bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nurse Staffing in Nursing Homes During Hurricane Irma
Authors: Jester Dylan , Thomas Kali , Peterson Lindsay , Dosa David , Andel Ross , Hyer Kathryn 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Little is known about the effect of hurricanes on nurse staffing in nursing homes. Hurricane Irma made landfall on September 10th, 2017 in Florida. This study examined daily nurse staffing levels from September 3rd-24th, 2017 in 653 nursing homes; 81 facilities evacuated and 572 facilities sheltered-in-place. Data from Payroll-Based Journaling (PBJ), Certification and Survey Provider Enhanced Reports (CASPER), and Florida’s health providers’ emergency reporting system were used. Among all facilities, we found significant increases in staffing for licensed practical nurses (p=.02) and certified nursing assistants (p&lt;.001), but not for registered nurses (p=.10) before Hurricane Irma made landfall. In comparison to facilities that sheltered-in-place, evacuating facilities increased staffing levels of all nurse types (all p&lt;.001). From one week before landfall to two weeks after landfall, an additional estimated $2.41 million was spent on nurse staffing. Policymakers attempting to reduce the burden of natural disasters on nursing homes should reimburse staffing-related expenses.
Excess Mortality Attributed to Hurricane Irma Among Assisted Living Residents With Chronic Conditions in Florida
Authors: Hua Cassandra , Thomas Kali , Peterson Lindsay , Dobbs Debra , Andel Ross , Dosa David 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Little is known about the impact of hurricanes on residents in assisted living communities (ALs), especially among individuals with chronic conditions that increase their risk of death after storms. We examined how the association between exposure to Hurricane Irma in 2017 and mortality differed by select chronic conditions. With Medicare data, we identified cohorts of AL residents in 2015 (n= 30,712) and 2017 (n= 29,842 ) and compared their rates of 30-day and 90-day and mortality. We adjusted rates for demographic characteristics and other comorbidities. AL residents with diabetes were at highest risk of death after the storm; between 2015 and 2017 they experienced a 50% increase in their 30-day mortality rates (0.6% in 2015, 0.9% in 2017) and a 43% increase in their 90-day mortality rates (2.1% in 2015, 3.0% in 2017). Policy makers should consider strategies to ensure that diabetic residents maintain continuity of medical care during disasters.
Awareness of Balance as an Intraindividual Dynamic of Objective and Subjective Experiences of Fall Risk in Daily Life
Authors: Meija Shannon , Su Tai-Te , Griffin Aileen , Washington Faith , Fanning Jason , Sosnoff Jacob 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Falls are life-changing events in older adulthood. With an accurate understanding of balance, older adults can adapt to age-related changes in physical ability without prematurely restricting physical activity. The Daily Balance Project examines the implications of older adults’ awareness of fall risk in daily life. For 30-consecutive days, following a fall-risk assessment, 40 older adults used a smartphone to report balance confidence and then perform four balance assessment and a 30-second sit-to-stand task to measure postural sway and fall-risk. Measures of postural sway showed greater intraindividual variability than balance confidence and fall risk. Multilevel models showed that awareness of balance fluctuated during the study and varied across individual differences in baseline fall-risk. Baseline fall risk also differentiated how balance confidence and postural sway were linked to subsequent momentary fall risk assessments. The findings are discussed within the framework of action-perspectives of adult development and awareness of aging.
Gender Differences in Well–Being Among People Age ≥ 50 in Medication-Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Angelo Sahil , Mitchell Mary , Perkins Molly , Bender Alexis 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on the physical and mental well–being of older adults with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is unclear, and we know even less about gender differences. This study explores this association and investigates additional factors (e.g., pain, depression) that may affect physical and mental well–being in this population with a focus on gender. The sample for the present analysis includes 90 adults aged 50 and older from a larger study focused on aging with OUD across eight opioid treatment programs in Georgia. We performed multivariable linear regression analyses by gender. There was a small, but significant, association between ACEs and mental well–being for men only. Other significant predictors of physical and mental well-being (e.g., insurance status, pain, satisfaction with social role, stigma) varied by gender. We discuss the importance of these gender differences in identifying appropriate areas for intervention to improve physical and mental well–being.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Exercise: Can They Help Older Adults Manage Chronic Pain?
