bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
RE-ENGAGING AFRICAN AMERICAN AND BLACK OLDER ADULTS DURING THE COVID-19 ERA: A FOCUS GROUP STUDY
Authors: Parekh Rupal , Carolan Kelsi , Powell Georgia , Tocchi Christine 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Churches and senior centers are social engagement hubs for older Black and African Americans (BAA) that can positively impact well-being. Although these facilities re-opened after the COVID-19 pandemic, engagement with these facilities has not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Our long-term goal is to develop a behavioral intervention to address the re-engagement needs/concerns of BAA older adults as a means of preventing/reducing depressive symptoms and disability. In the first phase of this work, we used a community-based participatory research approach to determine barriers to, and facilitators of, activity reengagement through the perspectives of leaders of BAA churches and senior centers around Hartford, Connecticut. We conducted four focus groups with key stakeholders (n=4 senior center staff; n=4 senior, center staff; n=5 church staff; n=4 church staff) between May 2023 and July 2023. Using a Framework Method approach participants were asked to define engagement as it relates to senior center and church involvement since re-opening and to quantify, in their own words, the problem of disengagement. Participants were also asked about the effectiveness of online engagement vs. in-person engagement and members experience(s) with social isolation and loneliness. Line-by-line thematic analysis of the transcriptions was used to identify and group meaningful phrases and responses into major themes. Three organizing themes emerged: “transportation” concerns impacting members during COVID-19 pandemic, increased health issues among members; and issues and concerns related to family support. Leaders from churches and senior centers provided valuable insights into the overarching issues affecting re-engagement among older BAA senior center and church members.
CLINICAL APPROACHES TO SUPPORT MALE DEMENTIA FAMILY CAREGIVERS
Authors: Clevenger Carolyn 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Integrated Memory Care (IMC) is a primary care practice for people living with dementia and their family caregivers. The practice integrates geriatric medicine, dementia specialty care/cognitive neurology, and palliative care along with caregiver services including support groups, classes, and psychotherapy for individuals and families. Finally, the practice hosts various opportunities to participate in caregiving research. Since 2015, the practice has treated over 2500 people living with dementia (PLWD) and supported their family caregivers. The mean age of patients is 78.6 years, the majority (66%) are female, and 42% identify as a racial or ethnic minoritized group. Caregiver relationship to patients (PLWD) is divided evenly between spouse (48%) and adult child (48%) and their mean age is 65.3 years. Men serving as primary family caregiver differ from their female counterparts in choice of clinical services, engagement in caregiver-specific programs, and participation in research. Successful marketing approaches include emphasis on caregiver as hero archetype, a clear message of the return-on-investment of services and activities. This presentation will describe the experience of supporting and engaging men as dementia family caregivers using aggregated data from multiple pilot studies as well as direct input from current active caregivers and IMC program staff.
EXPLORING THE UNIQUE NEEDS AND EXPERIENCES OF BLACK MALE CAREGIVERS
Authors: Turner Robert 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
An emerging area of public health concern for policymakers, caregivers and families, and health service workers is the growing number of older adults with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD). The number of older Black Americans with ADRD who will require some care is projected to triple in the upcoming decade. According to survey data, 30% to 40% of informal caregivers are elderly husbands often caring for spouses experiencing dementia; however, this estimation may be low simply because many men – especially Black American men – do not formally identify as caregivers. Previous research also suggests that Black American men often feel unprepared as caregivers, are disinclined to discuss this role, and rely on informal support resources due to hesitation or unawareness. Although Black Americans are at greater risk of caregiver burden (CB), the body of research that focuses on adult Black American men as primary caregivers of a person with dementia (PWD) is sparse. Knowledge about dementia CB in this understudied sub-population is critical for several reasons, including the rapid projected growth that puts their health and well-being at risk. The Black Male Dementia Caregiver Burden Study examines the impact of dementia CB on the cognitive function and physiological health of this underrepresented population. Additionally, this project incorporates focus group and in-depth interview data that explores Black males’ unique needs and experiences with caregiving while addressing their concerns about participating in caregiver research, including collecting biospecimen samples (e.g., urine, blood, saliva).
