bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
OBJECTIVE AND SUBJECTIVE SLEEP DURATION AND ACTIVITY LEVEL IN OLDER ADULTS WITH MILD DEMENTIA
Authors: McPhillips Miranda V , Kim Jinyoung , Petrovsky Darina V , Li Junxin , Talwar Sonia , Caffeé Laurel , Hodgson Nancy 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Little is known about the relationship between sleep duration and activities of daily living (ADLs) in those with mild dementia. We sought to examine the independent relationship between objective and subjective sleep duration and ADLs in community-dwelling older adults with mild dementia. Analyses were conducted on baseline data from participants enrolled in the Healthy Patterns Clinical Trial (Hodgson; R01NR015226). Measures included 24-hour wrist actigraphy for objective sleep duration, proxy-reported Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (sleep duration subscale) for subjective sleep duration and the Barthel Index for performance of ADLs. We used Spearman’s correlation and multivariate linear regression. A total of 30 individuals (56.7% male) aged 74.6 (SD 7.4) with mean Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scores of 1 (SD 0.5) were enrolled. Objective sleep duration ranged from 2.7 to 11.5 with mean 6.7 (SD 2.4) hours; subjective sleep duration ranged from 4 to 13.5 with mean 7.9 (SD 2.4) hours. Longer objective and subjective sleep duration were significantly associated with worse ADL scores (r = -0.48, p = 0.03; r = -0.59, p=0.007, respectively) in bivariate analyses. After controlling for age, CDR, and depression, subjective sleep duration was independently associated with ADLs (β = -1.90, p =0.03) and objective sleep duration trended toward significance (β = -1.47, p =0.10). These preliminary results suggest self-reported longer sleep could be indicative of declines in ADLs in older adults with mild dementia. Further prospective studies are necessary to determine the independent association between objectively assessed sleep duration and ADLs in patients with mild dementia.
IMPACT OF OFFLINE AND ONLINE SOCIAL NETWORKS ON LONELINESS AND MENTAL HEALTH AMONG ITALIAN OLDER PEOPLE
Authors: Zaccaria Daniele , Casanova Georgia , Guaita Antonio 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
In the last decades the study of older people and social networks has been at the core of gerontology research. The literature underlines the positive health effects of traditional and online social connections and also the social networks’s positive impact on cognitive performance, mental health and quality of life. Aging in a Networked Society is a randomized controlled study aimed at investigating causal impact of traditional face-to-face social networks and online social networks (e.g. Social Network Sites) on older people’ health, cognitive functions and well-being. A social experiment, based on a pre-existing longitudinal study (InveCe - Brain Aging in Abbiategrasso) has involved 180 older people born from 1935 to 1939 living in Abbiategrasso, a municipality near Milan. We analyse effects on health and well-being of smartphones and Facebook use (compared to engagement in a more traditional face-to-face activity), exploiting the research potential of past waves of InveCe study, which collected information concerning physical, cognitive and mental health using international validate scale, blood samples, genetic markers and information on social networks and socio-demographic characteristics of all participants. Results of statistical analysis show that poor social relations and high level of perceived loneliness (measured by Lubben Scale and UCLA Loneliness scale) affect negatively physical and mental outcomes. We also found that gender and marital status mediate the relationship between loneliness and mental wellbeing, while education has not significant effect. Moreover, trial results underline the causal impact of ICT use (smartphones, internet, social network sites) on self-perceived loneliness and cognitive and physical health.
THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL ISOLATION AND NEIGHBORHOOD DANGER ON OLDER ADULTS’ FUNCTIONAL STATUS
Authors: Engel Ilana J , Baker Tamara A 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Social isolation is often associated with smaller social networks, bereavement, and chronic health problems. In addition, underserved neighborhoods, without the resources and social support of other areas, may further promote social isolation among older adults. This study utilized data from the 2nd wave of the nationally representative National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP) to examine if perceived neighborhood danger mediates the relationship between social isolation and functional impairment. We hypothesized that those who are less socially connected and feel less safe in their communities may experience worse health outcomes. Data for the total sample (N=1,804; 62-91 years of age) showed that partial mediation was supported, (F 2, 1801 = 22.91, p&lt;0.01). Similar statistics were found by gender (men, F 2, 985 = 8.20, p&lt;0.01; women, F 2, 813 = 14.79, p&lt;0.01). This relationship, however, showed a stronger association among women (β = -.39, p&lt;.01) than men (β = -.26, p&lt;.05). Findings indicate that the relationship between perceived social isolation and impaired functional status may be partially explained by perceived neighborhood danger. These findings suggest that older adults who perceive their neighborhoods as dangerous, may be more socially isolated, and at risk for functional decline. These results support the Reserve Capacity Model, which posits that social resources are of increased importance for socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals. Additional research is needed to examine how such factors as stress, environment, and access to care contribute to our understanding of health outcomes among this population of adults.
DEPRESSION AMONG OLDER CANADIAN REFUGEES: THE PROTECTIVE ROLE OF SOCIAL SUPPORT
Authors: Fuller-Thomson Esme , Lin Shen (Lamson) , Kobayashi Karen , Arora Simran R , Tong Hongmei , Davison Karen 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
This study’s objective was to identify which factors attenuate refugees’ higher odds of depression. A secondary analysis of 272 refugees and 29,398 non-refugees in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging, a 2012 study of Canadians aged 45 to 85, was conducted. The prevalence of depression was higher among refugees than non-refugees (22.1% vs 15.2%, p&lt;.001). The age-sex adjusted odds of depression for refugees (OR=1.70, p&lt;.001) was only modestly attenuated when sociodemographic characteristics, physical health conditions, chronic pain, binge drinking and level of physical activity were taken into account (ORs ranged from 1.61 to 1.70, all p&lt;.05). However, in the model adjusting for social support, the odds of depression for refugees was reduced to non-significance (OR=1.30, p=0.92). Refugees have higher odds of depression than non-refugees, and this excess vulnerability is associated with lower levels of social support. Targeted interventions to decrease isolation and improve refugees’ social support warrant greater attention
NEUROENDOCRINE NETWORKS IN AGING
Authors: Sell Christian 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
It has become clear that nutrient regulatory pathways are the major determinants of lifespan. From early studies on caloric restriction to genetic ablation studies in yeast, worms, flies, and more recently mice, a unifying theme has emerged that suppressing nutrient sensing pathways and neuroendocrine networks results in lifespan extension. This work has laid the foundation for interventions designed to ameliorate late-life dysfunction. Inhibition of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway using rapamycin, an FDA-approved drug used clinically to inhibit solid organ rejection, is one of the most promising of these interventions. It has been demonstrated that rapamycin enhances longevity in mice, even when initiated in relatively old animals. We will discuss the development of anti-aging therapies, the potential for emerging therapies, and pitfalls associated with clinical trials designed to test these therapies.
THE ROLE OF NETWORKS IN TEACHING GERONTOLOGY THROUGH COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND SERVICE-LEARNING PROJECTS
Authors: Kruger Tina M 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
As we seek to prepare the next generation of researchers, teachers, and service providers in the field of aging, it is vital that students garner experience interacting directly and appropriately with older adults. Community engagement and service-learning (CE/SL) are high impact pedagogical practices associated with enhanced learning, retention, and student success and can facilitate positive interactions across generations. Creating CE/SL opportunities requires authentic relationships with community members and organizations, allowing faculty, staff, and students the opportunity to network with a variety of individuals and agencies. In this presentation, we define CE/SL, examine the role of networks in creating CE/SL opportunities, and discuss challenges and threats to effective CE/SL projects. Tools and resources will be highlighted to provide guidance to those wishing to harness the power of networks to teach gerontology content while also working to have positive, lasting, and measurable impact on the communities in which they serve.
