bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Self-Reported Frailty Concerns in Older Breast Cancer Survivors During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Crouch Adele , Von Ah Diane 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Frailty among older adults is common, especially those who have undergone breast cancer treatment; however, we do not know how frailty among this group presented during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this descriptive, cross-sectional study was to examine self-reported frailty among older breast cancer survivors (BCS) during the pandemic. This IRB-approved study recruited BCS who were at least 1-year post-treatment and 60 years of age or older, via online advertisements (e.g., Dr. Susan Love Foundation). BCS completed demographic and Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI) RedCap questionnaires from 11/2020 to 05/2021. The TFI, is a 15-item measure with 3 sub-scales with published cut points indicating frailty: total (5), physical (3), psychological (2), and social (2). Descriptive statistics were used. Older BCS (n=203) who were on average 65.5 (SD=4.7) years of age, white (93.6%; n=190) and had stage II breast cancer at diagnosis (39.9%; n=81) participated. The average total (M=5.4, SD=2.5) and physical (M=3.2, SD=1.5) frailty scores were above the threshold for frailty. Overall, 58.6% (n=119) and 63.1% (n=128) scored at or above the threshold on the total and physical sub-scales, respectively. In addition,78.8% (n=160) responded that they ‘missed having people around’ on the social frailty sub-scale. Research has shown that higher TFI scores (more frailty) are associated with increased healthcare utilization, poorer quality of life, and even mortality. Thus, frailty among older BCS is an important health concern within the context of the pandemic. Further research is needed to understand the lasting effects of self-reported frailty for BCS including COVID-19 survivors.
Shoulder Function and Fatty Infiltration on MRI in Older Adults During Rehabilitation for Rotator Cuff Tear
Authors: Davis Derik , Almardawi Ranyah , Awan Omer , Lo Lawrence , Ahmed Sagheer , Jubouri Shams , Gullapalli Rao 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Rotator cuff tear is highly prevalent in older adults, with supraspinatus tendon tear (STT) the most common. Shoulder rehabilitation is a major treatment strategy, but supraspinatus-muscle-fatty infiltration (FI) and shoulder function in older adults with rotator cuff tear primarily managed by physical therapy (PT) is inadequately documented. We tested the hypothesis that older adults receiving usual-care PT when stratified by supraspinatus tear-status differ in supraspinatus FI [by quantitative Dixon fat fraction (FF) and semi-quantitative Goutallier grade (GG) on MRI] and shoulder function [by the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (ASES-score)] over time. Longitudinal cohort study (pilot): adults 60-85 years, PT-cohort (n=15) and control-cohort (n=25). Participants completed both shoulder MRI and ASES survey at baseline and follow-up visits. Kruskal-Wallis test compared within cohort among 3 groups: no tear (no-STT), partial-thickness tear (pt-STT), full-thickness tear (ft-STT). Mann-Whitney U test compared equivalent groups between cohorts. Baseline PT-cohort groups differed for GG (p=0.033) [no tear, 0.50±0.50;pt-STT, 1.11±0.22;ft-STT, 1.50±0.50] without difference in age, BMI, comorbidity, or ASES-score. Baseline control-cohort groups differed for FF (p=0.034) [no-tear, 5.77%±1.16%;pt-STT, 7.14%±6.26%;ft-STT, 21.44%±10.44%], without difference in age, BMI, comorbidity, or ASES-score. Baseline no-tear groups for ASES-score (p=0.049) differed between cohorts: PT-cohort (58.87±8.21) versus control-cohort (83.98±21.89). Both cohorts showed no difference in Δ-FF or Δ-GG over time. PT-cohort groups differed for Δ-ASES-score over time (p=0.042)[no-tear, 16.65±4.69;pt-STT, -7.24±0.94;ft-STT, 4.48±3.45], but control-cohort groups did not (p&gt;0.050). Our results suggest differences exist for supraspinatus FI and self-reported shoulder function among older adults receiving PT for rotator cuff tear when stratified by supraspinatus tear-status.
Social Determinants of Health among Older Korean Immigrants in the United States: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lee Sojeong , Rizzo Victoria 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The visible impact of the SDoHs on health and behavioral health as well as health disparities among minority populations is heightened due to COVID-19. One group about which little is known in relation to SDoHs is the older Korean immigrant population in the U.S. To examine the impact of SDoHs on the health, mental health, and health care utilization, a systematic review of studies focused on SDoHs for this population was conducted. Using multiple indexing terms, databases were searched for articles published in English between January 1, 2011 and December 2020. Articles were included in the search if they examined social determinants of health of older Korean immigrants defined as foreign-born Koreans aged 60 or older who live in the United States regardless of citizenship or legal immigration status. A total of 1090 articles were identified in the search. A review of abstracts for inclusion criteria resulted in 118 articles for review. Seventy-one articles were excluded during the review process. A total of 47 articles met inclusion criteria and were evaluated. The review revealed that SDoHs, including education level, financial resources, access to health insurance, level of acculturation and level of social support, influenced cognitive status, depressive symptoms, health status and quality of life. These findings validate the need for interventions to address the social care needs of older Korean immigrants and can be used to identify the role of social workers in addressing the SDoHs that result in health disparities for older Korean immigrants.
