bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Lipid Droplet Signaling in Metabolic Health and Aging
Authors: Najt Charles , Mashek Douglas 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Lipid droplets (LDs) are neutral lipid rich organelles involved in lipid storage, fatty acid trafficking, and signaling. Emerging evidence from our laboratory and others suggests that the specific LD resident proteins couple/uncouple cells and tissues from inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. However, the mechanism by which LD proteins influences these critical pathways remains unknown. We will present data delving into the role of LD proteins Perilipin (PLIN) 2 and 5 in balancing cellular energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, and inflammation. Data will be presented defining novel mechanisms through which PLIN2 orchestrates eicosanoid production as a means to promote inflammation. We will contrast these findings to PLIN5, which uncouples LD accumulation from metabolic dysfunction and inflammation, in part due to its promotion of SIRT1 signaling. Overall, these studies will highlight a crucial role of LD metabolism and signaling in regulating cellular energy homeostatic processes known to be key players in governing healthspan.
How COVID-19 Impacted Older Adult Walking Group Members in Scotland: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Martin Kathryn , Stelfox Kevin , Khor Wei Lynn , Poobalan Amudha , Powell Daniel , Vieira Rute , D'Arcy Marjory , Murchie Peter 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Scotland has enacted strict social distancing and stay-at-home policies during the COVID-19 pandemic, at times prohibiting outdoor group-based physical activity. This mixed-method study examined the changing role of older adult walking groups in North East Scotland around the first lockdown and how restrictions impacted members’ well-being. Three consecutive surveys were posted or emailed to members of the Grampian 50+ Network over summer 2020, with questions about social contact, loneliness, well-being, physical activity, public health messages, help-seeking behavior, and socio-demographics. 346 members completed the June survey, with 268 (83%) returning the follow-up survey in July, and 258 (80%) in August. Twenty participants (selection criteria - gender and geographic location) participated in repeated semi-structured interviews. Participants were, on average, 72±7 years old (range: 58-90), retired (94%), and women (80%). Participants reported missing in-person interaction from not regularly meeting with their walking group. Groups adapted to stay-at-home measures by using technology (i.e. videoconferencing/text/email/telephone) to maintain relationships. Easing restrictions required groups to modify format, location and size. Concerns about safe transport, mask-wearing, maintaining social distance (2m/6ft), and potential lack of socialisation emerged as barriers for future engagement. While, participants generally expressed confidence in the Scottish Government’s pandemic response and public health messaging, they expressed dissatisfaction that ‘over-70s’ were grouped together. Findings suggest that these walking group members fared well and were adaptive in response to the pandemic. Promoting group-based opportunities for physical activity and social interaction remain vital for the health and well-being of older adults in the near and long term.
Social Islands: Examining the Intersection of Isolation and Technology Use
Authors: Svec Joseph , Gilligan Megan 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Life course theory suggests that social relationships are tied to overall well-being. In the extant literature social isolation negatively impacts physical and mental health outcomes in later life. In this study, we focus specifically on the association between social isolation and older adult’s self-rated health status. We also examine whether and the extent to which technology use augments negative health consequences attributed to isolation. Using data on 3,758 older adults (ages 65+) from the 2018 wave of the Health and Retirement Study, we contribute to current scholarly examinations at the intersection of technology and isolation. We conduct a series of ordinal logistic regressions to estimate the odds of respondents’ higher self-rated health (from poor = 1 to excellent = 5) on subjective measures of social isolation (i.e. feel left out, lack of companionship and isolated from others) in addition to whether respondents live with a partner and have an adult child who lives in close geographic proximity. Preliminary results show that individuals who perceived higher levels of social isolation evaluated their own health status as poorer. We also find that the use of computers for virtual communications corresponds with higher self-rated health statuses, regardless of the proximity of children or other family members. However, a negative interaction between computer use and isolation indicates the positive effects of technology are limited for those who are highly isolated. These findings suggest that technology impacts on health are nuanced, where an overreliance on technology as a substitute may not consistently yield positive outcomes.
The Evolving Role of Area Agencies on Aging Through the COVID-19 Pandemic and Beyond
Authors: Wilson Traci , Blair Elizabeth 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) have played an important and well-documented role in meeting the nutritional and wellness needs of older adults during COVID-19. To better understand the continued impact of COVID-19 pandemic on AAA services, partnerships, and clients, the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging surveyed the nation’s 618 AAAs in February 2021, with a 27% response rate. As a result of COVID-19, most AAAs reported both increased numbers of new clients and needs of existing clients; three-quarters of AAAs developed new external partnerships; and over half are implementing strategies to address equity and inclusion regarding their services and clients. Nearly 80% of AAAs are involved with COVID-19 vaccine outreach and delivery, from scheduling appointments to administering the vaccine to homebound clients. We will describe these and other transformations of services, partnerships, and client needs; discuss challenges and opportunities; and provide examples and video vignettes from AAA directors.