Authors: Leung Dara K Y , Fong Annabelle P C , Kwok Wai-Wai , Shum Angie K Y , Liu Tianyin , Wong Gloria H Y , Lum Terry Y S 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Chronic pain is common among older adults and affects their physical and psychological well-being. While exercise can reduce pain and promote physical functions, psychological interventions may enhance pain management by addressing the psychosocial contributors to the prolonged pain. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a psychological intervention that emphasizes on psychological flexibility, values, and mindfulness. This approach may be particularly helpful in dealing with chronic pain, where symptoms can be beyond one’s control. This single group pre-post study investigated the feasibility and efficacy of an intervention combining ACT and exercise for chronic pain management in older adults. The intervention consisted of 16 sessions delivered over eight weeks. ACT and exercises were modified according to the individual’s capability when needed. Clinical outcomes regarding pain severity and interference, pain acceptance, value of life, depression, anxiety, and physical functioning were assessed. Twenty-four older adults attended all sessions and completed the assessments. Preliminary results showed that, while participants experienced similar level of pain after the intervention, they reported less pain interference on mood and enjoyment of life, and improved chronic pain acceptance, pain self-efficacy, success at living their values, committed action, depressive symptoms, physical functioning in the lower body strength, aerobic and endurance, agility and dynamic balance, and upper body strength (all p&lt;.050). This study lends support to the feasibility of a combined ACT and exercise intervention for chronic pain management in older adults. The efficacy of ACT may not be directly on reducing pain, but on increased psychological flexibility to co-live with pain.
Senior Centers and LGBT Participants: Engaging Older Adults Virtually in a Pandemic
Authors: Marmo Suzanne , Pardasani Manoj , Vincent David 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Upon the outbreak of COVID-19, recommendations to cease all non-essential in-person social services were mandated across the United States to prevent transmission to non-infected individuals. As a result, approximately 96% of all senior centers in the United States were closed to in-person programming (National Council on Aging, 2020). LGBT older adults in particular were at higher risk of isolation and declines in overall health as they were more likely to live alone, experience loneliness or have less immediate family support systems when compared to non-LGBT older adults (Yang, Chu & Salmon, 2017). The purpose of this presentation is to explore how LGBT older adult participants in senior centers transitioned to virtual programming during the pandemic. Using a risk-resiliency theory framework, the purpose of this presentation is to share the impact of virtual programming on the health and well-being of LGBT community-dwelling older adults. An exploratory, cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing an online survey to understand their needs, concerns and experiences. Participants reported a relatively easy adaptation to technology, steady participation in programs and services, satisfaction with virtual senior center programming and a consistent sense of engagement with their peers. Higher levels of engagement with senior center programs were associated with greater perceptions of social support. Additionally, stronger perceptions of social support and participation in exercise and fitness programming were associated with higher life satisfaction and lesser symptoms of depression and anxiety. Strategies for outreach, engagement and service provision will be presented.
STEP-HI Study: A Multimodal Intervention of Exercise and Testosterone Therapy: Design and Real-World Challenges
Authors: Binder Ellen , Magaziner Jay 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Hip fractures are common among older women and can have a devastating impact on their ability to remain independent. Many women who were high functioning before the hip fracture do not return to their pre-fracture level of function, have persistent weakness and mobility impairments, and may require ongoing supportive services. Age-associated androgen deficiency may contribute to deficits in muscle mass, strength and power that are common in older female hip fracture patients. The Starting a Testosterone and Exercise Program after Hip Injury (STEP-HI ) Study is a three-group, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled Phase III clinical trial designed to evaluate a multi-modal intervention aimed at improving functional outcomes in older female hip fracture patients. 168 female hip fracture patients, age 65 yrs. and older are being recruited from 6 clinical sites in the USA. Participants are being assigned to one of three groups: supervised exercise (EX) plus 1% testosterone topical gel; EX plus placebo gel; or enhanced usual care. The primary outcome is six-minute walk distance. This symposium will present information related to key aspects of the design of the STEP-HI trial, including recruitment of a frail patient population during a period of injury recovery, the testosterone and exercise interventions and related fidelity procedures, and implementation challenges for this multi-modal intervention prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the underlying mechanisms by which testosterone and exercise are expected to have a synergistic effect on muscle strength and function will be discussed.
Expression of Emotions and Genes: Proinflammatory Gene Expression Rises With Spousal Distress
Authors: Wilson Stephanie , Cole Steven , Shrout M , Kiecolt-Glaser Janice 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Marital quality shares ties to inflammation-related conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Lab-based studies implicate hostility during marital conflict as a mechanism via inflammatory reactivity. However, developmental theories suggest that conflict declines with age. Spousal distress is an important but overlooked context for aging couples as networks shrink and assistance needs increase. To examine the effects of spousal distress on changes in proinflammatory gene expression, 38 adults ages 40-81 witnessed their spouse relive an upsetting personal memory aloud, rated their mood before and after, and provided blood samples at baseline and twice post-task. Those whose negative mood increased more in response to spousal disclosure showed larger elevations in proinflammatory gene expression 40 (p=.022) and 80 minutes (p&lt;.0001) after the task. Effects were robust to race, gender, age, alcohol, smoking, and body mass index. These novel findings identify spousal distress as a key marital context that may escalate inflammation-related health risks.
