bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
MEASUREMENT MATTERS IN EPIDEMIOLOGIC STUDIES OF SENSORY HEALTH AND AGING
Authors: Deal Jennifer , James Bryan , Abraham Alison 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Valid and reliable measurement is a cornerstone of epidemiologic data collection and analysis. Sensory health is important for maintaining cognitive, physical and social function with age, but multiple measures of sensory health exist, and not all are the same. For example, audiometric hearing loss reflects the cochlea’s ability to process sound, while self-report captures an individual’s perception of their hearing ability within their social and environmental context. How we measure sensory function has important ramifications for prevalence estimates and results from association studies, and therefore, public health and clinical decision-making. Sensory loss may also have important implications for the measurement of other factors in aging research. For example, neurocognitive tests are administered aurally or on paper, which could present a challenge for older adults with sensory loss. This session, jointly sponsored by the Sensory Health and Epidemiology of Aging Special Interest Groups, focuses on the intersection of measurement and sensory health. We will report on vison and hearing measures in a large, nationally representative study of Medicare Beneficiaries, with a focus on the recent addition of objective measures of vision and hearing loss, and their implications for sensory loss prevalence estimates, particularly for the oldest old. We will also discuss how sensory loss impacts cognitive testing, including best practices for measuring cognitive function in older adults. Finally, we will present on how choice of hearing measure (self-report vs. audiometry) has important ramifications for population attributable fraction estimates, with direct implications for public health intervention for dementia prevention. This is a collaborative symposium between the Epidemiology of Aging and Sensory Health Interest Groups.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN PAIN AND FALL WORRY AMONG COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA IN THE UNITED STATES
Authors: Zhou Yuanjin , Sadak Tatiana , Ghosh Nayanika , Phelan Elizabeth 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Previous studies have found that pain is associated with fall worry among community-dwelling older adults. However, both pain and fall worry are poorly understood and under-addressed among community-dwelling older people with dementia (cd-OPWD). We thus sought to examine the association between pain and fall worry among this vulnerable subgroup. We used data from the 2015 National Health and Aging Trends Study (analytic sample: cd-OPWD who were self-interviewed, n=1103; mean age: 79; age range: 65-107). The number of pain sites in the prior month was assessed by presenting the cd-OPWD with a card listing common pain sites (e.g., back, knees). Past-month fall worry was assessed by two questions, “did you worry about falling down” and “did this worry ever limit your activities”. Fall worry was endorsed by 34%; activity-limiting fall worry was endorsed by 39% of those with fall worry. Twenty percent reported a single site of pain, and 53% reported multisite pain. Those who endorsed fall worry were more likely to have a higher number of pain sites, and those who reported activity-limiting fall worry were more likely to report knee, hand, or leg pain. In multinomial logistic regression analyses, adjusting for sociodemographic and health characteristics, a higher number of pain sites was significantly associated with activity-limiting fall worry. These findings suggest pain and fall worry are common among cd-OPWD and can be elicited directly from them. Fall prevention for cd-OPWD should prioritize pain management to mitigate activity-limiting fall worry, since activity limitation increases the risk of falls.
THE MODERATING ROLE OF RACE AND ETHNICITY BETWEEN NEGATIVE FAMILY INTERACTIONS AND MENTAL HEALTH AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Wang Fei , nguyen Ann , Lincoln Karen , Qin Weidi , Hamler Tyrone 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Studies generally show that negative social interactions are detrimental to mental health for older adults. Furthermore, empirical evidence suggests that negative interactions may function differently in relation to mental health across racial/ethnic groups given their unique life circumstances and social conditions. This study examines whether the association between negative family interactions and mental health outcomes varies by race and ethnicity. Samples of older African Americans, Caribbean Blacks, and non-Latino Whites aged 55 and older were drawn from the National Survey of American Life (N = 1,439). Mental health variables included depressive symptoms, any lifetime disorder according to The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-IV), and number of lifetime DSM-IV disorders. Regression models were used to test the study aim. Analyses indicated that negative interactions with family were positively associated with all 3 mental health outcomes. Several racial/ethnic differences emerged. The association between negative family interactions and depressive symptoms was stronger among Whites than African Americans. While negative family interactions were positively associated with number of disorders among Caribbean Blacks, negative interactions were unrelated to number of disorders among African Americans. This study demonstrates the racial and ethnic differences in diverse aging populations and the importance of recognizing the heterogeneity of the Black American population in minority research. Clinical practice should focus on reducing negative family interactions, and future research should examine whether psychosocial resources (e.g., stress appraisals, neighborhood social cohesion) can attenuate the association between negative family interactions and mental health for older African Americans.
