bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pain Management and Cognitive Function Among Older Adults in China
Authors: Pan Xi , Meng Hongdao 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Chronic pain and cognitive decline are common age-related conditions affecting a large segment of older populations. Little is known about the pathway of cognitive functioning during the course of pain management in older adults. The current study aimed to examine the association between chronic body pain management and cognitive function over time among Chinese older adults. A total of 792 respondents aged 60 and above from urban and rural households in 28 provinces, 150 counties/districts, and 450 communities were selected from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (2013–2015). Cognitive function was measured in three domains: episodic memory, mental status, and global cognitive function. Difference-indifferences approach and mixed-effects linear regression models were employed to assess the association between chronic body pain management and cognitive function over time. Scores of mental status were found to decline slower by 0.49 unit (SE = 0.22, p &lt; 0.05) in respondents who received pain management using analgesics, complementary and alternative medicine, or both from 2013 to 2015 after controlling for basic demographic and health confounders. Chronic pain management was associated with slower decline in domain-specific cognitive function, mental status over time. Findings of the study may contribute to understanding the mechanism of change in diverse cognitive abilities attributable to pain symptoms. More research is needed to elucidate the mediating effect of pain on cognitive decline, which could lead to testing of the impact of pain management on cognitive function among older population in both clinical and community settings.
A Systematic Review of Visual Impairment and Cognitive Decline Among Older Adults
Authors: Nagarajan Niranjani , Swenor Bonnielin , Assi Lama , Ehrlich Joshua , Whitson Heather 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Cognitive and visual impairments frequently coexist. With the aging of populations worldwide, the prevalence of these conditions are projected to increase substantially over time. A number of studies suggest that cognitive function and vision impairment are associated, and it is hypothesized to be due to a (1) common cause etiology, where both share common risk factors, and/or (2) causal association, where visual impairment causes cognitive decline. Sensory loss can lead to increased cognitive load, structural and functional changes in the brain, and/or decreased emotional, social, and physical well-being, all of which could potentially increase the risk of cognitive impairment. We conducted a systematic review of the existing literature, examining the association between cognitive and visual impairment among older adults. A total of 80 observational studies that reported a measure of association between visual and cognitive function and met the following criteria were included: (1) cross-sectional or longitudinal study design, (2) baseline mean age of participants ≥50 years, and (3) sample size of ≥100 participants. Of these 80 studies, 56 found a positive, significant association between visual function and cognitive decline. Forty-nine of the 56 studies used objective measures to test for visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, or visual fields. The sample included participants from 14 countries, including the US, UK, China, and Australia among others. Converging evidence of an association between vision impairment and subsequent cognitive decline suggests that visual impairment is a possible modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia. This hypothesis should be tested in prospective, controlled studies.
Age as an Overlooked Element of Diversity: Approaches to Addressing Intergenerational Perspectives
Authors: Graf Allyson , Carney Amy Knepple 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Outside of gerontology, age is an often underappreciated element of diversity. At a time when all generations must work together to provide inclusive, multi-faceted solutions to today’s societal problems, ageist and generational stereotypes are often barriers to meaningful intergenerational exchanges. Age derogation and negative stereotypes have been used to splinter communities, perpetuate misinformation, and trivialize intergenerational conversations. As researchers, educators, and practitioners, we understand why age matters, but our students, community leaders, and employers may not. It is our disciplinary obligation to convince those who ignore, dismiss, or misrepresent age of the importance of this aspect of diversity for navigating any multigenerational setting. In this talk, we provide three approaches to addressing age-related beliefs in the classroom. We begin by exploring the impact of generational stereotypes within minority communities. For the LGBT community, negative stereotypes coupled with rapid social change have lead to a growing generational gap. We then shift perspectives to examine the role that lifespan developmental psychology can play in preparing students to enter a diverse multigenerational workforce. Here, we discuss research on age identity and generational identity as distinct and self-enhancing life-span processes, and highlight the developmental barriers that must be navigated in order to foster intergenerational cohesion. Finally, we discuss the findings from Generation to Generation, an intergenerational discussion course for older and younger adults, designed to promote productive intergenerational contact. The results provide evidence that intergenerational discussion may facilitate improved connections between generations.
