bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Technology Use Among Cancer Patients Pre- and Post- COVID-19 Pandemic: The Role of Dementia
Authors: Li Weixin , Ornstein Katherine , Li Yan , Liu Bian 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
COVID-19 has highlighted increasing reliance on information and communication technology (ICT) and challenges in access and use. ICT access also provides resources that benefit users’ mental health. Our study describes changes in the use of ICT before and during the COVID-19 pandemic among cancer patients with and without dementia. We identified 196 (1.6 million weighted population) older adults with a self-reported cancer history who participated in both 2019 and 2020 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS). In 2019, cancer patients with dementia (9.9%) were less likely (adjusted OR 0.29; 95%CI, 0.11-0.78) to use information technology (IT) for health matters (contacting medical providers, handling health insurance matters, obtaining information about health conditions, and ordering prescription refills) compared to those without dementia. In contrast, dementia status was not associated with communication technology (CT) use (email or texts) or IT use for personal tasks (grocery shopping or online banking). IT use for personal tasks was inversely associated with anxiety symptoms (adjusted OR 0.22; 95%CI:0.06-0.83) and CT use was inversely associated with depressive symptoms (adjusted OR 0.25 (95%CI:0.07-0.97). In 2020, regardless of dementia status, all cancer patients increased their virtual (email/phone/video) contact with family, friends (3.4%-7.0%), and medical providers (17.2%-36.2%) while decreasing in-person contact (10.0%-15.7% and 21.8%-24.2%, respectively) during the pandemic. This study suggests that there are potential unmet daily needs for patients with comorbid cancer and dementia that may be met with improved ICT access. Such challenges are of increasing concern as COVID-19 has resulted in increased ICT reliance for older adults.
The relationship Between Occupation Types, Education, and Volunteer Behaviors Among Older Americans
Authors: Lai Patrick Ho Lam , Halvorsen Cal , Matz Christina 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Research shows that productive engagement in later life, such as paid work and volunteering, is associated with health and wellbeing. From a life-course approach, personal history and experiences developed from occupations earlier in life may affect individual’s willingness and ability to volunteer in later life; reciprocally, volunteering tends to extend networks and roles from their previous work after retirement. Further, education, which influences career development, indirectly affects late-life volunteering. Using data from 329,938 individuals aged 50 to 85 in more than 700 occupations from the Volunteer Supplement of Current Population Survey since 2010, this study found that older adults had higher volunteer rates (40%) when their current or latest jobs require more human interactions, compared to those jobs were mainly characterized as office work (31%) and jobs not requiring much human interaction (21%). More specifically, occupations with higher volunteering rates were more likely to be related to social, educational, or spiritual sectors. Some careers seem to provide skills and networks needed in volunteer roles, such as accounting clerks (ranked 12th in volunteering) and museum technicians (ranked 13th). Diverse educational levels make the relationship between occupation and volunteering more complex. For instance, those older adults without a high school diploma and who have office work as their current or latest job (16%) have higher volunteering rates than those occupations requiring (14%) or not requiring much human interaction (10%). Policymakers can take the human interactions and skills needed in careers and educational levels into account when thinking of strategies to promote volunteering.
Best Practices to Overcome Barriers to Capacity Evaluations
Authors: Factora Ronan , Saxena Saket 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Because of the increasing incidence of elder abuse and financial exploitation, Adult Protective Services (APS) cases open for these individuals often relay on capacity evaluations conducted by a clinician to facilitate legal assignment of a surrogate decision maker. Despite this growing need, the number of physicians willing and capable of performing them is limited. Barriers reported by physicians reportedly impair their ability to conduct these evaluations include absence of relevant case information and lack of knowledge about the process itself. Geriatricians and related clinicians often perform these assessments. Sharing best practices with internists and family physicians may help overcome these barriers. A survey of geriatric medicine providers was conducted to identify essential components and questions necessary in the assessment of general decision making capacity. Twenty-nine providers at 6 academic institutions in Ohio responded to the survey and its follow-up inquiries. Though variability existed in evaluation styles and content between providers, a uniform set of recommendations was able to be generated. A total of 13 different summary recommendations were generated from this survey. Necessary components to these evaluations include (1) performance of cognitive testing (2) obtaining collateral information regarding functional status from another trusted individual (3) assessing the individual’s insight into any reported functional impairments or safety concerns by explaining discrepancies between that individual’s own observations and reported concerns from the trusted individual, and (4) using hypothetical situations to assess a person’s judgment and reasoning in addressing any gaps in care or safety concerns raised during the interview.
