bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
WORKPLACE SUPPORTS FOR WORKING LONGER: A CASE FOR THE BLACK LOW-WAGE WORKER
Authors: Jason Kendra 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Government-sponsored retirement programs and employer benefits are directly tied to individual employment history and wages. Consequently, Black workers disproportionally face challenges in labor market compensation and retirement benefits. Due to a history of racial discrimination and economic oppression, Black workers earn less income over the life course and are less likely to have insurance support in comparison to their white counterparts in older age. This leads Black adults to remain in the workforce longer for financial support and presents unique physical and psychosocial challenges balancing work obligations and family responsibilities. Further, Black adults also suffer from more chronic illnesses, poor health outcomes, and death at higher rates compared to nearly all other racial groups. Drawing on data derived from a workplace case-study with interviews from 15 low-wage Black workers aged 50+ years, with multiple chronic conditions in the Southern United States. My aims are to (1) understand what workplace supports enable vulnerable workers to remain in the workforce, and (2) identity other buffers (i.e., resilience) to working with chronic conditions that enable prolonged work engagement. Findings suggest that workplaces can better support low-wage workers who cannot afford to retire by offering better pay and health benefits. Supervisor and coworker supports, flexible work arrangements and scheduling, and less stressful work environments also enable sustained work engagement. Research, policy and practice implications of this research include identifying workplace attributes and determining strategies to strengthen them, which is paramount to addressing disparities in work and health outcomes in the vulnerable communities.
INTERNET USE AND SOCIAL ISOLATION: THE SIGNIFICANCE OF LIFE TRANSITIONS
Authors: Shim Hyunju , Ailshire Jennifer A , Crimmins Eileen M 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Social isolation has emerged as a significant public health risk for older people, and can be triggered by a number of life transitions in old age, such as retirement, bereavement, and divorce. Using the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), the current study aims to examine how internet use is associated with significant life transitions in marital and employment status in a longitudinal analysis. Results showed that using the internet was associated with lower social isolation and depression for people who became separated or divorced, but no significant interaction was observed for people who became widowed. On the other hand, becoming unemployed and using the internet was associated with more depressive symptoms. The results indicate that the link between psychological well-being and use of internet differs depending on the context of life transitions and may not have universal benefits for reducing social isolation.
EXPLORING THE PERCEPTION OF PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA ABOUT A SOCIAL ROBOT PARO IN A HOSPITAL SETTING
Authors: Hung Lillian , Gregorio mario , Mann Jim , Horne Neil , Wallsworth Christine , Berndt Annette , Chaudhury Habib 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
PARO, a robotic pet, was designed to provide emotional and social support for older people with dementia. This project aims to explore the perception of persons with dementia about the role of PARO in a hospital setting. Video-ethnographic methods were applied. Patient and family partners were involved in the fieldwork of data collection and analysis. We conducted conversational interviews with ten patients with dementia staying in a geriatric unit and video observations. Thematic analysis yielded three substantive themes: (a) “it’s like a buddy”, the robot helps persons with dementia to uphold a sense of self in the world, (b) “it’s a conversation piece”, the baby seal facilitates social connection, and (c) “it’s all about love”, PARO transforms and humanizes the clinical setting. Our findings contribute to providing a better understanding of the direct perspectives of patients with dementia on the use of the social robot.
TIPS FOR TIMELY (AND POSITIVE) REVIEWS: THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF AGING & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Patrick Julie Hicks 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
For more than 40 years, under the leadership of four editors and two publishers, The International Journal of Aging and Human Development (IJAHD) has featured multidisciplinary scholarship related to aging processes and older adults. With the publication of eight issues a year, with over 800 pages of scientific content, the IJAHD places emphasis upon psychological and social studies of aging and the aged. However, the Journal also publishes research that integrates observations from other disciplines that illuminate the "human" side of gerontology. A more recent focus includes midlife development, as well. About half (47%) of the publications in the IJAHD are from international colleagues. This presentation will discuss tips for both international and US-based scholars for ensuring timely reviews and positive decisions for manuscript submissions, including such areas as key words, suggesting unbiased reviewers, formatting, writing mechanics, clearly-articulated methods, and a sound theoretical basis.
