bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
EXPLORING EARLY LIFE EXPOSURES AND THEIR IMPACT ON PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMONG NATIVE HAWAIIAN ELDERS
Authors: Hwang Phoebe , Keaulana-Scott Samantha , Ho-Lastimosa Ilima , Chung-Do Jane , Braun Kathryn 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In the United States, Native Hawaiians (NH) tend to face more barriers to meeting physical activity (PA) recommendations than other ethnic groups. Previous studies have shown that national evidence-based PA interventions do not resonate with Native Hawaiians and are not effective in increasing physical activity levels. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and early life exposures significantly impact PA behaviors and health outcomes in adulthood, particularly among NH populations. The purpose of this study is to explore how early life exposures experienced by NH may affect their perceptions and behaviors towards PA. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 NH community-dwelling elders ages 55 years and older recruited from an urban area and a rural area in O‘ahu, Hawai‘i. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and independently coded by two researchers. Three major themes were identified in this study. First, most elders were engaged in PA post-retirement, but PA type varied by the residential type (urban versus rural). Second, barriers to childhood PA were contextualized by the residential type that participants grew up in. Third, PA perspectives and behaviors were influenced by gender roles and expectations. Separately, stories of racial discrimination and ACEs naturally arose during the interviews among NH participants who were raised in urban areas. Findings suggest that PA behaviors are shaped by early life social norms, which are influenced by the residential type. Future studies should focus on exploring the connection between early life perceived discrimination and later life health behaviors.
EXPLORING SOCIAL CONNECTEDNESS, PERSONALITY, HEALTH, AND LONELINESS AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Louis-Charles Willencia , Bhowmick Pallabi , Gupta Avinash , Rogers Wendy , Mois George 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
As people age, changes in their social network may occur due to retirement, the loss of family and friends, and reduced social participation stemming from health issues, potentially leading to social isolation and feelings of loneliness. Approximately one in four older adults in the US alone are considered socially isolated. Being socially isolated is related to loneliness, but they are distinct constructions. Personality traits and perceptions of health may relate to loneliness perceptions. Personality traits are the enduring characteristics of a person and can predict how they will connect with their network. Older adults are also more likely to experience chronic conditions that impact their ability to socialize. As part of a larger study, we explored the relationships between social connectedness, personality, health, and loneliness for 21 older adults (61-80, M=69.0, SD=5.5) Participants completed the Ten-Item Personality Inventory and the Social Connectedness Scale, which integrates the Social Disconnectedness Scale and the Social Isolation Scale. A descriptive analysis was conducted to identify the participants’ personality types and self-reported social connectedness. Emotional stability was negatively correlated (r=-0.55) with perceived loneliness with participants having higher emotional stability also scoring high on the Social Connectedness Scale. No significant association was found between the other personality traits and loneliness. However, perceived health was positively linked to better social connection (r=0.51). These results provide insights into the potential role of personality and health for social connectedness that might help tailor potential interventions that could reduce loneliness among older adults, leading to a better quality of life.
FAMILIAL VISITATION OF LONG TERM CARE FACILITY RESIDENTS: DIFFERENTIATING SOCIAL BEHAVIORS FROM CARE COORDINATION
Authors: Collins-Pisano Caroline , Weiskittle Rachel 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
High rates of loneliness persist among residents of long-term care (LTC) facilities despite frequent familial visitation. Most studies on LTC visitation do not differentiate social behavior (e.g., talking to the resident about their interests) from care coordination (e.g., attending the resident’s care conferences). It is possible but unknown if these distinct forms of visitation impact resident loneliness differently. Past research has identified barriers to overall LTC facility visitation, such as family member demographics (e.g., gender, income) and relational factors (e.g., closeness, history of care provision). The aim of the present study was to determine whether these demographic and relational factors related to social behavior and care coordination differently. Community-dwelling adults aged 18 and older who endorsed having a close friend or relative currently residing in a LTC facility (N = 175) recruited via ResearchMatch completed an online survey regarding their demographics, LTC visiting behaviors, and relationship with the resident. Overall, results indicated demographic variables were not significantly associated with either social behavior or care coordination, but relational factors were significant predictors of both outcomes. Individuals who reported higher closeness with the resident and who had been their primary caregiver demonstrated significantly greater care coordination involvement and social behavior involvement. Immediate family members were more likely to be involved in care coordination than friends or extended family, but they were not more likely to socially interact with the resident. These findings imply there are distinct facilitators and barriers for care coordination and social involvement that warrant further investigation.
