bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
GEROPSYCHOLOGY STUDENTS’ EXPERIENCES OF THE INTERNSHIP MATCH AND IMPLICATIONS FOR TRAINING
Authors: Bloom-Charette Lisa 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
There has been little literature on the effectiveness of the clinical psychology internship match program within the specialty of geropsychology. This study reports student responses to a 2018 survey conducted by the Council of Professional Geropsychology Training Programs (CoPGTP). Students reported that they completed a mean of 18.4 (SD = 7.23) internship applications, and had a mean of 8.4 (SD = 2.3) interviews. Compared to generalists, geropsychology students applied to and interviewed at more programs, felt slightly less supported, but matched more frequently at their first choice site. All respondents matched to generalist rather than geropsychology programs, and all matched to their first ranked programs. The majority of students felt strongly supported, and noted that seminars, essay review, and the Pike’s Peak training model were important resources. Reasons for not choosing geropsychology programs included geographical preferences and the belief that adequate geropsychology training can be obtained in a generalist track.
PREDICTORS OF INTENTION TO WORK WITH OLDER ADULTS: THE CASE FOR STUDYING SOCIAL NORMS
Authors: Graham Kirsten 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The expanding population of older adults, coupled with provider hesitance, is expected to result in a large service gap in the healthcare field. Research has largely focused on the impact of attitudes toward older adults and professional competency, with some recent explorations of social influences. There is currently no comprehensive measure that includes all of these areas. The present study outlines the development of the Working with Older Adults Scale (WOAS), which is grounded in the theory of planned behavior. Results indicated that the measure has an excellent factor structure and good internal reliability and construct validity. Intention to work with older adults was significantly predicted by attitudes, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control, with subjective norm accounting for the greatest amount of variance. The WOAS offers new insights and ideas for future exploration of the service gap between older adults needs and professional availability across health service fields.
HIS AND HER EVERYDAY LIFE: GENDER DIFFERENCES IN OLDER ADULTS’ SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Authors: Huo Meng , Fingerman Karen L , Ng Yee To 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The literature links social integration to better physical health, but little research asks how contact with diverse social partners influences older adults’ physical activity in a daily context. We examined this link using the Daily Experiences and Well-being Study and explored whether this link varied by gender. The sample included 175 older women and 138 older men who reported their contact with close partners (e.g., family/friend) and not-close partners (e.g., acquaintances) throughout each day across 5 days. Participants also wore Actical accelerometers to track physical activity. Multilevel models revealed significant gender differences. Older men had reduced physical activity when having contact with close partners, whereas older women maintained physical activity during such contact. Both older men and women had increased physical activity when having contact with not-close partners, but this link was stronger for men. This study advances our understanding of gender differences in older adults’ social experiences and well-being.
BEYOND REPRODUCTION: EXPLORING DETERMINANTS OF FUNCTIONAL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING IN AGING WOMEN
Authors: Germain Cassandra M 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The goal of this symposium is to explore the various factors that influence functional health and general well-being in women during late life. We will explore 1) the role of depression on functional impairment in a group of diverse community dwelling women; 2) the relationship between chronic pain and depression, as well as strategies for intervention; 3) the desire for sexual intimacy among older women and it’s relationship to wellbeing and 4) the importance of physical appearance in older women and its association with self confidence and wellbeing.
DISPARITIES OF DENTAL CARE AND CONSEQUENCE OF POOR ORAL HEALTH AMONG OLDER ADULTS IN THE U.S.
