bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Aging and Gaming: The Science and Promise of Technology-Based Leisure Activities and Interventions
Authors: Kerssens Chantal 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Much research has focused on technology to support older adults in basic and instrumental activities of daily living. Much less is known about technology supports of hobbies and leisure later in life. Physical, cognitive and social activities potentially delay the onset and progression of disease, including dementia. Older adults are interested in digital games, applications (apps) and social technologies, and will use technology provided their needs, preferences and goals are met. Moreover, video games can be designed to promote satisfying social experiences between players of differing capabilities. More work, however, is needed to understand older adults’ interactions and engagement with game-based interventions. This symposium presents cutting-edge research findings and design recommendations for technology-based leisure activities and interventions in older adults. Yow et al. present data from a large, touch-screen dual language intervention program with cognitive training tools aimed at slowing down the rate of cognitive decline in older adults with dementia. Boot et al. present longitudinal data from the Center for Research and Education on Aging and Technology Enhancement (CREATE) with a focus on leisure and videogames; Freed et al. present older adults’ attitudes and experiences with an exercise videogame (exergame). Lin et al. discuss the early effects of an exergame involving real-world physical activity on activity, social contact and stress levels in dementia caregivers. Kerssens et al. discuss the creation and testing of an adapted, accessible version of beloved board games for people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and a care partner without MCI. Technology and Aging Interest Group Sponsored Symposium.
The Role of Midlife Occupational Factors for Trajectories of Cognitive Change
Authors: Hueluer Gizem , Siebert Jelena , Wahl Hans-Werner 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Cognitively enriching environments are usually related to higher levels of cognitive performance, while associations with longitudinal change are less clear. In the present study, we used 20-year longitudinal data from the German Interdisciplinary Longitudinal Study of Adult Development and Aging (ILSE) to examine the role of occupational factors for longitudinal trajectories of cognitive function in midlife. To do so, we used data from 374 participants in the ILSE midlife cohort (born in 1950-52; mean age at baseline = 44 years; 44 % women). Our findings showed that cognitively enriching work environments were associated with higher levels of cognitive function at baseline; however, these associations were not independent of control variables including education. There was no evidence that enriching work environments were related to the maintenance of cognitive abilities. In sum, our findings are in line with notions of “preserved differentiation”. We discuss potential mechanisms underlying these findings.
Bidirectional Longitudinal Associations Between Cognitive Abilities and Social Relationships in Old Age
Authors: Luo Minxia , Edelsbrunner Peter , Siebert Jelena , Martin Mike , Aschwanden Damaris 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Individuals’ social connections can both shape and be shaped by cognitive abilities in aging process. This study examined bidirectional longitudinal associations between cognitive abilities and social relationships using 12-year longitudinal data (3 waves) from 499 German older adults who were born between year 1930 and 1932. Cognitive abilities were assessed as a latent construct consisting of five cognitive tests, i.e., picture completion, block design, information, similarities, and word finding. Social relationships were assessed by the self-reported number of free time partners and scales of perceived social relationships. Using a random-intercept cross-lagged panel model, we focused on within-person causal relations. Results showed that higher cognitive abilities predicted higher number of free time partners over four years and that more positive perceived social relationships predicted higher cognitive abilities at four-year follow-up. In sum, the bidirectional longitudinal associations indicate social relationships and cognitive abilities mutually maintain each other in old age.
Multiple Dimensions of Perceived Discrimination, Race-Ethnicity, and Mortality Risk Among Older Adults
Authors: Cobb Ryon 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The present study utilized data from the Health and Retirement Study (N=12,988) to investigate the joint consequences of multiple dimensions of perceived discrimination on mortality risk. Perceived discrimination is based on responses from the 2006/2008 HRS waves and included everyday discrimination, the number of attributed reasons for everyday discrimination, and major lifetime discrimination. Vital status was obtained from the National Death Index and reports from key household informants (spanning 2006–2016). Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the risk of mortality. During the observation period, 3,494 deaths occurred. Only the number of attributed reasons for discrimination predicted mortality risk when all discrimination measures were estimated in the same model (Hazard Ratio [HR]=1.09; 95%, Confidence Interval [CI]=1.05 - 1.14), holding all else constant. Overall, the number of attributed reasons for everyday discrimination is a particularly salient risk factor for mortality in later life.
