bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
EFFECTS OF A MULTICOMPONENT PHYSICAL ACTIVITY PROGRAM ON STRENGTH AND MOBILITY IN OLDER ADULTS IN CARE HOMES
Authors: Yang Yijian , Zeng Ziwei , Shen Jiahao , Ho Cheuk Yin , Chan Ka Po , Chan Francis Kin Tung , Fung Chi Tat 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Physical activity (PA) is important for maintaining functional mobility in frail older adults. However, existing PA programs for older adults mainly focus on lower limb function but overlook upper limb and core strength, reaction time, and coordination, which are crucial for safe transferring and fall prevention. In this study, we evaluated a multicomponent PA program, Mobility-Fit that we previously developed for frail older adults, through a cluster randomized controlled trial. 164 older adults from 20 care homes in Hong Kong were recruited and randomly assigned into the intervention group (practicing Mobility-Fit 3 times/week, 45 minutes/session for 12 weeks) or a control group that maintained usual care. All participants underwent assessments of strength, mobility, cognition, PA level (measured by accelerometers), and falls efficacy at baseline and completion. Repeated-Measures Linear Models were used to examine changes within and between groups. The mean age of participants was 84.4±8.0 years. 58% were females. Among the intervention group, handgrip strength increased by 15% (p=0.036), knee extension strength increased by 16% (p=0.012), reaction time decreased by 7% (p=0.049), and five-time sit-to-stand duration decreased by 12% (p=0.035). There were significant interactions between time and group in these variables (p &lt; 0.05). Conversely, participants in control group had a 6% decrease in handgrip strength (p=0.043) and higher fall efficacy score (p=0.048). No difference was found in cognitive performance. Our results suggest that multicomponent physical activities are effective in enhancing strength and mobility among frail older adults. The Mobility-Fit program may suit older adults with different functional capacities in care homes.
EVALUATION OF PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR CAREGIVERS OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Stratton Lauren , Fazio Sam 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The majority of care provided to people living with dementia is from family or informal caregivers. There is currently a lack of evidence-based programs and services that are available online or virtually to informal caregivers. This symposium consists of three studies, including the evaluation of two programs and the 24/7 Helpline that are available to informal caregivers of people living with dementia through the Alzheimer’s Association. The novel findings presented in this symposium will focus on the full impact these programs and services have on caregivers and address the gap in evidence-based programming. First, Judge will discuss the evaluation of a new program, The Empowered Caregiver, which highlights positive efficacy and acceptability data. Second, Grant will present the results of an evaluation for both an online and virtual program, Managing Money: A Caregiver’s Guide to Finances. Lastly, Hodgson will discuss three iterative studies that evaluated the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline, which provides 24/7 support over the phone, including care consultations. Fazio will serve as the discussant to draw attention to current gaps in caregiving intervention literature, the importance of evidence-based programs and services, and the future direction of these programs. Together, these studies contribute to our understanding of effective and accessible programs and services for caregivers.
EXPLORING VIRTUAL REALITY, VOICE INTERFACES, AND PERSONALITY TRAITS IN TECHNOLOGY INTERACTION AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Reyes Jimmy , Reyes Jimmy 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The proposed symposium highlights recent advances in addressing health disparities and technology adoption among older adults. Three noteworthy studies were undertaken by researchers spanning diverse career stages, thereby encompassing a breadth of expertise and viewpoints. The first study introduces MOTIVE, an immersive virtual exercise intervention targeting older adults who are low-income and living in urban settings. Results suggest acceptability of the intervention and support the scaling of the MOTIVE Study. Another study explores the usability of voice-assisted smart speakers among low-income minority older adults. While participants generally appreciate the hands-free interaction, challenges such as navigation difficulties and unintentional activations were noted. Customizable voice user interfaces are suggested to accommodate health conditions and speech abilities, essential for broader adoption. Contrary to stereotypes, smartphone and AI technology adoption among older adults is increasing. However, perceptions about AI may influence engagement. A pilot study investigating personality traits’ impact on AI interaction reveals extraversion predicts engagement, while agreeableness and conscientiousness affect perceived usability. Integrating personality traits into technology research protocols is crucial for understanding and enhancing older adults’ engagement. An integrated discussion, guided by the chair, will provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in technology adoption and usability within the context of gerontology. Collectively, these scholarly discussions will offer invaluable insights into innovative interventions and technological paradigms aimed at mitigating health disparities and enhancing the quality of life among older adults.
