bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
COHORT CHANGE AND LIFE COURSE SOCIOECONOMIC DIFFERENCES IN COGNITIVE HEALTH TRAJECTORIES
Authors: Cha Hyungmin 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The combination of socioeconomic gains and losses during a lifetime contributes to a large inequality in cognitive capacity in later life. Although studies have examined the connection between an individual’s socioeconomic status over the life course and cognitive health trajectories, it is unclear how historical contexts may have influenced these associations. In light of the dynamic macro-social environment in Korea, this study utilizes data from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA) from 2006 to 2018. I explore the variation in the socioeconomic patterning of cognitive health trajectories based on the benchmarking of socioeconomic status across the life course. The study reveals three main findings. First, I find cohort-specific cognitive health trajectories based on socioeconomic status across the life course. Notably, childhood socioeconomic status leaves an indelible mark on levels of cognition only among earlier cohorts born during the Japanese Occupation period. Additionally, socioeconomic disparities in the rate of cognitive health decline widen among earlier cohorts, while this trend is not observed among more recent cohorts. Second, compared to childhood and later-life socioeconomic status, education consistently shows a positive association with higher levels of cognition rather than slower cognitive decline, regardless of whether the cohorts are earlier or more recent. Third, there is a notable gender difference in socioeconomic disparities in cognitive decline, with women experiencing more pronounced disparities compared to men, especially among earlier cohorts. These findings underscore the significance of historical and contextual factors when examining the association between socioeconomic status and cognitive health across the life course.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT IN OLDER ADULTS WITH COGNITIVE DECLINE: THE USAGE OF INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Zhan Rong-Fang , Mpofu Elias , Olanrewaju Sherif , Sutherland Laura 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
Cognitive decline is typical among older adults, affecting their activities of daily living and community participation. However, the advent of cognitive function support information technologies may improve their community engagement, perhaps more than memory training alone. This study examined information communication technology usage as a mediator of associations of cognitive decline and community engagement in older adults.

Methods
We sampled older adult cases from Round 11 of the National Health and Aging Trends Study data set (N=3817) with cognitive decline in community dwelling (mean age =81.38, SD=6.266), male (n= 1313) and female (n=1771). We utilized multi-level Structural Equation Model (SEM) to examine the mediation of cognitive decline and community connection through the ICTs, as well as direct relationships among memory, orientation, and executive function.

Results
From SEM analysis, an increase of ICTs usage has statistically significantly effects on older adults’ cognitive ability overall (Estimate = 0.103, S.E. = 0.023, C.R. = 4.438, p &lt; 0.001). Cognitive function has a direct impact on the activity orientation function (Estimate=1, p &lt; 0.0011.000). The greater usage of ICTs by older adults is associated with higher levels of community engagement (Estimate = 1.230, S.E. = 0.284, C.R. = 4.338, P &lt; 0.001).

Conclusion
This finding highlights the potential role of ICTs in fostering older adults’ cognitive function for their social interactions and community involvement. Digital age older adults may have greater cognitive function than previous cohort, reducing demand for care services their community participation.
COMPARISON OF DNA METHYLATION IN SALIVA, BUFFY COAT AND PBMC SAMPLES IN CATSLIFE
Authors: Evans Donald , Smolen Andrew , Reynolds Chandra 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The design of the Colorado Adoption/Twin Study of Lifespan behavioral development and cognitive aging (CATSLife) allows for separation of genetic and environmental factors affecting health and cognitive aging. Currently, this sample is transitioning through midlife. One goal of this study is to identify epigenetic changes associated with aging, however methylation profiles differ across tissue types. Therefore, we describe here the analysis of DNA methylation in three CATSLife sample types: saliva, buffy coat, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Obtaining saliva is least invasive, although it may be less informative about brain and cognitive aging processes. In contrast, while buffy coats and PBMCs may be more informative, obtaining blood is more invasive. Buffy coats are less expensive to obtain than PBMCs, however they contain more cell types which may complicate analysis. Our analyses of 91 participants, suggested that saliva samples were less likely to pass initial quality control (&lt; 96% CpGs detected). Unsurprisingly, the buffy coat and PBMC DNA methylation signatures are more similar to each other (r=0.97) than either is to saliva (rs=0.88—0.92). In initial analyses, each sample type demonstrated expected familial/heritable patterns of similarity across sites (MZ twins &gt; DZ twins &gt; biological & adoptive siblings). Given the additional cost of isolating PBMCs and computational methods to account for complex cell mixtures, the use of buffy coat DNA increases accessibility to analyze epigenetic changes longitudinally, enabling the early identification of epigenetic biomarkers of cognitive decline and the effect of both genes and environments on this process.
