bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Correlates of Resilience of Older People in Times of Crisis
Authors: Albert Isabelle , Hoffmann Martine , Murdock Elke , Nell Josepha , Kornadt Anna 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, efforts have been made to shield older adults from exposure to the virus due to an age-related higher risk for severe health outcomes. While a reduction of in-person contacts was necessary in particular during the first months of the pandemic, concerns about the immediate and longer-term secondary effects of these measures on subjective well-being were raised. In the present study, we focused on self-reported resilience of older people in a longitudinal design to examine risk and protective factors in dealing with the restrictions. Data from independently living people aged 60+ in Luxembourg were collected via a telephone/online survey after the first lockdown in June (N = 611) and September/October 2020 (N = 523), just before the second pandemic wave made restrictions necessary again. Overall, results showed an increase in life-satisfaction from T1 to T2, although life-satisfaction was still rated slightly lower than before the crisis. Also, about a fifth of participants indicated at T2 difficulties to recover from the crisis. Participants who reported higher resilience to deal with the Covid-19 crisis at T2 showed higher self-efficacy, agreed more strongly with measures taken by the country and felt better informed about the virus. In contrast, participants who reported more difficulties in dealing with the pandemic, indicated reduced social contacts to family and friends at T2, and also felt lonelier. Results will be discussed applying a life-span developmental and systemic perspective on risk and protective factors in dealing with the secondary impacts of the pandemic.
Perceived Impact of COVID-19 on Older Adults’ Mental Health and Barriers to Mental Health Care
Authors: Caskie Grace , Tschauner Madison , Root Eve 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
COVID-19 disproportionately impacted older adults in terms of fatalities, but also increased stress, isolation, and loneliness (Chen, 2020). We examined older adults’ anxiety, depression, and barriers to mental healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic and their perceptions of these variables prior to the pandemic. Further, we explored whether any perceived changes differed based on geographical location (rural, suburban, urban). Data were collected online between mid-June and mid-July of 2020 from 244 individuals aged 65-82 years (M=68.3, SD=3.5). The sample was primarily White (91%) and female (60%); most (n=119) lived in suburban settings, with 63 in urban and 60 in rural settings. Repeated-measures ANOVAs at alpha=.01 showed that depressive symptoms, measured by the CESD-10 (p&lt;.001), and anxiety symptoms, measured by the GAD-7 (p&lt;.001), increased during the pandemic as did mental healthcare barriers related to transportation (p=.004) and beliefs that depression is a normal part of aging (p&lt;.001). Only transportation concerns differed based on where older adults lived; those in rural (p&lt;.001) and urban (p=.004) settings reported greater transportation barriers than those in suburban settings. No differences over time were found for barriers related to help-seeking (p=.403), stigma (p=.156), knowledge/fear (p=.180), finding a therapist (p=.030), ageism (p=.302), psychotherapist qualifications (p=.265), physician referrals (p=.207), or finances (p=.818). These findings highlight the impact of COVID-19 on older adults’ perceptions of changes in their psychological well-being as well as their experience navigating mental health services.
Social Isolation, Depressive Symptoms and Perceived Neighborhood Environment of Older Adults During COVID-19
Authors: Li Ke , Tang Fengyan 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Social isolation has been recognized as a social problem with negative effects on psychological well-being. Older adults are disproportionately affected by social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using data from the 2020 Health and Retirement Study COVID-19 Project, this study examined the relationship between social isolation and depressive symptoms among two groups of respondents differentiated by whether themselves or their social relationships were diagnosed with COVID-19. This study also explored the moderating role of perceived neighborhood environment. Depressive symptoms were measured using the eight-item CES-D. The index of social isolation was generated using five indicators, including living alone, no social participation, and less than monthly contact with children, family members, and friends. The moderator assessed two aspects of the neighborhood environment, including physical disorder and social cohesion. The results of bivariate analyses showed that respondents who were affected by COVID-19 were younger, more likely to be female, Hispanic, and Non-Hispanic Black, and with lower levels of social isolation. The results of multiple regression analyses indicated that social isolation was associated with more depressive symptoms, but this relationship was found to be only significant among respondents who were affected by COVID-19. Perceived neighborhood environment significantly moderated the relationship, as the effect of social isolation on depressive symptoms was stronger for respondents with more neighborhood physical disorders and less social cohesion. This study has implications for practice and policy, in that it underscored the importance of enacting strategies to improve the neighborhood environment, particularly for socially isolated older adults during the COVID-19.