FEASIBILITY OF A PHYSICAL ACTIVITY GOAL SETTING INTERVENTION AMONG INSUFFICIENTLY ACTIVE MIDLIFE ADULTS
Authors: Maxfield Molly , Pituch Keenan , Salisbury Dereck , Yu Fang , Joseph Rodney 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Physical activity (PA) during midlife can reduce risk for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. However, adherence to national PA guidelines (≥150 min/week of moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic PA [MVPA]) among midlife adults is rarely achieved through behavioral PA interventions, which may be due to inconsistent or unsuitable approaches to goal setting. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of a 6-month virtual coaching intervention designed to test the effectiveness of three different goal setting techniques to enhance mechanisms of self-regulation and self-efficacy and increase PA among insufficiently active midlife adults with obesity. Study participants (n=24) were provided a Fitbit to self-monitor their MVPA, received weekly virtual PA coaching conducted via Zoom, and were assigned to 1 of 4 groups: i) static weekly goal of 150 min/week of MVPA, ii) weekly self-selected MVPA goals, iii) modest incremental increase in weekly MVPA goal (20% min/week greater than previous week’s MVPA); or iv) non-goal setting comparison group. Results showed favorable outcomes for retention (91.3% [n=21] retained at 6-months), coaching sessions attendance (85.9% of sessions completed), and Fitbit wear adherence (Fitbit worn for &gt; 10 hour/day on 87.1% of intervention days). Although the small sample precludes use of inferential statistics or examination of group differences, patterns of change suggested that participants experienced improvements in MVPA and psychosocial mediators of self-efficacy and self-regulation. Building upon these results, a forthcoming Stage 2 proof-of-concept trial (n=120) will be conducted to examine the effectiveness of these goal-setting techniques to increase MVPA among midlife adults.
FEASIBILITY, ACCEPTABILITY, AND UTILITY OF THE HOME ALONE INTERVENTION: A PRELIMINARY MIXED METHODS EVALUATION
Authors: Savard Grace , Birkeland Robyn , Ingvalson Stephanie , Pepin Renèe , Cigliana Jill , Gitlin Laura , Gaugler Joseph 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Research has established that living alone with cognitive impairment in later life presents an increased risk for social isolation, decline in mobility, and other adverse health outcomes. While the number of older adults living independently with cognitive impairment is expected to increase, few programs are available to address the specific needs of this growing population. Home Alone—a novel intervention that includes seven coaching sessions focused on home safety, lifestyle planning, and meaningful engagement through behavioral activation—was designed to support older adults living alone at home with memory concerns. A feasibility pilot phase of Home Alone was conducted between June 2023 and February 2024. Fifteen participants (average age: 73; range: 55-88) living across the United States completed the intervention via telehealth or local in-home sessions. Data and feedback were provided through surveys (baseline, 1, and 3 months) and semi-structured interviews. Mixed methods results showed that the intervention was feasible, acceptable, and useful to participants. Interviews, open-ended survey responses, and coaching sessions yielded insights into program effectiveness and benefits. While in the program, participants restructured home environments to enhance safety, connected with previously unfamiliar resources, and incorporated technology to assist with tasks of daily living. Nearly all participants noted appreciation for tailored activities, educational information, and personal companionship as they navigated transitions and changes. Incorporating participant and staff perspectives from the feasibility phase, this poster will expand on the Home Alone program’s feasibility, acceptability, and utility and highlight modifications made to the intervention for the ongoing larger pilot study (April 2024-Present; n=20).