USABILITY AND PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF THE MOBITEC-GP APP FOR REAL-LIFE MOBILITY ASSESSMENT
Authors: Giannouli Eleftheria , Kim Eun-Kyeong , Fu Cheng , Weibel Robert , Sofios Alexandros , Schmidt-Trucksäss Arno , Zeller Andreas , Hinrichs Timo 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Modern technologies such as the Global Navigation Satellite System and accelerometers which are integrated in every smartphone enable tracking mobility patterns over time, which in turn enables early detection of mobility impairments. Aim of the MOBITEC-GP project was to develop a mobile app which measures walking speed and spatial mobility under everyday conditions. Reliability and validity of the application was tested first (Study 1). The applicability in everyday life and the acceptance by older adults (Study 2) was also investigated. In study 1, participants underwent several supervised walking speed assessments as well as a 1-week life-space assessment during two assessment sessions 9 days apart. Fifty-seven older adults (47.4% male, mean age= 75.3 years) were included in the study. The app showed moderate to excellent test-retest reliability and validity of walking speed measurements of 50 meters and above and of most 1-week life-space parameters, including life-space area, time spent out-of-home, and action range. Study 2 revealed a good usability of the app (mean System Usability Scale score=77.18) among older adults (N=60 with ≥2 chronic conditions) for a 1-week usage of the app including both, a 1-week life space assessment and at least one gait speed measurement in a 30-minute stroll. The MOBITEC-GP app is a reliable, valid and usable tool for the assessment of real-life walking speed (at distances of 50 metres and above) and life-space parameters of older adults. Future studies should look into technical issues more systematically in order to avoid invalid measurements.
DEVELOPMENT AND PRODUCTION OF AN ORIGINAL MUSICAL WITHIN A RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
Authors: Sloane Philip 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In 2021-23 residents of a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) conceptualized, wrote, produced, and presented an original musical about life in a senior community. This presentation will describe that process, illustrating it with a video presentation by the 83-year-old CCRC resident who organized and coordinated the process, video clips of rehearsals and of interviews with the songwriters and performers, and video performances of four songs from the musical. Among the gerontological issues to be highlighted include: deciding which song topics the community would deem acceptable and unacceptable to address in the production; accommodating the physiological limits of the cast (e.g., reduced vocal ranges with age) and audience (e.g., hearing impairment and limited bladder capacity); and adjusting to absences due to illnesses, medical appointments, family events, and travel among the organizers and performers. A portion of this presentation will center around four original songs written and performed by seniors as part of the musical: “Rules of the Road” (about the informal “do’s and don’ts” of living in a retirement community); “The Ladies of Lavender Lane” (about groups of widows who have banded together for support); “The Rhythm of our Lives” (about how the community deals with the high frequency of resident deaths); and “I’m Just a Little Worried about Eddie” (about early dementia). The development of each song will be summarized, including the process by which the song went from idea to production, and a video of the song during a performance.
MEASURING GOALS, PRIORITIES, AND PREFERENCES: REFORM EFFORTS FOR TRANSPARENCY AND EMPOWERMENT
Authors: McMullen Tara , Fisher Anna 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Longstanding evidence suggests that the goals, preferences, and priorities (GPP) of individual nursing facility residents may not be adequately addressed during episodes of care. Aligning care with residents’ GPP represents an opportunity to improve outcomes and reduce disparities associated with race, ethnicity, gender orientation, and other characteristics of the resident population. The 2022 National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) report recommended improvement in quality measures under the domain of resident and family experience, along with reporting of these measures on Care Compare to improve shared decision-making and transparency. The subcommittee on quality improvement and measurement is focused primarily on measures of GPP as a useful addition to CMS’ plans to expand the Quality Reporting Program (QRP) measure set, which was signaled in the recently issued Skilled Nursing Facility Prospective Payment System (SNF PPS) rule. In this presentation, committee members will discuss the identification and testing plan for one or more resident experience of care measures that assess the experience of care specific to processes of care and the resident’s GPP. This presentation will also discuss the development of a care concordant measure, assessing the relationship between the care provided to the resident and the resident GPPs.