Diverse Approaches to Assessing What Matters to Older Adults
Authors: Emery-Tiburcio Erin , Golden Robyn 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Asking older adults What Matters to them and assuring that care plans are aligned with these preferences is the cornerstone of an Age-Friendly Health System (AFHS). Health systems have struggled to identify clear ways to ask this question and meaningfully utilize the responses. Both simple and complex options for addressing this challenge have been developed at Rush University Medical Center. At Rush, nurses began asking every inpatient What Matters and placing the response on the white board in the patient’s room. Results of this practice include increased awareness of staff and significant increases in patient satisfaction. Qualitative analysis of responses yields increased awareness of patterns that the hospital can more systematically address. The Rush Center for Excellence in Aging hosts Schaalman Senior Voices, in which older adults from diverse backgrounds are given the unique opportunity to offer their perspectives on life, health and aging related to “What Matters” to them. The films have been used effectively to stimulate conversations among older adults and families in the community and in health professions courses, and with health systems executives. The Rush College of Medicine has integrated AFHS training into communication skills for medical students. Faculty introduce the 4Ms and demonstrate methods for having What Matters (WM) conversations. Students then practice WM conversations with simulated patients; some have had the opportunity to practice with real patients in preceptorships. Implications for the health system and community will be discussed as Rush builds an Age-Friendly Health Community.
Increasing Physical Activity and Reducing Dementia Risk in Older African American Residents of Public Housing
Authors: Fausto Bernadette , Duberstein Paul , Lu Shou-En , Gluck Mark 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Older African Americans—especially those with lower income and those living in urban public housing—have a greater risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) compared to the general population. Inadequate levels of physical activity and aerobic exercise are thought to be among the probable causes for increased AD risk. Based on our preliminary data, we hypothesize that a cluster-randomized multi-level intervention in low-income public housing, focused on heart and brain health, can produce participant-level increases in physical activity among participants enrolled in an aerobic exercise class after six months (primary outcome) that are maintained at one year, as well as housing-level changes in attitudes and beliefs about physical activity and exercise participation among housing residents, both exposed and not exposed to the participant-level intervention as well as participant-level improvements in cognition and brain health evincive of decreased risk for AD.
Using Technology to Support Self-Managing Hypertension in African Americans
Authors: Still Carolyn , Dang Phuong , Sattar Abdus 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a community and technology-based intervention to support self-managing hypertension in African American (AA). Sixty AA with hypertension were randomly assigned to Coachman (a technology-based intervention) or Enhanced Usual Care. COACHMAN is comprised of blood pressure (BP) monitoring with study issued monitor, six-weeks of web-based education, training to use a medication management application, and nurse counseling. Data were collected on contextual factors (demographics, perceived social support), process factors (hypertension knowledge, self-efficacy, technology use/adoption), and proximal health behaviors (medication adherence, diet, exercise) at baseline, and 8 and 12 weeks. While mean difference in BP reduction was not statistically significant, we found that half of the subjects randomized to the intervention group had an average systolic BP reduction of 13.5 mmHg that we would regard as clinically significant. Interventions that incorporate mHealth can support self-managing hypertension in AA, and improve BP.
Factors Associated With Aging Biomarkers: Findings From the National Health and Aging Trends Study
Authors: Samuel Laura , Cudjoe Thomas K M , Crimmins Eileen 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Few studies have examined associations between socioeconomic, psychosocial and environmental characteristics with biological markers of aging among nationally representative older adult samples. This symposium will present results from four studies that examine the associations between 1) socioeconomic factors (i.e. financial strain and income to poverty ratio), 2) environmental characteristics (i.e. home disorder, street block disorder and community social cohesion) 3) social isolation (i.e. household size and social network),and 4) subjective well-being (i.e. positive affect, self-realization and personal mastery) as they relate to biomarkers of aging (hemoglobin A1c, IL-6, high-sensitivity CRP, and cytomegalovirus). Biomarker samples were obtained in 2017 via dried blood spots from 4,648 (88%) of the 5,265 self-responding participants of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS). NHATS is an ongoing study that conducts annual in-home interviews, which recruited a nationally representative cohort of Medicare beneficiaries aged 65+ residing in the contiguous United States in 2011 and replenished the sample in 2015. All analyses for the four studies presented in this symposium adjusted for demographic and socioeconomic characteristics and other potential confounders. Sampling weights were applied to account for study design and non-response so that inferences can be generalized to US adults aged ≥67 in 2017. Sessions of this symposium will highlight the socioeconomic, psychosocial and environmental characteristics that are associated with aging biomarkers. These results have clinical, policy and public health implications. These results can inform the development of interventions and policies aimed at improving biologic aging across the lifespan and reducing disparities in biologic aging.
