bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
GENOME-WIDE ANALYSIS OF LOW STRENGTH IN OLDER PEOPLE: META-ANALYSIS OF &gt;250,000 VOLUNTEERS IN 16 COHORTS
Authors: Jones Garan , Pilling Luke C , Melzer David 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Dynapenia or muscle weakness is a core feature of sarcopenia and frailty, and leads to significant functional impairment in older adults. We aimed to identify genetic variants associated with dynapenia in older adults, to shed light on the underlying mechanisms. A large-scale meta-analysis of &gt;250,000 volunteers of European descent from 16 cohorts in the CHARGE and GEFOS consortia aged 60+ years at assessment is underway, using maximum hand grip strength to define dynapenia. Preliminary analysis in UK Biobank found that dynapenia is associated with nine genomic loci at genome wide significance (p&lt;5x10-8), with differences between men and women, suggesting sex-specific routes to dynapenia. These results suggest that there are specific genetic determinants of low strength in older adults, and these differ from the determinants of normal-range strength differences. The full meta-analysis of all cohorts will extend these findings. Understanding the biological mechanisms may lead to geroscience interventions.
THE FLUID COMPLEXITY OF RESIDENTIAL CHOICES IN LATER LIFE
Authors: Gubrium Jaber F 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Serious attention to the fluid complexity of lived experience throws intriguing light on residential choices in later life. Fluidity comes in the form of time, which shifts in both novel and patterned ways as one ages. Decisions in time not only follow well-documented patterns, but interpersonal and intersectional considerations, both retrospectively and prospectively, can alter the essential meaning and consequences of ostensible patterns in the matter. Complexity emerges when the interconnected meanings of individual variables are taken into account. Working together, fluidity and complexity turn what is otherwise well-documented into what might be called forms of “assemblage” of accountability and decision-making in residential choices.
EARLY-LIFE SOCIOECONOMIC POSITION AND ACCUMULATION OF HEALTH-RELATED DEFICITS IN MIDLIFE
Authors: Rogers Nina , Power Chris , Pereira Snehal P 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Improved understanding of predictors of frailty is key to delaying its onset. Yet, few studies have examined whether early-life socioeconomic position (SEP) predicts frailty in midlife. In the 1958 British Birth Cohort (n=7601), we examined (i) associations between early-life SEP and frailty at 50y and (ii) whether associations were due to continuities in disadvantage into mid-adulthood. Frailty was measured using an index composed of 37 health-deficits. Associations between early-life SEP and frailty were examined using linear regression. Lower early-life SEP was associated with higher frailty, e.g. compared to professional/managerial class, the frailty index was higher by 3.09% (95% CI:-0.65%, 6.84%) for skilled non-manual, 10.8% (8.20%, 13.4%) for skilled manual and 14.2% (11.1%, 17.2%) for partly skilled/unskilled. After adjustment for adult disadvantage, the trend remained, albeit weaker. Findings suggest that interventions in mid-adulthood targeted to those exposed to early-life disadvantage could reduce the risk of developing frailty when entering later life.
BARRIERS AND FACILITATORS TO DELIVERING PERSON-CENTERED NUTRITION FOR ASIAN AMERICANS IN ADULT DAY HEALTH SETTINGS
Authors: Sadarangani Tina , Trinh-Shevrin Chau , Brody Abraham 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Malnutrition is a growing problem in community-based long-term care settings. Delivering person-centered nutrition is particularly important in congregate settings serving ethnically diverse older adults who have strong culturally-derived preferences around food. We conducted in-depth semi-structured multi-stakeholder interviews (N = 13) in an adult day health center (ADHC) serving Asian immigrants to explore the ADHC’s capacity to deliver person-centered nutrition interventions. Thematic analysis showed ADHCs successfully promoted social interaction at meal-time. However, participants had limited choice and restrictions on additives, like sodium, making it difficult to honor participants’ cultural preferences. Lack of flavor, limited choice, and rushed mealtimes, driven by center policies and procedures, disproportionately affected persons with dementia. Among those with dementia, clinicians disagreed whether nutrition should be used to manage chronic illness or whether a more palliative approach was warranted. One potential way to address this challenge would be to enable greater choice within a supportive ADHC mealtime environment.