DETERMINANTS OF AFFECT-BALANCE IN MONGOLIAN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Otgon Saranchuluun , Burnette Denise , Lkhamsuren Zuchi , Casati Fabio , Mukhtar Yerkyebulan , Myagmarjav Sugarmaa 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Objectives: In Mongolia, the number of persons aged ≥ 60 years is projected to increase from 125,000 (7%) in 2000 to more than 800,000 (25%) by 2050. Current policies and programs are inadequate to support integrated health services that ensure the physical, functional, and psycho-social components of healthy active aging. The purpose of this study was to assess levels and correlates of affect-balance, an indicator of life satisfaction and general well-being, in older adults in Mongolia. Methods: Data are from an in-person survey with urban and rural adults aged 55 and 88 (N=304). Affect-balance scores were derived from the Organization for Economic Cooperation Development (OECD) scale for measuring psychological well-being. Results: Both male and female study participants reported high (positive) affect-balance. Self-rated health, educational attainment, loneliness, and engagement in volunteer activities were significantly associated with affect-balance. Volunteering, a key component of ‘productive aging,’ notably contributed to high levels of positive emotions and low levels of negative emotions. Conclusion: Findings highlight the importance of fostering positive emotions in later life and can inform the development of targeted policies and interventions to enhance older Mongolians’ quality of life and well-being.
BRAIN NETWORKS AND FUNCTIONAL RESERVE IN THE PRESENCE OF AMYLOID PATHOLOGY
Authors: Laurienti Paul 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Background: Amyloid beta (Aβ) is a biomarker of Alzheimer’s disease and has been linked to cognitive and physical function decline. However, significant inter-individual variability exists with respect to the influence of Aβ on cognitive and motoric outcomes. The current study examined the potential contribution of brain networks on this inter-individual variability. Methods: Community-dwelling older adults (n=81, mean age=76ys, %female=51) from a larger longitudinal brain network study were included. Participants were adjudicated as cognitively normal at baseline. Each had resting-state functional magnetic resonance and Aβ positron emission tomography scans. A statistical interaction model was used to determine if network integrity moderated the effects of global Aβ on physical function as measured with the expanded short physical performance battery (eSPPB). Results: At baseline the central executive network (CEN) and the basal ganglia network (BGN) significantly (p&lt;0.05) moderated Aβ associations with eSPPB. Physical function was highest in those individuals with high network integrity and low Aβ. Function was lowest in those with both low network integrity and high Aβ. Neither Aβ-network interaction was significant for longitudinal eSPPB change scores. Conclusion: Integrity in the CEN and BGN may underlie reserve in the presence of Aβ pathology as those individuals with high network integrity maintained their physical function. Given that these brain networks exhibit plasticity, they are a potential intervention target in older adults exhibiting functional decline in the presence of Aβ. Future work will need to replicate the findings in a larger and more diverse sample of older adults.
AGING, HEALTH, AND CAREGIVING IN ARAB AND ARAB IMMIGRANT POPULATIONS
Authors: de Leon Carlos Mendes , de Leon Carlos Mendes 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
There has been a rapid increase in the number of older adults in Arab countries and among Arab immigrants in the US, leading to growing attention to the health and associated care needs due to impairments in physical and cognitive function. Although traditionally, the expectation may have been that the care for these needs would be provided by next of kin, family care resources are becoming less available due to significant social change, such as migration of offspring generations to larger urban centers or other countries. Because formal sources of care are often insufficient or lacking, older Arab adults face an increasingly challenging care environments for their basic care needs. The presentations in this symposium will reflect on aging and caregiving drawing from four geographic sources of information: Egypt, Lebanon, Qatar, and Detroit, Michigan. The Egyptian data come from a pilot study testing the feasibility of conducting a population-based longitudinal study of older adults based on the HRS Around the World Framework, documenting initial findings regarding cognitive impairment. The Lebanon study provides data from a new population-based survey study on caregiving burden and its correlates among older Lebanese adults that provide care to others. The Qatar data come from a qualitative study describing the Muslim religion-inspired belief systems that shape caregiving expectations and practices. The Michigan study presents findings from a culturally adapted intervention for caregivers of older Arab American patients with dementia. Together, these data provide an overview of caregiving needs and practices in Arab and Arab-American populations.
