bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Early Neighborhood Contexts on Cognitive Function in Midlife
Authors: Munoz Elizabeth , Yoon Heewon , Choi Jean , Pasquini Giancarlo , Allan Alexa , Sliwinski Martin , Scott Stacey 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
We evaluated associations between objective and subjective early-life neighborhood contexts and cognitive function at midlife. Study participants grew up in different addresses but resided in the same urban zip code at the time of data collection thus controlling for concurrent neighborhood contexts. Participants provided their home address when they were five-years-old and recalled their age-five neighborhood conditions (Mage= 40.59 (7.91); n = 130). Age-five addresses were geocoded and linked with harmonized longitudinal Census tract boundaries and variables. Predictive models with a self-reported neighborhood conditions score, an objective neighborhood deprivation indicator, and other sociodemographic covariates indicated that poorer age-five self-reported neighborhood conditions were significantly associated with lower baseline (Cohen’s d = -.24) and average daily (d = -.21) working memory performance. There were no associations with objective age-five neighborhoods. Results contribute to a growing literature on the role of psychosocial neighborhood contexts on cognition that may extend back to childhood neighborhoods.
Older Adults' Social Stress Profiles: A Cross-Country Comparison of the United States and Mexico
Authors: Wilson Stephanie , Marini Christina 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Older adults face heightened risks for loneliness due to social isolation. Low-quality relationships also fuel loneliness. Because living arrangements and family norms differ between countries, cultural differences may arise in the stress of isolation, loneliness, and difficult relationships. To examine social stress profiles in the US and Mexico, HRS (N=17,878) and MHAS (N=15,001) participants rated their loneliness, whether they lived alone, and relationship quality with their spouse, children, and friends. Five latent classes emerged in both samples: lonely and isolated; lonely with poor relationships; moderately lonely with ambivalent relationships; moderately lonely and unhappily married; and low social stress. Lonely isolation was most common among Americans (23.4%), but least common among Mexicans (14.0%). The highest risks for loneliness coincided with living alone in the US, but with low-quality relationships in Mexico. Results reveal undercurrents of older adults’ social stress that were common to both countries, as well as important cultural differences.
Why Do People Divorce Late in Life? Swedish Gray Divorce Narratives
Authors: Öberg Peter , Bildtgard Torbjorn 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Divorce rates for people 60+ has increased in many parts of the Western world in what has been described as a “grey divorce revolution”. In Sweden these divorce rates have more than doubled since the millennium. But why do people choose to divorce late in life and what is the impact of life phase typical transitions? Qualitative interviews with 37 Swedish men and women (aged 62-81) divorced after the age of 60 were collected, covering themes regarding the divorce process: motives for and experiences of divorce, and life as grey divorcee. The results by thematic analysis show that motives for divorcing earlier in the life-course, such as abuse, unfaithfulness and addiction are prevalent also among older people. However, they tend to be framed differently in later life and be integrated into divorce narratives informed by age. We identified four life phase typical narratives for divorce: 1) Lack of a common project for the third age. 2) Partners personality change due to age related disease. 3) Increased freedom after empty-nest allowing emancipation from a dominant partner. 4) A final romantic adventure as a form of rejuvenation. All these life-phase typical narratives are related to the third age as a time of self-fulfillment, where the partner can either be part of or an obstacle to that project. The results will be used to discuss current older cohorts’ views of family norms and later life from the perspective that current older cohorts participated in the divorce revolution in the 1970s as young adults.
Associations Between Actigraphy-Assessed Health Behaviors and Cognitive Performance in Older Adults
Authors: Laffer Alex , Hicks Hilary , Losinski Genna , Watts Amber 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Lifestyle behaviors are important determinants of healthy brain aging. Research has not fully explored how sleep quality and physical activity may differentially influence specific domains of cognitive function. The present study aimed to estimate the relative influence of sleep quality and physical activity on cognitive performance in three domains in a sample of older adults. Older adults (ages 60-89, M = 74.74) without cognitive impairment (N= 160) wore an accelerometer for 7 days in a free-living environment. We used average vector magnitude counts per minute to measure total physical activity (TPA), and average wake after sleep onset (WASO) to measure sleep quality. We created cognitive composite scores (executive function, attention, and verbal memory) from neuropsychological data using confirmatory factor analysis. We regressed cognitive scores onto TPA and WASO with age and education entered as covariates. Higher amounts of physical activity and better sleep quality were associated with better executive function (R2 = 20.3%, F (4, 155) = 11.12, p &lt; .001). Neither physical activity nor sleep quality was associated with verbal memory or attention. Results suggest that more physical activity and improved ability to stay asleep may benefit executive function, but not other cognitive domains. Future studies should clarify the interaction and mechanisms of action between health behaviors and cognitive performance in older adults.
