bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
JOINT GOALS IN OLDER COUPLES: ASSOCIATIONS WITH GOAL PROGRESS AND RELATIONSHIP SATISFACTION
Authors: Ungar Nadine L , Michalowski Victoria I , Bähring Stella , Gerstorf Denis , Ashe Maureen C , Madden Kenneth M , Hoppmann Christiane A 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Goals often involve close others such as spouses, but we know little about how this helps or hinders goal progress and what couple consequences arise. To examine these questions, we investigate associations between joint goals, goal progress, and relationship satisfaction by applying multi-level modeling to data from 119 couples (50% female; Mage=71 years). Participants listed their most important goals and reported if they wanted to achieve these together with their partner (self-rated joint goals). 85% self-reported at least one joint goal. Two raters classified goals as “joint” if both partners mentioned the same goal. Positive illusions–i.e., older adults thinking a goal was joint although it was not reported by the spouse–were frequent. Number of joint goals was related to increased goal progress but only for those with low positive illusions, whereas positive illusions were linked to higher relationship satisfaction. We discuss theoretical and practical implications of our findings.
GOING FOR THE WIN-WIN-WIN: HARNESSING THE POWER OF SENIOR VOLUNTEERISM TO ADDRESS DEMENTIA CARE AND PROMOTE HEALTH
Authors: Samus Quincy M , Gaugler Joseph E , Rebok George W 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The public health implications of Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias (ADRDs) are significant and have placed considerable pressure on the U.S. healthcare system. Training and mobilizing a critical mass of volunteers to address unmet dementia care needs may be a potent, scalable, and cost efficient approach to address gaps in dementia care and to support family caregivers. Further, by engaging older volunteers to do this work and remain in productive and impactful post-retirement roles, additive population health benefits may be possible. This session will focus on ways we might harness the power of senior volunteers to meet the public health challenges associated with ADRD. Presentations will draw from three innovative community-based projects that utilize senior volunteers to support and enhance health in aging and dementia care. Dr. Carlson will provide an update on the evaluation and scaling Experience Corps, an intergenerational program that engages senior volunteers to work in elementary schools. Dr. Gaugler will discuss the Porchlight Project, a new multicomponent training approach for senior volunteers in Minnesota to enhance dementia care capabilities and support to underserved older persons. Dr. Samus will introduce the MEMORI Corps program, a novel activity-based companion care program for home-residing persons with ADRD delivered by trained senior volunteers. Given the current and impending shortages in the geriatric work force and family caregivers, respectively, innovative and readily available long term service and support options are needed to offset potential care gaps. The current session proposes the novel incorporation of volunteers as one solution to do so.
THE ROLE OF GERONTOLOGISTS IN ACHIEVING THE UN’S SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Authors: Antonucci Toni C 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) developed by the United Nations in 2015 have as their underlying theme, the pledge that no one will be left behind. The SDGs address global poverty, inequality, climate change, the environment, peace and justice. They are intended to be global benchmarks to be reached by 2030 to ensure well-being and prosperity while protecting and promoting human rights and freedoms (UN, 2015). They envision a world without poverty, where all persons can live with dignity and security in societies free of violence and discrimination based on the foundation of universal human rights. The 17 goals and their 169 targets cover a range of social and economic development issues from poverty and gender inequality to climate change and sustainable cities. These goals are both interrelated and indivisible with each important for individual and social well-being. For example, achieving gender equality can help eradicate poverty while improved health can contribute to increased individual productivity and economic growth. Unfortunately, the needs of older people are larger ignored. In this symposium we outline how gerontologists can and have contributed to the SDG goals. We provide input from four disciplines whose work directly addresses the needs of older people. The four disciplines are: health- how do we meet the health needs of older people, psychology – what are the mental health issues facing older people, public policy – how can\has governments assist through laws and policy, and social work – how can social work address the needs of the vulnerable old.
ONE HUNDRED MILLION HEALTHIER LIVES: MEASURING WHAT MATTERS
Authors: Cameron Kathleen A , Herrera-Venson Angelica 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The rise of chronic disease, an aging population, inequity in health care access and outcomes, and new technology demand a fundamentally different approach to fostering health—one that brings sectors together to address the social and behavioral determinants of health. To address these concerns, NCOA is leading the Aging Hub of the 100 Million Healthier Lives (100MLives), an initiative convened by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. 100MLives is a collaboration of change agents across sectors working to transform how the world thinks and acts to improve health, well-being, and equity across the lifespan. NCOA is collaborating with national and local organizations, as well as federal agencies to support a nationwide ecosystem for measuring, fostering, and bringing to scale innovations that address social and behavioral determinants of health. The Aging Hub is committed to consistently measuring what matters (adult well-being assessment-AWA), learn what programs and services within the aging network improve a person’s life, and work with partners to scale those programs. The initiative encourages use of the Adult Well-Being Assessment, a validated 7-question survey that asks individuals to rate their overall well-being; financial, physical, mental, and spiritual health; and social support. Shared use of these outcome measures can make it easier for the aging network to demonstrate the impact of their programs and services. Join NCOA to learn about progress to date, including a report on AWA and demographic data collected by the Baltimore County Department with over 10,000 older adults and how data is being used to improve service delivery.
HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF SOCIAL ROLES AND ROLE TRANSITIONS IN MIDLIFE AND LATER LIFE
Authors: Cichy Kelly E , Koumoutzis Athena 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Demographic and social trends shape the timing, nature, and implications of social roles and transitions. With increased life expectancy and a changing world, expectations for work and retirement and the need for informal and formal caregiving continue to evolve. Families are also more heterogeneous and the population is becoming increasingly more racially/ethnically diverse. These changes underscore the need for research that focuses on the varied social roles individuals occupy in midlife and later adulthood and the implications of these roles for health and well-being. The current symposium features research that explores multiple roles, including romantic partner, grandparent, and employee/retiree, caregiver/care recipient while attending to individual differences in how these roles and transitions are associated with physical and mental health outcomes. Garcia, Donnelly, and Umberson utilize dyadic diary data from midlife men and women in gay, lesbian, and heterosexual marriages to consider how exposure and reactivity to daily stress varies across union types. Rickenbach and colleagues examine longitudinal changes in health and well-being associated with being a caregiving and non-caregiving grandparent. Cichy and Koumoutzis examine racial differences in the associations between providing care to a spouse/parent and daily health and well-being among African Americans and European Americans. Savla, Roberto, and Sands classify community-living older adults based on their care needs while considering the type of care they receive, predictors of this care, and its implications for care recipients’ health. Finally, Stawski and colleagues examine how mental, physical, and cognitive health change as a function of the transition to and through retirement.
AGING-RELATED CHANGES IN MENTAL, PHYSICAL, AND COGNITIVE HEALTH: THE IMPACT OF THE RETIREMENT TRANSITION
Authors: Stawski Robert S , Chandler Kelly D 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Retirement is an important transition in later life, associated with changes in social roles. It is unclear, however, whether the retirement transition modifies aging-related changes in mental, physical, and cognitive health. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study, we examined changes in depressive symptoms, self-rated health, and memory prior to, at, and after the retirement transition among 6,830 participants (Ages=50-97, 58% female) assessed biennially up to 10 times from 1992-2010. Preliminary results indicate a sudden and significant increase in depressive symptoms and decreases in self-rated health and memory at the transition to retirement (ps&lt;.05). These effects increased among individuals retiring at older ages (ps&lt;.01). Further, aging-related increases in depressive symptomatology became faster after retirement (p&lt;.01). Aging-related decreases in self-rated health and memory were unchanged by the transition. Discussion will focus on the contribution of transitions to understanding trajectories of mental, physical, and cognitive health in later life.
THE IMPACT OF LIFESTYLE BEHAVIORS ON HEALTHY AGING TRAJECTORIES: THE ATHLOS PROJECT
Authors: Daskalopoulou Christina , Wu Yu-Tzu , Koukounari Artemis , Terrera Graciela Muniz , Tyrovolas Stefanos , Panagiotakos Demosthenes , Prince Martin , Prina Matthew 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The number of people above 60 years old will double by 2050. There is a considerate variability in the health status of older people. The identification of the different trajectories that people follow as they grow older constitutes one of the aims of the ATHLOS project. In the current study, we created a metric of health in the four available waves (2001, 2003, 2012, 2015) of the Mexican Health and Aging Study (MHAS) by employing Bayesian multilevel Item Response Theory. Growth mixture modelling indicated that older Mexicans (n=14,143) age by following four distinct pathways (i.e. high-stable, moderate-stable, low-stable, decliners). Adherence to healthy lifestyle behaviours (i.e. physical activity, non-smoking, limited alcohol consumption) was associated with better health trajectories. Preliminary analyses in the ATHLOS harmonised dataset also suggest that older people age by following four distinct pathways. The impact of lifestyle behaviours within the harmonised dataset will be investigated and also presented.
COMMUNITY MEETINGS AS SITES OF RESILIENCE AND TRAUMA: INVESTIGATING ADVOCACY IN FLINT, MICHIGAN
Authors: Perry Tam , Robbins Jessica C 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
During the ongoing water crisis in Flint, Michigan, residents continue to express their voices in community meetings. In this study of older adults, the research team conducted participant observation of such meetings in addition to interview older adults. This presentation highlights themes of trauma and resilience as found in the collective; we illustrate the knowledge gained by researchers about the challenging environmental contexts in which study participants are navigating and how narratives that are both personal and collective co-emerge. We examine how these narratives illustrate concerns of health and wellbeing from a life course perspective and index relationships of residents to their spaces. We conclude by offering lessons learned on investigating community meetings as a way of ensuring research is “community based.”
