bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
WIDENING SEXUAL ORIENTATION INEQUITIES IN SMOKING AMONG OLDER ADULTS IN THE UNITED STATES, 2015–2019
Authors: Yang Jie 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
A recent editorial in Tobacco Control noted the neglect of older adults in the field of tobacco control, arguing that we must do better. This study seeks to answer that call and amplify its message by assessing what is missed in health equity research when older adults are ignored in another area of inequity: differences in smoking by sexual orientation. We used pooled data from the 2015-2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. We estimated smoking prevalence for older adults aged ≥50 (N=43,956) by gender and sexual identity. Following the National Center for Health Statistics guidelines for analysis of trends, we used logistic regression to examine the association between continuous year (time) and smoking controlling for sexual identity. We also tested inequities in change using an interaction between year and sexual identities. In Model 1, there was a significant decreasing trend of smoking among all older adults: With each passing year, the odds of smoking went down (aOR 0.98, 95%CI 0.95-1.00). Heterosexual men, gay men, bisexual women), and lesbian women had a higher likelihood of smoking than heterosexual women. In Model 2, there was a significant interaction between year and sexual identity (aOR 1.34, 95%CI 1.02-1.75). That is, the change in likelihood of smoking from 2015 to 2019 for bisexual women was significantly different than the change for heterosexual women. Widening inequities in current smoking across some sexual identities among older adults indicate the importance of ensuring cessation campaigns for LGB adults are not just reaching younger adults.
BARRIERS TO HEPATITIS C TREATMENT AMONG US BABY BOOMERS: PROVIDER PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Wethington Elaine 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Chronic Hepatitis C (HCV) is a major health problem in the US for the baby boomer cohort (born 1945-65), affecting 1.8 million persons; 75% acquired it through injection drug use in earlier life. About 20% develop cirrhosis, often leading to end stage liver disease. HCV is curable and treatment has become more affordable and available. However, uptake of treatment has lagged. This paper reports on a semi-structured interview study of 36 health providers from 2 states (NY, AL) with experience treating/referring HCV+ patients, part of a mixed-methods study of providers and patients. Interviews were coded using thematic analysis. Providers reported that baby boomers, especially racial/ethnic minority and low income, experience barriers to HCV care, because of the complexity of the treatment cascade (testing, linkage to qualified providers, prescribing treatment, insurance delays, and successful completion of therapy). Low provider awareness of need to test for and treat HCV, limited access to specialists (the primary prescribers of HCV medications until recently), variable effectiveness of health systems in assuring successful treatment, and insurer initial reluctance to support treating all infected persons, have also contributed to disparities in care. Perceived stigma and discrimination are barriers to treatment even among the majority of newly diagnosed HCV+ baby boomers who no longer use injection drugs. Providers report that patients fear that families and workplaces will avoid or isolate them if their past drug use becomes known. Moreover, patients who have yet to experience serious health impact may delay treatment, given fears about discrimination against drug users.
CHILDHOOD TRAUMA AMONG US VETERANS AND THEIR NEGATIVE HEALTH AND RISKY BEHAVIORS IN LATER LIFE
Authors: Dayrit Jessika , Salom-Bail Shirley , Islaya Cesz , Castro Eunice 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
Behavioral and health outcomes of childhood traumas are public health issues. Research on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been explored among the general population; however, ACEs among persons with history of military service remains unknown.

Methods
Current study used secondary dataset obtained from CDC Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) 2011. Study’s total sample size was 7,112. Data was weighted to account for the complex sampling design and nonresponse. Logistic regression was used to explore ACEs among US Veterans, and how early trauma correlates to long-term health problems, while controlling for their socioeconomic status.

Results
Our analyses suggested that compared to participants with 0 ACEs, those who reported 1 ACE (OR=1.38; CI=1.10-1.73), 2 ACEs (OR=2.30; CI=1.80-2.95), 3 ACEs (OR=2.81; CI=2.11-3.73), and 4+ ACEs (OR=4.04; CI=3.20-5.09) were more likely to report depression. Participants who reported for having 4+ ACEs were 4.16 times more likely to report in risky sexual behaviors (OR=4.16; CI= 1.83-9.46). Individuals with 4+ ACEs scores were 30% more likely to report binge drinking (OR=1.30; CI=1.02-1.67), 94% at risk for being a smoker (OR=1.94; CI=1.54-2.45) and had higher odds of developing poor health status (OR=1.67; CI=1.32-2.10).

Conclusion
Our research suggests that more ACEs score associates to a higher risk of developing health issues in later life. Research on ACEs has traditionally focused on health outcomes using secondary datasets among the general population. More research should be explored in longitudinal studies on ACEs, particularly with persons who have served in the military.
