bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
DO PUBLIC HOME CARE CLIENTS “LOSE OUT ON SERVICES” BECAUSE THEY HAVE A FAMILY CAREGIVER?
Authors: Keefe Janice , Mitchell Lori , Poss Jeff , Mah Jasmine 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The public home care (PHC) system in Canada is heavily reliant on family caregivers to enable clients to stay in the community. When caregivers are present, there are concerns formal home care aide (HCA) services are less available. Using data from the Resident Assessment Instrument for Home Care (RAI-HC), we examined caregiver and client characteristics in relation to HCA service amounts. Our cohorts were individuals aged 60+ receiving an initial RAI-HC assessment in 2011-2013, and one subsequent assessment in two provincial jurisdictions: the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (n=5,251) and Nova Scotia Health (n=5291). We measured weekly HCA hours and constructed a predictive model for hours of care controlling for client need. To identify the most underserved client population, we calculated the ratio between predicted to actual received hours of care ascertaining the lowest client quintile. In both jurisdictions, the odds of being underserviced were higher when the client co-resided or had a spouse. Clients living alone at initial intake were least likely to be underserved. Caregiver characteristics increasing the risk of being underserved in Winnipeg included providing IADLs/ADLs support, caring more than 14 hours per week and being unable to continue. Rurality increased risk of underservice in Nova Scotia. These findings contribute to the debate: is PHC a supplement or substitution for family care? PHC as a supplement to family care was more pronounced in Winnipeg and in rural Nova Scotia. Implications for greater equity across regions is explored using an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion lens.
PATTERNS OF MARIJUANA USE IN THE US OLDER ADULT POPULATION
Authors: Ailshire Jennifer 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Marijuana use is increasing in the U.S. population, including among adults 50 and older, but research on population characteristics of marijuana use in middle aged and older adults is limited. We use data from the 2018-2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) surveys, which are representative of U.S. state populations, to estimate prevalence and frequency of marijuana use by age. The data are from 39 states that included the module on marijuana use in the past 30 days (n=466,469). We also examine age patterns in use by legalization status and reasons for use of marijuana. Reported marijuana use is much lower among those ages 50 and older (6.49%) than 18-49 (16.3%). Multivariable regression analyses show that marijuana use declines with age (p&lt;.001) and is lower among women (p&lt;.001). Marijuana use among older adults is slightly lower in states where it is illegal compared to states that have legalized (4.6% vs. 7.1%, p&lt;.001). Use of marijuana for medical reasons increases with age; nearly two-thirds of adults 80+ who use marijuana report doing so for medical reasons. Adults 80+ also report the highest frequency of use, likely reflecting greater medical need. The most common conditions reported among adults 50+ who use marijuana for medical reasons are arthritis (61%), depression (36%), asthma (20%), and COPD (18%). Our prevalence estimates of use at older ages match those from other national surveys, but our findings suggest older adults are using marijuana largely for medical reasons.
CANNABIS USE TRENDS AND INTENTIONS AMONG OLDER PEOPLE WHO INJECT DRUGS IN LOS ANGELES, CA, AND DENVER, CO, 2021–2022
Authors: Bluthenthal Ricky , Cohen Jonathan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
One potential benefit of drug legalization is that it might lead to substitution of legal products for criminalized substances. This is particularly true in the case of legal cannabis use by the subpopulation of people who inject drugs (PWID) and thus face substantial risk of physical harm, infectious diseases transmission, and even death especially in criminalized environments. Should substitution occur among older PWID, where other comorbid conditions are more common, the benefits could be even greater. To describe substance use patterns among older people who inject drugs and to examine if older PWID are more likely to use cannabis as a substitute for other substances. We analyze data from quantitative, health surveys collected from 429 community-recruited PWID during 2021/22. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the drug use patterns among older (50 years of age or more) PWID and multivariate regression to examine if older participants were more likely to substitute cannabis for any other substance.
Results: Among the 429 participants, 110 (or 26%) were 50 years of age or older. Older participants reported being significantly less likely than younger participants to use of methamphetamine, fentanyl and cannabis. In terms of cannabis substitution, older participants were significantly more likely to report using cannabis to reduce alcohol use. Risk and benefits of cannabis use vary among subpopulations. Older PWID might benefit from improved access to cannabis when trying to reduce alcohol use. Given the negative consequences of alcohol use, cannabis substitution might have additional benefits for this subpopulation.
