bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
EFFECT OF HEARING INTERVENTION ON SOCIAL FUNCTION, DEPRESSION, AND HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Huang Alison 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Prior observational studies show associations between hearing loss and worse social and mental health among older adults. Whether hearing loss treatment is an effective intervention is unknown. The Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders Study (ACHIEVE) randomized controlled trial (n=977) tests the effect of a best-practices hearing intervention vs. successful aging health education control intervention on pre-specified exploratory outcomes including social isolation (Cohen Social Network Index), loneliness (UCLA Loneliness Scale), depressive symptomology (11-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale), and health-related quality of life (RAND-36 Health Survey). Generalized linear mixed effects models test if 3-year change in social and mental health outcomes differ by intervention assignment. Participants have untreated hearing loss and are 70-84 years, 88% White, 54% female, and 53% had a Bachelor’s degree or higher. At baseline, prevalence of loneliness was higher among those with moderate or greater (69%) compared to mild (64%) hearing loss. Physical health-related quality of life was lower among those with moderate or greater (mean[standard deviation(SD)]: 44[10]) compared to mild (46[9]) hearing loss. Prevalence of depression (4%), social network characteristics (e.g., mean(SD) social network size: 22[11] members), and mental health-related quality of life (mean(SD): 56[7]) were similar by hearing loss severity. This presentation focuses on hearing intervention effects and results will be available by the time of the conference (data collection ends early 2023). Existing interventions for improving social and mental health are limited in effect size and scalability. Hearing treatment may be an effective intervention with potential for greater widespread implementation.
DEMENTIA CARE PARTNERS’ ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, AND BURDEN AT HOSPITAL DISCHARGE
Authors: Kuzmik Ashley 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
At the time of hospital discharge, family care partners are typically planning to deal with the increased care dependency and medically complex needs of the person living with dementia. Consequently, they experience compounded stress to their psychological wellbeing. This study examined patient and care partner factors associated with family care partners’ anxiety, depression, and burden when caring for patients with dementia at hospital discharge. The sample consisted of 434 patient and care partner dyads enrolled in the Family centered Function-focused Care (Fam-FFC) study. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine factors associated with care partners’ anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression subscale anxiety; HADS-A), depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression subscale depression; HADS-D), and burden (Short Form Zarit Burden Interview; ZBI-12). Care partner anxiety was associated with higher levels of patient behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD; β=.13; p = &lt;.001). Care partner depression was associated with cohabitation (β=1.30; p = &lt;.001), and patient factors including increased BPSD (β=.17; p = &lt;.001) and lower function (β=-.03; p = &lt;.001). Care partner burden was associated with care partner relationship with patient (adult child; β=-.27; p = .02) and higher patient BPSD (β=.67; p = &lt;.001). Findings suggest the need to incorporate the functional and behavioral status and needs of the patient when preparing the care partner for discharge, which may be especially critical if the patient is discharged to the care partner’s residence.
LOWER INCOME IN CAREGIVERS PREDICTS LESS EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING IMPROVEMENT AFTER CAREGIVING ENDS
Authors: Scheffer Julian , Yee Claire , Wells Jenna , Chen Yuxuan , Heath Diana , Levan Darius , Merrilees Jennifer , Levenson Robert 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Lower income in familial caregivers has been shown to associate with increased distress, depression, and burden during active caregiving. However, findings are less clear on whether lower income associates with changes in well-being that occur after caregiving ends. To investigate this question further, we recruited familial caregivers (CGs) of people with neurodegenerative diseases (PWD; N=36). Emotional well-being was assessed using the SF-36 Emotional Well-being and Energy scales both during active caregiving and after caregiving had ended (predominantly due to the PWD’s death or transition to institutional care, ~10 years later). Household income was measured after active caregiving had ended. Overall, CG’s emotional well-being and energy improved between active caregiving and after caregiving had ended (emotional well-being change: t(35) = 2.22, p = .033; energy change: t(35) = 2.88, p = .007). However, this improvement associated with household income, such that when controlling for levels during active caregiving, income associated with worse emotional well-being (B = -6.72, t(33) = -4.56, p &lt; .001) and energy (B = -8.07, t(33) = -4.99, p &lt; .001) in caregivers after caregiving had ended. During the adjustment period after caregiving ends, lower income may limit opportunities for caregivers to take time away from work to mourn the loss of their loved one or address their own health concerns adequately. Thus, low-income caregivers may experience fewer of the benefits associated with these activities. These findings underscore the importance of providing support for lower income caregivers during the critical period after caregiving ends.