Development of a locator device usability scale for persons with dementia at risk of getting lost
Authors: Neubauer Noelannah , Spenrath Christa , Philip Serrina , Daum Christine , Liu Lili , Miguel-Cruz Antonio 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
There is an increasing number of persons living with dementia who live alone. Recent COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have resulted in more persons receiving care remote through information and communication technologies. Locating technologies can be a tool to help care partners monitor their loved ones living with dementia. These devices can also mitigate risks associated with going missing, by reducing time for search and returning the lost person home safely. However, there is no clear, standardized approach to assess the usability of these devices. The purpose of this study was to develop a locator device usability scale for persons living with dementia at risk of getting lost. A two-phase study that utilized a multi-method design and included participatory and iterative strategies was conducted. In the first phase, an item pool was generated through online focus groups with service providers, technology developers, care partners and persons living with dementia. The second phase refined the item pool using an online survey and online focus groups with the same stakeholder groups. Five overarching categories were identified as important for the usability of locating device: features, inclusivity, simplicity, aesthetic appeal, and ethics. Participants identified the need for multiple versions of the usability scale including one specifically for persons living with dementia. The newly developed locator device usability scale can enhance the acceptance of these devices, thereby supporting remote caregiving and promote the safety and autonomy of persons living with dementia.
Employers’ Response to Workers With Progressive Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: McMurray Josephine , Levy AnneMarie , Reis Logan , Kokorelias Kristina , Boger Jennifer , Astell Arlene 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
An aging workforce increases the risk of workers experiencing cognitive decline that may lead to a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or early onset dementia (MCI|EOD) while still employed. This systematic review explores the use of technologies (defined as any methods, processes, software, hardware or equipment) deployed by employers to accommodate, or build sustainable workspaces for, workers diagnosed with MCI|EOD. After screening 3,860 titles/abstracts and 67 full text reviews, we identified and analyzed eight articles that met our inclusion criteria. We found that: 1) The existing literature almost exclusively focuses on employees’ perspectives on the quality of work life when diagnosed with MCI|EOD, 2) Negative workspace culture toward employees’ cognitive decline, and the variability of disease onset and progression, may account for low employer awareness, 3) Employer responses focus on mitigation of risk associated with workers’ impairment. While this review demonstrates there is scant research exploring employers’ perspectives on employees diagnosed with MCI|EOD, there is even less that explores technologies designed to specifically address employers’ needs and challenges. Technology will increasingly facilitate early identification of progressive neuro-cognitive disorders, and tools to help employers respond to an employee’s MCI|EOD disclosure as a disability accommodation rather than a terminal performance management challenge. Empathic research, that engages organizations in the process of understanding the value of affordable, employer-side technologies that help build diverse, sustainable, productive workspaces is critical to a foundational understanding of our aging workforce and accommodating workers who develop MCI|EOD while still employed.
Older Adults and the Impact of COVID-19: Lessons Learned from a Two-State Study
Authors: Sokan Amanda , Davis Tracy 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased strains on the rapidly increasing aging population’s mental, emotional, and physiological health. COVID-19, which belongs to a family of respiratory viruses, was first detected in China before spreading to other parts of the globe. Due to underlying health conditions and weakened immune systems, the aging population is at greater risk for contracting COVID-19. To better prepare for a future pandemic, it is necessary to explore the psychosocial impacts of limited human interactions to make the aging population feel safer while mitigating harm to their mental and emotional health. The purpose of this study is to highlight the experiences of the aging population with COVID-19, including psychosocial, behavioral responses to the pandemic, and older adults’ overall well-being. We surveyed a total of 203 adults 55 and older regarding their experiences with the pandemic. Survey components included the COVID-19 Household Environment Scale (Behar-Zusman, Chavez, & Gattamorta, ND), selected items from the COVID-19 Impact Study and open-ended questions, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment (Williams et al., 2006), and the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Russell, Peplau, & Ferguson, 1978). Preliminary analyses indicate that most participants had not experienced any COVID-19 symptoms, nor did they know anyone who had passed away from the virus. However, participants did report loneliness and less family cohesion because of the pandemic. Findings from this study will be used to help older adults cope with the impact of the current pandemic and future pandemics.