CARE PARTNERS OF PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA USE OF SHARED ACCESS TO THE PATIENT PORTAL
Authors: Gleason Kelly 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The patient portal plays a significant and growing role in health system navigation, and most patient portals offer shared access for care partners. Care partners are at the forefront of dementia care, yet little is known about their use of the portal through shared access. We conducted an observational cohort study of patient portal utilization for a 5-year period (10/3/2017-10/2/2022) at an academic health system. The cohort consisted of 49,382 patients ages 65+ with 2+ visits in 24 months. More than half (57.34%) of the cohort was female and white (67.19%) and the average age was 76.56 (SD 8.60). We operationalized diagnosed dementia from ICD10 codes and problem lists. Shared access use was defined as activity happening through “proxy” credentials. We operationalized the patient portal activity metric as the ratio of portal sessions in relation to number of clinical encounters. Older adults with (versus without) diagnosed dementia were similarly likely to be registered for the patient portal (71.20% versus 71.51%, p=0.16) but more likely to have a shared access user (10.41% vs. 3.31%; p&lt;0.001). Among patients with dementia, those who had a shared access user, compared to those who did not, had 341.32 versus 164.33 patient portal sessions, sent 47.56 versus 27.42 messages, and had a 19.22 versus 11.22 patient portal activity metric over the 5-year period (p&lt;0.001 all contrasts). Policy initiatives and organizational efforts that encourage use of shared access may benefit care quality of persons with dementia and their care partners.
MUSCLE UP: WHAT AGING LOOKS LIKE FROM THE INSIDE OUT
Authors: Simonsick Eleanor , Ferrucci Luigi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The Longitudinal Studies Section of the Translational Gerontology Branch of the National Institute on Aging Intramural Research Program has the mission and opportunity to examine aging physiology from the cellular to the full body functional level in model systems and human populations. This symposium presents ongoing research that targets pathologic and normative change in muscle with aging and the significance of these changes for understanding the aging process. Data come from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA) and the Genetic and Epigenetic Signatures of Translational Aging Laboratory Testing (GESTALT) study. In nearly 500 BLSA participants aged 50+, Zenobia Moore evaluates the association between multiple epigenetic age metrics and change over 6 years in mid-femur areas of muscle and subcutaneous and intramuscular fat derived from computed tomography. Qu (Teresa) Tian investigates the relationship between skeletal muscle mitochondrial function and risk of MCI or dementia over 3.3 years in 460 initially cognitively normal BLSA participants and PET and blood biomarkers of AD in available subsamples. In 82 men and women from GESTALT, Stefano Donega examines relationships between physical activity, peak oxygen consumption and muscle oxidative capacity using p31 MR spectroscopy and gene expression, transcript usage and splicing events derived from vastus lateralis biopsies. Using volumetric Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy, Lisa Hartnell shares 3D images of muscle samples at the level of the mitochondrial reticulum and sarcomere from young and old healthy and frail GESTALT participants. Together, these findings highlight the value of muscle as a window on aging.
STRATEGIES FOR ENGAGING LOW-INCOME SENIOR HOUSING RESIDENTS IN INTERDISCIPLINARY WELLNESS CLINICS
Authors: Holmes Sarah , Klinedinst Jennifer , Brandt Nicole , Resnick Barbara 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Engaging residents in low-income senior housing communities in health and wellness services can be challenging. Despite the significant healthcare needs of residents in senior housing communities, numerous barriers to engaging residents exist including the mistrust of academic or healthcare institutions, stigma about health conditions and treatment, and lack of awareness about services available. To successfully implement Interdisciplinary Wellness Clinics, a participatory approach was used through engagement of stakeholders in the housing communities. The Interdisciplinary Wellness Clinic team worked closely with the Senior Program Manager and the community and regional property managers to establish a plan for implementation. The needs of the communities, day and timing of the clinics that would fit with their schedules, and a plan for ways to invite and engage the residents was developed. Flyers were made by the interdisciplinary team for visits at each community and sign-up sheets for the services provided on any given month. The flyers were posted on bulletin boards within the communities or in a central location for residents to access them by the community property managers. Intermittently, associated with holidays for example, we also held raffles for gifts for anyone who attended the clinic. Regular meetings were held with the property managers at each of the senior housing communities to solicit their input and brainstorm strategies for continued engagement of residents and identify new approaches to increase engagement in wellness clinic services.
OPTIMIZING GSA STUDENT CHAPTER NETWORKING ACROSS CAMPUS AND THE WORLD
Authors: Bouchard Lauren 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The Portland State University (PSU) Gerontological Society of America Student Chapter was formed as a new student organization in 2022. Due to student interest and enthusiasm, this chapter was eager to invest in connections within PSU departments (e.g., public health, social work, and urban affairs) across Portland area campuses (e.g., Oregon Health and Science University) and between other student chapters internationally. Initially, this chapter focused on relationships between undergraduate and graduate students invested in aging research and education on PSU’s campus. Once a core group was formed, the chapter recruited members across campus, created an Aging 101 Service event to reach all students, and developed connections with professionals in the regional area. With guidance from the faculty advisor, this chapter reached out to the chapter at the University of Porto, the University of Aveiro in Porto, Portugal, to create a dual chapter networking event with colleagues in Portugal. This presentation will explain the chapter networking and provide suggestions to create regional, national, and international connections.
