bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
EFFECTS OF SOCIAL SUPPORT NETWORK ON AMERICAN OLDER ADULTS’ MEMORY FUNCTIONS
Authors: Cheung Ethan Siu Leung , Ding Kedong 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background: Previous studies have found older adults’ cognitive functions are strongly associated with their social networks, including memory. Yet, few studies have explored the influences of specific social network members, such as siblings and children. Further, little studies examined the impact of the size of older adults’ social networks. Hence, this study aimed to investigate how older adults’ relationships with their spouses, siblings, and children, as well as the size of their social networks, affect American older adults’ memory functions. Methods: Using the 2018 data from NHATS, 5547 samples were included. We adopted a multiple logistic regression model to test the impact of social support network sizes, and how associations of social support networks varied between spouses, siblings, and children. All models were calibrated for age, gender, education, income, and race/ethnicity. Results: Analysis showed that higher socioeconomic status (more education and without Medicaid), being female, and younger age were associated with increased odds of having good self-rated memory functions. Older adults with larger social support networks (&gt;=3 individuals) were more likely to have better self-rated memory function (adjusted odds ratio, 1.182, p&lt;0.05), while holding other variables. Having a spouse also increased odds of higher self-rating memory function, in contrast to having children. Conclusion: This study highlighted the importance of having a larger social network size for older adult’s memory function and indicated the necessity of developing intervention programs to expand older adults' social network size, especially for those with lower socioeconomic status.
ALCOHOL USE SCREENING AND INTEGRATED BEHAVIORAL HEALTH IN GERIATRIC PRIMARY CARE IN THE DEEP SOUTH
Authors: Lanai Bailey , Dragan Deanna , Allen Rebecca S , Halli-Tierney Anne , Carroll Dana , Albright Amy 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
This longitudinal behavioral health surveillance and integrated care project aims to assess physical and mental health and substance use in a geriatric primary care setting. Approximately 230 patients (mean age = 76; 74% female; 16% African American) attending an interdisciplinary geriatrics clinic in Alabama have taken part in baseline behavioral health screenings since 2014. Behavioral health measures include cognitive status, self-reported mood, subjective and objective health literacy, and alcohol use. All measures are administered by clinical psychology graduate students. Patients had an average of 5.83 medical diagnoses. Only 26.2% of patients had scores indicating cognitive functioning within normal limits; 32.6% had scores indicative of mild neurocognitive disorder, and 41.2% had scores indicative of dementia. Over 80% of patients had adequate self-reported health literacy; however, measurements of objective health literacy indicated a significant number of individuals have difficulty following medical directions independently. Over 30% of patients reported clinically significant levels of depression or anxiety, and 16.5% of patients reported at least one indicator of hazardous alcohol use. Specifically, 50.7% of patients consume alcohol on at least a yearly basis with 38.2% endorsing at least one problematic drinking behavior and 11.6% scoring in the clinically significant range for alcohol misuse. Moreover, 22.7% report use of opioid pain medication. The results of this study demonstrate that routine hazardous alcohol use screening as one component of integrated behavioral health care within geriatric primary care increases detection of hazardous alcohol use among older adults.
GAIT SLOWING AMONG FRAIL OLDER ADULTS: IS HIGHER DOPAMINERGIC SIGNALING PROTECTIVE?