The Personal Beliefs About Aging Scale
Authors: Bowen Lauren , Silverstein Nina , Whitbourne Susan , Jansen Taylor 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Most existing ageism scales (e.g., Fabroni et al., 1990; Laidlaw et al., 2007; Rupp et al., 2005) are designed to measure younger people’s age attitudes, often asking respondents to affirm or reject stereotypes of older people. The Personal Beliefs about Aging (PBA) Scale gathers information about the degree to which respondents, regardless of age, value age diversity on their campus. Preliminary findings from a 2019-2020 University of Massachusetts system-wide electronic survey that yielded 2,563 responses across 3 (of 5) campuses indicate that most faculty (83%), staff (84%), and students (72%) perceived ageism as a serious problem in society; however far fewer considered ageism as a serious problem on their own campus, with students (20%) perceiving campus ageism to an even lesser extent than faculty (39%) and staff (36%). Part of a symposium sponsored by Age-Friendly University (AFU) Interest Group.
Fostering Continuity of Care for Massachusetts Long-Term Care Residents on Medication for Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Bertrand Rosanna , Moore Chiara , Fillo Katherine , Saunders Katherine , Baker Stephanie , Berninger Amy , Mota Teresa , Keane Nicole 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
In 2016, the CDC estimated that 2.1 million Americans had Opioid Use Disorder (OUD); about 1.8 million related to prescribed painkillers. Older adults are especially susceptible; SAMHSA estimates that 2.7 million older adults will misuse prescription drugs by 2020. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) issued a 2016 Circular Letter advising long-term care facility (LTCF) administrators that, if otherwise eligible for admission, facilities are expected to admit individuals diagnosed with OUD, and provide medication for OUD (MOUD) as prescribed. Yet, many facilities express concern for admitting residents with OUD. The MDPH and their partners are conducting a multi-faceted training/technical support (TS) program to foster best practices across the continuum of care, targeting LTCF. The 15-month program consists of in-person learning sessions, a comprehensive toolkit, on-site TS, weekly contact, and a peer-to-peer webinar. Pre-training data indicated that 24 of 42 recruited LTCFs had not admitted residents with OUD. Although licensed LTCF practitioners can obtain a waiver to prescribe certain MOUD, only 4 of the 28 LTCF medical directors interviewed had done so. Subject matter experts led topic-specific discussions in the first learning session to educate on OUD/MOUD, dispel myths, make community connections, and provide resources. Almost all participants agreed that the session met the objectives of understanding OUD as a chronic disease, recognizing the stigma of OUD, gaining knowledge of MOUD treatments, and obtaining strategies to enhance best practices across the continuum of care. All items on the pre/post-session assessments indicated a significant increase in understanding (37% versus 60%, respectively).
Assessing Age-Friendliness in Higher Education: Introducing the Inventory and Campus Climate Surveys
Authors: Silverstein Nina , Morrow-Howell Nancy 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The establishment of the Age-Friendly University (AFU) network and adoption of the 10 principles by institutions of higher education, was a major advance in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of promoting healthy and active aging through opportunities for intergenerational communities. AGHE endorsed the principles in 2016, since then over 60 institutions have joined the global network. Tools are needed to identify benchmarks that institutions can use to assess progress toward realizing the AFU principles on their own campuses. This symposium shares work done at the University of Massachusetts Boston, to develop and refine the AFU Inventory and Campus Climate Surveys (ICCS), a survey-based assessment instrument (developed from a prior pilot study in 2018) based on the premise that it is necessary to assess both the institution’s actual age-friendly practices and its perceived age-friendliness or campus climate. In August, 2019, the University of Massachusetts President’s office endorsed the 10 principles for the entire UMass system of 5 campuses, presenting an opportunity to assess a multi-campus system. To date, we have surveyed UMass Boston, UMass Lowell, UMass Dartmouth and UMass Medical (n=2,704). Testing and refinement of the AFU ICCS will contribute to both short- and long-term recommendations to assist in strategic planning by higher education institutions. Whitbourne will present the Inventory reporting tool. Bowen will present the Climate Survey. Gautam and Revell will describe the AFU work at UMass Lowell and UMass Dartmouth respectively and the use of the assessment tools on their campuses; Morrow-Howell will serve as Discussant.
The AFU Campus Inventory Tool for Assessing Age Friendliness in the Objective Environment
Authors: Whitbourne Susan , Silverstein Nina , Bowen Lauren , Jansen Taylor 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The AFU principles establish a framework that universities can use to set aspirational goals. As AFU principles become more widely adopted, there will be a need for institutions of higher education to evaluate their progress toward achieving these goals. In part, the AFU goals represent structural elements of the campus, or the “objective” environment. The AFU Campus Inventory provides an efficient, form-based, reporting tool for use by relevant campus departments to provide information on age-friendly practices, such as the prevalence of older people on campus as faculty, staff, and students; the provision of courses on aging, advising for older community members, and such amenities as reduced prices for various services. In this session, the Inventory will be demonstrated utilizing preliminary data from campuses in Massachusetts to illustrate its feasibility. Participants will be shown how to use the Inventory for adaptation at their own institutions.