PARTNERING WITH NUTRITION SERVICES PROGRAM PROVIDERS TO DISSEMINATE EVIDENCE-BASED PROGRAMS USING TELE-HEALTH
Authors: Beasley Jeannette , Wylie-Rosett Judith , Sevick Mary Ann , DeLuca Laura , Chodosh Joshua 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Among adults ≥ age 65, 48% have prediabetes and are eligible to participate in the Medicare-covered Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP). We conducted a six-week pilot study to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a telehealth-adapted DPP for Nutrition Services Program (NSP) older adult meal program recipients. We enrolled NSP recipients (n=16) from a New York City senior center. These DPP participants attended weekly interactive DPP webinars and completed questionnaires covering lifestyle, physical activity, quality of life, and food records, and wore physical activity trackers. Retention was 75%; attendance averaged 80%; and weight loss was 2.9% (p=0.001). Our six-week pilot data suggest that a tele-adapted DPP intervention can achieve the Medicare reimbursement goals for attendance and 5% weight loss. We are surveying NSP recipients, who receive home-delivered meals, to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of conducting a larger scale tele-adapted DPP intervention trial among NSP participants.
CREATING NEW MODELS FOR AGING IN PLACE: DIVERSE COMMUNITIES AND THE NAVIGATION OF LONG-TERM SERVICES AND SUPPORTS
Authors: Ring Lauren , Liebman Michael , Glicksman Allen , Rodriguez Misha 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
There is a growing interest among aging services providers to better understand the pathways through which older adults and their caregivers navigate LTSS. Although there have been attempts at modeling this process they are often dependent on the quality of existing data, which can result in models which are incomplete and study samples that homogenize diverse older adult populations. These models face two challenges – 1) the data may not include information about important elements of the LTSS navigation process, and 2) the actions of ethnic/cultural sub-groups may not be captured. This study uses a conceptual method called Social Interaction Modeling (SIM) to examine how older adults in two limited English-speaking communities (Spanish / Mandarin Chinese) navigate the use of LTSS and to evaluate disparities in service access. The findings will help to build a more comprehensive model which looks at service navigation among all older adults in Philadelphia.
PREVALENCE AND HERITABILITY OF PERCEIVED MENTAL FATIGABILITY IN THE LONG LIFE FAMILY STUDY
Authors: Meinhardt Alexa J , Gmelin Theresa , Kuipers Allison L , Andersen Stacy L , Cosentino Stephanie , Wojczynski Mary K , Christensen Kaare , Glynn Nancy W 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
We examined the prevalence and heritability of perceived mental fatigability among older adults enrolled in the Long Life Family Study. Participants (N=2342; 55% female) self-administered the Pittsburgh Fatigability Scale (PFS; scores range 0-50; higher score=greater fatigability). Using the PFS mental subscale, we evaluated differences across age strata (adjusted for family structure and field center) and estimated genetic heritability using the variance covariance methods implemented in SOLAR to determine genetic heritability (adjusted for age, sex, and field center). PFS mental score (mean±SD) and prevalence of higher mental fatigability (PFS ≥13) was greater across age strata: 60-69 (N=996, 5.9± 6.5, 14.5%), 70-79 (N=830, 6.8 ±7.6, 18.7%), 80-89 (N=251, 11.7±10.8, 41.8%), and ≥90 (N=265, 20.2±13.6, 67.2%), p&lt;0.0001. Only among those ≥90, females (21.7±13.5) had greater mental fatigability than males (18.0±13.5), p=0.03. Residual heritability of mental fatigability was 0.17, p&lt;0.0001. Future analyses will evaluate correlates of mental fatigability to identify potential avenues for intervention.