OPTIMUM CIRCADIAN RHYTHM FOR HEALTHY LIFESPAN
Authors: Panda Satchidananda 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
To thrive within nature day-night cycle, our genetic makeup is designed to orchestrate the rise and fall of nearly every gene in our genome at specific times. This rhythmic gene expression is vital for maintaining overall health and vitality. In our modern world, circadian rhythms are frequently disrupted, elevating risks of various chronic diseases. An understanding of circadian rhythm principles can lead to lifestyle interventions aimed at preventing, managing, and even reversing chronic diseases. One such pragmatic approach is time-restricted feeding/eating (TRF), a form of intermittent fasting that confines food intake to a consistent 8-10 hour daily window. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that TRF sustains circadian rhythm. TRF can be a preventive or therapeutic measure for several chronic conditions, including obesity, diabetes, liver and kidney diseases, various cancers, and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, TRF, when combined with a healthy diet, can enhance or preserve muscle mass in older animals and extend lifespan. Human studies on TRF are beginning to replicate some, though not all, of the benefits observed in laboratory animals. Beyond food timing, the timing and quality of light exposure also play a crucial role in influencing our sleep and circadian rhythm. Optimal light exposure has been linked to reduced depression, improved mood, enhanced nighttime sleep, and even accelerated recovery in hospitalized patients. In summary, insights from circadian rhythm science are unveiling new lifestyle choices that have the potential to be implemented on a population scale. These interventions aim to sustain both physical and mental health throughout human lifespan.
STRATEGIES AND OUTCOMES OF GAIT SPEED IMPLEMENTATION IN A GERIATRIC PRIMARY CARE CLINIC
Authors: Garbin Alexander , Johnson Thomas , Allison Caitlin , Lum Hillary 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Over a 10-month period, gait speed was measured during 4700 patient visits (1931 unique patients) as part of a quality improvement project within a geriatric primary care clinic. This presentation will comprehensively detail strategies and outcomes from this implementation project. Primary implementation strategies included use of an automated gait speed measurement device to reduce Medical Assistant burden, integration of gait speed into the electronic medical record, identification of clinical champions, and development of environmental supports to facilitate gait speed measurement and provider referral guidance. Burden was assessed at the start of the implementation period (n=124 visits), with results detailing a median of 19.5 seconds (IQR 14.3, 26.4) added to rooming workflow with the addition of gait speed measurements. Implementation outcomes of reach and adoption were examined on a weekly basis and were defined by the proportion of patient visits with a gait speed measurement and proportion of provider notes that included gait speed, respectively. At the end of the implementation period, reach was 73.3% while adoption was 53.9%. We also examined gait speed change in patients with two or more gait speed measurements, separated by at least 180 days (n=516). After stratifying by baseline risk (&lt;0.6 m/s ‘at risk’; ≥0.6m/s ‘not at risk’), patients identified as ‘at risk’ (n=159) increased their gait speed by 0.07 m/s (IQR -0.01, 0.20; p&lt;0.001), while those ‘not at risk’ (n=419) experienced no change (IQR -0.12, 0.11; p=0.94). Together, this information details considerations for implementing gait speed while also demonstrating its preliminary feasibility and benefit.
