bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
TECHNOLOGY USE IN RURAL DEMENTIA CARE: PERSPECTIVES FROM FAMILY CAREGIVERS, PWD, AND SERVICE PROFESSIONALS
Authors: Prieto Lucas R , Sun Fei , Zhang Wenwu , Kononova Anastasia 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Purpose: The use of technology in dementia care has shown promising benefits for both people living with dementia and their family caregivers, however, little is known regarding how technology is used among families affected by dementia who reside in rural communities. The purpose of this study was to explore technology use and barriers among people living with dementia, family caregivers, and service professionals who live in rural areas of Michigan. Methods: This study was based upon focus group data from six groups of family caregivers (n=32); one group of people living with early stages of dementia (n=4), and one group of service professionals (n=4) recruited from rural counties in Michigan. Results: Technology use included assisting caregiving tasks (e.g., monitoring a wandering care recipient), facilitating treatment (e.g., access treatment through telemedicine), and providing social connection and support. Themes related to strategies included addressing educational needs of young older and old-older caregivers, providing step-by-step toolkits, and collaborating with multi-sectors (e.g., public libraries, grocery stores, and churches). Discussion: Findings suggest a great need to facilitate technology literacy and competency for rural family caregivers to access caregiving resources. To effectively reach out to this population, technology methods such as local TV news network, radio, and newspaper are still beneficial. Health and social service professionals should consider collaborations with public service institutions (e.g. libraries) and faith-based organizations to include educational workshops about technology in their curriculum and training programs for dementia family caregivers.
THE INTERNET IS A BOY’S CLUB?: ANALYZING GENDER DIFFERENCES IN COMPUTER & INTERNET ADOPTION BY OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Wilson Derek A 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The realization of technology’s exponential advancement has been noted in recent years. With ever advancing technologies becoming more integrated in our everyday lives, we must adapt and learn to utilize these new technologies in order to maintain a presence in society. One group that has been stereotyped as struggling to adopt and learn the processes involved with advancing technologies is that of the older adult population. However, previous literature tends to suggest that there are also gendered differences in the adoption of different forms of modern and advancing technologies among older adults. While some articles state that older adult women have been reported to use social media than their male counterparts, conflicting previous literature states that older adult women use newer technologies less, but are more creative in their uses. With these conflicting reports, there comes a need for proper analyses on the gendered use of modern technology among older adults. Using data from the 2015 Current Population Survey (CPS) Computer and Internet Use Supplement, different demographic factors are analyzed for influences on use of technologies. The older adult age cohorts analyzed include the Baby Boomer and the Silent Generation age cohorts. This analysis includes of controlling for additional factors such as regional residence, educational attainment, and other social location variables. Contrary to much of the existing literature, there is little difference in the adoption of computer and internet technologies by older adults. Additionally, the analyses are performed on the Generation X and Millennial age cohorts for comparison.
SOCIAL ISOLATION AND COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING AMONG OLDER JAPANESE ADULTS
Authors: Okamoto Shohei , Kobayashi Erika , Liang Jersey 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
This research aimed to assess the relationship between social isolation and cognitive functioning among older Japanese adults, thereby expanding the relevant literature in two main ways. First, we estimated a social isolation score to incorporate objective measurements of social isolation into a subjective measurement. Second, a panel data analysis was utilised to consider the change in the social isolation score and time-invariant unobserved heterogeneity. Data were derived from the National Survey of the Japanese Elderly, a survey of a sample of older Japanese adults aged 60 to 99 in waves 3 through 7, which contain unified information of social isolation. The sample included 4,889 observations (1,836 individuals) for men and 6,621 observations (2,433 individuals) for women. The predicted isolation score was obtained by a random-effects ordered logistic regression (i.e., regressing a subjective feeling of isolation on variables regarding social interaction, social support, and social engagement). The association of cognitive functioning with the isolation score was estimated by a fixed-effects ordinary least squares regression, controlling for age, socioeconomic variables, health conditions, and time fixed-effects. We found that increased isolation was associated with a deterioration in cognitive functioning, both for men (coefficient: 0.66, robust standard error [SE]: 0.30) and women (coefficient: 0.90, SE: 0.26). Findings of this research highlight the importance of actions aimed at inhibiting social isolation for the prevention of cognitive decline. This approach is potentially beneficial for developing measurements of both subjective and objective social isolation and estimating the longitudinal relationship between social isolation and cognitive functioning.