Timeline of COVID-19 Incidence and Mortality among Residents and Staff of South Carolina Long-term Care Facilities
Authors: Lohman Matthew , Resciniti Nicholas , Fuller Morgan , Sellner Joshua 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted older adults living in long-term care facilities (LTCFs), but little research has described parallel infection rates and mortality among LTCF residents and staff in relation to state-level mitigation measures. This study used comprehensive COVID-19 tracking data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), including case report information on demographics, symptoms, comorbidities, and employment. We included all confirmed or probable COVID-19 cases and deaths among adult SC residents reported between 3/15/2020 and 1/2/2021. Residence or employment in LTCF, including nursing homes, assisted living, or skilled nursing facilities, were confirmed by SCDHEC. Cox proportional hazards models were used to compare mortality between residents/staff and counterparts in the community. Overall, 54,514 cases of COVID-19 were identified among older adults in SC. Of these, 13.5% (n = 7,366) resided in a LTCF. LTCF residents with COVID-19 were more likely to be hospitalized compared to older adults in the community and 74% more likely to die (HR= 1.74, 95% CI: 1.59-1.90), after controlling for age, gender, race, and chronic health conditions. LTCF staff had greater infection rates but lower risk of mortality (HR=0.58; 95% CI: 0.39-0.88) compared to the general population. Differences in COVID-19 incidence and mortality between residents/staff and the community decreased after statewide mitigation policies. This study indicates that LTCF residents are at increased risk of COVID infection and mortality, even accounting for pre-existing health conditions. LTCF settings are key sites for prioritizing prevention, vaccination, and training plans to prepare for future pandemics.
Transforming Virtual Team-Based Learning for Rural Healthcare Staff: What the Pandemic Taught Us
Authors: Gottesman Eve , Fernandez Helen , Howe Judith 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
During COVID-19, many training programs pivoted to virtual formats. For the Rural Interdisciplinary Team Training (RITT) Program, funded by the Veterans Health Administration as part of the Geriatric Scholars Program, there were unique challenges. Given a history of successful accredited in-person, team-based workshops for staff at rural and remote clinics, program developers needed to quickly devise a plan for an effective virtual training for team members working separately from each other. Without the ability to provide in-person education and training, rapid pivoting to virtual modalities was essential for ongoing education of those providing care for older adults. Using a web-based platform, team members and expert trainer facilitation, participants engaged in lively discussions and reflection using the chat feature. RITT adapted the curriculum to better meet the needs of busy healthcare providers working during the pandemic, including increased discussion of how COVID affects older Veterans. Three virtual RITT workshops were held between March 2020 and February 2021 with 64 participants from 12 rural clinics and medical centers. Over 90% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that they were satisfied with the virtual workshop, comparable to those participating in the in-person workshop in earlier years. Similar to others, we have found that the ability to flex a curriculum has benefits to both learners and educators and increases the reach of educational opportunities in gerontology and geriatrics. Particularly in rural areas where travel may be challenging, a virtual format may be a desirable long-term solution for the RITT program.
Aging, Empathy, and Prosocial Behaviors During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Cho Isu , Daley Ryan , Cunningham Tony , Kensinger Elizabeth , Gutchess Angela 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Previous literature has shown age-related increases in prosociality (i.e., the tendency to engage in behaviors that benefit others). Can such age-related differences be observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, or would young adults’ higher levels of COVID-19-related stress alter the relation between age and prosociality given the prior findings that stress may promote prosocial behaviors? Can empathy, one of the factors highly related to prosociality, explain any observed age-related differences? The current study examined the above questions, as well as whether age differences exist in target of prosocial behaviors (i.e., distant- versus close-others). To this end, participants (aged 18-89) enrolled in an ongoing study examining their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. They were asked to complete a series of surveys on dispositional empathy and prosocial behaviors during the pandemic. In the present analyses, the data were used from 330 participants from the USA who completed all of the surveys. Compared to younger adults, results indicate that older adults showed greater prosocial behaviors during the pandemic despite their higher risk of physical-health complications from COVID-19. Unexpectedly, empathy did not explain such age-related increases in prosocial behaviors even though it was positively related to individuals’ prosociality. Interestingly, older adults reported increased prosocial behaviors towards close-others (i.e., family, friends) compared to young adults, suggesting that older adults seem to devote more resources into emotionally meaningful relationships. The current study contributes to our understanding of how prosociality differs with age during the stressful period of need that marks the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 Concerns, Depression and Loneliness in Middle-Age and Older Adults
Authors: Curl Angela , Wolf Katie 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The coronavirus pandemic forced many people to restrict their activities and social interactions out of fear and due to local health regulations. This study examined whether one’s self-reported level of concern related to COVID-19 was associated with loneliness and depressive symptoms. Using early release 2020 data from the Health and Retirement Study (N=2,759 adults over age 50), we conducted ordinary least-squares and logistic regressions, controlling for age, gender, education, marital status, self-rated health, and exercise. Higher levels of self-reported concern about the coronavirus pandemic were associated with more depressive symptoms (B=.05, p&lt;.01) and increased odds of being lonely (OR=1.05, p&lt;.01). Female sex, lower education, not being married, worse self-rated health, and lack of exercise were associated with more depressive symptoms and higher odds of being lonely, while older age was associated with lower depression but higher odds of loneliness. These results suggest that mental health assessments should include measures specifically asking about COVID-19 concerns and experiences (e.g., COVID-19 diagnosis, death of close friends or family due to COVID-19, unable to attend important events). The pandemic has raised public awareness of the negative consequences of social isolation and acted to destigmatize mental illness, and this could encourage middle-aged and older adults to seek professional help for depression.
