bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
FAITH IN ACTION BRAIN HEALTH PROGRAM: ADDRESSING BRAIN HEALTH EQUITY GAPS IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY
Authors: Epps Fayron , Chester Mia , Gore Janelle , Brewster Glenna , Sainz Mayra , Frazier Robbin , Monroe Stephanie , Biggar Virginia 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Black populations are disproportionately impacted by dementia, being twice as likely to be diagnosed with dementia as White people. To help address brain health equity gaps across the country, a partnership between Alter and UsAgainstAlzheimer’s BrainGuide was established to launch, Faith in Action, a campaign and brain health education program to provide culturally appropriate brain health resources to Black faith communities. The campaign makes brain health education free and accessible by integrating the latest information about brain health into a toolkit delivered to faith communities. This presentation will describe the campaign and discuss why faith leaders say brain health is important to Black faith communities. This campaign included the distribution of: a) Fact sheets b) Culturally tailored messaging; c) Church fans, bookmarks, and buttons; and d) A guidebook to integrating brain health messaging. In relation to the importance of brain health, the following 5 themes emerged from faith leaders (N = 33) implementing the Alter program: a) Desire to disrupt statistics; b) Urgency and being proactive; c) Offer valuable intergenerational education programs; d) Establish a level of wellness in underserved communities; and e) Protect older adults. The Faith in Action campaign empowers Black faith communities to foster conversations and educate their community members about brain health. This campaign assists in promoting brain health equity by recognizing the significance of partnering with Black churches, a cornerstone of the Black community. Such partnerships are crucial to increasing equitable access to resources and supportive services, and eradicating dementia-related disparities in the Black community.
SEX AND ETHNICITY-RELATED DISPARITIES IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AMONG RESIDENTS OF SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES
Authors: Yashkin Arseniy , Akushevich Igor 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Residents of nursing homes represent a special subset of the population characterized by increased vulnerability and higher rates of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Nursing home ethnic composition does not reflect that of the general population with minorities more likely to be concentrated in facilities with serious deficiencies, and to have lower health status at time of admission. Significant ethnic disparities in quality-of-care aspects such as hospitalizations, preventive care, and the management of chronic conditions exist and these patterns extend to sex and ethnicity-specific subgroups of individuals with AD. However, there is a paucity of knowledge on the actual size of sex and ethnicity-related disparities in AD within this high-risk population. In this study we used 100% of all nursing home resident evaluations (N=23,080,518; Male:40.66%; Female:59.34%; White: 77.29%; Black:11.62%; Other:3.80%; Hispanic:4.97%; Asian:1.81%; Pacific Islander:0.15%; Native American Native:0.39%), 1999-2012, from the Minimum Dataset to assess sex and ethnicity-specific differences in age-specific prevalence of AD. Total AD prevalence increases sharply (numbers are prevalence proportions with 95% confidence intervals in parentheses) from 1.79 (1.75-1.84) at age 60 to 13.45 (13.39-13.51) at 85. Notable statistically significant sex and ethnicity-related disparities were present at all ages. For example, at age 85 the prevalence of AD was for: i)Males: 11.34 (11.24-11.44); ii)Females: 14.53 (14.45-14.62); iii)Whites: 13.21 (13.14-13.28); iv)Blacks: 15.32 (15.09-15.55); v)Other/Unknown: 9.75 (9.42-10.07); vi)Hispanics: 18.17 (17.82-18.52); vii)Asians: 11.30 (10.87-11.72); viii)Pacific Islanders: 10.33 (8.65-12.01); ix)North American Natives: 11.78 (10.62-12.94). In depth analysis of the causes, time-trends, and geographic distribution of these disparities is needed.
THE LTSS STATE SCORECARD AND AGE-FRIENDLY CARE
Authors: Snyder Rani 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Age-friendly care is health care that addresses a person’s unique needs and wants across the lifespan. It is a critical part of the age-friendly ecosystem. Rooted in the essential elements known as the “4Ms” (what Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility), age friendly care is critical to successful delivery systems of health care as well as long-term services and supports. For the first time in its history, the LTSS State Scorecard will measure states as it relates to the presence of Age-Friendly Health System sites. Age-Friendly Health Systems is an initiative of The John A. Hartford Foundation and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, and helps hospitals, doctor’s offices, retail pharmacy clinics, nursing homes, and home-care providers deliver age-friendly care. This portion of the symposium will describe Scorecard findings on Age-Friendly Health Systems and address more broadly the important role of age-friendly care in LTSS.
