bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Age Differences in Elder Abuse Harm and Effective Services Offered by Adult Protective Services
Authors: Liu Pi-Ju , Hass Zachary , Conrad Karen , Stratton Sara , Conrad Kendon 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
In this study, abuse, exploitation, and neglect (ANE) harm was measured by type of abuse using standardized items from the Identification, Services, and Outcomes (ISO) Matrix before Adult Protective Services (APS) interventions (pretest) and after APS interventions (posttest). Change scores from 1,472 older adults (average age 78-year-old; 57% female) and 591 younger adults (average age 53-year-old; 46% female) served by APS during the six months showed reduction of harm using posttest minus pretest. Nonetheless, older adult’s financial abuse harm (pretest=2.2, posttest=1.5) was higher than younger adults’ (pretest=1.5, posttest=1.2), while young adults scored higher in harm on all other types of abuse. Effective interventions differ by age group and by type of abuse, and will be discussed in detail. Results demonstrate the importance to consider vulnerable adult’s age and the etiology of abuse before implementing the services needed to effectively address ANE harm.
Understanding Practice Through Research
Authors: Stratton Sara , Liu Pi-Ju (Marian) , Conrad Kendon , Hass Zachary 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Substantiation of abuse, neglect, and exploitation (ANE) data collected during the Identification, Services, and Outcomes (ISO) Matrix pilot included some outlier scores warranting further investigation. To examine outliers and other unexpected findings in greater detail, we completed case reviews and caseworker interviews to explore why outlier cases did not follow the expected patterns of substantiation decisions. Cases were selected on a random basis from those with self-neglect outlier scores. Several factors were found to have contributed to the extreme scores in all three categories of confirmed, inconclusive, and unfounded abuse. In this study, no valid ISO Matrix scores were found that contradicted the substantiation decision. Instead, analysis revealed that most of the errors occurred: 1) in application of the intended procedures showing need for further training, and 2) some needed changes to the procedures of the ISO Matrix based on feedback from caseworkers.
The Self as Subject and Object: Reflections on Being a Double Agent of Aging
Authors: Clark Phillip 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Being both a gerontologist and an older adult places one in a double narrative: one is the scientific story and academic life of research and education, the other is the personal experience of living through this phase of life. These two narratives become intertwined in a way that both enriches and poses challenges. This paper explores what being a “double agent of aging” means as an individual and a scholar, and offers some insights for the field of gerontology. These implications include: (1) the growing importance of values and life wisdom, (2) health behavior hypocrisy, and (3) the experience of ageing and marginalization. The implications for the field of gerontology include: (1) valuing the voices of older adults in our research and teaching, (2) being more active in confronting ageism in our own institutions, and (3) acknowledging the limitations of studying aging as a younger adult.
An International Perspective: The Role of Transportation in Supporting Community Mobility Needs of Older Adults
Authors: Dickerson Anne , Vrkljan Brenda 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
This international symposium brings together leading scholars in occupational therapy research whose shared aim is to support community mobility in older adulthood. in this session, five groups of researchers will share their collective and individual research outcomes supporting continued community mobility of older adults, especially when driving is no longer an option. The first presentation will be their collective international, cross sectional study of 247 older adults from seven countries. This study compared community destinations, methods of transportation and factors that influence community mobility. Each presentation that follows will highlight unique studies with the overarching goal of improving mobility options for older adults to “age in place of choice.” Our discussant will summarize the potential for expanding this research by engaging the audience through interactive questions, as to where local and global opportunities for innovations that support community mobility will be raised.
An International Comparison of the Community Mobility Patterns of Older Adults
Authors: Swanepoel Lizette , Gelinas Isabelle , Mazer Barbara 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Community mobility in older adults is important for maintaining health, quality of life and social participation. Globally, older adults who are non-drivers, access their community through various modes of transport to maintain community mobility. This international cross-sectional cohort study (n=246) explored the mobility patterns of older adults and examined their access to out-of-home activities and health related quality of life in seven countries. Quality of life was determined using EQ-5D-5L and was generally high among all participants. Findings from the study indicate that a complex myriad of factors influence safe transport mobility in older adults. Results suggested that inclement weather and place of residence negatively impacted access to out-of-home activities, yet these factors but did not increase use of public transport. Given the complexity of transportation use and mobility patterns in older adults, an individualised approach may be necessary to keep older adults connected to their out-of-home activities.