AGING, DISASTERS, AND THE ENVIRONMENT: ROLE OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE
Authors: Phillips Judith Robertson R , Cannon Melissa L , Cong Zhen 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Continuing changes in the world’s climate put the older adult population more at risk than other age groups. Multiple circumstances such as disasters and environmental events brought about by climate change impair the ability of older adults to maintain healthy physical and psychological well-being. Unfortunately, during these times, public and individual emergency preparation plans often fall short of having the needed resources to reach out and offer assistance to older adults. Co-sponsored by the Environmental Gerontology and Disasters and Older Adults Interest Groups, four presenters will highlight multiple circumstances where older adults face serious physical and psychological consequences as a result of climate change issues: 1) the loss of electrical power and its impact on hypothermia and hyperthermia in older adults, 2) the loss of basic public health services after Hurricane Maria and its contribution to older adults’ reduced psychological well-being including increased levels of suicide, 3) homeless older adults experiencing a disaster and their resulting increased need for resources, and 4) older adults in the path of violent tornadoes and their ability to cope on their own. These presenters will discuss actions, interventions, and development of emergency disaster preparation plans that would be beneficial for older adult response and recovery. The fifth paper will review the theoretical backgrounds of and previous studies on Anthropocene with a focus on climate change policy and practice. Collectively, these papers will address various means by which older adults are affected by climate change and optimal practices to speed recovery.
ACTIONS TO REDUCE RISK OF OLDER ADULTS DURING EXTREME WEATHER EVENTS THAT THREATEN HEALTH AND LIFE
Authors: Brown Lisa M 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Climate change places many older adults at unique risk for adverse, potentially life-threatening consequences. Compared to younger adults, older adults are more susceptible to the effects of extreme weather events and at greater risk for heat stroke and hypothermia. With advanced age, some people have vulnerabilities, such as social isolation and physical and mental health conditions that predispose them to a greater level of danger. Loss of power, that leaves people without functioning cooling or heating systems, can cause death because it exacerbates preexisting medical conditions and impairs thermoregulatory function for those with medical illnesses or taking certain medications. Many older adults who function independently may not self-identify as being vulnerable and take necessary precautions to remain safe. This presentation will describe recent research that found that many older adults are unaware of hypothermia and hyperthermia symptoms and the actions needed to maintain health and life.
CLIMATE CHANGE FOR OLDER INDIVIDUALS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS: CONSIDERATIONS FOR DISASTER EVENTS
Authors: Gibson Allison 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
There is a growing field of evidence that individuals experiencing homelessness are disproportionately impacted by climate change due to factors like exposure to the elements, lack of resources and services, as well as disenfranchisement and stigma; all while experiencing greater occurrences of environmental injustice. Given that there are distinct needs for older individuals experiencing homelessness when affected by disasters, this study will report salient themes identified from qualitative interviews with five residential shelters on considerations they incorporate when disaster planning for their older residents. Thematic analysis revealed older age and homelessness have serious implications for planning, responding and in the recovery of disasters. Challenges to finding accessible transitional and permanent housing, limitations to workforce re-entry, increasing income inequality between classes, limitations to mental health services and policies, and cultural justifications for criminalizing poverty and homelessness contribute to our collective understanding of disaster vulnerability when older adults experience homelessness.
FEASIBILITY OF AN EVIDENCE-BASED MENTAL HEALTH INTERVENTION WITH OLDER ADULTS IN POST-HURRICANE MARIA PUERTO RICO
Authors: Burnette Denise 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Owing to out-migration, decreased fertility and longer lifespans, 18.5% of Puerto Rico’s population is aged 60+ -- 36% live alone and 40% are below poverty. Out-migration after Hurricane Maria may well raise the proportion of older adults to 30%. Mental health problems are among the most widespread and enduring effects of disasters. Common Mental Disorders (CMD) (anxiety, depression, traumatic stress) are most common. Before Maria, CDC data showed 38 % of persons age 65+ reported fair or poor health and 20% had been told they had a depressive disorder. In the months after Maria, the overall suicide rate rose 29%, while it more than doubled for people aged 65-69 and tripled for those aged 75- 79. This pilot study assesses the feasibility and acceptability of adapting the Friendship Bench, an evidence-based intervention developed in Zimbabwe for CMD, for use with older adults in primary care in Puerto Rico.
