bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SENIOR CITIZEN SCIENCE FOR AGE-FRIENDLY COMMUNITIES
Authors: Barrie Helen 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This presentation explores the use of citizen science with older participants; highlighting the potential for this underutilized methodology to create better, data driven, outcomes for age friendly cities and communities. Local neighborhoods have major impacts on older people’s mobility, autonomy and independence, and quality of life. The WHO has developed clear guidelines for achieving age-friendly cities or communities. Design and delivery of quality public spaces that meet the age friendly guidelines should promote health and well-being, social engagement with others, and engagement with the environment but little data is currently collected about how older people perceive or use public spaces. Daily experiences, often over long periods of time, mean older residents have acquired intimate first-hand knowledge of their neighborhoods, and thus, may be more qualified than experts to assess the age friendly qualities of neighborhood public spaces. A citizen science approach addresses this need for a deeper understanding of how public spaces are used and viewed by older residents. Through multiple citizen science projects over the past five years, we have co-designed and trialed a ‘senior’ citizen science approach to auditing and evaluating the age friendliness of public spaces. Our research shows that citizen science allows for richer, deeper qualitative, quantitative and longitudinal data that incorporates lived experience perspectives; produces better project designs and outcomes; develops a cohort of older people interested and engaged in research, and engages and trains people to apply a critical ‘age friendly’ perspective to their neighborhoods and communities enabling them to be future change agents.
ASSESSMENT OF AGE AND DEMENTIA FRIENDLINESS OF OTTAWA COMMUNITIES AS PERCEIVED BY PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA AND CARE PARTNERS
Authors: Campbell Kimberly , Robitaille Annie , Garcia Linda , Mulvey Michael , Barrie Helen , van Es Cat , Blanco Ana , Chiareli Alexandra 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In Canada there are over 500,000 persons living with dementia with prevalence estimates reaching as high as 912,000 by the year 2030. Given that age is the strongest known predictor of dementia and the fact that our population is ageing, there is an urgent need to create communities that promote older adults (including those living with dementia) reaching their maximum potential and feeling welcomed and included while ageing in place. The aim of our study was to determine the utility of a tool developed using a citizen science approach with persons living with dementia and their care partners to determine how they perceive the age- and dementia-friendliness of their neighbourhoods (where they live, work, conduct business and socialise). Ten participants were recruited for a pilot study which took place over a six-week period. The project designed and tested an audit tool, accessed via a smart phone/tablet, that allowed data to be collected quickly and in real time. This audit tool also allowed participants to upload quantitative and qualitative responses (including photos of locations being audited). Participants were trained to become citizen scientists in a series of workshops where they also collaborated with researchers to develop the audit tool. During the data collection period, citizen scientists audited locations/spaces that they visited during their day and submitted their responses using the app. Our findings present a case for increased inclusion of older adults, including those living with dementia, in research and intervention programs that target the promotion of age- and dementia-friendly communities.
USING VIRTUAL REALITY IN LONG-TERM CARE TO REDUCE SOCIAL ISOLATION
Authors: Hung Lillian , Wong Joey , Upreti Mona , Kan Winnie 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Virtual Reality (VR) has become increasingly accessible for older adults, providing opportunities for interventions that address loneliness and social isolation in long-term care. However, the effectiveness of VR programs can be influenced by various factors, such as the backgrounds, preferences, and capacities of the target population. This qualitative study investigates the acceptability and feasibility of a recreational VR program for social engagement in two Canadian long-term care homes since January 2023. The study involved 20 residents (with various levels of cognitive and physical impairments) who participated in weekly VR group sessions facilitated by staff. Ethnographic observation and video-recorded conversational interviews were conducted with residents during the VR sessions. We also conducted 10 focus groups with 20 staff members. Four patient partners were involved as co-researchers in the team. We performed the thematic analysis with patient partners. We identified three themes: (1) storytelling builds residents’ sense of self, (2) positive emotions persist even when the video is forgotten, and (3) VR empowers resident-resident and staff-resident connections. The findings demonstrate that using VR in long-term care settings is feasible and acceptable for older adults with different cognitive and physical impairments. VR programs have the potential to enhance social engagement and support residents’ personhood as a meaningful activity by improving inclusion, social engagement, comfort, and recognition of their identity. Future research could explore the long-term impact of VR experiences in addressing social isolation and loneliness among older adults in long-term care.