Authors: Wu Yanyan , Zhang Wei , Wu Bei 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Oral health is an essential part of staying healthy. Neglect of dental care may lead to tooth decay/ loss, poor nutrition, and affects individuals’ quality of life. Over the past decades, dental care utilization has risen considerably, however, racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities still persist in the U.S. Additionally, poor oral health is a contributing factor to, and a consequence of chronic diseases such as cognitive impairment, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Faced with the complex and intertwined health and social challenges, it’s imperative to understand the disparities of dental care utilization and the relationships among oral health and chronic diseases so that effective policies and preventions can be implemented to improve quality of care. In this symposium, we present findings for older adults from diverse racial/ethnic populations in the U.S. We begin with results from two national-wide trend analyses: a 15-year review of dental care utilization and the evaluation of dental care performance over a 16-year period in nursing homes. The next study presents the barriers of dental care utilization in Hawaii. Finally, we present results of the negative effects of diabetes and poor oral health on cognitive function. Our studies address the disparities of dental care utilization among minority and under-represented ethnic groups as well as the connections between oral health and chronic conditions. Our results are helpful in educating policy makers and health practitioners about how to improve dental care and how dental care can be effectively integrated into chronic disease prevention and health promotion activities.
DISCORDANT CHRONIC CONDITIONS AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AMONG MIDDLE-AGED AND OLDER COUPLES
Authors: Polenick Courtney A , Birditt Kira S , Turkelson Angela , Bugajski Benjamin , Kales Helen C 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Discordant chronic conditions (i.e., those with competing management requirements) have adverse consequences for well-being, yet little is known about their implications among couples. We evaluated how depressive symptoms are linked to discordant conditions within individuals and between spouses across an 8-year period. The U.S. sample included 1,116 middle-aged and older couples from five waves (2006 – 2014) of the Health and Retirement Study. Longitudinal actor-partner interdependence models controlled for age, minority status, education, depressive symptoms in the previous wave, and each partner’s report of baseline marital quality and number of chronic conditions in each wave. Wives and husbands with their own discordant conditions reported higher depressive symptoms, and this association intensified over time. Over and above this link, husbands had higher depressive symptoms when there were discordant conditions between spouses. Both individual-level and couple-level discordant chronic conditions appear to have enduring implications for depressive symptoms in middle and later life.
HOME VIDEO TELEHEALTH TO SUPPORT RURAL VETERAN CAREGIVERS
Authors: Hicken Bret , Grant Marren , Turner Christopher , Reynolds Christy , Wright Pamela 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
VA offers multiple programs and services to support caregivers of US military Veterans. However, access for rural Veterans and caregivers is challenging due to distance from VA medical facilities. VA Video Connect (VVC) is a remote healthcare platform that enables Veterans to connect directly with VA clinicians through a secure, encrypted video connection. Rural caregivers and Veterans can participate in caregiver services through their own computer or another device from their home, reducing the need for travel to distant VA facilities. In 2018, VA’s Caregiver Support Program and Office of Rural Health developed an implementation pilot to engage eighteen VA Caregiver Support Coordinators (CSCs) in using VVC to monitor and support 180 Veteran/caregiver dyads enrolled in VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. The presentation will provide an overview of each phase of implementation, report usability and outcome data from CSCs and caregivers, and discuss implications for broader implementation.
COMPARING THE PROGNOSTIC VALUE OF GERIATRIC HEALTH INDICATORS: A POPULATION-BASED STUDY
Authors: Zucchelli Alberto , Vetrano Davide , Grande Giulia , Calderon-Larranaga Amaia , Fratiglioni Laura , Marengoni Alessandra , Rizzuto Debora 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Several indicators associated with poor outcomes in older persons have been developed, but a direct comparison of their accuracy is lacking. Knowing which indicator performs better in the prediction of specific outcomes could help health care providers to choose the most suitable one. We compared the accuracy in predicting different clinically-relevant outcomes of five indicators: frailty index (FI), frailty phenotype (FP), the Health Assessment Tool (HAT), walking speed (WS), and multimorbidity. Data from the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care in Kungsholmen, an ongoing population-based study including 3363 people 60+, were used. The ability of the five indicators to predict mortality (3- and 5-year), unplanned hospitalizations (1- and 3-year), and 2+ health provider contacts (6 months prior and after assessment) was compared using the area under the ROC curves (AUC). FI, WS, and HAT showed the best accuracy in the prediction of mortality (AUC for 3-year mortality: 0.84, 0.85, 0.87 respectively; AUC for 5-year mortality: 0.84, 0.85, 0.86 respectively; all p &lt; 0.05). Unplanned hospitalizations were better predicted by the FI (AUC: 1-year 0.73; 3-year 0.72) and HAT (AUC: 1-year 0.73; 3-year 0.71).The most accurate predictor of multiple contacts with health providers was multimorbidity (AUC: 0.67; p &lt; 0.05). All indicators, but multimorbidity, showed higher accuracy among older individuals (75+ years). Different indicators can be used to support physicians during their decision-making process. Some of these tools may also be used to forecast future use of health-care resources, including both hospital-based services and outpatient ones .
COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE, EXERCISE, AND AMYLOID BURDEN: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL
Authors: Watts Amber , Vidoni Eric , Morris Jill , Perry Mark , Johnson David , Burns Jeffrey 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Exercise is a promising strategy for prevention of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Amyloid neuroimaging can identify individuals at risk of developing AD prior to displaying symptoms. We screened adults (65+) with Florbetapir PET imaging and a comprehensive cognitive battery. We randomized 117 participants with normal cognition into a 52-week aerobic exercise program to examine the effects of aerobic exercise on cognitive performance. We compared an intensive exercise treatment group to a standard of care control group. Cognition was assessed at baseline, 26 weeks, and 52 weeks in the domains of verbal memory, visuospatial processing, attention, and executive function. Interim results on 87 participants show cardiorespiratory fitness improved in the exercise group vs. control group (t=3.66(81), p&lt; .001). The degree of change in cardiorespiratory fitness did not differ between those with and without elevated amyloid (t=-0.37(81), p=.710). Greater improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness predicted better performance on cognitive tests including trailmaking test, Stroop test, and digit symbol substitution test, which did not differ by amyloid status. Elevated amyloid levels predicted lower cognitive scores in logical memory, space relations, and identical pictures test. Our findings suggest PET imaging is a valid marker of cognitive performance in non-impaired older adults, and that this pre-clinical amyloid status did not reduce the cognitive benefits of exercise for those who improved in cardiorespiratory fitness. Exercise interventions hold promise for cognitive maintenance among pre-symptomatic older adults with elevated amyloid levels. Finally, results highlight the importance of evaluating multiple cognitive domains which are associated differently with exercise and amyloid status.
FOLLOW-UP OF A 6-MONTH LOW-TO-MODERATE INTENSITY VIRTUAL-HOME EXERCISE PROGRAM TO PREVENT FALLS
Authors: Tomita Machiko R , Fisher Nadine M 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The aim of this study is to determine 3-month post effects of and adherence to a 6-month virtual-group exercise at home (V-GEAH) program, which offered low-to-moderate intensity exercise to community-dwelling older adults with past falls. The V-GEAH program converted solitary exercise to group exercise connecting participants via web-conference technology. A treatment group (n=25, 60 – 90 years old) exercised three times a week for 30-45 minutes each session. The program achieved 84.4% – 93.3% adherence, reducing fall risks. This study measured falls, balance confidence, lower extremity muscle strength and endurance, gait speed, stride length, and activities of daily living, and compared with baseline and posttest (at 6 months) data using Repeated measures ANOVA with contrasts. During the follow-up period, 40% of the treatment group exercised 2+ times/week (Adherer, or A), and 60% did 1 time/week or less (Non-adherer or NA). Half of NA joined a community exercise group and the rest did not do exercise due to pain in various body parts. None of A fell while 26.7% of NA and 20% of C did. At follow-up, the control group (C, n=25) showed no change or significant decline from posttest for all measures. A maintained gains made in the intervention period in all measures, but NA significantly lost strength in hamstrings, hip abduction, and quadriceps and hamstring endurance. These results indicate that low-to-moderate intensity exercise and technology use for providing visual instruction, regular monitoring and evaluation, and environments to increase participants’ accountability are elements for successful home-based exercise programs.
