bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
UNDERSTANDING AND EXPERIENCING AGEISM: PERSPECTIVES FROM OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Li Aaron , Morrow-Howell Nancy , Galucia Natalie , Johnson Khrystal , Carpenter Brian 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Interventions to reduce ageism usually target younger people and service providers, with little research on interventions directed explicitly at older people to identify and resist interpersonal and internalized ageism. This study increases knowledge to guide the development of such interventions by elucidating how older people think about ageism and clarifying motivations to confront it. We also need to know the language older people use to describe ageism and the experiences they report in employment, health care, and family setting. This knowledge is important for designing acceptable and effective anti-ageism programs. We employed a focus group methodology, gathering data on the lived experience of ageism among a diverse group of 50 people over the age of 60. Questions elicited participants’ thoughts about interpersonal and internalized ageism, examples of how they experienced it, and how they reacted. Findings suggest that older people are not clear about what constitutes interpersonal ageism, and internalized ageism is difficult to identify. Instead, participants resorted to talking about their experiences of growing older and frequently mentioned a lack of respect as the hallmark of ageism. Examples of ageism within their families and among younger acquaintances were more common than examples in other domains of daily life. Older age did not rise to the level of importance of other marginalized identities; instead, racism, ableism and homophobia were more central to their experiences of discrimination. Findings suggest that interventions with older people must include consciousness-raising about ageism and its consequences well as common examples and skills to combat it.
USING DIGITAL HEALTH TO REDUCE BURDEN IN OLDER ADULTS WITH CANCER UNDERGOING CHEMOTHERAPY: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Sim Hyebeen , Shin Jinhee , Konlan Kennedy Diema 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Digital health interventions have the potential to enhance health outcomes and support older adults with cancer in managing their conditions. However, the specific benefits and components of these interventions for this population remain inadequately defined. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of digital health interventions in alleviating the burden of chemotherapy for older adults with cancer. This systematic review used PRISMA guidelines and the PICO framework. The Searches were conducted across five databases (CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science). Of the 5,683 articles screened, 13 were selected based on the inclusion criteria. Data extraction was performed by two authors using a predetermined matrix. The analysis was done using the interpretative thematic synthesis design. The digital health technologies examined included mobile apps, remote monitoring, and games, utilizing devices such as tablets, smartphones, and smartwatches. Significant benefits were observed for older adults with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, including improvements in symptom management, physical activity, nutritional support, and quality of life. Additionally, patients in the intervention groups experienced reductions in hospitalizations and treatment-related toxicities, along with improved efficacy in symptom monitoring. Digital health interventions show considerable promise in supporting older adults undergoing chemotherapy. However, further research is essential to clearly define the components of these digital health interventions for older adults with cancer and their specific impacts. Developing and adopting accessible digital health intervention applications that can be used at any time and place will be crucial in effectively preventing or alleviating the adverse effects of cancer treatment.
USING QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS TO DEVELOP HIRING GUIDELINES TO IMPROVE CAREGIVING FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA AT HOME
Authors: Watman Deborah , Reckrey Jennifer 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Many people living with dementia are being cared for at home by hired paid caregivers. While paid caregivers frequently become an integral part of the care team, little is known about how they are selected by families of people living with dementia. We conducted a secondary analysis of qualitative data collected during two studies that examined family caregiver perspectives on the role of paid caregivers in home-based dementia care (study 1 n=15, study 2 n=9). We developed a codebook focused on emergent themes related to the selection and hiring of paid caregivers, specifically noting practical advice from family caregivers. We analyzed results using thematic analysis. Family caregivers frequently described difficulty setting up care and hiring paid caregivers. This was true for both those who hired paid caregivers privately and those who worked with agencies who provided Medicaid-funded paid care. Many had to cycle through several caregivers, increasing stress for the family, and reducing constancy for the person with dementia. Our findings point to the need for improved hiring guidelines for paid caregivers. Informational materials, including sample interview questions for both paid caregivers as well as family members, can improve the efficiency and quality of the hiring process. It behooves family members, home health agencies, and privately paid caregivers to approach the hiring process deliberately and thoughtfully. Creating and distributing formalized guidelines and protocols can serve as a helpful resource at a stressful time, and improve the overall quality of care for the person with dementia at home.
VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY OF THE MULTIDIMENSIONAL FUNCTIONAL ASSESSMENT QUESTIONNAIRE (OARS) IN ANGOLAN ELDERLY
Authors: Bárbara Rita , Gonçalves Rui , Sousa Carlos , Chingui Luciano , Armando Antonio , Lopes Mario 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Introduction
The Older American Resources and Services (OARS) questionnaire assesses functionality and cognition in the elderly. Validating and culturally adapting instruments like the OARS is crucial to ensure their accuracy across different contexts. Objective: This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the OARS for elderly individuals in Angola, focusing on cognitive and functional domains.

Methods
The adaptation of the OARS involved a rigorous process, including translation, cultural adaptation, and clinimetric analysis. A multidisciplinary panel of experts, including professionals from internal medicine, public health, epidemiology, physiotherapy, and nursing, reviewed and validated the adapted version. The sample comprised 102 elderly residents of Luanda, randomly selected to ensure representativeness. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, while validity was examined through exploratory factor analysis, with particular attention to item factor loadings.

Results
The physical activity domain demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.80) and robust factor loadings, indicating reliability and validity in the Angolan context. The mental health domain showed moderate internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.59) and variable factor loadings, suggesting the need for further refinement for better cultural and linguistic adaptation.

Conclusion
The adapted OARS version proved reliable for assessing physical activity among Angolan elderly, but the mental health domain requires adjustments. These findings highlight the importance of clinimetrics and factor analysis in the cultural adaptation of instruments, ensuring their effectiveness across diverse sociocultural contexts. Keywords: Cognition, clinimetrics, validation
VIRTUAL COMPARATIVE GLOBAL AGING CURRICULUM/COURSE – STUDENT GLOBAL COMPETENCES QUALITATIVE THEMATIC ANALYSIS
Authors: Zurek Alina , Zurek Grzegorz , Holley Lyn 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Presents global competences acquired by students of the international virtual course Comparative Global Aging implemented in the years 2018-2023. The course is the result of American-Polish cooperation between the University of Nebraska in Omaha and two Polish universities - the University of Wrocaw and the University School of Physical Education in Wrocław. The content of thirty-seven Learning Journals of students from 10 European countries studying in Poland in the ERASMUS student exchange program and UNO students was subjected to qualitative analysis using MAXQDA software. Discuss the results in the three distinguished dimensions of global competences - cognitive, socio-emotional and ethical, and five thematic clusters: Critical and Constructive Thinking, Self-Awareness and Self-Direction in Education, Effective Cross-Cultural Cooperation, Open Intergenerational Communication, Innovation in Action and Problem Solving. Learning outcomes achieved by students, i.e. the ability to examine local, global and cross-cultural issues in the topic of ageing, understand and appreciate the perspectives of people living in other countries and cultures, engage in open and effective interactions, and work to solve the problems of older people using a broad global perspective of ageing countries and societies
VISUAL FUNCTIONS AND PERFORMANCE ON COGNITIVE CHALLENGE TEST IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Zheng Diane , Curiel Rosie , Ortega Alexandra , Crenshaw Kirsten , Carballea Denise , Bosworth Brooke , Neer Emory , Loewenstein David 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Loewenstein-Acevedo Scales for Semantic Interferences and Learning (LASSI-L) is a culturally sensitive Cognitive Challenge Test (CCT) that has been shown to be predictive of preclinical Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Visual impairment is a risk factor for AD and cognitive decline. Associations between LASSI-L and visual functions in older adults have never been evaluated. We assessed 133 adults aged 61 to 88 diagnosed with normal cognition, amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI), or pre-MCI using a comprehensive clinical evaluation and cognitive battery. The mean age was 73.5 years, 68% female, the average education was 15 years, and mean MMSE was 28.3. About 60% of the sample identified as Hispanic/Latino. Participants were administered objective vision tests measuring distance visual acuity and contrast sensitivity, and LASSI-L. Multiple linear regressions were performed to examine associations between visual function and LASSI-L measures. After adjusting for age, sex, and education, contrast sensitivity was statistically significantly associated with the LASSI-L maximum storage capacity (A2 cued recall, β=2.80, se=1.1, p=0.01), proactive semantic interference (PSI) (B1cued intrusions, β=-2.99, se=1.25, p=0.02), and failure to recover from proactive semantic interference (frPSI) (B2 cued recall, β=3.64, se=0.24, p=0.004). Distance visual acuity was not associated with LASSI-L measures. Contrast sensitivity, or the ability to discern characters on a similar color background or brightness, is an important visual function that facilitates daily activities. The association between contrast sensitivity and subtle cognitive decline such as PSI and frPSI on CCT suggests that visual changes co-occur during pre-dementia stages and may be considered alongside other diagnostic tools.
