bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
DISABLEMENT IN CONTEXT: DO SOCIAL NETWORKS MODERATE THE IMPACT OF INCREASING FUNCTIONAL IMPAIRMENT ON WELL-BEING?
Authors: McConnell William R , Dembo Robbie 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Older adults with disabilities face a higher risk of experiencing poor health and social isolation in later life. Prior research has shown that social factors such as supportive relationships can modify disablement trajectories and reduce the likelihood of negative outcomes. Although research has considered the functional benefits of relationships through examining mechanisms like social support provision, the effects of network structure on the disablement process are not well understood. This study examines multiple social network mechanisms to explain the link between disability, health, and social participation among older adults. We ask, do social networks characteristics mediate or moderate the effects of increasing functional impairment on health and social participation? We analyze longitudinal panel data from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project 2005 & 2010, including 2,261 adults aged 57-85. Respondents named 9,587 network members in 2005. We model indicators of health and social participation at 5-year follow-up using trajectories of functional impairment and social network characteristics. We find that larger, denser, and more supportive networks are associated with better health and more frequent social activity at follow-up. Furthermore, social network structure mediates the relationship between increasing functional impairment and health, but moderates the effect of impairment on social participation. For example, participants with more dense networks are more likely to maintain high social activity at follow-up, even at relatively high levels of impairment. This study demonstrates that functional impairments are not inherently disabling. Instead, personal and social resources can reduce the potential burdens of impairment in individuals’ lives.
ARE LEISURE AND CIVIC ACTIVITIES REINFORCING WELL-BEING IN OLDER ADULTS AT RISK OF FRAILTY?
Authors: Dury Sarah , Dierckx Eva , De Donder liesbeth , Lambotte Deborah , Duppen Daan , switsers lise 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
A growing body of work suggest that leisure and civic activities may contribute to the understanding of healthy aging. Yet, only a limited number of studies have examined a less healthy population. Moreover, a broad array of leisure and civic activities tend to be lacking. This paper gives insight into the mechanisms underlying the associations between multidimensional frailty, and well-being with the moderating roles of leisure and civic activities. A two-wave interview survey from the D-SCOPE frailty program was derived using 441 participants aged 60 years and older residing in the Flanders region of Belgium. This study offers evidence that leisure and civic activities buffered the negative relationship between multidimensional frailty and well-being. Moreover, our study identified that for different frailty domains the buffering/moderating role of leisure and civic activities differs in relation to well-being.
ESPO/HEALTH SCIENCES: STRENGTH IN NUMBERS: LEVERAGING THE POWER OF NETWORKS FOR RECRUITING OLDER ADULTS AND CAREGIVERS
Authors: Moss Karen O , Prasad Anyah , Epps Fayron 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Recruitment of older adults and/or their family caregivers for participation in research is challenging. This process is further complicated by population or procedure-specific factors that can impede recruitment efforts. The purpose of this symposium is to describe various recruitment challenges and solutions as well as strategies used to engage older adults and family caregivers in research. Dr. Glenna Brewster will present recruitment strategies used for a multisite telehealth intervention for caregivers of persons living with dementia. Dr. Todd Monroe will examine barriers and solutions for recruitment and retention of persons with Alzheimer’s disease for neuroimaging studies. Dr. Karen Moss will share strategies used to recruit family caregivers of African American older adults with dementia for end-of-life research. Dr. Shiva Prasad will share strategies to recruit LGBT older adults to a study on exploring the idea of an LGBT online senior center, and Dr. Karen Rose will describe stigma associated with recruiting persons with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, and their family caregivers, including best practices from the literature coupled with lessons learned from experiences. Shared strategies and solutions will assist researchers in identifying and addressing recruitment challenges and help to ensure recruitment of diverse groups of older adults and/or family caregivers for studies that use various research methodologies, including leveraging the power of professional and community-based networks. Increasing research participation will yield the knowledge necessary for improving health outcomes for older adults and their family caregivers living with serious chronic illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
POLICY SERIES: ADDRESSING LONELINESS AMONG OLDER ADULTS THROUGH RESEARCH, COMMUNITY PROGRAMS, AND A NEW FEDERAL POLICY AGENDA