CHILDHOOD INTERPERSONAL TRAUMA AND DEPRESSION OF CHINESE IN MID LATER LIFE: MEDIATION EFFECT OF SOCIAL INTEGRATION
Authors: Zhou Jiajia , Zhou Shuai 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Objectives
This study investigates the long-term associations between five types of childhood interpersonal trauma (i.e., physical neglect, emotional neglect, physical abuse, being bullied, exposure to interparental violence) and depression in mid-later life. The mediation roles of social integration in the family (i.e., satisfaction with marriage and children) and broader social contexts (i.e., social participation and perceived social support) are examined in the associations.

Methods
This study used two waves (2014 and 2015) of data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. The analytical sample included 12,486 participants aged 45 years and older.

Results
People who was bullied, physically abused, and witnessed interparental violence during childhood are more likely to develop depression in mid-later years, controlling for socio-demographic characteristics, childhood family socio-economic status, and childhood parental mental health. However, childhood physical neglect and emotional neglect are not directly related to depression in mid- and late-adulthood. The associations between childhood interpersonal trauma and depression were mediated by the satisfaction with marriage, satisfaction with children, and perceived social support, but not social engagement.

Discussion
This study calls for attention on the long-term consequences of multiple types of childhood interpersonal trauma on mental health among middle-aged and older adults. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms of social integration in bridging early-life interpersonal trauma and depression in mid-later life.
DISPROPORTIONATE INCARCERATION AFTER THE 1994 CRIME BILL AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN OLDER ADULTS RACIALIZED AS WHITE
Authors: Adkins-Jackson Paris , Gobaud Ariana , Kim Boeun , Ford Tiffany , Hill-Jarrett Tanisha , Tejera César Higgins , Barnes Lisa , Manly Jennifer 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Structural racism may drive the constellation of determinants that increase racialized disparities in cognitive function. The 1994 Crime Bill is a decades-old federal policy that established an infrastructure in which local governments are incentivized to fund prisons, increase average prison time, and implement adverse policing quotas. Foundational research suggests structural racism via high-contact policing and incarceration for persons racialized as Black, is associated with anxiety and depressed mood among, influencing cognitive function. Minimal research explores whether the intended beneficiaries of structural racism, persons racialized as White, have truly benefitted. We used US county-level incarceration data to compute the Black-White difference in jail and prison population rates between 1995-2005. These data were averaged by decade and linked by county to individual-level cognitive data for participants racialized as White (&gt;50 years) in the Health and Retirement Study (N=13,016). Cognitive performance and cognitive change over time was assessed using a 27-item global cognitive score from the modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status for biannual years between 2006-20. A mixed effects model estimated the association of a one-unit change in county-level incarceration on cognitive performance. Greater 10-year Black-White disparities in the jail population were associated with greater cognitive performance among participants racialized as White one year later (b=0.13, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.25). Findings suggest structural racism via disproportionate high-contact policing and incarceration of persons racialized as Black is linked to better cognitive function for older adults racialized as White.
“YOU BECOME LESS OF A PERSON”: BEING UNNEEDED AND THE POLITICAL ECONOMY OF LONELINESS IN LATER LIFE
Authors: Maulod Ad , Ravindran Malcolm , Chan Angelique 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Loneliness is a significant public health concern among older persons and refers to the discrepancy between actual and desired forms of social connection. Loneliness is often characterized in terms of (i) lacking companionship, (ii) being left out and (iii) feeling isolated. In comparison, older persons’ experience of being unneeded is relatively underexamined as a construct of loneliness. Being unneeded connects to constrains in attaining social recognition and underpins the complex dynamics of social exchange practices. This study explores the relationship between being unneeded and loneliness in later life, focusing on the impact on one’s identity and ability to form connections with others. We conducted in-depth interviews with 44 older persons in Singapore with varying experiences of loneliness. Using a life-course perspective, participants narrated their experiences of loneliness across domains of family, friendships, work, and community. Loneliness, attributed to being unneeded, features more prominently in later life and pertains to perceived limited personal mastery, negative ageing perceptions, role-loss, life transitions and declines in health. Experiences of being unneeded is embedded in older persons’ beliefs that their self-worth and social recognition is tied to individual strive and diligence– an ideology of meritocracy that has been perpetuated by the Singapore state. Studies have shown how beliefs in meritocracy are associated with lowered likelihood of loneliness among older persons. The Singapore story indicates otherwise – loneliness prevails when older persons with declining resources struggle to find a place in a society which accords worth and recognition to one’s productivity and contribution to the nation.