Case Study on the Community Resilience Within Title VI Programs During COVID-19: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Bailey Abigail 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Health inequalities increased for Native Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic due to poor infrastructure, lack of electricity, health disparities, limited transportation, and rural location (Yellow Horse, 2021). Title VI programs-- aging network organizations that serve tribal elders--had to be resourceful to meet increased needs and restrictions on service delivery options. Qualitative data from the national 2020 Title VI Native American Aging Programs Survey illustrated the challenges faced and the resiliency of these organizations and their communities. Two rounds of thematic coding of 479 open-ended responses to the survey revealed that communication across organizations, a sense of shared mission, and sharing of resources allowed these agencies to provide more services in innovative ways. Challenges included limited funding, regulatory barriers, and staff burnout. A video presentation by a Title VI program director will provide context for the results of the survey.
An Interdisciplinary Home-Based Medical Care Program to Reach Homebound Adults Living With Dementia
Authors: Mattos Meghan , Duffy Karen , Ranta Tuula , Mutter Justin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The COVID pandemic has impacted access to care, particularly for older, homebound persons living with dementia (PwD). At the beginning of the pandemic, our interdisciplinary team introduced a home-based medical care program (HBMC) to address chronically ill and homebound PwD and caregivers’ needs to promote aging in place. The purpose of this presentation is to describe PwD and caregiver service use and experiences with Virginia at Home (VaH) HBMC during the pandemic. All PwD participating in VaH program are offered home telehealth access with necessary devices. We will discuss telehealth access and use and dyad-care provider communication across up to 20 dyads to facilitate continuity of care. These data are supplemented by qualitative interviews with dyads presenting needs, preferences, and experiences accessing and using services across the first six months of program launch. We will conclude with a discussion of participant-informed program alterations to facilitate optimal overall care and outcomes.
Adaptations to In-Home Health Care Due to COVID-19: The VA’s Home-Based Primary Care Program
Authors: Wyte-Lake Tamar , Haverhals Leah , Manheim Chelsea , Solorzano Nelly , Gillespie Suzanne 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional Home Based Primary Care (HBPC) care processes, including changes to provision of face-to-face care in-home for older adults. Our study describes and explains care delivery changes Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) HBPC programs made in response to the pandemic. We fielded a national survey to all 140 VA HBPC programs, targeting interdisciplinary care teams and HBPC leadership. We structured survey questions using a mixed method approach with both closed and open-ended questions, applying a qualitative content analysis approach to open-ended responses complemented by analysis of descriptive quantitative data. Preliminary findings highlight the value and consideration of different telehealth modalities when caring for an older, homebound population, as well as creative adaptations HBPC teams made to deliver care during the pandemic. Implications include nascent development of decision-making paradigms beyond the pandemic particularly for appropriate use of telehealth modalities for older homebound adults.
Lessons From Lighthouse: Operationalizing Technology to Support Older Adults in Affordable Housing Communities
Authors: Lindeman David 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Lighthouse for Older Adults, an innovative public-private partnership, was developed in response to COVID-19 as a means of advancing telehealth for low-income older adults living in affordable housing communities. Residents of these communities often don’t have reliable access to devices, sufficient bandwidth for telehealth, or adequate social services, further complicated by the need for multi-lingual and culturally sensitive programs. This presentation will share program implementation strategies and outcomes, including the essential role telehealth services play in the care and wellbeing of older adults during and beyond COVID-19. This session will review evidence-based components of a telehealth intervention, including digital literacy training and technology support. Key drivers for successful implementation (e.g., peer led training, user input into technology selection) as well as barriers to implementation (e.g., broad band installation, internet service availability/cost, tech support) will be reviewed. Lessons learned through program replication and scaling of Lighthouse telehealth services will be discussed.