Authors: Rosano Caterina , Studenski Stephanie , Bohnen Nicolaas , Rosso Andrea 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Strategies to reduce gait slowing in frail older adults are urgently needed. Higher dopaminergic (DA) signaling is emerging as a protecting factor against age-related gait slowing, in the absence of Parkinson’s Disease (PD). DA signaling is potentially modifiable, thereby offering promising novel strategies to reduce gait slowing. In 3,752 PD-free participants of the Cardiovascular Health Study (72.3 years, 81% white, 39% male), we measured gait speed (usual pace, 15 feet), frailty (Fried definition), and genetic polymorphism of Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT, rs4680), an enzyme regulating tonic brain DA levels. Multivariable linear regression models of COMT predicting gait speed were adjusted for age, gender, BMI, ankle-arm index, vision, and arthritis. Strength, education, medications, pulmonary, cardio- and cerebro-vascular diseases, diabetes, mood, and cognition were considered as additional covariates. We examined the full cohort and the subgroup with frailty (n=222), without and with race-stratification to address racial differences in allele frequencies. Average (SE) gait speed was 0.88 (0.003) and 0.58 (0.01) m/sec in the full cohort and the frail subgroup, respectively. COMT was linearly associated with gait speed; gait was faster for met/met (higher DA signaling) and slower for val/val (lower DA signaling) participants. In adjusted models, differences between these two groups were: 0.02 (0.01) m/sec in the full cohort (p=0.4); 0.07(0.02) m/sec in the frail subgroup (p=0.02); 0.10 (0.02) m/sec in white with frailty (p=0.01). COMT genotyping may help identify frail adults who are less vulnerable to gait impairments. Studies of frailty should examine whether higher DA signaling offers resilience against age-related gait slowing.
SERVICE PROVIDERS' PERSPECTIVES OF UNDERREPORTING ABUSE OF OLDER ADULTS IN ALBERTA, CANADA
Authors: Liepert Carla R , Walsh Christine , Roger Kerstin , Goodridge Donna , Ranville Michelle 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Minimal research has investigated disclosure/non-disclosure of abuse of older adults. To address this gap, this exploratory, qualitative study gathered the perspectives on reporting of elder abuse from 10 service providers working with elder abuse survivors across Alberta. Face-to-face and online interviews were conducted, audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed. Four major barriers to abuse disclosure for older adults were identified. First, complex parent/adult-child relationships reduce the likelihood of disclosure among older adults who are experiencing abuse perpetrated by a family member; the corollary is that disclosure for non-familial perpetrators results in higher rates of disclosure. Second, older adults residing in rural and remote locations face greater barriers to disclosure compared to those residing in urban/suburban settings. Third, older adults are unlikely to report even if they recognize that they are in a situation of abuse, as a consequence of their internalized ageist beliefs that policing and social services agencies have more pressing needs to address than their well-being. Finally, local policing bodies and legal authorities may inadequately serve older adults facing abuse, particularly in cases of non-physical abuse, due to prioritized client and community needs. This study highlights the need for additional supports and service provision for vulnerable older adults in Alberta, specifically for those residing in rural and remote regions and those dependent on family members. It also points to the critical need for a greater understanding and awareness of violence against older adults among the general public and those tasked with ensuring the safety and well-being of older adults.
CHILD ABUSE AND ADULT MENTAL HEALTH: DOES GENDER MATTER?
Authors: Morton Patricia M , Kemp Blakelee , Ahmed Frass 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated that child abuse is associated with poor adult mental health, but few have investigated the extent to which the frequency of different types of abuse increase mental health conditions, especially at the nexus of gender. The present study examines whether parental abuse frequency and abuse perpetrator have distinct effects for men and women on three mental health outcomes—depressive symptoms, generalized anxiety, and global self-reported mental health. Data came from three waves of the National Survey of Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS), comprising a baseline sample of 3,032 adults aged 25-74. Estimating a series of mixed effects models revealed that maternal abuse and frequent abuse during childhood were associated with poorer adult mental health during our 20-year observation period, net of childhood and adult risk factors. Specifically, maternal emotional abuse raised the risk of depression, anxiety, and lower self-rated mental health, and was more strongly associated with depression and anxiety for women than men. Compared to adults who did not experience parental abuse during childhood, adults who experienced frequent emotional and physical abuse by either parent were more likely to experience depression and anxiety and report lower ratings of mental health in adulthood. Frequent child abuse was more strongly associated with anxiety for women than men. These results demonstrate that gender differences in adult mental health have early-life antecedents. Future research investigating the long-term mental health consequences of child abuse should consider the type and magnitude of abuse as well as the perpetrator.