Orofacial Pain Symptoms Among Chinese Older Adults in the Last Year of Life
Authors: Pei Yaolin , Qi Xiang , Chen Xi , Wu Bei 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The aims of this study were to examine the prevalence of orofacial pain symptoms and its associated factors in Chinese older adults in the last year of life. We retrospectively followed 1,646 participants (60 years or older) in the last year of life to death from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). The 6-month prevalence of toothache and jaw joint pain or facial pain for older adults in the last year of life to death were 14.1% and 4.5%, respectively. Older adults who had lower socioeconomic status, were smokers, and had any chronic disease tended to have orofacial pain symptoms. This study generated interesting but counterintutive findings that Chinese older adults who brusehed their teeth at least daily and those who had at least one natural teeth were more likely to have orofacial pain. It is important to include dental care as a part of end-of-life medical treatment.
Shared Decision-Making and Colorectal Cancer Screening Behaviors Among Older Adults With Low Health Literacy
Authors: Cadet Tamara , Halmo Rebekah , McDonold Siobhan , Schonberg Mara 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
National guidelines recommend adults &gt;75 engage in shared decision making (SDM) around colorectal cancer (CRC) screening because of the uncertain benefit to risk ratio. There are no decision tools to support CRC decision making for adults &gt;75 years with low health literacy (LHL). The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to better understand the perspectives of adults &gt;75 with LHL on SDM around CRC screening and to obtain their feedback on an existing higher literacy CRC decision aid. Utilizing the Brief Health Literacy Screening Tool to identify participants with LHL, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 adults. Findings indicate that 80% of participants were non-Hispanic Black and 42% had &lt; high school degree. 76% felt they would benefit from CRC screening despite their age. Themes related to CRC screening included lack of knowledge of options and harms, but a desire to understand more to better take care of their health.
National Cancer Institute's Cancer and Aging Priorities
Authors: Guida Jennifer 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Modern improvements in cancer detection and treatment coupled with the implementation of population-based cancer prevention and control strategies have contributed to a sustained decline in overall cancer mortality rates. Although this trend is promising, challenges at the nexus of cancer and aging are, in turn, becoming more prominent. Older adults (age 65 years and older) are the largest growing segment of the U.S. population, and aging into older adulthood is disproportionally associated with the incidence of common cancers. Many survivors of childhood cancer will live for decades after cancer treatment and mature into older age. Strategic investments in aging research will contribute to population health by preserving or improving healthspan and ensuring equitable access to – and benefit from – advances in cancer prevention, control, and population science. This presentation will describe ongoing cancer and aging efforts at the National Cancer Institute, including programmatic priorities and current funding opportunities.
The New Faces and New Places of Geroscience
Authors: Sierra Felipe 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The field of geroscience is rapidly evolving, as well as expanding worldwide. The Program will highlight new approaches and players in the field. Notably, geroscience was initiated as an effort to improve recognition of the role played by basic aging biology in our efforts to improve the health of older adults. Substantial recognition by multiple players of that role of basic aging biology have resulted in significant interest on the part of clinicians and translational biology practitioners. The program will highlight examples of hand-picked efforts in industry and academia, both in the US and in Europe, and will bring into the same stage researchers interested in the various facets of geroscience, from basic biology, translation, clinical and, ultimately, industry viewpoints.
The Rise and the Death of Senescent Cells: From Mechanisms to Interventions
Authors: Demaria Marco 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Aging is at the root of age-related diseases and therapies targeting basic age-associated mechanisms have the potential to extend healthy lifespan. A common feature of older organisms is the accumulation of senescent cells – cells that have irreversibly lost the capacity to undergo replication. Senescent cells are characterized by an irreversible cell cycle arrest and by the Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP), which include many tissue remodeling and pro-inflammatory factors. Senescent cells are intermittently present during embryogenesis and in young organisms. On the contrary senescent cells accumulate and persist in aging tissues. Significantly, these persistent senescent cells can drive low-grade chronic inflammation, and their genetic or pharmacological elimination is sufficient to delay a number of diseases and to improve health span. Here, I will discuss the mechanisms by which senescent cells can promote tissue aging and dysfunction and the potential of targeting senescent cells to delay human aging.
