bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Associations of Habitual Sleep Duration and Sleep Stages With Speech-in-Noise Performance
Authors: Jiang Kening , Spira Adam , Full Kelsie , Garcia Emmanuel , Lin Frank , Reed Nicholas , Lutsey Pamela , Deal Jennifer 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Speech-in-noise performance involves central auditory and cortical processing and is fundamental to communication. We investigated cross-temporal associations of habitual sleep duration and stages (1996-1998) with speech-in-noise performance (2016-2017) in a subset of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study participated in the Sleep Heart Health Study(N=755, 61±5 years, 53% female). Speech-in-noise performance was measured by Quick Speech-in-Noise Test; range:0-30; lower scores=worse performance. Time spent in each stage (stage 1;2;3/4;rapid eye movement (REM)) was measured by polysomnography. Habitual sleep duration was calculated by self-reported duration on weekdays and weekends. In models adjusting for demographic and disease covariates, every 10-minute increase in REM sleep was associated with better speech-in-noise performance (0.10 points,95% CI:0.00,0.21); every 1-hour increase in habitual sleep duration was associated with worse speech-in-noise performance (-1.28 points,95% CI:-2.49,-0.08) among participants sleep &gt;8 hours. Long sleep duration might be a risk marker of speech-in-noise performance, but REM sleep might be a protective factor.
Stakeholder-Based Methods to Develop a Toolkit to Promote Engagement in Assisted Living Safety
Authors: Beeber Anna , Anderson Ruth , Hoben Matthias , Chamberlain Stephanie , Bartoldus Victoria , Palmertree Stephanie 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This presentation provides and overview of a mixed-methods stakeholder engaged study to develop a toolkit to encourage resident and family engagement in the safety of assisted living (AL). This study uses stakeholder-based data and stakeholder engaged processes to adapt existing tools and strategies from other settings to encourage resident and family engagement in the safety of AL. We will improve resident safety in AL by developing an evidence-based tool to implement these engagement tools/strategies in AL. The presentation will outline the theoretical base, the approach for this study, including efforts to recruit and retain stakeholders throughout the study, and stakeholder engaged process to develop the toolkit. The presentation will include challenges and strategies to encourage participation of AL staff, residents, and family caregivers in the study. The presentation will conclude with a discussion of implications for future design and research efforts aiming to impact AL care, policy, and research implementation.
Unbiased Proteomics and Targeted Biomarkers Associated With Exceptional Longevity and Multimorbidity in Humans
Authors: Odden Michelle 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Biomarkers ideal for geroscience trials could be those simultaneously identified using targeted and discovery assays and which strongly associate with complementary disease (multimorbidity) and longevity (exceptional survival) outcomes. To identify a tractable set of biomarkers for use in geroscience trials, we used the Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS), whose participant makeup closely aligns with the Targeting Aging with MEtformin (TAME) trial. In ~4800 CHS participants, quantitative assays of nine a priori-identified biomarkers were used to construct a biomarker index which strongly associated with the TAME primary outcome of mortality and multimorbidity over 6 and 10 years of follow-up. In ~3000 CHS participants, 1300 proteins were measured with unbiased aptamer proteomics and associated with survival to age 90 over 25 years of follow-up. Proteins in the biomarker index were identified as some of the strongest associated with survival to 90. This convergent evidence suggests these biomarkers may be well-suited for geroscience trials.
Alzheimer’s Disease Among American Minority Populations: An Ecological Exploratory Study
Authors: LaQuaglia Maria , de Souza Marina Celly Martins Ribeiro , Borges Carolina Marques 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
A significant public health concern with regards to increasing rates of Alzheimer’s is that it disproportionately affects minority groups in the United States. The present ecological exploratory study uses secondary aggregate data from the fifty United States in the year of 2019. The purpose of this study was to address the disparities in Alzheimer’s in minority populations in the US and explore associated factors. The “minority” populations considered were African American and Latino populations, and the “majority” population was referred to as “white”. The data was extracted from the United States Census Bureau, the CDC National Center for Health Statistics, and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Dataset. The prevalence rates of Alzheimer’s disease are greatest in both older Latinos (12.2%) and African Americans (13.8%), compared to older whites (10.3%) in the investigated time period. Our results showed that being over 65 years old (p=.009), with a below-average ($62,843) median household income (p=.024), history of stroke (p=.029), and being a part of the Latino population (p=.036), were significantly associated with Alzheimer’s mortality rates in the United States. By identifying disparities in access to Alzheimer’s healthcare and at-risk communities, more comprehensive intervention strategies can be developed to promote change and advocate for more Alzheimer’s education and resource allocation for minority populations.