EXPLORING AGING DYNAMICS IN EGYPT: INSIGHTS FROM THE AL-SEHA PILOT STUDY
Authors: Moustafa Sara , Gaballah Nada , Deif Reem , Salama Mohamed 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The AL-SEHA (A Longitudinal Study of Egyptian Healthy Aging) pilot study is an HRS-Around the World (ATW) longitudinal sister study in Egypt. This foundational phase aims to uncover critical insights into cognitive impairment, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and the pivotal role of family support for older adults in Egypt. The cross-sectional pilot was conducted in five Egyptian governorates: Cairo, Dakahlia, Beni Suef, Suez, and Fayoum. Participant selection was based on convenient sample of Egypt’s population aged 50+. Data collection combined computer-aided personal interviewing (CAPI) with a Self-Completion Questionnaire (SCQ), and included comprehensive coverage of economic, health, and social domains including caregiving needs and arrangements. Initial findings highlight a significant association between cognitive impairment and NCDs, such as diabetes (62.3%), hypertension (75.8%), and musculoskeletal issues (61.3%). As in other populations, lower educational attainment had a significant negative association with cognitive impairment (p=0.0001), emphasizing socioeconomic factors’ impact on cognitive health. Strong family support networks were identified as key in mitigating cognitive decline, underscoring the cultural importance of family in the Egyptian context. The AL-SEHA pilot study provides a vital foundation for understanding the aging process in Egypt, highlighting the interplay between cognitive health, physical well-being, and socio-economic and cultural factors. Findings advocate for integrated healthcare strategies that address the multifaceted needs of the older population. Future research, building on this pilot phase, is essential to develop evidence-based policies and interventions to enhance the quality of life for Egypt’s aging population.
LATENT CLASSES OF FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF PATIENTS RECEIVING PALLIATIVE ONCOLOGY
Authors: Becker Todd , Pitzer Kyle , Bryant Elizabeth , Washington Karla 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Family caregivers (FCGs) are recognized as the “invisible backbone” of cancer care, where the national median age of new diagnosis is 66 years. Although research on caregiver retention has prioritized examination of the demands placed on FCGs, research on the resources mitigating or exacerbating these demands is limited. Understanding this interplay is key to supporting FCGs’ continued partnership in care provision. Drawing on the job demands–resources model, we aimed to identify latent classes of FCGs of patients receiving palliative oncology by exploring how caregiving burden and resources overlap. As part of an ongoing multisite clinical trial on problem-solving therapy, we recruited 352 FCGs of patients receiving outpatient palliative care. We collected baseline data through established measures on FCGs’ resources (area deprivation index, disposable income, self-rated health, formal education) and caregiving demands (caregiving distance, number of work-related changes, frequency of caregiving). We, then, used these grouping variables to identify latent classes of FCGs. Results indicated that a four-class model provided the best fit (AIC = 5,337.97, BIC = 5,658.66, entropy =.70). These four classes corresponded to shifting combinations of resources and demands: low resources–low demands (12%), low resources–high demands (31%), high resources–low demands (17%), and high resources–high demands (40%). To our knowledge, these results provide the first assessment of distinguishable subgroups of FCGs of patients receiving outpatient palliative oncology by demands and resources. Identification of these subgroups represents a crucial first step toward developing and refining supportive caregiver interventions to facilitate well-being and retention in service of patient care.