A Path Analysis of Agitation in Persons with Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Kero Katherine , Yarandi Hossein , Schutte Debra 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This study tested a theory-driven path model of predictors and outcomes of agitated behavioral symptoms in persons with Alzheimer Disease (AD) guided by the Nursing Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms. This secondary analysis included data from 48 persons with AD from institutional residences in Midwestern United States. Data included measures of physical, psychological, and situational antecedents of agitation, the symptom of agitation, and functional outcomes of agitation with 15 instruments and subscales. The data were a good fit for the empirical path model (χ2 = 1.049, df = 2, p = .592). Statistically significant paths were found from measures of physical, psychological, and situational antecedents to agitation (B = 0.58, 0.446, and 0.51; p ≤ .001) which explained 63% of the variance in agitation. Functional performance was influenced only by physical antecedents, which explained 66% of the variance in functional performance. While physical and psychological states may be comorbid to the AD disease process and therefore less modifiable, the situational measure was primarily defined by measures related to caregiver burden. Therefore, future agitation interventions should target strategies to improve caregiver burden.
Estimating Dementia from Self-Reports of Diagnoses Among Adults Aged 65 and Over: United States, 2019
Authors: Kramarow Ellen 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Prior research shows that, overall, about 10% of the population aged 65 and over in the U.S. has dementia. Estimating the prevalence of dementia from nationally representative surveys can be accomplished by asking respondents about a diagnosis, by administering a cognitive assessment, or, if available, by examining linked medical claims data. In 2019 for the first time, the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) added “dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease” to the questions asking about doctor-diagnosed health conditions. Although estimates derived from doctor-diagnosed questions usually underestimate the true prevalence of a condition, and estimating dementia from self-reports presents additional challenges, they are still useful for many surveillance and research objectives. Early diagnosis of dementia is encouraged to allow patients and their families to plan for future needs. The objective of this research is to describe the noninstitutionalized population aged 65 and over who have a dementia diagnosis, by selected socio-demographic, health, and healthcare utilization characteristics. Point estimates, standard errors, and 95% confidence intervals for percentages are calculated using NHIS adult sample weights and adjusted for the complex sample design of NHIS. Preliminary analyses show that, overall, 4% of the 65 and over noninstitutionalized population has a diagnosis of dementia. About 8% of respondents with less than a high school education reported a dementia diagnosis compared with 2% of those with more than a high school education. Those with a dementia diagnosis were more likely to report depression than those without a dementia diagnosis (44% vs. 14%).
Understanding Driving Avoidance Among Older African Americans And Whites With Diabetes
Authors: Armah Henrietta , Martin Maya , Browning Wesley , Atkins Ghislaine , Clay Olivio 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic diseases with half of the new diagnoses affecting adults aged 60 years and older. Although African Americans are more likely to develop the disease, they are also less likely to receive healthcare. Importantly, living with diabetes is likely to negatively impact mobility for aging adults as the disease is associated with lower physical functioning (e.g., ability to maintain one’s balance). Further, diabetes could pose a significant threat to a person with diabetes’ ability to drive and remain in the community. This study examines the relationships and influences of social determinants of health (e.g., race, gender, socioeconomic status) and cognition on avoiding driving maneuvers such as driving at night and in rush hour traffic among older adults with diabetes. Data from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Diabetes and Aging Study of Health (DASH) were analyzed and of the 224 participants, 193 (86.16%) were current drivers. There was a gender difference with 94.12% of males and 79.51% of females being current drivers, p &lt; .01. Within the sample of current drivers, 45% were African American and being female, not married, lower levels of education and cognition, low income, and being African American were associated with higher scores on driving avoidance. Cognition explained 30.44% of the racial difference in driving avoidance. Findings from this study will help identify individuals who are at-risk for reduced mobility and identify those who may need to be intervened upon to support a better quality of life.
