bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Moderating Effect of Social Support Between Loneliness and Depression: Young-Old and Old-Old Adults
Authors: Cho Sunghwan , Chung Kyuhyung 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Depression increases suicidal risk lowers quality of life in older adults. However, it is unknown how loneliness and depression are associated with young-old and old-older adults. This study examined association of loneliness and depression from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP) (2015-2016), estimating moderating effects of social support. The sample of this study was community dwelling Medicare beneficiaries aged 65+ (n=1,532): young-older adults (n=903) and old-older adults (n=629). Loneliness was measured by the Revised University of California, Los Angeles Loneliness Scale short form (3 items; young, M=.86, SD=.73; old, M=.87, SD=.67; range 0-3). Social support consists of two variables each measured by 4 items, spouse/partner support (young, M=2.29, SD=.50; old, M=2.26, SD=.51; range 0-3) and family support (young-old, M=2.19, SD=.52; old-old, M=2.23, SD=.52; range 0-3). Depression was measured by Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale (11 items, young, M=1.41, SD=.42; old, M=1.45, SD=.42; range 1-4). Multiple linear regression was used in this study, including relevant covariates. Findings indicated loneliness in both groups (young, p&lt;.001; old, p&lt;.001), spouse support in both groups (young, p&lt;.001; old, p&lt;.001) had statistical significance in depression. Family support in young-older adults (p&lt;.05) had a statistical significance for depression. Interaction of loneliness and spouse support moderated the relationship between loneliness and depression in old-older adults (p&lt;.05). Findings suggest old-older adults’ loneliness and depression could be soothed by spousal support. Spousal support could be important in that the informal caregiver is likely to focus on older adults with fragility at the end of their lives.
Biological Aging in Breast Cancer Survivors and the Role of Sleep
Authors: Carroll Judith 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Although cancer treatments can prolong life, they may lead to long-term changes in physical health and well-being. The lasting symptoms experienced after cancer treatment include greater fatigue, pain, cognitive complaints, and functional decline. Cancer and its related cytotoxic treatments are proposed to directly altering biological aging pathways. Our recent findings support this hypothesis, suggesting that women with breast cancer exposed to therapy have alterations in indicators of biological aging, including elevated DNA damage, reduced telomerase activity, and more rapid epigenetic aging. There was variability in risk for signs of biological aging, and given the high prevalence of sleep problems among breast cancer survivors, we sought to examine whether healthy sleep might be protective. Results suggest that those with good sleep quality had less accelerated biological aging than those with sleep problems. Results point to healthy sleep as a modifiable target to protect women with breast cancer from experiencing biological aging.
Well-Being Factors That Relate to Facebook-Using Older Adults’ Perceived Social Support on Facebook
Authors: Schuster Amy , Kadylak Travis , Cotten Shelia 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The majority of literature on Facebook use and well-being focuses on younger demographics. The number older adults using Facebook continues to increase. Facebook use by older adults has been found to increase well-being and decrease feelings of depression. This study investigates the effect that perceived social support on Facebook may have on loneliness, depression, social support (offline), and fear of missing out (FOMO) for older adult Facebook users. Older adults aged 65 and older in the U.S. completed a Qualtrics survey (N=798). Participants were, on average, 74 years old. Perceived social support on Facebook had a positive association with social support, depression, and FOMO. The results suggest that among Facebook using older adults, higher levels of perceived social support on Facebook were associated with higher levels of social support, feelings of depression, and FOMO. Future research should investigate the possibility that depression could be driving perceived social support on Facebook.
A Study on the Development and Validation of an Intergenerational Solidarity Measuring Tool Using Mixed Methods
Authors: Chae Joosuk , Nam Seok In 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Intergenerational conflicts caused by rapid socioeconomic changes have highlighted the importance of strengthening intergenerational solidarity, emphasizing the necessity of tool designed to measure intergenerational solidarity. This study developed a standardized intergenerational solidarity measurement tool using mixed methods. In the qualitative research stage, 27 main survey questions were derived through literature research, in-depth interviews, and content validity verification. In the quantitative research stage, based on the results of a survey of 1,109 adults, both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses of the questions were conducted, and the validity of the questions was confirmed. The analysis results were used to develop a 10-item measurement tool consisting of two factors: “recognition of intergenerational solidarity in the family” and “recognition of social intergenerational solidarity.” This study is the first attempt to develop a standardized measure of intergenerational solidarity, and it can be used for nationwide panel surveys in academic and policy research.