IMPLEMENTING ISUPPORT IN UGANDA: A PILOT RCT FOR REDUCING CAREGIVER STRESS
Authors: Gumikiriza Joy Louise , Lwere Kamada 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Background: Dementia is a significant public health issue in low- and middle-income countries, and Uganda has seen a notable increase in cases. The iSUPPORT program, adapted into AiSUPPORT, provides tailored interventions that address the sociocultural and economic context of Uganda, aiming to alleviate psychological distress among caregivers of patients with AD and dementia. Methods: This pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted in the Wakiso District, enrolling 65 caregivers of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD) patients. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group that received AiSUPPORT sessions, or a control group that received standard care. This study aimed to assess the feasibility, fidelity, acceptability, and impact of the intervention on caregivers’ psychological distress, quality of life, and depression severity, as measured using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale and other tools. Results: In the intervention group, psychological distress scores reduced significantly, averaging 29.2 to 23.7 (p&lt; 0.001), and depression severity scores dropped from 33.4 to 25.6 (p&lt; 0.001). Quality of life scores improved substantially, from an average of 81.1 to 89.4 (p&lt; 0.001), compared with the control group. The AiSUPPORT program demonstrated effectiveness and cultural appropriateness, with a 95% retention rate and high engagement. Conclusion: The AiSUPPORT program for dementia caregivers in Uganda’s successful implementation in low-resource settings demonstrates its potential. The program’s effectiveness, feasibility, and cultural sensitivity underscore the importance of cultural considerations in intervention design, supporting the integration of culturally adapted evidence-based interventions in national health systems to address the complex needs of dementia caregivers.
DOES EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT IMPROVE COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING OF OLDER TRIBAL POPULATION IN INDIA?
Authors: Kumari Neha , Saikia Nandita 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Enhanced cognitive functioning is closely linked with the overall health and well-being of the elderly population. The pivotal role of education in determining cognitive capabilities is widely recognized. Particularly, tribal communities, who often endure vulnerability and marginalization due to limited educational access, predominantly reside in rural Indian regions, magnifying their susceptibility to cognitive decline. Our study delves into the influence of education on cognitive functioning among tribal older adults in India. Our investigation draws on secondary data from the nationally representative Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (2017-18), encompassing 62,322 adults aged 45+ years. We employed continuous assessments of five cognitive domains to gauge cognitive functioning, adapted from the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Linear regression analysis and decomposition analysis unveiled the major associates and contributors of cognitive disparities between tribal and non-tribal cohorts. Regression results revealed significantly lower odds of better cognitive functioning among individuals in the tribal category compared to non-tribal counterparts (Coefficient: -1.33; p &lt; 0.001). Decomposition analysis illuminated that a considerable 77.5% (Coefficient: -2.73; p-value &lt; 0.001) of the divergence attributed to caste-based differences was elucidated by varying characteristics. Addressing the educational chasm between tribal and non-tribal adults could potentially ameliorate cognitive inequity by 39%, while narrowing the rural-urban residence divide could contribute an additional 8% reduction. Notably, among others, the absence of education emerges as a pivotal factor in the cognitive underdevelopment within India’s tribal populace. Tailored educational policies targeted at tribal communities promise to foster cognitive growth and defer cognitive health deterioration.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN LIFELONG SINGLES AND PARTNERED INDIVIDUALS IN PERSONALITY TRAITS AND LIFE SATISFACTION
Authors: Richter David , Stern Julia , Krämer Michael , Schumacher Alexander , MacDonald Geoff 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Being romantically partnered is widely seen as societal norm, and has been shown to be positively associated with important life outcomes, such as physical and mental health. However, the percentage of singles is steadily increasing, with more people staying single for life. We used the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (N = 77,064 in retirement age from 27 countries) to investigate the Big Five personality traits and life satisfaction in lifelong singles as compared to (previously) partnered individuals. Specification curve analyses suggested that lifelong singles were less extraverted, conscientious, open to experiences, and less satisfied with their lives. Effects were stronger for never partnered than for never cohabitating or never married individuals, and partly moderated by gender, age, country-level singlehood, and gender ratio. Our study provides insights into characteristics of lifelong singles, and has implications for understanding mental health and structures of social support in older individuals.