Comparison of USA and Australian Mobility Device Users’ and Ambulant Bus Users’ Views of Restraints on Public Buses
Authors: Unsworth Carolyn 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Many older people use powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters to access the community on buses but have increased injury risk if the mobility device tips or slides. Wheelchair tie-down and occupant restraint systems (WTORS) are mandated on USA transit buses, and their introduction investigated in Australia. This study examined the views of mobility device and ambulant bus users in the USA and Australia on WTORS. A Qualtrics survey with 448 respondents showed strong support for WTORS use and found the most important factors underpinning use were Safety, Comfort, and Transit time. US research indicates dwell time while fitting WTORS is 4 minutes, and participants reported 5.65(SD3.06) minutes is acceptable. There was no difference in USA and Australian participants who have slid or tipped in their device, despite being restrained in the USA: X2(1,n=220)=.053,p=.53,phi-.016). This research suggests all bus users are supportive of WTORs, but their effectiveness requires investigation.
Evaluating the Impact of State Policy Interventions for LGBT Aging: Comparative Case Study of New York and California
Authors: Oswald Austin , Giunta Nancy , Johnston Tim , Wayland Sherrill 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The majority of aging network service providers are unprepared to deliver targeted services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) older adults. In 2017, California legislature mandated ongoing LGBT sensitivity training for congregate living providers. Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE) developed a specialized training, Creating Inclusive Communities, for congregate living staff to learn the unique needs of LGBT elders. This secondary data analysis compared pre-test knowledge and attitudes of training participants in two states, one mandating LGBT aging sensitivity training (California, N=328) and one without the mandate (New York, N=622). Preliminary results show that prior to receiving training, California participants demonstrate significantly less knowledge of LGBT aging issues compared to New York participants; t(948)=-3.808, p&lt;.001. Attitudinal differences were also demonstrated. These results suggest that laws mandating LGBT sensitivity training may help reach providers with greater training needs. Policy and practice implications will be discussed. Part of a symposium sponsored by Rainbow Research Group Interest Group.
Spiritual and Religious Journeys Over the Lifecourse: Challenging Stereotypes
Authors: Anderson Keith , Garthwait Cynthia , Vielle Laurel 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Spiritual and religious beliefs often evolve across the lifecourse and tend to be influenced by experience, time, and maturity. Despite this evolution, stereotypes persist of older adults as being inflexible in their views and resistant to new or alternative beliefs. To explore this notion, researchers surveyed a convenience sample of 152 older adults (n = 152) who identified as spiritual/religious. Over three-quarters (77.0%) reported that their relationship with God or a higher power had grown closer over time. Most reported becoming “more liberal” (32.2%), “more conservative” (23.0%), or “more moderate” (17.8%) in religious perspective over time. Almost three-quarters of participants (73.7%) reported that they were “more accepting” of other religions”, yet also “more certain” of their own beliefs (74.3%) in later life. These and other results challenge the stereotype of older adults as “set in their ways”, even in terms of spiritual and religious beliefs.
Reframing Aging in Contemporary Politics: Building Momentum
Authors: D'Antonio Patricia 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Changing American culture is challenging and changing attitudes and behaviors around the universal experience of aging especially so. Unless the field of advocates who care about aging issues cultivates a more visible, more informed conversation on older people, it will remain difficult to advance the systemic changes needed to adjust to a society with increased and increasing longevity. Advocates will need to be vigilant to avoid cueing negative attitudes towards aging and aging policies. The Reframing Aging Initiative is a long-term, social change endeavor designed to improve the public’s understanding of what aging means and the many contributions older people bring to society. Using evidence-based research, the initiative seeks to teach advocates how to tell an effective story about aging that will promote positive perceptions of aging and reduce ageism. The time to change the conversation is now.
Developing Age-Friendly Programs in Greater Manchester, UK: Understanding the Role of Social Infrastructure
Authors: Yarker Sophie , Phillipson Chris 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
This paper considers the critical role of social infrastructure in building age-friendly communities. Drawing on two neighbourhood projects, the paper explores the benefits which different types of social connections bring for older people and the types of spaces in which these connections are produced. It provides support for the importance of ‘natural neighbourhood networks’(Gardner, 2011) by demonstrating how everyday encounters help promote informal networks of support. Following Klinenberg’s (2018) analysis of the importance of social infrastructure, the paper argues that the decline of local high streets, closure of libraries, and cuts to the maintenance of green spaces, reduce opportunities for face-to-face social interactions. The paper presents findings from two studies illustrating the importance of social infrastructure in supporting new forms of community action amongst older people. The paper concludes that that the value of social interactions that occur in everyday mundane spaces needs greater emphasis in public policy.
