bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
ASSESSING HOW AGE, GENDER, RACE, AND EDUCATION AFFECT THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN COGNITIVE DOMAINS AND OLFACTION
Authors: Zhong Selena , Wroblewski Kristen , Laumann Edward , McClintock Martha , Pinto Jayant 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The associations between cognitive domains and odor identification are well-established, but how sociodemographic variables affect these relationships is less clear; using the survey-adapted Montreal Cognitive Assessment instrument (MoCA-SA), we assess how age, gender, race, and education shape these relationships. First, we used two different methods, cluster analysis and multidimensional scaling, to empirically derive distinct cognitive domains from the MoCA-SA since it is unclear whether the MoCA-SA can be disaggregated into cognitive domains. We then used ordinal logistic regression to test whether these empirically derived cognitive domains were associated with odor identification and how sociodemographic variables modified these relationships. We identified five out of the six theoretical cognitive domains, with the language domain unable to be identified. We found that odor identification was associated with episodic memory, visuospatial ability, and executive function. Stratified analyses by sociodemographic variables reveal that the associations between some of the cognitive domains and odor identification varied by age, gender, or race, but not by education. These results suggest that 1) the MoCA-SA can be used to identify cognitive domains in survey research and 2) the performance of smell tests as a screener for cognitive decline may potentially be weaker in certain subpopulations.
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF (RE)CONNECTING AFTER COVID-19
Authors: Rauer Amy , Fiori Katherine 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Although social distancing and other COVID-19 precautions were designed to protect older adults, the resultant disruptions to social connections were considerable. As vaccines became widely available, however, older adults were able to reconnect and resume social activities, a process we refer to in this symposium as social reintegration. The following studies highlight the challenges and opportunities associated with this reintegration process. First, Fuller et al.’s longitudinal, mixed-methods study considers how older adults’ coping strategies changed over the course of the pandemic as social distancing precautions were lifted. Building off this paper, Rauer et al. explore how and with whom older adults stayed occupied while reintegrating, and how activity profiles changed across six months. Using the same dataset to investigate the nature of these social interactions and the role of personality, Fiori et al. examine how positive and negative social exchanges and optimism predict changes in older adults’ attitudes about how COVID-19 shaped their family life. The role of individual differences is underscored by So et al.’s study of the surprisingly dynamic links between older adults’ generativity and their mental health as they reintegrated over six months. The transitory nature of this reintegration period is further highlighted by Marini et al., who found that older adults anticipated a wide variety of stressors and rewards over this time that changed with the emergence of new COVID-19 variants. Together, these papers paint a compelling picture of how older adults navigate times of transition to reconnect to others and establish a “new normal”.
LIVING WITH DEMENTIA: EXPERIENCES OF LGBTQ PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA AND SIGNIFICANT OTHERS
Authors: Siverskog Anna , Sandberg Linn 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Dementia is commonly conceptualized in biomedical terms as a deterioration of brain function and a subsequent loss of self. However, dementia scholars have increasingly underscored how the self of the person with dementia may be maintained through social interactions in their everyday life. This may pose specific challenges for LGBTQ people who may not be out in care settings due to fear of discrimination and whose chosen family may not be recognized by formal care providers. This paper presents preliminary findings from a qualitative study conducted in Sweden with LGBT individuals living with dementia. The project builds on policy analysis as well as semi-structured interviews with LGBTQ people with dementia, people significant to them such as partners, family and friends, and interviews with frontline care staff and managers within dementia care. The thematic analysis illustrates how experiences of living with dementia as an LGBTQ person vary depending on the progression and type of dementia, the individuals’ social support network, how open one is with their sexual orientation or gender identity, living at home or in a dementia care facility, socioeconomics, and other factors. In line with how other ageing scholars have pointed to the potentiality of queer theory to move beyond framing dementia as pathology and decline, concepts of queer time and queer failure are used here to understand the results in ways that disrupt notions of self, temporalities, normativity, subjectivity and what it means to age successfully.
