bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Future Confidence and Self-Reported Health Among the Bereaved Elderly in China
Authors: Pan Haimin , Liu Qian 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Time perspective serves as an important determinant for the elderly’s health-related outcomes, including those in bereavement. Confidence in the future (CF) seems a reflecting viewpoint a in this line, however, it is hardly investigated as a predictor for health among the elderly. This study centered on the casual relationship between CF and self-reported health (SRH) among the bereaved older Chinese adults. Data from a sample of 376 elders in bereavement were finally used for analysis. The sample was extracted from a national representative data, namely, China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), and contained 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2018 waves of information. A across-lagged model with four time points was used to explore the longitudinal relationship between CF and SRH among the bereaved elderly in China. This model achieved acceptable indices of goodness of fit, and the results revealed that SRH positively predicted future confidence in general among the senior participants, while CF failed to predict SRH at any point of time. The cross-sectional associations between CF and SRH were generally positively significant. The results implied the casual effect of SRH on CF, which was different from the cross-sectional relationship between CF and SRH. It seemed that enhancing the oral health of the bereaved elderly could be beneficial for increase in their CF. Tailored services are recommended for improving the perception of the bereaved elderly on their general health, and thus strengthening their positive perspectives for future.
The Influence of Race and Gender on Staff-Resident Interactions in Nursing Homes
Authors: McPherson Rachel , Resnick Barbara , Galik Elizabeth 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Communication and interactions are an integral part of care in long-term care settings. Resident variables, such as race and gender, shape communication and interaction between staff and residents. The Quality of Interactions Schedule (QuIS) was developed to measure the quality of verbal and nonverbal interactions among nursing staff and older adults initially for those in acute care and later used as well in a variety of long term care settings. A quantified measurement of the quality of interactions between residents and staff was created to quantify the QuIS. The purpose of this study was to describe the gender and racial differences in scored quality of interactions. Data for the present study was based on baseline data from the Evidence Integration Triangle for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (EIT-4-BPSD) implementation study. A total of 535 residents from 55 settings were included in the analyses. An analysis of covariance was conducted to determine a difference in QuIS scores between males and females while controlling for age. The second model tested for differences in QuIS scores between blacks and whites while controlling for age and gender. There was not a statistically significant difference in QuIS scores between male and female residents. There was a significant difference in QuIS scores between those who were black versus white, such that those who were black received more positive interactions from staff than those who were white. Future work should focus on a deeper examination of resident factors and staff factors that may influence these interactions.
Influence of Physical Activity Energy Expenditure on Functional Fitness Among Older Adults
Authors: Paulson Sally , Gray Michelle 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Remaining physically active as one ages plays a critical role in maintaining health and improving functional capacity. Further, older adults can see additional health-related benefits by increasing intensity, duration, frequency, and/or levels of physical activity. However, there is limited research examining physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE) and measures of functional fitness. Therefore, the purpose was to examine differences between older adults with varying levels of PAEE on selected measures of functional fitness. A sample of 25 adults (age: 74.0±7.1 years) were recruited from an urban area and divided into two groups. PAEE was calculated using the total caloric expenditure per week for all exercise-related activities from a self-reported PA questionnaire. Group one expended less than 3,000 calories per week and group two spent more than 3,000 calories per week performing PA. The selected measures of functional fitness were a 4-m gait speed (GS), 30-s chair stand test (CS-30), 2-min step test (ST), and the 8-foot up and go test (GUG). Data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups on GS (F1, 24 = 9.29, p &lt; .01) and CS-30 (F1, 24 = 4.37, p = .05). The results yielded a trend for the GUG (p =.06). However, there was not a difference between the groups on the ST (p = .11). These results suggest older adults expending more than 3,000 calories per week performing PA walk faster and have greater lower-body strength.