NEURODEGENERATION BIOMARKERS HELP EXPLAIN ASSOCIATION BETWEEN INFLAMMATION AND COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTION
Authors: Klopak Eric T , Crimmins Eileen M 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
There is past evidence that immune aging (or immunosenescence) and high systemic inflammation are associated with cognitive dysfunction and ADRD. However, it is unknown whether these immune-related aging processes are associated with neurodegeneration, tauopathy, amyloid accumulation, and/or vascular issues in the brain.
To address this gap, we utilized a set of recently assayed highly innovative markers of neurodegeneration, biomarkers of inflammation, and proportions of naïve lymphocytes (indicative of less immune aging), and cognitive dysfunction (errors on the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status) in the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative sample of US adults over age 50 (N = 3985).
Using structural equation modeling (SEM), we estimated latent factors representing neurodegeneration (neurofilament light chain (NfL), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and phosphotau 181 (pTau181)), inflammation (c-reactive protein, IL10, IL1 receptor agonist, IL6, TNF receptor 1, albumin, and percentage of neutrophils), and immune aging (percentages of naïve CD8+ and CD4+ T cells). Results indicate inflammation is associated with neurodegenerative biomarkers (β = .31, p &lt; .001) and with cognitive dysfunction (β = .08, p &lt; .001) after controlling for age, race, gender, education, BMI, smoking, drinking, and immunosenescence. Neurodegenerative biomarkers mediated about half of the association between inflammation and cognitive dysfunction.
It appears that greater systemic inflammation may be associated with brain damage and tauopathy. Interventions focused on reducing systemic inflammation may be successful in reducing neurodegeneration and cognitive dysfunction in older adults.
ADVANCING FOOD EQUITY AMONG OLDER ADULTS AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES IN THE US
Authors: Samuel Laura , Kim Boeun 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Older adults and adults with disabilities face challenges related to food insecurity, defined as limited or uncertain access to adequate food due to economic and social conditions. Adults with disabilities have triple the risk of food insecurity than their peers and rates of food insecurity have been rising over the past two decades among older adults and food insecurity is known to be a risk factor for numerous adverse health outcomes. Despite knowledge of disparities, research is needed to identify and test strategies for addressing food insecurity disparities. This symposium will examine mechanisms that may contribute to food insecurity, including local food environments, vision impairment and access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which is the largest food assistance program in the U.S.. National data is used in all three studies to allow population-based inferences to be drawn from study findings. Results have potential to inform our understanding of food equity and advance data-driven policy and programmatic decisions.
COMPOUNDING WEAKNESS IS ROBUSTLY ASSOCIATED WITH COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING
Authors: McGrath Ryan , Parker Kelly , Hamm Jeremy 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Muscle strength has been linked to cognitive functioning, but the utility and discernment of absolute and normalized weakness cut-points for identifying persons at greater odds of poorer cognitive functioning has not yet been examined. We sought to determine whether being weak under multiple definitions was associated with greater odds of cognitive dysfunction. The analytic sample included 17,980 Americans ≥50-years (age: 64.8±10.0 years) from the 2006-2018 waves of the Health and Retirement Study. A handgrip dynamometer measured handgrip strength and the highest recorded measurement was included in the analyses. Sex-stratified absolute, body mass normalized, and body mass index normalized weakness cut-points were used. Individuals were categorized as having weakness under 0, 1, 2, or 3 cut-points. Persons with scores ≤11 on the Telephone Interview of Cognitive Status had any cognitive impairment, while those scoring ≤6 had a severe cognitive impairment. Separate covariate-adjusted multilevel logistic regression models were used for analyses. Persons classified as weak using 2 cut-points had 1.17 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02-1.35) greater odds for future any cognitive impairment. However, for those below all 3-weakness cut-points, the magnitude of the odds ratios elevated to 1.68 (CI: 1.44-1.94) and 1.74 (CI: 1.73-2.21) for future any and severe cognitive impairment, respectively. Being below more weakness cut-points increased the odds for cognitive dysfunction, which suggests combining definitions may better identify persons more at-risk for future cognitive impairment. Engaging in modifiable lifestyle behaviors that are conducive to preserving strength and maintaining a healthy body mass during aging may have implications for cognitive function.
