bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Delivering a Group-Mediated Weight Loss and Activity Program to Older Adults With Chronic Pain in the MORPH Study
Authors: Fanning Jason , Brooks Amber , Nicklas Barbara , Rejeski W Jack 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Chronic pain in aging is a potent cause and consequence of obesity, inactivity, and prolonged sedentary behavior, making these especially important targets for behavioral intervention. This study aimed to refine a theory-based group-mediated diet and sedentary behavior intervention for older adults with chronic pain. Participants (N=28) attended 12 weekly group meetings generally in home via WebEx and used an mHealth self-monitoring app as they attempted to move more often and reduce caloric intake. Relative to a control condition, the program produced improvements in physical function (η^2=.08), pain intensity (η^2=.12), sedentary time (η^2=.07), and weight loss (η^2=.21). Key findings related to effective remote group intervention delivery included: (1) the importance of a self-efficacy-enhancing technology orientation; (2) the value of small group bonding activities to seed communication; and (3) the impact of software choice on interpersonal communication. We will discuss the value of these findings for future remote intervention design.
Linking Religious Identity, Participation, and Faith to Domains of Mental Health in Late Life
Authors: Kahana Eva , Dahal Poshan , Bhatta Tirth , Ermoshkina Polina 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Religiosity in late life has been linked to psychological well-being outcomes. However, there has been insufficient attention to complex associations between different domains of religiosity and domains of psychological wellbeing. We explored associations between religious identity, religious participation, religious coping (trust in God), and mental health indicators of depressive symptoms, life satisfaction, and positive/negative affect among 797 independent, retirement community-dwelling older adults. At baseline, religious identity (expressed as self- concept) and religious participation (church attendance) each were associated with fewer depressive symptoms (b=-0.47, p&lt;0.05; b=-0.19, p&lt;0.05). Religious identity, however, was significantly associated with both life satisfaction and positive affects but not with negative affect. Religious coping was associated with greater life satisfaction and positive affect. Our longitudinal analysis documented a statistically significant decline in depressive symptoms, and increase in life satisfaction and positive affect, with corresponding increase in religious identity over time. However, changes in religious identity did not lead to significant changes in negative affect over time. Religious coping and church attendance fully explained the influence of religious identity on changes in life satisfaction. Although the influence of religious identity on depressive symptoms and positive affect was weakened, its significant influence was maintained even after the consideration of religious coping and church attendance. Beyond religious identity, we also observed a significant increase in positive affect with a corresponding increase in religious coping. Overall, our findings support expectations that religious identification and practices are associated with greater psychological well-being among community dwelling old- old adults.
COVID-19, Older People’s Alcohol Use and Engagement With Support: A Rapid Evidence Synthesis
Authors: Bareham Bethany , Kaner Eileen , Spencer Liam , O'Keefe Hannah , Hanratty Barbara 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
COVID-19, and associated restrictions, have likely impacted older people’s alcohol use and related support needs, given disrupted routines and stress increase alcohol use in older populations. This rapid evidence synthesis aimed to examine older people’s (aged 50+) alcohol use, and engagement with alcohol support services during COVID-19. Seventy-six articles were identified through systematic database searches, reporting 63 survey, five qualitative, three pilot, and five hospital admission studies; of general and service-user populations of older drinkers. Data were drawn together through narrative synthesis. Alcohol use increased for up to 32% of older people, including service-users; particularly older women. Increased use was linked to anxiety, depression and emotional distress. Decreased use was more common in some older populations; particularly Mediterranean. Barriers such as web access and safe transport affected older service-users’ engagement with support. Support to address hazardous alcohol use amongst older people must be prioritised in wake of the pandemic.
The Intersection of Cancer, Geriatrics, and Gerontology: A Multidisciplinary Approach Across the Cancer Continuum
Authors: Krok-Schoen Jessica 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Despite the majority of cancer survivors being older adults, the connection between oncology, geriatrics, and gerontology remains unexplored. Our symposium will provide insights across the cancer continuum from prevention through survivorship as well as a comprehensive view of the connection between gerontological and geriatric factors in oncology. Specifically, we will discuss the biopsychosocial and behavioral factors among older adults with cancer, their effect on health outcomes, and how researchers and clinicians can intervene to improve health outcomes. The first abstract by Dr. Cadet found that despite a lack of knowledge of options and harms of cancer screening among older adults with low health literacy, there was a desire to understand more to better their health. The second abstract by Dr. Bhattacharyya found that older patients with cancer experience high levels of social isolation, loneliness, and fear that are heightened by individual and technology-based barriers to telehealth. The third abstract by Dr. Carroll found that breast cancer survivors with good sleep quality had less accelerated biological aging than those with sleep problems. The fourth abstract by Dr. Krok-Schoen utilized one of the largest datasets of older women, the Women’s Health Initiative, and found multiple gerontological and geriatric factors associated with physical activity among older female cancer survivors. Closing this symposium is Dr. Guida, a Program Director at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), who will profile the current research efforts, programmatic priorities, and current funding in aging and cancer. These multidisciplinary researchers and clinicians will provide a comprehensive symposium regarding geriatric oncology.