QUALITY OF CONTACT WITH OLDER ADULTS AND KNOWLEDGE ABOUT AGING ARE ASSOCIATED WITH LOWER AGEISM AMONG YOUNG ADULTS
Authors: Helphrey Jessica H , Adams Cassidy M , Smith Leah N , Sawyer Jennifer , Fierro Leigh A , Edzards Sarah , Coldiron Allyson M , Barnett Michael D 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Ageism refers to stereotypes about and prejudice against individuals on the basis of age. Ageism among young adults may be different than other forms of intolerance simply because age changes; that is, young adults will grow older, and they will eventually become a member of what is presently an outgroup (i.e., older adults). The purpose of this study was to investigate whether ageism among young adults (N = 623) is more closely associated with future-oriented variables (i.e., optimism and fear of death) or whether ageism more closely resembles an outgroup attitude, which like other outgroup attitudes is mitigated by knowledge about and quality of contact with those outgroup members. Bivariate correlations found that knowledge of aging, quality of contact with older adults, and optimism were associated with lower ageism. In a multiple regression analysis, only knowledge about aging and quality of contact with older adults were associated with lower ageism. Overall, the results suggest that ageism represents more of an outgroup attitude rather than a future-oriented attitude. These results support the contact hypothesis in that knowledge of aging and quality of contact with older adults were associated with lower ageism among young adults. Education about aging and quality contact with older adults may be effective ways to reduce ageism among young adults.
DIFFERENTIAL EFFECTS OF STATINS ON COGNITION IN WOMEN AT RISK FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Authors: Wroolie Tonita E , Roat-Shumway Siena , Watson Katie , Rasgon Natalie 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
It is well established that the apolipoprotein epsilon 4 allele (APOE4) and being female are risk factors for late onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and declines in verbal learning and memory are early cognitive symptoms of conversion to AD. Because of conflicting findings regarding the effects of statins on cognition, this study examined statin use with respect to verbal learning and memory by APOE4 status in a sample of cognitively unimpaired women at risk for AD. Neuropsychological, statin use, and APOE4 data were utilized as a secondary analysis from an ongoing longitudinal study at the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute in Arizona. Subjects were cognitively unimpaired women aged 47-75 with a family history of probable AD in at least one first-degree relative. Neuropsychological outcome variables included total learning, immediate memory, and delayed memory scores from the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT). Statin use was defined by use of a cholesterol lowering drug at study enrollment. APOE4 status was defined by presence of at least one APOE4 allele. Linear regression analyses were conducted to determine existence of interactions between statin use and APOE4 status on cognition. Statistically significant interactions were found between statin use and APOE4 status in RAVLT total learning and immediate memory. Statin use in women APOE4 non-carriers was associated with better verbal learning and immediate memory performances whereas statin use in women APOE4 carriers was associated with worse performances on these same tasks. Conclusions. Findings suggest that sex and APOE4 status may be important factors in consideration of statin use.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF POSTERIOR CORTICAL ATROPHY: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Albright Amy , Burkhardt John , Ikard Catherine , Halli-Tierney Anne 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The following case study examines the presentation of Mr. Fraser*, an older adult African American male diagnosed with Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) following neuropsychological evaluation. PCA is a rare variant of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) that results in visuospatial and perceptual deficits. Unlike other forms of neurocognitive degeneration, PCA tends to present at a relatively young age and may progress rapidly. There is currently a lack of studies examining PCA from a neuropsychological perspective, which may contribute to low awareness of this condition, as well as delayed diagnosis. It has been estimated that approximately 5% of patients with AD exhibit the PCA variant, implying that this a rare but serious condition. The following case study focuses on Mr. Fraser, a 65-year-old who was referred for neuropsychological