BRINGING ART TO LIFE: EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING OUTCOMES WITH GRADUATE AND UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT LEARNERS
Authors: Allen Rebecca , Carden Keisha , Reel Candice , Potts Daniel 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The University of Alabama experiential learning program, Bringing Art to Life (BATL) pairs teams of undergraduate students with persons with dementia attending an adult day services program and engaging in structured art therapy and reminiscence. Graduate students in clinical geropsychology work with an interdisciplinary team and conduct outcomes research focused both on individuals with dementia and student learners. Across seven semesters, we found that students in the BATL course compared with students in either didactic psychology of aging courses or an introductory psychology courses demonstrated improved attitudes towards persons with dementia and increased empathy. Graduate and undergraduate students learned mixed method and community-engaged research methods, producing clinically meaningful research. Experiential learning is essential to the recruitment of a new gerontology workforce.
THE ROLE OF WISDOM IN ADAPTING TO LATE-LIFE SPOUSAL LOSS
Authors: Cogdill-Richardson Kiana , Bluck Susan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Death of one’s spouse is normative but one of life’s most challenging events (Carr et al., 2001). Wisdom involves compassion, tolerance for uncertainty and reflection, so may be particularly useful in dealing with spousal loss. Past research has related personal wisdom to well-being and life satisfaction in general (Ardelt, 2019). Almost no research, however, has examined wisdom as a resource in the context of bereavement. We (1) expected that higher wisdom would predict better grief adaptation in widowed older adults and, (2) explored whether wisdom effects might be moderated by older adults’ physical status. Participants (N = 54, Mage = 81; SD = 7.57, 62.3% female) completed the Brief Wisdom Screening Scale (Glück et al., 2013) and two assessments of grief adaptation: Inventory of Complicated Grief (Prigerson et al., 1995) and Integration of Stressful Life Experiences (Holland et al., 2011). Hierarchical regression, F(2, 51) = 4.25, p &lt;.05, showed greater wisdom, β = -.27, t(52) = -2.061, p &lt; .05 and higher physical functioning (β = -.27) both predict lower symptoms of complicated grief, with no moderation. A second regression, F(2,51) = 4.44, p &lt; .055, showed a similar trend with greater wisdom associated with better integration of loss, β = .46, t(52) = 1.96, p = .055. Though preliminary, these findings suggest wisdom may serve as a resource for individuals facing loss in later life. Results are discussed in terms of theoretical models (Glück & Bluck, 2013) identifying reciprocal relations between wisdom development and life challenges.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF DEMENTIA BETWEEN AGES 70 AND 95
Authors: Stessman-Lande Irit , Stessman Jochanan , Jacobs Jeremy 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Whilst the protective effects of physical activity (PA) on cognitive function are well documented, it remains unclear if the preventive effect continues irrespective of advancing age. This study examines the association between physical activity and subsequent dementia between ages 70-95. The Jerusalem Longitudinal Study (1990-2023) prospectively follows a representative community-dwelling cohort born 1920-21, assessed at home visit during 1990,1998, 2005, 2010, 2015 at ages 70, 78, 85, 90, and 95 (n=430, 715, 1136, 660, 492) respectively. Comprehensive assessment included Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) defining dementia (≤23/30), and PA assessment, dichotomized to Active (PA-A) (&gt;4hours a week) versus Sedentary (PA-S) (&lt; 4 hours weekly). Logistic regression analyses determined Odds Ratios (OR) for developing dementia, adjusted for baseline MMSE, gender, education, depression and BADL. At ages 70, 78, 85, 85, 90, and 95 the frequency of PA-A was 45.9%, 69.7%, 48.7%, 9.5%, 11.9%; and frequency of dementia among PA-A vs. PA-S was 1.7% vs. 5.0%, 1.7% vs. 12.6%, 10.6% vs. 48.5%, 8.6% vs. 35.5%, 18.3% vs. 29.9% (all p&lt; 0.0001 except age 70 due to small numbers) respectively. Adjusted ORs ratios among PA-A at baseline for subsequently developing dementia between ages 78-85, 85-90, 90-95 were: OR 0.44 (95%CI 0.20-0.98); OR 0.52 (95%CI 0.30-0.90); OR 0.37 (95%CI 0.13-1.07) respectively. Our findings show that physical activity is associated with reduced development of dementia throughout follow-up between ages 70-95, and support the hypothesis that there is no upper age-limit to the beneficial effects of PA on cognition.