ALONE WITH MY THOUGHTS: USING NATURAL LANGUAGE PROCESSING TO DISTINGUISH LONELY FROM CALM ALONENESS
Authors: Lay Jennifer 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Time spent alone is common in daily life, and particularly in old age; it may at times be experienced as lonely, and at times as calming (positive solitude). The use of machine learning to interpret human language (e.g., natural language processing or NLP) has been growing in psychology, and NLP has been used to distinguish experiences of loneliness from positive solitude in social media data (e.g., tweets). How effective might such NLP techniques be for classifying naturally-occurring aloneness experiences in older adults’ everyday lives? The present study uses 1,546 thought samples collected from 133 adults aged 18-85 (M = 49.6 years; 73% female) at moments when they were alone over a 1-3 week period; participants reported their current thoughts (open-ended) and affective states (lonely, calm) at each assessment. Support vector machines were then used to classify moments of aloneness as being lonely (vs. not lonely) and calm (vs. not calm) based on the words participants used when describing their thoughts. When compared against participants’ actual reported affective states, these classifications achieved up to 67% accuracy for “lonely” and 79% accuracy for “calm”. “Lonely” thought reports included the word “work” more frequently, whereas “calm” thought reports more frequently included the words “reading” and “think/thought”, suggesting individuals engage in quiet or contemplative activities during positive solitude. Age differences therein are also examined. Findings suggest that NLP may be a useful tool for identifying older adults at risk of loneliness (and its negative health implications) by using brief reports of their everyday thoughts.
ACTIVE ENGAGEMENT AFTER RETIREMENT
Authors: Yeung Dannii , Chung Edwin 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Retirement has been shown to accelerate the declines in physical and mental health (Dave et al., 2008) and cognitive functioning (Celidoni et al., 2017; Xue et al., 2018) due to the identity disruption and removal of a cognitively simulating environment after leaving the workforce. This necessitates a need to systematically uncover factors that could potentially buffer the negative impacts brought by retirement. This symposium aims to identify the types of self-initiated activities that can maintain post-retirement well-being through research conducted in Hong Kong and Japan. Specifically, the first paper from Chung reveals that retirees engaging in postretirement work exhibit lower life satisfaction but higher cognitive functioning than those without work. Similarly, the second paper from Katagiri also shows that work has negative impacts on life satisfaction, but such effect is buffered by civic participation. The third paper from Ho suggests that the beneficial effects of ICT use on personal mastery is more prevalent in retirees than in non-retirees. The fourth paper from Lin discloses that participation in cognitively demanding volunteering activities is associated with better cognitive and psychological functioning. These four presentations unveil various types of post-retirement activities that are beneficial to retirees, including re-engagement in the workforce, the use of technology for leisure and financial purposes, and participation in cognitively stimulating volunteering. Given that most of the pre-retirees do not have much planning on social life arrangement, findings of this symposium provide practical implications to improve psychological adjustment to this critical life event.