Mindfulness Meditation and Tai Chi Chuan on Sleep Disturbance in Chinese Older People: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chan Sunny , Chan Wai Chi , Ng Siu Man , Yu Chong Ho Alex 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Sleep disturbances are common during the aging process and can result in a reduced quality of life. Many older people who experience sleep disturbances would consider turning to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) due to the limitations of traditional pharmaceutical or psychological and behavioural treatments. Mindfulness Meditation (MM) and Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) are two common forms of mind-body based CAM. The former focuses more on mind-based practices whereas the latter emphasizes predominantly on body or movement-based practices. An etiological model of sleep disturbance (Shallcross et al., 2019) can lay the groundwork for a better understanding of the mechanisms of MM and TCC in relation to sleep disturbances. This study aims at comparing the effects of MM and TCC with Sleep Hygiene Education (SHE) control group. A three-armed randomized controlled pilot trial was conducted involving 45 community-dwelling older adults aged 65 to 82 with symptoms of sleep disturbance. Moderate effect sizes (Cohen’s d = 0.7 and 0.56) were found for the primary outcome of insomnia severity at post-intervention as comparing MM and TCC groups with SHE control group, respectively. More specific, participants in the MM group showed more amelioration on mental health status, introspective awareness, and objective measure of EEG-based brain arousal level; whereas participants in the TCC group showed better improvement on physical health status and subjective measure of hyperarousal. Findings demonstrate the unique therapeutic effects of MM and TCC on improving sleep problem in older people. The application in a Chinese context will be discussed.
Factors Related to the Dignity of Older People in Tehran in 2020
Authors: Kakhki Ali Darvishpoor , Moradoghli Fereshteh , Esmaeili Roghayeh , Kakhki Ali 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The elderly are the fastest growing segment of the population globally. This is also the case in developing countries such as Iran. The fear of aging and the refusal to accept older adults into the mainstream of society affects the dignity of older people. This study was conducted to describe factors and dignity of older people in Tehran, Iran. This descriptive, correlational study was conducted on a sample of 215 older people above age 60 in 10 public parks in five regions of Tehran in 2020. A socio-demographic questionnaire and patient dignity inventory were used for data collection. Content validity and Cronbach’s alpha were used for evaluating the validity and reliability of questionnaires. Data were analyzed with SPSS. 60% of subjects were male and 40% female with a mean age of 68(± 5.05) year. The mean scores for dignity domains ranged from 67.30 (±17.56) for symptom distress, to 93.01(± 10.90) for dependency on a 100-point scale. The scores of dignity domains were significantly associated with job status, housing status, income source, health insurance, chronic diseases, annual physician referral rates, and hospitalization in last year. The best predictors of dignity were health insurance and annual physician referral rates. The findings of this study showed that the dignity of older people is related to a number of factors. Monitoring modifiable factors such as health insurance and annual physician referral rates and non-modifiable factors such as chronic diseases will help us to preserve or improve the dignity of older people.
Measuring Hand Function in Older Adults: The Need for Better Assessment Tools
Authors: Logue Rachel , Goldenkoff Elana , Vesia Michael , Brown Susan 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Aging is associated with a decline in hand muscle strength, dexterity, and tactile perception, leading to difficulties in activities of daily living and reduced independence (Millan-Calenti et al., 2010). However, current assessments do not adequately capture sensorimotor skills that underlie everyday activities such as dressing and food preparation. This study examined the ability of two novel assessment devices to detect age-related changes in hand force control and tactile pattern discrimination. Sensorimotor function was assessed in 13 healthy older adults (mean age 72.2 +/- 5.5y) and 13 young adults (mean age 20 +/- 1.4y). Maximum grip force (MVC), tactile sensation, and hand dexterity were measured using standard clinical techniques. Novel assessments consisted of submaximal (5-20% MVC) grip force tracking and computer-controlled tactile pattern recognition. Monofilament testing of tactile sensation was normal in the older group. In contrast, both the accuracy and speed associated with identifying tactile patterns was significantly worse in older (p&lt;0.001) compared to young adults for both hands. While maximum grip force was similar in both groups, the ability to smoothly produce (p&lt;0.05) and maintain (p&lt;0.02) low grip force levels was compromised in older adults. Manual dexterity (Grooved Pegboard test) was significantly reduced in the older group (p&lt;0.001) regardless of hand. These results indicate that the ability to extract meaningful information from tactile feedback and control low levels of force - aspects of fine hand control associated with activities of daily living – are impaired in older adults and underscore the need for more sensitive measures of hand function.
