some difficulty remembering or concentrating while the majority (89.1%) had some level of increased CVD risk based on Framingham criteria. Half of the sample (51%) did not meet the current PA guidelines for older adults. After controlling for age, sex, race, ethnicity, and region, those with a poor or fair health status (OR = 3.24, CI = 2.94–3.56, p < 0.001), increased CVD risk (OR = 1.26, CI = 1.09–1.47, p = 0.002), or who did not meet current PA guidelines (OR = 1.67, CI = 1.46–1.90, p < 0.001) more frequently reported challenges with remembering or concentrating. Given these findings, further research is warranted into the role of PA in memory issues, particularly for those at risk for CVD. Following guidelines for PA for these older adults may be helpful.
FEASIBILITY AND EFFECTS OF HIGH-INTENSITY INTERVAL TRAINING ON COGNITIVE FUNCTION AND BRAIN HEALTH IN PERIMENOPAUSE
Authors: Cirone Victoria , Silva Nárlon Cássio Boa Sorte , Barha Cindy , Handy Todd , Stein Ryan , Heath Sarah , Liu-Ambrose Teresa
Published: January 2025

Neuroendocrine changes during perimenopause negatively impact cognitive function and brain health (e.g., reduced verbal episodic memory and myelin catabolism in the brain). Exercise promotes cognitive performance and mitigates vascular risk factors for cognitive impairment. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) involves short bursts of high-intensity exercise interspersed with active recovery; it improves cardiovascular fitness and vascular risk profile. HIIT addresses the “lack of time” barrier to exercise that perimenopausal females report. This pre-post pilot study assessed the feasibility and potential effects of 12-weeks of HIIT on cardiovascular fitness, verbal episodic memory, hippocampal volume, and myelin content. Feasibility metrics included recruitment rate (i.e., 1/month), withdrawal rate (i.e., < 15%), adherence (i.e., >60%). Training fidelity was assessed by cardiovascular fitness (VO2max.) Verbal episodic memory was assessed by Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test delayed recall. Hippocampal volume was measured by T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Myelin content was measured by myelin water fraction. Cohen’s d and one-tailed paired t-tests assessed effect sizes and potential changes. Recruitment rate was 0.35 participants/month (six participants in 17 months). Withdrawal rate was 16.67% and adherence was 88.2%. The intervention had a negligible effect on VO2max (Cohen’s d=0.06, p=0.35), large and significant effect on delayed recall (Cohen’s d=0.94, p=0.04), negligible effect on hippocampal volume (Cohen’s d=0.06, p=0.18), and medium to large effect on sagittal stratum myelin content (Cohen’s d=0.68, p=0.06). Future studies should consider home-based exercise and tailored recruitment methods (e.g. social media) to meet recruitment targets. HIIT may be beneficial for cognitive function and myelin content.
FEASIBILITY OF A REMOTE SOCIAL NETWORK-BASED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY INTERVENTION
Authors: Webster Noah , Santioni Margaret , Petroff Lisa , Adnan Maham , McGuire Katrina , Alexander Neil
Published: January 2025

Despite physical activity being associated with personal and societal benefits, only 16 percent of people age 65 and older engage in recommended levels. To assist in increasing this percentage, we developed a six-week social network-based occupational therapy intervention to be administered remotely with older adults living in subsidized housing. The intervention was designed to improve physical activity through incorporation of socially engaged residents as advisory committee members and addressing activity barriers such as pain through group and individual meetings with an occupational therapist. In summer/fall 2023 a pilot feasibility study was conducted with a cohort of older adults (n=5) living in a Southeast, Michigan housing community. Process outcomes were examined and secondary health and activity outcomes were assessed via pre- and post-intervention interviews and accelerometry. Participants attended on average 9.2 (SD=1.3) intervention activities out of 10. None of the participants knew each other prior to intervention enrollment. However, post-intervention, four of the five participants reported knowing three or more other participants. In terms of secondary outcomes, three out of five participants reported a decline in the extent to which pain interfered with activities and perceived barriers to physical activity decreased for two participants, increased for two, and stayed the same for one. Step counts increased for two participants, but decreased for three. Secondary outcomes were mixed and suggest needed modifications. Additionally, while participation rates exceeded expectations, feasibility was not supported for the social network approach. However, newly formed social ties resulting from the intervention highlight potential for future behavior change.
GENETIC RISK, MODIFIABLE FACTORS, AND COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE IN MIDDLE- AND OLDER-AGED CANADIANS
Authors: Hopper Shawna , Barha Cindy , DeMarco Mari , Cosco Theodore , Wister Andrew , Best John
Published: January 2025