Health Risks Posed by Social and Linguistic Isolation in Older Korean Americans
Authors: Park Juyoung , Jang Yuri , Yoon Hyunwoo , Park Nan Sook , Chiriboga David , Kim Miyong 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Guided by the double jeopardy hypothesis, the present study examined the health risks posed by the coexistence of social and linguistic isolation in older Korean Americans. Using data from the Study of Older Korean Americans (SOKA, n = 2,032), comparisons of four isolation typologies (no isolation, social isolation only, linguistic isolation only, and dual isolation) were made, and their impacts on physical (self-rated health), mental (mental distress), and cognitive health (cognitive performance) were examined. The ‘dual isolation’ group exhibited greater sociodemographic and health disadvantages. The odds of having fair/poor health, mental distress, and cognitive impairment were 2.21-3.17 times higher in the ‘dual isolation’ group than those in the group with no isolation. Our findings confirm that both social relationships and language proficiency are key elements for older immigrants’ social connectedness and integration, deprivation of which puts them at risk in multidimensions of health.
The Effect of Traumatic Brain Injury on Alzheimer’s Disease and Cognitive Decline in Veterans and Non-Veterans
Authors: Akushevich Igor , Yashkin Arseniy , Nikitin Stanislav Kolpakov , Kravchenko Julia 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
We assess the differences in the effect of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on the decline in cognitive status and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (AD/ADRD) between veteran and non-veteran respondents of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and measure the sensitivity of these differences to the incremental introduction of controls for associated risk factors. Three groups of AD/ADRD risk-related variables were used: i) demographic/socioeconomic factors, including gender, race, marital status, education, income, and the number of limitations in activities of daily living; ii) comorbidities, including co-existing depression/post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD), substance (alcohol, tobacco and/or prescription drug) abuse, diabetes mellitus, stroke, and heart failure; and iii) genetic factors, including the presence of at least one pair of the APOE4 allele and a series of polygenic risk scores associated with AD hallmarks. The dynamics of changes in cognitive impairment in response to TBI, PTSD, and mild cognitive impairment were validated against respective measures estimated using the Department of Defense Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (DoD-ADNI) data. The results of the analyses showed that TBI and PTSD were strongly associated with cognitive decline and the risks of AD/ADRD in both veteran and non-veteran subpopulations in HRS data and the difference between them was not statistically significant. Effect magnitude decreased with the addition of risk-related control variables but remained associated with the increased risks. Prevalence of mild cognitive impairment was associated with TBI at baseline in DoD-ADNI data, but no cognitive decline was observed during one year of follow-up.
Caregivers Clinic at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Authors: Applebaum Allison 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The mission of the Caregivers Clinic at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) is to assure that no caregiver of an MSK patient experiencing significant distress as a result of their caregiving responsibilities goes unidentified and deprived of necessary psychosocial services. This presentation will cover the steps taken and barriers faced in the development of the Clinic, including advocating for caregivers to receive their own unique medical records. Data regarding the number of caregivers seen for psychotherapy and for medication management will be presented, as will data regarding presenting complaints and average length of care. Also included is a discussion of the challenges faced in expanding and maintaining the capacity of the Clinic, especially in the setting of the pandemic during which caregivers' use of psychosocial care at MSK is notably higher than in years past. Several current adjunct approaches to address capacity needs currently being piloted will be discussed.
Child’s Developmental Disabilities and Parental Health in Later Life: Do Parental Race and Gender Matter?
Authors: Lee Juha , Gao Manjing , Lee Chioun 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Parents, particularly mothers, who experienced early life adversities (ELAs) are more likely to have a child with developmental disabilities (DD). We have little knowledge about how parental health varies across race-gender groups among those with a DD child and the role of ELAs in the associations. Using Black and White adults (n = 8,778; 25% Blacks) from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study, we examine racial disparities in the impact of having a child with DD (vs. having healthy children) on parental health outcomes. This study questions (1) the extent to which parents’ ELAs (e.g., poverty and abuse) are associated with having a child with DD and (2) how considering early-life factors reveals racial and gender disparities in the impact of having a child with DD. We found that as the number of ELAs increases, the probability of having a healthy child decreases for all race-gender groups, but most dramatically for Black women. Having a DD has adverse effects on chronic illnesses and functional limitations more for mothers than fathers. Black women are most adversely affected, with no effect on Black men. There is no gender difference in the impact of having a DD child on depressive symptoms, yet White parents are more vulnerable than Black parents. After controlling for ELAs, the adverse effects of having a DD child on both physical and mental health remain significant. Future research should identify life-course circumstances that reveal why the impact of having a DD child varies by race and gender.