PARTICIPANTS’ PERSPECTIVES ON RECEIVING RESULTS USING FOUND POETRY: A MIXED-METHODS STUDY
Authors: Bybee Sara , Eaton Jacqueline , Wong Bob 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Few researchers share study results with participants, often citing a lack of knowledge regarding how to do so. This study explored the dissemination preferences of study participants receiving results in the form of found poetry, developed from dyadic interviews with sexual and gender minority (SGM) and non-SGM couples’ regarding their experiences with cancer. Participants (N=24) completed demographic and health questionnaires, a pre-posttraumatic growth-inventory-expanded (PTGI-X), and were randomized to receive the found poem as text, text and audio, audio, or video formats. Participants completed a post-PTGI-X, reported dissemination preferences, and emotions experienced. Open-ended responses demonstrated that using found poetry to disseminate results communicated that participant experiences were understood, fostered introspection, and renewed appreciation for their partner. Only SGM participants (n=3) reported preferring a format other than the one to which they were randomized. The text-only and combined text and audio formats evoked the greatest number of emotions (n=13 each) followed by video (n=4), and audio-only (n=3). Across randomization groups, interest (n=11) was most frequently reported, followed by sadness (n=8), and joy (n=6). Quantitatively, there were no significant changes in participants’ PTG—a small sample size may have reduced statistical power—which might be seen as a failure. However, the open-ended responses indicate that innovative approaches to dissemination are acceptable and multiple options may increase accessibility. Only SGM participants preferred an alternate format, potentially reflecting a natural inclination to question the status quo. Including minority perspectives (positive/negative) illuminates the need to offer study participants choices in how and when they receive findings.
FROM FAILURE TO OPPORTUNITY IN QUEERING GERONTOLOGICAL CURRICULUM
Authors: Bouchard Lauren 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Institutes of higher education vary tremendously in their support of LGBTQ students, which can contribute to unequal educational opportunities and outcomes. The presence of LGBTQ people in education can be inherently divisive, with some states and educational institutions prohibiting the inclusion of LGBTQ-related topics in the curriculum. LGBTQ students who experience discrimination in the classroom and heterosexism in the curriculum may be less motivated to complete program requirements, resulting in lower completion rates. Attrition of these marginalized students can lead to fewer qualified gerontologists who reflect the increasing diversity of the aging population. Additionally, the gerontological curriculum within and across programs may fail to capture nuanced and diverse narratives of resilience and lived experiences due to dominant, heteronormative educational contexts and frameworks. Through the lens of the queer art of failure, the presenter utilizes autoethnography (e.g., analysis of past writing and personal communications) as a queer person in a non-affirming gerontology graduate program. They will discuss how institutional failure lead to enthusiasm for curriculum development, student mentoring, and queer knowledge dissemination. Key findings include the significance of institutional clarity on academic freedom, the necessity of institutional support, and the solidarity of LGBTQ students, faculty, and older adults. The presenter will conclude with their future research directions and strategies to support students and early-career scholars to overcome political, institutional, and what are often felt as personal failures.
A GOLD MINE OF TEXT TEXT MINING VERSUS MANUAL CODING METHODS REGARDING QUALITY OF CARE IN LONG-TERM CARE FOR OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Hacking Coen , Verbeek Hilde , Hamers Jan , Aarts Sil 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In long-term care for older adults, large amounts of text are collected that cover the quality of care, such as transcribed interviews, medical records, and text in electronic health records. Researchers currently analyze textual data manually to gain insights, which is a time-consuming process. Text mining (TM) could provide a solution, as this methodology can analyze large amounts of text automatically. Therefore, this study aims to compare TM to the gold standard of manual coding regarding sentiment analysis and thematic content analysis. Data was collected from interviews with residents (n=21), family (n=20) and care professionals (n=20). TM models were developed and compared to the manual approach. The results of the manual and TM approach were evaluated in three ways: accuracy, consistency and expert feedback. Accuracy showed how similar the approaches are. Consistency showed if an individual approach finds the same themes in similar text segments. Expert feedback was used to show the perceived correctness of the TM approach. The accuracy analysis showed that 81.8% of text segments receive the same sentiment code in both approaches and 83.7% of text segments receive the same thematic codes. Interviews coded by TM had a higher consistency compared to those coded manually. Expert feedback showed that the TM had a limited understanding of the context. However, it also showed certain inconsistencies of manual coding. The current study has shown that TM can be an effective tool for quickly and accurately identifying sentiment and thematic content in large amounts of textual data.