DIABETES OCCURRENCE, RISK FACTORS, AND LIFESTYLE PATTERNS IN OLDER ADULTS ATTENDING SENIOR CENTERS
Authors: Ruggiero Laurie , Orsega-Smith Elizabeth , Kayatta Sophia 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Diabetes risk and rates increase across age with prevalence rates of diagnosed diabetes of 24% and estimated pre-diabetes rates of 49% in adults 65 or older (2017-2020; CDC, 2020) underscoring the importance of understanding diabetes risk factors and lifestyle behaviors in older adults. Senior centers offer a unique opportunity to reach older adults to deliver health promotion interventions. The study purpose was to examine diabetes/pre-diabetes occurrence, risk factors, lifestyle behaviors, and preferences for promoting healthy lifestyles to reduce diabetes risk in older adults (&gt;60). An anonymous cross-sectional self-report survey was administered in senior centers. It included questions regarding occurrence of diabetes, diabetes risk factors, and hypertension; self-reported health status; lifestyle behavior patterns; cognitive function; and social engagement. Open-ended questions obtained information on diabetes risk awareness and preferences for healthy lifestyle interventions delivered in senior centers. The sample included 159 adults: average age of 76 years (range: 60-96), 77% female, 83% White, and 14% African American. Reported health related patterns include: 89% rated health as good-excellent; 74% were at high risk for pre-diabetes; 64% had hypertension; and 20% were told by provider of diabetes and 32% pre-diabetes. Reported lifestyle patterns included: 73% get regular physical activity, 53% eat 5 daily fruits/vegetables, 7% smoke, and average 7 hours of sleep/night. The large proportion at high risk for pre-diabetes underscores the importance of focusing on diabetes prevention in older adults and potential for delivering healthy lifestyle interventions in senior centers. Presentation will describe the quantitative and qualitative results and implications for lifestyle interventions.
DIFFERENTIAL PAIN SENSATION AND GUT MICROBIOME BETWEEN YOUNG AND OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Chen Jie , Wang Zequan , Starkweather Angela , Chen Ming-Hui , Miao Hongyu , Ahn Hyochol , Cong Xiaomei 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the differences in pain sensation and gut microbiota between young and older adults. Twenty-one healthy young adults (YAs) and sixteen healthy older adults (OAs) were recruited. Quantitative sensory testing data, and stool samples were collected. The 16S rRNA V4 gene region of stool samples were sequenced and processed by using the Mothur 1.42.3 pipeline. The mean ages of YAs and OAs were 20.14 (SD = 1.39) and 63.19 (SD = 8.00), respectively. Eleven of the YAs and 12 of the OAs were female, and 8 of the YAs and 3 of the OAs reported pain. OAs had significantly higher heat pain threshold (HPT), higher pressure pain threshold (PPT), lower cold detection threshold (CDT), and lower cold pain threshold (CPT) than YAs (all p &lt; 0.05). OAs had significantly different a-diversity indices including higher species of observed (Sobs), Chao index and Shannon index, and lower coverage, and significantly different beta diversity indices (Bray-Curtis, Jaccard, and Theta YC) than YAs. The significantly abundant taxa in YAs included Bacteroidaceae, Veillonellaceae, and Alcaligenaceae. Coriobacteriaceae, Streptococcaceae, Lachnospiraceae, Erysipelotrichaceae, and Verrucomicrobiaceae were significantly enriched in OAs. The Spearman correlation analysis showed that the CDT, CPT, and HPT were significantly associated with gut microbiota Sobs, Chao index, Shannon index, and coverage (all p &lt; 0.05). But the directions and coefficients of correlations varied. OAs had distinguished peripheral sensation and gut microbiota profiles than YAs. The changed peripheral sensation and gut microbiota profiles among OAs may be biomarkers of aging-related pain processing.
DEMENTIA CAREGIVER RE-ENTRY INITIATIVE: FINDING NEW DIRECTION AND PURPOSE AFTER CAREGIVING ENDS
Authors: Wolfe Warren , Fairbanks Sheryl 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Many former dementia caregivers struggle to find a “new normal” when the long and exhausting caregiving journey ends. Grieving eases, the estate is settled, and now what? Who am I after caregiving ends? Following 12 years of intense care for their parents, two with dementia, Sheryl Fairbanks and Warren Wolfe searched nationally for a program that might help them restart their lives. They found none. In 2016, they launched the Former Dementia Caregiver Re-Entry Initiative, which has served more than sixty people. At a kick-off meeting, former caregivers said their deepest needs were reestablishing relationships with family and friends and finding new life purpose. Typically, six to eight former caregivers meet twice a month – online since the COVID pandemic - and focus on moving forward. They share that these meetings give them a renewed purpose, deeper social connections, increased energy and a new sense of self-esteem. “My kids care. My friends care,” one member explained. “But nobody who hasn’t lived it really knows how hard that time was, and how hard it is to find a new path.” Four similar programs have started in Minnesota, The couple has written a book to encourage more. In 2022, Ms. Fairbanks and Mr. Wolfe became Community Leads in a University of Minnesota research project to see if Black former dementia caregivers have unmet needs and whether this model might help. Preliminary findings will be presented at the Addressing the Needs of African American Bereaved Dementia Caregivers symposium at this GSA annual meeting.