Characteristics of Older Adults who Receive Assistance with Management of Multidrug Regimens
Authors: O'Conor Rachel , Benavente Julia Yoshino , Eifler Mogan , Opsasnick Lauren , Curtis Laura , Lindquist Lee , Wolf Michael 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Many older adults manage multiple chronic conditions requiring adherence to multidrug regimens, yet half are non-adherent, increasing their risk of hospitalization for poorly controlled chronic conditions. Few studies have investigated whether caregivers support medication-related behaviors of community-dwelling older adults. We interviewed 97 patient-caregiver dyads participating in a cognitive aging cohort study to identify factors associated with caregiver assistance in managing multidrug regimens. Patients completed a neuropsychological battery covering five cognitive domains. Health literacy and patient activation were measured using the Newest Vital Sign and Consumer Health Activation Index, respectively. Caregivers reported their medication-related involvement. Predictors of involvement in medication-related tasks were examined using logistic regression models. Patients were on average 71 years old, managing 4 comorbidities and prescribed 5 medications. The majority were female (73%) and identified as Black (46%) or White (47%). Caregivers’ mean age was 65 years; half were female (53%), were predominantly spouses (57%) or children (26%), and lived with the patient (61%). 31% of caregivers ordered patients’ prescribed medications, 40% helped manage their medications, and 50% spoke with the patient’s clinician about their clinical care. Cognitive impairment (OR 2.60, 95% CI 1.08-6.25), limited health literacy (OR 2.97, 95% CI 1.26-6.97), and ≥3 comorbidities (OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.06-9.30) were associated with medication management assistance. Patient activation, gender, cohabitation, or relationship were not associated. These findings suggest that caregivers are assisting with older adults’ medication management and should be included in clinical discussions about medication management, especially among patients with cognitive impairment, low health literacy or multimorbidities.
Simulating Treating in Place in Long-Term Care: Interprofessional Team Care Video Case for Nurse Practitioners
Authors: Kennedy-Malone Laurie 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
As a means of enhancing clinical simulation opportunities for adult-gerontology nurse practitioner students, a series of video simulations were created for use for nurse practitioner education. With funding through the Health Resources and Service Administration (HRSA) Advanced Nursing Education Workforce grant and partnering with nurse practitioner clinical educators from Optum Health Care, a video simulation focused on the concept of treating an older veteran within a long-term care facility rather than transferring to the acute care setting was developed. The case Treating in Place: Nurse Practitioner-Led Team Management of a Long-Term Care Patient Video involved a nurse practitioner collaborating with a physician, a registered nurse, a social worker, and a family member. The interactive simulation video was developed using the eLearning authoring tool H5P to create learning experiences for students that can be used either in face-to-face classroom experiences or embedded in learning management systems. H5P is a web-based authoring tool that helps faculty build interactive course content. H5P activities provide instant feedback to students, allowing them to self-assess their understanding of the dynamic video simulation case. A faculty handbook that describes the case scenario with the interactive questions and suggested discussion questions is available. The adult-gerontology primary care nurse practitioner competencies addressed for this case are identified in the faculty handbook. These videos have been widely disseminated and are being included in nurse practitioner curriculum across the country. A QR code with access to direct viewing of the video will be included in the presentation.
Elder Abuse Victims During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Administrative Data From San Francisco Adult Protective Services
Authors: Liu Pi-Ju , Wang Aining , Schwab-Reese Laura , Stratton Sara 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This study examined elder mistreatment victims’ experiences at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. San Francisco Adult Protective Services (APS) caseworkers conducted phone interviews to inquire about clients’ awareness of COVID-19 and unmet needs. Nine-hundred-and-thirty-four (71%) of 1,313 APS’ past clients or their collaterals were interviewed, with 741 (79%) responding positively to COVID-19-awareness questions, and 697 (75%) having no unmet needs. Binary logistic regression with Firth adjusted maximum likelihood estimation method revealed that older persons (p &lt; .05), self-neglectors (p &lt; .05), and victims of neglect (p &lt; .05) were less aware of COVID-19. Unmet needs varied by mistreatment type. Victims of isolation were more likely to have medical needs (p &lt; .05), while victims of emotional abuse were more likely to report loneliness (p &lt; .001). Collaboration between service providers is key in assisting victims experiencing unmet needs to live safely in a public health crisis.