bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
ADVANCING GLOBAL HEALTHY AGING: MY JOURNEY IN GERONTOLOGICAL RESEARCH
Authors: Wu Bei 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In this presentation, Dr. Bei Wu will reflect on her over three-decade-long career as a gerontologist, exploring how her personal history, educational background, and professional experiences have informed and developed her program of research, focusing on her efforts to advance global healthy aging. Dr. Wu intends to highlight key findings from her research. She will discuss the pivotal role of secondary data analyses as a means to investigate the complex relationships between oral health, cognitive decline, and systemic health. Moreover, she will elaborate on the development of behavioral interventions aimed at improving oral health for individuals with cognitive impairment. She will also address her contributions to the establishment of NIH-funded centers aimed at mitigating health disparities and enhancing equity among older Asian Americans. Lastly, Dr. Wu will explore the policy and clinical ramifications derived from these findings, highlighting their potential to shape future approaches to gerontological care.
MITIGATING SOCIAL ISOLATION AND LONELINESS AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Yow W Quin 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Approximately 24% of older adults in the US experience social isolation, a condition linked to numerous physical and mental health issues, including stroke and cognitive decline. However, there is a lack of research in the assessment and intervention of social isolation and loneliness within older populations at the community level. This symposium seeks to address this gap by examining current research progress in assessment and intervention strategies for combating social isolation and loneliness among older adults. Paper 1 explores factors influencing healthcare providers’ comfort levels in screening for social isolation. The author found that important factors include effective communication, interaction, and minority status. Paper 2 evaluates the community-based project “Waigaya project” in suburban Japan aimed at fostering connections among older residents. The project shows effectiveness in addressing social isolation and loneliness among suburban residents. Paper 3 presents survey findings on the impact of online connections in alleviating loneliness among older adults, emphasizing the importance of fostering quality interactions within digital communities. Finally, Paper 4 explores the use of AI-driven conversation agents to encourage social engagement among older adults to combat social isolation and loneliness. They will also present findings from a preliminary study on conversation topics among older adult friends, guiding the chatbot development. The symposium aims to enhance participants’ understanding of two key areas: factors to consider and strategies for implementing community-level screening and interventions targeting social isolation and loneliness among older adults, and the feasibility of leveraging technology to address social isolation and loneliness in older adults.
NAVIGATING SOCIAL ISOLATION SCREENING: EXPLORING HEALTH CARE PROVIDER COMFORT FACTORS
Authors: Hou Su-I 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Purpose
This study investigates factors influencing healthcare providers’ comfort levels in screening older patients for social isolation (SI), a significant risk factor for negative health outcomes in this demographic.

Methods
A diverse sample of 59 providers from healthcare and long-term care settings participated. The mean age of providers was 46, 70% female, and 67% white, possessing an average of 17 years of practice experience. The study utilized research-tested scales measuring provider SI screening comfort level, communication about SI, provider-patient interactions (PPI), provider trust in patients (trust), and cultural sensitivity (CS), showing high internal consistencies.

Results
Providers generally scored high on PPI and CS, and moderately on patient trust and comfort with SI screening. Regression analyses considering all factors revealed that providers with higher scores in communication about social isolation (p=.024), patient-provider interaction (p=.022), and those identifying as minority providers (p=.025) demonstrated greater comfort in screening for social isolation (F(6,32)=3.93, p=.005), explaining a substantial 42.4% of the variance. Gender, patient trust, and cultural sensitivity did not reveal a significant impact on the comfort level associated with screening for social isolation (SI).

Discussion
This study suggests that effective communication and interaction, along with demographic factors like minority status, influence providers’ comfort levels in screening for SI. This pilot study demonstrates the reliability of measures, emphasizing the importance of modifiable communication and interaction factors in addressing social determinants of health, such as social isolation in older adults. Further research with a larger sample is recommended.
OUTCOMES FOR AN INTERGENERATIONAL TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM: A PRE–POST WITH WAITLIST CONTROL STUDY
Authors: Colvin Meaghan , Leedahl Skye , Tsotsoros Cindy , Brasher Melanie , Barbera Gina , Santilli Josie 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The quickly growing population of older adults in the United States combined with an increasingly digital society post-pandemic has illuminated the digital divide in recent years. The digital divide contributes to social isolation and therefore decreased quality of life in older adults, and intergenerational programming has demonstrated potential to bridge this equity gap and keep older adults involved and productive in their communities and larger society. To expand the literature and enhance the rigor of the research design in intergenerational programming, this study utilized a waitlist control design to strengthen outcomes from the University of Rhode Island Engaging Generations Cyber-Seniors Program on measures of technology use, digital competence, loneliness, social isolation, and quality of life. For this design, data was gathered at time 1 (6 weeks before the program), time 2 (2 weeks before the program), and time 3 (after participation in the program). Repeated measures ANOVA was used to examine changes across time points. Implementing a waitlist control design enabled us to examine natural changes that occurred in the measures compared to after program participation. Results showed that the program likely impacted tablet use, digital competence, and social isolation but that loneliness was impacted due to pre-program activities, such as the interview. These findings strengthen the previous research in understanding the specific aspects of social well-being that the program influences. This methodology was a practical way to utilize an already existing waitlist to enhance the rigor of evaluation research methods used.
