bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Religious Service Attendance, Allostatic Load, and Mortality Among Black Men
Authors: Bruce Marino , Beech Bettina , Kermah Dulcie , Marshall Gillian , Archibald Paul , Smith Genee , Thorpe Roland 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Black men experience high levels of social and psychological stress and religion has been a coping strategy. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between religious service attendance and mortality among Black men. Data were drawn from the NHANES III (1988-1994) sample linked to the 2015 public use Mortality File. The analytic sample (n=2300) was restricted to Black men. All-cause mortality was the primary outcome and religious service attendance was the primary independent variable. Findings from Cox proportional hazards models indicated participants who attended at least once per week were 18% less likely to die than their peers who did not attend a religious service at all (fully adjusted HR 0.82; CI 0.68-0.99). The robust association between religious service attendance and mortality among Black men suggest that prospective studies are needed to further examine the influence of religion on health among this population.
Psychosocial Risk Factors of Quality of Life Outcomes Among Older Adults Living With HIV
Authors: Brown Monique 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Antiretroviral therapy, higher education, and HIV disclosure have been linked to improved quality of life (QoL) among people living with HIV. However, research examining psychosocial risk factors of QoL among older adults living with HIV (OALH) is lacking. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to examine the psychosocial risk factors of QoL among OALH. Data were obtained from 156 adults aged 50 and older living with HIV in South Carolina. Multivariable regression models adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics were used to determine the association between psychosocial risk factors and QoL domains among OALH. Stigma was associated with the physical (β=0.058, p=0.023), social (β=-0.149, p=0.006), and spiritual (β=0.124, p=&lt;0.001) domains. Resilience was associated with the psychological (β=0.206, p=&lt;0.001), independence (β=0.100, p=0.010), social (β=0.166, p=0.004), and environmental (β=0.312 p=&lt;0.001) domains. Depression and experiencing trauma were also associated with varying QoL domains. Findings may inform interventions geared towards improving QoL among OALH.
An Ecological Model of Risk Factors in Older Adults With Repeated Exposure to Elder Mistreatment
Authors: Li Mengting , Le Qun , Dong XinQi 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Limited empirical studies examined the factors related to repeated EM exposures among Chinese older immigrants. Guided by the ecological model, this study aims to explore what are the risk factors leading to recurrence of EM. Data were drawn from the two-wave PINE Study with 725 participants having EM at baseline and 191 reported repeated EM after two years. EM was evaluated by a 66-item instrument, including psychological, physical, and sexual mistreatment, financial exploitation, and caregiver neglect. Logistic regression was used. Increasing financial independence was associated with lower possibility of repeated EM (OR: 0.72, 95%CI 0.56-0.92). Every one unit increase in ADL impairment (OR: 1.10, 95%CI 1.02-1.18), IADL impairment (OR: 1.09, 95%CI 1.05-1.13) and increase frequency of alcohol consumption (OR: 1.33, 95%CI 1.06-1.66) were associated with higher possibility of repeated EM. Social service could improve physical function, provide financial support, and reduce health-risk behavior to prevent the recurrence of EM.
Cultural Differences in Older Immigrants' Health and Social Services Use
Authors: Diederich Freya 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Even though Germany has a mandatory health and long-term care insurance with no or only very low co-payments, immigrants and the native population differ in their health and social services use. Differences in cultural traits and a lack of knowledge about the institutional setting are frequently mentioned as contributing factors. Relying on the epidemiological approach in the economic literature, this empirical study shows that both cultural traits that prevail in older immigrants’ country of origin and older immigrants’ knowledge about the host country’s institutional setting affect their health and social services use in Germany. We distinguish foreign-born immigrants and their descendants as both groups differ in their connection to the home and the host country. The results will be used to discuss immigrants’ access and potential barriers to the use of health and social services in comparison to the native population.
How Active Aging Policies Evolved in Italy? A Systematic Review of National and Regional Policies
Authors: Barbabella Francesco , Lucantoni Davide , Socci Marco , Lamura Giovanni , Principi Andrea 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
In recent years, active aging became a concept progressively considered by policy makers in Italy. A national project for creating a multilevel and co-managed coordination of active aging policies was launched in 2019 by the Italian Government and the National Institute of Health and Science on Ageing (IRCCS INRCA). A systematic review of active aging policies was conducted at both national and regional level. Results showed that national policies still reflect the general categorical fragmentation of Italian welfare system, although substantial developments were found in some sectors, i.e. prolonging working life, supporting families, social inclusion, and healthy ageing. Ten out of twenty-one regions have approved laws dedicated to active aging, although in most cases these laws are too recent to show impact. National and regional policy makers still need to overcome several cultural, coordination and fragmentation challenges for improving active aging policies and harmonise them with societal needs.