IDENTIFYING HOUSING PREFERENCES IN AN AGE-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY
Authors: Pope Natalie , Gibson Allison 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
More than a decade ago, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) age-friendly cities and communities program was established to guide communities in preparing for rapid population aging. WHO identified eight domains of livability that influence health and wellbeing of older adults—housing, one of the eight domains is the focus of this study. Partnering with our local Age Friendly initiative, we examined housing preferences and values for residents of a mid-sized urban community. A cross-sectional survey was administered online via Qualtrics and through face-to-face data collection across the community (e.g., public libraries, community farmers’ markets). Participants aged 30+ completed a researcher-devised survey about housing-related preferences and values. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Of our 518 respondents, half were 60+ and most were women (73.2%). Younger respondents (age 30-59) were more likely to be married or living with a partner (73.7%). There was little difference in housing preferences between older and younger respondents or among those with varying financial means. Analysis revealed the top five housing considerations were: “safety” (78.8%), “affordability” (73.2%), “privacy” (51.9%), “proximity to services I frequently use” (50.6%), and “accessibility” (42.4%). An unexpected finding was that almost 50% of older respondents expressed a willingness to share a home with a roommate. Data suggests that city planners and property developers should prioritize these preferences when planning for the housing related needs of older residents. Alternative housing models, such as cohousing, should be explored further. Future research should examine interpretation of such housing preferences (i.e., what’s considered affordable?).
MIND THE GAP: FINDINGS FROM THE AGE-FRIENDLY OXFORD COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT
Authors: Young Meghan A , Dhakal Usha , Kessler Valerie L , Kunkel Suzanne R 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
In November 2017, Oxford, OH joined the AARP network of Age-Friendly Communities (AFCs). The first step in building an action plan through the AARP process is conducting a community needs assessment. Scripps Gerontology Center adapted the AARP Community Survey Questionnaire and mailed surveys to a random sample of 700 Oxford residents aged 50 years and older. The response rate was 46.8%. For seven of the eight domains of livability, individuals were asked how important is it to have particular services in the community (Likert scale) and whether the community provides the services (response options: yes, no, not sure). The responses to these questions were used to calculate a perceived gap score. The purpose of this project was to identify which domains had the largest perceived gaps, then further analyze individual item gaps. The three domains with the largest gaps were transportation (50.6%), housing (47.7%), and health (46.2%). Further analysis of the 60 individual domain items provided information about the type of gap. For example, 84% of respondents found the item “affordable public transportation” important. However, of those who said it is important, 73% perceived a gap in service provision, and 64% of the gap was due to not knowing if Oxford provides it. Communities may interpret a “not sure” gap as an opportunity to restructure how they promote services to older individuals. Implications of this research include proposing different ways of analyzing needs assessment data so AFCs can make efficient and effective changes for older adults to age in place.
AGE-FRIENDLY COMMUNITIES: ENHANCING COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Authors: Oh Patricia A 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Age-friendly communities promote active, healthy, socially connected aging. Opportunities for social connections are key for older residents to enjoy the best possible health and well-being. Communities that join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities (AARP NAFSC) include an aging lens in eight areas of community life—social participation, respect and social inclusion, civic participation and employment, communication and information, housing, transportation, community support and health services, and outdoor spaces and buildings. By addressing factors in these eight areas, communities encourage residents to enjoy formal participation in activities and groups and informal contacts with friends, neighbors and other residents. The purpose of this exploratory study was to find out if communities that join the AARP NAFSC plan and implement changes to enhance social connectedness. A review of 62 AARP-approved action plans nationwide, showed that social connectedness was included in 74% of the mission statements and was a goal in 92% of the plans. The lack of resources in rural communities creates special challenges; many age-friendly initiatives depend on community volunteers to implement changes on a shoe-string budget. To learn how rural age-friendly communities promote social connections, an email survey was distributed to 46 AARP NAFSC communities in rural Maine. All the communities responded. Fostering social connectedness was an explicit goal for 88% of the communities. Areas of implementation included services and activities (83%), communication (61%), transportation (30%), programming to include isolated residents (26%), accessible public spaces (22%), and intergenerational volunteering (17%). Implications will be discussed.