FALL RISK FACTOR SCREENING AND MANAGEMENT USING VIRTUAL PLATFORMS, PREVALENCE, AND PERCEPTIONS
Authors: Garbin Alexander 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Numerous barriers limit comprehensive assessment and management of fall risk factors within primary care including limited time and competing medical priorities. Virtual platforms provide an opportunity outside of primary care to remotely screen fall risk factors and deliver fall prevention interventions. However, researchers and clinicians may be hesitant to assess and intervene on multifactorial fall risk factors through virtual platforms due to perceived safety concerns, difficulty adapting outcome measures to a virtual environment, and potential technological challenges. This presentation will detail strategies and results from a study examining the prevalence of falls, fall risk, and multifactorial fall risk factors in older Veterans seen within Veterans Health Administration (VHA) primary care using a virtual platform (VA Video Connect). Fall risk factor measurements discussed will include the 5 Times Sit to Stand, the Survey of Activities and Fear of Falling in the Elderly, the Home Falls and Accidents Screening Tool, and the Screening Tool of Older Persons Prescriptions in older adults with high fall risk. Results from semi-structured interviews with Veterans and VHA primary care providers will also be discussed with an emphasis on Veterans’ and providers’ experiences with fall risk factor assessment and management within VHA primary care as well as their perceptions of using telehealth for identifying and managing fall risk factors. Together, this presentation will provide insight on the potential for using virtual platforms to assess multifactorial fall risk factors as well as the perceived barriers and facilitators of identifying and managing fall risk factors in a virtual setting.
FORTIFYING SCHOLARSHIP IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST: AN EXAMINATION OF THE MARGINALIZATION OF DRAG ARTISTS
Authors: Holley Lyn , Hites Kenneth 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Over 14 states have passed or are considering legislation that severely restricts and criminalizes public drag performances. Some bills erroneously label the artistry as “adult cabaret performances” thus, conflating them with nude performances. The Americans Civil Liberties Union, Movement Advancement Project, and other organizations have declared a state of emergency due to this endangerment of constitutionally protected individual human rights. 7.2 to 8 % of the U.S. adult population identifies as sexual and gender minorities (SGM) (HRC, 2021, Gallup,2023). Drag artists are a smaller population within SGM communities and it is believed that the language of anti-drag legislation is designed to also oppress transgender individuals (a separate SGM community). Overall, 2024 has seen 478 anti-LGBTQ bills, 21 of which are drag-specific Several prominent scholars (e.g., Steven Miller of Clemson) have called attention to the similarity between these attacks and the process of “othering” used by Hitler to create public acceptance of annihilation of Jews, the disabled, sexual and gender minorities and ultimately, members of any politically or economically inconvenient group (e.g., older, retired adults). This individual presentation provides a framework to guide scholarly observation and understanding of the current attacks and clarifies the relevant contributions that only scholars can make to produce scientifically valid information and knowledge about Drag Artists and their social and economic impacts on USA society and the economy, thereby strengthening and informing decisions about laws and policy that govern individual freedom of expression.
WE’RE ALL BORN NAKED AND THE REST IS DRAG: EXPLORING DRAMA THERAPY WITH AGING DRAG ARTISTS
Authors: Hafner Camryn , Ortiz Jahmar 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Due to barriers of mental health stigma, limited accessibility, and ageism, older adults are severely underrepresented among those currently engaging in mental health treatment (Saunders et al., 2021). For older drag artists, additional barriers exist in the lineage of invalidation, pathologization, and discrimination which Western psychology and mental health systems have traditionally afforded gender-expansive individuals (Brewster et al., 2019). Drag artistry itself has been found to offer many salutary functions, including providing a sense of freedom and empowerment, fostering resilience through creative achievement and social support, facilitating catharsis, and/or releasing negative emotions (Knutson et al., 2018; Knutson et al., 2023). However, concerns of depression, substance abuse, stressors, and experiences of discrimination among drag artists represent continued need for inclusive, strengths-based mental health care (Knutson & Koch, 2019; Knutson et al., 2018; Knutson et al., 2023; Tillewein & Kruse-Diehr, 2021). Expressive therapies such as drama therapy and psychodrama may be well-suited to engaging with and enhancing the therapeutic potential of drag art (Nakai & Martinez Di-Carlo, 2024; Soubosky, 2021). This presentation details the findings of an exploratory study examining the coping mechanisms of drag artists (n = 5) through the lens of a drama therapy clinical assessment (Ortiz, 2024). Building upon evidence-based treatment protocols (e.g., Keisari, 2021; Lahad et al., 2013), presenters also consider best practices and implications for the treatment of aging drag artists in drama therapy.