THE EFFECTS OF POSTRETIREMENT WORK ON WELL-BEING OF RETIRED ADULTS
Authors: Chung Edwin , Lin Gloria , Yeung Dannii 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
There has been evidence that a growing number of retirees are reentering the labor force (DeSilver, 2016; Greenwald et al., 2017), possibly due to financial needs and seeking continuity in their preretirement job (Burkert & Hockfellner, 2017). However, the effects of post-retirement work on retirees’ well-being remain under-examined. This cross-sectional study thereby aims to examine the effects of post-retirement work in a sample of 768 younger and 530 older Hong Kong Chinese retirees (Mage = 65.1, SD = 2.72, range = 60 – 69, and Mage = 75.2, SD = 4.50, range = 70 – 95, respectively). Participation in post-retirement work, life satisfaction, cognitive functioning and hand-grip strength were measured. The results of two-way between-subject robust ANOVAs demonstrated that retirees engaging in post-retirement work exhibited lower life satisfaction (Q = 5.82, p = .02) but higher cognitive functioning (Q = 5.29, p = .02) than those without post-retirement work. Furthermore, as compared with younger retirees, older retirees engaging in post-retirement work exhibited higher cognitive functioning (Q = 3.66, p = .05) and stronger hand-grip strength (Q = 4.21, p = .04). These results remain significant even after controlling for sex, education, socioeconomic status, perceived health, and financial control. The findings of this study thus reveal the beneficial effects of post-retirement work on cognitive and physical health, but not on life satisfaction. The negative effect of post-retirement work on subjective well-being will be discussed in relation to the unsatisfactory working environment or employee benefits received by older workers in Hong Kong.
FOSTERING CONSISTENT AND ENGAGING CARE FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA IN LONG-TERM CARE
Authors: Morgan Jennifer , Kemp Candace , Hill Andrea , Bender Alexis 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Maintaining a stable and qualified direct care workforce in long-term care organizations has become increasingly difficult as shortages intensify, turnover increases, and the use of agency staff remains at high levels. Efforts to improve this situation need to include high quality training that is incorporated into onboarding, ongoing continuing education, and infused into the culture of the organization. Using data from our ongoing NIA-funded study, “Meaningful Engagement and Quality of Life among Assisted Living Residents with Dementia,” we describe the competencies used by direct care workers (DCWs) with exceptional capacity, or ability and resources to engage people with dementia, and the factors that promote or limit the development and use of these competencies. Focal residents with dementia (N=66) were followed at eight diverse assisted living communities for one year and 53 DCW were interviewed across three waves of data collection. Interview transcripts and fieldnotes from more than 2000 hours of observation were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Organized by four engagement approaches: knowing the person, connecting with and meeting people where they are, being in the moment, and viewing all encounters as opportunities, we identified competencies and the multiple intersecting factors which impact meaningful engagement and competency development including community staffing, consistent assignment, scheduling, DCW training, DCW tenure, and community resources. Implications for practice, which emphasize the elaboration of specific competencies, have the potential to inform the development of DCW training, the promotion of supportive work environments, and social policy that support person-centered dementia care.
EFFECTIVENESS OF THE “SELF-PROGRAM” IN DUTCH NURSING HOME CARE: RESULTS OF A MULTICENTER CLUSTER-RANDOMIZED TRIAL
Authors: Vluggen Stan , Metzelthin Silke , Zwakhalen Sandra , Bleijlevens Michel , de van de van Ginkel Janneke M de Man-van , De Waal Getty Huisman - 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
For frail older people it is evident to maintain their functional abilities and independence. Nursing staff are in a key position to encourage older people’s independence and stimulate their engagement in functional activity. However, nurses tend to take over tasks frequently thereby depriving older people’s remaining abilities. Clearly nurses need support to optimize their activity encouragement behavior. The Function-Focused Care based ‘SELF-program’ was developed based on lessons learned and implications from previous programs. SELF is an interactive, tailored, holistic and theory-grounded training program consisting of 7 seven sessions spread over a period of 3 months which aims to improve nurses’ activity encouragement behavior and in turn client’s self-reliance in daily activities. The program was subjected to a cluster-randomized trial in Dutch nursing home care which aimed to evaluate the program’s effectiveness. The MAINtAIN and GARS-5 questionnaires were applied to assess the effectiveness on nurses’ activity encouragement behavior and clients’ self-reliance. 28 wards from three care organizations across the Netherlands were recruited and randomized to the SELF-program or care as usual. 287 nurses and 241 geriatric clients participated. Measurements took place at baseline, directly after implementing the SELF-program (three months) and 9 months after baseline. Mixed linear regression demonstrated that nurses’ activity encouragement behavior significantly improved (p=.004; ES=.05). At client level, no effects were found (p=.09; ES=.13). However, a trend towards slower decline in self-reliance was observed for those clients allocated to the SELF-program condition. The SELF-program was effective in improving nurses’ behavior, however, effects were not translated to client populations.