Authors: Solway Erica , Lindberg Brian W 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Millions of older adults experience feelings of loneliness. A growing body of research has found that chronic loneliness can impact memory, physical well-being, mental health, and life expectancy rivaling the impact on health outcomes of obesity and smoking. Loneliness has been found to impact memory, physical well-being, mental health, and life expectancy. In this session, GSA policy advisor Brian Lindberg will lead a data-driven discussion about who experiences loneliness and isolation and how we might create opportunities for connectedness through new areas of research, forward-thinking policies, and innovative community programs. Presenters include Erica Solway, associate director for the National Poll on Healthy Aging, who will highlight results from a poll conducted in October 2018 among a nationally representative sample of adults age 50 to 80 which found that more than one in three respondents felt a lack of companionships and more than one in four felt socially isolated. Then Catherine Spensley, Director of the Senior Division at Felton Institute, will describe lessons learned in developing and delivering culturally and linguistically appropriate programs and services that foster community and social connections among socially isolated, low income older adults in San Francisco. Finally, Andrew MacPherson, Principal at Healthsperien, LLC, and Director of the Coalition to End Social Isolation & Loneliness will describe stakeholder efforts to advocate for federal legislative and regulatory policy options to address the epidemic including increased funding for and access to supportive services, health care, technology, and public and private research initiatives.
LONELINESS AND HEALTH AMONG OLDER ADULTS: RESULTS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN NATIONAL POLL ON HEALTHY AGING
Authors: Solway Erica , Piette John , Kirch Matthias , Singer Dianne , Kullgren Jeffrey , Malani Preeti 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
In October 2018, the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging conducted an online survey using a nationally representative household sample of adults age 50 to 80. One in three respondents (34%) reported feeling a lack of companionship and 27% reported feeling isolated from others some of the time or often during the past year. Those with fair or poor self-reported physical health, mental health, or hearing were more likely to report feeling a lack of companionship or feel isolated as were those who reported less frequently engaging in healthy behaviors. More than one in four (28%) reported social contact with people outside of their household once a week or less. Given the high prevalence of loneliness and its connection to poor health and health behaviors, research on this important issue and efforts to increase social engagement among older adults deserve increased attention.
SOCIOECONOMIC, BIOLOGICAL, AND COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS WITH OLD-AGE MORTALITY IN CHINA
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Strauss John A , Hu Peifeng , Zhao yaohui , Crimmins Eileen M 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Determinants of mortality may differ depending on context. This study uses a nationally representative sample of persons aged 60 and over in China to determine if socioeconomic factors, early life conditions, community characteristics, biological and physical functioning, and disease burden predict four-year all-cause mortality. We employed a series of Weibull hazard models based on exact survival time to predict mortality. We find that current education and place of residence, physical functioning, uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, cancer, a high level of systemic inflammation, and poor kidney functioning are strong predictors of mortality among older Chinese. We did not find linkages between early-life experiences or community infrastructure to mortality at older ages. Results from this study highlight the value of incorporating biological and performance measurements and the importance of social and historical context in studying old-age mortality.
SPILLOVER EFFECTS OF A HUSBAND’S RETIREMENT ON A WOMAN’S HEALTH: EVIDENCE FROM URBAN CHINA
Authors: Zang Emma 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
This paper examines the effect that a man’s retirement has on his wife’s mental and physical health. I exploit the large increase in the probability of retirement at the legal retirement age for urban male wage earners in China as a natural experiment, using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS). I have implemented a fuzzy regression discontinuity design to compare the health outcomes of women whose husbands recently retired with those whose husbands are close to retire. My findings indicate that the retirement of her spouse improves physical and mental well-being of the woman, most likely by increasing the frequency of her social interactions and exercising. Although income and marital quality are less likely to be the main channels through which this positive spillover effect operates, decreased marital satisfaction or severe income constraints can be binding.