The Growing Burden of Informal Caregivers During COVID-19
Authors: MacLeod Stephanie 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Caregiver burden has negative effects on health outcomes and quality of life. Meanwhile, safety protocols during the COVID-19 pandemic created immediate impacts on informal caregiving with increasing burden on family caregivers. Our primary purpose was to describe the impacts of the pandemic on caregiver burden among informal caregivers, and their sudden shift in roles as a result. This review describes emerging effects on various aspects of health and explores future directions to support informal caregivers. A streamlined search was conducted to fit the scope of this review, with key terms determined to identify relevant publications. Common research databases and mainstream resources were utilized. We focused on research published since March 2020 to align with the timing of the pandemic in the US. Early research suggests that the pandemic has worsened caregiver burden among informal family caregivers. Reported health impacts include greater stress, pain, depression, sleep problems, and irritability, decreased social connectedness and quality of life. Informal family caregivers face negative health outcomes and distress as a result of greater caregiver burden and intensity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Immediate solutions are needed to alleviate this growing burden and provide ongoing support. Future work should explore the potential of boosting positive resources such as resilience and purpose to ease caregiver burden.
Understanding Functional Mobility and Quality of Life Among Isolated Aging Population in the US
Authors: Dayrit Jessika , Pasatiempo Ana maria , Hitosis Kevin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background: Social isolation among older adults linked to serious health conditions. However, little is known if functional mobility among isolated aging adults impacts quality of life. Objectives: This study will examine the association between levels of functional mobilities and risks for developing depression, poor health status, and physical inactivity by controlling socioeconomic factors. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, using Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data 2017. Target population are over age 65 who are living alone (N=50,784). Outcome variables are depression, self-reported health status, and physical inactivity whereas main predictors are activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) controlling for gender, race, marital status, employment status, annual income, and educational level. Weight adjustment analysis and logistic regression were conducted. Results: Depression, self-reported poor health status, and physical inactivity are higher among isolated aging adults who have limitations with ADL/IADL. Specifically, those with difficulties concentrating/decision making (OR=3.62; CI=3.35-3.91) have higher chance of developing depression than those who do not have this limitation. Female are at risk for developing depression (OR=1.41-1.61; CI=1.51), yet they are likely to report for better health status (OR=1.54; CI=1.45-1.64) than males. Asian (OR=0.56; CI=0.39-0381), Black or African American (OR=0.54; CI=0.48-0.60) are less likely to be diagnosed with depressive disorder than White. Discussion/Recommendation: Physical and cognitive changes that come with aging can pose challenge, as functional capacity diminishes in home environment. Further research should be explored in longitudinal studies on mobility and improving quality of living among isolated aging population.
Virtual Testing of Seniors: The Feasibility of Research with Online Neuropsychological Tests (FRONT)
Authors: Pauley Chris , Yetman Linda , Lupo Jody-Lynn , Slack Penelope , Jacobs Diane , McGibbon Chris , Jarrett Pamela , Odasso Manuel Montero 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Synergic@Home is a feasibility study evaluating the effects of exercise and cognitive interventions for the prevention of dementia in at-risk individuals over age 60. The COVID-19 pandemic changed the study’s methods, with standardized neuropsychological tests needing to be administered virtually. Experience and research into the viability of neuropsychological assessments administered virtually is limited. After receiving permission to adapt the tests for virtual administration, a neuropsychologist, project managers, and research coordinators developed their approach. A PowerPoint presentation using text and visual stimuli from the tests was developed with on-screen instructions for the raters. An iterative development process involved feedback from the team in order to maximize the fidelity of these methods compared to in-person administration. Mock assessments supervised by a neuropsychologist further refined the methods and confirmed rater adherence to standardized procedures. A secure videoconferencing platform meeting privacy requirements was used. Dual monitors for the raters provided instructions on one monitor while stimuli for the participant was on the second monitor. The participant could only see the stimuli. This method of administering neuropsychological assessment, the Feasibility of Research with Online Neuropsychological Testing (FRONT), is being used to evaluate older adult participants in Synergic@Home. Results from this feasibility study may set the stage for new research methodologies and/or clinical evaluations in the future. This project is funded by the New Brunswick Healthy Seniors Pilot Project and the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging (with grants from Public Health Agency of Canada and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, with additional funding partners).