WHY NOT LONG-TERM CARE? EXPLORING STUDENT NURSES’ PERSPECTIVES ON CAREERS CARING FOR OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Childress Kristen , Kokinakos Angela 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The aging population and growing numbers of people living with Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias (ADRD) are increasing the demand for licensed nurses, especially in the long-term care (LTC) sector. More than 89% of long-term care facilities in the United States (US) report ongoing staffing shortages that persist despite recruitment and retention efforts, directly impacting quality of care and outcomes for people with ADRD. Existing evidence describes factors influencing nursing staff retention in LTC but there is a paucity of information related to factors that impact nursing students’ decision-making related to entering careers in LTC. The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand student nurses’ perceptions of LTC as a career path. The first of four focus groups was conducted with five individuals. Interviews revealed that most participants plan to work in the hospital following graduation. Themes related to lack of plans to work in LTC included limitations in career advancement, past experiences with LTC culture, and perceptions of the care provided in LTC. Pay was a mixed factor, with quality of the work environment being more important to participants. Participants felt that faculty representation of LTC careers was positive, but participants described limited exposure to gerontologic nursing and LTC as part of their training, indicating that modification of these factors might have changed their perspective of careers in LTC. These early results identify key areas where crafting and delivering positive messaging and implementing educational interventions could boost nursing students’ interest in LTC careers.
BRIDGING THE GAP IN OBESITY TREATMENT FOR OLDER PEOPLE: THE ROLE OF THE TREAT AND REDUCE OBESITY ACT (TROA)
Authors: Van Vleet Samuel C , Jang Jeein , Fields Maizonne 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Obesity is a chronic disease with significant impacts on health outcomes and economic burdens throughout the life course. Obesity is prevalent and often undertreated among older people, especially those with lower socioeconomic status and those living in rural areas. Current coverage for obesity treatment is sparse and inconsistent across states, creating barriers to care for many. The Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA), a public policy initiative that has been in development for over a decade, seeks to address these gaps in care among Medicare beneficiaries. TROA, which has garnered bipartisan support and is bicameral, aims to improve access to comprehensive treatment options for older people. This presentation explores the benefits of treating obesity on various comorbidities, such as heart disease, sleep apnea, and diabetes, and will emphasize the need for expanded Medicare coverage for obesity treatments. Utilizing data from the 2024 Obesity Coverage Nexus Platform, we highlight the high prevalence and associated risks of obesity among older people and examine how state-level variations in insurance coverage for obesity treatments impact access. The passage of TROA would provide a more equitable and effective approach to obesity management, helping to alleviate the economic burden of out-of-pocket costs for obesity treatments and improving health outcomes for lower-income and underserved populations.