Pain and Its Management: Strategies and Outcomes in Older Adults With or at Risk for Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Johnson Alisa , Booker Staja , Cardoso Josue , Goodin Burel , Sibille Kimberly , Fillingim Roger 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a leading cause of mobility disability that is characterized by chronic pain among older adults. Non-Hispanic Blacks (NHBs) suffer disproportionately from non-Hispanic Whites (NHWs), reporting higher pain intensity and disability. It is unclear how these differences in symptomatology translate into different patterns of utilization for self-management (SM) of pain, and if such patterns are associated with underlying biological pain mechanisms. This multisite observational study examined (1) use of self-management strategies among older NHB and NHW adults with/at risk for KOA and (2) associations among self-management strategies, clinical and experimental pain. After approval from institutional IRBs, NHB and NHW older adults (N= 202) with knee pain completed the McGill Pain Questionnaire-Short Form, questions on treatment strategies (e.g., massage, ice, heat, medications), and quantitative sensory testing. Covariates included study site and education. On average, participants reported using 2 ± 1.65 SM strategies, with 79% endorsing at least one SM strategy. Analysis of covariance revealed that clinical pain differed by race/ethnicity and use of SM and/or medical treatments (p’s &lt; 0.01). SM use did not differ by race/ethnicity, p = 0.15, but did differ significantly by gender, p &lt; 0.05. Multiple linear regression demonstrated significant positive associations between SM and heat pain sensitivity for both NHBs and NHWs, (p &lt; 0.05). SM is an important component of OA management for NHBs and NHWs. Our study is one of the first to show that SM use is significantly associated with pain mechanisms. Improved understanding will facilitate better mechanism-targeted pain management.
The Pain Situation of Older Home-Care Recipients and Influencing Factors
Authors: Dräger Dagmar , Kreutz Reinhold , Kuhlmey Adelheid , Budnick Andrea , Draeger Dagmar 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Chronic pain is a common symptom among older people. The international prevalence rate reaches 50% for older home-care recipients (aged ≥60). The most common causes of pain among older people are degenerative arthropathy and musculoskeletal diseases. Care recipients (81% aged ≥65) constitute a specific sub-group among pain patients, due to the restrictions they experience. In Germany, the prevalence rate in this group is 70%. Currently, no comprehensive information on the pain situation of older home-care recipients exists in Germany. The findings presented are based on a cross-sectional study of older (aged ≥65) home-care recipients (SGB XI) in Berlin, with chronic pain (n=225), capable of self-report (MMST≥18). Structured interviews comprised the primary data source. The pain situation was determined using the German Brief Pain Inventory (BPI-NH). Multiple regression analysis was applied to test how the most severe pain (dependent variable) was influenced by socio-demographic and medical parameters, mental and physical restrictions and pain medication. Analyses of the pain situation show a value of M=4.81 (SD±1.88) on the BPI intensity index, and a BPI pain interference index of M=5.47 (SD±2.15). The most intense pain averaged 6.96 (SD±2.15). On average, respondents reported 16.20 (SD±13.25) pain locations (range: 0-65). The number of pain locations, alongside other factors, had a significant influence, R²=0.038 (corrected R²=0.034), F (1.219) = 8.760, p&lt;0.01), on pain intensity. The findings show severe pain intensity among older home-care recipients not reported in previous findings (e.g. in long-term in-patient care). Action in medical care, nursing care and educational aspects is urgently needed.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Combined With Meditation for Older Adults With Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Ahn Hyochol , Park Lindsey , Miao Hongyu 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is one of the most common causes of pain in older adults. Recent evidence suggests that knee OA pain is characterized by alterations in central pain processing in the brain. Two nonpharmacological pain treatments, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and mindfulness-based meditation (MBM), have been shown to improve pain-related brain function in older adults with knee OA. Because tDCS promotes neuroplasticity, it may potentiate the effect of MBM that also stimulates adaptive changes in the brain. However, no studies have examined whether tDCS combined with MBM can reduce OA symptoms in older adults with knee OA. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the preliminary efficacy of tDCS combined with MBM in older adults with knee OA. Thirty participants with knee OA were randomly assigned to receive 10 daily sessions of home-based 2 mA tDCS combined with active MBM for 20 minutes (n=15) or sham tDCS combined with sham MBM (n=15). We measured OA-related clinical symptoms using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Participants (60% female) had a mean age of 59 years. Active tDCS combined with active MBM significantly reduced scores on the WOAMC (Cohen’s d = 0.83, P = 0.02). Participants tolerated tDCS combined with MBM well without serious adverse effects. Our findings demonstrate promising clinical efficacy of home-based tDCS combined with MBM for older adults with knee OA. Future studies with larger-scale randomized controlled trials with follow-up assessments are needed to validate our findings.