EFFECTS OF BEING FORGOTTEN ON ADULT CHILDREN OF MOTHERS WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Wood Kristie , Suizzo Marie-Anne 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Mothers with dementia sometimes do not recognize their adult children. Yet, research on the effects of being forgotten by a mother with dementia is scarce. Object relations theorists posit that healthy development of a child’s sense of self is linked to being remembered by a primary caretaker. Further, being held in mind by a primary caregiver allows the child to form a cohesive identity. It is unclear how adult children’s identities are impacted by being forgotten by their mothers. To investigate this phenomenon, this qualitative study explored the effects of being forgotten on adult children in the context of dementia. The aims were: 1) to develop an in-depth understanding of what it means for adults to be forgotten by their mothers with dementia, and 2) to gain insight on the effect of being forgotten on adults’ identities. Data were gathered through 12 interviews. Data was analyzed following an interpretative phenomenological analysis approach. Preliminary findings suggest adult children of mothers with dementia experience being forgotten as both a threat to their identity and forewarning of continued poor disease outcomes. The following themes illustrate this: 1) The sense that one’s existence was not important enough to be remembered, 2) Feelings of failure due to the inability to spark recognition of themselves in their mother’s mind, and 3) Dread for the disease progression. While research regarding adult children of parents with dementia largely focuses on practical aspects of caregiving, clinical implications of these findings suggest that this population suffers silently from being forgotten.
A SCOPING REVIEW OF SYSTEMS-LEVEL INTERVENTIONS FOR FALL PREVENTION IN LONG-TERM CARE
Authors: Ustach Andrew , Wi Dahee , Thompson Hilaire 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Older adults residing in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) are at high risk for falls. In addition to individual resident-level interventions to prevent falls and fall-related injury (FRI), system-focused interventions are also necessary to adequately address fall prevention. Relatively little attention has been given to research involving systems-focused interventions. We aimed to synthesize studies on the effects of system-focused interventions for fall and FRI prevention in LTCFs with the goal of identifying promising strategies and gaps. We searched Medline, CINAHL, and EMBASE databases from 2017 to 2022 following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guideline. We conducted a narrative synthesis to summarize included studies. In the initial review, 301 studies were identified and underwent title and abstract screening resulting in 98 articles were retrieved for full-text review. Fifteen studies were included in data extraction. Fall prevention interventions evaluated in LTCF settings include: (1) multicomponent fall prevention programs, (2) staff education programs, (3) training in safe handling/transfers, (4) environmental adaptations, (5) electronic health record algorithms and prompts, (6) local culture change, (7) video analysis of falls to change local interventions, and (8) facility-level physical activity programs. About half of reported studies reported significant effects of system-focused interventions to reduce fall and FRI in LTCFs. Multicomponent fall prevention programs and physical activity interventions are the most effective systems-level interventions, while electronic health record interventions were the least effective. Overall, little attention has been given in the literature to evaluation of environmental adaptations at the systems level.
DISPARITIES IN MOCA AND MMSE SCORES AMONG DIVERSE OLDER ADULTS: A CASE ANALYSIS OF CREOLE-SPEAKING PARTICIPANTS
Authors: Adonis-Rizzo Marie , Tappen Ruth , Rosselli Monica , Newman David , Panday Somi , Conniff Joshua 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Almost 11% of older adults in the US have Alzheimer’s or related dementia. Most studies suggest that those who are Black or Hispanic are at higher risk. A culturally diverse sample, including Haitian older adults, was recruited from South Florida communities to participate in a longitudinal study, “In-Vehicle Sensors to Detect Change in Cognition of Older Drivers.” An extensive cognitive battery was administered for comparison with driving behaviors. No validated translations in Creole were available, so three Haitian-born examiners translated and back-translated test items into Creole. Two additional bilingual examiners verified the results. An analysis of variance (ANCOVA) comparing Haitian participants (N=12) and European Americans (N=135) on the MoCA controlling for age and education indicated the European American group scored higher (M = 25.78, SD = 2.57) than the Haitian Group (M =24.17, SD = 3.01), a significant difference in test performance, F (1, 124) = 6.11, P= .015. Results on four subscales of the MoCA evidenced significantly higher scores for the European American group: Visual EX Total, F (1, 124) = 22.52, p &lt; .001; Serial-7, F (1, 124) = 12.09, p &lt;.001; Attention Total, F (1, 124) = 5.10, p &lt;.001; Letter Score F (1, 124) = 13.09, p &lt;.001. No differences in language, abstract, delayed recall, or orientation were found. These preliminary results suggest cultural influences may account for differences in test performance. Further investigation with a larger sample of Haitian older adults is needed to explain differences in performance on this widely used test.
