bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An Evaluation of Social Bridging and Bonding Mechanisms in the Association of Social Networks and Cognitive Function
Authors: Peng Siyun , Perry Brea , Roth Adam , Coleman Max , Sheean Hope 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background and Objectives: Substantial evidence links social connectedness prospectively to cognitive aging outcomes, but there is little agreement about the social processes or mechanisms that drive this relationship. This study evaluated nine measures of social connectedness, focusing on two distinct forms of social enrichment – access to an expansive and diverse set of loosely connected individuals (i.e., social bridging) and integration in a supportive network of close ties (i.e., social bonding). Research Design and Methods: This study used egocentric social network and clinical cognitive data from 311 older adults in the first wave of the Social Networks in Alzheimer Disease (SNAD) study. Linear regressions adjusting for gender, age, education, and depression symptoms were used to estimate the association between nine measures of social connectedness and global cognitive function, verbal memory, and attention. Results: Measures indicative of social bridging (larger network size, lower density, presence of weak ties, and proportion non-kin) were consistently associated with better cognitive outcomes, while measures of social bonding largely produced null effects. Discussion and Implications: These findings suggest that the protective benefits of social connectedness for cognitive function and memory may operate primarily through a cognitive reserve mechanism that is driven by irregular contact with a larger and more diverse group of peripheral others. Population-level interventions that promote the cultivation of social bridging relationships and activities may have benefits for cognition later in life.
Positive and Negative Affect Mediate the Relationship Between Memory Lapses and Life Satisfaction
Authors: Turner Jennifer , Mogle Jacqueline , Hill Nikki , Bharhava Sakshi , Rabin Laura 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Aging is associated with declines and challenges, yet better subjective well-being. Life satisfaction is one aspect of well-being that may be sensitive to daily challenges. Daily memory lapses (e.g., forgetting words or meetings) are common and relevant for many adults. How individuals emotionally respond to challenges like memory lapses is a factor that could determine whether these experiences affect well-being. In a coordinated analysis of two datasets (N=561; ages 25-93 years) using multilevel modeling, we examined whether affective changes related to memory lapses mediated the relationship between memory lapses and life satisfaction. Results were similar across datasets: memory lapses were associated with reduced positive affect and increased negative affect. These associated affective changes also mediated the relationship between lapses and life satisfaction. We discuss the potential implications of our findings for linking proximal events and distal outcomes, and potentially intervening and identifying common challenges to mitigate broad reductions in well-being.
Novel Positional Candidate Gene for Gait Speed Change in Older Adults: The Long Life Family Study
Authors: Santanasto Adam , Wojczynski Mary , Cvejkus Ryan , Thyagarajan Bharat , Christensen Kaare , Schupf Nicole , Daw E Warwick , Zmuda Joseph 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Gait speed is a heritable, robust predictor of longevity in older adults. Using genome-wide linkage analysis in 2379 individuals from 509 families (64±12 years; 45% men), we identified a locus on chromosome 16p linked to gait speed change over 7±1 years (logarithm of the odds score [LOD]=4.2). Gait speed change was calculated using a two-stage growth curve mixed-model. DNA sequencing was completed to identify single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in the linkage region. Association analyses between the 24039 SNVs in the ~1.6mBP region (3.7-5.3mBP) and gait speed change were performed adjusting for age, age2, sex, height, field center, familial relatedness and population substructure. Eleven families (188 individuals) accounted for most of the linkage signal (LOD=6.06). Associations between SNVs flanking the Mesothelin (MSLN) gene and gait speed change were identified (lead SNV rs56850119: β = -0.5±0.1, p = 6.4*10-7). Thus, MSLN is a potential positional candidate gene for mobility decline with aging.
Physical and Mental Health, Technology Use, and Loneliness in Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: DiMaria-Ghalili Rose Ann , Coates Martha , Hathaway Zachary , Moore Katelyn , Park Yaegin , Tsui Jenny , Sefcik Justine 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Social isolation is a negative outcome of COVID-19. This study examined patterns of physical and mental health and technology use in older adults, and loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic. We recruited 115 community-dwelling older adults 65 and older (72% female) from the Pennsylvania region via Research Match (N=84) or from a retirement community (N=31). A significant association between loneliness and worsening of health during the pandemic was observed, Fisher’s Exact Test 6.90, p=.03. Those who were lonely demonstrated significantly lower Mental Component Summary Scores (M = 42.75, SD = 11.55) compared to those who were not lonely (M= 55.34, SD= 7.66), t(49) = 5.84, p &lt;.01. Those reporting loneliness were more likely to use a new electronic device to communicate with family during COVID-19 pandemic, X2, (1, N= 107) = 6.24, p =.01. These findings suggest the important role of technology to decrease loneliness in older adults during a pandemic.
