bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Design Thinking as a Method for Developing Caregiver (and Other) Interventions
Authors: Aflatoony Leila , Perkins Molly , Waldrop Drenna , Hepburn Kenneth 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
“Design Thinking,” an innovative, human-centric approach to problem-solving, seeks to ensure that design efforts “solve the right problem.” This presentation describes the Design Thinking process and illustrates its use in the context of three design studio sessions with of family caregivers of patients at the Integrated Memory Care Clinic (IMCC), a comprehensive medical home for persons living with dementia. The Design Thinking process entails five steps – Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, Test – that engage consumers/end-users to identify, as precisely as possible, the issues or concerns that are most important to them and to further identify the possible solutions that seem to most fully address these concerns. The process can be described as one of divergent and convergent thinking. In the first session, the Empathize phase, IMCC caregivers were asked to think as broadly as possible about needs not being met by IMCC. These topics were reviewed more convergently in the second session, the Define phase; here the participants agreed on a shorter, prioritized list of needs to be addressed. In the third session (that combined the Ideate and pre-Prototype stages), participants identified 14 topics (interventions) they felt should be included in this program. Finally, in the Test phase, they assessed the topics and agreed that the most important need IMCC could address would be to provide a comprehensive orientation program for new caregivers. IMCC clinicians concurred with the salience of the problem to be solved and saw addressing it as contributing substantially to the improvement of IMCC clinical care.
Friendship and Loneliness Among People Living With Dementia: Toward Community and Shared Humanity
Authors: Gan Daniel R Y , Chaudhury Habib , Mann Jim 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
An increasing number of people living with dementia (PLWD) age in community. In North America, this number ranges from 61-81% of the total number of PLWD. As many as one in three PLWD do not live with a care partner. Since most PLWD do not drive, many may spend a significant proportion of time within half a mile of their homes. Yet, the neighbourhood may or may not provide “ways of being in the world that are more accepting and embracing of the kinds of disruptions that dementia can produce” (Hillman & Latimer, 2017). To support continued social participation, meaningful everyday networks are required. PLWD and care partners may identify more or less strongly with a community depending on their position in the network, its spaces, and activities. According to Nancy (1991), “community” has been conjured as an antidote to the loneliness of the human condition, which explains its allure. In response, Costello (2014) argued that “community” requires one to constantly try and “fall short” in caring for another’s changing experiences. The value of a community thus depends on the quality of its friendships – the ability of otherwise lonely individuals to empathize – which may be threatened by challenges to PLWD’s personhood. This symposium brings together expertise in community gerontology, philosophy, and neuropsychology to advance current conceptualizations of personhood in community amid cognitive decline. These will be discussed in relation to lived experiences, with the aim to inform future research and practice of dementia care and prevention in community.
Testing the John Henryism Hypothesis on Cardiometabolic Health Among Older African Americans
Authors: Jiang Yanping , Gómez Jennifer , Rodriguez-Stanley Jacqueline , Zilioli Samuele 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
In the context of racism, the John Henryism Hypothesis posits that prolonged high-effort coping, which is referred to as John Henryism, may take a toll on physical health among individuals from low socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds, particularly low SES African Americans. This study aimed to test the John Henryism Hypothesis among older African Americans by examining the combined effect of John Henryism and childhood SES on cardiometabolic health indexed by metabolic syndrome and systemic inflammation. Data were drawn from a sample of 170 urban older African Americans (Mage = 67.4 years, 75.9% female), who completed questionnaires assessing John Henryism and childhood SES (i.e., parental education). Blood pressure, waist circumference, and fasting blood were also collected to assess metabolic syndrome and systemic inflammation. Results indicated that John Henryism was significantly associated with elevated metabolic syndrome symptoms among older African Americans reporting low childhood SES (b = 0.42, 95%CI = [0.02, 0.83]), but not among those with high childhood SES (b = -0.33, 95%CI = [-0.78, 0.13]). This result was robust to a variety of demographic variables, lifestyle behavioral factors, and health conditions that are known to be associated with metabolic syndrome. A similar pattern of results, however, did not emerge for systemic inflammation. Our findings highlight the importance of considering the joint impact of early childhood socioeconomic backgrounds and individual psychological proclivities in explaining the elevated cardiovascular disease risk among older African Americans.