Whether the apolipoprotein E (APOE) e4 allele interacts with modifiable factors to predict cognitive performance is unclear. This study examined 26,448 participants (45 to 86 years of age at baseline) in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging who had their blood genotyped for the APOE e4 allele, of whom 6,305 (24%) were e4 carriers. Cognitive outcomes were Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test 5-minute delayed recall, Mental Alterations Test, and Animal Fluency Test, which were collected at baseline (December 2011 to July 2015), follow-up 1 (median 2.9 years after baseline), and follow-up 2 (median 5.8 years after baseline). We examined interactions between time from baseline, APOE e4 status and the following exposures: self-reported physical activity and a composite risk score comprised of sedentary behavior, smoking, depressive symptoms, social isolation, whole blood hemoglobin A1c fraction, and percent body fat. Models were adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity, study language (French/English), residential setting (urban/rural), and educational attainment. Across cognitive outcomes, an age by APOE e4 interaction was observed (p values ranging from <.001 to.01), such that the difference in cognitive performance between carriers and non-carriers increased as participant age increased. Although physical activity and composite risk were associated with cognitive performance (all p values <.01), there was not convincing evidence that these associations varied by e4 carrier status after correcting for multiple comparisons. Together, these findings confirm that APOE e4 carriers show greater reductions in cognitive performance but do not suggest that e4 status alters associations between modifiable risk and cognitive decline.
LEISURE ACTIVITY AND POSITIVE MOOD ACROSS ADULTHOOD: RESULTS FROM THE KOREAN TIME USE SURVEY
Authors: Cha Seung-Eun , Kim Kyungmin , Kim Hyejoong
Published: January 2025

Adults in middle and later life may look forward to dedicating more time to outdoor leisure activities, which can contribute to their health and well-being. This study utilized 2-day time diaries from the 2019 Korean Time Use Survey (respondent N = 22,821; age 20−84) to examine how Korean adults engage in various outdoor activities (e.g., social visits, attending cultural events, and exercising) and whether their activity engagement (indicated by outdoor activity diversity and total hours of outdoor activity) is associated with positive mood. Further, we investigated whether these associations varied by age groups (age 20–39, 40–64, and 65–84), considering differences in family and work demands. We accounted for respondents’ total TV viewing hours, total “doing-nothing” hours, and sociodemographic characteristics as control variables in the models for positive mood. The findings showed that total hours of outdoor activities and watching TV were positively associated with a positive mood in younger adults, supporting the psychological benefits of detachment from work. Yet, for older individuals, diversity in outdoor activities was positively associated with positive mood, while total hours of outdoor activities were not significant—which indicates that engaging in various activities throughout the day can be beneficial for psychological well-being in later life. Notably, we found that total TV viewing hours were negatively associated with the positive mood of older adults. This study sheds light on the differential impacts of leisure activities based on life stages, underscoring the importance of diverse leisure activities for the psychological health of older individuals.
MAPPING THE LITERATURE FOR THE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY SCALE FOR THE ELDERLY (PASE): A SCOPING REVIEW
Authors: D’Amore Cassandra , Lajambe Lexie , Bush Noah , Hiltz Sydney , Laforest Justin , Viel Isabella , Hao Qiukui , Beauchamp Marla
Published: January 2025

The Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) is a commonly used and recommended self-report measure of physical activity in older adults. This scoping review aimed to map the nature and extent to which the PASE has been used in community-dwelling older adults, including the evidence for its psychometric properties. Review eligibility criteria included: i)community-dwelling older adults (60+ years), ii)physical activity integrated into study aims and measured with the PASE, and iii)published in English. Pairs of independent reviewers screened abstracts, full-texts, and extracted data. Where possible, weighted mean PASE scores were calculated for subgroups based on age, sex, and clinical population. Seven electronic databases were searched in January 2023; 4,124 studies were screened, and 232 articles from 35 countries were included. Most studies were completed in high-income countries (86.4%) and North America (49.57%). A variety of clinical conditions were included (n=21), the most common populations being osteoarthritis (n=13), Parkinson’s disease (n=11), and cognitive impairment (n=7). Psychometric properties for ten versions of the PASE were reported. All versions demonstrated acceptable test-retest reliability. Evidence for construct validity reported moderate correlations with self-reported physical activity and fair to moderate correlations with accelerometry-derived activity. Pooled means were reported in graphs and forest plots by age, sex, and clinical populations. The PASE was widely used across geographical locations and culturally adapted to several populations. Some psychometric properties have been evaluated; however, further research is required to examine responsiveness and predictive validity. The weighted mean PASE scores presented can improve interpretability of scores in similar populations.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND EXERCISE-INDUCED NEUROTROPHIC AND CORTISOL RESPONSES: PRELIMINARY RESULTS
Authors: Huynh Thinh , Rushing Baylie , Love Madeleine , Head Denise , Stojanovic Marta
Published: January 2025