Internet Use and Cognitive Functioning in Later Life: Focus on Asymmetric Effects and Contextual Factors
Authors: Kim Yijung , Han Sae Hwang 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Despite the emerging literature linking information communicative technology (ICT) use and cognitive functioning in later life, whether the association varies as a function of social environment and birth cohort remain an open question. Using nine waves of panel data from the U.S. Health and Retirement Study (2002-2018), we examined within-person asymmetric effects of transitioning into and out of Internet use on cognitive functioning, and whether the associations vary depending on living arrangement and across birth cohorts. Results from the multilevel models indicated that transitioning into Internet use was associated with improved cognitive functioning at a given wave and decelerated cognitive decline over time. Similarly, ceasing to use the Internet was associated with worse cognitive functioning and accelerated cognitive decline. Further, such linkages between Internet use and cognitive functioning were moderated by living arrangement and birth cohort. The detrimental effect of ceasing Internet use was worse for those older adults who live alone. Transitioning into and out of Internet use was unrelated to changes in cognitive functioning among recent HRS cohorts, namely, the War Babies (b:1942-47) and Early Baby Boomers (b:1948-53). These findings highlight the interplay between technology, social environment, and cognitive functioning in later life. The salubrious effects of adopting an ICT technology, such as the Internet, as well as deleterious effects of ceasing to use such technology, underscores the importance of promoting digital literacy and access to ICT technologies among the older adult population.
Civic Participation Among Latinx and African American Older Adults, an Intersectionality Life-Course Perspective
Authors: Reyes Laurent 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Older adults’ civic participation has received considerable attention, but most scholarship has focused on formal volunteerism and voting. The literature shows that rates of voting and volunteering have been consistently lower among African Americans and Latinx older adults compared to their White counterparts. However, little research has explored civic participation in the context of historical structures of inequality that exclude these populations from participating in formal civic activities and continue to do so today. In addition, other civic activities are going unrecognized. To understand civic participation through the lens of Latinx and African American older adults I draw from intersectional life course perspective to contextualize participants’ lived experiences across the life course and within historical and current socio-political space in which they live and participate. Study’s findings could improve conceptualizations and measurements of civic participation for future studies, and inform efforts to support civic participation among these populations.
Age-Friendly and LGBTQ2+ Friendly Community Initiatives in Canada: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Stinchcombe Arne , Whitehouse Emma , Wilson Kimberley 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Age-Friendly Communities (AFC) initiatives are gaining momentum in Canada and around the globe with many communities making commitments to becoming age-friendly. Aging lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and two-spirit (LGBTQ2+) Canadians are a diverse subpopulation whose social histories and contexts may not have been considered in such initiatives. In response, many community-level organizations have created programs and supports for older LGBTQ2+ persons. Through a survey and environmental scan, we sought to identify and profile such initiatives. In addition, in-depth interviews were held with representatives from community groups to ascertain how community leaders construct and define communities that are both age and LGBTQ2+-inclusive. Participants were also asked to reflect on how their sense of community and support was impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. The findings indicated that many supports for LGBTQ2+ older adults emerged outside of formal AFC initiatives and in response to a perceived normativity among services for older adults.
Creative Arts Interventions as a Way to Combat Ageism and Increase Student Interest in Gerontology
Authors: Ihara Emily , Tompkins Catherine , Inoue Megumi , Barrett Kendall 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Despite the continuous, growing need for health professionals who are trained to work with older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders (ADRD), research shows that recruitment and retention of gerontological health care professionals remains low. Ageism plays an important role in this resistance and continues to have societal impact, even proliferating in disturbing ways during the COVID-19 pandemic via stereotypes, discrimination, and framing in the media. Gerontologists in various health professional educational settings continue to address the need to infuse aging content in creative ways and increase the competency of all health professionals to combat ageism and understand the importance of specialized care for this population. Our gerontological research team has engaged students in various ways to increase interest in aging issues and ADRD. Current research projects involve the implementation of non-pharmacological, creative arts interventions, including Mason’s Music & Memory Initiative (M3I) and TimeSlips, both which have the potential to appeal to intergenerational partnerships and provide students with tools to communicate better with those living with ADRD. We examined attitudes about aging among undergraduate and graduate students (N=78) who have completed our training modules and/or participated in these two projects. The asynchronous trainings provide content on ADRD and the implementation of non-pharmacological, creative arts interventions. We examined students’ attitudes about aging and ADRD and analyzed their open-ended responses regarding their experiences with someone living with ADRD. Various levels of education, relationships with older adults, and life experience influenced their responses regarding their attitudes about aging.
