bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
INTRINSIC PACE: PATTERNS OF ASSOCIATION BETWEEN PHYSICAL AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION ACROSS THREE COHORTS
Authors: Kritchevsky Stephen , Cawthon Peggy , Johnson Eileen , Moffitt Terrie , Thompson Atalie , Xie Kathy , Miller Michael 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Physical and cognitive function are fundamental aging concepts. However, our understanding of their connection is limited by past work using few assessments or limited age ranges. We used canonical correlation to study the structure of associations between large sets of physical and cognitive assessments in two studies of adults age ≥70; the B-NET (Brain Networks and Mobility Function) study (N=192; 6 physical measures and 13 cognitive measures), and SOMMA (the Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging) (N=879; 9 physical and 6 cognitive measures). In B-NET and SOMMA, the first canonical function explained 26% and 25% of the shared variability between the two measure sets. In both studies, ONLY TIMED assessments (e.g. stair climb time, gait speed (4M and 400M), chair stand pace, digit symbol coding, and trail-making test-B) strongly loaded on the first function. We sought to replicate this finding in the Dunedin Study (N=1037), a cohort of residents born in 1972-73 who completed 6 physical and 12 cognitive measures when participants were 45.We observed that the timed measures had the strongest associations across physical and cognitive domains. For example, WAIS Processing Speed was most strongly correlated with chair stand time (r=.25) and gait velocity over 6M (r=.26). In contrast, untimed physical tests were at best weakly correlated with untimed cognitive tests. For example, grip strength was most highly correlated with WAIS Working Memory, r=.15. Together, these three studies confirm the presence of a previously unidentified construct connecting physical and cognitive function, which we have tentatively named ‘intrinsic pace’.
LGBTQIA+ OLDER ADULTS’ NEEDS, CONCERNS, AND EXPERIENCES IN HEALTH CARE: INCLUSIVITY, CAREGIVING, AND VISIBILITY
Authors: Valenti Korijna , Bybee Sara 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
LGBTQIA+ aging research requires in-depth examination of experiences around discrimination, inclusivity, and communication in healthcare to better understand the distinct needs of diverse subgroups, including people living in long-term care (LTC) facilities, living with neurodegenerative illnesses, and caregivers. LGBTQIA+ older adults not only have diverse life experiences but also specific needs regarding advocacy, policy, and healthcare support and resources. This symposium includes findings from four distinct areas of study. Valenti and colleagues examined perspectives of 20 palliative-cared trained clinicians to better understand their experiences with LGBTQI+ patients living with serious illness and their chosen care partners, exploring issues around communication, collection of SOGI data, and inclusivity. In a study with LTC administrators in Minnesota, Wright and colleagues examined issues around identifying LGBTQIA+ LTC residents, discrimination of residents (including residents living with cognitive impairment), and barriers around LGBTQIA+ inclusion in research. Stein and colleagues examined issues around discrimination in healthcare for LGBTQIA+ patients through Project Respect, a cross-sectional mixed methods study of 290 patients and partners which found high levels of disrespect and inadequate care. Flatt and colleagues provide insights from an analysis of two qualitative studies of AD/PD caregivers with a specific focus on identifying barriers to support, inclusion in research, and issues around personal and social needs. Presentations in this symposium illustrate how discrimination, inclusivity, and personal and social support inform the needs of LGBTQIA+ older adults living with serious illness, in LTC, and as caregivers as well as providing implications for future aging research and interventions in practice.
DYNAMICS OF SOCIAL ISOLATION IN A NATIONAL SAMPLE OF COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Umoh Mfon , Pomeroy Mary Louise , Mueller Alexandra , Craig Taylor , Ornstein Katherine , Prichett Laura , Cudjoe Thomas 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Social isolation is linked to adverse health outcomes; 25% of older adults in the United States are socially isolated. However, episodic social isolation may carry different implications for health outcomes compared to chronic social isolation. Many studies examine social isolation at a single point rather than considering it as a circumstance that is intermittent or persistent. This study examined social isolation dynamics in older adults using nationally representative cohort data from 11 rounds of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (N=6,913) to describe differences between older adults with chronic, intermittent, and no social isolation. Social isolation status was derived from points given for questions about living arrangement, core discussion network size on important matters, religious attendance, and social participation. Persistent social isolation was defined as social isolation during more than 50% of available rounds and intermittent social isolation as isolation in at least one round but less than 50% of rounds. The analytic sample had social isolation scores available for a median of four rounds (IQR 3,10; M = 5.28); 20% experienced persistent isolation, 27% experienced intermittent isolation. Demographic characteristics were compared using Chi-square tests and an alpha threshold of 0.05 with the never isolated group as reference. Age, education, income, difficulty with activities of daily living, dual eligibility (Medicare and Medicaid insurance), and dementia status at baseline were correlated with social isolation persistence. Identifying factors associated with the persistence of social isolation may guide the design of interventions targeted to prevent social isolation and its detrimental consequences.
THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF SOCIAL ISOLATION AND LONELINESS OF FAMILY AND UNPAID CAREGIVERS OF OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Qian Yiqing , Pomeroy Mary Louise , Saylor Martha , Ornstein Katherine 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The experience of caring for older relatives and friends can be socially isolating. Family and unpaid caregivers (“caregivers”) may encounter barriers to social participation (e.g., caregiving duties) and unmet needs in support. Given limited epidemiological evidence of social isolation (SI) and loneliness in this population in the U.S., we reported the prevalence and correlates of SI and loneliness in the National Study of Caregiving Round 12 (n=2,119). Most were females (62%), non-Hispanic white (69%), and had a high school education (91%). Most cared for a parent/parent-in-law (46%). Caregivers provided an average of 70 hours of care/month. On a 4-item SI scale ranging from 0 (high SI) to 4 (low SI), the mean score was 2.6. About 13% of caregivers were categorized as socially isolated. About 33% reported feeling lonely “some days,” “most days,” or “every day.” Logistic regression showed female caregivers (OR: 0.56[0.37,0.86]) and those with lower education levels (OR[college vs below high school]: 0.14[0.06,0.33]) were less likely to be socially isolated vs not isolated, controlling for other socio-demographic (e.g., age) and caregiving characteristics (e.g., hours). Adjusted ordinal logistic regression further showed SI levels among care recipients were associated with SI levels among caregivers (OR: 1.66[1.38,2.00]). Null associations were found in parallel analyses on loneliness. This study highlights the heterogeneity of SI among caregivers of older adults and the necessity of examining the shared experiences with care recipients. More comprehensive loneliness instruments in public health surveillance may advance the understanding of experiences and impacts of SI and loneliness in caregiving.
BIRTH COHORT DIFFERENCES IN BURDEN OF MULTIMORBIDITY OVER TIME AMONG CHINESE OLDEST-OLD ADULTS
Authors: Zhu Junmin , Wu Yafei , Duan Siyu , Fang Ya 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objective
Multimorbidity has significantly burdened healthcare systems worldwide. Understanding the longitudinal changes of multimorbidity over time among the oldest-old adults is necessary but limited. This study aimed to investigate the birth cohort effects on multimorbidity burden among Chinese oldest-old adults and compare the differences across two decades of longitudinal surveys.

Methods
Data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity and Happy Family Study were utilized. Due to the high mortality and attrition rates in the oldest-old adults, we included 2603 and 2404 participants aged 80 and older in 1998 and 2008 surveys, respectively, with each survey followed up for a decade of repeated assessment. The burden of multimorbidity, defined as the presence of 12 chronic health conditions, was analyzed. The generalized linear mixed models were employed to evaluate the birth cohort effects. Additionally, we analyzed the impact of demographic, lifestyle, and socioeconomic factors on the burden of multimorbidity.

Results
In the 1998 longitudinal survey, the earlier birth cohorts had a higher multimorbidity burden over time than those born later (β = 1.217-1.335). Conversely, in the 2008 longitudinal survey, the older birth cohorts showed a lower multimorbidity burden over time (β = 0.631-0.777). The burden of multimorbidity was influenced by gender (female), residence (urban), region (eastern of China), and smoking history.

Conclusion
Our findings revealed that the higher burden of multimorbidity among the Chinese oldest-old individuals has shifted from the older birth cohorts to the more recent ones, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive policies promoting healthy ageing and early intervention measures.
SOCIAL ISOLATION, LONELINESS, AND THE LIVING ARRANGEMENTS AND CONTEXTS OF OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Mauldin Rebecca , Li Lydia 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Many older adults and their caregivers are at risk for social isolation and loneliness, which carry substantial adverse effects for health and well-being. Researchers and practitioners recognize the need for tailored interventions to address the unique circumstances of individuals and groups experiencing social isolation and loneliness. One factor that should be considered is living arrangements (e.g., living alone or in residential care settings) or living contexts such as neighborhood environment. The papers presented in this symposium seek to advance research related to the role of living arrangements or contexts on the social isolation and loneliness of older adults. The first paper examines older adults living alone and without care partners with a scoping review related to their risks and vulnerabilities, the adverse consequences of this living situation; and related interventions. The second paper focuses on the social networks of older adults in an assisted living community and presents quasi-experimental findings of network changes associated with online nature-based group activity programming in assisted living. The third paper examines the role of perceived neighborhood disorder and social support in caregivers’ loneliness using data from the Health and Retirement Study to identify the association between neighborhood stressors, social support, and loneliness. The final paper presents findings from a mixed methods study examining the relationship between loneliness, living arrangements, and social support among caregivers of persons living with dementia. Overall, the symposium demonstrates ways in which living arrangements and contexts can be considered in research and practices with older adults and their caregivers.