CHINESE FAMILY CAREGIVERS’ EXPERIENCE SUPPORTING FAMILY MEMBERS WITH DEMENTIA TRANSITIONING INTO US NURSING HOMES
Authors: Yuan Yiyang , Dubé Catherine , Lim Emily , Xu Shu , Qu Shan , McPhillips Emily , Lapane Kate 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Asian American family caregivers of individuals with dementia experience a greater burden compared to other racial/ethnic groups, underscoring the need for formal long-term care options including nursing homes. Transitioning a family member with dementia into a nursing home can be stressful due to cultural expectations and the lack of linguistically and culturally appropriate care. This qualitative study focused on caregivers of Chinese descent, the largest Asian community in the U.S., and explored their experiences as they support their family members with dementia through the nursing home transition. We conducted fourteen in-depth, semi-structured interviews with Mandarin- or English-speaking family caregivers. Through thematic analysis, we identified six major themes: the role of filial piety, allocation of caregiving duties, reasons for and against nursing homes, decisions about nursing home care, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and advice and suggestions. Filial piety remained a significant influence across all aspects of the caregiving experience. Caregivers reported physical, emotional, and financial struggles, limited availability of culturally and linguistically appropriate nursing home care, concerns about nursing home quality, and challenges in family discussions regarding the transition to a nursing home. Caregivers noted that COVID-19-related social isolation might have worsened their family members’ dementia. Many expressed the need for the Chinese community to become more familiar with healthcare options for the aging population and called for additional nursing home staff training to enhance the quality of culturally and linguistically appropriate nursing home care. Understanding caregivers’ experiences can also help identify areas for improvement in dementia care services.
CLINICIAN AWARENESS, ATTITUDES, AND INTEREST IN BLOOD TESTS FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Authors: Tracy Karen , Wood Julie , Tiede Ben , Scholler Emily 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Clinical research demonstrates the value of early detection of dementia, including dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and related disorders. Yet, timely and accurate diagnosis of AD in clinical practice remains challenging. The most widely used biomarkers to aid diagnosis of AD are positron emission tomography (PET) scans and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers. However, the clinical community recognizes that these tests have some limitations. Blood tests, also known as blood-based biomarkers (BBMs), are emerging as an aid for detecting and diagnosing AD. These include tests that measure circulating levels of amyloid or phosphorylated tau protein. The Global CEO Initiative on Alzheimer’s Disease (CEOi) is leading a global effort to prepare for the widespread adoption of BBMs for diagnosis of AD into clinical practice. As part of this effort, CEOi commissioned the American Academy of Family Physicians and GSA to issue surveys to their members in May and June 2024 to explore current perceptions and experience with BBM testing. Members were also asked to share their thoughts on how BBMs might be used in clinical practice and what is needed to strengthen their knowledge about BBMs. Insights from compatible surveys issued by AAFP and GSA are shared along with what clinicians would need to employ BBM tests in their practices.
COGNITIVE AND PRACTICE EFFECTS OF IMMERSIVE VIRTUAL REALITY USE IN OLDER ADULTS: PRELIMINARY RESULTS
Authors: Delgado Ferdinand , Greenberg Jeremiah 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Virtual reality through head-mounted displays (VR-HMD) is emerging as a tool for cognitive training in older adults. However, little is known about the impact of commercially available VR-HMD games on cognitive function. The purpose of this study was to examine preliminary results on the practice effects of VR-HMD games and their influence on cognition. Six participants (aged 71-81 years; 5 males) played VR-HMD games twice a week for eight weeks, for 60 minutes each session. Using the Meta Quest 3, participants played First Steps, featuring three laser shooting tasks (single-laser, dual-laser, and automatic laser) on weeks 1 and 5, and Fruit Ninja (Classic and Zen modes) on weeks 2 and 6. A Tai Chi and table tennis game were also played, but game scores were not recorded. Their average game score after each week was used for analysis. NeuroTrax BrainCare Tests were used to measure executive function (EF), information processing speed (IPS), attention, and visual-spatial ability before and after the intervention. Paired sample t-tests revealed significant practice effects in the single-laser (4251.24±1114.80 to 5066.36±1553.75, p=0.02) and automatic laser (4930.24±1311.34 to 6059.54±1219.53, p=0.018) tasks in First Steps, and Fruit Ninja’s classic mode (30.46±5.80 to 43.48±12.07, p=0.017). Visual-spatial ability showed a significant improvement (124.22±11.08 to 129.5±9.23, p=0.014), but not the other cognitive domains (p≥0.05). Improvement in Fruit Ninja’s classic mode showed a correlation trend with the change in visual-spatial ability (p=0.052). In conclusion, older adults can improve game performance in VR-HMD. Further research is needed to clarify VR-HMD effects on cognitive function.