Intergenerational Programming During the Pandemic: Transformation During (Constantly) Changing Times
Authors: Jarrott Shannon , Leedahl Skye , Butts Donna 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Implementing intergenerational programming amidst the COVID-19 pandemic has required creativity, partnership, and dedication to the work. Most intergenerational programs involving in-person meetings or events are accompanied by guidelines to protect participant health and safety. Programming is routinely cancelled or postponed due to poor weather or contagious illness, particularly when a vulnerable population is involved. The needs for safety precautions and continued intergenerational contact were both amplified during the pandemic, leading many to modify or innovate ways to engage generations rather than eliminate contact for extended periods. Technology has afforded new approaches to engage young people and older people with each other; non-technological ways have also proven effective. This symposium will address strategies used to implement intergenerational programs during the pandemic. Authors will highlight lessons learned and strategies they expect to retain in the future. The first paper describes a pivot in nutrition programming designed for a shared site with preschool children and frail older adults. In paper two, authors discuss their partnership-based approach shifting to remote offerings of Cyber-Seniors programming. Paper three addresses how MentorUp Service-Learning expanded its reach by adaptations to virtual programming for older adults in retirement communities. The final paper presents evaluation data comparing arts programming delivered in-person pre-pandemic and again virtually during the pandemic. In each case, researchers and community partners learned techniques to maintain their programmatic foci. Some projects developed strategies they plan to maintain post-pandemic. Donna Butts, Executive Director of Generations United serves as the symposium discussant.
The Long and Winding Road: Early Years of the Accreditation for Gerontology Education Council
Authors: Maiden Robert , Schafer Donna 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The long road of establishing an accreditation entity began in August 2010 when the AGHE Accreditation Task Force was convened. After numerous meetings complete with loud and vigorous debates, AGEC, the Accreditation for Gerontology Education Council emerged in 2016. Over the subsequent years, the Standards hit the hard road of reality leading to various revisions to the Handbook. The symposium’s first presentation concerns the history of AGEC and its further development into an independent entity. The key purpose of AGEC is assuring gerontology programs educational quality and enhancement governed by the principle of self-evaluation and peer review that engenders trust. The next presentation discusses the marketing aspect of AGEC built on getting feedback from the public. One of the outcomes of conducting focus groups and surveying the public is the discovery that prospective students really see the value of accreditation. The penultimate presentation focuses on refinements to procedures alluded to in the first presentation in response to the feedback received in meeting with institutions and faculty about what accreditation offers to students, stake-holders, and ultimately the older adults served by the graduates in the work force. The key goal is to clarify the expectations and simplify the application process. On no other issue has more time been spent than on the assessment of students’ competency. Our last presentation explains competency-based education consisting of well-articulated student learning outcome measures that are consonant with the program’s mission that lead to "closing the loop" of continuous and durable improvements in the learning environment.
Meeting the Challenges of COVID-19 in Long-Term Care: Lessons Learned From an International Perspective
Authors: Wolf-Ostermann Karin , Boltz Marie 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The outbreak of COVID-19 is a major challenge for health care systems all over the world. Older residents of long-term-care facilities (LTCF) such as nursing homes (NH) are among those at highest risk for COVID-19 and comprise a population with dramatically higher rates of morbidity and mortality than the general community. NH staff are also affected by the pandemic as they are challenged by increased workloads, emotional burden caused by the loss of resident life, and the fear of becoming infecting themselves or infecting family members. Finally, the pandemic places emotional and practical demands upon informal carers who are involved in the life of the NH resident. Therefore, research should investigate different perspectives on LTCF during the pandemic and discuss major challenges and possible support structures and strategies. Such an understanding is necessary to optimize care, support post-pandemic recovery, and prepare for future public health challenges. This international symposium will therefore provide four presentations to address these issues. The first presentation will report on global mortality data associated with COVID-19 in LTCF. The second presentation reports on the situation in German NHs addressing the complex situation of morbidity, care dependency, and social isolation. The third presentation will describe the effects of the pandemic upon NH staff in Poland. The final presentation examines the impact and guidelines of allowing visitors in NHs in the Netherlands for residents, family caregivers and staff. Our discussant, Marie Boltz, will synthesize the research findings and lead a discussion of future directions for policy and practice.