Creating, Recruiting, and Developing: Key Tasks and Their Challenges
Authors: Ansello Edward , Helm Faith 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The ECHO model is uniquely suited to developing education for a wide range of agencies and providers serving the needs of older adults with IDD. The program’s structure and its educational philosophy depend on modeling teamwork in both the hub and the spokes. Recruitment of participants included paid caregivers, healthcare practitioners, and direct service providers, focusing on team participation at each site. In developing the curriculum, it was critical to recognize the roles played by each sector, as well as the complementary contributions of others. Consequently, curriculum content needed to be multidisciplinary and multifocal, and recognize both the breadth of contributors and time limits in selecting content for each session. Didactic presentations and case studies embodied these features. Priorities included best practices in person-centered care; differential diagnoses; and physical, social, and environmental factors. The facilitators of, and challenges to, these priorities offer implications for advancing educational programs with similar objectives.
Working while Caring for Older Adults with Hearing Impairment and Dementia: Evidence from the NSOC
Authors: Morales Emmanuel Garcia , Varadaraj Varshini , Swenor Bonnielin , Reed Nicholas 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Age-related hearing loss (HL) and dementia are common among older adults. The implications of caregiving for older adults with dementia is documented. Whether the presence of HL modifies these association is unknown. We used data from the 2011 NHATS/NSOC. Hearing loss and dementia were identified among care recipients (CR). Our outcomes included: hours of care provided, and caregiver’s work activities. Among 1,013 caregivers, 456 assisted individuals without HL or dementia (HL-/D-), 229 with dementia (D+), 193 with HL, and 135 with HL and dementia (HL+/D+). In fully adjusted models, as compared to caregivers of HL-/D-, caregivers of D+ spent 39.1 hours more (95% CI: 13.6,64.6) in caregiving, caregivers of HL+/D+ spent 56.6 more hours (95% CI: 25.1,88.1). We found no differences in work activities between CR groups. The presence of HL increases the caregiving needs of adults with dementia. The additional time does not affect the labor participation of caregivers.
Sensory Impairment and Algorithmic Classification of Early Cognitive Impairment in Middle-Aged and Older Adults
Authors: Cai Yurun , Agrawal Yuri , Schrack Jennifer , Gross Alden , Armstrong Nicole , Simonsick Eleanor , Resnick Susan 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Sensory function has been linked to cognitive impairment and dementia, but the link between multiple sensory impairments and early cognitive impairment (ECI) is unclear. Sensory function (vision, hearing, vestibular, proprioception, and olfaction) was measured in 390 BLSA participants (age=75±8 years; 57% women; 69% white) from 2012 to 2018 over a mean 3.6 years. ECI was defined based on 1 standard deviation below age-and race-specific means in Card Rotations or California Verbal Learning Test immediate recall. Cox proportional hazard models examined the risk of ECI for each sensory impairment and across categories of impairments. Vision impairment (vs. no vision impairment) was associated with a 70% greater risk of ECI (HR=1.70, p=0.05). Participants with 1 or ≥2 sensory impairments had triple the risk of ECI (HR=3.74 and 3.44, p=0.008 and 0.02, respectively) compared to those without impairment. Future studies are needed to examine whether treatment for sensory impairments can modify these risks.
Longitudinal Effects of Coping Strategies on Mental Health of Older Adults Living Alone During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kim Seoyoun , Yoon Hyunwoo , Jang Yuri 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and related social distancing measures have posed a significant threat to the mental health of older adults, particularly those living alone. Accordingly, the World Health Organization implemented the #HealthyAtHome program, encouraging people to keep in regular contact with loved ones, stay physically active, and keep a regular routine. The current study aims to examine a micro-longitudinal link between positive coping strategies (e.g., exercise, meditation, relaxation, and virtual social contacts) and depressive symptoms among older adults who live alone during the COVID-19 pandemic. We used 21 biweekly waves of longitudinal data from the Understanding America Study (UAS) collected between April 2020 and February 2021 (N=839, observation= 16,256). The multilevel models with correlated random effects were estimated to examine lagged effects of coping strategies (t-1) on depressive symptoms (t). The analysis used the xthybrid command with clustered standard errors in Stata 15.1. The results show that exercise (b=-.10, p=0.02), relaxation (b=-02, p=0.01), and virtual social contacts (b=-.01, p=0.01) were predictive of lower depressive symptoms even after controlling for time-invariant and time-varying covariates. Meditation, however, was associated with higher depressive symptoms (b=.01, p=0.02). The results show that modifiable lifestyle factors, such as taking time to exercise or relax, may enhance mental health and well-being for older adults living alone. Virtual social contacts such as video calls could be an effective way to keep older adults socially connected and emotionally healthy.