Disrupting the Status Quo: The New Normal of Family Caregivers’ Service Use
Authors: Moss Karen , Cimarolli Verena , Rose Karen 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Family caregivers are essential partners in chronic disease management for older adults. However, being a family caregiver can have negative mental and physical health consequences, making it important for some caregivers to rely on supportive services, either for themselves (e.g. support groups) or to get help with caregiving tasks (e.g. home care). Supportive service use by family caregivers is well documented; yet, this research has often not included specific subgroups of caregivers (e.g. the racially/ethnically, or geographically diverse). Hence, the purpose of this symposium is to share new findings from research on supportive service use in understudied caregiving populations. First, Dr. Cimarolli presents findings from a study on the types of supportive services long-distance caregivers use for themselves and the factors associated with supportive service use in this caregiver population. Then, Dr. Wyman reports findings from a survey on the use of home and community-based resources by family caregivers in a Native American community. Dr. Wright will share the results of a systematic review of self-care interventions designed for caregivers of African Americans living with dementia. Finally, Dr. Mavandadi presents the results of a study examining the effectiveness of a telephone-based, collaborative dementia care program for improving outcomes in caregivers of military veterans living with dementia. Dr. Karen Rose will discuss the implications of each of these study findings for the development and evaluation of supportive interventions for these specialized family caregiver groups.
A Systematic Review of Self-Care Interventions for African American Family Caregivers
Authors: Wright Kathy , Ko Eunjung , Moss Karen , O'Brien Tara , Wold Loren , Rose Karen 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
African Americans (AA) family caregivers provide the bulk of unpaid care to persons living with dementia (PLWD). This role leaves little time for the adoption of self-care behaviors—critical to the prevention and management of chronic diseases. In this systematic review, we appraise caregiver self-care interventions that include AA caregivers of PLWD. PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched. Terms included AA/Black, self-care, caregiving, lifestyle, intervention, psychological stress, and faith/community. We initially found 250 references and after application of exclusion criteria and removal of redundant references, 18 articles were analyzed. Most interventions focused on impacting levels of caregiver burden, depression, physical activity, anxiety, or wellbeing. Psychoeducation, physical activity, and spiritually-focused interventions were most effective in improving outcomes in caregivers. Future studies should examine the impact of interventions on the prevention and management of chronic disease in AA caregivers of PLWD.
The Moderating Effect of Caregiver Engagement in Transitional Care Intervention Outcomes: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Levoy Kristin , Rivera Eleanor , McHugh Molly , Hanlon Alexandra , Hirschman Karen , Naylor Mary 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
As chronically ill adults age, increased fluctuations in health status result in frequent care transitions. Caregiver engagement is often a core component of evidence-based transitional care interventions, yet little is known about the relative contribution of this element to observed outcomes. This meta-analysis aimed to synthesize evidence of caregiver engagement in randomized control trials (RCT’s) of transitional care interventions, estimate the overall intervention effects on all-cause hospital readmissions, and test caregiver engagement as a moderator of interventions’ effects. Relative risk was the effect size, and the overall effect was estimated using inverse variance weighting. Fifty-four studies met criteria, representing 31,399 participants and 65 effect sizes. The weighted sample mean age was 64 years. The majority (64%) of interventions targeted participants with specific diagnoses, such as heart disease, but more than half (54%) lacked caregiver engagement components. Among all reviewed studies of transitional care interventions, the overall effect on all-cause readmissions at 1 month was non-significant (p=.123, k=28). However, intervention effects at 2 or more months were significant (RR=0.89, 95% CI: 0.82, 0.97, p=.007, k=26), indicating a 12% reduction in the relative risk of all-cause readmissions among intervention participants compared to controls. Caregiver engagement was found to moderate intervention effects (p=.05). Specifically, interventions that included caregiver engagement produced more robust effects (RR=0.83, 95% CI: 0.75, 0.92, p=.001), than those without such engagement (RR=0.97, 95% CI: 0.87, 1.08, p=.550). Findings suggest that transitional care interventions need to more explicitly engage caregivers as active partners in order to optimize patient outcomes.
Connecticut’s Veterans-Directed Care Program Outcomes Compared to HCBS Waiver Participants: HCBS CAHPS Results
Authors: Kellett Kathy , Porter Martha , Wakefield Dorothy , Robison Julie 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Connecticut (CT) Veterans Directed Home and Community Based Services Program (VDC) is an innovative Veterans Administration (VA) services option providing veterans at risk of institutionalization with person-centered consumer-directed long-term services and supports at home. Funded by an Administration for Community Living grant, the CT Department of Aging and Disability Services partnered with the VA, the five CT Area Agencies on Aging, and UConn Health Center on Aging (UConn). UConn researchers conducted the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems in Home and Community Based Services (HCBS CAHPS) survey with VDC participants (n=36) from October 2019 through March 2020. The standardized, validated HCBS CAHPS survey, which Connecticut administers to individuals in most CT Medicaid HCBS programs, is a universal, cross-disability tool to assess/improve the quality of HCBS programs. Analyses compared VDC participants’ program experiences to survey results from individuals in the Connecticut Home Care Program (CHCP) (for older adults) (n=629), Personal Care Assistance (PCA) (n=282), and Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) (n=327) waiver programs. Notably, more VDC participants (91%) knew who their support broker was, compared to CHCP, ABI, and PCA (82%, 79%, and 72%, respectively) who knew their case manager; 91% of VDC participants gave their support broker the highest rating, compared to 66% to 74% of participants in other programs who rated their case manager. This study provides strong evidence that the CT VDC program is positively impacting veterans and that the AAAs and support brokers are effectively helping them receive the HCBS they need in a consumer-directed way.