Distinct Influences of Social Activity and Social Connectedness on Depressive Symptoms in Older Adult Couples
Authors: Steele Joel , Miller Lyndsey , Wu Chao-Yi , Dodge Hiroko , Kaye Jeffrey , Lyons Karen 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This study aimed to simultaneously examine the associations between social activity and connectedness and depressive symptoms in older adult couples. Using SEM and data from 116 community-dwelling couples (age 76.18 ± 8.49), we found that engagement in social activities was associated with lower depressive symptoms in men (p = 0.014), whereas more close friendships were associated with lower depressive symptoms in women (p = 0.018), controlling for partner effects, age, education, and cognitive function (CFI: 1.00, TLI: 1.35, RMSEA: 0.00 [0.00, 0.08]). Unexpectedly, we also found better female physical health to be associated with greater depressive symptoms in males (p = 0.029). When examined as dyadic physical health, more incongruence between the physical health of partners was associated with greater depressive symptoms in men (p = 0.007). Discussion will focus on distinct influences of social activity and connectedness on mental health, and the context of gender, marriage, and dyadic health.
Caregivers' Loss of the Dyadic Experience After Their Care Partner's Death
Authors: Buck Harleah 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
One emerging dyadic concept is the experience of family caregivers when their care partner dies and their dyadic relationship comes to an end. This study qualitatively examined and characterized the loss of the dyadic experience for the caregiver after the death of their care partner. Data was accrued as part of a randomized clinical trial in 29 older hospice caregivers. Iterative thematic analysis focused on dyadic processes before, during and post death. Using two relational parameters from Relational Turbulence Theory resulted in a preliminary characterization of a new concept - dyadic dissolution as a cognitive and affective process whereby a remaining member of a dyad experiences relational uncertainty and partner interference while adapting (or not) to the death of their care partner. Findings suggest that asking several open-ended questions about the dyadic relationship will enable assessment for any continuing impact of relational uncertainty and partner interference on bereaved caregivers.
Social Contact Prior to COVID-19 and Longitudinal Mental Health Trajectories During COVID-19 Among Adults Ages ≥55
Authors: Gan Daniel R Y , Best John , Finlay Jessica 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Social support protects mental health during a crisis. We examined whether prior contact with social organizations and friends/neighbors was associated with better trajectories of loneliness, depression and self-rated memory during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted latent class analysis and regression analysis on longitudinal data from the COVID-19 Coping Study of US adults aged ≥55 from April-October 2020 (n=3105). Overall, prior contact with friends(B=-.075,p&lt;.001), neighbors(B=-.048,p=.007), and social organizations(B=-.073,p&lt;.001) predicted better mental health amid COVID-19. Three classes were identified: Class1 had the best outcomes, whereas Class3 had the worst outcomes and were most likely to live alone(B=.149,p&lt;.001). For Class1, prior contact with social organizations(B=-.052,p=.044) predicted decreasing loneliness. For Class2, prior contact with friends(B=-.075,p&lt;.001) predicted decreasing loneliness and better memory(B=-.130,p=.011). Conversely, prior contact with neighbors(B=-.165,p=.010) predicted worsening loneliness among Class3. Our findings pose new questions on the role of neighborhood networks to mitigate poor mental health outcomes among older adults during a crisis.
COVID-19’s Impact on Burden and Nutrition for Family Caregivers of People With Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: LoBuono Dara , Robin Rachel , Uygur Mehmet 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened Parkinson’s disease (PD) symptoms; however how COVID-19 has impacted family caregivers of people with PD (PwPD) is unknown. A 38-item open-and closed-ended online survey that explored caregiver burden and nutrition behaviors during COVID-19 was completed by 34 caregivers. Quantitative variables related to how COVID-19 has impacted caregiver burden are reported as percentages. Responses to open-ended questions related to COVID-19’s impact on caregiver burden and dietary behaviors were double-coded by two researchers, differences in codes were discussed until consensus was reached, and themes were finalized. The mean age of caregivers was 67.2±8.7 (47-82 years of age) and the majority were female (64.7%). Since the COVID-19 pandemic, 61.7% of caregivers felt their relationship with their PwPD stayed the same or slightly improved, 41% reported having to make a slight or increased number of adjustments to their schedules to provide care and experienced a slight or increased physical strain because of providing care. 58.8% reported a slight or increased number of times they felt sad/hopeless and 76.5% reported a slight or increased number of times they felt anxious/worried. Themes related to COVID-19’s impacts on caregiver burden included: fear, stress, and isolation; increased caregiver responsibilities; no change in caregiving. Themes highlighting COVID-19’s impact on dietary behaviors included: healthier dietary patterns; increase in snack foods and boredom eating; no change in dietary patterns. Results suggest COVID-19 has negatively impacted caregiver well-being and further exploration in changes in dietary intake are warranted.