THE ROLE OF ENGAGEMENT IN SUPPORTING AND LEVERAGING GERONTOLOGY AND GERIATRIC PROGRAMS
Authors: Fruhauf Christine 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
For nearly 20 years, gerontology and geriatric administrators and faculty have been challenged by managing “tough times” related to low enrollment and reduced or limited funding for their programs. At the same time, the aging population continues to increase and the need for highly trained individuals to work with and on behalf of older adults are needed in all sectors of the workforce. In this paper, I will build on previous empirical and theoretical work from AGHE and GSA Fellows as I integrate personal experience from my fifteen years at a land-grant university, whereby I serve as the coordinator of our undergraduate gerontology minor. In particular, in an effort to uplift the 2019 conference theme, I will organize my thoughts from the lens of university-community engagement, as I describe how to best harness networks to support and leverage gerontology and geriatrics programs.
TARGETING TRYPTOPHAN-KYNURENINE METABOLISM TO EXTEND LIFESPAN AND TREAT AGE-ASSOCIATED DISEASE
Authors: Sutphin George L , Sutphin George L 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The kynurenine pathway, the major route for tryptophan catabolism, becomes dysregulated with age and in many age-associated pathologies in humans. Interventions targeting kynurenine metabolism are being pursued for neurodegeneration, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. By manipulating kynurenine pathway enzymes and metabolites, we have extended lifespan up to 40% in Caenorhabditis elegans. Our most promising single target is the metabolite 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid dioxygenase (3HAA). Elevating physiological 3HAA by directly supplementing 3HAA or inhibiting the enzyme 3HAA dioxygenase (HAAO) extends worm lifespan by ~30% while reducing oxidative stress by directly degrading hydrogen peroxide. In rodents, anti-inflammatory activity of 3HAA improves outcomes in models of cardiovascular disease, asthma, and autoimmune encephalomyelitis. We are now beginning to validate our C. elegans work in mice and investigating a mechanistic model in which 3HAA acts to extend healthy lifespan by slowing age-associated accumulation of oxidative damage and repressing chronic inflammation.
AFRICAN AMERICAN FAITH LEADERS IN FLINT, MICHIGAN, FACILITATING ACCESS TO SEXUAL HEALTH INFORMATION
Authors: Senteio Charles R 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
In 2006, to respond to the HIV pandemic, the Flint-based YOUR Center collaborated with the National Coalition of Pastors’ Spouses to create an HIV Awareness and Prevention manual for African American faith communities. In 2006 this manual was transformed into Your Blessed Health (YBH), a community-level education and prevention intervention that provides HIV/STI health information to medically underserved communities throughout Michigan. Since then, YBH has trained over 200 faith leaders across 9 denominations in over 80 FBOs across Michigan to help disseminate information concerning the community-level impact of HIV. The YBH impact on congregants and community members has been detailed in peer-reviewed articles and presentations; however, the involvement of the faith leaders themselves has not been described. To address this gap in the literature, we conducted semi-structured interviews with African American faith leaders representing 20+ congregations in Flint who participated in YBH and welcomed the intervention into their congregations. Preliminary results show that faith leaders, whose median age is 65, embraced their role as conduits to health information in the interest of ministering to the “whole person”. They remain committed to educating themselves, and their congregants, to providing health information for various health and wellness issues. Detailing this impact is critical because community-health education and promotion literature suggests that older adult faith leaders can facilitate access to sexual health information through faith-based organizations, and may possess untapped potential as sources of health information across various health conditions. Older adult faith leaders are vital sources of information for medically underserved communities.
