bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Changes in well-being during the COVID pandemic: A longitudinal study of older adults
Authors: Huseth-Zosel Andrea , Fuller Heather 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is a public health crisis the world has not seen in a century, with older adults faced with unique impacts due to their increased vulnerability and need to social distance. This research examines changes in physical and mental health and quality of life among older adults in the upper Midwest during the COVID-19 pandemic. Seventy older adults aged 70-97 participated in three phone interviews (April [Time 1], June [Time 2], and October [Time 3] 2020) focusing on experiences coping with the pandemic and understanding overall changes in well-being. Participants rated their quality of life, physical health, and mental health on a scale from 1 to 5 with 1 being “Poor” and 5 being “Excellent.” Self-reported quality of life, mental health, and physical health initially declined between retrospective pre-COVID and Time 1 scores, with gradual increases seen across all three variables for Time 2 and Time 3 scores. Thematic analysis of qualitative responses for each interview wave identified salient themes of: 1) reduced quality of life, 2) distraction and routine, 3) loss and uncertainty, and 4) resilience and adaptation. The significance and meaning of these themes shifted across each time point. For example, the reduced quality of life theme initially encompassed loss of activities, later shifted to concerns about struggles to maintain relationships, and finally focused on hope for the future. Findings will be discussed in light of the significance of change over time as well as policy and practice implications for older adults.
Memory Problems During COVID in Low-income Older Adults
Authors: Zanjani Faika , Rhodes Annie 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Prevention, with widespread lifestyle risk reduction at the community-level, is currently considered an effective method to decrease Alzheimer’s disease (AD). As part of the Virginia Commonwealth University iCubed Health and Wellness in Aging Core, diverse older adults (60+) living in Richmond, VA, with incomes below $12,000/year and managing either diabetes/cardiovascular symptoms, were offered weekly lifestyle telephone-health coaching for 12-weeks, providing education, motivations, self-efficacy, and referral services for AD lifestyle risk. The study sample (n=40, mean age 68 years (range: 60-77 years) was 88% African American/Black (n=35), 100% Non-Hispanic, and 45% males (n=18)). Thirty-nine (95%) of subjects successfully participated in coaching sessions; on average 91.9% (11) sessions/subject were completed. Participants provided positive anecdotal feedback and the need for continued health coaching during COVID. N=30 (75%) of the original sample consented for continued health coaching during the Covid pandemic, 63% female, 88% African American/Black, 60-77 age range (mean age 69 years), and 47% reporting memory problems. Baseline Covid interviews indicated poorer health status associated with reporting memory problems for poor physical health days (F=7.03;p=.01); poor mental health days (F=6.88;p=.01); total mental/physical health poor days (F=2.76;p=.11); sad days (F=15.52;p=.001); worried days (F=6.27;p=.02); tired days (F=9.77;p=.004); feelings of emptiness (F=10.09;p=.004); feelings of rejection (F=3.382;p=.08); feelings of failure (F=7.58;p=.01); little interest/pleasure (F=7.84;p=.009); and feeling down (F=6.75;p=.02). In conclusion, this preliminary work creates the impetus for future large-scale AD prevention investigations to improve the lives of AD-risk, low-income, diverse older adults reporting memory problems. This research indicates the subjective reporting of memory problems requires health intervention.
Dementia Caregiver Surrogate Decision Making Self-Efficacy:Distress, and Quality of Life
Authors: Pilonieta Giovanna , Geldmacher David 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
We assessed the relationship between caregiver self-efficacy and caregivers’ ratings of care recipient’s health-related quality of life, the severity of neuropsychiatric symptoms, and associated caregiver distress for persons with Alzheimer’s dementia (AD). Methods: The 31-item DEMQOL-Proxy, Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI-Q), and the Self-Efficacy for Surrogate Decision-Making scale (SDM-SES) were collected from 26 family caregivers of people with AD expressing care resistant behaviors. We used Spearman correlations to assess relationships between SDM-SES, NPI-Q severity, and NPI-distress and DEMQOL-proxy. Among enrolled caregivers, 14 (54%) were women; mean age was 64.5 years, and 24 (92%) were college-educated. Their care recipients were 61% women, 77 % white, with a mean age of 76 years, and mostly college-educated (88%). Mean scores were DEMQOL-Proxy 91.27 (+/- 14.16), SDM-SES 16.38 (+/- 2.74), NPI-Q Severity score 14.23 (+/- 6.04), and NPI-distress 17.42 (+/-6.90). There were moderate correlations between DEMQOL-Proxy and SDM-SES (r=0.54), NPI severity (r= -0.42) and NPI-distress (r= -0.49). Secondary analysis showed a moderate correlation between SDM-SES and NPI-distress (r= -0.40). We identified associations between caregiver self-efficacy, quality of life, and caregiver distress. A higher baseline SDM-SES was associated with greater health-related quality of life for the care recipient. Lower self-efficacy scores were related to more caregiver distress related to neuropsychiatric symptoms. Higher NPI severity and caregiver distress were associated with lower quality of life for the care recipient. Interventions targeting self-efficacy may promote improved QOL and decrease caregiver distress in AD dyads.