An Integrative Approach to Promoting Wellness in Older Adults: An Online Undergraduate Course
Authors: Majeski Robin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
As gerontology and geriatric programs look to grow their connections with health and allied health areas, examining emerging health care areas is important. Thus, this session will present key concepts and pedagogical strategies from an innovative online undergraduate course, An Integrative Approach to Promoting Wellness in Older Adults, that is taught in the Erickson School at the University of Maryland at Baltimore County. The course brings together a conventional western allopathic approach and a holistic, patient-centered, integrative approach which includes complementary therapies, to promote wellness in older adults. Specifically, the session will present a comparison of the philosophical premises of conventional western and integrative approaches to health promotion. It will present a holistic model of health, an overview of the effectiveness and safety of different complementary therapies, and examples of how an integrative approach with conventional western and complementary therapies can be used in to promote health in older adults with particular chronic conditions. Also, a discussion of the incorporation of diversity content in the course, an integrative approach to health promotion for underserved populations, and specific pedagogical strategies used to facilitate learning in synchronous and asynchronous online learning environments are included. Session presentation techniques include a PowerPoint presentation, demonstration of examples of conventional western and integrative approaches to health promotion in older adults through case studies, and audience participation.
Keeping Intergenerational Programming Alive During the Pandemic Through Collaboration and Technology
Authors: Leedahl Skye , Estus Erica , Taylor Catherine 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The University of Rhode Island Cyber-Seniors’ in-person intergenerational programming was quickly shut down during the Spring 2020 semester due to the pandemic. Since then, we have worked diligently and collaboratively with partners to offer creative intergenerational options for university students and older adults living in the community. We partnered with Age-Friendly RI and the Census Outreach to provide phone-based wellness checks to 11,500 older adults, and this evolved into a statewide weekly call with partners (n=34 calls) focused on reducing social isolation for older adults. Our students moved to offering phone or Zoom-based appointments with 21 community organizations across Rhode Island and became mentors for the new Cyber-Seniors ® organization digital offerings (n=90 students). In this presentation, we will share our experiences with the pivot from in-person to mostly technology-based interactions. We will discuss challenges and lessons learned, some of which will be retained regardless of the pandemic situation.
Person- and Task-Centered Mealtime Care: Impact on Positive, Neutral, and Challenging Behaviors in People With Dementia
Authors: Liu Wen , Williams Kristine , Batchelor Melissa , Perkhounkova Yelena , Hein Maria 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Mealtime is an important daily activity to ensure intake. Person-centered and task-centered care may influence individual positive, neutral, and challenging mealtime behaviors. Yet, little work has fully examined their relationships. This study aimed to examine the association between person-centered and task-centered care approaches and individuals’ positive, neutral, and challenging mealtime behaviors. This secondary analysis of 110 videotaped mealtime observations involved 29 staff and 25 residents with dementia (42 unique staff-resident dyads) in 9 nursing homes. Videos were coded using the refined Cue Utilization and Engagement in Dementia mealtime video-coding scheme. Logistic regression models were fit to four dependent variables representing resident mealtime behaviors: 1) positive/neutral behaviors (nonverbal), 2) positive utterances (verbal), 3) functional impairments (nonverbal), and 4) resistive behaviors (verbal and nonverbal). Independent variables were staff person-centered care modifications (nonverbal), person-centered utterances (verbal), and task-centered behaviors (verbal and nonverbal). Covariates included resident age, gender, eating function, and video duration. Resident positive utterances were associated with staff person-centered care utterances (OR =1.38, 95% CI = 1.09,1.76). Resident functional impairments were associated with staff person-centered care modifications (OR=1.33, 95% CI=1.02, 1.74) and fewer staff person-centered utterances (OR=0.81, 95% CI=0.66, 1.00). Resident resistive behaviors were associated with more staff person-centered utterances (OR=1.65, 95% CI=1.18, 2.31). Findings provided preliminary information supporting the role of staff person-centered care on resident positive and challenging mealtime behaviors. Findings inform use of verbal and nonverbal person-centered care strategies to improve positive communication and reduce challenging behaviors during mealtime in people with dementia.