IMPLEMENT A SELF-ADMINISTERED, SMARTPHONE APP-BASED GAIT ASSESSMENT FOR FUTURE INTERVENTION IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Lo On-Yee (Amy) , Lee Pei-An , Yu Wanting , Zhou Junhong , Manor Brad 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Gait metrics reflect functional capacity and sensitively predict adverse health outcomes. Measuring gait performance – under normal (i.e. walking quietly at a self-selected speed) and “dual-task” conditions (i.e. walking while performing an unrelated cognitive task) – is recommended for assessing and monitoring physical and cognitive functions in older adults. However, there is a significant gap in understanding gait performance outside of lab and clinical settings, yet it is greatly needed. Our team developed a smartphone application (App) to capture gait metrics during normal and dual-task conditions. This App provides users with multimedia instructions, enabling them to self-administer the gait assessment remotely and repeatedly. Acquired data were uploaded to a cloud-based server for offline analyses. Our team has validated and deployed this App within several studies focused on older adults across a wide range of physical and cognitive functional limitations. Results suggested that gait metrics derived from the App were highly correlated with those derived from the GAITRite mat. The test-retest reliability of App-derived gait metrics were high for normal and dual-task walking. Older adults with intact cognition (N=17, MoCA &gt;26) or mild cognitive impairment (MCI, N=16, 19&lt; MoCA≤26) can safely, self-administer this App once a day for 5 consecutive days. Older adults with MCI exhibited significantly higher day-to-day variation in gait variability during dual-task walking (0.30±0.14), compared to cognitively intact older adults (0.19±0.09). Our effort also demonstrated an 80-year-old faller could use this App – with a caregiver’s assistance - to measure gait metrics bi-weekly for up to one year.
POTENTIALLY INAPPROPRIATE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM MEDICATION PRESCRIBING AMONG SEXUAL AND GENDER MINORITY ADULTS
Authors: Wong Chelsea , Smith Louisa , Cavanaugh Robert , Kim Dae Hyun , Streed Carl , Kapadia Farzana , Olivieri-Mui Brianne 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Among older, cisgender heterosexual adults (non-OSGM) mental health disorders and frailty are associated with higher potentially inappropriate medications (PIM). Yet, this association remains unclear among older sexual and gender minority adults (OSGM) who experience higher burden of frailty at earlier ages. We aimed to assess PIM prescribing by OSGM status and frailty. Using the All of Us Database (v7, Controlled Tier), we included participants ≥50yo without a diagnosis for appropriate use of four central nervous system PIM classes: hypnotics /sedatives, antipsychotics, antidepressants, or anxiolytics. Separate logistic regression models for each PIM category were constructed to estimate the association of OSGM status and frailty category with PIM prescriptions adjusting for age, race and ethnicity, income, marital status, and HIV status. The full sample included 967 OSGM and 15,563 non-OSGM. OSGM adults were younger (mean [SD], 63 [8] vs 66 [8], p&lt;0.05), with higher frailty (36% vs 27%, p&lt;0.05), similarly insured (98% vs 98%, p&gt;0.05), and fewer reported “excellent” mental health (19% vs 26%, p&lt;0.05). There were no significant associations between OSGM status and prescriptions in PIM categories of hypnotic/sedatives, antipsychotics, and antidepressants. However, OSGM status (aOR=1.79, 95% CI 1.09,2.79) and frailty (aOR=1.97, 95% CI 1.43,2.71) were associated with higher odds of anxiolytic PIM prescriptions. Our findings suggest that OSGM status and frailty were each independently associated with PIM anxiolytic prescriptions. This highlights a disparity in potentially inappropriate prescribing of anxiolytics among OSGM.