INFLUENCE OF HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS ON END-OF-LIFE AND PLACE OF DEATH: A LATENT CLASS ANALYSIS
Authors: Decker Autumn , Weaver Raven , Bolkan Cory , Cooper Brittany 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
People experience end-of-life (EOL) differently due to unique lived experience and sociopolitical position. Most people prefer to die at home, and evidence suggests that healthcare providers have a role to play in fostering a positive EOL experience. This study aimed to understand classes of healthcare provider involvement in the EOL experience and examine the association between class membership and place of death by living alone, race, and/or geographic location. We conducted a latent class analysis with covariates and a distal outcome using Waves 9-12 (n=1290) from the last month of life interview in the National Health and Aging Trends Study. Based on fit statistics, response probabilities, and class separation, a four-class model was selected. These classes were Discordant Death (DD), Controlled Death (CD), Harmonious Death, and Comforted Death. Living alone (p &lt;.001), being White (p =.015) or Black (p =.047), and living in the Northeast (p =.015) or Midwest (p =.039) were significantly associated with latent class membership. Those living alone and in the DD class were most likely to die in a location outside the home, Black individuals in the CD class were most likely to die in a hospital, and those living in the Northwest and in the CD class had the highest probability of dying at home. This work demonstrates that health provider factors have influence over the experiences one has at EOL, and ultimately, their place of death. Future research should explore concordance between EOL wishes and the EOL experience.
TRENDS IN MEDICARE BENEFICIARY PAYMENTS FOR NONHOSPICE SERVICES DURING HOSPICE ELECTIONS
Authors: Christian Thomas , Plotzke Michael 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Hospice election marks a shift towards palliative objectives, although beneficiaries retain curative coverage for unrelated (non-terminal) conditions. Little is known about beneficiary cost sharing for these services. Using Federal Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Medicare claims, we cross-referenced beneficiaries’ hospice and non-hospice services claims’ dates. For overlapping claims, we totaled beneficiaries’ liability payments (coinsurance and deductibles) by year, claim type, and ICD-10 code. We used linear regression analysis to assess trends with beneficiary and hospice characteristics. We also compared beneficiary payments to Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers & Systems (CAHPS) Hospice score star ratings. In FY2022, Medicare paid $931.1 million for non-hospice services during hospice election, for which beneficiaries were collectively billed $206.8 million (18.2%), with 45.0% of hospice beneficiaries paying some amount. The majority was for services on or after the 60th day from hospice admission. Part B accounted for most (88.9%) of the total beneficiary payments. Pressure ulcers, end stage renal disease, hypertension, and COVID-19 were associated with the greatest payment amounts. Beneficiary payments were largest among beneficiaries black or Hispanic, or younger, or terminal heart disease, or dual-eligible for Medicaid, or in a nursing facility, or from a newer, for-profit, or southern hospice. Daily payment rates were $0.32 at the 10th percentile and $3.31 at the 90th percentile. Daily payment rates were $2.17 at CAHPS one-star hospices vs. $1.00 at five-star hospices. CMS should monitor these trends to ensure that vulnerable beneficiaries are not unfairly impacted and evaluate whether beneficiary payments are a useful hospice quality indicator.
EXPERIENCES WITH AND PREPAREDNESS FOR CLIMATE EMERGENCIES IN OREGON ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES
Authors: Kohon Jacklyn , Himes Dani , Carder Paula , Tunalilar Ozcan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Assisted living communities in the U.S. provide housing and care services to a sizable share of older adults and people with disabilities (over 900,000 individuals). The recent increase in climate-related emergencies has underscored the need for these communities to have preparedness measures in place to protect residents and staff. State agencies require preparedness plans, but these plans cannot anticipate all events. Oregon presents an important case study as a pioneer state in community-based care as well as with recent experience in various natural disasters. We interviewed administrators and management company operators (n=14), surveyed 140 direct care workers, and conducted focus groups with direct care workers (n=23) to learn about experiences during recent extreme heat events, wildfires, and ice storms. Thematic analysis revealed several themes related to the existing strengths and challenges in the current systems in place for responding to these emergencies. Strengths included an “all hands on deck” approach demonstrating teamwork among frontline workers, a commitment to show up for the residents in all conditions, and improved relationships with emergency management offices. Challenges included power and internet outage-related interruptions in technology for basic care delivery, insufficient plans for evacuation of residents with complex needs, increased staff injury, and lack of safe transportation. Our findings identify several opportunities and caution against pitfalls for regulators and policymakers in maintaining an acceptable level of emergency preparedness in AL settings.