LGBTQIA+ Caregiving and Care Needs of Persons Living With Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias
Authors: Flatt Jason , Wharton Whitney , Anderson Joel 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and/or asexual (LGBTQIA+) older adults are a growing population. LGBTQIA+ persons living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) face unique challenges in terms of accessing care and support compared with their non-LGBTQIA+ counterparts. The care challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ people living with ADRD may be compounded by the fact they are more likely to be single, more likely to live alone, and less likely to have children. Several studies have started to explore the unique needs of LGBTQIA+ caregivers and persons living with ADRD. In this symposium, we highlight current research addressing the psychosocial and health-related needs of LGBTQIA+ caregivers and persons living with ADRD. Two presentations address psychosocial factors and health among LGBTQIA+ caregivers of persons with ADRD. Krystal Kittle will present analyses using population-based data on LGBTQIA+ caregivers in terms of caregiving burden and mental health. Shana Stites will present results from the Health and Retirement Study highlighting differences among same-sex spouses in terms of caregiving patterns and research participation. Next, Ethan Cicero will present prevalence estimates of care needs and challenges among diverse transgender adults living with memory problems. Finally, we will highlight a promising intervention for LGBTQIA+ caregivers of persons with ADRD. Jason Flatt will describe the adaptation and feasibility of the Savvy Caregiver program for LGBTQIA+ caregivers. Joel Anderson, an expert in LGBTQIA+ caregiving for persons with ADRD, will facilitate a conversation about these results and place them in the context of current LGBTQIA+ and ADRD research.
Association Between Post-Traumatic Stress and Depression Among Older Puerto Ricans: How Does Loneliness Matter?
Authors: Wang Kaipeng , Cuevas Adolfo , Zhang Anao , De Fries Carson , Hinton Ladson , Falcón Luis 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Puerto Ricans have a significantly higher prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than other racial and ethnic groups. PTSD can lead to co-morbid depression, which exacerbates the risk for compromised mental and physical health among older adults. Loneliness, a robust indicator of poor social support, is likely to worsen the dysphoric symptoms of PTSD and increase the risks of depression. However, few studies have focused on the moderating role of loneliness on the association between post-traumatic stress and depression. This study examines the association between post-traumatic stress and depression and whether such an association differs by loneliness among older Puerto Ricans. Data were collected from 304 Puerto Ricans aged 60-81 living in the Greater Boston area who responded to questionnaires in a survey. We used ordinary least squares regression to examine the association between post-traumatic stress, loneliness, and depression. We found that post-traumatic stress was significantly associated with higher levels of depression; however, the association was contingent on experiences of loneliness. The association between post-traumatic stress and depression was stronger for those experiencing a higher degree of loneliness. Findings underscored the role that loneliness plays in exacerbating the risk of developing co-morbid PTSD and depression among older Puerto Ricans. In working with older Puerto Ricans experiencing post-traumatic stress, it is important for mental health professionals to incorporate the assessment of loneliness and to prevent and reduce co-morbid depression by addressing loneliness through improving social skills, enhancing social support, and reducing maladaptive social cognition.
Universal DNA Methylation Age Across Mammalian Tissues
Authors: Ake Lu Viviana Perez , Fei Zhe , Raj Ken , Horvath Steve 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Aging is often perceived as a degenerative process caused by random accrual of cellular damage over time. In spite of this, age can be accurately estimated by epigenetic clocks based on DNA methylation profiles from almost any tissue of the body. Since such pan-tissue epigenetic clocks have been successfully developed for several different species, it is difficult to ignore the likelihood that a defined and shared mechanism instead, underlies the aging process. To address this, we generated over 10,000 methylation arrays, each profiling up to 37,000 cytosines in highly-conserved stretches of DNA, from over 59 tissue-types derived from 128 mammalian species. From these, we identified and characterized specific cytosines, whose methylation levels change with age across mammalian species. Genes associated with these cytosines are greatly enriched in mammalian developmental processes and implicated in age-associated diseases. From the methylation profiles of these age-related cytosines, we successfully constructed three highly accurate universal mammalian clocks for eutherians, and one universal clock for marsupials. The universal clocks for eutherians are similarly accurate for estimating ages (r&gt;0.96) of any mammalian species and tissue with a single mathematical formula. Collectively, these new observations support the notion that aging is indeed evolutionarily conserved and coupled to developmental processes across all mammalian species - a notion that was long-debated without the benefit of this new and compelling evidence.
Self-Reported Discrimination, Resilience, and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life Among Older Chinese Americans
Authors: Mao Weiyu , Wu Bei , Chi Iris , Yang Wei , Dong XinQi 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
There is a lack of empirical evidence on self-reported discrimination and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). Further, the mechanism linking the two constructs is not well understood. This study aimed to examine the relationship between self-reported discrimination and OHRQoL and investigate resilience as a mediator in such a relationship among foreign-born older Chinese Americans. Data came from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago collected between 2017 and 2019. The working sample included 3,054 foreign-born Chinese Americans (60+ years of age). Mediation analysis was conducted to examine the direct and indirect pathways towards OHRQoL. Self-reported discrimination was directly and indirectly associated with poorer OHRQoL. Resilience mediated the relationship between self-reported discrimination and OHRQoL. Specifically, individuals experienced discrimination reported weaker resilience, and subsequently, reported poorer OHRQoL. Findings illustrate the importance of studying self-reported discrimination in relation to OHRQoL and further identify resilience as an intermediary pathway to promote OHRQoL.