Antidepressant Use and Risk of Suicidal Behavior in Older Persons With Depression: A Cohort Study in Hong Kong
Authors: Chai Yi , Luo Hao , Man Kenneth K C , Lau Wallis C Y , Wong Ian C K 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background: Depression is highly prevalent in older adults and requires treatment. However, debate persists on whether antidepressant use is associated with an elevated risk of suicidal behavior. This study aims to examine the short- and long-term risk of suicidal behavior by various classes of antidepressants in older persons with depression. Methods: Persons aged 40 years and above and received a clinical diagnosis of depression between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2016 were identified from the Clinical Data Analysis and Reporting System in Hong Kong. The risk of suicidal behavior in persons who were prescribed antidepressants was compared with persons who were not prescribed any antidepressant drugs. Antidepressants were classified as tricyclic and related antidepressant drugs (TCAs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), noradrenergic and specific serotonergic antidepressants (NaSSAs), serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and others. Incidence and adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of subsequent self-harm and suicide within one-year and the whole study period were estimated by age groups. Results: A total of 34,927 persons aged 40-64 years, and 19,300 persons aged 65+ years were included. In the younger age group, the highest short-term and long-term risks were found in others (aHR, 2.33; 1.02-5.34) and NaSSAs (2.88; 2.15-3.86), respectively. In the older age group, no significant association was observed between antidepressant use and suicidal behavior across all antidepressant classes. Conclusion: The self-harm and suicide associated risks vary across antidepressant classes and age groups. Cautions are always needed for antidepressant prescriptions.
Association of Early-Life Family and Nieghborhood Circumstances With Depressive Symptoms in Chinese Older Adults
Authors: Wu Chenkai , Tan Jie 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
A growing body of literature suggests that early life circumstances can influence mental health throughout the lifespan. However, how these early life circumstances cumulatively contribute to depression in old age is not completely understood. The present study examined the associations of eight factors representing multifaceted early life experience at individual, family, and community levels with depression among community-dwelling older adults. Data were from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. We included 8,239 community-dwelling individuals who were ≥60 years, completed the life history questionnaire, and had assessment of depression. Chi-square test was used to examine the unadjusted associations between each of the eight early life risk factors and depression. An early life disadvantage index was established using risk factors that were significantly associated with depression. Logistic regression was used to examine the association of each early life risk factor and the index with depression. Of 8,239 individuals included, 2,055 (24.9%) had depression. In bivariate analysis, each of eight early life risk factors was significantly associated with depression. Except for maternal and paternal education, all risk factors persisted to be associated with depression after multivariable adjustment. In the multivariable-adjusted model, a one-point higher in the early life disadvantage index (range: 0-6) was associated with a 45% (95% CI: 37%, 53%) higher odds of depression. There was a strong association between early life environments and depressive symptoms among Chinese community-dwelling older adults. Adverse early life circumstances could contribute cumulatively to depression in old age.
Differential Treatment of Older Workers Due to COVID-19: Potential for Ageism and Age Discrimination at Work
Authors: Hollis-Sawyer Lisa 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This paper examines the implications of employers' current COVID-19 protective workplace attendance policies toward older workers, potentially creating the outcomes of increased numbers of involuntary retirees and the discouraged older worker syndrome among otherwise qualified older workforce participants. How potential ageist assumptions and age discrimination under COVID-19 affect workplace decisions in reflection on the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (1967) guidelines is discussed. Older workers may remain in the workforce longer than ever before due to having healthier life expectancies. Workplace policies need to be increasingly sensitive to older employees’ rights to sustain their workplace engagement (Cummins, 2014; Cummins, Harootyan, & Kunkel, 2015). The author reviewed current unemployment trends in 2020 and emerging litigation in reflection upon general issues of COVID-19 related age discrimination in the older workers' workplace attendance decisions by employers and the historical framework of the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (1967, with significant amendments in 1978 and 1986). The policy analysis paper presents the implications of employers' COVID-19 protective policies on older workers and how it may affect the “health” of the workplace and older adults and the economy beyond the pandemic. Lastly, strategies to address an "age-friendly" workplace during a pandemic and post-pandemic are discussed.