assessment to assess his cognitive functioning. Mr. Fraser was administered a comprehensive assessment battery, and his overall results were suggestive of severe deficits in delayed memory and visuospatial skills. In the case of Mr. Fraser, these observed deficits, along with identification of visual complaints noted by his geriatrician, ultimately led to a diagnosis of PCA. While this was supported by neurological testing, the DSM-5 does not currently recognize PCA as a diagnosis. As a result, Mr. Fraser was given a diagnosis of possible AD with potential PCA, which may contribute to underestimates of the prevalence of this disorder. Future research and practice should focus on common neuropsychological presentations of this condition. *Identifying information changed in accordance with HIPAA guidelines
NINE YEAR CHANGES IN PREVALENCE OF COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC
Authors: Seblova Dominika , Kuklova Marie , Kopecek Miloslav , Cermakova Pavla , Brayne Carol , Machu Vendula 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Studies from North America and Western Europe suggest stable or declining trends in impaired cognition. Nevertheless, data on changes in cognitive health from Central and Eastern Europe are largely lacking. Therefore, we aimed to examine changes in the age-specific prevalence of cognitive impairment in the Czech Republic, a country in Central Europe. To this aim we used two samples from the population-based Czech Survey on Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). Age-specific prevalence of cognitive impairment (defined based on scores in verbal fluency, immediate recall, delayed recall and temporal orientation) was compared between participants in wave 2 (2006/2007; n=1,107) and wave 6 (2015; n=3,104). Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between wave and cognitive impairment, step-wise adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Multiple sensitivity analyses, focusing on alternative operationalisations of relative cognitive impairment, impact of missing cognitive data and survival bias, were carried out. The most conservative estimate suggested that the age-specific prevalence of cognitive impairment declined by one fifth, from 11% in 2006/2007 to 9% in 2015. Decline was observed in all sensitivity analyses. Multivariate decomposition for nonlinear models was used to examine which predictors explain the change in prevalence. Reduction in physical inactivity, control of high blood cholesterol and increases in length of education were the main predictors contributing to decline in cognitive impairment. In conclusion, our findings are in line with those found in North America and Western Europe even though countries in Central and Eastern Europe, including Czech Republic, have poorer risk profiles.
“HE EXPLAINED IT TO ME AND I ALSO DID IT MYSELF”: HOW OLDER ADULTS GET HELP WITH DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Hunsaker Amanda E , Nguyen Minh Hao , Fuchs Jaelle , Djukaric Teodora , Hugentobler Larissa , Hargittai Eszter 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Older adults comprise a highly heterogeneous group that engages with digital media in varying ways, therefore a large variation in technology support needs is likely. This study examines the nature of support for using digital media among older adults. We conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with older adults (age 59+) in Hungary, the Netherlands, and Switzerland (N=58) in 2019 exploring: (1) whether and how older adults receive support in using digital media; and (2) older adults’ perceptions of whether the support they receive meets their needs. We began with open coding, then conducted consensus meetings to identify themes and coding schemes, and wrote memos to share findings and ensure reliability across coders. We find that older adults voice a highly varying range of need for technical support as well as varying instances of both receiving and not receiving technical help. Participants report receiving help from different informal (e.g. spouses) and formal (e.g. computer classes) sources. However, support may not be immediate, posing challenges for older adults who depend on the availability of their support sources. Importantly, we also find that there are older adults who are quite self-sufficient in the ways they use digital technology. For older adults needing support, greater access to community-based support may help those without satisfactory options in their own social circle. Given our findings that older adults can have great ease with solving technology-related problems, peer-driven support networks where older adults can offer support to others may be an effective approach to providing digital technology guidance.