ETHNICITY, RACE, HEALTH, AND SOCIAL CARE: STUDYING INEQUALITIES IN AN INJUSTICE-OBLIVIOUS WAY
Authors: Torres Sandra 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Scholarship on ethnicity and old age is at a crossroad now that increased diversity is a given in older populations. The same holds true for the study of inequalities in old age as it relates to ethnicity and race. This presentation relies on a scoping review of scholarship published between 1998 - 2017 (n=336) that brings attention to the ways in which ethnicity/ race – as grounds for stratification and disadvantage - are made sense of in this scholarship. The presentation will describe the topics that the review divulged when it comes to the study of health and social care (i.e. access and usage; attitudes, preferences and experiences; assessment of programs suitability and self-care practices). In doing so, this presentation will argue that if we are to address the inequalities that older ethnic minorities face we need not only a diversity-astute research agenda but also an injustice-aware one.
A NARRATIVE STUDY TO CONNECT THE GERONTOLOGY: THE ELDERLY CHARACTERS IN NURSING HOMES FIRE NEWS IN TAIWAN
Authors: HSU Sheng-Chin 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
There are more than 30 civilian deaths in 10 fire accidents in nursing homes since 2008 in Taiwan. Due to the collective space of nursing homes, the damages of fires in a facility are much worse than in a personal house. Since the type of family changed after The Chinese Civil War, the elderly members, retired from the labor market, like to choose to live in nursing homes, or hospitals. According to the Ministry of Interior, R.O.C., Taiwan turned into an Aged society in 2018. In those fire news, the duties of families are seldom discussed, but the duties of care center are emphasized. The narrative of a fire accident in nursing homes is composed of many elements. These elements have been connected with old people and various arrangements. It is important to understand how the duties shifting from families to nursing homes, and what characters and relationship disappear in a fire accident. This study adopts the narrative theory to analyze the characters in fire report about Nursing Homes. Three findings are discovered: first, the duties of taking care of elders in a nursing home fire are connecting to Care Facilities but not families nor government. Second, the role of taking care of older people is played by Care-Staff more than family members in a fire narrative. Finally, the duty of fire and the duty of taking care of elders are interwoven into a complicated narrative: the role of Long-Term Care Center emerges but family and government disappear.
POETRY INTERVENTION IMPACTS PERSPECTIVES ON DEMENTIA AND CAPABILITIES AMONG YOUNG VOLUNTEERS
Authors: Kaplan Daniel B , Glazner Gary 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Poetry for Life (PFL), is a teaching and learning initiative that brings students together with older adults in meaningful community service workshops. PFL capitalizes on the skills and passions of young poets by offering opportunities to serve elders by leading poetry workshops at settings where older adults receive care. This study examines measurable impacts of training, exposure, and experience in poetry-based intergenerational workshops on students’ knowledge, attitudes, and values. Participating groups of students receive instruction in performing and creating poetry in group settings. They visit local elder care settings to facilitate PFL workshops and then write reflections on their experiences. Students agree to complete pre- and post-program surveys to document the impacts of PFL experiences on students' social/emotional health and on their knowledge, attitudes, and values related to older adults, dementia and dementia care, poetry and arts-based interventions, and careers in healthcare, aging fields, and the arts. To date, 33 young people from one middle school, one high school, and one graduate college program have volunteered to participate in the program and completed the study. Findings reveal significant impacts on students’ perceived capabilities working and communicating with people with dementia as well as leading poetry activities. Additionally, significant positive impacts were demonstrated on 12 of 20 items on the Dementia Attitudes Scale across participating students. The PFL experience did not, however, lead to significant impacts on student self-esteem or work interests. These findings suggest benefits and limitations of this service-learning experience. Implications for future programming will be discussed.