Neurotrophic and cortisol responses to a bout of exercise are a pathway for understanding the potential mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of regular physical activity on cognitive and brain health. However, there is limited understanding of the factors that moderate such responses. This study examined whether long-term exercise history and current moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels predicted neurotrophic and cortisol responses to acute exercise. In addition, we investigated whether these associations were moderated by age and sex. Clinically normal middle-aged and older adults from the Knight ADRC Adult Children Study (n=54; age=43-85) completed a questionnaire about exercise engagement over a 10-year period and underwent a submaximal VO2 assessment, with both representing a combined estimate of their long-term physical activity. Participants also completed seven days of actigraphy, which was used to estimate current MVPA. Participants engaged in a bout of exercise, with neurotrophic factors and cortisol measured at baseline, 10 minutes post-exercise, and 30 minutes post-exercise. Long-term physical activity did not influence neurotrophic (p=0.538) or cortisol responses (p=0.276), regardless of age and sex (p’s >0.143). Higher current MVPA was associated with a greater neurotrophic response (p=0.007) across sex (p=0.165). Additionally, there was a moderation by age (p=0.014), with less of an association as age increased. Greater current MVPA was also associated with a smaller cortisol response (p=0.044), across age and sex (p’s>0.144). These results suggest that current MVPA may be particularly important when considering pathways between a single bout of exercise and neurocognitive health.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FRAGMENTATION AND FALLS IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Popelsky Braden , Gabriel Kelley Pettee , Dooley Erin , Ylitalo Kelly
Published: January 2025

Physical activity (PA) may be an important fall prevention strategy. Current PA guidelines emphasize total PA dose, but daily patterning of PA is underappreciated. With aging, PA bouts become less frequent and shorter in duration (i.e., more fragmented). PA fragmentation may be an indicator of fall risk, but the relationship is not well understood. This study examined daily PA patterns and fall risk in a sample of older adults from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS; (n=685, 54.3% female, 61.5% aged 70–79 years). Wrist-worn accelerometry from Round 11 (2021) measured PA and surveys from Round 12 (2022) measured falls. PA variables were categorized into tertiles and incident falls were defined as ≥1 self-reported fall in the year following the PA assessment. A modified Poisson approach was used to estimate the relative risk of total PA and PA fragmentation with falls. Overall, 40.0% reported ≥1 incident fall. After adjustment for sociodemographic and health characteristics, those in the highest tertile of total PA accumulation had lower fall risk (aRR=0.74; 95% CI: 0.57, 0.95) and those in the highest tertile of PA fragmentation had increased fall risk (aRR=1.33; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.74) compared to those in the lowest tertiles, respectively. Models were attenuated after the adjustment for physical functioning. PA fragmentation may identify fall risk in older adults. More work is needed to understand the complex relationship between PA and physical functioning across the life-course.
RUNNING, HEALTHY AGING, AND SOCIOCULTURAL CHANGE OVER 50 YEARS: PERSPECTIVES FROM OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Hurtt Barbekka , Hudes Seth , Deters Shana , Allen Josie , Cutforth Asia , Hasche Leslie
Published: January 2025

Running is a relatively easily accessible and perceived low barrier to entry sport for any age. This project goal was to understand how running is conceptualized as part of healthy aging over the past 50 years, given sociocultural and demographic changes that have occurred. Through recruitment on social media, with running groups, and at marathon events, participants completed survey and interview data on their life course experiences with running. Out of 37 survey participants, 5 were aged 61 or older with an average age 71 years old; of 21 interview participants, 5 were aged 61 or older. Survey results indicated that running was perceived as contributing to: a) positive increases in physical health attributes such as bone, cardiovascular, and immune health, muscle strength, and metabolism; and b) slightly or significantly more positive mood; conversely, all participants indicated their mood worsened when taking time off from running. Interview data supported the survey data and revealed positive perspectives of older athletes through phrases such as “motivating, strong, badass, happy, healthy, cool, active;” conversely, the majority of respondents felt “angry, upset, or frustrated” at the phrase “You play/run like an old person.” Slightly more than 50% of participants desired improvement for older adult community athletic opportunities, particularly those related to running. Yet, most older adult participants agreed that they “feel comfortable in my community to achieve my full athletic potential.” Community leaders, health, and aging services should consider opportunities to promote running groups for older adults that support both new and experienced runners.
SKELETAL MUSCLE OXIDATIVE CAPACITY AND LIFE COURSE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN PARTICIPANTS OF THE BLSA
Authors: Moore Ann Zenobia , Tian Teresa , Simonsick Eleanor , Ferrucci Luigi
Published: January 2025