IDENTIFYING, DEVELOPING, AND IMPLEMENTING CARE PLANS CONSISTENT WITH GOALS, PRIORITIES, AND PREFERENCES
Authors: Roberts Tonya , Cornelison Laci , Shippee Tetyana , Ciolfi Mary Lou , Ryan Susan , Cook Penny 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
NASEM’s first recommendation to reform nursing home (NH) care is to deliver comprehensive, person-centered, equitable care that ensures residents’ health, quality of life, and safety, promotes autonomy, and manages risks. The NH Code of Federal Regulations requires person-centered care (PCC). However, while there are existing structures (i.e. MDS 3.0) to support care planning clinical needs, most NHs lack tools and procedures to systematically identify and provide care that aligns with resident goals, priorities, and preferences (GPPs). This is especially true for GPPs that reflect personhood and the human desire for autonomy. Our subcommittee aims to change the culture of care planning in NHs to integrate residents and families in co-developing holistic, person-centered care plans that centralize residents’ GPPs in ways that promote and support personhood. Our subcommittee will develop and test a) a standardized GPP care planning process that includes enhanced approaches to identification, documentation, communication, and implementation of resident GPPs; b) a repository of tools to support identification and documentation of resident GPPs; and c) training to prepare staff to understand and recognize resident GPPs. We will collaborate with other Moving Forward Committees to develop approaches to evaluating and measuring quality in care planning with inclusion of health information technology . When completed, the proposed work will provide evidence of successful and feasible quality improvement approaches to care planning resident GPPs that can augment existing federal requirements and can inform future policy changes or guidance to surveyors.
STATE-LEVEL INITIATIVES FOR DIRECT CARE WORKERS
Authors: Brekke Bailee 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
As problems surrounding recruitment and retention of direct care workers continue to worsen, changes have been made at both the state and national level to accommodate for these challenges. This paper provides a literature review of various state-level initiatives and innovations aimed at improving recruitment and retention strategies for direct care workers in both facility-based long-term care and home and community-based long-term services across the country. Research revealed three themes, 1) strategies to improve wages and benefits, 2) education and training, and 3) community support. To improve wages and benefits, many states increased compensation and benefits for DCWs with the implementation of wage pass-throughs, minimum wage increases, and earmarked funds. Education and training efforts were identified as another way to enhance recruitment and retention efforts for the direct care workforce, such as through credential and certification opportunities for workers, as well as standardizing current training requirements. Lastly, increasing community support was identified through advocacy and research efforts specifically aimed at understanding and supporting DCWs. This study seeks to inform policymakers and providers of current initiatives that can be used to address the ongoing workforce crisis.
PARADOXICAL FINDINGS AND OTHER SURPRISES IN PROVIDING STREET MEDICINE TO UNSHELTERED HOMELESS OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Kogan Alexis Coulourides , Mittal Anuva , Lowe Enya , Feldman Corinne 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Older adults constitute the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population in the US. Previous research has found older homeless adults to have more chronic conditions, greater odds of physical disability, and experience accelerated aging compared to housed populations. Little is known about the role of street medicine in providing care and support to aged and aging patients experiencing unsheltered homelessness. The purpose of this study was to elicit the perspective of clinicians and unsheltered homeless patients on aging and managing serious illness. We conducted interviews with patients receiving street medicine and their clinicians. Interviews were guided by a semi-structured protocol, audio recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed following a thematic analysis approach. Eight clinicians and eight patients were interviewed. On average, clinicians were 41 years old, white (50%), and female (50%) with 1-16yrs street medicine experience. Patients were commonly male (63%), had 3+ chronic conditions (100%), and aged 56 years. Thematic analysis revealed four major paradoxical themes around: End-of-life, shelter, durable medical equipment, and community. The clinician and patient perspective on aging and managing serious illness while living outside offer insight into the significant and paradoxical challenges each face when balancing restrictions from the healthcare system, social services, and patient/self needs. Results highlight constraints placed on clinicians and patients by the rigid healthcare system and its incompatibility with the unique circumstances of unsheltered older adults. Findings from this study suggest actionable strategies that hold implications for policy and practice to better meet the needs of unsheltered homeless older adults.
CREATING A UNIFIED NATIONAL STRUCTURE FOR SAVVY’S DISSEMINATION AND SUSTAINABILITY
Authors: Hobday John , Sherman Carey Wexler 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Intervention efforts, including established evidence-based programs (EBP), often can’t support or monitor programmatic fidelity or sustainability when external funding ends. Delivery can drift substantially or cease altogether. This paper describes the development of an authorized entity dedicated to sustain and scale Savvy Caregiver® with fidelity that was highly informed by efforts described in previous papers. The initial stage involved collaborating with the Offices of Technology Commercialization at University of Minnesota (primary copyright holder) and Emory University (lead adaptation institution). Inter-Institutional Agreements (IIA) outlined guidelines for copyright and trademark compliance, research, fidelity management, and content updates. Next, Savvy Systems, LLC, was launched to document current availability and reach of Savvy and manage the training and certification of Savvy interventionists and distribution curricula and materials through a single portal (www.savvycaregiver.com). Fidelity and essential program delivery skills are now assessed and supported via a new Savvy Fidelity Certification Exam and fidelity webinars. Finally, a flexible licensing plan for organizations and researchers ensures legal use of and access to updated authorized Savvy materials. Creation of the first national database of Savvy sites, featured on the website and the Best Practices Caregiving EBP portal (www.benrose.org), enables direct referrals and other support for Savvy sites and caregivers. Taken as a whole, this type of structure is expected to play an instrumental role in supporting the long-term fidelity, viability, and expansion of Savvy Caregiver. Adaptation and application of such processes may inform other translational and EBP efforts to ensure programmatic integrity and sustained use over time.