Exploring the Influence of Social Infrastructure on Experiences of Aging in Place in Dublin, Ireland
Authors: Grove Hannah 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
This paper presents results from a PhD project that has carried out interviews, mapping exercises and ‘go-along’ interviews with thirty-four people aged sixty-six and over, in an inner city and suburban study area within Dublin, Ireland. A key objective of this research was to identify places, activities and interactions of most importance to older people. Through qualitative and spatial data collection and analysis techniques, different types of ‘social infrastructure’ that individuals value and engage with, as part of their daily lives, are identified and presented using annotated maps. The interactions and types of activities that occur in these places, and why they are important, are also discussed. Results demonstrate the benefits of high quality social infrastructure (and the challenges associated with a lack of social infrastructure) through participant’s own experiences, and highlight the vital role this plays in supporting older people to age well in place.
Experiences of Racial Discrimination Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults of Color and Nursing Home Staff of Color
Authors: Nkimbeng Manka , LaFave Sarah , Szanton Sarah 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
This symposium will present results of three qualitative studies that explored experiences of racial discrimination among older adults and their professional caregivers. Our first study reports on interviews conducted with older community-dwelling African American adults about their perceptions of and experiences with structural racial discrimination. Participants reported exposure that has accumulated over the life course and across contexts, including through limited access to educational and employment opportunities and disproportionate exposure to neighborhood violence and unhealthy products. Our second study reports findings from interviews conducted with older community-dwelling African immigrants about their experiences with acculturation and racial discrimination. Older African immigrants reported several types of discrimination, had developed unique strategies to cope with perceived discrimination and described how it impacted domains of health and wellbeing. Our third study reports on experiences with discrimination among U.S-born and immigrant staff of color caring for residents in high minority proportion nursing homes. Findings indicate that although staff of color are valued for the diversity they contribute to the workforce, they are also exposed to discriminatory events. In addition, tensions exist between U.S. and non-U.S born staff of color. In this symposium, we will discuss differences in experiences between U.S.-born and immigrant participants, levels of discrimination experienced (interpersonal, institutional, structural), and discrimination across contexts. We will also discuss intersectionality of race, ethnicity, immigrant status, language, gender, age, and class in relation to experiences of discrimination. We will reflect on the clinical and policy implications of our findings.
Mental Health Among Employed Family Caregivers: A Gender-Based Analysis on the Role of Workplace Support
Authors: Li Lun , Lee Yeonjung , Lai Daniel W L 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Compared to men, women undertake more family caregiving responsibilities, and thus take more toll in health and wellbeing when they are employed. The current study examined the gender difference in mental health among employed family caregivers, focusing on the role of workplace support in balancing work and caregiving roles. Guided by the social role theory and the moderated-mediation model of employment adjustment and mental health, we analyzed a nationally representative data from the 2012 Canada General Social Survey - Caregiving and Care Receiving with a sample of 2,426 participants selected. Moderated-mediation analysis based on the SPSS macro PROCESS 3.3 was used. Women employed family caregivers are more likely to undertake higher intensive caregiving, make more employment adjustment, and further report worse mental health status than their men counterparts. Gender difference was apparent in regards to the workplace support. For women, the moderating effect of workplace support is significant only when there are at least 5 different types of workplace support available at their workplaces, while for men, the moderating effect is significant when there are at least 2-3 different types of workplace support available. Women employed family caregivers experience worse mental health when employment adjustment is needed for their care responsibility. Findings have implications for providing workplace support for family caregivers given that women benefit less from workplace support compared to men. Further study is needed to explore the impact of various types of workplace support for women employed family caregivers, and to provide tailored support to them.
Repaying Student Loan Debt: Implications for Older Women’s Financial Well-Being and Retirement Planning
Authors: Miller Julie , Brady Samantha , Balmuth Alexa , D’Ambrosio Lisa , Coughlin Joseph 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Previous research demonstrates that student loan debt disproportionately affects women and is being repaid increasingly by older adults. Utilizing data collected through a mixed methods study at the MIT AgeLab (involving focus groups and a large national survey), we examine the impacts of repaying student loans on older women’s financial wellbeing. Findings focus on multiple areas, including the timing in which older women repaying student loans were able to pay down other debts, change jobs, get married, and pursue further education. Analysis also revealed that student loans impacted the amount that 63% of older women in the study were able to contribute to their retirement savings. Findings from this study suggest that repaying student loan debt for oneself and/or a family member can compromise older women’s near-term and longer-term financial being. Policy reforms are needed to support older women repaying student loans.