DIETARY INTAKE AND SELF-REPORTED NUTRITION CONCERNS OF PEOPLE WITH PARKINSON’S AND THEIR INFORMAL CAREGIVERS
Authors: LoBuono Dara L , Shea Kyla , Dobiszewski Sarah Sarah , Tovar Alison , Leedahl Skye N , Xu Furong , Leslie Mahler , Lofgren Ingrid E 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Dietary recommendations for managing Parkinson’s disease (PD) can be confusing for people with PD (PwPD) and their informal caregivers (ICGs) who often have the responsibility to buy and prepare foods. PwPD (63-78 years of age) and their ICGs (39-75 years of age) completed two 24-hour dietary recalls and semi-structured, dyadic interviews which were conducted to gather information about dyads’ (n=9) nutrition concerns. Calorie, macro- and micro-nutrient intake were averaged over two days and compared to the National Academy of Sciences’ dietary reference intakes. Independent t-tests and the Mann-Whitney U tests compared PwPD and ICG. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed for preliminary themes. Mean calorie intake was 1766.6±658.5 kcal/d; the majority of calories were from carbohydrates. Calorie and nutrient intake between PwPD and ICG did not differ. All participants were below recommendations for fiber (17.2±7.9g/d) and potassium (2213.3±890.0mg/d) and exceeded recommendations for sodium (2741.2±1396.9mg/d) and added-sugars (59.5 ±38.3g/d). More than half of participants (55.6%) agreed an eating plan to manage PD symptoms is important and that a nutrition consultation would be helpful. Emerging themes from qualitative interviews include: nutrition concerns related to PD symptoms, managing other conditions and PD, perceptions regarding diet quality, impact of diet on PD symptoms, and complementary medicine. In conclusion, there were no differences in dietary intake between PwPD and ICG, and participants presented with lack of adherence to recommended dietary reference intakes. Sub-optimal dietary intake and self-reported nutrition concerns strongly suggest including both nutrition professionals and ICGs when providing care for PwPD.
HAND GRIP STRENGTH ASSESSMENT IN A HOME-DELIVERED MEAL PROGRAM: FEASIBILITY AND PRELIMINARY FINDINGS
Authors: Hutchins-Wiese Heather L , Walsh and Sarah E 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Declining hand grip strength is associated with adverse health outcomes and is a relatively quick and easy-to-administer functional assessment; however, grip strength is not routinely assessed in home-delivered meal (HDM) programs. The purpose of this sub-study was to test if grip strength assessment is feasible and useful in a HDM population. Among HDM clients (n=258) who completed health assessments between 2016 and 2018, a voluntary convenience sample of 34 HDM clients (23 women, 11 men) participated in the grip strength assessment sub-study. Sub-study participants were younger (72.2+/-7.35 vs. 77.0+/-10.50 years), with no other significant differences compared to the full sample of HDM participants. The average maximum grip strength was 21.99+/-6.97 kg for the dominant hand; 16 clients were categorized as having normal, 6 intermediate, and 12 weak grip strength. Normative categories for grip strength vary by gender because men typically have higher grip strength measures than women. In this population, more men were categorized as having weak grip strength compared to women (X (2, 34) =11.44, p=.03). In men, hand grip strength tended to be lower in those who reported a fall in the previous 6 months compared to those who did not report a fall (20.8+/-7.01 vs 29.3+/-6.32, p=.079). The gender differences and 8 kg difference in grip strength relative to reported falls are clinically meaningful in this vulnerable population. Future research is needed with a larger sample of HDM clients to confirm these preliminary findings.