Policy Series: The Older Americans Act, the Aging Network, and the Pandemic
Authors: Lindberg Brian 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This session provides insights into how the pandemic challenged the capabilities and ingenuity of the Older Americans Act (OAA) programs and the aging network and what it means for in-home and community aging services now and in the future. Speakers will include key aging network stakeholders, who will discuss the overnight evolution of programs serving often isolated older adults.
Promoting Connections Through Creative Approaches to Research Engagement for Older African Americans
Authors: Perry Tam , Mitchell Jamie , Key Kent , Rorai Vanessa , Knurek Sean , Lichtenberg Peter 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This presentation will feature innovative retention approaches that contributed to sustaining connections to older Black participants in the long-standing Healthier Black Elders Center (HBEC). The HBEC aims to address and reduce health disparities through research and education. In 2020, this outreach has included a telephone outreach program and a weekly social group, “The Party Line,” to promote connections and collect data on mental health, coping mechanisms and newly acquired skills, as well as health care access including access to masks, testing and tele-health. The presentation will also describe tailored approaches to initiating a Community Advisory Board and programming in Flint, MI and creative efforts to retain participants in Detroit, MI, thus ensuring the relationships between researchers and older community members are sustained despite program modifications.
Evolution of Natural Lifespan Variation and Molecular Strategies of Extended Lifespan
Authors: Kaya Alaattin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
To understand the genetic basis and the selective forces acting on longevity, it is useful to employ ecologically diverse individuals of the same species, widely different in lifespan. This way, we may capture the experiment of Nature that modifies the genotype arriving at different lifespans. Here, we analyzed 76 ecologically diverse wild yeast isolates and discovered wide diversity of lifespan. We sequenced the genomes of these organisms and analyzed how their replicative lifespan is shaped by nutrients and transcriptional and metabolite patterns. By identifying genes, proteins and metabolites that correlate with longevity across these isolates, we found that long-lived strains elevate intermediary metabolites, differentially regulate genes involved in NAD metabolism and adjust control of epigenetic landscape through conserved, rare histone modifier. Our data further offer insights into the evolution and mechanisms by which caloric restriction regulates lifespan by modulating the availability of nutrients without decreasing fitness.
Challenges of Implementing the PRISM 2.0 Clinical Trial With Assisted Living and Impaired Participants
Authors: Sharit Joseph , Czaja Sara , Moxley Jerad , Almirola Carlos 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The PRISM 2.0 clinical trial examined the benefits of a software system, implemented on a computer tablet, which was designed to support access to information, engagement, and social connectivity among older people. Participants across three sites were recruited from rural locations, senior living housing facilities, and assisted living facilities (ALFs) and correspondingly randomized into either the Prism or control (tablet computer without the PRISM system) conditions. In this talk, we focus on the challenges associated with including ALF participants at key stages of the trial. These stages included telephone prescreening, baseline assessment, training on the system, and 6-, 9-, and 12-month follow-up assessments. Inability to meet inclusion criteria related to cognitive and sensory-motor considerations was a common problem, as was the ability to sustain attention during the training sessions. Recommendations for recruitment and retaining older adults in ALFs for these types of studies will be offered.