COGNITIVE ASSESSMENT OF MARSHALLESE PEOPLE USING QDRS (QUICK DEMENTIA RATING SCALE)
Authors: Azhar Gohar , Sharma Shakshi , Riklon Sheldon , Kabua Philmar M , McElfish Pearl , Wei Jeanne Y 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Health disparities in Marshallese living in the US are common due to language barriers, cultural differences, lack of insurance, and inability to pay. Marshallese face strikingly high rates of heart attacks, diabetes, depression, and anxiety. As cognition in this population has been understudied, we used the Quick Dementia Rating Scale (QDRS), to determine aspects of their cognition. QDRS is a dementia staging tool of 10 items (30 points). Forty-nine subjects consented to the study, which included 34 younger adults (YA) and 15 older adults (OA). Self-reported co-morbidities of diabetes were 67% in OA vs 38% in YA; heart diseases were 67% in OA vs 9% in YA; hypertension was 33% in OA vs 18% in YA; anxiety and depression were 60% in OA vs 26% in YA. Cognitive assessment showed that 13% of OA had moderate to severe difficulty in memory and recall compared to only 2% of YA. Additionally, 7% OA had moderate to severe problems in orientation, attention, concentration, language, and decision-making abilities. Moderately severe problems were also found in behavior with personality changes and reduced personal hygiene in OA. Only 3 % of YA had problems performing tasks or activities outside the home compared to 7% in OA. Furthermore, 13 % of OA had moderate to severe problems with anxiety or depression with no issues reported by YA. Our results demonstrated that higher risks associated with cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus corelated with greater cognitive, behavioral, and functional impairment in older adult Marshallese in Arkansas.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF FALL RATES AMONG COMMUNITY-OLDER ADULTS IN SIX COUNTRIES
Authors: Kooshiar Hadi 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The number of older people who desire to live in their homes is rising. So, this study aimed to evaluate fall rates in community-dwelling older adults across six English-speaking countries. This cross-sectional survey was conducted with 114 older adults residing in Canada, the USA, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, and Northern Ireland. Participants recruited online through social media and passive snowball sampling completed self-rated fall risk (FRQ) and Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC-6) surveys, along with sociodemographic and health-related questions. Canadian and Irish respondents comprised the highest and lowest proportions of the sample, at 37% and 9%, respectively. The mean age was 67 (SD = 7.8), with a balanced gender distribution. Chronic diseases, notably joint pain and abnormal blood pressure, were reported by 25.4% of respondents. 44.8% of respondents reported falls in the past year, with 35.1% reporting falls in the past six months. Multiple falls were reported by 25.2% of respondents, with 45.8% reporting fractures primarily in the hands, forearms, or arms. Fall rates varied significantly among the countries: Canada (54.1%), USA (44.4%), Australia (53.8%), Ireland (40%), New Zealand (41.7%), and the UK and Northern Ireland (23.5%). Geographic, demographic, and methodological factors influence these rates. Higher fall rates in Canada may be due to an aging population and adverse weather conditions. The study’s findings have direct implications for research, clinical practice, and education. Recommendations for a prospective design with a large sample size are essential for a more comprehensive understanding of falls rate and effective prevention of falls.