META-ANALYSIS OF INTERVENTIONS TO REDUCE SEDENTARY BEHAVIOR AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Otmanowski Jennifer A , Rowland Sheri A , Cooper Pamela S , Chase Jo-Ana D 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
ABSTRACT BODY Sedentary behavior (SB) is associated with substantial health risks such as increased risk of cardiovascular mortality, diabetes, and cognitive and physical functioning decline. Older adults are particularly at risk as they are the most sedentary population. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to determine the overall effects of interventions designed to reduce SB among older adults. A comprehensive literature search of online databases, bibliographies, and author searches located published and unpublished studies. Included studies tested interventions to reduce SB time, were written in English, and focused on community-dwelling adults age 60 years or older. Data were extracted on sample, study design, and intervention characteristics using an investigator-developed tool. Study effect sizes were synthesized using a random effects model. Heterogeneity of effects across studies was examined; however, moderator analyses were not conducted due to the small number of included studies. Of the 2,408 reviewed citations, 22 reports were included representing 17 distinct studies, eight of which were included in the two-group post-test meta-analysis (n= 1,024 participants). Interventions overall modestly reduced SB time among older adults (d=-.25, 95% CI [-.50, .00], p=.05); however, significant heterogeneity of effect size was observed across studies (Q=22.34, p&lt;.01). Our findings demonstrate a need for more research targeting SB reduction in this high-risk population. Future research should include measures of breaks in sedentary time and types of SB (e.g., watching TV, reading) which are also critical indicators of health risk. Moreover, further exploration of relationships between health outcomes and SB intervention effects is needed.
PREDICTORS OF SUICIDE IDEATION AMONG OLDER GHANAIAN WOMEN: RESULTS FROM THE STUDY ON GLOBAL AGEING AND ADULT HEALTH
Authors: Muruthi James , DeLouize Alicia , Biritwum Richard , naidoo Nirmala , Kowal Paul , Snodgrass Josh 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 79% suicides occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in 2016 (WHO, 2018) putting a spotlight on the topic of suicide in these countries. While the rates are highest among individuals ages 15 to 29 years, suicide affects individuals, families, and communities throughout the lifespan. The topic of suicide among older adults, especially those living in LMICs, has unfortunately received limited attention. Using a sample of 228 women with depression from the first wave of the WHO’s Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE, Ghana), the present study sought to identify predictors of suicide ideation among aging African women. Binominal logistic regression results revealed that wealth (negatively) and health (negatively) were associated with suicide ideation in the sample; indicating that the women who were poor and unhealthy were more likely to have suicidal thoughts. Implications of the findings for aging Ghanaian women will be addressed.
BACTERIAL PNEUMONIA IS A POSSIBLE RISK FACTOR FOR ORAL CANDIDIASIS IN OLDER ADULTS: A RETROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY.
Authors: Nakajima Masato , Umezaki Yojiro , Yamaguchi Masahiro , Makino Michiko , suzuki Nao , Yoneda Masahiro , Hirofuji Takao , Morita Hiromitsu 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Both aspiration pneumonia and oral candidiasis are caused by opportunistic infection of intraoral commensals and have many similar risk factors linked to oral health in older adults. Candida albicans forms biofilms with respiratory bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The aim of our study was to determine the relationship between bacterial pneumonia, including aspiration pneumonia, and oral candidiasis in older patients who were hospitalized with several systemic diseases in a community-based acute care hospital without a dental unit. We retrospectively analyzed 228 older patients (male: 105, female: 123) using multiple logistic regression. The mean age of the patients was 81.3 (SD: 11.1) years. Forty-four patients were oral candidiasis positive, and 78 patients suffered from bacterial pneumonia, including aspiration pneumonia. Results showed that bacterial pneumonia had the strongest statistical relationship with oral candidiasis (p=0.000, OR: 5.173, 95 % CI: 2.368–11.298). This was followed by poor oral hygiene (p=0.001, OR: 6.095, 95 % CI: 2.003–18.545) and severe dry mouth (p=0.043, OR: 2.507, 95 % CI: 1.031–6.098). Other conventional risk factors for oral candidiasis, such as diabetes mellitus, denture wearer, dysphagia, malnutrition, requiring care, use of inhalation steroids, were not statistically significant in this study. Fifteen species of bacteria, including Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, were detected by pharyngeal sputum culture in 24 of 31 patients who were diagnosed with both oral candidiasis and bacterial pneumonia. In conclusion, bacterial pneumonia is a possible new risk factor for oral candidiasis in older adults.