Disparity on Online Patient-Provider Communication and Implications for a Post-COVID Era
Authors: Huh-Yoo Jina , LeVasseur Michael , Coates Martha , Sefcik Justine , DiMaria-Ghalili Rose Ann 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Online patient-provider communication (OPPC) increases access to health-related information, enhances self-care, and reduces healthcare expenditures. We investigated OPPC and technology use changes during 6 years. This descriptive cohort analysis involved data collected from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) between 2011-2016 and during the pandemic (2020). NHATS consist of a nationally representative sample of Medicare beneficiaries. From a total of N=2,389, we assigned cohorts as those who: (1) own computers (High-Tech, 56.1%), (2) own cell phone only or don’t own computer nor cell phones (Low-Tech, 20.2%), and (3) just adopted cell phone or computers (Transition, 23.7%). Only the High-Tech users increased OPPC by 75% over 2011-2016; others remained the same. During the pandemic more participants used mobile technology and internet. Newly adopting technology on its own does not automatically increase OPPC. It is important for Transition users to access training and support to benefit from OPPC.
The Impact and Response to Climate Change as Lived by Older Adults
Authors: Fenley Robin , Antonucci Toni , Fenley Robin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
A growing body of literature documents the domino effects of climate change on the planet and all life. Chief among these changes is the rise in global temperatures, triggering record numbers of heatwaves, and stronger, more dangerous hydrologic events. While climate change looms as a preeminent threat to our planet and future, the public health and human rights ramifications are already apparent. As with many issues in this realm, the effects are felt to a greater degree by our aging populations. As disasters grow in frequency, the more vulnerable populations are at greater risk for more serious outcomes – and will suffer disproportionately from the effects of climate change – resulting in greater inequalities. With the consequences of climate change growing more drastic, these outcomes can be expected to climb unless sufficient measures are enacted to combat global warming. In this symposium we will highlight the link between climate change and its impact on the human rights of older adults, and how climate change threatens progress across the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) - a blueprint for a more equitable and healthier planet - if decisive actions are not taken. This symposium will demonstrate what valuable opportunities exist to accelerate progress by leveraging the links between SDGs to combat inequalities and climate change. Panelists will discuss the adverse effects of climate change, the human rights and psychological impacts on older adults, and potential action steps and strategies for older persons to become empowered as advocates for climate change reform.
Pain Assessment and Documentation for Older Adults Presenting with Non-surgical Conditions in Emergency Room
Authors: Haque Raza , Bezerko Mara , Tibbits Lauren , Tate Karen 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Pain is one of the most common reasons for Emergency Department (ED) visits among older adults. However, timely pain assessment and management in this population in ED is a challenging task due to many factors ranging from; sensory, cognitive impairments, chronic pain, reliability of assessment tools, multimorbidity and system factors such as triage-based dynamic ED workflow. Where the implementation of the EMR was anticipated to improve patientcare, literature has indicated the barriers in effective utilization of the EMR for this purpose. We posit that pain assessment and documentation could be variable among older adults presenting with non-surgical conditions. Objectives:1. To examine the proportion of documented initial pain assessment of nonsurgical older adults visiting emergency department 2. To examine the number of initial pain assessments documented in the chart by the five major categories of ICD-10 diagnoses upon discharge. Methods: A retrospective exploratory chart review of 4613 emergency room visits for first pain assessment in the EMR conducted for all adults 65 years or older, presenting with non-surgical conditions, who were discharged same day at an urban teaching hospital. Results: In our study 75.72% of encounters reviewed had a documented pain assessment. Completed pain assessments for the corresponding five most common non-surgical diagnostic categories presenting to our ED: Abdominal pain (92.59%), MSK (92.11 %), chest pain (83.92%), dyspnea (80%) and falls (79.46%). Conclusion: Frequency of pain assessment and the management process of older adults presenting with non-surgical conditions in the institution studied was variable and differed based on presenting conditions.