BUILDING AN AGE-FRIENDLY ECOSYSTEM THROUGH NEIGHBORHOODS, HEALTH SYSTEMS, AND CAMPUSES
Authors: Greer Valerie , Fulmer Terry , Cadiz Ashley , Hernandez Christopher , Edelman Linda 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The age-friendly movement grew from an idea into a social movement recognizing the importance of adapting multiple facets of society to meet the needs of older adults. The movement integrates multidisciplinary work in research, policy, planning and design to build age-friendly ecosystems. Age-friendly ecosystems comprised of communities, health systems and campuses can become platforms for equity, health, and wellness for older adults. We designed a virtual symposium to examine age friendliness from a place-based approach by examining neighborhoods, campuses and health environments as sites uniquely positioned to catalyze equity in aging. The symposium was convened by national experts and regional aging stakeholders to consider how age friendly environments can address urgent social, environmental and health challenges, and create measurable outcomes that promote aging well for all. Knowledge was generated through lectures, panel discussions, a world café, focus group discussions, and a student-ideas competition. There were 113 attendees, including 27 health professions students; 78% of attendees indicated their work focused on aging/older adults and 52% reported specialized training in geriatrics/gerontology. Attendees reported increased familiarity with age-friendly concepts post-symposium. Key findings indicated the benefits of shared language and metrics across place-types that can collectively transform the social, physical, and economic landscape of aging. Symposium outcomes include a website, graphic facilitation, a collaboration resource guide, and a forthcoming book. Outcomes are serving as a foundation to radically re-imagine cross-sector collaborations between communities, health systems and campuses to create an ecosystem that embraces longevity as an asset and advances equity in aging.
PROMOTING INTERGENERATIONAL EXCHANGES WITHIN RURAL AGE-FRIENDLY COMMUNITIES: A CBPR APPROACH
Authors: Pumilio Victoria , Steinman Bernard 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO) Global Age-Friendly Cities (AFC) guide identifies eight interconnected domains for promoting the well-being, engagement, and participation of older adults in community activities and events. It defines an inclusive society as one that actively encourages older adults to participate in their community’s social, civic, and economic life. Research often prioritizes addressing the physical challenges many older adults face, frequently overlooking societal engagement aspects that promote active aging and inclusion. This research outlines how a Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) approach was used to uncover and address the societal stigmas and counterproductive attitudes experienced by older adults in a rural age-friendly designated community. Our CBPR approach is characterized as a process encountered in three stages: (i) conducting a multigenerational survey on age-friendliness, (ii) engaging community members in planning intergenerational opportunities, and (iii) implementing intergenerational engagement activities identified in earlier stages. By participating in methodologies from both CBPR and grounded theory approaches, older adults acquired agency and voice in the research process, thus directly impacting age-friendly outcomes in their communities. Our findings detail the importance of utilizing a CBPR approach when researching core AFC fundamentals that are instrumental in creating inclusive policies and promoting healthful, mutually beneficial intergenerational opportunities.
A DYADIC ASSESSMENT OF COGNITIVE RESOURCES AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION AMONG OLDER KOREAN AMERICAN COUPLES
Authors: Park Nan , Jang Yuri , Kim Kyungmin , Chung Soondool , Haley William , Chiriboga David , Kim Miyong 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Individuals’ health and well-being are often shaped by significant others in their lives in that spousal relationships are particularly important. In dyadic studies among older couples, few studies have examined cognitive health as an outcome variable. Considering the lack of couple research on cognition especially among older immigrant population, the purpose of this study was to examine the cognitive function of community-dwelling older Korean American couples in the U.S. Data were drawn from a survey with older Korean Americans aged 60 and older, collected during 2017−2018 in multiple locations. Using a subset of 252 couples of the survey (individual N = 504), we examined the extent to which one’s cognitive function was associated with the cognitive resources (education, acculturation, friend network, and activity participation) of their own and of their spouse. The analyses with the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model showed the differences in the actor- and partner-effects between spouses. For husbands, acculturation was the only significant actor-level predictor to cognitive function. Wives’ cognitive function was associated with a wider array of their own cognitive resources, including education, friend network, and activity participation. The partner effect was only observed in education for husbands, indicating that wives’ higher education was beneficial for their husbands’ cognitive function. Further, the cognitive benefit of higher education was found to be maximized for husbands who also had greater levels of acculturation or activity participation. For practice implications, cognitive resources both in individual and spousal levels could help promote the cognitive health and well-being of older married couples.