Age-Friendly University Inventory: Process and Outcome from UMass Lowell Campus
Authors: Gautam Ramraj , Melillo Karen Devereaux , Hostetler Andrew 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The UMass Lowell Center for Gerontology Research and Partnerships (CGRP) has been on the Age-Friendly University (AFU) trajectory since April 2018. In April 2019, at the CGRP-sponsored 5th Annual Healthy Aging Living Well Forum, qualitative analysis of table-top discussions identified themes related to the AFU Principles: Accessibility, care, communication community education, flexibility, finances/money, recreation, inclusive society, technology and transportation. In September 2019, in collaboration with the UMass President’s Office and UMass Boston’s Gerontology Institute, we launched the AFU Climate Survey to faculty, staff, and students on the UML campus. This was followed by the AFU Inventory assessments of 12 key campus leaders and offices. Three CGRP members solicited input via email, follow-up telephone communication and information from the University website. The results presented will focus on how other educational institutions might consider proceeding with this process and how to adapt the Inventory to meet other unique campus characteristics.
Developing and Refining an End-of-Life Care Manual for Chinese Immigrant Caregivers
Authors: Liu Mandong , Chi Iris 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Planning for end-of-life (EOL) care in advance can enhance one’s quality of life at EOL and decrease caregiver stress and anxiety. Culturally sensitive educational programs are needed to educate the public and encourage advance planning. This paper describes the team’s efforts to develop and evaluate an EOL manual designed for Chinese immigrant caregivers. In 2019, one-on-one interviews were conducted with six Chinese caregivers and five Chinese geriatric social workers in Los Angeles County to obtain their feedback on manual improvement. Detailed suggestions included adding more content in the introduction to decrease fear for discussing death-related topics, such as using the concept of “life in four seasons”; having more case examples as how to initiate advance planning conversation with the older adult under different circumstances; adding content on how advance care planning and its documentation is legally protected, etc. Culturally sensitive advance planning community education is feasible among immigrant populations.
Strategies to Generate Endorsement on Campus: Aligning AFU Principles With University Strategic Plans and Goals
Authors: Barragan Cassandra , Walsh Sarah , Zakrajsek Andrea 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Over the course of two semesters, Aging Studies Program faculty affiliates at Eastern Michigan University generated interest and support in the pursuit of applying for the AFU designation. During this time, we learned that when the AFU principles were aligned with university strategic plans and goals of various academic units, we were overwhelmingly endorsed at all levels of the university. By using the AFU principles as foundation for our efforts, we approached stakeholders with a value-added perspective. This approach ensured that when we did receive endorsement, we also maintained the integrity of the AFU principles while also speaking to administrative and departmental concerns, such as enrollment, intergenerational programs, and community engagement. We will discuss strategies to build interest at all levels of the university when pursuing or building your AFU designation and provide ways to identify relevant stakeholders to build capacity while seeking endorsement for joining the AFU global network.
Medically Assisted Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder Among Elderly and Non-Elderly Medicare Beneficiaries
Authors: Miles Jennifer , Crystal Stephen , Treitler Peter , Hermida Richard 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Although medication for addiction treatment (MAT) is known to be the most effective treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD), these medications are widely underutilized, especially among older adults and racial/ethnic minorities. Of the three main MAT modalities, Medicare covered buprenorphine and naltrexone in 2017; methadone was not covered until 2020. We examined MAT prescribing among elderly compared with non-elderly Medicare beneficiaries. Our sample was drawn from a ~40% random sample of 2017 Medicare beneficiaries with Part D coverage and was comprised of elderly beneficiaries (age 65+) with OUD (N=112,314) or who experienced opioid poisoning (N=9,657), and non-elderly Medicare beneficiaries (the Medicare disability population, age 0-64) with OUD (N=161,423) or opioid poisoning (N=13,591). MAT was underutilized in both Medicare populations, but especially in the elderly population. Of elderly beneficiaries with OUD, 5.1% and 0.8% were prescribed buprenorphine and naltrexone, respectively, compared to 15.5% and 2.3% among non-elderly. Among elderly beneficiaries with opioid poisoning, 3.1% and 0.8% were prescribed buprenorphine and naltrexone, respectively, compared to 10.1% and 3.2% in the non-elderly population. Sharp racial/ethnic disparities were identified within each age group. These findings highlight the need to expand access to MAT for Medicare beneficiaries, particularly older adults among whom underutilization is pronounced. Several recent Medicare policy changes have sought to address this issue, but continuing efforts and close monitoring are warranted in an effort to dramatically increase rates of treatment for elderly with opioid use disorder.
