bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Education of Family Members and Older Adult Cognitive Health: Differences Across Racial Groups
Authors: Vasireddy Sindhu , Yahirun Jenjira , Hayward Mark 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Education is a strong predictor of cognitive health among older adults, and recent research indicates that apart from one’s own education, the educational resources of family members also play a crucial role in shaping cognitive health over the life course. We add to this literature by investigating whether the advantages of highly educated family members matter for both Blacks and Whites in the U.S. Specifically, we ask whether the resources of family members-parents and offspring-partially explain the racial gap in both the prevalence and incidence of cognitive health across both groups. For this, we employ logistic regression models to examine the prevalence of cognitive impairment at baseline, and discrete-time event history models to assess the incidence of cognitive impairment, using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) for the years ranging from 2000 to 2012. Preliminary results indicate that at the baseline, respondent’s own education is predictive of cognitive impairment among Whites, but not Blacks. Once respondent-level health conditions and behaviors are taken into consideration, parental or offspring education is not associated with the prevalence of cognitive impairment. For respondents who are not impaired at the baseline, our results from the incidence models align with the “adjacent generations” literature suggesting that both parental and offspring education has a salient positive effect on later-life cognitive health. However, we find notable differences across groups to suggest that the education of parents and offspring may play a larger role in mitigating cognitive decline among African Americans, compared to Whites.
Current Research on Suicide in Older Adults
Authors: Owsiany Montgomery , Conwell Yeates 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Rates of suicide are elevated in middle- and late-life, yet studies focusing on suicidal ideation and behavior in older adults are limited compared to research in younger adults. The studies included in the present symposium offer valuable findings on suicide in older adults across the span of late-life. Owsiany et al. focus on age differences between older and younger adults in the association between anxiety symptoms and suicide risk. In Heisel et al., an online intervention is assessed for improving the outcomes of psychological well-being and suicide risk in older adult men who are transitioning into retirement during the COVID-19 pandemic. Crnek-Georgeson and Wilson reviewed the link between retirement patterns and psychological effects, including suicidal behaviors, among older adults. Additionally, this review includes recommendations for policy makers and employers in an effort to assist older adults with the transition into retirement. Utilizing baseline data from the Helping Older Adults Engage study, Fenstermacher et al. research the association between volunteering and suicidal ideation in a predominantly lonely older adult sample across the span of late-life. Together, these studies provide foundation for future research on suicide in late-life to build upon. Future studies should continue to focus on risk and protective factors for suicide in older adults and aim to improve screening and intervention for suicidal thoughts and behaviors in this population. Yeates Conwell, M.D., Director of Geriatric Psychiatry and Co-Director of the Center for the Study and Prevention of Suicide at the University of Rochester Medical Center, will serve as discussant.
Characterization of a Mouse Model of Inducible Frailty: The Humanized IL-6 Mouse
Authors: Nidadavolu Lolita , Abadir Peter M , Walston Jeremy , Le Anne , Yenokyan Gayane , Florea Liliana , Antonescu Corina , Foster D Brian 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) has pleiotropic effects in aging and is elevated in frail older adults. We have developed a conditional mouse model to better characterize the role of IL-6 in promoting frailty and age-related mitochondrial dysregulation. The human IL-6 (hIL-6) knock-in mouse (TetO-hIL6) was developed utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 technology with transgene donor vector containing a tetracycline response element promoter driving expression of hIL-6 cDNA. Male TetO-hIL6 mice were treated with doxycycline-containing water for six weeks starting at 8 months old. RNAseq analysis of whole blood demonstrated significant upregulation of pro-inflammatory related markers at 6 weeks compared to baseline and upregulated cell proliferation and metabolism pathways. Physical testing of TetO-hIL6 mice before and after hIL-6 induction demonstrated decreased grip strength (p =0.003), decreased running capacity (p = 0.02), and 40% increase in falls off of the treadmill (p = 0.001). Induced mice also demonstrated decreased basal body temperature (p &lt; 0.001). Given the significant dysregulation of metabolism-related genes in RNAseq analysis and changes in basal body temperature following hIL-6 induction, we next performed untargeted metabolomics on plasma from mice at baseline and 6 weeks post-induction to better evaluate metabolic changes associated with hIL-6 elevation. We found changes in key serum metabolites, including circulating adenosine triphosphate (56% reduction, p = 0.02), pyruvate (35% reduction, p = 0.0006), alpha-ketoglutarate (47% reduction, p = 0.04), and succinate (306% increase, p = 0.001). The TetO-hIL6 mouse model allows for induction of hIL-6 at various timepoints across the lifespan and demonstrates features of a frailty phenotype.