HOW DOES AWARENESS OF SOCIAL SERVICES PLAY A ROLE IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RELATIONAL RESOURCES AND THE AIP?
Authors: Park Junmin , Lee Yeonjung 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The process of ‘Aging in Place (AIP)’ encompasses a variety of declines in physical capabilities, adaptability to environmental changes, and the breadth of interpersonal relationships. The AIP is not just about staying in the community; it also involves the availability of requisite resources to address the needs that emerge throughout the AIP journey. In this context, relational resources such as an individual’s social capital, may serve as a significant asset. Nonetheless, the availability of relational resources is not uniform among older adults, and it might be risky to solely rely on relational resources, potentially resulting in an excessive burden on the enhancement of AIP sustainability. Instead, social services can act as supportive resources. The purpose of this study is to examine the moderating role of perceived awareness of social services in the relationship between relational resources and the intention to AIP. Logistic regression was conducted using data from the 2020 National Survey of Older Koreans (n=10,097). The results show that older adults who have more relational resources are likely to have more intention to AIP and specifically, the association is stronger at a higher awareness of services. The findings show that there is a need for a range of social engagement programs to provide more opportunities to build relational resources in later life, thus increasing the likelihood of AIP. Policy efforts are also needed to increase awareness of social services among older adults and so, they can plan their AIP with the assurance of various available supports.
LONGITUDINAL ASSOCIATION OF FOOD INSECURITY AND MOBILITY LIMITATIONS AMONG US OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Dhakal Usha , Asmar Khalil El , de Leon Carlos Mendes 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Food insecurity among older adults is associated with a range of adverse health outcomes, including cognitive impairment, poor mental health, and mortality. The role of food insecurity in impairments in functional status, such as mobility limitations, remains unclear. Therefore, we used weighted generalized linear models to investigate the association between food insecurity and mobility limitations. Considering the 2014 Health and Retirement Study (HRS) wave as the baseline, we extracted data from an HRS subsample who completed the 2013 Health Care and Nutrition Study (n=6476) and three additional HRS waves through 2020. Mobility limitations scores were based on five items (range:0-5); higher scores indicated more limitations. Food insecurity scores were derived from a validated scale of food access and availability. On average, older adults had difficulty performing at least one mobility task at baseline, and their mobility limitations score increased by 0.5 points per year. After adjustment for demographic and socio-economic factors, greater food insecurity was significantly associated with greater mobility limitations at baseline (β=0.19, 95%CI[.15,.23], p&lt;.0001), but it was not significantly associated with greater increase in mobility limitations over time (β=0.004, 95%CI[.002,.009], p=.22). Associations remained mostly unchanged after controlling for chronic conditions and depressive symptoms. Our findings suggest that food insecurity is associated with mobility limitations, although its role in continued mobility decline over time was small and not statistically significant. Early identification of at-risk older adults for food insecurity may still offer benefits for improved mobility and thereby contribute towards better overall physical functioning and prevent disability onset.