Quantitative Study of Individual Creative Caregiving Sessions on Well-Being of Caregivers and Care Recipients
Authors: Wheaton Felicia , Cole Safiyyah , Kappari Sai Raj , Johnson Matilda 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
There were approximately 34.2 million unpaid caregivers of adults age 50+ in the United States in the last 12 months (NAC & AARP, 2015). These individuals provide important care for older adults with physical, psychological and cognitive problems. There is a growing awareness that caregivers are also at risk for physical and mental health problems and therefore also require support to reduce stress and maintain optimal health. Research suggests that engaging in creative and artistic activities may reduce stress and improve physical and mental health among caregivers. Researchers from Bethune-Cookman University partnered with the Atlantic Center for the Arts in New Smyrna Beach, FL to evaluate their Creative Caregiving program. Approximately 10 informal caregivers and their care partners met for 2 hours each week over the course of 6 weeks from February 3-March 9, 2020. Participants learned how to connect mind, body and spirit by using the arts as a tool of self-care, social interaction, and learning. At each session, participants were asked to rate their overall wellbeing on a scale from 1-10. Pre- and post-session data was analyzed using paired samples t-tests. Results indicate that there was significant improvement in wellbeing and participants reported improvements in their stress, mood and relationship with their caregiver or care partner. These findings were observed for both caregivers and care partners, suggesting that arts programs can benefit both. Such programs are a fun and cost-effective way to improve wellbeing, at least in the short-term.
Intersections of Gender and Cognition in Older Adults
Authors: Stites Shana , Flatt Jason , Derby Carol 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is committed to supporting rigorous science that advances what is understood about the influences of sex and gender in health and disease in order to inform the development of prevention strategies and treatment interventions. In research on aging and Alzheimer’s disease, sex/gender disparities in key outcomes are common. But, much of this research hinges on asking a single question: Is the patient or research participant male or female, man or woman? This practice offers few options for disambiguating sociocultural effects associated with gender from those related to biologic sex. It also assumes that self-reports are a suitable proxy for social phenotypes and that a dichotomous variable adequately captures the wide-range of sociocultural effects attributable to gender. The premise of this symposium is to evaluate how gender interacts with cognitive outcomes in order to advance measurement. This symposium will review evidence from five distinct lines of research on associations between gender and cognition for individuals and for individual’s interactions with their family members: (1) effects of normative shifts in American education on cognition in older adults; (2) hospitalization as a risk factor for cognitive decline in racially diverse American men and women; (3) caregivers who identify as sexual and gender minorities (SGM or LGBTQ+) and care for persons with dementia; (4) correlates of cognitive function in SGM older adults; and (5) differences in adults’ cognition based on childhood exposure to women’s social empowerment in 30+ Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries.
Gender Differences in 30-Day Re-Hospitalization Among Medicare Beneficiaries With Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Authors: Gilmore-Bykovskyi Andrea 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Hospitalization is associated with accelerated cognitive decline for persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD), which disproportionately impacts women. Persons with ADRD are also at higher risk for 30-day rehospitalization, which may compound the impact of hospitalization-related exposures that precipitate decline. Evidence surrounding the intersections between gender and rehospitalization risk among diverse, representative populations with ADRD are lacking. This retrospective cohort study used a 100% national sample of Medicare beneficiaries with a diagnosis of ADRD and qualifying index hospitalization in 2014 (n= 1,033,144 unique beneficiaries and 1,672,238 unique stays). The primary outcome was rate of 30-day rehospitalization by gender and race. Within each racial group, men have higher rehospitalization rates than women: 2.6% higher among white men, 1.7% among African American men, and 2.6% higher among other racial/ethnic minorities. Findings highlight the importance of elucidating mechanisms underlying gender differences in hospital utilization and subsequent impact on cognitive decline.
University-Community Partnerships to Develop a Mutually Beneficial Tool to Measure Age-Friendly Collaboration
Authors: Pestine-Stevens Althea , Greenfield Emily 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Age-friendly community initiatives (AFCIs) are frequently described as community collaborations; the AARP program model encourages diverse stakeholder engagement to achieve its aims of improving the social and built environments for long lives. However, little is known empirically about how AFCIs function as collaborations and how these relationships and activities lead to community changes. This paper presents how we developed a social network analysis tool to measure collaboration in AFCIs, which emerged from multi-year, university-community partnerships on AFCIs in western New York and northern New Jersey. Iterative processes, including inductive analysis of qualitative interviews and facilitated meetings with local AFCI work-groups, provided opportunities to create survey items on collaboration with meaning specific to AFCIs. We describe this tool’s application as part of a survey of AFCI stakeholders, demonstrating how findings contribute both to advancing knowledge on AFCIs in general and directly informing the efforts of AFCI actors on the ground.