NIA Division of Behavioral and Social Research Priorities in Health Disparities
Authors: Bandiera Frank 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This presentation will include priority research areas in health disparities in the NIA Division of Behavioral and Social Research (BSR). It will include a portfolio analysis and description of BSR program and research in health disparities. Specifically, the 2019 BSR National Advisory Committee on Aging (NACA) recommended BSR’s number one research priority in health disparities. In 2020 BSR held a workshop on structural racism. BSR supports funding announcements in health disparities in Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias, sleep, Native American Health, and immigration among others. Key themes for BSR include racial disparities that often center on context and resources, that is, factors such as residential segregation, rurality, individual and neighborhood SES, and access to health care; persistent racial differences in chronic health conditions; disparities in health systems; immigration and nativity closely linked with race and health outcomes; and racial discrimination linked to poorer mental health and psychological stress.
Faculty Perceptions of Engaging Older Adults in Higher Education: The Need for Intergenerational Pedagogy
Authors: Dauenhauer Jason , Hazzan Afeez , Heffernan Kristin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Institutions of higher education need to become more age friendly. Creating an on-campus lifelong learning program can offer older adults opportunities to audit classes and engage in multigenerational classrooms, but can also promote intergenerational learning when instructors consciously use pedagogy that fosters engagement between learners from various generations. Promoting intergenerational learning to facilitate reciprocal sharing of expertise between generations is also the fourth principle of the Age Friendly University framework. This qualitative interview study examines the perspectives of 27 faculty members who have opened their face to face classrooms to older adult auditors to 1) Explore perceived benefits and challenges associated with having older adults in the college classroom and to 2) Determine what levels of intergenerational learning may be taking place. Compared to lecture-based courses, faculty whose pedagogy promotes discussion, sharing, and small group work reported detailed examples of older adult learners and traditionally-aged college students engaging in course-related discussion. The unique, historical and diverse perspectives of older adults improved the quality of education for students, and fostered in-depth learning. Challenges related to older adult auditors included poor/limited attendance, sharing of strong opinions/dominating class discussion, sensory/mobility and technology accessibility. Recommendations include training to promote intergenerational engagement in college classrooms.
FOXO3, Telomere Dynamics, and Healthy Brain Aging: A COBRE Study
Authors: Kallianpur Kalpana , Willcox Bradley , Masaki Kamal , Allsopp Richard 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Human longevity is linked to genetic, cellular, and other complex biological and psychosocial traits. Aging is typically accompanied by gradual brain atrophy and cognitive decline, but the mechanisms are unclear. Cellular aging, characterized by telomere shortening and altered telomerase activity, is related to mortality and brain aging. Decelerated brain aging is associated with greater peripheral blood leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and, we hypothesize, may be linked to FOXO3 genotype. We will use MRI to assess brain structure and function cross-sectionally in 100 Kuakini Honolulu Heart Program Offspring. Atrophy and disrupted functional connectivity, markers of brain aging, will be examined in relation to FOXO3 and LTL. Associations between brain structural and functional differences, FOXO3 genotype and LTL will be investigated over a wide range of ages, controlling for other biological and psychosocial factors. Results may provide insight into mechanisms influencing the rate of brain aging, and may eventually extend human healthspan.
Effects of Self-Perceptions of Aging on Social Disconnectedness and Loneliness in Older Adults
Authors: Hu Rita Xiaochen 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Research shows that self-perceptions of aging (SPA) predict physical, mental, cognitive, and emotional well-being in older adults. Few studies have examined SPA’s effects on social well-being. Using data from the 2014–2018 Health and Retirement Study, we examined SPA’s effects on older adults’ social connectedness and loneliness (age 65+, N = 3,808). SPA was measured by eight items. Social connectedness was operationalized by network size, social contact, and social participation. The UCLA Loneliness Scale assessed loneliness. Linear regression results show that more positive SPA is correlated with increased social connectedness (b = 0.05 SE = 0.01 p = 0.0003) and decreased loneliness (b = -0.09 SE = 0.02 p &lt; 0.0001) in four years, controlling for sociodemographic and health characteristics. Further, loneliness is a mediator between SPA and social connectedness. Findings suggest that older adults with negative SPA are at risk of both objective and subjective social isolation.