Exploring Paradoxical Lucidity Stories: Working Towards Promoting Meaningful Engagement when Least Expected
Authors: Robnett Regula , Meuser Thomas 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Lucidity is the typical cognitive state of adults. However, conditions such as Alzheimer Disease and major neurocognitive disorders can rob people of their usual clarity. Episodes of “paradoxical lucidity” (PL) happen when there is a spontaneous return of lucidity in people who are assumed to have lost the capacity to engage and communicate. These often take place near the end of life. Anecdotal stories depicting PL have been shared for centuries, but the etiology and mechanisms of PL rarely have been examined scientifically. The purpose of this mixed-methods project was to “gather the stories,” of witnessed episodes of PL, to describe them, including potential triggers and contextual supports. Sixty witnesses of episodes have shared their experiences. Two-thirds those displaying PL were female. Most had died within six months of the episode. Episodes generally lasted under an hour (range: “moments” up to 5+ hours). Illustrative descriptions about PL emerged: 1) A trusted person or professional, perhaps unknowingly, saying or doing the right thing could trigger an episode; 2) PL frequently took place in a sacred environment involving ritual spiritual practices (e.g., saying the rosary and singing hymns); 3) meaningful music was often a trigger; and 4) PL sometimes involved the return of one’s professional or familial/friend role. Familiar sounds (e.g., music, voices) were the most common sensory antecedents. A deeper understanding of PL events could potentially drive interventions to promote these valued episodes. The possibility that end-stage neurocognitive impairments could be reversible, even for a short period, is thought-provoking and inspiring.
Psychological Challenges Among Older Adults with Early Stage Dementia: A Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Jeong Mijin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Due to rapid expected growth in the population of older adults with dementia, exploring the issues and experiences related to early stage dementia (ESD) is a fundamental step toward helping individuals adjust to their diagnosis and transition into treatment. The purpose of this paper is to review the extant literature regarding how older adults adjust to and cope with the onset of dementia through major situations and difficulties. A narrative approach was applied to review 120 articles focused on ESD that were published in the U.S. and other western countries between 1995 to 2020. There were four apparent themes in the literature, which align with key chronological experiences related to ESD: diagnosis of dementia; stigma related to dementia; the development of identity with ESD; and social and service-related experiences of older adults with ESD. Stigma related to dementia was a powerful risk factor that hindered psychological adjustment to ESD. Varied cultural perspectives on dementia and a lack of knowledge of dementia symptoms among diverse older adults and their families were also major risk factors. In the U.S., there was a lack of literature, especially around the development of identity with dementia and older adults’ perspectives on available services, Also, there were insufficient U.S.-based studies that explored the challenges of psychological adjustment among racial and ethnic minority groups. Future research could benefit from taking a life course perspective to assess ESD within the context of one’s life and examine challenges associated with ESD across all four themes to promote empowerment.
A dyadic study of depression, capitalization patterns, and leisure activities in retirement
Authors: Shulyaev Ksenya , Segel-Karpas Dikla , Gur-Yaish Nurit 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Late-life relationships, and specifically spousal relations, are increasingly recognized as an important factor shaping the wellbeing, health, social and emotional health of older people. Therefore, a better understanding of the health and well-being trajectories of older adults requires considering the characteristics of their spouses and couple dynamics. This study focused on the actual problem of engagement of recently retired older adults in the community and various leisure activities and examined how both older adults' and spouses’ depression level influence their activities. We also consider the quality of relationships in a couple: how a partner generally responds when the participant discloses good news (capitalization). Fifty-three Israeli couples participated in the current study with one member of the couple 60 or older and retired within the last five years. Recently retired spouses rated their engagement in leisure activities, both spouses reported their level of depression, and partners of retired persons completed the Perceived Responses to Capitalization Attempts Scale. Results show that depression level of recently retired spouses had a direct negative effect (b(SE)=-7.8(3.38), CI(-14.65,-1.04), p=0.02) on their engagement in leisure activities, while the level of their partners' depression had no significant direct effect on retired persons' leisure activities. However, partners’ depression associated (p=0.001) with negative capitalization patterns and mediation analysis showed an indirect effect of partners’ depression via the capitalization (b(SE)=-2.77(1.7), CI(-6.41,-0.04), p=0.03). These results indicate that in encouraging newly retired people to participate in leisure activities it is important to consider both spouses' depression level and capitalization patterns in the couple.