LONGITUDINAL ASSOCIATIONS OF HEALTH BEHAVIOR ADHERENCE WITH PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING AND NUMBER OF ILLNESSES
Authors: Hamada Fumiko , Lee Soomi 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Lifelong healthy habits are vital for healthy aging. This study examined the longitudinal associations of adherence to three key health behaviors (i.e., sleep, physical activity, healthy eating) on psychological well-being (PWB) and illnesses 10 years later. Data were from Midlife in the United States II and III (2005-2006, 2013-2017) participants who provided daily diary data at both timepoints (n=858; Mage=54 at T1). Over eight consecutive days, participants reported nightly sleep duration and the daily amount of vigorous physical activity. A subsample (n=428) reported weekly fast-food consumption. Adherence rates for each health behavior were calculated at each timepoint by summing the number of days with optimal sleep (6&lt; sleep hours≤9), vigorous physical activity (≥30 minutes), and not eating fast food. Participants also completed a survey for PWB and the number of illnesses. A series of general linear or Poisson models examined the associations between the adherence variables and PWB and the number of illnesses, adjusting for sociodemographic and health covariates, baseline PWB or illnesses, and 10-year change in each adherence behavior. Adherence to optimal sleep and not eating fast food were stable across 10 years, while adherence to physical activity decreased. Greater adherence to optimal sleep (B=1.31; SE=0.45; p=0.003) and physical activity (B=1.16; SE=0.43; p=0.007) were each associated with better PWB 10 years later but not with the number of illnesses. Greater adherence to not eating fast food was associated with fewer illnesses (B=-0.12; SE=0.03; p&lt; 0.001) but not PWB. Findings suggest that adherence to healthy lifestyles may be crucial for healthy aging.
MAPPING RELIGIOUS AND SPIRITUAL CARE IN WISCONSIN LONG-TERM CARE: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY
Authors: Lyndes Kathryn , McEvoy Sarah , Arata Louis 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The importance of religion and spirituality (R/S) for older adults is well-recognized (Pew Research Center, 2015); however, little is known about specific types of R/S care and who provides it across a range of long-term centers. The aim of this study was to expand on a pilot study that explored the feasibility of gathering details about R/S care of residents in long-term care centers in northern Indiana (Lyndes & Fitchett, 2021), and on a single Tennessee county study that enabled the researchers to hone the study design (Lyndes, McEvoy, & Arata, 2023). The current study in this abstract extended the sample to Wisconsin, employing a systematic selection of diverse residential care centers (including skilled nursing homes, assisted living, independent living, and senior housing), and developing a preliminary description of the types of services as well as the training and criteria of the staff and volunteers who provide them. Results indicate that the majority of multi-disciplinary staff who participated in this study identified R/S care as beneficial to the health and well-being of residents. Many centers rely on staff chaplains and/or volunteer community members, with a range of credentials and training such as Clinical Pastoral Education, to provide an array of R/S services, for example one-on-one visits and weekly worship. The data has important implications for allied healthcare teams and long-term care providers who deliver services to older adults, including the need for culturally competent training across faith traditions to meet the needs of diverse residents.
MINDFULNESS PRACTICE IN OLDER ADULTS: MIXED-METHOD FINDINGS FROM AN OUTPATIENT GROUP INTERVENTION
Authors: Griffith Christopher , Sundby Jonathan , Broen Tiana , Feliciano Leilani 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Mindfulness can be thought of as a skill that centers on directing attention, in the present moment, with non-judgment. Mindfulness skills are effective strategies for addressing psychological symptoms, including improving mood, stress, chronic pain, sleep, and well-being in older adults. To further examine the effects of mindfulness practice in a group setting, two 8-week mindfulness skills building groups were conducted at a community outpatient clinic for older adults in Southern Colorado. Participants (n = 11) completed pre-post measures on depression, anxiety, stress, well-being, pain, sleep, and trait-mindfulness. The final session was recorded and transcribed to allow for thematic analysis. During this session, participants were asked how mindfulness practice influenced them and what changes they may have noticed. Some responses included themes related to outcome measures (e.g., stress, well-being), with additional themes emerging related to: 1) overall effectiveness, 2) greater insight, 3) interpersonal functioning, 4) group cohesion, 5) context, and 6) filler. Paired-samples t-tests were conducted demonstrating significant improvements in depressive symptoms [t(5) = 4.84, p &lt;.01], anxiety [t(8) = 2.79, p &lt;.05], perceived stress [t(9) = 3.03, p &lt;.05], well-being [t(8) = -3.90, p &lt;.01], and trait mindfulness [t(9) = -6.01, p &lt;.001]. Study findings support mindfulness for symptom reduction and improved mental health and well-being in older adults, and provide a better understanding of subjective benefits to participating in mindfulness groups. Thematic results indicated that older adults value mindfulness practice and appreciate the shared experience of learning and practicing with their peers.