Telehealth and 30-Day Readmissions Among Heart Failure Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Xu Hanzhang , Granger Bradi , Peterson Eric , Dupre Matthew 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This study examined whether outpatient follow-up within 14 days of discharge via telehealth visits are as effective as in-person visits for reducing 30-day readmission in heart failure (HF) patients. Using electronic health records from a large health system, we included HF patients (n=1,722) who were hospitalized during the period of March 15-July 15, 2020. Overall, 28.1% of patients received an early outpatient follow-up visit. Patients who received telehealth visits (n=119) were more likely to be older and live in areas with higher median household incomes than those with in-person visits (n=365). Thirty-day readmission rates were 20.5% during the COVID-19 period. Multivariate models showed that patients who received a telehealth (OR=0.36, 95%CI [0.23-0.56]) or an in-person (OR=0.42, 95%CI [0.31-0.57]) visit were less likely to be readmitted within 30 days compared with patients without an early outpatient follow-up. Telehealth visits were just as effective as in-person visits at reducing 30-day readmissions.
The Pathways to Healthy Ageing: Evidence From Longitudinal Studies and Real-Time Data
Authors: Lum Terry Y S 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The WHO has replaced its active ageing policy framework developed in 2002 with the new Healthy Ageing framework developed in 2015 and declared the decade between 2020 and 2030 as the Decade of Healthy Ageing. Healthy Ageing framework emphasizes the pivotal role of functional ability (FA) among older adults and conceptualizes that FA can be determined by intrinsic capacity (IC), environments (EN), and their interaction. WHO calls for global research to advance theoretical understanding of Healthy Ageing framework and translate the evidence into policy actions. This symposium provides the latest findings on Healthy Ageing from multi-country studies using real-time data and longitudinal study design. Dr. Röcke explored daily time-out-of-home and place visit diversity with daily emotional and stress processes in Zurich, using sensor-based and self-reported mobility and activity indicators to capture FA. Dr. Lu investigated the EN and 4-year trajectories of IC and their impact on FA trajectories among older adults in Hong Kong. Dr. Liu explored the longitudinal associations between neighborhood physical EN and depressive symptoms of older adults in Hong Kong and the moderating effects of terrain slope and declining daily activity of living. Dr. Guo investigated the relationship between perceived EN (environmental cognition) and mental health and the mediating roles of physical activity and place attachment. Dr. Chan explored neighborhood physical EN and cognition among older people and identified whether this association varies among different older age groups. Based on these findings, this symposium will discuss the future research direction on Healthy Ageing and its policy implication.
Associations Between Neighborhood Environments and Depressive Symptoms of Older Adults
Authors: Liu Yuqi , Lu Shiyu , Guo Yingqi , Ho Hung Chak , Chui Hiu Kwan , Webster Chris , Chiu Lai Har , Lum Terry Y S 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Little is known about the accumulative impacts of neighbourhood physical environments on depression among older adults. Based on a cohort study of 2,081 older adults in Hong Kong, this study examined longitudinal relationships between neighbourhood physical environments and depressive symptoms among older adults and the moderating effects of the slope of terrain and individual functional ability using latent growth curve modelling. Results indicated that the availability of community centres and passive leisure facilities reduced depressive symptoms over time. The protective effects of residential surrounding greenness on depressive symptoms among older adults differed by the slope of terrain. Longitudinal associations between neighbourhood physical environments and depressive symptoms varied between older adults with and without functional limitations. Identifying environmental barriers and applying targeted residential environment interventions are essential.
Environmental Cognition and Mental Health: Physical Activity and Place Attachment as Pathways
Authors: Guo Yingqi , Lu Shiyu , Liu Yuqi , Chan On Fung , Chui Hiu Kwan , Lum Terry Y S 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Few studies have explored the underlying pathways between environment cognition (i.e., perception of environment) and mental health in older adults. We tested the mediation effects of physical activity and place attachment in the relationship between environmental cognition and mental health, based on a survey study of 1,553 older adults in Hong Kong using structural equation model. The results showed that significant relationship between negative environmental cognition (i.e., residing in higher accessible area but perceive lower) on access to convenient stores, leisure facilities, clinics, community centers, religious places and lower mental health can be explained by lower daily average physical activity time. Place attachment can significantly mediate the positive effect of positive environmental cognition (i.e., residing in lower accessible area but perceive higher) towards all types of services on mental health. Findings from this study have policy implication for urban planning and age-friendly community design
The Rational Use of Hormone Replacement Therapy in Older Adults
Authors: Mammen Jennifer , Simonsick Eleanor , Simonsick Eleanor 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Multiple hormone levels are lower in older compared to younger adults, but the clinical implications are controversial. Lower thyroid hormone, testosterone, estrogen and vitamin D are variously associated with metabolic syndrome, sarcopenia, low bone density and cognitive decline, for which treatment has been recommended in the past. However, evidence from the T Trials of testosterone therapy failed to show benefit for endpoints other than sexual function. In the Women’s Health Initiative, a large RCT of estrogen replacement in older women, found evidence of an interaction between estrogen therapy and metabolic risk factors such as diabetes that actually exacerbates risk of cognitive decline. Longitudinal observation of thyroid hormone and thyrotropin patterns in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging demonstrate heterogeneity that might account for a lack of benefit in studies of treatment for subclinical hypothyroidism in older adults. At the same time, new data suggest the need for a more aggressive threshold for vitamin D in older adults, with a lower threshold associated with a drop in physical function compared to younger adults. Complexity in the regulation of hormonal pathways and the downstream effects on target tissues means multiple individuals with similar hormone levels may have different underlying physiology, with divergent clinical needs. Changes in activity and diet common during aging, and exacerbated by the pandemic, lead to physical and mood changes associated with hormonal dysfunction in popular culture and patient requests for evaluation. The ultimate goal should be personalized treatment decisions based on comprehensive evaluation and pathophysiology.