Physical activity has been associated with measures of mitochondrial quality and mitochondrial dysfunction and is connected to many aging processes. However, most studies relating physical activity to mitochondrial measures only capture physical activity over a limited period. The impact of engaging in physical activity across the life course on mitochondrial function has not been fully characterized. Here, in participants of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging we evaluate the association between a summary measure of life course physical activity (LCPA) and mitochondrial oxidative capacity, represented by postexercise phosphocreatine recovery rate (kPCr) in the quadriceps measured through 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The study sample included 416 participants (43.5% male) with complete data. LCPA, derived from a physical activity history questionnaire by ranking participants’ sequences of reported activity intensity, starting with the current decade and ending with the response for physical activity during adolescence, was statistically significantly associated with kPCr (p <.01) in multivariable linear regression models adjusted for demographic characteristics and indicators of current physical activity. The positive association between LCPA and kPCr independent of current physical activity suggests that mitochondrial oxidative capacity in later life may have a cumulative dimension. Our observations demonstrate that even limited information on prior activity may be informative for understanding mitochondrial variability and highlight the importance of exercise across the life course.
THE ROLE OF AGE AND EXERCISE HISTORY IN AFFECTIVE RESPONSE TO ACUTE EXERCISE: PRELIMINARY RESULTS
Authors: Stojanovic Marta , Rushing Baylie , Love Madeleine , Morris John , Head Denise
Published: January 2025

A more positive affective response to acute exercise has been linked to greater physical activity levels. Older adults might experience increased physiological symptoms (e.g., shallow breathing) during acute exercise and subsequently less positive affect post-exercise. Additionally, sedentary individuals were shown to have a more negative affective response. The goals of the study were to examine whether age and exercise history impact the affective response to exercise and its association with overall physical activity levels. Cognitively normal individuals from the Knight ADRC Adult Children Study (n=65; age range 44-85 years) completed an acute bout of moderate-intensity exercise. Affect was measured at baseline, immediately after, 15 minutes, and 30 minutes post-exercise. Participants also completed one week of actigraphy, which provided an objective estimate of their physical activity levels, and a self-report questionnaire about their exercise history over the past 10 years. While positive affect increased immediately post-exercise similarly across age (p=0.103), older individuals showed a quicker return to baseline (p=0.012). Age did not moderate the association between affect and physical activity (p>0.119). Exercise history did not predict affective response (p’s>0.847), however, individuals with greater exercise history showed a stronger association between a more positive affective response and greater physical activity levels (p< 0.001). These results suggest that older individuals might experience a less positive affective response to moderate-intensity exercise. Furthermore, exercise history might be a relevant moderator of the link between affective response and physical activity. Future studies should use a larger sample size and consider additional moderators, including cardiovascular health and sleep.
AGE-RELATED DIFFERENCES IN EVERYDAY SOLITUDE SEEKING WHEN TIME WITH OTHERS FEELS LESS DESIRABLE
Authors: Choi Yoonseok , Kim Hansol , Hoppmann Christiane
Published: January 2025