CUSTOMIZING STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT TO SUPPORT AGING IN PLACE
Authors: Perweiler Elyse , DeGennaro Jennifer , Pomerantz Sherry , Bodenheimer Lisa , Mock Marilyn , Avallone Margaret 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Geriatrics infusion and transformation of community-based settings to support “aging in place” is complex. It requires a customized approach that engages multiple stakeholders who are invested in systems redesign and process change. Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine’s NJ Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program, in partnership with an affordable housing facility operated by Fair Share Housing/Northgate II, and Rutgers University School of Nursing (RSoN), implemented a Resident Health Risk Assessment (RHRA) tool as part of an interprofessional community-based training experience for health professions students. The goal was to identify health risks that impact a resident’s ability to age in place and implement a person-centered intervention plan. Multi-level stakeholder engagement and ongoing rapid cycle quality improvement catalyzed changes in structure and process for all partners. Results included refinement of an interprofessional clinical rotation, introduction of competency attainment into the orientation process, and resource reallocation to support data collection.
INSTAPALS: FACILITATING INTERGENERATIONAL CONTACT THROUGH TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Lytle Ashley , Nowacek Nancy 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Using the traditional framework of Pen Pals, Instapals was a project that facilitated 1-to-1 intergenerational relationships through daily exchanges on Instagram for 30 days. Although communication channels have exploded in the past 10 years in large part to social platforms and digital technologies, the diversity of daily social interactions has decreased. More and more, society has become siloed by age, interest, and belief. Building off intergroup contact theory, Instapals was designed to encourage positive intergenerational contact between younger (undergraduate students) and older adults (individuals 65+) and challenge ageist beliefs. Intergenerational social exchanges occurred both on Instagram and during three in-person meetings. Among undergraduate students, attitudes and stereotypes toward older adults and aging were assessed at three timepoints (before meeting their older adult partner, during a mid-point evaluation, and at the end of the project). Quantitative analyses demonstrate a decrease in aging anxiety, a decrease in psychological concerns about the aging process, and a greater endorsement of positive perceptions toward one’s older adult partner. Qualitative analyses of written responses from students (collected before meeting their older adult partner and at the end of the project) revealed that the Instapals project helped students challenge ageist attitudes and stereotypes and was perceived to be a positive experience overall. Implications suggest that positive intergenerational contact can be facilitated and enhanced through the use of technology. Future research should explore whether attitudes, stereotypes, and self-perceptions of aging changed among older adults as well as other technological mechanisms for facilitating intergenerational contact.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: AGE DIFFERENCES IN RESPONSE TO ACCEPTANCE AND COMMITMENT THERAPY FOR CHRONIC PAIN
Authors: Wetherell Julie L , Herbert Matthew , Afari Niloofar 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
A recent randomized comparison of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) vs. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for chronic pain found a clear age interaction effect, such that older adults benefitted more from ACT. In a subsequent study comparing ACT delivered in person to ACT delivered via telehealth to a sample of veterans (N=128, mean age 51.9, SD 13.3, range 25-89), we found no significant age by modality interactions, suggesting that older veterans responded as well as younger people did to telehealth delivery. Consistent with our previous findings, we found a trend for older adults to experience greater reduction in pain interference (p = .051) and significantly greater reduction in pain severity (p = .001) than younger adults following ACT. In younger veterans, change in pain acceptance from baseline to posttreatment was related to change in pain interference from baseline to 6-month follow-up (r = -.38), but change in pain interference from baseline to posttreatment was not related to change in pain acceptance from baseline to follow-up (r = .14), suggesting that, consistent with the ACT model, increased pain acceptance at posttreatment was related to reduced pain interference at follow-up. By contrast, in older veterans, both correlations were significant and of comparable magnitude (rs = -.43 and -.46, respectively), providing no support for the idea that change in pain acceptance drove change in pain interference. Overall, our findings suggest that ACT may work better in older adults with chronic pain than in younger adults, but via a different mechanism.