COGNITIVE HEALTH AND ADRD: GENDER, RACE, AND ETHNIC ISSUES
Authors: Antonucci Toni C , Ajrouch Kristine , King Jonathan W 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
This symposium addresses minority issues in aging, specifically issues of gender, race and ethnicity, in the study of cognitive health and Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia (ADRD). Cabrera examines ADRD in the Latino community noting that there are or may be important differences among subgroups of Latinos, e.g. Mexicans and Puerto Ricans, who are too often considered a homogenous group. Using qualitative methods, specifically focus groups, she explores whether these two groups have a different understanding of or different concerns about ADRD. Dallo considers the epidemiology of ADRD among Arab Americans. Noting the dearth of evidence on this ethnic group, she uses the National Health Interview Survey from 2000-2017 to examine the prevalence of ADRD among foreign-born Arab American compared to Whites, Blacks and Asians. Indiro et al., consider the long reach of childhood SES on age-related brain changes in different racial and ethnic older adults. Finally, Byrd considers gender differences in cognitive health in the Baltimore Study of Black Aging and finds that women actually report better cognitive health than men, controlling for age, education and health status despite previous literature suggesting that women experience more dementia than men. In total, this symposium highlights the need to consider contexts such as gender, race and ethnicity in order to fully understand factors influencing cognitive health and ADRD
LATINOS’ PERCEPTIONS AND CONCERNS ABOUT ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Authors: Cabrera Laura Y 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Several studies indicate that Latinos are at higher risk of developing Alzheimer Disease (AD). While research has centered on African-American/White or Latino/non-Latino differences, there exists heterogeneity within those groups. Clustering Latinos under a single group in AD resources, neglects cultural, biological and environmental differences. To address this complexity we examine perceptions and concerns about AD symptoms, diagnosis, and care among Mexicans and Puerto Ricans via six focus groups. A priori variables for thematic exploration include familiarity, cultural beliefs, trust, privacy, notions of identity and personhood. We use a pragmatic neuroethics framework as a lens to discuss and assess our findings and related implications. This will help address the multidimensional and multidirectional nature of knowledge and communication about diagnosis, treatments and nature of AD. These findings will help to identify differences and similarities among two distinct Latino groups, thereby contributing to scholarship in the fields of Latino’s health, aging, and neuroethics.
PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS FOR ADRD AMONG ARAB AMERICANS
Authors: Dallo Florence 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
In the United States (U.S.), Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) afflict over 4.7 million individuals ages 65 or older. Arab Americans are a subgroup of whites in which ADRD is not well understood. This study estimates prevalence and risk factors for ADRD among Arab Americans ages 45 or older. Data for 2000-2017 from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) using the region of birth question was used (N=222,219). The age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of ADRD was 10.3% for foreign-born Arab Americans compared to approximately 7.5% for US-born non-Hispanic whites (NHW), blacks and Asians. The prevalence of ADRD was 8.6% for Hispanics (all p-values &lt;.0001). When controlling for age and sex, Arab Americans were 1.4 times (OR=1.02,1.93) more likely to have ADRD compared to US-born NHW. Future studies should capture other generations of Arab Americans to better understand the trend of ADRD among this understudied, often invisible population.