MIDDLE-AGED AND OLDER CAREGIVERS’ LONELINESS AND NEIGHBORHOOD DISORDER: THE BUFFERING ROLE OF SOCIAL SUPPORT
Authors: Cho Seungjong 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This presentation aims to explore the relationship between perceived neighborhood disorder and loneliness among middle-aged and older (age 50+) caregivers using the 2018 Health and Retirement Study (N = 578). It also identifies the role of social support as a buffer. The association between perceived neighborhood disorder, social support, and loneliness is an emerging area of research, especially for middle-aged and older caregivers. For statistical analysis, loneliness was measured as summed scores of 11 items asking how respondents felt about different aspects of their lives. Perceived neighborhood disorder was measured as summed scores of eight items of physical disorder and social disorder. Social support was measured as summed scores of 12 items asking about positive interactions with spouse/partner, children, relatives, and friends. A multiple regression model (Adjusted R-square =.296) showed that higher levels of perceived neighborhood disorder were associated with higher levels of loneliness (Beta =.222, p &lt;.001). Social support had no significant buffering effect on this association (Beta = -.024, p =.495). However, social support itself was significantly associated with loneliness in an anticipated direction (Beta = -.400, p &lt;.001). Among the covariates (gender, age, education, and self-rated health), only self-rated health was significantly related to loneliness (Beta = -.146, p &lt;.001). This study highlights the importance of identifying and managing loneliness and neighborhood stressors among this unique population with the power of social support from their spouse/partner, children, relatives, and friends.
DESIGNING FOR LATER LIFE: SOCIO-GERONTOLOGICAL INSIGHTS IN CONVERSATIONS WITH AGE-TECH EXPERTS
Authors: Katz Stephen 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This presentation summarizes original research data based on interview conversations with 11 international experts, consisting of designers, innovators and leaders in the gerontechnological field. Their experiences reveal important insights about the creation, production and distribution of care technologies for older adults, and how priorities are imagined for the future. Four main themes emerged from the research that point to a need for wider gerontological and sociological engagement. First, while the experts are aware of the increasing demand for technologies delivering monitoring, robotic, assistive, connective and mobility services, their socio-gerontological research about older adults on issues such as personal privacy is often limited. Second, the experts are challenged to recognize where ageist stereotypes of frailty and decline become scripted into their products. However, a clear protocol for avoiding negative imagery is not always available across age-tech enterprises, even as such imagery affects the appeal and promotion of their products. Third, the benefits of co-design and collaborate participation between designers and older users are not well understood, thus opportunities are lost to create age-friendly, affordable and livable products from the perspective of the users. Fourth, the conditions under which technologies become successful require the labor of care-givers, family members, residential staff and technical repair and maintenance technicians. Thus, understanding their roles should be an essential part of the design process. Conclusions advocate greater ties and co-learning amongst gerontologists, sociologists and age-tech experts, and attention to critical and grounded research on the material realities and challenges of technological adaptation for older adults.
THE MARGRET M. AND PAUL B. BALTES AWARD LECTURE AND PRESENTATION
Authors: Jarrott Shannon 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Margret M. and Paul B. Baltes Award Lecture will feature an address by the 2023 Baltes Award recipient, Reuben Ng, PhD of the National University of Singapore. This session will also include the presentation of the 2024 Margret M. and Paul B. Baltes Award to recipient Nicole E. Werner, PhD, of Indiana University. The Margret M. and Paul B. Baltes Foundation Award in Behavioral and Social Gerontology recognizes outstanding early-career contributions in behavioral and social gerontology. The award is generously funded by the Margret M. and Paul B. Baltes Foundation.