EPIGENETIC PROFILES OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Authors: Thrush Kyra , Levine Morgan E 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Although age is highly correlated with incidence of Alzheimer’s Dementia (AD), the field continues to lack a clear understanding of how either normal and/or pathological aging processes drive neurodegeneration. As such, there remains a clear lack of valid and reliable clinical biomarkers to predict that disease’s future development and severity. Epigenetic age based on DNA methylation (DNAm) in brain have been shown to relate to AD neuropathology and cognitive decline. However, they were not initially designed as AD biomarkers. We hypothesized that supervised and unsupervised machine learning techniques (e.g. network analysis, clustering, and regressed-based techniques) could be used to build composite scoring variables from DNAm data that are predictive of AD progression. This work analyzes the methylation of 3 brain regions (cerebellum (CBM), prefrontal cortex (PFC), striatum (ST))—totaling 1,047 brain methylation samples. The samples contain neuropathologically confirmed AD cases and controls, and is enriched for APOE4+ carriers. Detailed subject-level information concerning cognitive measures, lifestyle choices, medications, and neuropathology at death were also considered. Based on epigenome-wide association study (EWAS), we identified a CpG in AIMP2 that is a robust predictor of AD-related phenotypes. Using network analysis, we have also identified co-methylation modules that relate to multifactorial AD phenotypes. Following validation, we intend to follow-up on the biological processes and molecular pathways associated with these epigenetic signatures. In moving forward, predictors of AD diagnosis and prognostication have major implications for early detection and treatment of this major age-related disease.
HOUSING COSTS BURDEN AND SELF-RATED HEALTH: PRELIMINARY FINDINGS FROM A U.S. SAMPLE
Authors: Cheon Ji Hyang , Cagle John , Lehning Amanda 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Self-rated health is a multidimensional construct that includes not only physical health but also emotional and social well-being. Previous research has demonstrated that multiple factors contribute to individual self-rated health, including income. Because income is a somewhat limited indicator of older adults' financial circumstances, alternative measures such as housing cost burden may enhance our understanding of contributors to self-rated health. Further, because homeowners and renters may have a different attachment to their home and neighborhood, homeownership may moderate the association between housing cost burden and self-rated health. This study examined these relationships using data from 3,212 older adults in round 7 (2017) of the National Health & Aging Trends Study. Findings from multiple linear regression models indicate that the housing cost burden is associated with lower self-rated health, and this association is stronger for renters compared to homeowners. The findings indicate the potential for reduced housing cost burden to have a positive effect on health. The poster will conclude with practice and policy implications, including the potential benefits of expanding rental assistance programs to older adults who may not meet current income requirements but are experiencing high housing cost burden, as well as research implications, including the need for longitudinal approaches.
REFLECTIONS FROM HOMELAB: DEVELOPING TASKS TO MEASURE UPPER-BODY FUNCTION IN A SIMULATED HOME
Authors: Carmichael Alicia G , Wisniewski Maren , Nielsen Karen , Leonard Natalie M , Wank Marianthie , Raichur Vineet , Gonzalez Richard 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Homelike research spaces provide a unique context for studying older adulthood by blurring the boundaries between the participant’s own home and traditional laboratories. Such intermediary spaces hold promise for developing measures of functional performance with increased ecological validity. While “home labs” are becoming more accessible at institutions around the world, the research design process in these spaces contains hidden challenges that can be a barrier to entry for the uninitiated. We identify and reflect on these challenges through the lens of a recent protocol built to assess upper-body performance among older adults during activities of daily living. The U-M HomeLab served as a proving ground for four example tasks: opening a water bottle, sorting pills, tying an apron, and hanging laundry. The evolution of each task is traced through ideation, testing, and refinement, culminating in a pilot among nine community-dwelling volunteers aged 61 to 72 with upper-body pain. Based on this experience, we recommend that designers of naturalistic tasks in homelike environments give special consideration to (1) feasibility, (2) scorability, and (3) safety while carefully balancing standardization against verisimilitude. In turn, each of these elements must be grounded not only in the context of the facility itself but also in the population using that facility. Among older adults with upper body pain, considerations included remaining cognizant of fall risk, anticipating and capturing compensatory behaviors, tailoring task difficulty for a wide range of physical ability, and accounting for the impact of historically gendered divisions of labor on task performance.