MAKING AGE-INCLUSIVE CAMPUS PRACTICES MORE DEMENTIA-INCLUSIVE
Authors: Montepare Joann , Nikzad-Terhune Katherina 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Shifting demographics are calling for higher education to respond to aging populations through more age-inclusive programs, practices, and partnerships. As institutions navigate this new educational terrain, gaps are evident. This symposium draws attention to the need to integrate age-inclusive with dementia-inclusive efforts. Addressing this need with educational interventions can benefit our students’ own healthy aging and longevity. Moreover, efforts that involve older adults living with dementia likewise have beneficial capacity for their well-being. To begin, Montepare (Lasell University) will provide an overview of contemporary age-inclusive initiatives in higher education (Age-Friendly University/AFU, Age Inclusivity Domains of Higher Education/AIDHE) and research motivating dementia-focused educational opportunities. Next, Mastel-Smith and colleagues (University of Texas at Tyler) will describe how nursing students co-created life stories online with people living with dementia who served as mentors and will show how qualitative data from students and mentors revealed positive outcomes for both groups. Kimzey (Texas Christian University) will then discuss a novel educational strategy in which a person with dementia (expert by experience) participated in teaching an undergraduate dementia course for health profession students and present data from focus groups and interviews showing the benefits of dementia-inclusive educational design. Finally, Shovali (Eckerd College) will describe how harnessing technology can expand dementia-inclusive teaching and learning. Specifically, how incorporating oculus VR headsets in experiential classroom activities can enhance students’ understanding and empathy of people living with dementia. Katherina Nikzad-Terhune (Northern Kentucky University), co-convener of the Age Inclusivity in Higher Education Interest Group, will serve as discussant.
“EVERYBODY HAS A SOUL”: PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA AND NURSING STUDENTS CO-CREATING LIFE STORIES
Authors: Mastel-Smith Beth , Kimzey Michelle , Robinson Amy Ahlbrand , Hermanns Melinda 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Lack of meaning and purpose in life can increase disability, stress, mortality, and the risk of cognitive impairment. Finding meaning and purpose helps people with dementia adjust to the diagnosis and can be accomplished via expressions of identity such as life review, a formal process of systematically reviewing and reflecting on one’s lived life. Digital storytelling involves telling a story using computer technology to record and share an individual’s narrative. The purpose of this study was to understand the perceived benefits of nursing students and people with dementia (the mentors) described after digitally co-creating the mentors’ life story. Allport’s Intergroup Contact Theory and the Lifestory as Legacy protocol guided intervention development. The study was approved by Institutional Review Boards and participants signed informed consent. Ten mentors and 13 students co-created the mentors’ life story during seven online meetings and completed qualitative interviews using an interview guide. Colaizzi’s process of data analysis was used to analyze data. Students and mentors described what it was like to co-create the mentor’s life story, what the experience meant to them, and what they learned. Mentors described how the student did and made them feel, importance of sharing their story with family, and advice for future health professionals regarding dementia care. Students commented on preparation to elicit their mentor’s stories and the perceived effect on their mentor. Co-creation of life stories online is feasible and had positive effects for nursing students and mentors with dementia.
EXPERT BY EXPERIENCE WITH DEMENTIA CO-TEACHING: HAVING AN EXPERT IN EVERY CLASS
Authors: Kimzey Michelle 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Care for people with dementia requires a better understanding of the reality of dementia. People with dementia are the true experts on dementia because they are living the experience. Including them in the teaching role benefits students and a person with dementia. The study aimed to understand how a person with dementia (expert by experience, [EBE]) involved in the teaching of an undergraduate dementia course impacted health profession students, an EBE with dementia, and their care partner. The qualitative exploratory design used semi-structured interviews for the student focus groups and interviews with an EBE and care partner. Students described the benefits of EBE, including increased awareness, knowledge, competencies, and reduced stigma. The EBE discussed the benefits, challenges, and meaningfulness of the experience. The care partner acknowledged the benefits for EBE and the family. Engaging people with dementia in EBE benefited students, families, and the EBE. By giving them a platform to educate students and self-advocate, we can positively impact the lives of people with dementia.