RELATIONSHIPS OF SOCIAL AND COGNITIVE ACTIVITY TO WELL-BEING AND COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING OVER TIME
Authors: Liao Hsiao-Wen , Chu Li , Carstensen Laura 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Research on engaged lifestyles points to promising ways to age well. Findings are mixed, however, when different types of social and cognitive activity engagement are examined. The present study, juxtaposing core tenets of socioemotional selectivity theory and the engagement hypothesis, tested the relative importance of social engagement with close partners and engaging in cognitively stimulating activities for older adults’ psychological well-being and cognitive performance over time. Of particular interest was the comparison between individuals with high levels of interaction with close social partners yet low levels of cognitive activity engagement and those with low levels of social engagement but high levels of cognitive activity engagement. The sample (N = 1607) was drawn from participants in the Health and Retirement Study who participated in the 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020 modules. Engagement profiles were created based on the frequency of contact with close social partners outside the household (i.e., children, family members, and friends) and engagement in cognitively stimulating activities (i.e., reading, writing, using computers, cooking, playing word games, and doing hobbies) at baseline. Results of growth curve modeling, controlling for demographic background and baseline performance, showed that, as predicted, older adults with high levels of social interactions and low levels of cognitive activity engagement had superior life satisfaction but poorer performance on delayed recall than their counterparts who had the opposite engagement profiles. We draw on the life-span principle that development involves gains and losses in interpreting the findings.
Late Breaking Biological Sciences Session
Authors: Rogina Blanka 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This is a key element specific to the Biological Sciences Section within the Gerontological Society of America annual scientific meeting that allows for very new and unpublished findings to be presented. Due to the rapid advancement of our knowledge, four speakers in this symposium are selected from the submitted late breaking Abstracts. Special emphasis is given to selecting early career faculty, postdoctoral fellows and graduate students.
EXAMINING A RANDOMLY ASSIGNED MUSIC PROGRAM ON STRESS AND WELLNESS: CARE PARTNERS OF OLDER ADULTS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Tompkins Catherine , Ihara Emily , Layman Shannon , Inoue Megumi , Gimm Gilbert 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
The Mason CARES study examined the effects of a randomly assigned personalized music intervention (Phase II) for care partners of older adults living with dementia after implementation of a 9-week virtual stress management program (Phase I) to reduce stress and increase well-being.

METHODS
A total of 99 care partners completed the 20-week study across three cohorts in 2022. Baseline data on care partner stress levels and well-being were collected before beginning a 9-week stress management program (Phase I). Care partners were randomly assigned to a 4-week music intervention treatment or control group before the next stage of the intervention (Phase II). Researchers assisted care partners with identifying their family member’s favorite music during early adulthood years. MP3 players loaded with the favorite music were mailed to treatment group members. Focus groups were conducted to explore the utilization of personalized music. RESULTS: Nearly half (49%) were spousal care partners, ranging from 35-85 years old with 80% having at least a 4-year college degree, and 62% having an income greater than $70,000. Using ANOVAs to analyze mean stress levels and well-being, no significant differences in stress and well-being were found between the treatment and control groups. CONCLUSION: Despite the lack of statistically significant findings, preliminary analysis of focus group interviews revealed that many care partners benefited from the personalized music intervention. Effectiveness may depend on other factors, such as familiarity with using the technology, past experiences with music, care partner’s baseline level of stress, and the older adult’s stage of dementia.
EXPLORING THE EVERYDAY EXPERIENCES OF FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA: A LONGITUDINAL DIARY STUDY
Authors: Seetharaman Kishore , Kervin Lucy , Basu Koushambhi , Baumbusch Jennifer 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
People living with dementia rely largely on the support of unpaid family caregivers to remain living at home in the community. The strain created by this dependence is evidenced by high rates of distress among caregivers of people living with dementia and underscores the importance of access to appropriate formal and informal supports for this group. Providing tailored and meaningful supports and services to families requires a good understanding of the multidimensional and dynamic nature of the caregiving experience. Our study employed longitudinal qualitative methodology to understand how caregivers of people living with dementia were experiencing progression of the disease and shifting support needs over a two year-period. Fourteen family caregivers in British Columbia, Canada, wrote monthly diaries reflecting on their experience of caregiving and navigating supports. Thematic analysis of 137 diary entries shed light on different facets of caregiving experience, including psychological and emotional challenges (e.g., feeling overwhelmed, lacking a sense of control, trouble maintaining sense of self) and difficulties navigating formal care and supports (e.g., lack of access to services and information, lack of flexibility in service delivery). However, accounts also reflected participants’ resilience, through a range of coping strategies adopted to resolve problems encountered in caregiving, drawing on emotional and practical support from family, friends, and community. The diaries offer critical perspectives on gaps and inadequacies in formal supports for family caregivers and opportunities to better support the health and wellness of caregivers and recipients through dementia care policy and practice.