AGING IN PLACE IN THE RURAL SOUTH
Authors: Nix Caitlyn 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Aging in place in the rural south involves regionally unique concerns. Understanding the interaction between factors such as geographical isolation, smaller communities, and access to resources is critical for researchers, as results from research in urban areas may not generalize to this population. This symposium will outline regional barriers and protective factors related to aging in place from researchers in a distinctly rural area in the deep south. The symposium will begin with a discussion from Darby Mackenstadt on person-environment fit in a sample of older adults from Mississippi, with an emphasis on predictors of health status such as access to grocery stores and level of education. Carolyn Adams-Price will then review results from qualitative research on older adults’ self-reported attachment to home and local communities in rural Mississippi. Finally, Mary Dozier will give an overview of excessive household clutter as a barrier to maintaining functional independence for older adults enrolled in treatment studies for hoarding disorder in the state of Mississippi.
THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN JOB COMPLEXITY AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN LATER LIFE ACROSS RACIAL/ETHNIC GROUP
Authors: Cao Katy (Qiuchang) , Carr Dawn , Carpenter Rebekah 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The health of older Black and Hispanic populations are disproportionately impacted by cognitive decline later in life. Although cognitive stimulation through work protects against cognitive decline and dementia in later life, Black and Hispanic individuals have less access to cognitively stimulating employment opportunities compared with their white counterparts. This study aims to disentangle the relationship between work complexity and cognitive function later in life across racial/ethnic groups. Using nationally representative data from the Occupation Information Network (O*NET) linked to the Health and Retirement Study’ Life History Mail Survey (n=1080), we examine how cumulative exposure to cognitively complex work between ages 25 to 55 is associated with cognitive function at age 70 in regressions controlling for cognitive function at age 55 and relevant socio-demographic measures. A composite measure of work complexity was constructed from making decisions and solving problems, thinking creatively, coaching and developing others, frequency of decision making, and freedom to make decisions. Results from regression analyses suggest that compared with cumulative exposure to less cognitively complex work, cumulative exposure to moderately cognitively complex work was associated with a 0.74 point increase in the cognitive score (p&lt;0.01), and cumulative exposure to highly cognitively complex work was associated with a 1.25 point increase (p&lt;0.01) in cognitive score. Among those who held moderately cognitively complex jobs, Black individuals experienced fewer cognitive benefits than their white counterparts later in life. Findings have implications for research and interventions addressing disparities in cognitive health among Black and Hispanic populations through employment-related policies and interventions.