WE CANNOT WALK THERE ANYMORE: EXPERIENCES OF URBAN STRESS IN AGE-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENTS
Authors: Maulod Ad , Ravindran Malcolm , Wong Yunjie 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Urban stress, or tension attributed to city living, is often experienced by individuals in urban areas due to environmental and social stressors. The life-space framework assesses older persons’ mobility based on the extent of movement within their environment while engaging in activities, and whether assistance is required for said movement. Chronic exposure to urban stress affects older persons’ life-space, and is associated with reduced quality of life. Yet, the connection between urban stress and life-space has not been fully explored in the existing literature. Singapore is the third most densely populated city in the world, ranking highly in terms of liveability. However, the country also undergoes frequent redevelopment, which presents a source of urban stress for older Singaporeans who must continually adapt to changing and unfamiliar landscapes. This presentation draws from ‘go-along’ and in-depth interviews with 60 older Singaporeans. Findings highlight challenges in the lived environment and the difficulties individuals experience travelling to places and activities that are important to their well-being. Despite the emphasis on developing age-friendly infrastructure in Singapore, incompatible person-environment fit was evident among participants who struggle with accessibility, wayfinding, social exclusion, heat and poor home ventilation, care options, and lack of choices in living situations. These issues limit older persons’ life-space capacities and hinders aspirations to age well. Policies promoting ageing-in-place must (i) consider multi-level, intersectional factors comprising built environments, individual resources and social contexts that may mitigate frailty and urban stress, and (ii) involve older persons in designing environments which promote autonomy and belonging.
THE LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF AIR POLLUTION ON ELDERLY HEALTH: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY FROM CHINA
Authors: Tang Xiaotong , Mi Hong 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Healthy elderly individuals are assets to families, communities, and the economic development. Identifying and quantifying long-term effects of environmental factors on elderly health could bring new evidence and policy insights for optimizing pollution response, promoting healthy aging, and unlocking a second demographic dividend. This paper matches city air pollution data from 2003 to 2020 with individual data taken from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) for the years 2013 to 2020. By utilizing changes in wind direction as instrumental variables, it identifies the long-term health impact of average PM2.5 pollutant concentration on China’s elderly population over 1-10 years. The study finds: (1) Air pollution has a significant long-term negative impact on the health level of China’s elderly population. A 10-year average increase of 1μg/m3 in PM2.5 concentration is associated with a 19% increase in the number of chronic diseases, which exhibits a nonlinear trend. (2) Air pollution has a greater long-term impact on women aged 55-65, population of Northern China, and groups with lower levels of education and consumption. (3) Individuals’ avoidance behavior towards air pollution introduces bias in the basic linear regression results, and the negative health impact of long-term exposure to air pollution on the elderly is greater than that of short-term exposure. This paper provides new empirical evidence on the long-term health impacts of air pollution, while offering policy implications for further optimizing response to air pollution and improving the human capital level of the elderly population from an environmental governance perspective.
INTERCONNECTIONS BETWEEN COGNITION, SKELETAL MUSCLES, AND PHYSICAL FUNCTION IN ETHNICALLY DIVERSE COHORTS
Authors: Rosano Caterina , Kritchevsky Stephen , Coen Paul 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
There is marked variability in mobility function at older ages, yet some maintain high functioning even in the face of adverse locomotor risk factors. The mechanisms underlying this resilience remain elusive, but it is clear that the central nervous system plays an important role. Recent findings have shed light on the interconnected biological processes involving muscle-brain cross-talk, albeit primarily in animal models and specific patient populations with muscle degeneration. The extent and nature of such cross-talk in older adult populations remain debated. This symposium aims to advance our understanding of brain-muscle interactions by delving into this emerging concept. Comprising four talks, the symposium will explore various facets of muscle health across diverse cohorts of older adults in the United States. Topics include the structure of the associations between measures of cognitive and physical functions in 3 studies (SOMMA, B-NET and Dunedin), the role of muscle mitochondrial function in the SOMMA study, and the role of intermuscular adiposity in skeletal muscles in the MESA and CARDIA studies. These observations suggest distinctive modulatory and adaptive capacities of the central nervous and musculoskeletal systems may offer insights into understanding the origins of mobility resilience by facilitating adaptation and compensation. This conceptual framework holds potential for identifying innovative multi-systemic interventions aimed at enhancing mobility resilience in older adults.