Loss of Awareness or Urinary Dysfunction? Investigating Amyloidosis and Urinary Physiology in a Transgenic Mouse
Authors: Hardy Cara , Ramasamy Ramalakshmi , Rosenberg Dawn , Scarpa Philip , Hu Xiangyou , Kuchel George , Smith Phillip 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastating disorder primarily affecting older adults and is the most common neurodegenerative disease in the US. More than one in three AD patients experience AD-associated urinary dysfunction (ADUD), which directly contributes to their institutionalization. While ADUD has been clinically regarded as a result of poor cognitive control over urinary function, the physiology underlying loss of urinary control remains unknown. We hypothesize that amyloidosis in the CNS results in pathologic changes in urinary structure and function. Tg-APP/PS1DE9 mice were used before plaque deposition (4-6 months) and after plaque accumulation (8-10 months) and compared to WT littermates. Behavioral assays (open field testing and voiding spot assays) were performed to assess cortical function. Pressure-flow cystometry was conducted under urethane anesthesia to assess autonomic control of urinary function without cortical influence. Pharmacomyography of bladder strips was used to determine tissue-level changes in the absence of CNS input. In Tg-APP/PS1DE9 mice, plaque accumulation resulted in significant cystometric changes to voiding phase parameters, but not storage phase parameters. Pharmacologic studies showed decreased sensitivity to adrenergic stimulation without change in muscarinic sensitivity. Behavioral assays demonstrated significant differences between transgenic animals and WT in locomotion and voiding spot sizes. We interpret our data to support AD-related pathology of Aβ accumulation results in a distinct urinary phenotype in our model, analogous to the ADUD observed in AD patients. Establishing and verifying models of ADUD may improve the efficacy of treating ADUD and increase quality of life for patients and their caregivers.
COVID Challenges and Adaptations Among Home-Based Medical Practices: Lessons for an Ongoing Pandemic
Authors: Ritchie Christine , Sheehan Orla , Gallopyn Naomi , Sharieff Shanaz , Brody Abraham , Leff Bruce 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Home-based primary care (HBPC) practices rapidly adapted to maintain care during the COVID-19 pandemic. This mixed-methods national online survey of HBPC practices probed responses to COVID-19 surges, COVID-19 testing, the use of telemedicine, practice challenges due to COVID-19, and adaptations to address these challenges. Seventy-nine practices across 29 states were included in the analyses. Eighty-five percent of practices continued to provide in-person care and nearly half cared for COVID-19 patients. Most practices also pivoted to concurrent use of video visits. The top five practice challenges were: patient familiarity with telemedicine, patient and clinician anxiety, technical difficulties reaching patients, and supply shortages. Practices also described creative strategies to physically support the needs of patients. These findings illustrate the need to balance in-person and virtual care for this population, and attend to the emotional needs of patients and staff.
Loneliness and Isolation Versus Wisdom and Compassion During the Pandemic
Authors: Jeste Dilip 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Our studies of US national-level samples across adult lifespan as well as older adults in California and in Italy’s Cilento region have found a consistently strong inverse correlation between loneliness and wisdom, especially its compassion component. Loneliness and social isolation are associated with worse physical and mental health while the reverse is true for wisdom and compassion. Follow-up of older adults in San Diego during the Covid-19 pandemic showed no change in this pattern. While the effects of the pandemic and the necessary social distancing were heterogeneous, older adults generally handled these stresses better than younger adults, with less loneliness and greater compassion. Our recent studies assessing EEG responses to emotional stimuli as well as alpha and beta diversity in gut microbiome showed opposing biological patterns characterizing loneliness and wisdom. I will also present preliminary data from a compassion training intervention to reduce loneliness among older adults.
Addressing Systemic Racism by Creating a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Department Initiative
Authors: Chow Stephanie , Brown Katherine , Sanon Martine , Perez Sasha , Kelley Amy , Javier Noelle Marie 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background: Catalyzed by social injustice and worsening racial inequities highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, a diverse academic geriatrics and palliative medicine department in NYC launched a DEI initiative. This report presents key program components and lessons learned in launching this initiative in the interprofessional academic medicine setting. Methods: First, DEI core and departmental administration met 2-4 times/month to plan and review program activities, vision, and mission. The team conducted confidential roundtable discussions about DEI issues and 1:1 interviews to assess needs. A monthly Humanities, Arts, and Books (HAB) Initiative provided a safe space for discussion and learning. The HAB platform supported a longitudinal curriculum emphasizing (1) group discussion and self-reflection on DEI concerns, (2) knowledge dissemination including a “Learning Pathway” series, and (3) skill-based workshops. With each event, we collected anonymous feedback. Comments were systematically recorded and an engagement evaluation was conducted to iteratively shape future sessions. Departmental administration was engaged to track DEI-focused measures of recruitment, career advancement, and retention. Finally, we centralized DEI activities on a departmental website, including an anonymous online feedback box. Results: Quantitative and qualitative assessment of DEI initiatives are forthcoming. Metrics include DEI and professional development surveys, departmental demographic and diversity measures, increase in DEI-related projects and grants, and individual participation in DEI programs. Conclusions: Creating a strong and sustainable DEI initiative within an academic medical setting requires a passionate and diverse core team, deliberate backing by administration, and thoughtful dissemination of sensitive content in the midst of a highly charged social justice landscape.
Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 on Family Caregivers of Persons Living With Dementia in the Community
Authors: McAiney Carrie , Conway Emma , Koch Melissa , Middleton Laura , Keller Heather , Dupuis Sherry , Dupuis Kate , Boger Jennifer 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
COVID-19 public health measures have significantly impacted persons living with dementia (PLWD) and family caregivers (FCGs). Given the restrictions on in-person services, many PLWD were not able to access their usual supports and activities, resulting in FCGs stepping in to support exercise, leisure, socialization, spirituality, and activities of daily living. At the same time, FCGs’ own support networks were significantly reduced or no longer available. We conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with 20 FCGs of PLWD in the community to explore the impact of COVID-19 on their well-being. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Caregiving during COVID-19 was described as ‘draining’ and ‘stressful’, with the support needs of PLWD increasing at a time when fewer supports were available. Reaching out to others, using technology, and setting boundaries were strategies FCGs used to cope. Despite the considerable impacts of COVID-19, FCGs of PLWD demonstrated their resilience in supporting themselves and their PLWD.
The M. Powell Lawton Award Lecture: The Person-Environment Fit Framework, Older Adults, and Technology Interactions
Authors: Dobbs Debra 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The lecture will be given by the 2020 recipient, Sara Czaja, PhD, FGSA of Weill Cornell Medicine. The 2021 M. Powell Lawton Award recipient is David Roth, Phd, FGSA, of Johns Hopkins University. The M. Powell Lawton Award is presented annually to an individual who has made outstanding contributions from applied research that has benefited older people and their care. The Lawton Award is generously funded by the Polisher Research Institute of Abramson Senior Care.
The Cost Efficiency of Home Modifications to Reduce Health Care Costs
Authors: Abraham Jesse 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The existing quantity of housing dedicated for older adults is not sufficient to meet the needs of this growing population. And even as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services reimbursement structures are shifting from traditional inpatient and outpatient settings to care in the home, it is a commonplace that most homes were not designed or built to support the needs of aging residents or the provision of healthcare. It is time for America’s 100 million existing houses to be made as safe and accessible as possible for aging in place. Falls cost over $50 billion a year in medical expenses. This paper distills current knowledge regarding healthcare cost reductions from home modifications, and then calculates the cost efficiency to society and to the federal government of providing government subsidies for home modifications for older adults at the ages of 50, 65 and 75. Cost sharing among insurers, government and the beneficiary is one way to achieve the positive social returns.
Financial Changes and Health During COVID-19 in the National Health and Aging Trends Study
Authors: Samuel Laura , Hladek Melissa , Cudjoe Thomas , Drazich Brittany , Li Qiwei , Szanton Sarah 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This study tested associations between income decline and financial difficulty with mental health (lack of feeling anxious/depressed, recurring thoughts/nightmares, avoiding activities/thoughts, feeling jumpy/on guard) and sleep quality during COVID-19 among a national sample of 3,188 older adults. Approximately 8% of US older adults reported income decline and 6% reported financial difficulty. Although income decline and financial difficulty rates were both statistically significantly higher among those financially strained before COVID-19 (19% and 34%, respectively), income decline was more common among those with incomes ≥200% of the poverty threshold (9%) whereas financial difficulty was more common among those with incomes &lt;200% poverty (10%). Adjusting for sociodemographic, health and depressive symptoms before COVID-19, financial difficulty was associated with worse mental health (b= -2.39, p&lt;0.001) and sleep quality (b=-0.820, p&lt;0.001), but income loss was not (b= -0.685, p=0.092 and b= -0.405, p=0.082, respectively). Timely interventions are needed for older adults reporting COVID-19 financial difficulty.
COVID-19 Recommendations for Assisted Living: Implications for the Future
Authors: Vipperman Andrew , Zimmerman Sheryl , Sloane Philip 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Similar to nursing homes, COVID-19 has challenged assisted living (AL), given its congregate nature and vulnerable residents. However, COVID-19 recommendations have not consistently recognized differences between nursing homes and AL, and in so doing present implications for the future of AL. This project examined COVID-19 recommendations from six key organizations and compared them across nursing homes and AL. Differences include recommending more flexible visitation and group activities for AL, while similarities suggest that AL may best integrate health care into offered services (e.g., work with consulting clinicians who know residents and the AL community). Primary points to be discussed are that COVID-19 may accelerate the closer coordination of social work and medical care into AL, because recommendations suggest AL would benefit from the services and expertise of nurses, social workers, and physicians. There seems to be an unmet need to mitigate loneliness in AL, which warrants specific attention moving forward.