THE ROLE OF POLYGENIC SCORE AND COGNITIVE ACTIVITIES ON COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING OF OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Shin Su Hyun , Park Soohyun , Kim Giyeon 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Purpose of study: This study investigated whether and to what extent genetics for cognition and engagement in cognitive activities are related to trajectories of cognitive functioning in older adulthood. Furthermore, we explored whether engaging in cognitive activities could moderate the effect of genetic traits on cognitive functioning in general and across different dimensions: fluid and crystallized intelligence. Design and Methods: Growth curve models were estimated using the sample of 3,129 individuals aged 50 or older (10,000 observations) in the U.S. from 2000-2012 waves of the Health and Retirement Study. Polygenic score for general cognition (PGS) was used to measure genetic traits for cognition, and the number of hours spent per week on each of nine cognitive activities was used to measure individuals’ level of the engagement in cognitive activities. Results: PGS for cognition, reading books, using a computer, and playing cards/games/solving puzzles had positive effects on cognitive functioning. The positive effect of PGS on cognitive functioning was reduced from excessive TV watching. The positive effect of PGS on cognitive functioning was strengthened by spending more hours reading papers/magazines. The measure of fluid, rather than crystallized intelligence, appeared to drive these results. Conclusion: Findings suggests that while genetic factors predict cognitive functioning, engaging in different types of cognitive activities could yield different cognitive functioning trajectories in later life. Practical implications are that older adults should be more selective when choosing their leisure activities to promote cognitive health.
FASTING-MIMICKING DIET REDUCES RISK FACTORS FOR AGING-RELATED DISEASES IN PRECLINICAL AND CLINICAL STUDIES
Authors: Brandhorst Sebastian 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Prolonged fasting promotes stress resistance, but its effects on longevity are poorly understood. Calorie restriction or major dietary composition changes can have profound effects on healthy aging but the inability of many subjects to adhere to chronic and extreme diets together with the potential of adverse effects limit their application. Fasting-mimicking diets (FMDs) are effective in increasing health and lifespan, possibly by inducing stem cell-based regeneration, or as therapies in mouse models of a variety of diseases. FMDs reduce cancer incidence/progression, modulate the immune response, reduce immuno-senescence, ameliorate or reverse disease progression of multiple sclerosis, Type I and Type II diabetes, and reverse inflammatory bowel disease pathology. In a randomized clinical trial, markers/risk factors for metabolic syndrome and other age-related diseases were favorably impacted after completion of 3 FMD cycles. These effects were larger in participants at risk for age-related diseases. Conclusions: We conclude that the FMD was safe and feasible in rodent and human studies. Larger studies on patients with diagnosed diseases are necessary to determine its impact on diabetes and cardiovascular disease treatment.
SEX DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ATTITUDES TOWARD MEDICATIONS AND POOR ANTIHYPERTENSIVE MEDICATION ADHERENCE IN ELDERLY
Authors: Johnson Taylor , Peacock Erin , Silver Julia , Marsh James , Petty Richard , Krousel-Wood M A 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Despite its importance for blood pressure control, antihypertensive medication adherence remains a challenge in older adults. Explicit and implicit attitudinal ambivalence toward medications (holding both positive and negative explicit attitudes, and discrepant explicit and implicit attitudes, respectively) may underlie low adherence. We examined whether race, age, or sex affect the associations between attitudes, ambivalence, and adherence. A questionnaire and implicit association test captured medication attitudes from hypertensive adults aged ≥55 (n=199). Adherence was measured with the Krousel-Wood Medication Adherence Scale (K-Wood-MAS-4). Higher scores on the attitudes and adherence scales indicate more positive attitudes and worse adherence, respectively. Associations and effect modification by sex, race (white vs. nonwhite), and age (&lt;65 vs. ≥65) were tested in separate ordinary least squares regressions. The sample was 51.0% female, 43.7% nonwhite, 35.5% aged ≥65, with mean K-Wood-MAS-4 0.64 (SD=0.88). Better adherence was associated with more positive net explicit attitudes (β=-0.18, 95% CI -0.30, -0.06, p=0.003), and worse adherence with higher explicit ambivalence (β=-0.05, 95% CI 0.01, 0.09, p=0.028). The associations with explicit attitudes and explicit ambivalence were significant for men (β=-0.30, 95% CI -0.48, -0.11, p=0.002 and β=0.09, 95% CI 0.03, 0.15, p=0.005, respectively) but not for women (β=-0.07, 95% CI -0.423, 0.09, p=0.378 and β=-0.00, 95% CI -0.06, 0.05, p=0.982, respectively) (p-values for interaction=0.062 and 0.031, respectively). No race or age differences were identified. Adherence was not associated with implicit attitudes or implicit ambivalence. In conclusion, explicit attitudes and explicit attitudinal ambivalence may underlie low adherence to antihypertensive medications, particularly for older men.