Exploring Social and Assistive Domestic Robots for Older Adults: Robot Sociability, Trust, and Acceptance
Authors: Kadylak Travis , Bayles Megan , Rogers Wendy 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Older adults prefer to age in place, to live independently while maintaining social connection and engagement with the community. Though older adults can encounter barriers to these goals, social and assistive domestic robots hold promise for promoting independence and online/offline social engagement. However, social robots must be designed to meet their needs and preferences. Open questions remain regarding how to facilitate the development of trust and acceptance in robot support. We investigated the associations between robot social characteristics, sociability, trust, and acceptance for instrumental activities of daily living. We used an online survey to assess older adults’ perceptions towards social and assistive robots. Robots with more social abilities were rated as more acceptable and trustworthy across different task types. We discuss design implications that may promote the development of robot trust and acceptance by older adults, and ultimately help enable aging in place and social engagement.
The Vertical and Horizontal Relations of Korean and Korean American Older Adults and Their Well-Being
Authors: Kim Meeryoung , Park Nan Sook , Hong Michin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Various relationships are important for the well-being of older adults. This session focuses on the vertical and horizontal relations of Korean and Korean American older adults and their well-being. The purpose of this session is to highlight the importance of intergenerational relations and social involvement of Korean and Korean American older adults. For vertical relations, two studies focus on intergenerational relationships and solidarity. The first study investigated whether intergenerational relationships and social support mediate the distressing consequences of life events, and how this improved the psychological well-being of Korean older adults. The second study developed a standardized measurement tool for intergenerational solidarity because intergenerational conflicts caused by rapid socioeconomic changes have highlighted the importance of strengthening intergenerational solidarity. The third and fourth studies focus on horizontal relations involving social isolation and social involvement. Guided by the double jeopardy hypothesis, the third study examined the health risks posed by the coexistence of social and linguistic isolation in older Korean Americans. As the opposite of social isolation, social involvement was an important factor of social integration of older adults. The fourth study examined volunteering as an example of social involvement by focusing on older adults’ volunteering on the social integration and role identity. Implications of this study suggest not only the importance of social involvement but also the intergenerational relationships on older adults’ well-being.
Methods Training to Advance Integrative Science on Minority Aging
Authors: Mezuk Briana , Firestone Monica , Tarraf Wassim 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Minority aging is an inherently interdisciplinary field. However, it can be difficult for early-career investigators to develop skills on how to integrate data sources, study designs, measurement approaches, and analytic tools from disparate fields into their research programs. This session will illustrate how the biopsychosocial framework has been used to structure the content and delivery of methods training related to minority health/aging research in two NIH-funded exemplar programs: the MCUAAAR Analysis Core, and the Michigan Integrative Well-Being and Inequality (MIWI) Training Program. This talk will illustrate how the 20-year history of MCUAAAR informed the development of MIWI, and how both initiatives approach early-career scientist training through: i) centering learning within a mentorship structure to model team science, ii) avoiding false dichotomizes and hierarchies in study designs and data sources, and iii) attending to the unique challenges faced by scientists working in minority health through knowledge sharing.
Association Between Late-Life Hypertension and Resilience to Alzheimer Dementia Among Older Adults
Authors: Sin Mo-kyung , Cheng Yan 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
While midlife hypertension is known as one contributing factor for cognitive impairment and Alzheimer dementia in late-life older adults, less is known about the role of late-life hypertension in resilience to Alzheimer dementia. We examined the relationship between late-life hypertension and Alzheimer dementia resilience among older adults using the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center data from 2005-2020 (n=3,170). Hypertension, captured within 5 years prior to death, was defined as blood pressure (BP) ≥ 140/90 mmHg in at least two visits and/or ever treated with anti-hypertensive agents. Resilience was defined as positive Alzheimer disease (AD) pathology (CERAD score moderate or severe and BRAAK stage V or VI) from autopsy and Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) - Sum of Boxes (SOB): 0.5-2.5 or CDR global (0-0.5) from last data point before autopsy. Student’s t-tests and Chi-square tests were conducted to compare patients with and without resilience. A multivariate logistic regression was conducted to estimate the association between late-life hypertension and resilience, adjusting for covariates of demographics and neuropathological characteristics. We had 55 resilient cases among 1,195 positive AD pathology cases. Those resilient were older (88±6.7) and had higher systolic BP (136 ± 18.2 mmHg) than non-resilient (82±7.9 years old, 130±20 mmHg. Untreated hypertension had a protective effect on resilience (adjusted OR: 3.69 (1.10-13.5, p=0.05). Patients with a systolic BP in the range of 135-145 mmHg and a diastolic BP in the range of 65-75 mmHg had the highest resilience possibility. Unlike midlife hypertension, late-life hypertension may have different effect on dementia, prompting further studies.