Older Age and Other Protective Factors of Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the US
Authors: Smith Kelly , Chappell Amanda , Spalding Rachael , Wilson Jenna , Haliwa Ilana , Strough JoNell 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Research conducted early in the COVID-19 pandemic (i.e., March 2020) suggested that older adults were less likely to experience negative pandemic-related mental health than younger people. We investigated whether this age-related advantage persisted during the July 2020 spike in COVID-19 cases and investigated links between coping strategies and mental health. We used data from the Understanding America Study (UAS) to conduct a secondary data analysis of participants (N = 5,753) aged 18-110 years (M=46.20, SD=12.88) who completed online self-report surveys twice—once immediately prior to the July spike in cases, and again during the spike. Surveys assessed engagement in protective behaviors (e.g., wearing a mask, washing hands), coping strategies (e.g., calling family/friends, getting extra exercise, meditating), and anxiety and depressive symptoms (using the Patient Health Questionnaire PHQ-4). Multiple regression analyses were used to identify predictors of anxiety and depression during the spike, controlling for previous anxiety and depression, race, ethnicity, income, education, and marital status. Older age and engaging in protective behaviors were associated with less anxiety, whereas coping by calling family/friends was associated with more symptoms, R2 = .71, F(16, 5736) = 885.90, p &lt; .001. Coping by calling and getting extra exercise were associated with fewer depressive symptoms, whereas coping by using social media was associated with more symptoms, R2 = .72, F(16, 5736) = 906.65, p &lt; .001. These findings highlight age as a protective factor for anxiety but not for depression and underscore the importance of social support as a protective factor for mental health.
Lower Wages of Nurses in Long-Term Care: Does Racial and Ethnic Diversity Explain the Difference?
Authors: Spetz Joanne , Wagner Laura , Bates Timothy 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Registered nurses (RNs) are a key component of the long-term care (LTC) workforce and prior research demonstrates their importance to ensuring patient safety in LTC settings. RNs who work in LTC settings earn less than those who work in hospitals and also are more likely to be from racial and ethnic minority groups. This study seeks to measure wage differences between Registered Nurses (RNs) working in LTC and other settings (e.g., hospitals) and whether differences are associated with the characteristics of the RN workforce between and within settings. We used the 2018 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses (NSSRN) public-use file to examine RN employment and earnings. Our study population included a sample of 15,373 employed RNs who provided patient care. Characteristics such as race/ethnicity, type of RN degree completed, census region, and union status were included in bivariate analyses and multiple regression analyses to examine the effect of these characteristics on wages. Logistic regression was used to predict RN employment in LTC settings. We found that RNs in LTC experienced lower wages compared to those in non-LTC settings, yet this difference was not associated with racial/ethnic or international educational differences. LTC nurses were also significantly less likely to be represented by a labor union, and there was not a statistically significant wage difference for LTC RNs who were unionized. Because RNs in LTC earn lower wages than RNs in other settings, policies to minimize pay inequities are needed to support the RN workforce caring for frail older adults.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Participation in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Nguyen Khang , Macedo Luciana , Vrkljan Brenda , Kirkwood Renata , Ma Jinhui , Beauchamp Marla 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Public health guidelines to prevent spreading COVID-19 place older adults at risk of loneliness and social isolation. Evidence suggests that participation protects older adults from such detrimental outcomes, therefore we aimed to identify the factors associated with participation in life roles among older adults living in the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted a telesurvey on a random sample of community-dwelling older adults living in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, between May and July 2020. Outcome measures included participation in life roles, physical function, physical activity, mobility, mental health, nutrition, and demographics. We conducted two multivariate regression analyses with the Late Life Disability Instrument’s (LLDI) frequency and limitations scales as the dependent variables. Candidate factors were organized by International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework domains; personal factors, body functions and structures, activities, and environmental factors. A total of 272 older adults completed the telesurvey (mean age 78 ±7.3 yrs, 70% female). Age, using walking aids, driving status, household income, education, mental health, nutrition, physical function, and dwelling type explained 47.1% (p&lt;0.001) of the variance observed in LLDI frequency scores. Using walking aids, driving status, receiving health assistance, mental health, and physical function explained 33.9% (p&lt;0.001) of the variance observed in LLDI limitation scores. These findings highlight factors from multiple ICF domains that are associated with participation limitation and frequency among older adults during the pandemic. Our findings have implications for developing public health initiatives to mitigate the effects of the pandemic on the participation of older adults.
Higher Star, Better Performance in US Nursing Homes during the Covid-19 Pandemic ?