Haplogroups of Mitochondrial DNA Differentiate Patterns of Cognitive Change Over 7 Years
Authors: Watts Amber , Michaelis Elias , Swerdlow Russell 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) may play an important role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and cognitive decline. A particular haplogroup of mtDNA (haplogroup J), has been observed more commonly in patients with AD than in cognitively normal controls. We used mtDNA haplogroups to predict change in cognitive performance over seven years. We hypothesized that haplogroup J would predict poorer cognitive function and steeper cognitive decline. We analyzed data from 140 cognitively normal older adults (age 65+) who participated in the University of Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Center annual registry. We used factor analysis to create three composite scores (verbal memory, attention, executive function) from 11 individual cognitive tests. We performed latent growth curve modeling to describe trajectories of cognitive performance and change. We compared haplogroup H, the most common, to haplogroup J, the potential risk group. Results indicated haplogroup J carriers had significantly lower baseline performance (B=-.049, p&lt; .01) and slower rates of improvement (B=-.046, p &lt; .05) on tests of verbal memory compared to haplogroup H. For executive function, groups did not differ at baseline (B=.065, p&gt;.10), but haplogroup J had slower rates of improvement (B=-.097, p &lt; .01). There were no differences in attention across groups in performance (B=.135, p&gt;.10) or change (B=-.01, p&gt;.10). Our results reinforce the important role of mtDNA in changes to cognitive function with aging and imply that the effects of haplogroup J may vary across cognitive domains. Future research should investigate the mechanisms by which mtDNA might affect performance on specific cognitive domains across haplogroups.
Pilot Testing of the Promoting Positive Care Interactions (PPCI) in Assisted Living Study During a Pandemic
Authors: Paudel Anju , Galik Elizabeth , Resnick Barbara , Doran Kelly , Boltz Marie , Zhu Shijun 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of Promoting Positive Care Interactions (PPCI)—a four step intervention designed to establish positive care interactions between staff and residents with cognitive impairment or dementia in Assisted Living (AL). Initially designed as a traditional on-site intervention, PPCI was later transformed to be conducted remotely through webinar and virtual meetings due to challenges related to onsite engagement in AL during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the study adopted shorter timeline, a single group pretest-posttest design, and limited recruitment to staff only; 17 care staff were recruited, and data was collected via online surveys and interviews. PPCI was successfully implemented as intended with considerable stakeholder engagement. Findings demonstrated feasibility and promising staff adoption of PPCI. Continued research is needed to optimize the quality of care interactions in AL and evaluate whether online approach to staff training can change staff behavior.
Childhood Physical Abuse Casts a Very Long Shadow: Physical and Mental Illness Among Older Adults
Authors: Fuller-Thomson Esme , Buhrmann Anna S 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
A burgeoning literature indicates adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with chronic illness. Most research, to date, has not focused on health outcomes among older adults. The objectives of the current study were to identify the prevalence and adjusted odds of two mental health and six physical health conditions among survivors of childhood physical abuse (CPA) who were aged 60 and older (n=409) in comparison to their peers who had not been physically abused (n=4,659). Data were drawn from a representative sample of older British Columbians in the Canadian Community Health Survey. Logistic regression analyses took into account sex, race, age, immigration status, marital status, education, income, smoking, obesity, binge drinking and number of other ACEs. For 3 health outcomes, CPA survivors had adjusted odds ratio more than twice that of their peers (Anxiety OR=2.22; 95% CI=1.46, 3.38; Depression OR=2.17; 95% CI=1.57, 3.01; COPD OR=2.03; 95% CI=1.40, 2.94). For CPA survivors, the adjusted odds ratios were more than 50% higher for cancer (OR=1.71; 95% CI=1.31, 2.24), migraine (OR=1.67; 95% CI=1.15, 2.45) and debilitating chronic pain (OR=1.58; 95% CI=1.22, 2.03), and 33% higher for arthritis (OR=1.33; 95% CI=1.05, 1.69). CPA was not significantly associated with either heart disease or diabetes (p&gt;.05). The association between CPA and two mental health and four physical health outcomes remained significant, even after controlling for sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviors and other ACEs. Further research is needed to investigate potential pathways through which childhood physical abuse is linked to a wide range of chronic later-life health problems.
Disruption to Transformation: Aging in the New Normal: NIA Session for Early-Career Researchers
Authors: Kelley Melinda , Kelley Melinda 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) at the National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, supports biomedical and behavioral research with a lifespan focus. NIA research seeks to understand the basic processes of aging, improve prevention and treatment of diseases in later life, improve the health of older persons, in addition to a focus on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The NIA also supports the training and career development of scientists focusing on aging research and the development of research resources. This symposium, meant for junior faculty and emerging scholars, will provide an update on the latest research findings from the NIA followed by a segment on funding mechanisms and strategies.