BUILDING RESILIENCE AND GRIT IN HIGHER EDUCATION’S OWN CLIMATE CRISIS
Authors: Burdick David , Ferri Christine 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Recently, the climate (& emotional ‘temperature’) and context for gerontology in higher education has never been a more difficult predicament. We will either be collateral damage from enrollment-based budget cuts, eroding societal respect for the value of a degree, and/or culture-war conflicts against DEI initiatives, or we could position ourselves to be embraced (by administration & others) as part of the solution (e.g., through advocacy of age-inclusive initiatives that may diversify enrollment and funding streams). This paper considers strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and perils for our work. After a brief discussion of the fraught macro/societal/secular context, we describe within our institutional context the 15-year experiences of the Stockton Center on Successful Aging (SCOSA). Founded in 2007 as a provost priority, seeking a “major center on aging,” an 8-person part-time staff now utilizes diverse funding streams to fulfill our research, education, and service mission. A changing institutional context has included administrative turnover (two deans, six provosts, and two presidents) and changing institutional priorities. With a wider lens, we’ll reassess past AGHE efforts of our lead author related to center/program survival in tough economic times (e.g., “Finding Funding” ‘99 & “What Works for Your Program/Department/Center” ‘10, AGHExchange columns, 2010 AGHE Reno Annual Meeting Pre-Conference Intensive with Gugliucci, and 3-year AGHE/GSA funding from the Retirement Research Foundation assisting AGHE to support programs & centers). As our first author passes the leadership torch to our second author upon his retirement after 40 years, we discuss the generational shift many other aging centers are also experiencing.
THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA OMAHA DEPARTMENT OF GERONTOLOGY: LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT 50 YEARS
Authors: Kelly Christopher 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In 2023, the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) Department of Gerontology celebrated its 50 year anniversary. Since 1973, the department has been the primary provider of gerontological education in the state, offering Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral degrees in gerontology. In this presentation, we will discuss how UNO Gerontology has grown its programs, particularly through partnerships with public and private stakeholders at the national, state, and local levels, in order to train the professionals who work with and on behalf of older Nebraskans. We will also describe how we expect these partnerships to evolve to meet the needs of our growing aging population.
THE VHA’S GERIATRIC SCHOLARS PROGRAM IMPACT ON DEVELOPING AND DISSEMINATING CLINICAL INNOVATIONS
Authors: Kramer B Josea , Howe Judith , Shaughnessy Marianne 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Geriatric Scholars Program is an enterprise-wide VA workforce development project that has resulted in significant clinical improvements and innovations in care of older Veterans. The program has invested in the interdisciplinary primary care workforce with discipline-specific core training in geriatrics and in quality improvement. Each of the more than 1500 Scholars to date implements a quality improvement project to demonstrate transfer of new knowledge and skills in the care of older Veterans. Ove 15,000 VHA clinical employees regularly participate in interdisciplinary webinars, team training workshops, practica, and self-directed learning opportunities. There are over 5000 users of the resource website, www.gerischolars.org. This symposium explores some of the direct impacts of continuing professional education on the clinical care of older Veterans. Several program components will be discussed, including replication in Indian Health Service clinics, outcomes for caregivers of older Veterans, practice change for geropsychologists, and how the program’s quality improvement mentored program for Geriatric Scholars enhances outcomes for patients in VHA. The Geriatric Scholars Program has 15 Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center (GRECC) partners in its network that have worked together for over 15 years to build capacity in the VHA healthcare workforce through innovative education and clinical approaches. The national GRECC Director in VHA will serve as discussant for what promises to be a lively exchange of ideas and opportunities for replication.
US INDIAN HEALTH SERVICE: DEVELOPING A COMMUNITY OF PRIMARY CARE CHAMPIONS FOR TRIBAL ELDER CARE
Authors: Crowder Jolie 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
As part of this symposium, the Indian Health Service (IHS) Alzheimer’s Grant Program reports on lessons learned during the first two pilot years of new geriatric workforce development initiatives. The IHS Alzheimer’s program partners with local IHS, Tribal, and Urban (I/T/U) health programs to address Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias (ADRD) among American Indian and Alaska Native people receiving care in the “Indian Health system.” The Indian Health Geriatric Scholars (GeriScholars) program, Geriatric Nurse Fellowship (GNF), and Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) aim to build capability in geriatric care and care for dementia within primary care and to develop a community of primary care champions for improved care for older American Indian and Alaska Native people. Adapted from the VA Geriatric Scholars program, the Indian Health Gerischolars and Nurse Fellowship pilots provide clinicians who are the mainstay workforce in our primary care delivery system with training and mentorship. The use of the ECHO model facilitates ongoing mentorship and training and sustains a community of practice with an emphasis on those with ADRD and caregivers. The programs aim to deepen individual clinical knowledge and skills in geriatric care and then apply newfound knowledge to improve care. Local assessment of needs and priorities for improving and integrating new skills and knowledge in ongoing primary care delivery are emphasized. Initiative planning and program improvements consider unique cultural contexts and disproportionate systems and resource constraints, and are designed to work in concert with other systems-focused efforts, including Alzheimer’s Models of Care grants.