TECHNOLOGICALLY MEDIATED INTERVENTIONS IN HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE: CONSIDERATIONS FOR RURAL ELDERS
Authors: Washington Karla T 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Rural communities are home to a disproportionate number of older adults, many of whom are living with a serious illness or providing care to a seriously ill family member or friend. For these individuals, hospice and palliative care services can provide much-needed biopsychosocial and spiritual support, leading to an enhanced quality of life. Technologically-mediated interventions hold promise as a strategy to bridge geographic distances between healthcare providers and rural elders; however, the effect of such interventions may be greater when they are designed in a manner congruent with rural culture and compatible with the technological infrastructure common in rural areas. Informed by lessons learned during a pilot study of a telehealth intervention in one Midwestern state (R21CA191165), this presentation includes a discussion of strategies to more effectively recruit, engage, and retain rural older adults into studies testing technologically-mediated interventions for hospice and palliative care patients and their families.
DEVELOPING SOCIAL CONVOY PALLIATIVE CARE MOBILE HEALTH FOR OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Portz Jennifer D 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Social Convoy Theory is well established in the gerontology literature and provides a framework for understanding the relationships of individuals in a group of people with whom they give and receive social support over the life-cycle. Previous research substantiates a link between the importance of social convoys and health outcomes among older adults with advanced illness. However, the concept of social convoy has not been applied to mobile health (mHealth) for palliative care. Often mHealth systems are designed for individual users, lacking innovative solutions for multiple, age-diverse, simultaneous users to maximize benefit. Therefore, the Social Convoy Palliative Care (Convoy-Pal) mobile application (K76AG059934) was developed using a rigorous iterative process with older patients, their social convoy, and health providers, to foster effective integration of the social convoy in palliative care-specific mHealth. Based on these findings, this presentation discusses strategies to design mHealth for a convoy of users in geriatric palliative care.
LINKING LIVES: PROMOTING HEALTH EQUITY TO DISRUPT THE CYCLE OF SOCIAL ISOLATION
Authors: Goldsen Karen Fredriksen 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Resulting from social, economic, and environmental disadvantage in vulnerable communities, health inequities have systematically created greater obstacles to aging. Despite the adversity of their lives, or perhaps because of it, older adults from vulnerable populations embody an Iridescent Life Course, displaying remarkable resilience and resistance, yet are at greater risk of health disparities and social isolation in later life. In the U.S. social isolation has reached epidemic proportions, creating a largely invisible public health crisis with few resources for an aging population. In her presentation, Professor Karen Fredriksen Goldsen will share her landmark longitudinal research on LGBT older adults, who have historically confronted social exclusion, with divergent pathways leading to social isolation. She will discuss the development and testing of community evidence-based interventions and how these findings can provide effective alternatives for anyone living in isolation as well as promote health equity, creating a future for full aging potential.