Age-Related Changes in Posture Steadiness in the Companion Dog
Authors: Vero Alejandra Mondino , Wagner Grant , Lobaton Edgar , Russell Katharine , Olby Natasha 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Aging is associated with changes in the sensory-motor system that could lead to dynamic instability. In fact, postural control deficits have been proposed as an early indicator of frailty. Measurements of the displacement of the center of pressure (COP) using pressure mat data are useful tools to determine postural steadiness. Companion dogs represent a powerful model to study aging in people because they share our environment and experience similar age-related diseases. To date, the effect of aging on postural control in dogs has not yet been evaluated. The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between age and the displacement of the COP in dogs during quiet standing. Due to the diversity of life expectancy in dogs according to their body size, age was normalized as a fraction of the predicted life expectancy. Dogs older than 75% of their life expectancy (n=18) were asked to stand on a pressure mat for 8 seconds per trial during at least five trials. Only the frames where the dogs were standing still and facing forward were analyzed. Age as a fraction of life expectancy was significantly correlated (p&lt;0.05) with the Medio-lateral Range, Root-Mean-Square Distance, 95% Confidence Ellipse, and Total Sway Area of the COP. These results show that, as in humans, aging in dogs is associated with postural control deficits and therefore reinforce the dog as a suitable model for translational studies of aging and postural steadiness.
Care Recipient Diagnosis Moderates the Relationship Between Caregiver Worry and Vigilance
Authors: Craig Katherine , Kamil-Rosenberg Shirit , Fairchild J Kaci 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Family members of persons diagnosed with dementia or a traumatic brain injury (TBI) are often relied upon to provide daily support to their care recipients. However, research on the differing experiences of caregivers based on care recipient diagnosis is limited. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of worry and feelings of vigilance among caregivers of people with cognitive impairment due to either TBI or dementia. This sample included 61 caregivers (88.5% female, mean age 57.3±15.5) of persons with either a TBI (n = 32) or dementia (n = 29). Worry was assessed with the Penn State Worry Questionnaire and Vigilance was assessed with the Caregiver Vigilance Scale. Linear regressions revealed that after controlling for age, care recipient diagnosis moderated the relationship between worry and caregiver vigilance. Specifically, worry was significantly associated with caregiver vigilance in those caring for someone with dementia; however, a similar relationship was not seen in those caring for someone with a TBI. This suggests caregivers of people with TBIs have a different experience of worry and vigilance than caregivers of people with dementia. These findings demonstrate the need for more research on the unique needs of caregivers of people with TBIs. Additionally, this research suggests interventions targeting worry may be particularly effective in supporting caregivers of people with TBIs.
Receipt of Training Among Family Caregivers Assisting With a Post-Hospital Care Transition
Authors: Burgdorf Julia , Fabius Chanee , Riffin Catherine , Wolff Jennifer 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Medicare Conditions of Participation require hospitals to provide training to family and unpaid caregivers when their support is necessary to enact the post-discharge care plan. However, caregivers often report feeling unprepared for this role. We perform a cross-sectional analysis of the 2017 National Health and Aging Trends Study and its linked National Study of Caregiving (nationally representative surveys of older adults and their family and unpaid caregivers, respectively) to assess the prevalence of, and factors associated with, caregiver receipt of adequate transitional care training. Our analytic sample includes 795 (weighted n=7,083,222) family caregivers who assisted an older adult during a post-hospital care transition in the past year. The outcome of interest caregiver-reported receipt of the training needed to manage this transition (“adequate transitional care training”) from hospital staff. Six in ten (59.1%) caregivers who assisted during a post-hospital care transition reported receiving adequate transitional care training. In weighted, multivariable logistic regression models, caregivers were half as likely to report receiving adequate transitional care training if they were black compared to white (Adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR): 0.52; 95% CI: 0.31-0.89) or experienced financial difficulty (aOR: 0.50; 95% CI: 0.31-0.81). Findings suggest that socially vulnerable family caregivers of older adults are less likely to report receiving adequate transitional care training. Changes to the discharge process, such as using standardized caregiver assessments, may be necessary to ensure equitable support of family caregivers.
Influences of Prejudice and Stereotyping in the Direct Care Workforce
Authors: May Jennifer 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Direct Care Workers (DCW; nursing assistants, personal care aides, home health aides) have the most one on one care with sexual and gender minority (SGM) older adults who reside in residential care facilities or use home health services. DCWs make up a vast majority of the healthcare workforce, holding almost five million jobs in 2019, with approximately 70% of the positions held being in residential care facilities. In a qualitative design study, 11 DCWs were interviewed using an open-ended, semi-structured format to describe their perceptions of care provided to SGM older adults in residential care facilities and the home health setting. These results were part of a larger qualitative study which found there were cues of stereotyping and prejudice in DCW narratives toward SGM older adults. The category DCWs’ care and social system referred to characteristics of the DCWs’ work environment and the perspectives, attitudes, and reported care toward SGM older adults and diverse populations. It was determined that there are synergies among SGM older adults’ care and DCW along with DCW workforce issues (short staffed, low wages, lack of health benefits) that may prevent the DCW from being accepting of implicit bias training or culture change within these facilities/agencies. Implications for practice, policy, and future research are discussed.