Exploring the Concept of the Ethical Will as a Way to Leave a Legacy of Values: A Scoping Review
Authors: Neller Sarah , Towsley Gail , McFarland Mary 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Ethical wills communicate a legacy of values through non-legal emotional and supportive instruction to others and are distinct from legal or living wills. Employed for centuries, little is known about how and why ethical wills are used. We conducted the first scoping review on ethical wills to survey the breadth of published information and identify how they are defined and utilized. We followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews employing an a priori protocol and PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines . We searched 14 databases in November 2019 and January 2021 without filtering publication date or type. Our final extraction form included frequently used terms describing content, purpose, and outcomes. Two reviewers independently screened 1,568 results. Final extraction included 51 documents from 1997-2020, which were primarily published in lay or peer-reviewed journals within law, estate and financial planning, and religion; only 6 research articles were identified. Most frequently, descriptors characterized ethical wills as a non-material legacy of values, beliefs, wisdom, and life lessons learned written to family or future generations. Ethical wills were utilized most to be remembered, address mortality, clarify life’s meaning, and communicate what matters most. They provided opportunity to learn about self, were considered a gift to both writer and recipient and fostered intergenerational interaction and transcendence. Our findings highlight interdisciplinary utilization and dearth of research on ethical wills. Gerontological research is needed to explore ways ethical wills can be used to enhance generativity and intentional living as individuals age and prepare for the end of life.
Discrete Emotion Profiles in Old Age: Stability and Change for Better or Worse
Authors: Hamm Jeremy , Wrosch Carsten , Barlow Meaghan , Kunzmann Ute 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Although discrete emotions can change in salience across adulthood, little is known about developmental shifts in the co-occurrence of multiple discrete emotions. The present study (n=389, Mage=73) adopted a person-centered approach to identify stability and change in commonly-occurring profiles of calmness, excitement, sadness, and anger. Daily emotions were assessed over 1-week periods at baseline and two years later. Latent class analyses yielded consistent 3-profile solutions at both waves: a positive emotion (high calmness-moderate excitement-low sadness and anger), a mixed emotion (moderate/high calmness-moderate excitement, sadness, and anger), and an apathetic emotion profile (low calmness, excitement, sadness, and anger). Latent transition analyses revealed both stability (82% remained in the same profile) and change (18% changed profiles) in profile membership. Higher baseline optimism and fewer chronic conditions were associated with adaptive changes in profile membership. Findings point to the importance of considering the co-occurrence of distinct emotions in studying emotional aging.
Daily Social Interactions and Well-Being in Older Adults: The Role of Interaction Modality
Authors: Hueluer Gizem , Macdonald Birthe , Luo Minxia 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Older adults increasingly use digital communication technologies to stay connected to others. In the present study, we examine the role of social interactions for older adults’ daily well-being focusing on three interaction modalities (face-to-face, telephone, and digital). We use data from 116 participants (age: M = 72 years, SD = 5, range = 65 to 94; 41% women), who reported on their social interactions and well-being over 21 days. Our findings show that frequency of face-to-face interactions is more consistently related to well-being than telephone or digital interactions. On days where participants report more face-to-face social interactions than their own average, they report higher positive affect and lower loneliness than usual. Similar effects are not found for telephone or digital interactions. In summary, our findings suggest that face-to-face social interactions are uniquely relevant to older adults’ daily well-being. We discuss implications of these findings for future research.
Conducting Community-Based Qualitative Research With LGBTQ Older Adults of Color During COVID-19
Authors: Oswald Austin , Guess Aundaray 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
COVID-19 continues to transform the way scientists conduct research with study participants, particularly older adults who are at high risk of becoming seriously ill from the virus. For older adults who may be negatively affected by the digital divide, inclusive data collection practices become even more nuanced. Qualitative researchers moving their research into digital spaces must think critically about their use of technology, and how it affects the quality of data as well as the participant experience. This presentation highlights ethical and methodological considerations from a completely digital, community-based, qualitative research study conducted alongside LGBTQ older adults of color during COVID-19. Strategies to build and strengthen community partnerships are discussed along with challenges and opportunities for collecting data in the current digital landscape. Publicly available records are identified as a potential data source to understand the lives of LGBTQ older adults of color when in-person research is not feasible.