DEVELOPMENT OF CONSUMER-REPORTED QUALITY INDICATORS FOR PUBLICLY-FUNDED HOME AND COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES
Authors: Shippee Tetyana , Wolf Jack , Parikh Romil , Duan Yinfei , Langworthy Benjamin , Giordano Stephanie , Jutkowitz Eric 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Consumer-reported measures are important quality indicators of person-centered home and community-based services (HCBS). Lack of granularity in administrative data hinders measurement of consumer-reported quality in publicly-funded HCBS. The National Core Indicators- Aging and Disability Survey (NCI-AD) is potentially a great source of consumer-reported data for quality measurement in publicly-funded HCBS. Therefore, we analyzed NCI-AD data to develop consumer-reported quality indicators for HCBS. We applied exploratory factor analyses (EFA) to consumer-reported items from the 2018-2019 survey wave (n=5,572 community-dwelling consumers, age ≥65 years). Through EFA, we identified 5 quality indicators which were then validated in two ways, qualitatively by a technical expert panel (for face validity and contextualization) and quantitatively, using confirmatory factor analyses in the 2017-2018 survey wave (n=9,145 community-dwelling consumers, age ≥65 years). The 5 newly developed and validated quality indicators included service satisfaction (3 survey items, Cronbach’s alpha=0.89, McDonald’s omega=0.90), staff quality (5 survey items, alpha=0.86, omega=0.89), environmental safety (4 survey items, alpha=0.81, omega=0.89), service decision-making (5 survey items, alpha=0.79, omega=0.86), and community inclusion (5 survey items, alpha=0.78, omega=0.86). These indicators had reasonable concurrent validity, with service satisfaction having the highest correlation with other indicators (Pearson’s correlation coefficient between 0.59-0.36). These five new consumer-reported quality indicators can be used by researchers, service providers, and policy makers for evaluating and monitoring service quality and identifying modifiable targets for quality improvement in publicly-funded HCBS.
PRINCIPLES OF QUEER GERONTOLOGY
Authors: Fabbre Vanessa , Oswald Austin , Jen Sarah 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This symposium will present principles for queer gerontology – or gerontological scholarship aimed at promoting social justice for all, but especially for LGBTQ+ people as they age – and potential applications of this approach within existing and future scholarly projects. Building upon recent applications of queer theory and perspectives to aging studies and gerontology, we propose five principles of queer gerontology—1) Deeping Visibility and Awareness; 2) Developing and Applying Critical Perspectives; 3) Challenging Oppression and Injustice; 4) Engaging Multiple Epistemologies and Modes of Inquiry; and 5) Fostering Transdisciplinary Advancement—and present evidence and themes from existing empirical and conceptual scholarship that exemplify these principles. The first presentation will describe the need for queer gerontology, the iterative process through which these principles were developed, and present the principles. The second presentation will apply a critical secondary qualitative data analysis to illustrate the principles of queer gerontology in action. The third presentation will explore the theme of being a scholar-activist in the practice of queer gerontology. The symposium will offer a chance for attendees to reflect critically on their own scholarship and devise directions for future work with respect to these principles.
ENHANCING CARE AND TEAM PROCESSES THROUGH NURSE PRACTITIONER-LED HUDDLES IN LONG-TERM CARE HOMES
Authors: vellani Shirin , McGilton Katherine , Krassikova Alexandra , Keatings Margaret , Sidani Souraya 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Long-term care (LTC) homes faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, impacting both staff and residents. Huddles led by a skilled facilitator have the potential to enhance care and team dynamics positively. Nurse practitioners (NPs) are highly trained clinician and leader with a proven history of contributing to favorable outcomes for residents, staff, and the health system within LTC homes. The objectives of this mixed-methods study included: 1) assess the implementation of NP-led huddles; 2) compare outcomes of moral distress and perceived support between staff; and 3) examine changes in resident outcomes. Over a four-month period, huddles were conducted on two units of a privately-owned, not-for-profit LTC home in Ontario, Canada. Post-implementation outcomes were compared between staff who attended at least one huddle (intervention group, n=20) and those who did not (control group, n=22). Anonymized resident-level data from RAI MDS 2.0 were utilized to evaluate resident outcomes. Bayesian analysis was employed to compare outcomes across different staff categories and to summarize changes in RAI measures before and after the intervention. Forty-eight huddles, primarily focusing on resident care (46%) and staff well-being (34%), were conducted by the NP. Direct care staff who attended huddles reported lower levels of moral distress and increased support from the NP. One of the intervention units showed statistical evidence of reduced medical complexity among residents over time. In conclusion, NP-led huddles have the potential to positively impact both staff and resident outcomes and integration of NPs into LTC can facilitate implementation of evidence-informed practices in LTC.