How GWEPs Are Impacting Age Friendly and Dementia-Friendly Communities: Baystate Health
Authors: Brennan Maura 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Baystate has collaborated with Community Based Organizations (CBOs) to secure designation for Springfield, MA as both age and dementia friendly. We worked together so our city could be recognized as the first in the nation which was age and dementia friendly and also had an age-friendly health system within it. Baystate joined a Springfield coalition of CBOs; with the assistance of the Massachusetts Healthy Aging Coalition, AARP, State and local Elder Affairs, the Massachusetts Councils on Aging and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, we secured and celebrated all three recognitions at a public forum in June 2019. The event was attended by the Mayor, Baystate Health and local Elder Affairs leaders, the press and other stakeholders as well as older adults from the community. Along with ongoing efforts to improve transportation and housing, access to age-friendly health care is now also an additional area of focus for the coalition.
Age-Friendly University Initiative Applied to Health Professions Education Programs
Authors: Gugliucci Marilyn 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Opportunities for health professions (HP) education programs to make a mark in the Age Friendly University (AFU) initiative abound. Key approaches are introduced, and insights for mounting these efforts are discussed, for HP education programs based on the AFU global network initiative and the Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE). Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) that offer HP education, have various options to establish and enhance gerontology/geriatrics competence and confidence for their students. AFU guiding principles applicable to HP education allow health gerontology faculty to be catalysts to promote and integrate the AFU guiding principles within their program’s existing curriculum. This can contribute to their institution’s readiness to apply for the AFU designation, advance the institution’s age friendliness, and/or set up the program to apply for the AGHE Program of Merit (POM) for Health Professions Programs. All prepare future HP professions providers to improve older adult health care. Part of a symposium sponsored by Directors of Aging Centers Interest Group.
Older Adults as Covert Operatives in a First-Year Undergraduate Course on Aging
Authors: Carpenter Brian , McDarby Meghan , Galucia Natalie , Morrow-Howell Nancy 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Age-friendly university programs are increasing in number, yet little research has evaluated how older adults shape classroom experiences. This pilot study tested one method for analyzing intergenerational classroom dynamics. Two small-group discussion sections for an introductory class on aging included older adults (n = 3 per section) and undergraduates (n = 15 per section). Class sessions on four topics (health, sexuality, housing, relationships) were video recorded. Overall, older adults spoke proportionally more during class discussions than would have been expected by chance alone. They participated most during the session about sexuality and least in the section that addressed relationships. Specific contributions from older adults included reflections on class activities, topic-specific personal anecdotes, and reactions to younger students. Research methods to investigate intergenerational learning are emerging, and this study provides one preliminary approach. We discuss additional ideas to bring empirical rigor to this emerging field of study.
Older Adults’ Willingness to Adopt Technologies
Authors: Sharit Joseph , Czaja Sara , Moxley Jerad 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Willingness to adopt technology is an important precursor to technology adoption. This talk will present findings from a study which examined 187 older adults’ willingness to adopt a variety of mobile technologies supporting domains such as transportation, health/wellness, and lifelong learning. Participants aged 65 years and older, including 144 females, were presented with Power Point slides describing each of five technologies, and subsequently rated each technology on their willingness to adopt it as well as on the technology’s perceived value, the perceived mental effort required to learn it, confidence in one’s ability to learn it, the degree of help available from family/friends for help learning it, and privacy concerns. Other measures, including self-assessment of skills, technology readiness, technology skills, and cognitive abilities, were also collected. Interrelationships among these and other study variables will be presented as a basis for a model for predicting older adults’ willingness to adopt these technologies.
Social Associative Learning and Trust Formation Across Adulthood
Authors: Seaman Kendra , Christensen Alexander , Senn Katherine , Cooper Jessica , Cassidy Brittany 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Trust is a key component of social interaction. Older adults, however, often exhibit excessive trust relative to younger adults. One explanation is that older adults may learn to trust differently than younger adults. Here, we report a study examining how younger (N=36) and older adults (N=37) learn to trust over time. Participants completed a classic iterative trust game with three partners (15 trials each). Younger and older adults shared similar amounts but there were differences in how they shared that money. Compared to younger adults, older adults invested more with untrustworthy partners and less with trustworthy partners. As a group, older adults displayed less learning than younger adults and computational modeling suggests that older adults used different learning strategies. These findings suggest that older adults attend to and learn from social cues differently from younger adults. Neuroimaging results focused on reward processing will also be discussed.