LOSING PERSONHOOD: EXPERIENCES OF INDIVIDUALS CARING FOR A FAMILY MEMBER WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Carter Rachel , Norton Sally , Moskow Marian , Bobry Melanie , Van Orden Kimberly , Heffner Kathi , Wittink Marsha 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Over 11 million people in the United States are providing informal care for a person with dementia (PwD). When providing care, family caregivers for a PwD may find their own sense of personhood becomes lost, impacting their social connectedness. This qualitative study characterizes family caregivers’ social connection experiences, goals, barriers, and facilitators. We used a criterion-based purposeful sampling strategy to identify 30 family caregivers for PwD ages 50+ who were lonely (n=20) and not lonely (n=10) according to their UCLA loneliness scale short form scores (not lonely = &lt; 5 and lonely = ≥ 6). We recruited selected participants through the Healthy Aging Research Program (HARP) population study. We then conducted individual, semi-structured interviews with each participant and performed a content analysis on all transcribed interviews, utilizing preset codes based on a theoretical frame and developing novel codes until key themes were identified. Participants reported connections between social connectedness—loneliness, disconnection, and feelings of isolation—and the loss or diminishment of their own personhood. When asked about their past and present social activities, the ones caregivers identified as important allowed them to feel connected to others and to themselves, offering either or both: 1) the opportunity to relate to others in ways they could not relate to the PwD; 2) social and emotional engagement that reinforced their sense of personhood. When social activities did not offer either of these, caregivers experienced disconnection. Results indicate potential ways to intervene to mitigate loss of personhood and promote social connectedness in family caregivers.
DAILY SOCIAL RELATIONSHIP QUALITY, DAILY STRESS, AND SUBJECTIVE COGNITIVE DECLINE AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Jang Heejung , Mogle Jacqueline 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Although prior research has shown that social relationships are strongly associated with cognitive function, few studies have explored the link between the quality of daily relationships and subjective cognitive decline (SCD). The present study explores whether the quality of daily relationships is associated with daily stress and how daily stress mediates the relationship between the quality of daily relationships and SCD among older adults. This study uses data from 254 older adults aged 70 or older who completed the Einstein Aging Study. Multilevel mediation analyses were conducted to account for daily measurements nested within individuals. The cognitive change index was used to measure SCD. We tested the indirect effect of daily relationship quality on SCD through daily stress levels. There was a significant positive association between ambivalent (β=.148, p&lt;.001; β=.324, p&lt;.001) and neutral (β=.095, p&lt;.001; β=.297, p&lt;.001) relationships and daily stress levels at both the within- and between-person levels. Between-person daily stress was, in turn, associated with greater SCD (β= .169, p&lt;.05). In particular, there was a significant indirect path from ambivalent relationships to SCD through daily stress. This study contributes to a more detailed understanding of how relationship quality can impact cognition through increased exposure to daily stress. The quality of daily social relationships may be crucial to preserving older adults’ cognitive function.
BARRIERS AND FACILITATORS TO INTEGRATED SUBSTANCE USE AND HIV CARE: ADMINISTRATOR AND PROVIDER PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Bender Alexis , Chan Kiera , Hunt Riley , Perkins Molly 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Since the beginning of the HIV epidemic, HIV and substance use have been intricately connected. Substance use may cause additional damage to the brain, higher viral loads, low medication adherence, and higher AIDS-related deaths. A potential area to improve access to care and treatment for people aging with HIV and substance use is through integrated care. Yet little is known about the barriers and facilitators to integrated care, especially in practices serving vulnerable populations, such as older adults or PLWH in rural areas. We conducted in-depth interviews with 21 providers (e.g., Physicians, APPs, RNs) and 15 administrators (e.g., clinic managers, care coordinators) across Georgia between January 2021 and November 2022. Interviews explored perceptions about clinic integration and desire, or lack of desire, to increase integration. Data were analyzed using inductive and deductive thematic analysis guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Both groups perceived important benefits to integrated care, especially for older or more vulnerable populations, but the definitions varied across respondents. Providers and administrators agreed that integrated care provided greater access to care with less interruption to patients’ lives. Barriers to increasing integration included, but were not limited to, physical space, staffing and budgetary constraints, and limited opportunities for collaboration. Most providers, except those in practices with the highest levels of integration, experienced barriers to getting patients into adequate substance use treatment when needed. Integrated care is vital to treating older adults and vulnerable individuals living with HIV, especially those with co-occurring substance use disorders.