CELLULAR SENESCENCE AS A THERAPEUTIC TARGET FOR GEROSCIENCE-GUIDED CLINICAL TRIALS
Authors: Justice Jamie N , Nambiar Anoop M , Tchkonia Tamar , LeBrasseur Nathan K , Musi Nicolas , Kritchevsky Stephen B , Kirkland James L 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The geroscience hypothesis holds that targeting fundamental mechanisms of aging has the potential to prevent or reduce severity of multiple age-related diseases. Cellular senescence is a key mechanism that may be driving disease in human aging, including Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a progressive, ultimately fatal, senescence-associated disease. Importantly, cellular senescence may be targeted therapeutically. Senolytic agents are drugs that selectively induce senescent cell apoptosis by transiently disabling anti-apoptotic pathways. Selective ablation of senescent cells using the senolytic drug combination dasatinib plus quercetin (DQ) alleviates IPF-related dysfunction in bleomycin-administered IPF mouse model. We conducted the first-in-human trial of senolytics in IPF patients, and our data indicate that short-term, intermittent administration of DQ may alleviate physical dysfunction that accompanies IPF in human aging, including clinically-meaningfully improvements in mobility (p&lt;0.05). This geroscience-guided clinical feasibility study supports evaluation of senolytics in larger randomized, controlled trials of cellular senescence-associated age-related diseases.
AGING STEREOTYPES MODERATE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COSTS AND DISCOUNTING
Authors: Growney Claire , O’Brien Erica L , DeLaRosa Jesse , Hess Thomas M 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Aging is associated with normative declines in cognitive resources that increase the costs associated with mobilizing resources in cognitively demanding activities. Selective Engagement Theory (Hess, 2014) hypothesizes that changes in costs influence the motivation to engage in such activities in everyday life. We used an economic discounting task to examine the relationship between both objective estimates (systolic blood pressure responses) and subjective estimates (NASA Task Load Index) of cognitive costs in 78 older adults’ (ages 64-85) decisions to engage in more or less demanding activities. Perceptions of costs were meaningfully tied to actual costs (SBP), but further influenced by personal or primed attitudes about aging. Interestingly, decisions to engage in demanding activities—as reflected in discounting decisions—were less influenced by effort expenditure in the activity than by perceptions of difficulty. These results underscore the role that negative stereotypes play in undermining motivation to engage in potentially beneficial activities.
THE ROLE OF AGE AND EMOTION REGULATION IN CHOICE OF EMOTIONAL ACTIVITY IN EVERYDAY LIFE
Authors: Lind Majse , Isaacowitz Derek 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Situation selection is a form of activity selection focused on the affective tone of potential choices. We investigated this type of emotional activity selection in everyday life during a longitudinal multi-burst study of middle-aged and older adults. In each burst, participants were asked to complete six phone-based assessments per day across five consecutive days, including a situation selection question about what type of emotional situation they would want to engage in at the time. They also reported on various emotion regulation strategies. Both age groups favored positive activities, but older adults preferred positive-deactivated activities whereas middle-aged adults favored positive-activated activities. Both middle-aged and older adults reported more attention towards positive relative to negative thoughts. Greater attention to positive thoughts was associated with the tendency to select more positive activities across age groups. Both age and emotion regulation strategy use may therefore contribute to choice of emotional activities in everyday life.
IS THE PATH EASIER ON THE BRIGHTER SIDE? OPTIMISM AND DAILY STRESS PROCESSES ACROSS 16 YEARS
Authors: Lee Lewina O , Spiro Avron , Mroczek Daniel K , Kubzansky Laura D 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Accumulating evidence supports optimism as a health asset, yet little is known about underlying pathways. This study evaluates the long-term influence of optimism on exposure and affective reactivity to daily stressors. The sample comprised 233 community-dwelling men who completed a validated measure of optimism in 1986 (age: M=59, SD=6), and participated in up to three 8-day daily diary studies between 2002-10. Daily stressor occurrence, end-of-day positive affect (PA) and negative affect (NA) were assessed nightly in the diary studies. Results from multilevel structural equation modeling showed that optimism was unrelated to affective stress reactivity. However, higher optimism preceded lower overall NA and higher overall PA. Lower daily stressor exposure mediated the association from optimism to lower NA (indirect effect: B=-0.26, 95% Bayesian CI: -0.48, -0.09), but it did not account for the optimism-PA association. Our findings add to knowledge on pathways by which optimism promotes affective well-being in old age.
THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN ACTOR-PARTNER OPTIMISM AND COGNITIVE ABILITY AMONG OLDER COUPLES
Authors: Chopik William J , Oh Jeewon , Kim Eric S 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Optimism has been found to be associated with physical health and interpersonal well-being. Spouses also play an important role on people’s health especially in late life. Yet, little is known about how a spouse’s optimism might be associated with an individual’s cognitive health. This study examined how actor and partner optimism in couples are associated with cognitive ability. Results showed positive associations between actor optimism and cognitive ability (.03 ≤ rs ≤ .17), and partner optimism and cognitive ability (.03 ≤ rs ≤.04), which mostly persisted over time. Further, partner optimism moderated actor optimism. Although highly optimistic people had higher cognitive ability regardless of partner’s optimism (r = .02, p = .22), people particularly benefitted from being married to an optimist (r = .05, p &lt; .001). These results suggest that we need to consider the context of spousal relationships when understanding optimism and cognitive health in older-adulthood.