RESPONDERS TO A PHYSICAL ACTIVITY COACHING PROGRAM IN COPD
Authors: Nguyen Huong Q , Liu Amy , Lee Janet , Xiang Anny 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Rationale: Physical inactivity is associated with worse outcomes in COPD. There remains a critical gap regarding the real-world effectiveness of improving physical activity (PA) in large representative samples of older adults with COPD and its impact on hospitalizations. Methods: A pragmatic randomized trial was conducted to determine the effectiveness of a 12-month home-based physical activity coaching intervention (Walk On!, WO) compared to standard care (SC) in 2,707 patients at high risk for COPD exacerbations. The WO intervention included collaborative monitoring of steps, semi-automated step goal recommendations, individualized reinforcement, and peer/family support. This is a subgroup analysis of 321 patients who were randomized to WO and participated in the program, matched to SC patients based on their propensity scores (PS). Multivariate cox proportional hazards models were used to determine differences in all-cause hospitalizations in the 12-months following randomization. Results: WO patients with low PS (n=160) were matched to 888 low PS SC patients and 161 WO patients with high PS (n=161) were matched to 405 high PS SC patients. Characteristics of the cohort were: age: 72±10; 54% females; 74% Caucasian; FEV1% predicted: 61±23. WO-low PS patients had lower risk of all-cause hospitalizations compared to SC-low PS patients [HR:0.69, (95%CI, 0.50, 0.96), P=.03]. WO-high PS patients did not have significantly lower hospitalization risk compared to SC-high PS patients [HR:0.87, (95%CI, 0.64, 1.20), P=.40]. Conclusions: Patients with COPD who had a lower propensity to participate in the physical activity coaching intervention had lower hospitalization risks compared to those with a higher participation propensity.
AN OLDER CARER, BUT STILL A CHILD: UNEXPECTED IDENTITIES OF OLDER ADULTS CARING FOR A NEAR-CENTENARIAN PARENT
Authors: Riberio Oscar , Macedo Typhanie , Sousa Liliana 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
According to the National Alliance for Caregiving (2015), the typical definition of an older adult caregiver points to a 79-year-old white female who cares for a close relative due to a long-term physical condition; in such cases the care-recipient is often a spouse, an adult child or a sibling, but not a parent. This cross-sectional qualitative study explores the experience of a group of fifteen children in their 70s who are main care-providers of their parents (mean age 98; range 95-105); it focuses on their overall caregiving experience with a particular emphasis on how they feel being still a child at such an advanced age. In-depth interviews were conducted and analyzed for recurrent themes using thematic analysis. Main findings revealed that although being in an overall positive experience, often socially exalted (proudness of having a parent alive/being in an unique situation), none had expected to be holding the identity of a child at their current age. These children’s views of their ageing self were strongly embedded in their caregiving role, and some reported losing awareness of their own age and a mixture of feelings of being simultaneously a child, a parent and a grandparent. Role captivity (late life prison) and disregarding self-care shaped their current situation in terms of caregiving burden and altered life plans as older adults. This study adds to the limited available knowledge on very old caregiving dyads, and raises awareness on how personal and family identity may be shaped in older age by unforeseen family dynamics.