COMPREHENSIVE MALNUTRITION ASSESSMENT IMPROVES HEALTH OUTCOMES AMONG HOMEBOUND OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Saffel-Shrier Susan , Covington Amy , Wang jing 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Approximately 30 percent of older adults are malnourished upon hospital admission while others develop malnutrition during hospitalization and subsequent discharge. High hospital readmission rates are associated with malnutrition. Malnutrition is common among older adults discharged to home and receiving home delivered meals. However, there is limited research on the appropriate malnutrition care for this population. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a novel social determinants of health (SDOH)-based comprehensive malnutrition assessment (CMA) on malnutrition treatment and functionality. A pilot study of 46 participants recruited from northern Utah Area Agencies on Aging Nutrition Programs was conducted. The SDOH-CMA was performed during home visitations by a registered dietitian nutritionists for both the intervention and control groups over a six-month period. Logistic regression was then conducted to compare the effect of the SDOH-based CMA on malnutrition as assessed by the Nutrition-Focused Physical Exam (NFPE) between intervention and control groups. Odds ratios (OR) with p values were reported. At baseline, 91.4% of participants were white, 54% were female, 76% were unmarried, 67% lived below the federal poverty level, 61% lived alone, 51% received home health, 51% had anxiety, 33% had PHQ-2 screened depression, 22% were unable to cook, and 13% were unable to shop. The intervention group had significant improvements in the NFPE (OR=10.1, p=.02), calorie intake (OR= 19.6, p=.02), protein intake (OR=36.7, p =.007) and the Timed Up and Go test (OR=7.7, p=.05) than the control group. The intervention was significantly effective in improving nutritional status and functionality.
CO-PRODUCING A BOARDGAME TO LEARN AND ENGAGE ABOUT DEMENTIA INEQUALITIES: THE DEMENTIA INEQUALITIES GAME
Authors: Giebel Clarissa , Hanna Kerry , Tetlow Hilary , Gabbay Mark , Cannon Jacqui 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Receiving a diagnosis and accessing care after a diagnosis of dementia, both for the person and their carer, are fraught with inequalities. Finding different ways to address these inequalities is important. The aim of this public engagement activity was to co-produce a boardgame about dementia inequalities to facilitate learning, dialogue and educate about different barriers, and facilitators, to diagnosis and care. Two virtual and two face-to-face workshops with people with dementia, unpaid carers, health and social care professionals, and Third Sector representatives were held between October 2022 and June 2023. The virtual workshops were split into discussions of inequalities and how a boardgame may feature inequalities. The first face-to-face workshop was split into the same activities, aided by outcomes from workshops 1 and 2. Workshop 4 attendees tested the prototype. Attendees were reimbursed for their time. Nine brief remote interviews with attendees were conducted to evaluate their experiences in the co-production of the boardgame. Forty stakeholders attended four workshops. Workshops provided step-by-step thoughts on how the game could be designed or modified. The final game, prototype tested in Workshop 4, consists of a one-sided, two-half board depicting the pre-diagnosis process (left half) and post-diagnosis process (right half). Interviews with nine attendees reported on their reasons for attending the workshops, experiences of being involved, and the game design and purpose. The game can be used to improve knowledge about dementia inequalities for health and social care professionals, carers, people living with dementia, decision makers, and the general public.
CORRELATES OF SUPERAGING IN TWO REPRESENTATIVE SAMPLES OF HISPANIC OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Doyle Cassidy , Andel Ross , Saenz Joseph , Crowe Michael 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
‘SuperAgers’ are generally defined as people 80+ years old with episodic memory performance comparable to those 20 years younger. Understanding what distinguishes SuperAgers from those who age normally is valuable for designing population-wide strategies to promote health with aging. Limited knowledge exists to describe characteristics of SuperAgers, and even less is known about Hispanic SuperAgers. We examined indicators of cognitive, physical, and psychological resilience in relation to the likelihood of being a SuperAger. We used data from two population-based studies including Hispanic older adults [Puerto Rican Elder: Health Conditions (PREHCO) study; Health and Retirement Study (HRS)]. SuperAgers were defined as 1) ≥80 years old, 2) recall scores ≥ the median for Hispanic respondents aged 55-64, and 3) no cognitive impairment at any wave (2002-2003, 2006-2007, 2021-2022 in PREHCO; 2002, 2006, 2018 in HRS). In all, 640 PREHCO participants and 180 HRS participants met criteria, of whom 45 (7%) and 31 (17%) met SuperAging criteria. Logistic regressions controlling for age and sex demonstrated that higher education (PREHCO: odds ratio[OR]=1.20, p&lt;.001; HRS: OR=1.14, p=.044) and fewer IADL limitations (PREHCO: OR=0.79, p=.019; HRS: OR=0.58, p=.077), fewer ADL limitations (PREHCO: OR=0.72, p=.031; HRS: OR=0.67, p=.068) (physical resilience), and fewer depressive symptoms (psychological resilience) (PREHCO: OR=0.84, p=.015; HRS: OR=0.69, p=.007) were associated with SuperAging. In addition, number of chronic conditions, self-rated health, or BMI, known indicators of physical health, did not relate to SuperAging, potentially highlighting resilience in aging rather than resistance to aging. These findings highlight potential pathways to promote aging among older Hispanics.