Developing an Educational Program on Aging for High School Students
Authors: Davis Tracy , Sokan Amanda 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
College students in disciplines that might provide services or work with older adults, such as medicine or social work, are usually the target of most educational programs on aging. High schools provide an untapped opportunity to engage students earlier. This project is the next step following a pilot study conducted in New Jersey and Kentucky to better understand high school students’ attitudes and knowledge regarding aging. That study also reviewed current high school curriculum for aging-specific content and perceived barriers among teachers to incorporating aging education into the curriculum (Davis & Sokan, 2019). Study findings indicate inter alia, a need to educate high school students about aging, increase interactions among older and younger adults, incorporate education about careers on aging, and educate teachers on how to infuse more aging content into their courses. To that end, this project’s goal was to develop both a training module and educational program on aging for high school students. Also, we propose a plan to develop, implement, and evaluate both the training module and the educational programs. We hypothesize that the training module will increase high school teachers’ confidence in their ability to teach their students about aging. The educational program’s delivery will increase students’ knowledge of aging-related issues and awareness about careers in aging. Upon completing the project, we will use feedback from students and teachers to revise the educational program, for implementation among a larger sample of high schools.
In the Eye of the Beholder: Using Photography to Teach Gerontology
Authors: Hash Kristina , Naleppa Matthias , Rogers Anissa 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Due to the widespread access to smart phones and similar technology, photography and photographic images have become an ever-present part of contemporary social life. Photographic methods are also growing in their use in higher education pedagogy. As a specific application, photography can be a powerful tool to educate students about aging processes and issues that impact older adults. This poster will explore the use of photographic methods and tools to teach and integrate aging-related concepts into gerontology and social work courses, at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Specifically, the use of digital storytelling, photo mapping, photo voice, and photo therapy will be highlighted. Descriptions of and consideration for assignments along with example student projects will be displayed and discussed as will other potential projects and uses of photographic methods. Attention will be paid to how photographic methods can help students explore the diversity and intersection of individual characteristics and experiences with the aging process and how intersectional identities can influence, and be influenced by, aging and external factors and processes.
An Inter-University Virtual Geriatric Case Competition to Build Interprofessional Collaboration Skills
Authors: Talley Kristine , Berg-Weger Marla , Stallings Devita , Schicker Teresa , Pesja Laura , Wyman Jean 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Developing positive learning experiences in team-based geriatric care is challenging. This presentation will highlight an inter-University geriatric case competition for developing interprofessional competencies in health professional students sponsored by the Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Programs at Saint Louis University and the University of Minnesota. The virtual competition involved teams of 4-5 undergraduate and graduate students from multiple health professions who designed a comprehensive care plan using a simulated complex geriatric patient case. Students were assigned to an interprofessional team with a faculty or community expert coach, attended an orientation, and developed a 20-minute recorded presentation. A panel of judges rated team presentations using a scoring rubric based on the Core Competencies for Interprofessional Collaborative Practice. Local competitions included a first and semi-final round, with the winning teams presenting at the inter-university competition held via live videoconferencing that involved a question-and-answer session. Prizes were given to the top teams. Students, coaches, and judges completed evaluation surveys focused on satisfaction with the competition format/procedures and achievement of interprofessional competencies. Twenty-one teams and 117 students from 12 disciplines participated. Team scores ranged from 2.2 to 4.3 (overall mean 3.1) on a 1-5 scale. Judge, coach, and student evaluations were positive, indicating students learned valuable lessons in group dynamics, team-based care, and geriatric care. Most students (82%) preferred the virtual competition format or had no preference on format. The virtual case competition provided a positive, engaging experience to introduce health professional students to geriatric team-based care and develop their readiness for collaborative practice.