Neuronal Excitatory State Is Linked to Stress Resilience
Authors: Zullo Joseph , Yankner Bruce 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The aging human brain is a study in both the importance and limitations of human stress response factors. Individual neurons can maintain functionality for 80 or more years, testifying to the potency of their stress response pathways. However, failure of these pathways during aging drastically increases the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. The transcriptional repressor REST is induced in the brains of long-lived humans but is lost in neurodegenerative disease. Here, we explore one modality of REST’s protective effects: regulation of neuronal excitability. We show that excitatory capacity and stress response are inversely correlated in the human brain. We find that REST and its C. elegans orthologs repress neuronal excitation in response to stressful conditions. Further, exogenously suppressing neuronal excitation restores stress resistance to REST-deficient animals, while enhancing stress response in wildtype ones. Thus, regulation of neuronal activity is an important aspect of neuronal stress response and a potential therapeutic modality.
Improving Self-Care of Informal Caregivers of Adults With Frontotemporal Degeneration
Authors: Massimo Lauren , Sharkey Michelle , Fisher Lauren 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) is a common cause of young-onset dementia that results in progressive deterioration in executive functioning and social comportment. A tremendous burden is placed on young caregivers, typically spouses, who often sacrifice their own self-care needs in order to manage the cognitive decline and subsequent functional impairments of their loved one, contributing to extraordinarily high levels of stress and depression in caregivers of individuals with FTD. Very few interventions have been tested specifically in FTD caregivers, and those that exist have generally focused on education around patient behavior management. In this session, we will discuss how we adapted the iCare4Me study, originally designed for heart failure caregivers, for caregivers of persons with FTD and we will share initial findings from iCare4Me for FTD, a randomized controlled trial which evaluates the efficacy of a virtual health coach intervention aimed at increasing self-care behaviors and reducing stress in FTD caregivers.
Planning for Seniors Housing in Changing Cities: Lessons Learned From a Cross-National Exchange
Authors: Sheppard Christine , Perry Tam , Kobayashi Karen , Cloutier Denise , Mehmood Yasir , Helfand-Green Emma , Hitzig Sander 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Across North America, a growing number of older adults have a core housing need and lack access to affordable, suitable or adequate housing. Although federal, state/provincial and local backdrops vary across Canadian and American contexts, seniors’ housing providers in both countries face similar challenges and must develop innovative policy and program responses to help older adults age in place. We hosted an international seniors’ housing conference to create a platform for cross-national collaboration among multidisciplinary seniors housing experts. This event offered an opportunity to exchange best practices, emerging research, and policy solutions, and establish a set of shared priorities for advancing seniors housing that were applicable to two nations with different social systems. This paper will reflect on the exchange of knowledge and best practices related to housing preservation, eviction prevention, and access to supports during COVID-19, and the lessons learned fostering a cross-national collaborative network of seniors housing experts.
Sleep Disturbances and the Speed of Multimorbidity Development in Old Age
Authors: Calderón-Larrañaga Amaia , Pérez Laura , Vetrano Davide , Triolo Federico , Sjöberg Linnea , Darin-Mattsson Alexander , Inzitari Marco , Sindi Shireen 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Sleep disturbances are prevalent among older adults and are associated with various individual diseases. The goal of this study was to investigate whether sleep disturbances are associated with the speed of multimorbidity development among older adults. Data were gathered from the Swedish National study of Aging and Care in Kungsholmen (SNAC-K), an ongoing population-based study of subjects aged 60+ (N=3363). The study included a subsample (n=1189) without multimorbidity at baseline (&lt;2 chronic diseases). Baseline sleep disturbances were assessed using the Comprehensive Psychiatric Rating Scale, and categorized as none, mild, moderate-severe. The number of chronic conditions throughout the nine-year follow-up was obtained from clinical examinations. Linear mixed models were used to study the association between sleep disturbances and the speed of chronic diseases accumulation, adjusting for sex, age, education, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, depression, pain, and psychotropic drug use. We repeated the analyses including only cardiovascular, neuropsychiatric, and musculoskeletal diseases as the outcome. Moderate-severe sleep disturbances were associated with a higher speed of chronic disease accumulation (ß/year=0.142, p=0.008), regardless of potential confounders. Significant positive associations were also found between moderate-severe sleep disturbances and neuropsychiatric (ß/year=0.041, p=0.016) and musculoskeletal (ß/year=0.038, p=0.025) disease accumulation, but not with cardiovascular diseases. Results remained stable when participants with baseline dementia, cognitive impairment, or depression were excluded. The finding that sleep disturbances are associated with faster chronic disease accumulation points towards the importance of early detection and treatment of sleep disturbances as a possible strategy to reduce chronic multimorbidity among older adults.