Changes in Job Quality as People Work Beyond Pensionable Age in Sweden
Authors: Sacco Lawrence , Cahill Kevin , Westerlund Hugo , Platts Loretta 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This paper uses data from the biennial Swedish Longitudinal Occupational Survey of Health to examine changes in job quality among older workers, controlling for work intensity and employment characteristics. Job quality outcomes included job satisfaction and physical (dangerous, strenuous or unpleasant work) and psychosocial (job strain, effort-reward imbalance, work time control) working conditions. First difference estimation was used to analyze within-individual changes in job quality, as well as changes in hours, employment characteristics (shifting to a non-permanent contract, the private sector and self-employment) and health. Individuals who worked beyond pensionable age experienced statistically significant improvements in job quality, with larger improvements among those who reduced working hours and shifted from permanent to non-permanent contracts, from the public into the private sector, and from wage-and-salary to self-employment. We conclude that work beyond pensionable age is a distinctive period characterized by employment that becomes more flexible and rewarding and less stressful.
A Pandemic Paradox: Innovations in Psychological Resiliency and Suicide Prevention in Older Adults
Authors: Heisel Marnin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial negative impact on the health and well-being of older adults, a demographic with the highest proportion of fatalities in North America. Long-term care and retirement homes have been especially hard hit. Sheltering in place can increase social isolation among older adults and contribute to feelings of stigmatization, burden, stress, anxiety, anger, and despair. As older adults also account for high rates of suicide, fear of infection, reduced access to professional and social supports, and growing apathy, hopelessness, and social isolation could amplify suicide risk (see Zortea et al., 2020). The speaker will discuss how his program of research on psychological resiliency and suicide prevention in older adults has pivoted online over the past year, and how the pandemic has paradoxically inspired innovative approaches to research, education, clinical practice, and social advocacy for older adults that will likely continue well beyond the present time.
Social Connections: Transformative Experiences Amid Disruptive Times
Authors: Cudjoe Thomas 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Today many older adults are experiencing intensified social isolation and loneliness as they attempt to “stay safe at home.” The notion, is a stark contrast from our understanding of the importance of social connections on health and well-being. This session highlights: first hand experiences caring for older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic and the implications of social isolation on the health of older adults. The speaker will offer perspectives for ESPO members on the role of community engagement in orienting research agendas, both now (amid the pandemic) and into the future.
The Impact of COVID-19 and Associated Restrictions on Physical Activity Among Assisted Living Residents
Authors: Galik Elizabeth , Resnick Barbara , McPherson Rachel 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
COVID-19 and associated restrictions significantly impacted residents in assisted living (AL) communities. This was a descriptive study of 35 AL communities that were participating in an implementation trial of Function Focused Care for Assisted Living Residents with Dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic. Within twelve months of the COVID-19 pandemic, 18% of the AL communities had at least one resident who was positive for COVID-19. Almost half of the ALs allowed health care providers into the setting. All of the ALs facilitated family visits outside and by telephone and technology, but only 11% allowed visitors inside the community. Over 50% stopped using recreational supplies to encourage physical activity and 28% reported that residents experienced more behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. Restrictions designed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 may have negatively impacted resident behavior and the AL staff’s engagement of residents in physical and recreational activities during the pandemic.
Features of Rural Communities in Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa That Influence Well-Being of Older Persons
Authors: Curreri Nereide , Banda Andrew , Keating Norah , Hoffman Jaco , Parodi Jose 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
In their recent volume, Critical Rural Gerontology, Skinner et al (2021) challenge us to set aside unidimensional notions of rural communities as bypassed vs very supportive; and to identify the elements of rurality that empower or exclude older people and how these differ across cultures and settings. Covid-19 has highlighted the need for safe and inclusive communities. Given that LMIC will be home to the majority of older adults (Gonzales et al. 2015), we undertook a scoping review of features of rural communities that influence wellbeing of older people in countries across Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa. The review included literature in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese, using search engines MEDLINE, CINAHL Complete, PsycInfo, SocINDEX, SciELO, AJOL (Africa Journals Online), LILACS, Redalyc, LatinIndex and Clacso. Findings illustrate diversity in how community features including remoteness, infrastructure and belonging influence material, social and subjective wellbeing of older residents.