People spend a significant amount of time by themselves. This project seeks to investigate one potential motive underlying solitude seeking in daily life, namely, to disengage from undesirable social interactions. Social relationships and interactions often involve obligations to others, particularly so in collectivistic cultures; meeting obligations can be taxing when social demands exceed one’s capacity. Seeking solitude may be a way to reduce obligation-related social strains. Additionally, there may be age-related differences in motive strength considering age-related differences in social relationship structures, with higher obligatory demands placed on younger adults (e.g., work, childcare). To examine these ideas, we used 610 repeated daily life assessments (2 times per day for 10 days) collected from an adult lifespan sample of 51 Koreans (Age range: 22-71 years; 65% female, 98% some postsecondary education). Everyday assessments of preference for solitude were predicted by the extent to which previous-day social interactions were deemed voluntary and by their interaction with age. Results based on multilevel modeling showed that while previous-day reductions in voluntary social interaction ratings were not significantly associated with next-day increases in preference for solitude, those who reported generally lower levels of voluntary social interactions showed generally higher preferences for solitude (OR = 0.70, p =.001). Age moderation was significant in the predicted direction with younger age being associated with higher preference for solitude from lower voluntary social interactions (OR = 1.02, p =.002). These results highlight a possibly restorative function of solitude that plays out differently across the adult lifespan.
DOES THE SENSE OF MATTERING BUFFER DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS? EVIDENCE FROM THE CHAT PROGRAM SURVEY
Authors: Yan Mengzhao , Navarro Sheila Salinas , Lomeli Sindy , Wilber Kathleen
Published: January 2025

Sense of mattering refers to a feeling of being valued and important to others. Recognized as a unique construct and a form of psychological capital, mattering has profound implications on health and well-being. Previous research has demonstrated the protective effect of high level of mattering against mental health issues. However, this construct remains understudied in older adults. Employing the baseline survey (N = 2,385, average age = 71) of the “Connecting, Health, Aging, & Technology (CHAT) Program,” an initiative to bridge the digital divide for underserved community-dwelling older adults launched by the California Department of Aging, we examined the association between sense of mattering and depressive symptoms. Older adult participants identified by local area agencies on aging, were assessed and screened into the program. The relationship between participants’ scores on mattering (range 4 to 20) and having depressive symptoms was examined using multivariate logistic regression. After controlling for sociodemographic factors (i.e., age, gender, race/ethnicity, education, marital status), self-rated health, and anxiety, each unit higher level of mattering was associated with 12% lower odds of having depressive symptoms (OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.85 – 0.92). The five-item general mattering scale (Marcus, 1991) showed adequate internal consistency in older adults (Cronbach’s α = 0.80). Our findings highlight the importance of mattering to mental health. We recommend that future policies and programs aimed at improving older adults’ health and well-being (e.g., age-friendly movements, combating ageism, interventions) take boosting sense of mattering into account.
OLDER ADULTS’ INTERACTIONS ON SHORT-FORM VIDEO PLATFORMS ENHANCE THEIR SOCIAL ADAPTATION: A CHAIN MEDIATION MODEL
Authors: Wu Jingxuan , Peng Huamao
Published: January 2025

Background

An increasing number of older adults are embracing short-form video platforms like TikTok. Beyond passive watching, how active engagement by older adults on short-form video platforms influences their social adaptation deserves significant attention. Objective: Explore the effect of interactions on short-form video platforms (e.g., liking, commenting, sharing, and rewarding, etc.) on social adaptation among older adults and examine the chain mediating roles of basic psychological needs satisfaction (competence, autonomy, and relatedness) and attitudes towards self ageing to reveal the underlying psychological mechanism.

Method

Two thousand older adults (aged 55–85 years old, Mage = 60.20±3.88) completed the Social Adaptation Self-evaluation Scale, the Short-form Video Interactive Behavior Questionnaire, the Basic Psychological Needs Scale, and the Attitudes to Ageing Questionnaire. PROCESS Model 6 was used to test a chain multiple mediation model.

Results

Frequent short-form video interactions of older adults not only directly influence their social adaptation level positively but also indirectly contribute to its improvement through more satisfaction of basic psychological needs and greater positive attitudes towards self ageing.

Discussion

More interactions on short-form videos platforms contribute to the satisfaction of older adults’ basic psychological needs. This, in turn, encourages a comparatively positive attitude towards ageing, and ultimately bolstering adaptability across various aspects of later life. This insight motivates older adults to immerse themselves more deeply and actively participate in short-form videos, utilizing the new media application as an emerging space for social engagement, thereby accumulating psychosocial well-being to achieve active and successful aging.
THE PSYCHOSOCIAL EFFECTS OF EXPRESSIVE ARTS THERAPY ON PATIENTS WITH AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION
Authors: Ho Rainbow Tin Hung , Lo Temmy L T , Chan Wai Chi , Cheong Allen M Y , Li Qing , Wan Adrian H Y
Published: January 2025