Authors: Yu Lei , Qiu Xiao , Rose Tara 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The Covid-19 pandemic has brought terrible difficulties to nursing homes, as they were locations with the highest number of confirmed Covid-19 cases and deaths in the US. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) applies the Five-Star Quality Ratings to indicate the quality of care in nursing homes based on health inspection survey, staffing, and resident outcome. Studies to date have contradictory findings regarding the relationship between nursing home reported Quality Ratings and Covid-19 cases and deaths based on US regional data. The purpose of this study is to examine whether nursing homes’ Quality Ratings were related to the total number of resident Covid-19 cases and deaths at the US National level. The study examined US nursing homes (N=13,494) linked with CMS Nursing Home Compare data and Covid-19 Nursing Home data. Using multiple linear regression analyses, results showed nursing home Quality Ratings were significantly associated with Covid-19 residents’ cases and deaths controlling for ownership type, size, occupation rate, and years of operation (p&lt;.001; p&lt;.001). Five-star nursing homes were less likely to have Covid-19 cases and deaths. Further, comparing lower Star Ratings nursing homes, 1-Star nursing homes showed no significant difference to 2-Star and 3-Star nursing homes when examining Covid-19 cases and deaths. Overall, the Five-Star Quality Ratings is a useful measure when investigating nursing homes’ performance during the Covid-19 pandemic. Future policymakers and administrators should also focus on nursing homes with lower star ratings when improving the quality of nursing homes, particularly with regard to resident health.
Relationship between Social Determinants of Health and Loneliness during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Padala Kalpana , Crawford Christina , Gauss Clinton , Wright Benjamin , Phillips Olive , Dennis Richard , Lum Hillary , Padala Prasad 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Background: Older adults are most vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to other populations. Risk factors for loneliness include old age, rural living, number of medical comorbidities, and poor social networks. The objectives of this study were to examine the prevalence of loneliness in older adults during COVID-19 and determine the correlation between social determinants of health and loneliness. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in community dwelling older Veterans (N=132). Demographic data were collected along with variables related to social determinants of health. Loneliness data were collected with the 3-item loneliness questionnaire, and social network was assessed using the 6-item Lubben social network scale. Results: Demographic data included: mean age 73.3 (±7.5) years, 93.2% male, 53.5% rural, 84.1% Caucasian, and 13.6% African American. The majority of the participants reported loneliness (65.6%). Mean Lubben social network score was 14.6 (±6.6). There was a strong negative correlation between loneliness and social network (p&lt;0.0001, r=-0.57; 95% CI: -0.67, -0.44). The prevalence of loneliness was significantly greater in those living alone compared to those not living alone (p=0.017; 83.9% vs. 60.6%) and those lacking internet access compared to those with internet access (p=0.025; 86.4% vs. 61.5%). Conclusion: Loneliness was found to be highly prevalent in an older cohort during the COVID pandemic. Routine inquiry about loneliness is important. Social determinants of health are likely correlated with the presence of loneliness in older adults and could be greatly impacted by policy decisions made to control community disease transmission.
Looking for a bright side: Tales from a recreational therapy virtual service-learning project during a pandemic
Authors: Doughty Alyssa , Taylor Jennifer 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The everchanging policies and inability to utilize university students due to COVID-19 impacted both residents living in long-term care as well as the next generation of students pursuing careers in the field. University Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL) faculty strategized solutions as restrictions threatened to impact hands-on opportunities for students. Was there a safe and effective solution to offer residents evidence-based programming while also providing students with vital field experience? Simply stated, the answer was yes. Thus, the UWL Happiness Project was born. This session will outline the UWL Happiness Project, a ten-week, telehealth program implemented between a skilled nursing facility in rural Wisconsin and the UWL Therapeutic Recreation Program, an AGHE Program of Merit for Health Professions designated program. The evidence-based curriculum was developed by an emerging UWL graduate student scholar with faculty mentorship. The innovative curriculum focuses on increasing feelings of happiness using PERMA, a theoretical model grounded in positive psychology. During virtual sessions, older adult residents (ages 65-85) and students built connection while working through weekly focus areas (e.g. vitality, mindfulness, friendship). An overview of AGHE competencies addressed within the project, online course demonstration, and assignment development will be discussed along with information about how these connections fostered an opportunity for students to see aging from a different perspective. This is the first time we are presenting results from the newly developed program. In this, we look forward to sharing student measurements and outcomes, as well as lessons learned during this meaningful, stimulating, and insightful educational session.