Refining the Loop of Continuous Improvement
Authors: Maiden Robert , Abushakrah Jan 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Academic assessment of student competency is essential to measure learning within a gerontology program. In its self-evaluation, a program must assess its student learning outcomes. JoAnn Damron-Rodriguez et al. (2019, p. 423) proposed a systematic approach that has several levels. The key is to utilize a competency-based education model. Moreover, to satisfy workforce goals the gerontology program must adopt the AGHE competencies that reflect the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to serve older adults at an acceptable level of care. The next step involves generating well-articulated quantitative or qualitative measures of student learning outcomes (SLOs) consistent with the program’s mission statement that include twelve competency domains. SLO measures include test grades, assignments, projects, portfolios, field experiences, essay questions, multiple choice items, and so on. The program’s enhancement loop requires the evaluation of SLOs, faculty discussion of them, and a continuous modification cycle "closing the loop" to reach the program’s goals.
Mental Health and Well-Being Among Individuals With a Sensory Loss During COVID-19 Lockdown Measures
Authors: Merten Natascha , Schultz Amy , Walsh Matthew , van Landingham Suzanne , Peppard Paul , Ryff Carol , Malecki Kristen 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Hearing and vision impairment are highly prevalent chronic conditions and are associated with poorer mental health and well-being. Mental health problems may be exacerbated by COVID-19-related lockdown measures and limitations of in-person contacts may affect those with sensory impairments more severely. We aimed to determine whether hearing and/or visual impairment were associated with worse mental health and psychological well-being during lockdown measures in Spring/Summer 2020 in Wisconsin. We included 1341 (64% women, aged 20-92 years) Survey of the Health of Wisconsin participants of a COVID-19 survey (May-June, 2020). We assessed self-reported current mental health and psychological well-being and vision and hearing impairment. Logistic regression models with vision and hearing impairments as determinants and multiple mental health and well-being outcomes were used and adjusted for age, gender, race, education, heart disease, hypertension, hyperlipidemia and diabetes. In preliminary analyses, we found associations of vision impairment with increased odds of generalized anxiety disorder (odds ratio=2.10; 95% confidence interval=1.32-3.29) and depression (2.57; 1.58-4.11). Individuals with a vision impairment were more likely to be taking medication for depression (1.75; 1.13-2.68), report being lonely (1.65; 1.00-2.64) and report hopelessness (1.45; 1.01-2.08). Individuals with a hearing impairment were more likely to be taking depression medications (1.72; 1.07-2.73) and to report being lonely (1.80; 1.05-2.98). Sensory impairment was not associated with stress levels or sense of purpose in life. Individuals with sensory impairment may represent a particularly vulnerable population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Future research should determine underlying reasons and interventions to mitigate this populations’ disadvantages.
Acuity Differences Among Newly Admitted Medicare Residents in Rural and Urban Skilled Nursing Facilities
Authors: Jonk Yvonne Catharina , Coburn Andrew , McGuire Catherine , Thayer Deborah , Mauney Karen 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Using the 2015 national Minimum Data Set Version 3.0, the Area Health Resources Files, the 2015 Provider of Services File, and the Rural-Urban Commuting Area codes, this study assessed rural-urban differences in newly admitted, Medicare skilled nursing facility (SNF) residents’ functional status, cognitive performance, and behavioral issues using self-performance, early loss, and late loss Activities of Daily Living (ADLs); the Cognitive Function Scale (CFS); and indicators of aggression, psychosis, or wandering, respectively. The study evaluated 686,881 unique patient assessments for newly admitted Medicare SNF residents across 15,157 facilities in 47 states. Negative binomial and generalized linear models with state fixed effects and clustering by SNFs were used to evaluate rural-urban acuity differences before and after adjusting for socio-economic factors; admission source, and market area characteristics. Compared to urban SNF residents, rural residents were more likely to be cognitively impaired (45% Isolated Small Rural, 44.5% Small Rural, 41% Large Rural, 38.8% Urban), and have behavioral issues (6.7% rural, 4.8% urban). Unadjusted and adjusted regression models confirmed bivariate findings that rural SNF residents were less functionally impaired (IRR range: 0.974-.987), but had more cognitive and behavioral issues in more remote rural locations than urban. The (unadjusted) odds of cognitive impairment were 1.1-1.3 times higher for residents of rural vs urban SNFs; while the odds of having any one of the behavioral issues were 1.2-1.6 times higher in more remote rural locations. The capacity of rural SNFs to manage complex cognitive and behavioral problems deserves further research.