BARRIERS, FACILITATORS, BENEFITS, AND ENJOYMENT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN MIDDLE-AGED HISPANIC MEN
Authors: Delgado Ferdinand , DerAnanian Cheryl , Vega-Lopez Sonia , Vega-Soto Shandel , Valdez Hector , Hooker Steven 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Little is known about middle-aged Hispanic men’s perceptions of physical activity (PA). Purpose: To examine perceived barriers, facilitators, and benefits of PA and what types of PA are enjoyable. Methods: Seven focus groups (FGs) were conducted with middle-aged Hispanic men (mean age 51.6±6.1 years; n=32) who primarily self-identified as Mexican (78.1%). All FGs were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated into English. A grounded theory approach was used to identify themes. Results: Competing responsibilities (N=7 FGs), laziness/apathy (N=6 FGs), and a lack of habit/routine (N=5 FGs) were identified as the primary barriers to PA. Jobs were perceived as a PA barrier because of physical labor involved, long hours, having multiple jobs, and/or an inconsistent schedule. Laziness/apathy involved the notion that people have time to exercise, but choose not to. Not having a routine resulted in procrastination and not achieving exercise goals. Social support was the primary facilitator to PA, which included having a friend (N=5 FGs), family member (N=5 FGs), or spouse/partner (N=6 FGs) with whom they could participate in PA. Sports were mentioned in all FGs as enjoyable, including soccer (N=5 FGs), basketball (N=5 FGs), tennis/racquetball/handball (N=3 FGs), and baseball (N=2 FGs). Walking/running (N=6 FGs) and hiking (N=5 FGs) were also considered enjoyable. The primary perceived benefits of PA included increased energy after exercising (N=6 FGs) and improved overall health (N=6 FGs). Conclusion: Hispanic men realize the importance of PA and what may be hindrances or facilitators to increasing PA. Funded by the National Institute on Aging (R21 AG050084-01A1).
SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS AND OBESITY IN LATER LIFE: A LONGITUDINAL ANALYSIS
Authors: Tavares Jane L , Burr Jeffrey , Miller Edward A 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The majority of U.S. older adults are overweight or obese. Social relationships are a key factor linked to obesity among younger age groups, but there are no known investigations of these modifiable risk factors older for adults. This study examined the association between quantitative and qualitative indicators of social relationships and waist circumference among middle-aged and older adults. We also examined whether psychosocial and health behavior characteristics mediate and/or moderate these relationships. Using the 2006 and 2010 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, a series of regression models were estimated to examine the longitudinal association between social relationships and waist circumference in age stratified samples (age 50 to 64; age 65 and older). Results for those age 50 to 64 indicated that higher positive social support and lower negative social support were associated with lower waist circumference over time. For those age 65 and older, lower negative social support and higher loneliness were associated with lower waist circumference over time. Further, daily exercise and anxiety were observed to be mediators of these associations; both variables also acted as moderators. Findings from this study highlight the need for healthcare providers to assess older adults’ levels of social support and loneliness in order to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of wellness. The results also underscore the importance of developing intervention programs that provide widespread and ample opportunities for older adults to engage socially, particularly those that incorporate or encourage physical activity and healthy eating.
EXPLORING STRUCTURAL BARRIERS TO MEDICAL CANNABIS ACCESS AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Arora Kanika , Arora Kanika , Bobitt Julie , Kaskie Brian 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
A growing number of older persons are using cannabis to treat medical conditions and symptoms. Preliminary work examining survey responses from persons over age 60 in Colorado and revealed the presence of structural barriers in safe and effective access to MC. In particular, older adults reported a gap in their expectations as a patient and current healthcare provider practice in counseling and educating them on MC use. To examine this from the provider perspective, we aim to survey Illinois state physicians and assess current knowledge, training needs, attitudes and practices associated with MC and older adults. Multivariate regression analysis will be conducted to predict current practice associated with MC (for example, whether physician ever certified a patient for MC) as a function of provider characteristics, as well as their knowledge and attitudes on the topic. We will also conduct sub-group analysis to understand practice patterns by specialty and experience.
SOCIAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION: FINDINGS FROM INTERNATIONAL SURVEYS
Authors: Xu Hanzhang , Wu Bei 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
This symposium examines how social and psychological factors including formal schooling, subjective memory, and neuropsychological symptoms impact cognitive function among older adults in China and the U.S. The first paper used the WHO’s Study on global AGEing and adult health Wave-1 data to examine the relationship between subjective cognitive function, perceived memory decline, and objective cognitive function among older adults in China. The results showed worse subjective cognitive function was associated with poorer working memory and verbal fluency, whereas greater perceived memory decline was associated only with poorer working memory. Furthermore, using data from the Health and Retirement Study, the second paper applied group-based trajectory modeling to assess dual trajectories of subjective memory impairment and objective cognitive decline. Four distinct dual-trajectory typologies were identified, suggesting complex co-occurring changes in subjective memory and objective cognition in older adults. The third paper characterized the trajectories of three neuropsychological symptoms (pain, insomnia, and depression) prior to dementia onset. Using data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study, the study found older adults with dementia exhibit distinct trajectory of depression before dementia onset than those without dementia. Trajectories of pain and insomnia did not differ before dementia onset. The last paper examined the effect of education on cognitive decline among lower educated older adults using data from the Longitudinal Study of Older Adults in Anhui Province, China. Results suggest that older adults with some formal schooling had slower cognitive decline; the gap in cognition between the literate and illiterate widened with age.