CHILDHOOD SES AND AGE-RELATED BRAIN CHANGES RACIALLY-ETHNICALLY DIVERSE OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Turney Indira C , Arce Rentería Miguel , Chesebro Anthony G , Colon Juliet M , Schupf Nicole , Mayeux Richard P , Brickman Adam M , Manly Jennifer J 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Socioeconomic disadvantages in childhood has been linked to dementia in late life. However, the underlying pathways through which childhood socioeconomic status (CSES) affects health in old age is unclear. CSES has been linked to age-related differences in regions affected by Alzheimer’s disease (AD; e.g., hippocampus). CSES varies across race/ethnicity; It is critical to examine the relationship between CSES and age-related brain structural changes across diverse aging populations. We used an established proxy for CSES, number of siblings (i.e., sibship size), to examine whether CSES buffered age-related changes in hippocampal volume in a community-based sample of racially/ethnically diverse older adults. Sibship size moderated age-related differences in hippocampal volume in Whites (β=-5.61[-11.09,-0.12]), but not in Blacks and Hispanics. Results indicate that Whites with no sibling (vs. Whites with siblings) show less age-related difference in hippocampal volume. Future analyses will examine other CSES factors (i.e., parental education/occupation) on age-related structural changes across race/ethnicity.
POLICY SERIES: CONGRESSIONAL UPDATE
Authors: Lindberg Brian W 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
This popular annual session will provide cutting-edge information on what the 116th Congress has and has not accomplished to date, and what may be left for this year. Speakers will discuss key issues such as Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and the Older Americans Act, caregiving, the National Institutes of Health. Hill staffers, advocates, and lobbyists will present.
IDENTIFYING BARRIERS TO MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN A RURAL COMMUNITY
Authors: Maiden Robert J , Gagne Danielle , Segal Daniel l , Hayslip Jr. Bert 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Unmet mental health care needs of older people living in rural areas have been identified as a fundamental problem. This project engaged a rural consortium of service agencies to support recruitment through advertising, word of mouth, social media. So far, 100 rural participants aged 50 and older have completed our survey which includes the revised Barriers to Mental Health Services Scale, (BMHSS-R) which measures intrinsic barriers attributed to internal characteristics and beliefs, e.g. stigma, and extrinsic barriers, e.g. insurance costs, and lack of transportation. Preliminary results revealed increased services utilization compared to past research. However, several serious barriers remained, e.g. as lack of insurance/costs, distance/location, stigma, and lack of knowledge. The BMHSS-R results e demonstrate how the two types of barriers are related and interact within individuals. Implications are that internal barriers (e.g., stigma) and external ones (location, costs) can be reduced or eliminated through integrated medical/behavioral services.
USING COMMUNITY-BASED MODELS TO PROVIDE INTEGRATED CARE FOR RURAL OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Crowther Martha R , Ford Cassandra D 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Rural elders are one of the most at-risk populations for experiencing physical and mental health problems. In many rural communities, there are no psychosocial services available to meet the needs of the rural elderly. To provide rural older adults with integrated healthcare, we build upon our existing community-based infrastructure that has fostered community capacity for active engagement in clinical activities and has served as a catalyst to increase participation of rural older adults in clinical services. Our rural community model draws upon the role of culture in promoting health among rural older adults to provide rural service delivery. This model is built upon our network of partnerships with surrounding communities, including potential research participants, community-based organizations, community leaders, and community health-care systems and providers. By engaging the community we can create a sustainable system that will encourage rural older adults to utilize the health care system at a higher rate.
FAMILY DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS’ EPIPHANIES AND CHANGES IN THEIR APPROACH TO CARING FOLLOWING THE VIRTUAL DEMENTIA TOUR
Authors: Harrington Candace C , Harrington Candace C 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Previous interventional studies have failed to show long-term improvements in caregiver stress, health indices, burden, or delay in long-term care placement. The Virtual Dementia Tour® (VDT) provides a vicarious first-person perspective of symptoms related to dementia. This interpretative phenomenological study revealed family dementia caregivers’ perceptions of the VDT® and its impact on their perception of a person living with dementia. In-depth open semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten VDT® participants following a community event. Participants’ statements described a life-changing process with eye-opening epiphanies about the lived experience of dementia and served as a “call to action” to change their approach to caring. Innovative advances in family caregiving research are critical to support this valuable geriatric workforce. This original study provided new knowledge about the value of the VDT® to inform interventions that harness the unrecognized power of vicarious experiences like the VDT® for family dementia caregivers to improve long-term outcomes.