bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
WHO, HOW, AND WHEN TO PREPARE FOR CARE? PREPAREDNESS AMONG CAREGIVERS OF PERSONS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Mroz Emily , Crawford Nicole , Monin Joan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Our health systems rely on family caregivers to provide critical support for over six million persons living with dementia (PLWD) in the US. Caregivers, however, often report low preparedness for care roles, promoting negative outcomes for themselves and their care recipients. As the number of PLWD grows, preparing close others to perform and thrive in caregiving roles is a public health priority. This symposium provides insights on who, how, and when to prepare for the care of a PLWD. First, Falzarano et al. will discuss the individual, psychosocial, and contextual factors influencing caregivers’ use of supportive services, and implications for self-efficacy and preparedness. Mroz et. al. will introduce the concept of ‘experienced’ caregivers of PLWD, those who have been caregivers previously, and describe ways to address persisting psychological tolls and low confidence from prior care roles to prepare these caregivers for current care roles. Fox et al. will describe interaction between preparedness and family dynamics, showcasing differences in these relations across dementia- and non-dementia care roles. Vu et al. will describe how caregiver engagement in a health priorities identification process can better prepare caregivers to make values-based medical decisions on behalf of the PLWD. Crawford et al. will describe the influence of burden on caregivers’ emergency preparedness. Takeaways from these papers and Joan Monin’s discussion collectively respond to priorities outlined by the NIA IMPACT Collaboratory’s Lived Experience Panel, offering direction on best practices and needed initiatives to bolster preparedness in this caregiver population.
EMPLOYMENT AND FINANCIAL STATUS BEFORE AND AFTER THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AMONG OLDER PEOPLE IN ENGLAND
Authors: Zhu Jingmin 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected society and the economy worldwide. By the end of 2021, most legal COVID-19 restrictions were lifted in England, pushing society into a post-pandemic phase. However, it remains unclear whether the post-pandemic world has convalesced, particularly with regard to socioeconomic circumstances among older people. According to the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA), the percentage of employment among older people aged 50 years and above living in England decreased dramatically from 24.9% in 2018/9 to 17.6% in June/July 2020 and 19.8% in November/December 2020. Preliminary results from data collected between October 2021 and November 2022 suggest that post-pandemic the percentage of older people in paid work bounced back to pre-pandemic levels. Nevertheless, the post-pandemic financial status was worse than that before the pandemic. Whereas approximately 22% of respondents were worried about the future financial situation during the pandemic, this prevalence increased to nearly 30% in 2021/2. Moreover, there is an indication that some groups (including those with low education; those in routine and manual occupations; and those living alone) fared worse in the post-pandemic times. Overall, despite some evidence suggesting that the employment of English older people has bounced back to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels, their financial situation seems to have deteriorated, most likely reflecting also the current rising cost of living and financial crisis in the UK.
PEER-BASED CHECK-IN SUPPORT AND PERSONAL AGENCY IN TANGIBLE INTERFACE DESIGN FOR REDUCING ISOLATION IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Bhowmick Pallabi , Huber Lesa 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
About one in four older adults in the US are socially isolated, an issue worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. The aims of a 2-week diary study and field deployment of a peer-based tangible check-in system with 16 participants aged 65 to 87 were to understand how older adults check-in with others, who they check-in with, what difficulties they face, and how technology can help them stay connected. Findings show that perceived check-in behavior varies from actual check-in behavior. Although participants listed family as their strongest relationships forming the closest social circle, 75% of the participants had up to third-quarters of their communication with friends as compared to all other relationships. Secondly, passive check-in and monitoring from family members make older adults non-participatory recipients of care and takes away human agency. The check-in system allowed participants to actively check-in on their peers. Participants found the technology non-stigmatizing and bonded with each other quickly. Finally, older adults prefer tangible interfaces, such as buttons and physical controls over digital interfaces, because they do not require fine motor skills or visual acuity. Tangible systems can provide familiar, intuitive, and accessible systems by leveraging everyday physical objects as user interfaces. Study participants found the tangible check-in system easy and enjoyable to use. Such tangible peer-based systems improve social connectedness, address ageism by restoring agency, meet accessibility and aesthetic needs, thereby encouraging technology adoption. They also empower older adults to maintain their independence, instill in them a strong sense of community, and improve quality of life.
THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN CARE TEAMS AND FAMILY CAREGIVERS IN CONGREGATE CARE
Authors: Hoben Matthias , Dymchuk Emily , Chamberlain Stephanie , Beeber Anna 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Family/friend caregivers are essential in the quality of care and life of residents living in congregate care (nursing homes and assisted living). However, the COVID-19 pandemic and related public health measures substantially changed the way family/friend caregivers could be involved in resident care. It also changed the dynamic of the relationships between care teams and family/friend caregivers. While research has explored these impacts, much of the research has focused on the family/friend caregiver perspective. Our objective was to explore the impact of COVID-19 and related public health measures on these relationships from the perspective of care teams. Using videoconferencing, we conducted 9 focus groups and 2 semi-structured interviews (total of 37 participants) with managers/administrators of 6 congregate care settings and their teams (care aides, nurses, recreation and rehabilitation staff, educators). The themes we identified reflect (1) pressures care teams experienced from family/friend caregivers, (2) conflicts between care teams and family/friend caregivers, (3) support care teams received from family/friend caregivers, and (4) how care teams supported family/friend caregivers. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted long-standing relationships between care teams and family/friend caregivers, negatively impacting care teams, family/friend caregivers, and residents. However, care teams also reported encouraging examples of successful collaboration and support from family/friend caregivers. Involving family-friend caregivers in decision making was particularly critical. Learning from these promising practices will be critical to improving preparedness for future public health crises, as well as quality of resident care and life in general.
BRAIN HEALTH TOGETHER: DEVELOPING AND PILOT-TESTING AN ONLINE GROUP PROGRAM TO REDUCE DEMENTIA RISK
Authors: Barnes Deborah , Hoffmann Coles , Chesney Margaret , Brodaty Henry , Chao Linda , Tang Paul , Sudore Rebecca , Turo Patricia 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Growing evidence suggests that multi-domain interventions can slow cognitive decline and reduce dementia risk in older adults. However, most programs have been in-person and/or had relatively long intervention periods (1 to 2-years). The primary goal of this study was to develop and pilot-test Brain Health Together, a 12-week, virtual-group program to reduce dementia risk through targeting modifiable risk factors in older adults who report cognitive decline. Initial content was developed with input from an external Science Advisory Board. 7 individuals who had been participating in online group movement classes for the previous 2 years were invited to pilot-test and provide feedback on Brain Health Together content and structure. In addition to the movement classes, the pilot program included weekly 1-hour group brain health education classes and 30-minute individual brain health coaching sessions for 12 weeks. The first 4 education classes included general content. Based on participant feedback, subsequent classes provided in-depth content on a single brain health risk factor each week, including expert videos and facilitated discussion. Before their first coaching session, participants completed a brief survey about their current lifestyle behaviors and medical conditions related to brain health. This was used to generate an individualized brain health report that summarized areas with low, moderate or high opportunity for change. Coaching sessions focused on setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timely) goals to address modifiable risk factors. After 12 weeks, participants reported more exercise, less loneliness, and longer sleep duration. We are currently enrolling for a larger clinical trial.