CAREER COMPETENCE IN LATE LIFE WORK
Authors: Holley Lyn 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Career Competence in Late Life Work For most professionals, ageing manifests gradually – perhaps a practically imperceptible “slowing” of thought occurs sooner and sooner in the semester, perhaps a stiffness in joints or dozens of other cues from our gerontology lectures and texts; “natural” phenomena that signal we should be thinking of retirement. Self perceptions accumulate, their weight discouraging attempts to continue to teach energetically and creatively. Post-docs, pre-tenure faculty, and financially-challenged Deans withdraw, and the “voice in your head” agrees you are not what you were and should turn to figuring out how you can best spend the next ten to thirty years as your connectedness and career competence continue to dwindle. Meanwhile, the need for experienced faculty expands, and support to fund unemployed older adults edges nearer to financial collapse. A review of the literature on these phenomena suggests that excising the embedded ageist stereotypes is likely to unleash and focus energy on continuing to learn and contribute to society. Many colleges already have begun to provide support for late life learning, and to design opportunities for retirees and other older adults to contribute to the higher learning enterprise that enhance rather than shrink available “slots”, and expand capacity for research and education.
CAREER SELF-MANAGEMENT OF LATE LIFE WORK
Authors: Sterns Harvey 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The choice to retire can be gradual or sudden depending on the planning, the opportunities presented, and crises encountered. Issues of self-management will be examined focusing on the challenges faced by older faculty members seeking to continue working. Present and future older academics are increasingly pressed to take active involvement and responsibility for career management. A multidimensional model for self-management of career and retirement will be presented.
EXPLORING THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF BLACK INFORMAL CAREGIVERS: A SCOPING REVIEW
Authors: Alexander Ivana 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Understanding the unique caregiving experiences of Black informal caregivers, most of whom are women, and how they are influenced by the historical and sociopolitical context of the Black experience in the America is critical to building an effective care infrastructure that is inclusive. Gaps in existing literature include a paucity of studies that explore in-group differences in the caregiving experiences of Black informal caregivers as well as a dearth of qualitative studies that center their voices and lived experiences. This scoping review explored current representations of the Black informal caregiving experience in qualitative literature. It sought to address the heterogeneity in the Black caregiver experience through amplification of caregivers’ voices. Specifically, it included studies that focused on varied informal caregiving arrangements which exist for Black informal caregivers who are caring for chronically or terminally ill adults. Overall, 65 studies were selected for full-text review. After data characterization of the full-text articles, nine studies remained and were included in the analysis. Four broad themes were identified: (1) cultural beliefs, (2) religion and spirituality, (3) systemic barriers (healthcare system and care structures), and (4) caregiver health and well-being (physical and mental health). Findings underscore the need for an intersectional lens in exploring the implications of the Black informal caregiving experience. Their cultural and religious/spiritual identities are linked to the historical experience of Black people in the United States. Their caregiving experiences often involve cultural obligations and expectations that create tension between fulfilling caregiver roles and providing for their own health and well-being.
FOSTERING COLLABORATION TO BENEFIT OLDER DRIVERS
Authors: Hemmy Laura , Morris Nichole , Shelton Kyle 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Access to transportation is a fundamental contributor to independence and quality of life, and for many independent driver status is a seminally important part of agency and self-concept. Driving is a lifelong skill utilizing a variety of physical, sensory and cognitive abilities, but also influenced by the community in which one lives, built infrastructure, vehicle design and engineering, social and family networks, and driver insight. Because older drivers are at increased risk for negative crash outcomes, generating knowledge about how to promote safe driving in the older population, when to consider retirement from driving, and compensatory sources of transportation, are of the utmost importance. Faculty and trainees with interest in these questions come from disparate and often unconnected parts of academic research institutions. The University of Minnesota (UMN) Center for Healthy Aging Innovation (CHAI) Special Interest Group (SIG) structure, in collaboration with the UMN Center for Transportation Studies (CTS), has served as a platform for connection. SIG members will share how the opportunity to connect across disciplines, schools and departments has led to new collaborative work to promote safe driving in older adults, including a state funded intervention study.