NIGROSTRIATAL DOPAMINE AND PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE FATIGABILITY IN COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Rosano Caterina , Gay Emma , Coen Paul , Rosso Andrea , Newman Anne , Kritchevsky Stephen , Glynn Nancy 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Increasing nigrostriatal dopaminergic signaling can ameliorate performance fatigability in healthy young adults, but its role in community-dwelling older adults is not known. We hypothesized higher nigrostriatal dopaminergic integrity would be associated with lower performance fatigability, independent of other factors that impact physical performance fatigability, including cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle energetics. In 125 participants of the Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging (SOMMA), performance fatigability was measured as performance deterioration during a fast-paced 400 meter walk (% slowing down from the 2nd to the 9th lap, higher = more performance deterioration). Nigrostriatal DA integrity was measured using (+)-[11C]dihydrotetrabenazine (DTBZ) PET imaging. The binding signal was obtained separately for the subregions regulating sensorimotor (posterior putamen), reward (ventral striatum) and executive control processes (dorsal striatum). Multivariable linear regression models of performance fatigability (dependent variable) estimated the coefficients of dopamine integrity in striatal subregions (in separate models), adjusted for demographics, cognition, mitochondrial respiration (assayed in muscle biopsies) and cardiorespiratory fitness (via cardiopulmonary exercise testing). In this sample (mean age 75.4±4.0 years, 59% women), mean performance deterioration was 2.5%±4.7%. Higher [11C]-DTBZ binding in the posterior putamen was significantly associated with lower performance fatigability (demographic-adjusted standardized Beta= -1.18, 95% CI:-2.11, -0.25); results remained independent of further adjustment for other covariates, including cognition, cardiorespiratory fitness, and muscle energetics (standardized Beta= -1.03, 95% CI:-2.02, -0.10). Association with other striatal subregions were not significant. Dopaminergic integrity in the sensorimotor striatum may influence performance fatigability in older adults regardless of clinically overt diseases, and independent of other aging systems.
UNVEILING ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN THE WORK-RELATED AND LEISURE-TIME PHYSICAL ACTIVITY WITH BIOLOGICAL AGE
Authors: Hu Mingyue 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objectives
This study aimed to examine the association and dose-relationship between different intensities of work-related and leisure-time physical activity (PA) and biological age (BA). Design: A cross-sectional study. Setting and participants: We used data of 5,216 participants aged 45 and over in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES). Measurements: PA was self-reported using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ), and BAs were calculated by the PhenoAge and Klemera-Doubal method (KDM). In the analyses, survey-weighted generalized linear models were used to explore associations between PA and BAs. Restricted cubic spline characterized the dose-response relationship of PA and BAs. Subgroup analyses were conducted by age, sex, and ethnicity.

Results
Work-related light-intensity PA (LPA) was significantly associated with younger PhenoAge (β=0.507, 95%CI: -0.957, -0.056, p = 0.031) and KDM (β=0.908, 95%CI: -1.774, -0.042, p = 0.042). There was a U-shaped dose-response relationship between LPA and BAs (all p &lt; 0.05). Leisure-time moderate-intensity PA (MPA) was associated with younger PhenoAge (β=0.789, 95%CI: -1.573, -0.006, p=0.049) and KDM (β=1.910, 95%CI: -3.417, -0.402, p = 0.017). There was a U-shaped dose-response relationship between MPA and BAs (all p &lt; 0.05). In subgroup analyses for older adults, all intensities of PA were significantly associated with decreased BAs (all p &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: Doing PA could delay the BAs, specifically the work-related LPA and leisure-time MPA. Older adults can benefit from all intensities of PA regardless of the PA of different environments and intensities.