REFRAMING INTERGENERATIONAL FAMILIAL RELATIONSHIPS THROUGH THE STUDY OF GRANDPARENT-GRANDCHILD CONNECTIONS
Authors: Mendoza Nancy , Mendoza A Nancy , Fruhauf Christine A 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Intergenerational relationships include non-familial and familial connections. Common familial bonds exist between grandparents and grandchildren. Although grandparent-grandchild connections have over 40 years of research, measurement and design gaps remain. With this paper, we will address new approaches to examining grandparent and grandchild relationships in an effort to understand how this connection impacts our attitudes on aging. Specifically, we will discuss the opportunities of approaching such relationships from a longitudinal perspective. The grandparent-grandchild relationship can span close to 30 years, and yet knowledge of relationship stability and change between individuals in these family roles is limited. We will highlight the conference theme by presenting how social network analysis (SNA) applied to empirical data of grandparents raising grandchildren can reframe aging’s network ties. Further, future research using SNA with grandchildren will be addressed as a way to build on previous work, extending our knowledge of intergenerational relationships from the family perspective.
CORRELATES OF LONELINESS AMONG OLDER ASIAN IMMIGRANTS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Wang Yihan , Woo Bongki , Jiang Nan 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Loneliness is a prevalent social concern among older adults, which calls for attention as a condition itself and its influence on mental and physical conditions. However, limited efforts have been made to understand loneliness, particularly among immigrant older adults. Guided by the ecological perspective, the present study contributes to the literature by providing a systematic review of the prevalence and individual-, household-, and community-level correlates of loneliness among Asian older immigrants, one of the fast-growing immigrant population. Following the PRISMA guideline, we systematically searched eight electronic databases to identify relevant empirical research articles. Of the 828 articles identified, ten articles met the inclusion criteria. Majority of these articles focused on older Chinese and Korean immigrants. On the individual level, migration grief, longer length of residence, and weaker ethnic attachment were linked to higher level of loneliness, indicating that immigration can be a challenging experience for later life well-being of Asian older adults. Other identified correlates include mental and functional impairment and worsening health changes. On the household level, while living alone was a commonly identified correlate of loneliness, those who live with family also reported loneliness when they have fewer interactions with their family members. On the community-level, smaller social network and lack of social support and interactions were correlates of loneliness. The findings of the present study are helpful for identifying older Asian immigrants who may be at risk of loneliness and implicates that the efforts to mitigate the loneliness need to be made at various ecological levels.
RECIPROCAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COGNITIVE STATUS AND HIERARCHY FUNCTIONAL LOSS AMONG FRAIL OLDER ADULTS IN CHINA
Authors: Sun Qian , Jiang Nan , Lu Nan , Lou Vivian W 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The present study aimed to determine the reciprocal relationship between cognitive status and the loss hierarchy of specific functional activities among frail older adults in China. Data were derived from a sample of 469 older adults who participated in both the 2010 and 2013 waves of the Longitudinal Study on Family Caregivers for Frail Older Adults Aged 75 or Above in Shanghai, China. A two-wave cross-lag analysis was used to examine the proposed model. In general, the results showed that cognitive status in 2010 was a significant predictor of dependence in activities of daily living (ADLs) in 2013. Specifically, cognitive status at baseline has significant effects on feeding [β (SD) = -0.198 (0.043), p &lt; .001], continence [β (SD) = -0.172 (0.045), p &lt; .001], bladder [β (SD) = -0.159 (0.045), p &lt; .001], toileting [β (SD) = -0.119 (0.043), p &lt; .001], hygiene [β (SD) = -0.108 (0.044), p &lt; .05], stairclimbing [β (SD) = -0.101 (0.044), p &lt; .05], and dressing in 2013 [β (SD) = -0.100 (0.045), p &lt; .05]). Furthermore, toileting and bathing in 2010 were significant risk factors of cognitive status in 2013 [toileting: β (SD) = -0.146 (0.066), p &lt; .05; bathing: β (SD) = -0.113 (0.047), p &lt; .05]. The findings not only expanded our understandings of the relationship between cognition and the hierarchy of functional loss, but also provided evidences for clinicians and service planners for anticipating the subsequent care and service needs of the elderly and their families.