Determining the Impact of COVID-19 on End-of-Life Experiences of Family Caregivers for People Living With Dementia
Authors: Mithani Sameer , McGhan Gwen , McCaughey Deirdre , Flemons Kristin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
COVID-19 has impacted all of our lives, but the population most at risk are older adults. Family caregivers (FCGs) for people living with dementia (PLWD) face challenges in providing care, which are compounded with the introduction of COVID-19 public health policies. The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of FCGs where the PLWD died during the COVID-19 pandemic. FCGs were invited to participate in an online survey to examine their caregiving experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the option of participating in a follow-up focus group. Sixteen FCGs whose family members with dementia died during the pandemic participated in the survey. A follow-up focus group was conducted to further examine how COVID-19 policies impacted their role as a caregiver in long-term care (LTC) and affected their ability to grieve. The results of the survey and focus group suggest that a lack of role clarity and inadequate communication channels between the FCG and LTC due to COVID-19 increased the strain FCGs faced during end-of-life care. At the end of life, public policies, such as reduced or no visitation, led to feelings of inadequacy and regret. Several participants also expressed appreciation for completing Advanced Care Planning documentation prior to COVID-19. Based on these results, policymakers can help ease the increased turmoil faced by FCGs during end-of-life care in future public health emergencies by involving FCGs of PLWD in the decision-making process. The completion of Advanced Care Planning documentation can also ease the burden FCGs may experience during end-of-life care.
Deprescribing Blood Pressure Treatment in VA Long-Term Care Residents
Authors: Odden Michelle , Lee Sei , Steinman Michael , Rubinsky Anna , Jing Bocheng , Fung Kathy , Graham Laura , Peralta Carmen 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
There is growing interest in deprescribing of antihypertensive medications in response to adverse effects, or when a patient’s situation evolves such that the benefits are outweighed by the harms. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to evaluate the incidence and predictors of deprescribing of antihypertensive medication among VA long-term care residents ≥ 65 years admitted between 2006 and 2017. Data were extracted from the VA electronic health record, CMS Minimum Data Set, and Bar Code Medication Administration. Deprescribing was defined as a reduction in the number of antihypertensive medications, sustained for 2 weeks. Potentially triggering events for deprescribing included low blood pressure (&lt;90/60 mmHg), acute renal impairment (creatinine increase of 50%), electrolyte imbalance (potassium below 3.5 mEq/L, sodium decrease by 5 mEq/L), and fall in the past 30 days. Among 22,826 VA nursing home residents on antihypertensive medication, 57% had describing event during their stay (median length of stay = 6 months). Deprescribing events were most common in the first 4 weeks after admission and the last 4 weeks of life. Among potentially triggering events, acute renal impairment was associated with greatest increase in the likelihood of deprescribing over the subsequent 4 weeks: among residents with this event, 32.7% were described compared to 7.3% in those without (risk difference = 25.5%, p&lt;0.001). Falls were associated with the smallest increased risk of deprescribing (risk difference = 2.1%, p&lt;0.001) of the events considered. Deprescribing of antihypertensive medications is common among VA nursing home residents, especially after a potential renal adverse event.
Novel Applications of Accelerometry Data for Health Outcomes in Older Adults: Thinking Beyond MVPA
Authors: Schrack Jennifer , Urbanek Jacek , Manini Todd 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Physical activity is a well-established predictor of health and longevity. Wearable accelerometers produce high-frequency, time series data that capture multiple aspects of daily physical activity across the spectrum of intensity. Historically, the majority of accelerometry-based physical activity research has employed summary threshold metrics such as moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, or “MVPA.” Although these measures are important for understanding compliance with physical activity guidelines, they underutilize the potential of this data. To advance the science of physical activity in older adults, more sensitive, clinically translatable measures are needed. This symposium will examine the associations between novel measures of accelerometry-derived physical activity and various aging-related health outcomes. Dr. Wanigatunga will discuss the association of physical activity volume and fragmentation with the frailty phenotype in the Study to Understand Vitamin D and Fall Reduction in You (STURDY). Dr. Cai will present evidence on the association of physical activity quantities and patterns with measures of visual impairment in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. Ms. Qiao will present a novel accelerometry-derived measure of performance fatigability in the Developmental Epidemiologic Cohort Study. Finally, Dr. Urbanek will discuss the role of accelerometry-derived free-living gait cadence in defining fall risk in STURDY. Collectively, these presentations highlight critical associations between objective measures of physical activity and health outcomes in older adults and illuminate the need for thinking beyond MVPA to improve prevention and intervention efforts.