A WHOLE-HEALTH MODEL OF CARE TO PROMOTE SOCIAL AND RACIAL JUSTICE
Authors: Faul Anna , Cotton Sam , Yankeelov Pamela , Gordon Barbara 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Whole health models of care aim to coordinate care across sectors, address the needs of older adults with multiple chronic conditions, and promote health equity. The FlourishCare team will present data on the effectiveness of a whole health model, the FlourishCare Model (FCM), serving 159 older adults with multiple chronic conditions, using a two-level longitudinal design and hierarchical linear modeling to test a multilevel growth model. The results showed significant growth in total FlourishCare Index (FCI) scores over time for individual health behaviors, healthcare access, and social determinants. Biological determinants showed significant growth only for rural patients. The FCM was able to support patients with lower education attainment to improve at a higher rate than those with higher education attainment, both for the total score on the FCI and for healthcare access. The FCM was also able to support rural patients at a higher rate than urban patients to gain access to healthcare, and it supported Hispanic patients the most in improving their social determinants of health. The study demonstrates the importance of a whole health approach to care, which focuses on what matters most to patients, particularly older adults who place importance on quality-of-life outcomes. The study also shows how a whole health approach can address health equity by accelerating the flourishing of rural, Hispanic patients with lower educational attainment, promoting social and racial justice.
PET OWNERSHIP AND LONGITUDINAL CHANGE IN PSYCHOLOGICAL ADAPTATION – EVIDENCE FROM THE BLSA
Authors: Friedmann Erika , Gee Nancy , Simonsick Eleanor , Resnick Barbara , Gurlu Merve , Adesanya Ikmat , Shim Soyeon 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Successful aging depends in part on maintaining psychological adaptation. Research examining the relationship of pet ownership (PO) or human-animal interaction (HAI) to human health supports contributions to psychological status, mostly in populations with diseases or disabilities. We examine the contributions of PO to maintaining psychological adaptation among generally healthy community-dwelling older participants in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA). Participants (N=637, age M=68.3, SD=9.6 years, pet owners N=149) completed assessments of anxiety (Perceived Stress Scale-10), depression (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression), happiness (1-10 rating) and psychological wellbeing (SF-12 Mental Component Score) every 1-4 years and a 10-year PO history. Linear mixed models with random intercepts were used to examine changes in psychological adaptation outcomes over up to 13 years (M=7.5, SD=3.6) according to time-varying PO. Overall anxiety decreased (b=-0.0360,se=0.0104,p=0.001) and depression increased (b=.099141, se=0.015837, p&lt; 0.001) with aging. Psychological wellbeing (b=0.00055, se=0.00119, p=0.644) and happiness (b=-.00405,se=0.0206,p=0.844) did not change. PO moderated changes in anxiety (b=0.058452,se=0.024376,p=0.017), happiness (b=-0.101373,se=0.04779,p=0.034), and psychological wellbeing (b=-0.005541,se=0.002764,p=0.045), but not depression (b=-0.01134, se=.037065,p=0.769). Anxiety and happiness improved in pet owners and deteriorated in non-owners. Psychological wellbeing deteriorated faster for pet owners than non-owners. This study provides important longitudinal evidence that PO may promote some aspects of psychological adaptation among generally healthy community-dwelling older adults by moderating age-related declines in psychological adaptation later in life. It also highlights differences in psychological responses to animal assisted interventions in residents of care facilities from changes during the life-courses of generally healthy community-residing older adults.
NEIGHBORHOOD SEGREGATION AND CHARACTERISTICS OF OLDER CHINESE IMMIGRANTS LIVING IN GREATER CHICAGO
Authors: Jiang Yanping , Tang Fengyan , Mendhe Dinesh 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Neighborhoods profoundly influence health of older adults, with those living in more affluent neighborhoods tending to be happier and healthier. However, which neighborhoods to live, is shaped by pull and push factors, particularly among racial/ethnic minorities that disproportionally live in segregated neighborhoods characterized by social and economic deprivation. Residential segregation, however, is not well-examined among older Asian Americans. This study aimed to close this gap by investigating neighborhood, sociodemographic, and health behavior characteristics among older Chinese immigrants living in segregated neighborhoods. Data were drawn from 3,097 participants from Population Study of Chinese Elderly (PINE). Residential segregation was operationalized using Index of Concentrations at the Extremes (ICE), and the tertiles of ICE scores were used to categorize neighborhoods into four groups, ranging from neighborhoods extremely segregated toward Chinese speakers to segregated toward English-only speakers. Results showed that, compared to neighborhoods segregated toward English-only speakers, neighborhoods extremely segregated toward Chinese speakers had lower neighborhood socioeconomic status and cohesion but higher neighborhood disorder. Also, participants in neighborhoods segregated toward Chinese speakers were more likely to be unmarried but less likely to live alone, receive less education, and live in the U.S. longer. These participants also reported lower acculturation and racial discrimination, were more likely to smoke, and had lower adoption of preventive health practices than those living in neighborhoods segregated with English-only speakers. Findings highlight challenges and opportunities among older Chinese immigrants living in segregated neighborhoods and provide insights into existing mixed findings on health impacts of residential segregation among this understudied population.