MENTAL HEALTH VULNERABILITIES AND STRENGTHS OF OLDER WOMEN WITH HIV DURING THE HUMANITARIAN CRISIS IN UKRAINE
Authors: Rozanova Julia , Shenoi Sheela , Zeziulin Oleksandr , Rich Katherine , Bromberg Dan , Kiriazova Tetiana , Deac Alexandra , Earnshaw Valerie 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Humanitarian crises impact mental health, yet data lacks among older individuals. We explored how Covid-19 and the Russian invasion has impacted older people with HIV (OPWH, ≥50 years) in Ukraine. We surveyed a longitudinal cohort of 123 OPWH (50% female) during four periods: April-June 2020 (Wave 1), December 2020-February 2021 (Wave 2), December 2021–February 2022 (Wave 3), and July–September 2022 (Wave 4). The primary outcomes were depressive (PHQ9&gt;5) and anxiety symptoms (GAD7&gt;5). Factors associated with these symptoms were assessed using a mixed effects logistic regression model that included gender, time since HIV diagnosis, history of a substance use disorder (SUD), history of another chronic condition, HIV disclosure, living alone, and social support. Logistical regression controlling for SUD assessed factors associated with resilience (BRS). During Wave 4, OPWH were offered free psychological counseling through our project. Across all Waves, women were more likely than men to have mild to severe anxiety and depressive symptoms, but also to have higher resilience, and to accept psychological counseling during the war. Comorbid SUD and other chronic conditions increased likelihood of anxiety, and longer time since HIV diagnosis increased likelihood of depressive symptoms. Unlike women, men showed distress discussing “Social Support” topic during the war. OPWH with SUD had higher resilience across all waves. While female OPWH had more depressive and anxiety symptoms during the crises they have higher resilience, social support, and help acceptance, suggesting bespoke approaches are needed to assist male and female OPWH in humanitarian settings.
ALIGNING ASSESSMENTS AND MEASURES OF CAREGIVER NEGLECT WITH INTERVENTION DEVELOPMENT: NEW INSIGHTS AND DIRECTIONS
Authors: Chang E-Shien , Hancock David , Stevens Alan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
As one of the most common forms of elder mistreatment, caregiver neglect is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The unique stresses, demands, and challenges associated with family caregiving likely increases the risk of neglect. Addressing the multifaceted nature of caregiver neglect in diverse family caregivers of older persons necessitates alignment of meaningful assessments and methodologies with evidence-based intervention development. Gaps in knowledge that urgently need filling include refining conceptual and operational definitions of caregiver neglect, validating novel measurement approaches, and identifying effective caregiver-centered study engagement and recruitment strategies. To address these gaps, this symposium will draw upon insights from four caregiver neglect studies across community and clinical settings. Dr. David Hancock will characterize prevalence and correlates of caregiver neglect using unmet activities of daily living needs in a sample of dementia patients and their caregivers. Dr. E-Shien Chang will test the impact of varying operational definitions of caregiver neglect on prevalence estimates and associated risk and protective factors. Dr. Tony Rosen will present a novel, validated caregiver neglect severity measure to more accurately assess the impact of neglect on older persons’ health and quality of life outcomes. Dr. Farida Ejaz will highlight challenges and successes in identifying and involving family caregivers at risk of neglectful caregiving behaviors to inform intervention. Finally, Dr. Alan Stevens, as policy and advocacy expert for family caregivers, will provide summative comments and recommendations for policy and practice changes to better reduce risk of neglect and improve support for family caregivers.
PRESIDENTIAL SYMPOSIUM: EXTENDING HEALTHSPAN AND LONGEVITY
Authors: Rogina Blanka , de Cabo Rafael 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Aging is associated with a functional decline in physiological, metabolic, proliferative, and tissue homeostasis leading to deterioration at an organismal level and an increase in risk for disease and death. To prevent or postpone such deterioration, genetic, pharmacological, and nutritional interventions have been successfully utilized, which lead to preserved healthspan and extended longevity. This symposium will discuss new approaches to target aging and the mechanisms underlying interventions that extend healthspan and longevity. The speakers of this symposium include internationally distinguished aging researchers who have dedicated their research to reveal new approaches to extending healthy lifespan. Rafael de Cabo, from NIA, Co-Chair and speaker in this symposium, will talk about the effects of calorie restriction on physiology, metabolism and health in a variety of organisms. Ana Gomes, from Moffitt Cancer Center, will talk about how aging promotes cancer resistance to therapy. Vishwa Deep Dixit, from Yale University, will discuss immunometabolic checkpoints of aging and lessons learned from CALERIE studies in humans. Payel Sen, from NIA, will present her studies on epigenetic mechanisms underlying tissue aging.