Experiential Service Learning: Promoting Competency-based Education for Gerontology Students
Authors: Abah Theresa , Paumer Linda 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Service-learning is an effective pedagogical approach meant to deepen learners understanding of course content by linking scholarship and social action when structurally organized based on attainment of professional core competencies. The recent COVID-19 pandemic caused a rethinking of the way service learning practicum is delivered, especially as it relates to training health professionals who engage collaboratively with older persons (individuals aged 65 years and older). This poster examines the challenges faced by gerontology students as they transitioned to fully virtual learning and practicum format, the lessons learned, and how to close the gap between theory and practice for better programmatic processes. The data used to gather students experiences include; student reflective journals, class discussions and survey questions to students (n=44). The analytic framework utilized is the Social Cognitive Theory, (SCT)- which explains how individuals can master concepts through verbal and physical persuasion, including peer modelling. The goal is to promote leaners self- regulatory skills to achieve the course learning objectives, as obtained from the SCT six strategies for setting achievable goals, through: Feedback, self-instruction, self-monitoring, use of support and goal setting. Some of the lessons learned suggest students benefit more from service learning when they receive continuous feedback about how to develop intergenerational relationships with older adult partners assigned to in the community (68%), than from goal setting strategies (24%). The implication for practice is: there is a need to develop structured service-learning guidelines for undergraduate students in gerontology program to be prepared to better serve older adults.
Implementing a Community-Based Collaborative Project During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Process Evaluation
Authors: Pond Brittney , Ross Leslie , Yeh Jarmin , Hollister Brooke , Cheang Tiffany , Yu Susie , Eldridge Corinne 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) caregivers are critical linchpins in our long-term care system, but little research exists to examine the strategies for enhancing their role working in the homes of persons living with dementia (PLWD). The aim of the IHSS+ Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Training Project (IHSS+ ADRD Training Project) is to implement a competency-based dementia training program for 600 IHSS caregivers and their consumers; and evaluate the training program’s impact on caregiving, long-term services and supports, and health systems. This project is a partnership between the University of California, San Francisco, Institute for Health & Aging; Center for Caregiver Advancement, a nonprofit organization founded by home care workers; and Alameda Alliance for Health, a non-profit managed care plan created by and for residents of Alameda County, California. The research design and funding of the project was established just prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. As the pandemic evolved, the IHSS+ ADRD Training Project underwent many revisions and pivoted to remote strategies to ensure progress could be made toward the aims. This poster describes a process evaluation of how various challenges were addressed and subsequent changes were made to the methodology. Using a community-based participatory research and program evaluation hybrid model, this project remained nimble, configuring an online dementia training program and evaluation methods that accommodated safety needs of community partners. Benefits and limitations of implementing the IHSS+ ADRD Training Project, using remote strategies, to ensure IHSS caregivers and their consumers could continue receiving education and support, are highlighted.
Examining the Experiences of Adult Learners in Higher Education
Authors: Kalavar Jyotsna , Magda Kirsten , Ariyo Raquel 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
In the last decade, there has been a shift of more non-traditional adult learners returning to pursue undergraduate education. Though traditional age students are in the majority, a rising population of adult learners has been steadily increasing. They are typically students who are 25 years and older, attend part-time, work full-time, and tend to juggle family or dependent demands with schoolwork. Studies show that these adult learners are at high-risk for academic underachievement and dropping out. However, educational institutions still operate with the same traditional learning paradigm that they previously used (without acknowledging the wealth of life experiences that adult learners bring), leading us to the question of how adult learners perceive their academic learning experiences. In this study, 171 adult learners (students aged 25 and older at the time of matriculation) at a regional college in Atlanta, participated in an online survey that examined their academic experiences, specifically meaningfulness of coursework, course delivery approaches, and the advantages as well as disadvantages of being an adult learner. Majority were females (83%), and the ethnic breakdown was as follows: White (41%), African American (26%), Hispanic (12%), and 22% reported other. Results of this study indicate that academic institutions need to pay attention to the learning experiences of this burgeoning student population. Understanding their perspectives on their academic experiences hold major implications for long-term meaningful change in academia.
Cognitive Overload: How to Protect Older Adults From Diminished Financial Decision-Making Capacity
Authors: Heye Christopher , Loewy Elizabeth , Wade Katie 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The aging population in the US poses a major threat to the financial security of older adults and their families. Millions of older adults will need to successfully navigate a multitude of financial and legal issues if they are to safely manage their assets while they are alive, and then securely transfer trillions of dollars to their heirs in accordance with their wishes. But most older adults are less healthy than their younger counterparts, and 25% or more over 65 are likely to suffer from diminished decision-making capacity. In short, older adults in the US will have to make some of the most important financial decisions of their lives just as their decision-making capacity is in decline. We offer recommendations to make it easier for financial services firms, medical professionals, non-profit organizations, and technology companies to work together to find better solutions for managing the complex issues around diminished decision-making capacity that is only likely to worsen in the years ahead.