TRAJECTORIES OF SUBJECTIVE MEMORY IMPAIRMENT AND OBJECTIVE COGNITIVE DECLINE IN U.S. OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Xu Hanzhang , Dupre Matthew E , Wu Bei 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
We examined the dual trajectories of subjective memory impairment (SMI) and objective cognitive decline and their associated factors in U.S. older adults. We used data from the Health and Retirement Study which includes a nationally representative sample of 19,408 Americans age 65 and older from 1998 to 2016. Trajectories of SMI and objective cognitive decline were simultaneously characterized using a group-based trajectory model and multinomial logistic regressions were used to assess factors associated with the dual-trajectory typologies. Four dual-trajectories were identified: “minimal SMI and stable-low cognitive decline” (33.1% of respondents); “minimal SMI with accelerated cognitive decline” (28.2%); “significant SMI with moderate cognitive decline” (21.0%); and “moderate SMI with steady cognitive decline” (17.6%). Being male, minority, low educated, living alone, and having comorbidities were associated with trajectories featuring greater SMI or more rapid deterioration in cognition. The results suggest complex co-occurring changes in subjective memory and objective cognition in older adults.
TRAJECTORIES OF PAIN, INSOMNIA, AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS BEFORE ONSET OF DEMENTIA
Authors: Liu Minhui , Xu Hanzhang , Liu Junxin , Perrin Nancy A , Szanton Sarah L 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
This study examined the trajectories of pain, insomnia, and depression during a four-year period in community-dwelling participants aged 65 or older (N=2,486) from the National Health and Aging Trends Study. Self-reported pain, insomnia, and depressive symptoms were collected at each wave. Dementia status was determined using a modified previously validated algorithm. We analyzed retrospective trajectories of each symptom using mix-effect models and a backward timescale. We also tested for differences in each symptom trajectory between those with and without dementia. Results showed that the trajectory of depression significantly differed by dementia status (Wald χ2=388.34; P&lt;.001). Participants with dementia had persistently higher depression level than those without dementia, particularly during the year before dementia onset. Trajectories of pain and insomnia did not differ before dementia onset. Depression increases risks of dementia and studies with longer length of follow-up are needed to detect significant trajectories of pain and insomnia before dementia onset.
RACIAL DIFFERENCES IN CHARACTERISTICS AND PERCEPTIONS OF CAREGIVERS TO BLACK AND WHITE OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Fabius Chanee D , Fabius Chanee , Wolff Jennifer , Kasper Judith 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Persistent racial differences in health, socioeconomic characteristics, and service utilization of older adults likely result in differential effects for the circumstances and experiences of family and unpaid caregivers. Utilization of community-based services has been found to alleviate caregiver burden, but the extent to which supports and informal help affect race differences in caregiver perceptions (e.g. positive/negative feelings associated with caregiving) and engagement in activities such as religious services, volunteering, or visiting family and friends, is less understood. Using data from the 2015 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS; Round 5) and the National Study of Caregiving (NSOC; Round 2), nationally representative studies of Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 and older and their caregivers, this presentation will discuss the association between sociodemographic characteristics, use of assistance from others or supportive services, and perceived gains, difficulties, and social engagement among caregivers to older black and white adults.