An Aging Nursing Workforce: Thematic Analysis from the Nurstory Project
Authors: LeBlanc Raeann 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background: Nursing in the United States of America is an aging workforce. This study sought to better understand the lived experience of aging nurses. Because nurses work in systems where other forms of interpersonal power dynamics may influence internalized and external stereotype an approach based on intersectional theory was applied. Methods: A qualitative thematic narrative analysis of an existing data set of first-person digital stories in the Nurstory project, authored by a group of nurses, was the data source. An emergent coding method was applied. The collection of five digital stories were analyzed. Results: All stories were first person accounts of experiences that represented their internalized reflections and elements of ageism in how their age interacted with their work environment. Dominant themes included: 1) Role constriction 2) Strength 3) Tired and (re)Tired 4) Age perceived and 5)Loneliness. Conclusions: These aging nursing stories add to the contextual layers of the aging healthcare workplace and aging nursing workforce. These individual experiences offer a nuanced understanding of the internalized responses to aging and ageism. These stories highlight socially constructed and socially reinforced attitudes that are complicated by the personal and occupational expectations of nurse’s work, their role and embedded hierarchies in healthcare. Stories such as these are important individual and collective indicators of lived experiences that offer a deeper understanding into the intersections of social identity and aging, that when listened to, can offer insight and a way forward in addressing the stereotype, discrimination and social inequities of ageism.
Self-Perceptions of Aging Among Dementia Caregivers: Evidence from the UK Protect Study
Authors: Turner Shelbie , Sabatini Serena , Brooker Helen , Corbett Anne , Hampshire Adam 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Contact with older adults impact the perceptions people have towards their own aging self (Jarrott & Savla, 2015) and how they prepare for their own age-related change (Kornadt et al., 2015). Caregivers have close, intimate contact with older adults, yet no research explores how that contact may impact caregivers’ perceptions of their own aging. In this exploratory study, we compare perceptions of one’s own aging between current and previous formal caregivers, non-formal caregivers, and never-caregivers. We utilized data from 1978 informal caregivers, 247 formal caregivers, and 5586 never-caregivers of the 2019 wave of the UK Protect Study. We conducted ANCOVA tests to compare global levels of Awareness of Age-Related Change (AARC) gains and losses, AARC gains and losses specific to cognition, attitudes towards one’s own aging, and felt age across the three subgroups of participants with different caregiving roles. Omnibus results suggested that there were significant group differences (p&lt;.05) in global levels of AARC gains and losses, AARC gains specific to cognition, and attitudes towards one’s own aging (p&lt;.05) for female, but not male, caregivers. However, effect sizes were either small or negligible. Therefore, despite frequent contact with older adults, dementia caregivers may not have better or worse self-perceptions of aging than non-caregivers. Such findings may be reflective of intergenerational ambivalence, and future work should consider how the nature of the caregiving situation (i.e. relationship quality, intensity of the care, caregiver burden) shapes caregivers’ perceptions of their own aging, especially over time as caregivers navigate their own aging processes.
Changes in the Use of Intensive and Supportive Care with Heart Failure in the Last Month of Life Between 2001 and 2013
Authors: Chou Piling , Lin Peichao 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background: Heart failure (HF) is a global epidemic affecting the elder globally. It is uncertain what care patients with heart failure receive at their end of life and what care trends are in the last month of life. OBJECTIVES: This study's objective was to investigate the changes in the use of intensive and supportive procedures for Taiwanese patients with heart failure in their last month of life during 2001-2013. METHODS: Analysis of claims data of 25,375 patients with heart failure obtained from the National Health Insurance Research Database was performed to investigate the changes in the use of intensive and supportive procedures for Taiwanese patients with heart failure in their last month of life during 2001-2013. RESULTS: Over the whole study period, 53.3% of patients with heart failure were admitted to intensive care units in their last month of life. The percentages of patients receiving mechanical ventilation (54.3%-41.5%), cardiopulmonary resuscitation (41.5%-16.7%), decreased over time. The percentages of patients receiving artificial hydration and nutrition (52.5.9%-56.8%) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation(ECMO) (0.52%-1.78%) increased over time. Patients under 75 years old were more likely to be admitted to intensive care units. CONCLUSION: Over time, supportive procedures increased, and intensive procedures decreased in patients with heart failure in the last month of life. This study highlights a need for research, guidelines, and training in how to provide palliative care for end-stage patients with heart failure.