USE IT TOO MUCH AND LOSE EVERYTHING? THE EFFECTS OF HOURS OF WORK ON HEALTH
Authors: McKenzie Colin , Sakata Kei , Kajitani Shinya 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
We examine the causal impact of working hours on various health outcomes of Australian men aged 40 and over. To capture the potential non-linear dependence of health status on working hours, the models for health outcomes include working hours and its square. We deal with the potential endogeneity of working hours by using the instrumental variable estimation technique using instruments based on the age for pension eligibility. A non-linear causal effect of working hours on health is confirmed. For males working relatively moderate hours (up to 20–24 hours for a week), an increase in working hours has a positive impact on health, but thereafter an increase in working hours has a negative impact on health. The results also indicate that there is a non-linear dependence of working hours on the pension eligibility age, and also a non-linear dependence of health outcomes on the pension elgibility when this last relationship is treated as a "reduced form" relationship.
EXPOSURE TO FINE PARTICULATE MATTER, GLOBAL COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE, AND EMOTIONAL DISTRESS IN OLDER WOMEN
Authors: Petkus Andrew J , Wang Xinhui , Younan Diana , Espeland Mark M , Manson JoAnn E , Whitsel Eric , Resnick Susan , Chen Jiu-Chiuan 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Among older adults, exposure to ambient PM2.5 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter &lt;2.5 μm) has been associated with more rapid decline in cognitive performance and greater emotional distress. However, the inter-relationship between PM2.5 exposure, emotional distress, and global cognitive decline is unexamined. We examined whether long-term PM2.5 exposure affects global cognitive ability and emotional distress in 5,982 older women (baseline age 70.6 ± 3.8 years) from the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study. PM2.5 exposure for the three-years prior to baseline was estimated at each participant’s residence via a national kriging model. Using structural equation models (SEM), a z-score standardized latent factor consisting of items from the 6-item CESD and the SF-36 Emotional Well-Being scale was constructed to estimate emotional distress at baseline and one-year follow-up. Individual-specific trajectories of global cognitive performance (Modified-Mini Mental State Examination; 3MS) were also estimated. All effects reported were adjusted for multiple demographic, lifestyle, and clinical variables. Higher PM2.5 exposure was associated with lower baseline 3MS performance (β= -.159 per IQR=3.38 μg/m3; 95% CI = -.276 to -.042), which was associated with increased emotional distress over the subsequent year (β= -.011; 95% CI= -.017 to -.004). A statistically significant indirect association of PM2.5 on changes in emotional distress via worse baseline 3MS performance (β=.002; 95% CI = .001 to .004) was present. In contrast, no statistically significant association between PM2.5 on baseline emotional distress occurring prior to declines in 3MS performance was present. PM2.5 neurotoxicity may contribute to global cognitive decline, which precedes increased emotional distress.
DAILY INTERACTIONS WITH THE VERY OLD PARENTS AND OLD CHILDREN: CONCORDANCE IN REPORTS AND RELATIONSHIP TYPE
Authors: Kim Joohyun , Min Joohong 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Objectives: Studies have been increased on daily lives of older adults; however, little is known about daily interactions between parents and children, especially both are in their later lives. Utilizing parent-child dyadic data, this study aims to investigate the joint daily interactions of the very old parents and their old children with focus on the relationship type and differences in parent’s and child’s report. Methods: A sample of 105 parents (aged ≥ 80) and 105 children (aged ≥ 65) were interviewed to assess frequency on daily interactions (e.g., contact by phone or email, talking, eating and going out together). Structural Equation Modeling was used to examine differences in amounts of daily interactions by relationship type (e.g., mother-daughter, mother-son and mother-in-law – daughter-in-law). Results: Both parents and children reported high level of daily interactions; however, frequency of watching TV and going out together were relatively lower, compared to other forms of daily interactions. Parents and children showed high concordance in reports; 84% of dyads had the same reports in interactions (absolute mean discrepancy score &lt; 0.1). Mother-daughter relationship reported significantly higher frequency on daily interactions, comparted to mother-son relationship. No significant differences were found between the mother-daughter dyads and the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law dyads. Discussion: Findings suggest that very old parents and old children tend to have high levels of daily interactions, with high concordance in reports. It also highlights its importance of considering relationship type in the dynamic of daily lives and experiences between very old parents and old children.