A Web-Based Self-Management Intervention for Veterans With Chronic Conditions and Their Caregivers: A Pilot Study
Authors: Trivedi Ranak , Plummer Katherine , Suresh Madhuvanthi , Risbud Rashmi , Humber Marika , Zulman Donna , Timko Christine , Piette John 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Web-based Self-management Using Collaborative Coping Enhancement in Diseases (Web-SUCCEED) is a dyadic intervention for patients and their caregivers designed to improve self-management through improving dyadic stress coping, dyadic relationships, and positive emotions. Veterans Affairs (VA) patients with one or more chronic conditions and positive screen for self-management distress were recruited with their informal caregiver from VA Palo Alto. Of the 17 patients and 16 caregivers recruited (62.3% of eligible), 8 patients and 8 caregivers (48.5%) completed the intervention and assessments. Twelve participants withdrew mostly citing the stress of the pandemic as their reason; 5 did not respond to multiple outreach efforts. Veterans were 66□18 y and caregivers were 58□16 y. Veterans and caregivers who completed the program rated it high on usability and acceptability. Pre-post t-tests across a psychosocial battery did not reveal significant differences; results were limited by incomplete post-intervention data. Further testing with modified retention strategies is recommended.
One Possible Consequence of COVID-19 Vaccine: Inequitable Distribution
Authors: Garrow George 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Primary Health Network (PHN) is the largest Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Pennsylvania expanding over 17 counties. Getting Pennsylvanians vaccinated is a critical step in reducing the spread and impact of COVID-19, although research suggests that the inequitable distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine may be a critical barrier. Although concerns regarding vaccine hesitancy are prevalent, experts also suggest that disparities in vaccination rates are in part due to the lack of accessible scheduling; adversely affecting underserved, such as rural communities, and minority populations. To address these obstacles, Primary Health Network is creating a COVID-19 Vaccination/Health Equity Team. Their objectives include: creating tools to provide comprehensive information on vaccine supply, identifying potential challenges and proactively planning for ways to mitigate likely disparities, identifying people who wish to be vaccinated but lack the means to do so, and connecting them in an equitable way, to vaccinations.
The Experience of Family Members in Long-Term Care Facilities During the SARS COV2 (COVID-19) Pandemic
Authors: LeBlanc Raeann , Park Hyeyoung 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
In-person visits are one form of care support offered by family members for residents in a Long-term Care Facility (LTCF). Family member visitation may extend to close social relationships with the residential care staff, which can be important in managing care. The long-term care population has been significantly impacted by a high number of SARS-COV2 (Covid-19) cases in morbidity and mortality but, in-person visits were limited due the public health concern. This study aimed to describe the experience of family members of persons in LTCFs during the Covid-19 pandemic. We used an online survey of 34 questions. Forty-six family members were recruited through online caregiver support platforms, and 22 completed the survey. Average participant age was 57. Majority were female with high-moderate (M=3.48) Kessler psychological distress scores. Participants reported less frequent communication with their family members in LTCFs. Difficult to reach nursing staff, who were the primary contact, was a concern. Their preferred means of communication was the telephone followed by window visits; residents preference remained for in-person visits followed by telephone. Participants described a decrease in relationship closeness with staff and a decrease in confidence in the quality of care. These results, limited by sample size, offer a beginning insight into the importance of communication between the family member and nursing staff, including the contact frequency. Structural disparities such as LTCF nursing staff levels may partly explain these deficits in supporting families during the Covid-19 pandemic. Opportunities to support family members remain a needed focus of long-term care reforms.
Sleep and Health in Older Adults: New Research From Early-Career Investigators
Authors: Kaufmann Christopher , Berkley Amy 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Sleep and circadian patterns change as people age and are linked to a number of health and psychosocial outcomes. As such, there is a need to continue generating new knowledge about sleep in older adults by encouraging early-career scientists to research this topic. In this symposium, sponsored by the Sleep, Circadian Rhythms and Aging Interest Group, we will showcase studies by early-career researchers at the masters through junior faculty level who conduct work in sleep and its impact on health outcomes in older adults. Our symposium will have five presentations. The first will examine how sleep and loneliness may mediate relationships between marital quality and depressive symptoms. The second study will assess links between personality characteristics and objectively measured chronotype. Our third presentation will determine the longitudinal association of sleep duration with body mass index. The fourth will evaluate how an intervention to reduce functional disability in low-income older adults impacts sleep quality. Finally, our fifth presentation will focus on understanding how sleep duration and changes in sleep patterns may impact speech-in-noise performance. Overall, our symposium will highlight multidisciplinary studies of sleep and health outcomes that are of importance to older populations and promote the work of the next generation of sleep, circadian rhythms, and aging scientists.