NEIGHBORHOOD AND DEPRESSION AMONG US CHINESE OLDER IMMIGRANTS: THE MEDIATION EFFECTS OF COPING
Authors: Wang Yi , Guo Man , Liu Jinyu , Lou Yifan , Carter Kara 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Studies have shown that neighborhood environment shapes older Americans’ aging experience and health. However, it remains largely unknown whether and how neighborhood environment influences the well-being of older Asian Immigrants. Guided by the neighborhood stress process model, this study aims to investigate (a) the associations between neighborhood environmental stressors and depression among Chinese older immigrants and (b) the potential mediation effects of intrapersonal (sense of mastery and sense of hopefulness) and interpersonal coping (social engagement) resources in such associations. This study analyzed data collected from 2,801 Chinese older immigrants in the greater Chicago area. Structural equation modeling with bootstrap resampling was used to fit path models on neighborhood environmental stressor, intra- and interpersonal coping resources, and depression. Findings showed that neighborhood social disintegration and physical disorder were associated with more depressive symptoms directly and indirectly via lower intra- and interpersonal coping resources. Specifically, older immigrants living in neighborhoods with greater social disintegration reported lower sense of mastery and social engagement, which in turn were associated with more depressive symptoms (partial mediation). Older immigrants living in neighborhoods with greater physical disorder reported lower sense of hopefulness and mastery, which subsequently were associated with more depressive symptoms (full mediation). The findings showed that neighborhood environmental stressors are risk factors for mental health of Chinese older immigrants, and coping resources may serve as pathways of the associations. The findings have implications for practice as they are helpful to inform the development of tailored psychosocial interventions to enhance coping resources in older immigrants.
MARITAL STATUS TRANSITIONS AND INFLAMMATION DURING MID AND LATER LIFE: EVIDENCE FROM THE HEALTH AND RETIREMENT STUDY
Authors: Stokes Jeffrey E , Farmer Heather , Patterson Sarah 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Research has increasingly utilized inflammatory markers to understand how social factors influence health, yet little research to date has examined marital status, or–crucially–later-life changes to marital status in relation to inflammation. Further, few studies have examined variation in such associations by gender, race/ethnicity, or age. We used data from the 2016 Health and Retirement Study (HRS) Venous Blood Study (n=9,933), which captures five inflammatory markers: C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Interleukin IL-10 (IL-10), Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF). Information concerning marital status came from the 2014 and 2016 waves of HRS, to ascertain stability of and changes to marital status over 2 years. Interactions were examined between marital status/transition groups and participants’ gender, age, and race/ethnicity. Overall, results were consistent across outcomes. Across 4 of 5 outcomes, the Newly Widowed and Never Married exhibited higher inflammation than the Continuously Married. Further, relationships between Continuously Widowed status and higher CRP and IL-6, and between Newly Widowed status and higher IL-1Ra, were present only for men. The association of Continuously Widowed status with higher CRP and IL-6 weakened with age, as did the effect of Newly Married status on IL-6. No clear patterns were identified concerning interactions with race/ethnicity. Findings indicate that marital transitions may have potential to harm physiological health. Negative consequences of widowhood for inflammation were also greater for men than for women, yet these harms may be attenuated at older ages when widowhood is an “on-time” rather than an “off-time” event.