ASSOCIATION OF MULTIMORBIDITY WITH INCIDENT SHINGLES AMONG OLDER AMERICANS
Authors: Kang Hyewon , Crimmins Eileen , Ailshire Jennifer A 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Older adults with multimorbidity are susceptible to shingles due to deterioration of immune function related to coexisting chronic disorders and immunological change. Although the association between individual chronic diseases and incident shingles has been documented, little is known about the effect of having multiple conditions on the risk for developing a new case of the disease. Multimorbidity is a normal condition with advanced aging. This paper examines risk of shingles onset associated with multimorbidity defined as having one or more chronic diseases including hypertension, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, lung disease, arthritis, and stroke) among older American. Data for this study come from the 1992 -2016 Health and Retirement Study. The study finds that risk for onset of shingles linearly increases with number of chronic disorders when age, gender, and race/ethnicity were adjusted (adjusted OR: 1.58, 95% CI; 1.37, 1.80 for those with 1 chronic condition vs adjusted OR: 3.43, 95% CI: 2.21, 5.53 for those with 6 conditions). The risks for multimorbidity were little changed after additional adjustments for socioeconomic status and health behaviors. The effect of multimorbidity on developing shingles is greater among young-old adults in their 50s than among the older-old adults aged 80 and higher. Our finding challenges the single-disease framework that is often used in previous studies examining risk factors for shingles. Our finding highlights the need for primary prevention and treatment of multimorbidity for reduction of shingles cases among older adults, especially young old adults in 50s.
LANGUAGE USE, LITERACY SKILLS, AND ONLINE HEALTH INFORMATION-SEEKING IN LATER LIFE AMONG HISPANICS IN THE U.S.
Authors: Millar Roberto J , Sahoo Shalini , Yamashita Takashi , Cummins Phyllis 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Online platforms, which are often in English, have become a common source of health information. Accordingly, language skills have been shown to be important for health information-seeking. In the United States, the use of online health information is generally low among Hispanics, particularly those with limited English proficiency. What is less clear, however, is how different measures of English proficiency may be linked to online health information seeking in later life. This study examines the associations between language spoken at home, literacy skills, and online health information seeking among middle age and older Hispanics in the U.S. Data of Hispanic adults aged 40 years and older (n = 315) come from the 2012/2014 Program for International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC). We used binary logistic regression models with complex sampling weights to examine online health information seeking as a function of primary language use at home (Spanish vs. English) and literacy skill assessment scores (low – high: 0 – 500 points). Results indicated that speaking Spanish at home (OR = 0.317, p &lt; 0.05) is a negative predictor, and greater literacy skills (OR = 1.011, p &lt; 0.05) is a positive predictor of online health information seeking. Findings from this study clarify possible health information disadvantages by limited English proficiency and lower literacy skills. We discuss how the impact of primary language use and literacy skills should be incorporated into future health communication and policy initiatives to address the barriers to health information among middle-aged and older Hispanic adults.