COGNITIVE MISPERCEPTION, DISABILITY, AND MORTALITY AMONG OLDER ADULTS IN 25 COUNTRIES
Authors: Lin Zhuoer , Schlesinger Mark , Chen Xi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Despite a large body of literature on cognitive ability and health, less is known about the health consequences of biased cognitive perception. Using harmonized and nationally representative longitudinal surveys from 25 countries spanning Asia, Europe and the Americas, we document the growing gap between actual and perceived cognitive ability that appears to increase with age, and construct a standardized measure of cognitive misperception. Linking this novel measure with mortality and disability, we model the cognitive misperception – health gradient. Results show that being in the upper quartile of cognitive misperception (i.e., showing heightened overconfidence in cognition) leads to higher mortality rates within 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years. Conditional on survival, being overconfident in cognition also greatly increases the risks of incident disability and frailty, especially for older adults receiving less family support. We identify two possible pathways inducing poorer outcomes: the first stemming from increased risk taking and financial vulnerability; the second associated with suboptimal use of preventive services and declines in health-promoting behaviors. Given the large and profound impacts of cognitive misperception on older adults’ health and well-being, more family and social supports, public investment in education and health literacy, and better healthcare access and affordability are needed to increase the timely awareness of cognitive decline.
DISPARITIES IN CONTINUITY OF CARE AND USE OF ANNUAL WELLNESS VISITS AMONG OLDER AMERICANS WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Mahmoudi Elham 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Working on a risk-adjusted, prospective, capitated payment system, Medicare Advantage (MA) plans are incentivized to offer more efficient and coordinated care than traditional Medicare (TM). This study has two aims: (1) compare the continuity of care and use of annual wellness visits between MA and TM enrollees with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD), and (2) examine Hispanic-White and Black-White disparities in the continuity of care and annual wellness visits by comparing MA with TM enrollees with ADRD. We used a 20% random sample of TM and MA insurance claims (2018-2019). Participants included individuals 65+, with a diagnosis of ADRD, and two years of continuous enrollment in TM (n=129,177) or MA (n=119,130). We used the Bice-Boxerman Continuity of Care Index to measure continuity of care. Generalized linear models were applied. TM lowered the odds of Black and Hispanic individuals having an annual wellness visit [OR=.80 (95% CI:.79-.82)]. Black and Hispanic TM enrollees had lower odds of annual wellness visits as compared to their Black and Hispanic MA counterparts [OR=.83 (95% CI:78-.88) and OR=.88 (95% CI:.83-.94)], respectively. White, Black, and Hispanic MA enrollees had higher continuity of care than their counterparts in TM (27.4 vs. 24.9; 28.9 vs. 28.1; 32.1 vs. 30.1, respectively). MA enrollees with ADRD had higher care continuity than their TM counterparts. Compared to TM, MA increased the odds of annual wellness visits and reduced Hispanic-White disparity in annual wellness visits. Findings from this study can inform policies promoting preventive and equitable care for patients with ADRD.
THE DEVELOPMENT AND UTILIZATION OF IMAGE:NYC: THE INTERACTIVE MAP OF AGING
Authors: Kieffer Elana , Scher Clara 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Online interactive maps are an effective tool to visualize and understand socio-spatial locations of populations layered across the availability of relevant resources. These maps are integral in efforts to advance policies, programs and planning for specific sociodemographic groups. This presentation will describe the development and impact of IMAGE:NYC, The Interactive Map of Aging by The New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM) in partnership with the Center for Urban Research at The Graduate Center at the City University of New York. IMAGE:NYC displays the current and projected population of adults aged 65 and older in New York City with overlays of age-friendly resources, services, and amenities at the neighborhood level. The map draws on several data sources such as the 2016-2020 American Community Survey, local and federal voting patterns, and up-to-date information on health, recreational and housing services. The map has served as an invaluable tool for NYC policymakers, planners, researchers, health care and social service providers. In addition, the IMAGE:NYC model has also been replicated by Rutgers University to create similar maps for two counties in New Jersey. This session will demonstrate the utility of this mapping tool and concrete ways to develop a similar map in other localities.
AGING WELL: OLDER ADULTS AND DATA MAPPING
Authors: Silberman Susan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This presentation will feature how the National Council on Aging (NCOA) has advanced a program of work on data mapping and visualization. It will explain how this work is part of NCOA’s mission to improve the lives of millions of older adults, especially those who are struggling. Guided by the idea that how we age should not be determined by gender, color, sexuality, income, or zip code, the mapping tools display area-level data to highlight different aspects of the lives of low-income older adults. This presentation will describe two of NCOA’s mapping tools and how they can influence policy and advocacy efforts toward aging equity at the local, regional, state, and national levels. The first tool, released in 2021, displays, in part, area-level access to smartphones and high-speed internet among low-income older adults. This map makes visible the invisible by demonstrating low rates of access even in geo-spatial areas with overall high levels of connectivity. The second tool, to be released in the third quarter of 2023, presents sub-state level data to identify gaps between area-level eligibility for each of three essential benefit programs [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)], Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Medicare Savings Program (MSP)] and area-level enrollment rates. This map demonstrates how socio-spatial positions influence access to these national benefits, and how maps can be used to identify regions and communities to prioritize as part of strategic efforts to improve benefit access and promote aging equity.