IS LONELINESS CONTAGIOUS? AN ECOLOGICAL MOMENTARY ASSESSMENT WITHIN ROMANTIC COUPLES
Authors: Luchetti Martina , Rupprecht Fiona , Nikitin Jana , Gamaldo Alyssa , Mogle Jacqueline , Ledermann Thomas , Sliwinski Martin , Sutin Angelina 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Although marriage has been found to be protective against feeling lonely, loneliness might also be ‘contagious’ and spread from one individual to another, particularly within close relationships. Feelings of loneliness tend to correlate within spouses and are associated with relationship strain and lower perceived support from the partner. Despite interest in loneliness among married couples, little is known about how loneliness might affect romantic partners, especially in everyday life. In this study, we examined momentary states of loneliness within middle-aged and older couples, and how these states affect each partner over the course of days. Data were from 137 opposite-sex couples (274 participants), between 40 and 70 years old, who completed phone-based assessments of loneliness on a scale from 0to 100, three times a day, for eight consecutive days. Data were modeled using a combination of dynamic structural equation modeling and actor partner interdependence modeling. For both couple members, auto-regressive associations indicated that loneliness states carried over from moment to moment for both partners. In addition, loneliness of the female partner at time t was associated with loneliness of the male partner at the previous assessment (time t - 1), but not vice versa. Partner effects were in part moderated by relationship quality (strain, perceived support). The results provide insight into how loneliness functions within couples in everyday life contexts and suggest that loneliness might have dyadic implications for the health and well-being of aging couples.
COMPARATIVE TRANSCRIPTOMIC OF LONGEVITY
Authors: Gorbunova Vera 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Transcriptome analysis provides a nuanced view into the changes that occur in cells and tissues. Transcriptome changes rapidly and reproducibly in response to physiological influences and environmental insults. Recent years have seen an exponential increase in transcriptome data at bulk, single cell and spatial resolution that allows insights into the mechanisms and regulatory pathways of aging and longevity. In this session Drs. Gorbunova (University of Rochester) and Gladyshev (Harvard Medical School) will discuss comparative transcriptomics of longevity across species with diverse lifespans that revealed unique signatures of longevity and the integration of transcriptome and proteome data. Dr. Gladyshev will discuss development of transcriptomic clocks of measuring biological aging. Dr. Artyomov will discuss single-cell resolution approaches to reveal aspects of immune aging in humans, and Dr. Palovics will present the use of transcriptomics to understand rejuvenating effects of heterochronic parabiosis.
LIVING WELL? A MATCHED ANALYSIS OF MINORITY ETHNIC AND WHITE BRITISH PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA AND THEIR CARERS
Authors: Victor Christina , Quinn Catherine , Matthews Fiona , Pentecost Claire , Gamble Laura 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The increasing heterogeneity of the older population is reflected in the UK in an increasing number of those with dementia and carers drawn from minority ethnic groups. Data from the IDEAL dementia study is used to compare ‘living well’ among people with dementia and carers from ethnic minority groups with matched white British peers. We used a cross-sectional case-control design. Outcomes for both groups were quality of life, life satisfaction, wellbeing, loneliness and social isolation and, for carers, measures of stress, relationship quality, role captivity and caring competence. Our sample consisted of 20 people with dementia and 15 carers who self-identified as being of Indian, Pakistan, Bangladeshi, Black African, Black Caribbean or mixed ethnicity who were matched with 60 white British participants with dementia and 45 white British carers. People with dementia from minority ethnic groups had poorer quality of life (-4.74, 95% CI: -7.98 to -1.50) and higher loneliness (1.72, 95% CI: 0.78 to 2.66) scores whilst minority ethnic carers had higher stress (8.17, 95% CI: 1.72 to 14.63) and role captivity (2.00, 95% CI: 0.43 to 3.57) and lower relationship quality (-9.86, 95% CI: -14.24 to -5.48) than their white British peers. People with dementia from minority ethnic groups experience lower quality of life and caregivers higher stress and role captivity and lower relationship quality. Confirmatory research with larger samples is required to facilitate analysis of the experiences of specific minority ethnic groups and examine the factors contributing to these disadvantages.