SUSTAINING STAR-VA: EVALUATING SYSTEMIC OUTCOMES AND TEAM STRATEGIES FOR MANAGING BEHAVIOR SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA
Authors: Curyto Kim , Van Haitsma Kimberly 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has invested in the implementation and evaluation of STAR-VA, a Veteran-centered, interprofessional intervention for managing behavioral symptoms of dementia (BSD), with 86 Community Living Center (CLC nursing home) teams between 2013 and 2018. Results of a VHA Quality Enhancement Research Initiative (QUERI) partnered evaluation project are presented, including a multi-site interprofessional network created to collaborate on evaluation of the longitudinal impact of STAR-VA on CLC Veteran- and site-level outcomes, and to determine factors associated with sustained implementation and positive outcomes. The development and validation of a Minimum Data Set quality indicator of behavior symptoms of dementia (BSD) is presented. Characteristics of STAR-VA trained and untrained CLCs are presented, along with facilitators and barriers to sustained program implementation. Findings support the effectiveness of implementation of STAR-VA on decreased use of psychotropic medication. Qualitative outcomes demonstrate importance of having the appropriate staff, positive team relationships, supportive usual routines, and culture as critical for STAR-VA sustainability efforts. Results emphasize the importance of using a valid, routine measure of BSD to provide feedback to CLC teams, and to develop a sustainability intervention focused on addressing reported barriers to program sustainability through interprofessional networks. Both qualitative and quantitative outcomes will inform development and recommendations for an implementation and evaluation strategy for an outcome-driven, tailored intervention to support CLC teams in sustaining STAR-VA and to improve poor-performer and maintain high-performer outcomes. The potential benefit of our findings for other interprofessional behavioral nursing home interventions will be discussed.
CANCER, COGNITION, AND COMMUNICATION: A 2-DAY INTERPROFESSIONAL GERIATRIC PSYCHO-ONCOLOGY SYMPOSIUM
Authors: Gangai Natalie , Manna Ruth , Banerjee Smita , Muniz Rosario Costas , Nelson Christian , Korc-Grodzicki Beatriz 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Background: Most cancer deaths are in patients older than 65 years. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) caring for older adults with cancer must be equipped with skills to manage cognitive related changes and the nuances of communication with patients and caregivers. Methods: A two-day interprofessional symposium was developed to increase knowledge regarding 1) chemotherapy-related cognitive changes; 2) distress, delirium, dementia and depression in older cancer patients; 3) communication with patients with cognitive deficits and their caregivers; 4) decision making capacity. Presenters include geriatric medicine, geriatric psychiatry, occupational therapy and legal, ethics and communication experts. Day one centered on didactics with a complex case interprofessional discussion. Day two comprised of a communication skills training consisting of three modules: Geriatrics 101, Communication and Cognitive Deficits and Shared Decision Making. Participants role-played with simulated older adult patients and caregivers. Knowledge, self-efficacy and satisfaction were assessed. Results: A total of 75 people attended day one and 33 people attended day two. Most attendees were white (74.4%) and female (85.4%). Nurses (36.6%), social workers (29.3%), physicians (14.6%), others (19.5%) were represented. Mean knowledge increased (t=-3.23, df (13), p&lt;0.05) from pre (M=0.83) to post (M=0.96). Mean self-efficacy in communication skills increased significantly across the three modules from 3.33 to 4.51 on a 5-point Likert scale (t=-6.40, df=23, p&lt;0.001). Discussion: This two-day symposium shows an increase of knowledge and self-efficacy among HCPs caring for older adults. Skills related to cognitive changes and communication are essential to providing patient-centered care and making shared decisions with older adults and their caregivers.