THE IMPACT OF “TELE-SAVVY” ON THE CAREGIVING EXPERIENCE OF DEMENTIA FAMILY CAREGIVERS: QUALITATIVE FINDINGS
Authors: Epps Fayron , Maloch Elizabeth , Griffiths Patricia , Hepburn Ken 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Tele-Savvy is a 3-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) of a psychoeducation intervention that equips family caregivers of people living with dementia with the knowledge and skills they need to provide care to their person, while also caring for themselves. This RCT is currently underway, with cohorts rotating through over a period of 12 months. The purpose of this presentation is to describe the effectiveness of Tele-Savvy (active) versus Healthy Living Intervention (attention control) or usual care (wait-list) on the caregiving experience among dementia family caregivers. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 16 caregivers at the 6 month time point and after their initial participation in either the active, attention control, or usual care groups. Interviews elicited caregivers’ perceptions regarding the program’s influence on their caregiving experience. Caregivers who participated in Tele-Savvy reported positive experiences such as recognizing that their experience has become more pleasurable and happier. They also shared that the program expanded their knowledge and allowed them to become patient while implementing caregiving strategies learned. Majority of caregivers who participated in the Healthy Living program indicated that nothing changed related to their caregiving experience. Half of the caregivers in the usual care group, expressed frustration and unhappiness, while the others expressed no change in their caregiving experience. Results suggest that psychoeducation caregiver interventions are meaningful and can enact positive changes in their outlook on caregiving. Thus, results of this study may guide future policies and further development of caregiver programs and interventions.
DIFFERENTIAL EFFECTS OF VARYING DOSES OF DIETARY NITRATE ON MUSCLE FUNCTION AND BLOOD PRESSURE IN OLDER SUBJECTS
Authors: Coggan Andrew R , Gallardo Edgar , Gray Derrick A , Hoffman Richard , Moorthi Ranjani 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
We have recently demonstrated that dietary nitrate, a source of nitric oxide via the enterosalivary pathway, can improve muscle contractile function in healthy older men and women. Nitrate ingestion has also been shown to reduce blood pressure in older individuals. However, the optimal dose for eliciting these beneficial effects is unknown. We therefore performed a randomized, double-blind, crossover study to determine the effects of ingesting 3.3 mL/kg of beetroot juice (BRJ) containing 0, 212, or 425 µmol/kg of nitrate in six healthy older (age 69±3 y) subjects. Maximal knee extensor speed (Vmax) and power (Pmax) were measured 2 h after BRJ ingestion using isokinetic dynamometry; blood pressure was monitored periodically throughout each study. Mean arterial pressure (in mmHg) was lower (P&lt;0.05) after the high (80±4) vs. the low (84±3) or placebo (88±2) doses. Vmax (in rad/s), however, was higher (P&lt;0.05) after the low dose (11.7±0.8), but not the high dose (10.8±1.0), compared to the placebo (10.5±1.0). Pmax (in W/kg) also tended to be higher (P=0.11) in the low (3.9±0.5) compared to the placebo (3.7±0.5) or high (3.7±0.5) trials. Five out of six subjects achieved a higher Vmax and Pmax after the low vs. the high dose. We conclude that dietary nitrate has differential effects on muscle function and blood pressure in older individuals. A high dose of nitrate intake further lowers blood pressure but does not enhance muscle contractility as much as a lower dose. Supported by Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis and by the NIA (R21 AG053606)