A STRUCTURED APPROACH TO EVALUATING LIFE COURSE INFLUENCES ON DNA METHYLATION AGE ACCELERATION
Authors: Faul Jessica , Collins Stacey , Farina Mateo , Klopack Eric , Masood Zainab , Meier Helen , Mitchell Colter , Crimmins Eileen 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Lower socio-economic position (SEP) is associated with increased biological age acceleration measured using DNA methylation (DNAm). Prior studies using cohorts from the US and UK have shown a relationship between social mobility and DNAm age acceleration such that those who experienced upward mobility exhibited slower biological aging relative to continuously advantage groups while those with disadvantaged SEP across the life course experienced the most rapid DNAm age acceleration. However, using a social mobility model, it is not clear to what extent childhood may be a sensitive period for the impact of social disadvantage on DNA methylation or whether an accumulation of disadvantage hypothesis is consistent with the data. In this study, we apply a structured life-course modeling approach (SLCMA), a theory-driven analytical method that compares life course hypotheses of time-dependent exposure-outcome relationships, to determine whether early life is a sensitive period for DNAm modification using data from approximately 4,000 participants of the 2016 Health and Retirement Study (HRS) Venous Blood Study. We hypothesize that childhood is a sensitive period during which exposure to lower socio-economic position results in greater DNAm changes. We compare this to alternative hypotheses including the accumulation of disadvantage, in which the effect of low SEP increases with the duration of exposure, and the recency of disadvantage, in which the effect of low SEP is stronger for exposure in later life.
USING A COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD TO DEVELOP A TELEHEALTH CONCIERGE FOR RURAL OLDER CANCER SURVIVORS
Authors: Singh Revika , Rosen Francesca , Lewis-Thames Marquita 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Compared to pre-pandemic telehealth utilization, rural telehealth utilization has increased 1700% for some rural healthcare facilities. Yet, rural older adults remain slower to adopt telehealth, partly due to technical knowledge barriers. To identify practical solutions to overcome these navigation barriers for rural older adults, perspectives about telehealth implementation by older adults are necessary but remain a gap in research. To this end, this project adopts a user-centered design approach to develop a relevant, end-user-informed telehealth navigation tool for rural older cancer survivors with cancer-related distress through a community advisory board (CAB). We identified and selected CAB members from May-September 2022 from community-based organizations (CBOs) serving rural counties and zip codes in northern and central Illinois. CBOs were identified through internet search or snowball recruitment. Operating CBOs and interested community members with rural health interests received an email or telephone call about the CAB to review the roles and responsibilities of the CAB and confirm their interests. To date, over 30 CBOs in rural Illinois were identified, contacted, and mapped according to their rural health resources. We conducted two in-person and three virtual orientations. We identified one mental health professional, one older cancer survivor, one community member, three social workers/patient navigators to join the CAB. Preliminary barriers to telehealth utilization identified through ongoing CAB meetings include inadequate/inaccessible internet infrastructure, variable technical literacy, and concerns about trust-building and confidentiality. Ultimately, community advisory boards can be an effective approach in bridging community and academic partners to improve telehealth navigation for older rural adults.
CARE FOR OLDER ADULTS: WHAT SKILLS DO HEALTH CARE EMPLOYERS VALUE IN COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENTS?
Authors: Chidebe Runcie , Cummins Phyllis , Narine Donnette , Yamashita Takashi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Community colleges (CCs) play an important role in educating healthcare workers engaged in caring for aging populations with greater healthcare and long-term care needs. Healthcare employers and nursing home leaders are obligated to ensure that care provided by their employees meets quality standards, is patient-centered and free from psychological and physical harm. To increase the employability of CC students and understand the skills valued by employers in improving care for older adults, we explored the role literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving skills play in CC student success in the workplace. Using a qualitative descriptive design, we conducted semi-structured interviews with CC administrators (n=9), faculty (n=6), and employers (n=10) who hire healthcare workers (certified nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and registered nurses (RNs)) educated at CCs. Our findings show that communication skills are highly valued, especially the ability to communicate on the level of the nursing home resident or hospital patient, along with their family members. Numeracy skills, such as measuring medication dosages, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving skills, including conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, and compassionate care are valued by employers. Employers reported that LPNs and RNs have limited leadership and supervisory skills and there is a need to use innovative mechanisms (e.g., case studies, online courses) to improve those skills. Serving on CC advisory councils, clinical rotations and employers’ input into program development were reported as beneficial strategies. Findings from this project will inform both CC administrators and employers regarding skills that are valued in caring for older adults.