MODIFIABLE DEMENTIA RISK FACTORS: THE EFFECTS OF BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION ON PERCEPTIONS OF AN OLDER ADULT AT RISK
Authors: Poettcker Karli , Maxfield Molly 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are progressive and have significant effects on those diagnosed and their caregivers. Increasing emphasis on modifiable lifestyle factors to reduce dementia risk (e.g., physical activity, managing blood pressure, blood sugar, and weight) offers a sense of personal control and self-efficacy. Potential disadvantages include negative perceptions of individuals who do not modify their behaviors and labeling of dementia as a “lifestyle disease.” We examined whether behavior modification to reduce dementia risk affects attributions of responsibility and capability. In an online study, 242 participants (18-64 years, Mage=41.28, SDage=12.60) read a vignette describing ‘Patrick’s’ concerns about cognitive decline as reported to his physician. Although determined to be normal age-related change, the physician recommended exercise and diet changes to reduce Patrick’s dementia risk by improving cardiovascular health. Participants were randomly assigned to read about ‘Patrick,’ who either did or did not follow recommended lifestyle changes. Participants then rated Patrick’s responsibility for his current condition, capability for basic tasks, their willingness to socialize with him, and emotional reactions he provoked. Multivariate analysis of variance revealed that not modifying behavior led to rating Patrick as more responsible for his condition and less capable of decision-making compared to Patrick with behavior change; additionally, reading about Patrick without behavior modification resulted in lower willingness to socialize and greater levels of negative emotional reactions compared to Patrick with behavior modification (ps &lt;.05). Findings highlight how behavior modification affects perceptions, suggesting the need for careful public health messaging about dementia risk and lifestyle modifications.
PICOLINIC ACID, A CATABOLITE OF TRYPTOPHAN, HAS AN ANABOLIC EFFECT ON MYOBLASTS AND INCREASES MOBILITY IN C. ELEGANS
Authors: Duque Gustavo , Rivas Daniel , AlOkda Abdelrahman , Baltasar-Fernandez Ivan , Van Raamsdonk Jeremy 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Osteoporosis, sarcopenia, and osteosarcopenia (simultaneous occurrence of these diseases) are highly prevalent in older persons and associated with falls and fractures. Compounds with dual anabolic effects on muscle and bone could become the treatment of choice for these conditions. We have previously reported the anabolic effect of picolinic acid (PIC) on bone in vitro and in vivo. However, its effect on muscles remains to be elucidated. Therefore, the aim of the study was to examine the effect of PIC on muscle. C2C12 myoblasts were treated with PIC (1, 50 and 100 µM) or vehicle for 7 days. Transcription factors involved in myogenesis were evaluated by western blot, and the fusion index and myotubules’ length were calculated in confocal microscopy images at timed intervals (Day 1, 3, 5 and 7). In addition, C. elegans were treated with 1mM PIC, and the frequency of thrashing (mobility) was evaluated at timed intervals (Day 1, 8 and 16). PIC-treated myoblasts showed a higher and earlier expression of myosin II and MyoD transcription factors (p &lt; 0.001). On day 5, PIC-treated myotubes were significantly longer when treated with 50 µM (+80.7 µm, p=0.001) and 100 µM (+73.0 µm, p=0.002) than vehicle-treated controls. The frequency of thrashing was also significantly increased in the PIC-treated C. elegans at all timed intervals (p &lt; 0.001). In conclusion, this study demonstrates that, in addition to its anabolic effect on bone, PIC also has an anabolic effect on muscle, which opens up exciting possibilities for further exploration in animal models and future geroscience research.