BEHAVIORAL CHANGES OF NURSING STAFF AFTER A COACHING-BASED PSYCHOSOCIAL PROGRAM SUPPORTING SELF-DIRECTION IN PLWD
Authors: Graff Maud , Das Phebe , Douma Gebrich , Roets Lieve , Donkers Hanneke 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The psychosocial person-centred intervention “SOCAV-in-primary-care” (SOCAV-PC) offers training and reflective peer-coaching to nursing staff and training and person-centred care-planning to caregivers. SOCAV-PC aims to support persons with dementia (PwD) to maintain/improve their self-direction and daily functioning in meaningful activities with support of their caregivers. This study presents the experiences of the PwD, and changes in attitudes and behaviour of caregivers and nursing staff when following SOCAV. Spread over nine months, caregivers and nursing staff were trained and coached in the person-centred approach by a trained SOCAV-peer coach. Content analysis was performed using qualitative data derived from (1) intervention and coaching diaries from nursing staff, (2) coaching diaries of peer coaches, (3) focus groups among nursing staff, and (4) individual interviews with PwD and their caregivers. PwD felt heard and respected in making their own choices. Caregivers became more aware of the influence of their own behaviour on the mood of the PwD, and started trying to convert their controlling behaviour, meant to provide safety, into supporting wishes and needs of PwD. Among nursing staff, an ongoing process of positive changes in attitudes and behaviours towards person-centred care emerged: from acting on intuition and automatisms, towards learning to reflect on the behaviour of PwD and their own actions. Moreover, they gained a better understanding of the concept of self-direction, and discovered the power of conversation and observation through a more open attitude and behavioural change. Reflective coaching is an essential tool to enhance person-centred attitudes and behaviour among nursing staff.
HOW MUCH IS WORKPLACE FLEXIBILITY WORTH TO OLDER WORKERS? AN ANALYSIS OF MONETARY AND NONMONETARY TRADE-OFFS
Authors: Cahill Kevin , Giandrea Michael , Quinn Joseph , Platts Loretta 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
To what extent are older workers willing to forgo wages to obtain a flexible work arrangement when transitioning from career employment later in life? Older workers generally, and pension-eligible workers in particular face a plethora of trade-offs when it comes to continued work later in life. In this paper, we examine the components of older workers’ total compensation and explore how the mix of compensation changes as workers transition out of the labor force. Specifically, we focus on the relationship between monetary compensation (wages, fringe benefits) and workplace flexibility (phased retirement, hours flexibility), and explore the degree to which workers, by their choices, are willing to accept lower wages in return for increased flexibility on their job. To estimate this relationship, we use longitudinal, biennial data on thousands of older Americans representing four different cohorts available from the nationally-representative Health and Retirement Study (HRS). The HRS began in 1992 and, therefore, contains 30 years of follow-up data for the oldest cohort. For each respondent, we construct individual work histories and examine individuals’ evolving wage and hours arrangements from career employment to complete labor force withdrawal. Using multivariate techniques, we find that, all else equal, individuals experience a modest 5.7 percent decline in hourly compensation in return for a 20 percent reduction in hours worked. The findings from this paper can inform policymakers interested in continued work later in life about the degree to which older workers are willing to forgo the financial benefits of work in return for flexible schedules.