Recruiting Resident Participants from Nursing Homes During the COVID Pandemic: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Almasri Leena , Carlson Barbara , Myers Julie , Koszalinski Rebecca , Franklin Melissa , Kelsh Alysa , Sturdevant Diana 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Recruiting nursing home residents as participants in research is challenging. In early 2021, Covid-19 cases rose rapidly in nursing homes, prompting the rapid deployment of infectious disease protocols and ultimately, facility lockdowns to control the spread of the virus. By September, 2020, many research projects were delayed or cancelled, and future research was jeopardized. During this period, as well as prior to and after the administration of the COVID vaccine, we enrolled residents in a complex protocol involving administration of two Shingles vaccines (0- and 90 days) and three separate blood samples. Here, we present the strategies we used to recruit 216 residents, from 23 homes, over a 9-month period. We faced many challenges. Our research staff faced weekly COVID-19 antigen tests prior to entering the facility, adhering to strict protocols on travel, as well as packaging of materials that entered and left the facility. N95 masks and face shields further made it difficult to communicate with residents. For homes, COVID protocols required residents to be transported to specified areas to meet with research staff. Daily monitoring of COVID and Shingrix vaccine symptoms became part of daily care. To minimize resident harm and interruption of workflow in nursing homes, we utilized principles of stakeholder engagement, healthcare leadership, infectious disease/immunology, and staff (research and nursing homes) empowerment. In the face of crisis, like the COVID-19 pandemic, we have gained the trust and commitment of these facilities; thus, establishing a sustainable partnership that is prepared for what comes next.
Remote Assessment Preferences of NIA Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center Participants During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Nunnerley Michael , Mattek Nora , Beattie Zachary , Kaye Jeffrey 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background: In a progressively technology-infused world, older adults are becoming accustomed to the digitization of research participation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it became necessary to conduct remote study visits typically carried out over the telephone or using video calling programs (e.g. Zoom). Methods: The National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center developed a COVID-19 Technology Accessibility Survey to determine preferred types of study visits for study participants and to understand how this older population accesses the internet. Results: Seven Alzheimer Disease Research Centers collected 1282 survey responses (mean age: ±71.8 years, mean education: 16.5±2.5 years, race/ethnicity: 86% White/non-Hispanic). In respondents aged 65-80, internet access was endorsed by 73% regarding smartphones, 61% for laptops, and 46% for tablets. Interest in wearable devices was expressed by 21% of respondents and interest in smart homes by 6%. Study visit preference among this age group was 42% in favor of in-person, 25% via phone, and 33% via video. In respondents aged &gt;80 internet access was endorsed by 47% regarding smartphones, 47% for laptops, and 34% for tablets. Interest in wearable devices was expressed by 9% of respondents and interest in smart homes by 3%. Study visit preference among this age group was 38% in favor of in-person, 34% via phone, and 28% via video. Discussion: In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the survey suggests many study participants are interested in remote visits. Significant age group differences are present regarding internet access. Further studies are required to increase the understanding of the efficacy of this research visit format.
Staying Connected during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Experiences of Older People in Mexico and Scotland
Authors: Curreri Nereide , de Oca Verónica Montes , McCabe Louise , Vivaldo Marissa , Dawson Alison , Rivera Miguel , Arroyo Maria , Douglas Elaine 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
During the pandemic older people saw transformations in their social connections due to lockdowns and other restrictions. Technology provided one mechanism for them to stay connected with others, but technology may not be accessible or desirable for everyone. Gender, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, age and other factors enhance or limit engagement with technology. This project explored experiences of older people in Mexico and Scotland during the pandemic and examined the potential of everyday technology to help maintain social connectedness. A mixed methods approach included secondary analysis of large-scale datasets alongside primary data. Online semi-structured interviews and focus groups were carried out with 36 older people in Mexico and 23 older people in Scotland. Sampling was purposeful creating a diverse sample across age, gender, ethnicity and socioeconomic status. The findings demonstrate that advantages and disadvantages accumulated in the life course determine how older people select, optimize and compensate for new ways of staying socially connected during the pandemic in both countries. The use of technologies among older people is further mediated by structural inequalities with differences found between Mexico and Scotland in specific patterns identified. Further, stereotypes about older age and technology use are obstacles to the use of technology, as they affect the perception of self-efficacy by older people. Despite the obstacles, this study has shown that older people have a broad range of resources that have enabled them to cope with the pandemic and utilise technology to maintain social connections. The project offers recommendations to support older people’s human rights.