Eldercare Responsibilities and Physical Health Symptoms Among Manufacturing Workers
Authors: Fortinsky Richard , Barnes-Farrell Janet , Garza Jennifer , Lacey Samantha , Austin Hannah , Grady James , Cherniack Martin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Working adults responsible for providing care to older relatives at home (eldercare) have reported greater psychological health problems such as depressive symptoms and stress than workers without eldercare responsibilities. Less is known about how eldercare is associated with physical health symptoms such as sleep-related problems and pain. Among manufacturing workers, such physical health symptoms have the capacity to diminish productivity. Therefore, we explored associations between eldercare responsibilities and physical health symptoms that could affect work performance in a sample of 357 adult employees from five manufacturing companies in a northeastern US state. Research questions were: are workers with eldercare responsibilities more likely than those without eldercare responsibilities to report sleep-related and pain-related symptoms, and are the number of eldercare tasks associated with these physical health symptoms? Among sample members, 52 (14.6%) provided eldercare, 62% were male, mean(standard deviation) age=49.8(12.7), and 77% were non-Hispanic White; no demographic differences were found between those with and without eldercare responsibilities. In bivariate analyses, we found that providing eldercare was associated with lower sleep quality (p=.05), fewer hours of sleep during the workweek (p=.04), more pain interference at home and at work (p=.02), and more pain on average in the past week (p=.01). Providing more types of eldercare tasks ranging from personal care to providing transportation was associated with more pain on average in the past week (p = .04). We conclude that eldercare is associated with physical health symptoms that could directly affect job performance among manufacturing workers. Workplace policy implications will be discussed.
Circadian Rest and Activity Rhythms and Cognitive Change in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging
Authors: Rabinowitz Jill , An Yang , Wanigatunga Sarah , Zipunnikov Vadim , Wu Mark , Simonsick Eleanor , Resnick Susan , Spira Adam 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Alterations in 24-hour movement patterns, or circadian rest/activity rhythms (RARs), commonly occur with aging. Using linear mixed effects (LME) modeling, we examined associations of baseline RARs with longitudinal change in cognition. Participants (N=424; 47% male, baseline age 72.8±10.1 years) were from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging and completed 5.6±0.8 nights of wrist actigraphy at baseline. Tests of memory, executive function, attention, language, and visuospatial ability were administered at baseline and subsequent visits (3.7±1.7 years of follow-up in those with &gt;1 visit (n=295)). In unadjusted random intercept and slope LME models, greater RAR stability predicted slower memory decline, and higher activity during participants’ least active 5 hours (L5) predicted slower decline in visuospatial ability. After covariate adjustment, higher activity in participants’ most active 10 hours (M10) and higher L5 predicted slower decline in visuospatial ability (p&lt;.05). Further research is needed on RARs as risk factors for later-life cognitive decline.
Evaluating Implementation of the Behavioral Recovery Outreach (BRO) Team: One Year of Implementation
Authors: Jedele Jenefer , Griffin Cameron , Matthews Kathleen , Vinson Latrice 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
We present evaluation results after one year of implementation by nine BRO Teams. Monthly checklists documented consistent composition across teams: a psychologist, social worker and nurse. Social workers were recognized as having a critical role in implementation, serving as a referral source and liaison between the CLC, Veteran/family, and community facility. Early implementation focused on team and program development with barriers including unprotected time for Team members. In the first year, the nine teams enrolled 70 Veterans, discharging 86% to community facilities. Characteristics of the Veterans suggest Teams are reaching the complex Veteran targeted by the model. Barriers to successful discharge include community facility inexperience/training and confidence to manage complex residents. COVID emerged as the leading barrier to outreach to internal and external partners and providing transitional support to the Veteran after discharge. We discuss the impact of these preliminary findings on future implementation and dissemination of the model.
A Qualitative Comparison of the Post-COVID Retirement Experience Between Japanese and American Older Adults
Authors: Bradley Dana , Nishikitani Mariko , Ariyoshi Mie , Yokota Fumihiko , Tucker Gretchen , Allen Laura 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The purpose of this collaborative study between researchers in Japan and the U.S. was to understand the retirement experience and potential changes in social interactions (amount, type, and mode of communication) among older adults living independently in the community. Specifically, we were interested in individuals’ expectations about retirement and the types of social interactions experienced prior to and post-retirement, situated within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Both research teams conducted in-depth one-on-one interviews with community-residing retired older adults in early 2021. In the findings we explore similarities and differences between the retirement experiences of Japanese and American older adults, including methodological differences that transpired; specifically, we evaluate the meaning and experience of the COVID-19 pandemic in each of these cultural contexts and how retired older adults experienced its impact in their social interactions.
Developing Culturally Competent Technology for Older Adults in Japan and the United States
Authors: Allen Laura , Bradley Dana , Tucker Gretchen 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The United States and Japan are experiencing an exponential growth in the number of persons age 65 and older. To address certain aging-related issues, assistive technological advancements are being developed. These technologies need to be reliable, safe, secure, and culturally accepted by older adults. In addition, technology must be developed within the unique cultural contexts of each country. One approach currently being used is an interdisciplinary team approach comprised of researchers representing gerontology, information systems, robotics, health sciences, sociology, and computer sciences between two universities in the United States and two Japanese universities. This collaborative project between institutions and countries highlights the need to understand the cultures and traditions of each of these countries. To further develop culturally competent technology, an integrative research plan is being utilized, which incorporates the use of community engagement to examine the influence of the cultural context among older adults.