USING A “TEAMING” (ENHANCED SOCIAL SUPPORT) APPROACH IN THE CONTEXT OF THE RISE ELDER ABUSE AND SELF-NEGLECT INTERVENTION
Authors: MacNeil Andie , Connolly M T , Salvo Erin , Kimball Patricia , Rogers Geoff , Lewis Stuart , Burnes David 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Our understanding of what intervention strategies are effective in improving the well-being of older adults experiencing elder abuse and self-neglect (EASN) is severely limited. However, data consistently demonstrate that social support is a protective factor. As a component of a larger community-based EASN intervention, RISE, this study examined the use of a method called “teaming,” a wraparound approach to establish sustained formal and informal social supports surrounding victims and alleged harmers in EASN cases. Qualitative interviews and a focus group were conducted with the original pilot cohort of RISE “advocate” caseworkers (n = 4). A descriptive phenomenological approach involving two independent assessors was used to code transcripts into themes. Three domains were identified: (1) team and support forming process, which describes the development of a supportive network based on each client’s needs; (2) techniques, which refers to the specific strategies advocates utilized to promote collectivity and shared responsibility around the client; and (3) implementation challenges, which discusses the difficulties advocates encountered when using teaming with people experiencing EASN. The experiences of advocates suggest that teaming is a beneficial approach to support the individualized needs of each client, and to promote improved and sustainable case outcomes for clients. This study represents the first in-depth exploration of teaming in the context of EASN intervention.
“DO IT ANYWAY”—RESIDENT-DRIVEN ENGAGEMENT TO MAINTAIN MEANINGFUL LIFE IN CONTINUING-CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES
Authors: Li Xiaoli 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
As the aging population continues to grow, the demand for Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) is increasing. However, residents in CCRCs often face social isolation and loneliness, which can negatively impact their health and well-being. To combat these issues, activities and engagement have been proposed as potential solutions. However, the voices of those vulnerable to social isolation are seldom heard. This study aimed to explore the perspective of residents on how resident-driven engagement in CCRCs may maintain a meaningful life. A qualitative research approach was used, consisting of semi-structured interviews with 26 residents in CCRC. Thematic analysis identified five key themes related to resident-driven engagement: a sense of community, turning lemons into lemonade, doing it anyway, pink letters, and committees and clubs. The “do it anyway” attitude emerged as a prevalent theme, emphasizing the importance of pushing past challenges and limitations to pursue activities that bring joy and meaning to residents’ lives. The findings suggest that resident-driven engagement can lead to a sense of purpose, belonging, and fulfillment in CCRCs. The research provides insights into how communities can foster an environment that supports such engagement. By prioritizing resident-driven activities and empowering residents to take control of their lives, CCRCs can promote the well-being and quality of life of their residents.
ATTACKED BY BOTS AND HACKED BY BAD APPLES: LESSONS LEARNED NAVIGATING RESEARCH PARTICIPANT FRAUD
Authors: Frechman Erica , Buck Harleah , Maxwell Cathy 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In a time of emerging technologies for participant recruitment and data collection, researchers need proven and comprehensive strategies to protect research integrity. Incorporation of proactive, rather than reactive, methods to prevent fraudulence will mitigate additional stressors and headaches associated with fraud and fraud detection. This session presents a case which describes a researcher’s experience detecting, navigating, problem-solving, and then managing participant fraud that occurred twice in a multi-methods study. Participants were recruited from a senior center and two YMCA sites using social media platforms and email distribution lists which linked them with an online survey. After the initial study launch, a “bot attack” with “bot fast” deception within the study survey caused the study to shut down. The researcher worked with the study team, community sites, and IRB to detect potential causes of fraud and implement protective factors to ensure quality control and deter the bot system. Unfortunately, after the second study launch, the survey was once again successfully attacked. This time the researcher chose to work with the study team in order to create a step-wise rigorous approach to verifying accurate data and participants, while working to maintain trust of the community sites and real participants. Finally, to mitigate further fraud, the researcher pivoted to the use of ResearchMatch to ensure recruitment goals and trustworthy data. Within this presentation, the researcher will share lessons learned in survey fraud, proactive strategies to prevent fraudulence, communication methods interacting with IRB, study sites, and participants, and maneuvering perils involved in manuscript preparation.