DEMAND-ABILITIES FIT AND PRESTIGE INFLUENCE OLDER WORKERS’ INTEREST IN ALTERNATIVE JOBS
Authors: Baker Nathan , Van Fossen Jenna , Schuster Amy , Chang Chu-Hsiang , Ford J Kevin 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
With the increasing displacement of workers due to technological innovations, many older workers may need or want to make career transitions. Therefore, it is critical to understand the factors that influence older workers acceptance of potential alternative careers. In this study, long-distance truck drivers (n=202), a profession at-risk of technological disruption, completed an online survey where they rated six alternative transition occupations (e.g., machine setting, operator and tender, cargo and freight agent) to understand what makes them interested in alternate jobs. Using multilevel modeling (with occupations nested in participants), we evaluated the role of perceptions of demand-abilities fit and prestige, as moderated by age, on interest in alternative careers. Demand-abilities fit and job prestige were positively associated with rated job appeal, which was positively associated with interest in the job as a transition occupation. Older drivers, relative to younger truck drivers, found job prestige to be more appealing, which appeared to make them more interested in transitioning into these jobs. Our results extend person-environment fit and socio-emotional selectivity theory by showcasing how age relates to evaluations of occupations for career transitions, an area that is rising in importance given the increases in an aging workforce and potential disruptions from automation. Results carry practical importance for preparing the workforce for career disruptions given automation by identifying qualities that may shape workers’ willingness to transition, and identifying how these qualities differ based on age.
DEMENTIA-RELATED STIGMA, KNOWLEDGE, AND WILLINGNESS TO UNDERGO COGNITIVE SCREENING AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Kasenetz Whitney , Crisci Alex , Rote Wendy , O’Brien Jennifer 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Screening for dementia such as Alzheimer’s Disease may be most beneficial at the earliest detectable stages of disease presentation, yet there is no definitive recommendation for routine cognitive impairment screening and dementia remains underdiagnosed. Identifying perceptions of cognitive screening, stigmatized beliefs, and misconceptions about dementia could be beneficial for creating interventions that promote dementia knowledge to improve early screening and diagnosis and empower older adults to seek treatment sooner. Thus, we examined the extent to which attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge about cognitive screening and dementia predict willingness to undergo screening and subsequent screening behavior. 295 subjects aged ≥ 60 years completed online surveys containing the Perceptions Regarding Investigational Screening for Memory in Primary Care (PRISM-PC) questionnaire to assess attitudes about dementia screening and diagnosis, as well as the Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS). Participants were then invited to complete the Montreal Cognitive Assessment in a university psychology laboratory. 94% of participants reported willingness to undergo screening, but only 69% completed one. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the screening acceptance scale of the PRISM-PC significantly predicted reported willingness to undergo screening but not the pursuit of screening. The other PRISM-PC subscales (perceived benefits of dementia screening, stigma of dementia screening, suffering from dementia screening, and impact of dementia screening on patient’s independence) and the ADKS did not predict willingness or pursuit of screening. While most were willing to undergo screening, significantly fewer completed screening within the study. The factors that predict pursuit of cognitive screening require further investigation.
DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF THE COUPLE EFFICACY TO BALANCE WORK AND ELDERCARE SCALE
Authors: Cho Eunae , Allen Tammy , Cheng Grand 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This study developed and validated a measure of couple efficacy to balance work and eldercare (i.e., a couple’s shared belief in their conjoint abilities to achieve work-eldercare balance as a couple), a key cognitive factor for work-eldercare arrangements, individual well-being, and work and couple outcomes. Survey data were collected from 408 dual-earner couples in Taiwan who care for an older adult. Exploratory factor analysis identified three factors with eigenvalues greater than 1, but parallel analysis suggested extracting two factors. After considering item contents and factor loadings, a final 2-factor scale comprising 10 items was selected. The first dimension, task-oriented, reflects couple efficacy concerning the execution of various tasks to balance paid work and eldercare (e.g., “I am confident that my spouse/partner and I can work together as a team to devote enough attention to important job and eldercare activities”; α=.81). The second dimension, relationship-oriented, reflects couple efficacy concerning the maintenance of intimate relationship while balancing paid work and eldercare (“I am confident that my spouse/partner and I can work together as a team to support each other in times of stress in trying to balance paid work and eldercare”; α=.87). Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that a hypothesized 2-factor outperforms an alternative 1-factor model. The nomological network involving generalized self-efficacy and life/job/marital satisfaction supported the validity of the new scale. This study contributes to the literature by introducing a new construct and offering a psychometrically sound measure that propels more empirical research on the important population of working informal caregivers.
DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF THE NOVEL MEDICATION TAKING INSTRUMENT - FOUR FACETS OF ADHERENCE (MTI-4)
Authors: Ryan Candace , Schutte Debra , Daugherty Ana 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Medication adherence is critical for disease management among aging African-Americans who are at greatest risk for poor adherence and affliction with chronic diseases. However, medication adherence is a complex behavior with distinct facets (frequency, pattern of adherence, barriers, and beliefs related to adherence), which current instruments cannot comprehensively measure in this underrepresented population. The Medication Taking Instrument – Four Facets of Adherence is an instrument developed to measure all facets of adherence among diverse, community-dwelling aging adults using the innovative application of the “Nursing Rights” of medication administration. Items were developed following a scoping review of the literature. Validation was obtained from medical professionals in Canada and the United States who prescribe medications to diverse patient populations. 12 of 13 medical professionals responded to the survey request (67% Nurse Practitioners, 33% Physicians) and rated each item (0=Low Agreement to 5=High Agreement) for clarity and validity of each item representing the specific facet. Most instrument items obtained high agreement (response rating &gt; 3) for both validity and clarity from 83% or more of respondents. Experts’ feedback augmented items for two facets (barriers and beliefs), improved clarity, minimized jargon, and supported instrument use in the clinical setting. The resulting instrument will comprehensively characterize medication adherence, direct more targeted research aims, and guide interventions to augment adherence among aging African Americans. Ongoing data collection in the Detroit Aging Brain Study will provide additional tests of factor structure, internal scale reliability, and convergent validity using other indicators of medication history and symptom control.
DIFFERENCES IN RESILIENCE AMONG MIDLIFE AND OLDER ADULTS BY SEXUAL AND GENDER IDENTITY AND BY GENERATION
Authors: Nelson Christi , Fredriksen-Goldsen Karen 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) (i.e., lesbian, gay, bisexual, sexual diverse, and transgender) midlife and older adults face specific health, social, and structural inequities in addition to the late-life challenges experienced by older adults in general. Extant research had largely examined health disparities and related risk and protective factors among SGM individuals as a homogeneous group, without attending to the heterogeneity among the subgroups and differing generations. Most research has also focused on stress with limited attention to resilience, even though higher resilience is associated with better health when facing adversity. Using baseline data from Aging with Pride: The National Health, Aging, and Sexuality/Gender Study, we identify historical/environmental, psychological, and social risk and protective factors that are associated with resilience in midlife and older SGM adults (n=2,450), aged 50-102, and examine differences in the associations between the factors and resilience by SGM and generational subgroups (i.e., Invisible, Silenced, and Pride). The results revealed differences in significant factors associated with resilience by SGM and generational subgroups. Identity affirmation was positively associated with resilience in all but the bisexual and transgender groups. Day-to-day discrimination was negatively associated with resilience for all but bisexual women. Community belongingness was positively associated with resilience for gay and bisexual men and the younger generations (Silenced and Pride). These results suggest that factors associated with fostering resilience, and in turn better health, may differ by SGM subgroup as well as by generation. Assessing differences in factors that promote resilience can help develop responsive interventions for targeted subgroups.
DIFFERENCES IN SEX-RELATED PERSONALITY TRAITS AND POLYPHARMACY AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH DEPRESSIVE DISORDERS
Authors: Tsai Tsung-Yu , Wang Tzu-Yun , Wang Yi-Hsin , Chen Kao Chin , Tseng Huai-Hsuan , Chiu Ching-Ju 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the potential correlations between personality traits and the occurrence of polypharmacy (defined as the use of five or more medications) in older adults diagnosed with depressive disorders. In this study, 90 participants (30 males, 60 females) with an average age of 71.3±5.0 years were included. Personality traits were evaluated using the short version of the 50-item International Personality Item Pool, while medication usage data were retrieved from the National Health Insurance Pharma Cloud Database. Hierarchical regression models were employed for data analysis to examine the associations between personality traits and polypharmacy. The results showed that the mean number of medications taken was 10.9 ± 6.8 and that 84.4% of the participants satisfied the criterion for polypharmacy. Notably, low levels of openness significantly correlated with a higher number of medications taken (B=-0.38, p&lt; 0.01). Gender-specific analyses demonstrated that low levels of conscientiousness (B=-0.07, p=0.01) and openness (B=-0.49, p=0.03) correlated with polypharmacy among males, whereas these personality traits displayed no significant correlations with polypharmacy in females (B=0.05, p=0.77, and B=-0.28, p=0.07, respectively). The findings underscore the elevated risk of polypharmacy among older adults diagnosed with depressive disorder. Additionally, the study highlights the necessity of considering gender differences in the interplay between personality traits and medication utilization patterns.