LONELINESS AMONG OLDER FAMILY CAREGIVERS: A STUDY OF CAREGIVING INTENSITY, TYPE AND LOCATION BASED ON THE CLSA
Authors: Li Lun , Wister Andrew , Lee Yeonjung Lee , Kim Boah 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Caring for family members during aging is a risk factor for loneliness among older caregivers (65 years and older). However, loneliness is less understood than other caregiving outcomes (e.g., burden, depression) in caregiving literature. This study aims to examine loneliness among older caregivers using the second wave of data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (2015 to 2018). Based on 6603 older caregivers, linear regression was conducted to examine the relationship between loneliness and caregiving intensity, caregiver type and care location, and ANCOVA was performed to examine the intersection of caregiving intensity and caregiver type, as well as caregiving intensity and care location. A higher level of loneliness is significantly associated with spousal caregivers (vs. non-spousal family caregivers), higher caregiving intensity (vs. lower caregiving intensity), and caregiving to someone living in another household or healthcare institution (vs. in the same household). In addition, spousal caregivers with higher caregiving intensity, and older caregivers to someone in healthcare institutions with higher caregiving intensity are two main risk groups for greater loneliness. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between loneliness and caregiving situations among older caregivers. Remarkably, more service programs are needed to support older caregiver who support loved ones in healthcare institutions.
SENSORY LOSS IN AGING: SPOTLIGHTING JUNIOR AND NEW GSA INVESTIGATORS IN THE SENSORY HEALTH SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP
Authors: Deal Jennifer , Whitson Heather 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Our senses (hearing, vision, touch, taste, smell) are the means by which our brains perceive our environment, allowing us to engage and connect with our world. Recommendations for maintaining brain health and function with age include maintaining strong social connections and participating in intellectually stimulating mental and physical activities. However, our senses are what allow us to engage in these activities. Sensory loss is common in older adults, with over 2/3 of adults over age 55 experiencing loss in multiple senses. The goal of the Sensory Health Special Interest Group (SIG) is to foster collaboration and dissemination of research and clinical/educational resources for professionals interested in sensory health and the effects of sensory impairments on the overall health and well-being of older adults. This session will meet this goal by highlighting work that demonstrates the importance of sensory health with age conducted by outstanding Sensory Health SIG investigators who are early in their career path or who are new to GSA. We will start by discussing the importance of olfaction for mental health over time in older adults and vision for markers of neurodegeneration. We will then have three presentations that consider multiple risk factors, including sensory loss, for cognitive function. First, we will present on the moderation of the association between hearing loss and dementia by sleep. We will then present on the association between multisensory loss and cognitive test performance, and finally, how the inclusion of sensorimotor measures can improve prediction of subsequent neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment. This is a Sensory Health Interest Group Sponsored Symposium.
HOW GERONTOLOGY PROGRAMS ARE MEETING CHALLENGES IN HIGHER EDUCATION
Authors: Erickson Mary Ann 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Population aging means that gerontology education is increasingly relevant for all students, yet trends in higher education create existential challenges for many gerontology programs, who may not attract robust number of applicants or majors. In this symposium, educators from five different gerontology programs will share their programs’ particular challenges as well as a wide variety of strategies they have used to meet these challenges. The first presentation will show how recent losses at Ithaca College, including the Aging Studies major and independent department status, also come with opportunities for collaboration with health science and public health programs. The second presentation will describe the University of North Carolina at Wilmington’s approach of combining undergraduate and graduate programs to attract and retain students after being placed on a “low-productivity list” in the not-too-distant past. The third presentation will share how a new Occupational Endorsement Certificate at the University of Alaska Anchorage took the place of the deactivated gerontology minor. Colleagues from the University of Massachusetts Boston will describe their efforts to enhance diversity and grow program enrollment across undergraduate and graduate programs. Finally, the fifth presentation will describe how increased demand for general education courses as well as funding dependent on undergraduate major enrollment created challenges at the University of South Florida. This is a Directors of Aging Centers Interest Group Sponsored Symposium.
LEANING INTO COLLABORATION AT ITHACA COLLEGE
Authors: Erickson Mary Ann , Bergman Elizabeth 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Ithaca College is a private comprehensive college of about 6,000 students in upstate New York. Its Gerontology Institute (ICGI) was formed in 1992, with a major and a minor in Aging Studies added in 2001. Despite a high profile in the local community and in the field of gerontology, program evaluation consistently revealed important challenges including trouble promoting a gerontology major to high school seniors (especially important at a tuition-dependent school like Ithaca College) and credit-heavy health professions programs where advisors were reluctant to have students add a minor or double major. Institutional forces accelerated by the pandemic led to retrenchment in 2021, including the loss of the major as well as the ICGI being folded into a department of health sciences and public health. In this presentation, we share both details of past challenges as well as the ways in which we are moving forward with a more collaborative model focused on connections within the School of Health Sciences and Human Performance.