HEALTH CARE PROVIDER ATTITUDES ABOUT INTEGRATING FAMILY CAREGIVERS INTO CLINICAL ENCOUNTERS
Authors: Griffin Joan M , Havyer Rachel , Schaepe Karen , Riffin Catherine , Bangerter Lauren R 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The presence of family caregivers in clinical encounters is becoming more common with the aging of the US population and the continued shift of care responsibilities from health professionals in clinical settings to family caregivers at home. Patients accompanied to clinical encounters by caregivers are more likely to be older, sicker, and have lower health literacy. Research shows, however, that providers often do not initiate any caregiver participation and when they do, conversations center on relaying technical medical information rather than preferences and capacity to provide caregiving assistance. Little is known about provider perceptions of engaging caregivers in clinical encounters. Using data from 20 semi-structured interviews with physicians from primary and specialty care, we identified 3 inter-related themes about engaging caregivers in clinical encounters: 1) ambivalence about caregivers’ role in clinical encounters; 2) trepidation about posing questions directly to caregivers; and, 3) beliefs that systemic barriers exist that inhibit integration of caregivers. Providers, especially in primary care encounters, chiefly view caregivers as sources of supplemental information or for absorbing or reinforcing clinical instructions for care at home. Providers also voiced concerns about the ethics of assessing caregiver capacity to provide assistance to the patient without having clinical authority to treat or adequate resources to provide to caregivers. Finally, providers identified structural barriers, including time constraints, for integrating caregivers into the clinical care team. Findings provide insight into provider attitudes on the caregivers’ role, a perspective that is essential for understanding opportunities and challenges for implementing caregiver interventions in clinical settings.
PROVIDING AND RECEIVING FAMILY CARE ACROSS THE LIFE COURSE: INSIGHTS FROM THE OLDEST OLD
Authors: Patskanick Taylor , Miller Julie , Lee Chaiwoo , D’Ambrosio Lisa 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Unprecedented longevity comes with an increased need for providing and receiving care. A 2015 report estimated 39.8 million adults in the United States provided unpaid care to an adult in 2014 (NAC & AARP). Previous research has focused disproportionately on experiences of providing care to older adults, but little has explored experiences of providing care and receiving care among the oldest old. Adults aged 85 and older are likely to have provided care to an adult family member at some point in their lives, but now may be receiving care themselves. The presentation will report on findings from a mixed methods study investigating the experiences of providing and receiving care across the life course among a sample of the “oldest old.” Data draw from focus groups and a survey with the MIT AgeLab Lifestyle Leaders, a bimonthly panel study of adults ages 85 and older. Findings suggest the Lifestyle Leaders had extensive experience providing care, particularly in older age. They most often cared for family members with long-term physical or cognitive conditions. Opinions on learning new technologies to help with caregiving and robot caregivers were mixed. The majority of the Lifestyle Leaders received regular help with at least one care task regardless of household composition or living situation. Many reported help had improved their health, but they felt like a burden to their caregivers. Even in later life, the Lifestyle Leaders had few ideas about who might take care of them if they needed care in the future.
HIGHER COPING SELF-EFFICACY ASSOCIATED WITH LOW SELF-PERCEIVED LONELINESS IN OLDER ADULTS WITH CHRONIC DISEASE
Authors: Hladek Melissa D , Nersesian Paula V , Cudjoe Thomas K , Gill Jessica M , Szanton Sarah L 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Loneliness is an emotional state involving social network perceptions and linked to worse health outcomes. Coping self-efficacy evaluates confidence in ability to manage problems effectively using problem-solving, emotional regulation and social coping. The purpose of this cross-sectional study (N=151 community dwelling adults ages ≥ 65) was to evaluate associations between loneliness and coping self-efficacy. All participants had at least one chronic condition and were cognitively intact. In this sample, 32.08% were lonely (score ≥ 5 on UCLA 3-item loneliness scale (range 3-9). Higher coping self-efficacy was significantly associated with low loneliness after adjustment for age, sex, race/ethnicity, social support, depressive symptoms, body mass index, and a chronic disease-function score (β= -0.03, p=0.014). Causality could not be assessed; higher loneliness may lead to lower self-efficacy or lower self-efficacy may lead to higher loneliness. Nonetheless, loneliness and self-efficacy are both modifiable with great potential for improvement, possibly bettering health outcomes.