Prioritizing Community in Research Decision-Making Through Partnership
Authors: Marrone Nicole , Ingram Maia , Wong Aileen , Piper Rosie , Colina Sonia , Carvajal Scott , Coco Laura 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
In behavioral intervention research, taking a community-based participatory research approach enhances recruitment and retention while facilitating the transfer of research findings into social change. Successes with recruitment and retention are secondary to enacting fundamental principles of trust, reciprocity, cultural humility, empowerment, and respect. This presentation will describe a longitudinal clinical trial in a Southwest borderlands community, Oyendo Bien. The study was co-developed and implemented with community partnership throughout the research process. Dyads were recruited to participate in a community-delivered group education and support program addressing hearing loss for Spanish-speakers age 50+ years (n=132 participants randomized). We highlight the critical role that community health workers (promotoras) held as members of the research team. Furthermore, we describe an innovative approach for language mediation that integrates and empowers community participation. This presentation will include examples of lessons learned from the community in collaborating to conduct research in a way that truly serves.
Kent and Kleemeier Award Lecture and Presentations
Authors: Harvath Theresa 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The Donald P. Kent Award lecture will feature an address by the 2020 Kent Award recipient, David Ekerdt, PhD, FGSA, of the University of Kansas. The Kent Award is given annually to a member of The Gerontological Society of America who best exemplifies the highest standards of professional leadership in gerontology through teaching, service, and interpretation of gerontology to the larger society. The Robert W. Kleemeier Award lecture will feature an address by the 2020 Kleemeier Award recipient, Matt Kaeberlein, PhD, FGSA, of the University of Washington. The Kleemeier Award is given annually to a member of The Gerontological Society of America in recognition for outstanding research in the field of gerontology.
Neighborhood Environment and Cardiometabolic Disease in Individuals Aging With Physical Disability
Authors: Khan Anam , Lin Paul , Kamdar Neil , Mahmoudi Elham , Clarke Philippa 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The environment may be particularly important for facilitating participation and health for individuals aging with physical disability. However, little is known about which features of the neighborhood are particularly pertinent for this population. This study aims to address this gap by examining the type(s) of neighborhood environments associated with cardiometabolic disease. We identified ~26,000 individuals with a diagnosis of physical disability using a national private health insurance claims database in the U.S. Geocoded information for individuals was used to assign them to features of their neighborhood from the National Neighborhood Data Archive. An adapted typology was used to classify neighborhoods into the following based on density of health-promoting and harming features: 1) High health-promoting/harming (service-dense), 2) High health-promoting/low harming, 3) Low health-promoting/high harming, 4) Low health-promoting/harming, and 5) Average. We used time-varying Cox models to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for time-to incident cardiometabolic conditions. High neighborhood-level affluence, and low disadvantage scores characterized service-dense neighborhoods. They had more than 2x higher density of health-promoting resources (e.g., transit) compared to other neighborhood types. Individuals residing in service-dense neighborhoods had an 8% lower risk of any cardiometabolic disease (HR 0.92, 95% CI: 0.85-0.99) compared to those in average neighborhoods. Similar effects were observed for Hypertension and Type 2 Diabetes, with effects most pronounced for the latter (HR 0.82, 95% CI: 0.71-0.94). For individuals aging with physical disabilities, service-dense neighborhoods may be protective against cardiometabolic morbidity. Findings can inform community design that support cardiometabolic health in this population.