Supportive Home Environments as a Mediator Between Sensory Impairment and Disability
Authors: Steinman Bernard , Pynoos Jon , Mittlieder Casandra , Overton Julie , Ahrenholtz Treva Sprout 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Home environments are important to older adults and can help to preserve independence in every day functioning when they are supportive. Nevertheless, over time, the quality of “fit” between individuals and their homes can decrease because of age-related physical changes. A significant proportion of older Americans experience sensory impairments that impact their capacity to perform daily living activities necessary to remain independent at home. Home environments designed to support access and safety have potential to ameliorate disability associated with declines in sensory status. Data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) were analyzed to assess the role of supportive home environments in mediating the relationship between self-reported measures of vision impairment, hearing impairment, and dual vision-hearing impairment and related ADL/IADL outcomes in community-dwelling older adults. Guided by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), regression models included covariates for sociodemographics, chronic conditions, mobility functioning, and participation. Supportive home environments were operationalized using indicators of whether participants had access to homes from the outside without having to use stairs; presence of a bedroom, kitchen, and full bathroom with a shower or tub on the same floor; and whether bathroom fixtures had been modified with features such as grab bars. Results suggest a statistical relationship between sensory function and disability that is explained in part by the lack of supportive home features. Implications are that older adults with sensory impairments can benefit greatly by improving environments in areas of the home that are known to cause difficulty.
Distinct Trajectories of Recovery Within the First Year After Hip Fracture
Authors: Mutchie Heather , Orwig Denise , Gruber-Baldini Ann 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Hip fracture patients experience heterogenous pathways of recovery. Knowing about these different groups can guide rehabilitation efforts. The sample was 339 hip fracture patients age 65+ recruited to the Baltimore Hip Studies 7th cohort [2006-2011; men(n=168) women(n=171)] assessed at baseline, 2.6, and 12 months. Group based trajectory modeling assessed participants’ cognitive and functional recovery trajectories as measured by the Modified Mini-Mental State Examination(3MS;0-100), Hooper Visual Organization Task(HVOT,0-30), Trail-Making Task(TrailsA,B:0-301s), Short Physical Performance Battery(SPPB,0-12), Lower Extremity Physical Activities of Daily Living(LPADL,0-12), and physical activity (YALE, hours/week). Participants were on average 80.91(7.88) years old with 13(3.41) years of education. Two groups were identified for Trails A [Consistent high performance (85.3%), declined performance (14.6%)] and YALE [low exercise(94.9%), small decline(5.0%)]. Three groups were identified for 3MS [consistently high(76.3%), consistently borderline(17.1%), consistently low-performing(6.4%)] and SPPB [failure(19.3%), low-performing with small improvement(55.7%), moderate improvement(24.9%)]. Four groups were identified for HVOT[low scoring(14.2%), mid-range(31.9%), borderline(32.4%), well-performing(21.3%)], Trails B [consistent high-performance(40.2%), improved(18.6%), declined(12.0%), consistent failure(29.1%)], and LPADL[low-performing(27.0%), small improvement(50.0%), dramatic improvement(17.0%), high-performing(5.7%)]. The polynomial functions of the trajectory groups were primarily quadratic with some cubic functions best representing the recovery trajectories. Many of the groups have similar trajectories but at different magnitudes. For most tests performance at baseline was able to differentiate performance at 1 year. These data show that there are very few changes in high or low performing groups, but mid-range participants can experience volatility.
Regional Associations of Cortical Thickness With Gait Variability: The Tasmanian Study of Cognition and Gait
Authors: Jayakody Oshadi , Breslin Monique , Beare Richard , Srikanth Velandai , Blumen Helena , Callisaya Michele 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Gait variability is a marker of cognitive decline. However, there is limited understanding of the cortical regions associated with gait variability. We examined associations between regional cortical thickness and gait variability in a population-based sample of older people without dementia. Participants (n=350, mean age 71.9±7.1) were randomly selected from the electoral roll. Variability in step time, step length, step width and double support time (DST) were calculated as the standard deviation of each measure, obtained from the GAITRite walkway. MRI scans were processed through FreeSurfer to obtain cortical thickness of 68 regions. Bayesian regression was used to determine regional associations of mean cortical thickness and thickness ratio (regional thickness/overall mean thickness) with gait variability. Smaller overall cortical thickness was only associated with greater step width and step time variability. Smaller mean thickness in widespread regions important for sensory, cognitive and motor functions were associated with greater step width and step time variability. In contrast, smaller thickness in a few frontal and temporal regions were associated with DST variability and the right cuneus was associated with step length variability. Smaller thickness ratio in frontal and temporal regions important for motor planning, execution and sensory function and, greater thickness ratio in the anterior cingulate was associated with greater variability in all measures. Examining individual cortical regions is important in understanding the relationship between gray matter and gait variability. Cortical thickness ratio highlights that smaller regional thickness relative to global thickness may be important for the consistency of gait.