Hypertension Diagnosis, Treatment, and Control among Older Chinese: Trends in the Hypertension Care Cascade
Authors: Zhao Erfei , Wu Qiao , Crimmins Eileen , Zhang Yuan 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death in China. Older persons are at higher risk of elevated blood pressure and are more likely to have insufficient hypertension care, including delayed diagnosis and poor management. However, we know little about hypertension care among older Chinese at a population level. We use a nationally representative sample of older adults from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) in 2011 and 2015 (n = 9,083), to clarify the hypertension care cascade for the older population in China by specifying the level of diagnosis, treatment, and control of hypertension. We then examine the characteristics of those (1) who received appropriate hypertension care and (2) whose care improved over time. Diagnosis and care improved between 2011 and 2015. Among those with hypertension, 55% and 67% were diagnosed in 2011 and 2015 respectively; 46% and 60% were treated with modern medication; and 20% and 29% were effectively controlled. Those who had higher income (OR=1.52; P&lt;0.01) or obese (OR=2.43; P&lt;0.001) were relatively more likely to be diagnosed, while those living in the western region (OR=0.65; P&lt;0.01) or living in urban areas with a rural hukou (OR=0.54; P&lt;0.01) were less likely. Persons age 75+ (OR=0.55; P&lt;0.05) were less likely to have their blood pressure controlled, while those who had higher income (OR=1.50; P&lt;0.05) were more likely. The improvement from 2011 to 2015 in hypertension care was concentrated among those that are obese or living in the West.
Associations Between Meal Program Participation and Protein Intake in People Over 65 (NHANES 2013-2018)
Authors: Collins Sarah , Blanco Robert , Hines Anika 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Protein plays a critical role in healthy aging. Little research exists regarding the association between meal program participation and protein consumption among individuals 65 and older. The objective of this research is to provide health professionals with a better understanding of how meal program participation through delivery services or congregate sites may relate to nutritional status. We analyzed cross-sectional data on 2845 individuals ≥65 years old who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) during 2013-2018. Using linear regression models, we explored relationships between meal participation and covariates ( sex, race, marital status, income, and age) on protein intake. Protein intake did not differ significantly between individuals who participated in meal programs and those who did not. However, among individuals who answered whether or not they participated in meal programs, race was significantly associated with decreased protein intake. Non-Hispanic Blacks experienced a two-day average 8.82 grams lower [SE:1.48; p&lt;.0001] that their white counterparts. Similarly, Hispanic/Latinos’ two-day protein average was 4.29 grams lower [SE:2.05; p=0.0426]. The association between earning an income of &lt;$20,000 per year and protein intake was also statistically significant [β: -8.44. SE:2.4, p=0.0014]. Understanding protein intake among older adults who utilize meal programs is a gap in current literature. Results from this research may inform questions that health professionals should include in their assessments of older adults and provide guidance for nutrition policies and meal programs for people over 65.
Hearing Loss and Health Care Seeking
Authors: Reed Nicholas 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Hearing loss is common among older adults. Hearing loss is associated with increased health care expenditures, risk of 30-day readmission, and longer length of hospital stay. However, little is known about behaviors and attitudes in seeking care. In this cross-sectional analysis, we examined data from the 2016 Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS) datasets. Participants are asked to describe their self-perceived trouble hearing. Health care seeking attitudes were assessed on all study participants in 2016 via self-report avoidance or delay of care, personal health concerns, and sharing health status. Multivariate regression models adjusted for demographic/socioeconomic characteristics and general health determinants were used to explore the association between trouble hearing and outcomes. In the 2016 MCBS, 12,140 Medicare beneficiaries, representing 51 million with survey weights, answered questions on help-seeking attitudes. In the sample, 55.6% reported no trouble hearing, while 38.8% and 5.5% reported a little trouble and a lot of trouble hearing, respectively. Those with a lot of trouble hearing were more likely to report avoiding doctors (Odds Ratio [OR] = 1.35; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 1.09 – 1.67) and delaying care (OR = 1.47; 95% CI = 1.19 – 1.82). However, no differences were found in personal health concerns or willingness to share health status with others. Poorer health care seeking behaviors may help explain higher costs associated with hearing loss as avoidance of care can exacerbate health problems. Further work is needed to understand underlying reasons and whether addressing hearing loss modifies the observed association.
Remote Delivery of Virtual Reality Patient Simulations for Nursing Education
Authors: Hannans Jaime 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
In the midst of rapid transfers to online teaching for experiential learning opportunities in nursing clinical labs this past spring due to the pandemic, nursing simulations with immersive virtual reality (VR) in VR headsets were deemed impossible. In partnership with Embodied Labs, nursing faculty pivoted to facilitating VR using remote learning approaches in groups. In this new VR approach nursing students engaged in active learning, critical discourse, and reflection guided by faculty delivered VR scenarios remotely with in-session debriefing during discussion pause points. Complex scenarios focused on patient or family perspectives (e.g. during end-of-life care or navigating community and healthcare needs as a LGBTQ individual). These were valuable online learning opportunities for undergraduate nursing education. Student feedback was positive, and faculty perceptions indicated using VR remote learning offers rich, engaging discussion through complex topics important to nursing clinical practice.