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of central vision loss in older adults. With irreversible vision loss, patients with AMD also experience psychosocial distress, which is given less attention. This study aims to evaluate the psychosocial effects of Expressive arts therapy (EXAT) on patients with AMD. 33 participants aged 51–74 were randomized into the EXAT (N=20) and control (N=13) group. Participants in the EXAT group received eight weekly 1.5-hour sessions, whereas participants in the control group maintained their usual routine. The psychosocial condition of participants was assessed at baseline (T0) and post-intervention for the EXAT group or 8-week follow-up for the control group (T1). Mann-Whitney U Tests revealed that participants in the EXAT group had significantly higher social support and quality of life in mental health than those in the control group at T0 (Z = -3.231 - -2.093). It also showed that the EXAT group had significantly higher resilience, depressive symptoms, psychosocial adaptation, social support, and quality of life in the ocular pain aspect compared to the control group at T1 (Z = -2.838 - -2.157). Wilcoxon Signed-Ranks Tests found significant improvement in the EXAT group in resilience, psychosocial adaptation in anxiety/depression aspect, and quality of life in role difficulties aspect (Z = -2.255 - -2.017), with no significant changes in the control group across the two times. The results demonstrated that EXAT can potentially enhance patients’ psychosocial well-being with AMD. A larger sample size and follow-up assessments are needed for further investigation.
USING THE INTERPRETIVE FRAMEWORK TO CREATE AND DELIVER MEANINGFUL GROUP ACTIVITIES FOR OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Tulloh Anna , Westmore Megan , Anderson Keith , Mauldin Rebecca
Published: January 2025

Activity programming is recognized as a vital component in supporting engagement and improving quality of life for older adults. Despite the ubiquity of such programs and a plethora of research exploring both why meaningful activities are important for older adults and what makes an activity meaningful, current guidelines for activity development fail to offer a standardized framework. Without a clear framework for developing meaningful group activities, a potential for inconsistencies in activity appeal, quality, and effectiveness exists. This paper suggests an innovative solution by drawing on the field of interpretation—a discipline traditionally associated with environmental, historical, and cultural education. Interpretation provides principles and practical guidance for creating engaging, relevant, enjoyable, and personalized experiences for a wide range of audiences. In this paper, we present a brief history of interpretation and describe its principles, applications, and the “interpretative equation.” Using data from field notes collected during a study of an online nature-based group activity in an assisted living community, we describe how the program was developed, implemented and adapted in alignment with the elements of the interpretive equation. This equation combines activity-related knowledge (e.g. gaining a deeper understanding of the environment presented online), an understanding of participants (e.g. increasing knowledge of individual’s dementia-related support needs), and appropriate techniques (e.g., incorporating reminiscence) to achieve an interpretive “opportunity” (i.e., a meaningful activity in our formulation). Our results demonstrate how interpretation can be a powerful tool in bridging the gap between the theory and practice of meaningful activity development.
FLOURISHCARE MODEL OF INTEGRATED CARE: THE VALIDATION OF THE FLOURISH INDEX-REVISED (FI-R)
Authors: Faul Anna , Cotton Samantha , Yankeelov Pamela , Gordon Barbara
Published: January 2025

The FlourishCare (FC) Model for geriatric primary care brings professional disciplines across the continuum of care together to provide quality integrated age-friendly healthcare to older adults with multiple chronic conditions (MCCs). This integrated care model is backed by research demonstrating the efficacy of a comprehensive approach to healthcare by ensuring that services are well-coordinated across the entire spectrum of a person’s health needs. This study validates the Flourish Index–Revised (FI-R), a tool evaluating integrated care models. The FI-R uses 25 quality-of-care indicators and 7 contextual community indicators. The FI-R was validated with Categorial Principal Components Analysis (CATPCA) using a sample of 949 patients 50+ who were mostly female (73%), Non-Hispanic White (70%), living in urban areas (90%), and married (29%), single (22%) or divorced (19%). The mean age was 73.46 (SD=10.86) and mean years of education was 14.30 (SD=2.14). CATPCA showed a four-dimensional structure of biological, psychological, and two social determinants of health (SDOH) subdomains: health behaviors and community. Final selection of indicators was based on total variance accounted for >0.30, absolute values of item loadings >0.45, and not having cross loadings >0.45 on two factors. Internal consistency (Cronbach Alpha) for the determinants were: biological=0.75, psychological=0.76, SDOH: community=0.70, SDOH: Health Behaviors=0.50 and total FI-R=0.95. Sensitivity to change was shown for the total FI-R, psychological determinants, and SDOH:health behaviors but not for biological determinants. The validation of the FI-R shows promise for its usability to evaluate integrated health care models using existing measures in electronic health systems.