Temporal Relationship Between Activity Engagement and Cognition
Authors: Jung Seojung , Siedlecki Karen 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Previous studies have shown that activity engagement is related to cognitive function. However, few studies have examined the temporal order between activity engagement and various domains of cognition. Using data from the Virginia Cognitive Aging Project (baseline N =5430, Mage =51.28, SD =18.12), we examined the temporal relationships between engagement in physical and cognitive activity and different cognitive domains (reasoning, spatial visualization, episodic memory, processing speed, vocabulary) after controlling for age, education, self-rated health and depression. Cross-lagged panel analyses indicate that very few of the temporal relationships between activity level and cognition were significant except higher levels of cognitive activity significantly predicted better future processing speed, but not the reverse. Findings suggest the importance of engaging in cognitively stimulating activities, which help adults preserve processing speed over time. This study also highlights the importance of longitudinal design on various domains of cognition to help develop domain-specific interventions.
Ageism Across Cultures and Interest in Geropsychology Among International Students
Authors: Strong Jessica , Graham Kirsten 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Ageist attitudes are concerning when considering who will enter the geriatric workforce. The impact of ageism on intent to work with older adults (OAs) between North American and non-North American individuals is unclear. We collected data from N=186 students (n=153 N. American, n=33 non-N. American), examining ageist attitudes and intent to work with OAs. We found significant differences between groups in ageist attitudes; North American students had more positive views of aging (M=88.64, SE=0.72) than non-North American students (M=85.33, SE = 1.42; t (167) = 2.04, p = 0.04, d=0.39), but there were no differences between groups for intent to work with OAs (t (174) = 0.09, p = 0.93). Ageist attitudes predicted intent to work with OAs for North American students only (F (2, 112) = 8.82, p &lt; 0.001, R2 = 0.14). We discuss implications of ageism and intent to work with OAs from a cross-cultural lens.
Capacity Assessment Training and Competency Evaluation Tool
Authors: Jacobs Lindsey , Bamonti Patricia , Strong Jessica , Page Kyle , Edelstein Barry , Allen Rebecca , Bush Shane 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Given the complex interplay of ethical, clinical, and legal factors, evaluating capacities in older adults is an important competency for geropsychologists. However, the amount of quality of training in this area varies, and geropsychology trainees report less confidence in their capacity evaluation skills. To date, only the Pikes Peak Self-Assessment Tool includes items measuring competency and growth in decisional capacity evaluations. However, it is a broad self-report measure assessing general geropsychology competencies. We developed a performance-based measure of decision-making capacity evaluations, the “Capacity Assessment Training and Competency Evaluation Tool (CATCET).” Using the ABA/APA Assessment of Older Adults with Diminished Capacity as a guide, expert panels created two clinical cases across 5 capacity domains. This presentation will discuss the creation of the CATCET, its application as a training and evaluation tool, and initial performance data among psychology graduate students, intern, and fellows across settings.
Life-Course Transitions to Precarious Housing in Older Age
Authors: Barrie Helen , Faulkner Debbie , Lester Laurence 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Home is central to health and wellbeing; yet the changing nature of work, household dynamics and especially housing markets, with scant policy attention and action around this, means low-middle income households are struggling in many countries. In Australia, while older people are considered to be at less risk because of higher levels of home ownership, there is a growing body of evidence about the living situations of older people who have not attained or retained home ownership over the life course and have limited wealth and savings moving into later life. This paper presents the findings of multivariate regression modelling using HILDA, a national longitudinal panel survey, to identify the profile(s) of older people at risk of homelessness in Australia. The data makes it clear a range of structural and individual factors across the life course are increasingly impacting on the ability to live a good life in older age.
Positive Age Beliefs Lead to Lower Dementia Risk Even Among Older Persons With High-Risk Gene
Authors: Levy Becca , Slade Martin , Pietrzak Robert , Ferrucci Luigi 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
One of the strongest risk factors for dementia is the ε4 variant of the APOE gene. Yet, many who carry it never develop dementia. The current study examined whether positive age beliefs that are acquired from the culture may reduce the risk of developing dementia among older individuals, including those who are APOE ε4 carriers. The cohort consisted of 4,765 Health and Retirement Study participants who were aged 60 or older and dementia-free at baseline. As predicted, in the total sample those with positive age beliefs at baseline were significantly less likely to develop dementia, after adjusting for relevant covariates. Among those with APOE ε4, those with positive age beliefs were 49.8% less likely to develop dementia than those with negative age beliefs. The results of this study suggest that positive age beliefs, which are modifiable and have been found to reduce stress, can act as a protective factor, even for older individuals at high risk of dementia.