FOXO3 LONGEVITY GENOTYPE AND CEREBROVASCULAR DISEASE
Authors: Nakagawa Kazuma 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The influence of the FOXO3-longevity associated genotype on cerebrovascular disease (CVD) is little studied. There are reports of a protective effect against stroke mortality in some populations. But these findings have not been widely replicated, nor have potential mechanisms been identified. This presentation will present recent, novel insights on the relation of FOXO3 genotype to CVD. We studied a cohort of over 800 American men of Japanese ancestry from the Kuakini Honolulu Heart Program (KHHP) and Kuakini Honolulu-Asia Aging Study (KHAAS). This population-based dataset included brain autopsy data and age-adjusted prevalence of various types of CVD, including intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and cerebral microinfarcts (CMI). Logistic regression models, adjusted for age at death, cardiovascular risk factors, FOXO3 and APOE-ε4 genotypes, among other risk factors were utilized to determine the predictors of both outcomes. FOXO3 genotype did not directly modify risk for ICH or CMI. However, the FOXO3 longevity genotype had significant interaction (protective) effects against hypertension-associated ICH and CMI. These data suggest that the longevity-associated FOXO3 G-allele mitigates the impact of hypertension on the risk of ICH and CMI. Further research is needed in other populations.
THE ASSOCIATION OF ANXIETY WITH INDOOR AND OUTDOOR FALLS AMONG COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Chen Lingming , Procter-Gray Elizabeth , Churchill Linda , Zhang Meng , Le Qun , Berry Sarah , Hannan Marian , Li Wenjun 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
One in three older adults aged 65 years or greater fall at least once each year. The effects of psychosocial factors on falls remain to be fully understood. This study examined the association of anxiety with subsequent indoor and outdoor falls among older adults. The prospective cohort study enrolled 359 community-dwelling older adults aged 65-95 years old in central Massachusetts (2018-2020). Anxiety at baseline was measured by the Beck Anxiety Inventory. Falls were reported on monthly falls calendars, and when a fall was reported, the circumstances were collected via telephone interview. Negative binomial models were used to estimate the effect of anxiety on indoor and outdoor falls, separately. Models were adjusting for sociodemographic, physical health (BMI, bodily pain, comorbidities), depression, stress, functional status (Activities of Daily Living, chair standing test), physical activity, drinking, smoking, the fear of falling and ever fallen in the past year. Overall, the rates of indoor falls and outdoor falls were 41 per 100 person-years and 46 per 100 person-years, respectively. Anxiety was a statistically significant predictor of indoor falls; for every one point increased in Beck Anxiety Inventory, there was a 6% increase in the incident rate of indoor falls after adjusting for covariables listed above (IRR (95% CI): 1.06 (1.01-1.11)). Anxiety was not significantly associated with outdoor falls (IRR (95% CI): 0.98 (0.93-1.02)). In conclusion, anxiety was associated with higher rate of indoor falls but not outdoor falls. Future falls prevention should consider the differential impact of anxiety on indoor and outdoor falls.
CREATING INTERNET-BASED DISTANCE LEARNING IN GERONTOLOGY
Authors: Schneider Edward 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Dr. Schneider was Associate Director and then Deputy Director of the National Institute on Aging from 1980 through 1986. Dr. Schneider helped to create the Geriatric Leadership Academic Award. This award funded geriatric positions in many medical schools including Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Duke the University of California at Los Angeles, and the University of Tennessee. These awards led the creation of Geriatric Divisions at numerous American medical schools. After he became Dean of the Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, Dr. Edward Schneider with Maria Henke created the nation’s first Internet based Master’s Degree program in Gerontology. This program has graduated over 1000 students since then.
PREDICTING OLDER ADULTS’ CONTINUED COMPUTER USE AFTER INITIAL ADOPTION
Authors: Zhang Shenghao , Boot Walter 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Digital technologies have the potential to help older adults in various aspects of their lives, but older adults need to adopt and keep using the new technologies to reap the benefits. Previous research on digital divide mainly focuses on adoption and acceptance of new technologies, and little is known about what might influence actual use and disuse after this initial stage. The current study modeled changes in constructs related to computer use after initial computer adoption and examined whether these changes predict continued use. We used data from the computer arm (N = 150, MAge = 76.15) of a 12-month field trial examining the potential benefits of computer use in older adults. Individual differences identified in the technology acceptance literature (perceived usefulness, ease of use, computer interest, computer self-efficacy, computer anxiety, quality of life, social isolation, and social support) were measured before (baseline), during (month 6), and after the intervention (posttest). Univariate and bivariate latent change score models examined changes in each predictor and their potential causal relationship with use. Results demonstrated large inter-individual differences in the change patterns of individual difference factors examined. Change in perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and computer interest, computer self-efficacy, and computer anxiety were correlated with but not predictive of change in use. Our findings demonstrate the limitation of popular constructs in technology acceptance literature in predicting continued use after initial adoption and point out important gaps in knowledge to be targeted in future investigations.