Higher Awareness of Positive and Negative Age-Related Changes Relate to Lower Objective Cognitive Scores
Authors: Sabatini Serena , Ukoumunne Obioha , Ballard Clive , Anstey Kaarin , Diehl Manfred , Brothers Allyson , Wahl Hans-Werner , Clare Linda 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Existing evidence suggests that individuals’ subjective experience of cognitive decline may be a risk state for dementia. However, whether self-awareness of positive changes confer cognitive protection is unknown. We examined the extent to which awareness of positive (AARC gains) and negative (AARC losses) age-related changes explains variability in objective cognitive performance in a sample of 6,231 UK residents (Mean age= 66.1 years, 75.9% women) without cognitive impairment. We tested a structural equation model with AARC gains and losses as predictors of cognitive performance and depressive symptoms as a mediator of the association of AARC losses with cognitive performance. The model fit the data well. The correlation between AARC gains and losses was negligible, yet higher levels of both AARC gains and losses predicted poorer cognitive scores. Hence, higher AARC gains did not confer cognitive protection. This unexpected pattern of results underscores the complexity of mapping individuals’ awareness onto objective outcomes.
The Role of Daily Social Interactions in Detecting Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Zhaoyang Ruixue , Scott Stacey , Cerino Eric , Sliwinski Martin 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Social relationships play an important role in cognitive health and aging. However, it is unclear how older adult’s cognitive function affects their everyday social interactions, especially for those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This study examined whether older adults with intact cognition vs. MCI differed in their daily social interactions. Community-dwelling older adults from the Einstein Aging Study (N=244, 70-91 yrs) reported their social interactions five times daily for 14 consecutive days using smartphones. Compared to those with normal cognitive function, older adults with MCI reported less frequent positive social interactions (p=0.012) and in-person social activities (p=0.006) on a daily basis. These two groups, however, did not show significant differences in their social relationships assessed by a conventional global questionnaire. The results support that, relative to global social relationships, daily social interactions are more sensitive, ecologically valid social markers that can facilitate the early detection of MCI.
Digital Home Assistant Health Applications for Older Adults With Long-Term Mobility Disabilities
Authors: Kadylak Travis , Khaleghi Roshanak , Blocker Kenneth , Gowrishankar Saahithya , Ramadhani Widya , Koon Lyndsie , Sreenivas Ramavarapu , Rogers Wendy 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The aim of the current study was to evaluate the feasibility, usability, safety, and efficacy of digital home assistant health applications (e.g., meditation applications, medication reminders, hydration management) for older adults with mobility disabilities. We used a multi-pronged approach. First, we compiled, categorized, and assessed a list of commercially available health applications compatible with Amazon Alexa devices. We reviewed data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study and the ACCESS study to identify challenges that older adults with mobility disabilities face within the home. We also reviewed the literature on the acceptance and use of digital home assistant health applications by older adults. Lastly, we conducted user testing in a laboratory and in a home-simulation environment to assess usability of different health applications. Our results provide guidance for the implementation of digital home assistant health applications to support older adults with long-term mobility disabilities.
Adults With Neurocognitive Disorders Who Reside Alone: Exploration of Nontraditional and Absent Support Systems
Authors: Girling Laura , de Medeiros Kate 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Research steadily demonstrates that family functions as the central component in the provision of care for persons with neurocognitive disorders. While it is clear family plays a critical role in the lives of adults with neurocognitive disorders, overlooked is the subpopulation who reside alone, but have no identifiable family to provide care. To address this gap, data were drawn from an interview-based NIA-funded study that focused on community-dwelling live-alone persons with dementia. Subanalyses were conducted on the interviews and field notes of live-alone adults with neurocognitive disorders who had no identifiable family (N=19) and their collaterals (e.g., neighbor, N=20). Using data-derived coding in ATLAS.ti., several themes emerged including transient informal care, consequential peripheral ties, and strained/traumatic nuclear relations. Themes will be discussed in detail. The present study expands the limited information on community-dwelling persons with dementia, providing a lens for understanding the complex intersection of aging and non-traditional/absent support networks.
Precarious Work, Marital Quality, and Divorce: A Gendered Dyadic Analysis of Aging Couples
Authors: Donnelly Rachel 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Precarious work – work that is unstable and insecure – is often stressful and may contribute to marital strain and dissolution among midlife adults. However, prior research has not considered how precarious work spills over to spouses. Using longitudinal dyadic data of midlife couples from the Health and Retirement Study, I examine whether having a spouse in precarious work is associated with marital strain and dissolution, with attention to differences by gender. I find that indicators of precarious work (job insecurity, schedule variability) are associated with a heightened risk of marital strain and divorce in midlife. These patterns depend on the gender of the spouse experiencing precarious work. Understanding the implications of precarious work for marriage is important because poor marital quality and divorce hasten health declines at older ages. Thus, this study suggests that precarious work may be a risk factor for divorce and poor health among aging adults.