bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
BENEFITS AND BARRIERS OF COMMUNITY-ENGAGED RESEARCH AND STRATEGIES FOR STRENGTHENING PARTNERSHIP PRACTICE
Authors: Leach Carrie , Sneed Rodlescia , Perry Tam 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The meaningful engagement of older people in research may help to address their lag behind other groups in health outcomes and low participation in studies. This symposium addresses the critical gap in the aging literature and advances knowledge about community engagement by offering insight from experts on the complexities of partnership and engagement processes that vary by context as well as tools and tactics for overcoming obstacles. The first speaker will present findings and lessons gained from evaluating the needs of a self-organizing community advisory board of Black older adults to increase enrollment in a participant research pool. The second will focus on the challenges of centering a diverse range of partners in the design of a health and wellness program tailored to the needs of formerly incarcerated mid and late-life adults. The third speaker will provide recommendations for researchers interested in working with Indigenous communities and strategies for working collaboratively, and how to overcome relational challenges. The fourth speaker will present findings from a reflective evaluation process of a community-based participatory research partnership that evolved over seven years and discuss how the partnership evaluation tool can enhance partner practice. This symposium concludes with reflections about meaningful and authentic academic-community partnerships in line with supporting and building bridges between aspiring and existing community engaged scholars and older people who are experts on aging.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: DYNAMICS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO SUCCESSFUL AND SUSTAINED PARTNERSHIPS IN CBPR WITH OLDER PEOPLE
Authors: Leach Carrie 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Though community-engaged and participatory approaches are increasingly relied on in studies, the inclusion of older adults as co-learners is uncommon. To address this problem, we offer insight into the dynamics that contribute to successful partnerships between researchers and older residents who collaborated in a community based participatory research (CBPR) project in a Mid-western county. Using a CBPR logic model as a guiding framework, we reflected on our process and practices during our collaboration, with three community residents over the age of 65, that unfolded over the course of seven years. We will describe our approach and decisions made that shaped our partnership and present the findings from our reflective process evaluation with our partners, in their own words. We will discuss the utility of the CBPR model in guiding collective reflection as well as the lessons we learned and the dynamics that our partners identified as most salient in contributing to our successful and sustained partnership. We advocate for partnerships with older adults so that their voices are centered as experts on the experience of aging. Centering older adults as experts on the experience of aging in age-related research is one way to ensure that findings can be used to improve the lives of the oldest and most vulnerable members of our society, who stand to gain the most from research outcomes.
CARE PARTNERS’ ENGAGEMENT IN PREVENTING FALLS FOR COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Zhou Yuanjin , Berridge Clara , Hooyman Nancy , Phelan Elizabeth 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Care partners adopt various behaviors to manage fall risk for community-dwelling older people with dementia (cd-OPWD). It is unknown if these behaviors reduce falls for cd-OPWD at different levels of fall risk. We linked the data from the 2015 and 2016 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) and the 2015 National Study of Caregiving (NSOC) (cd-OPWD n=365, 89% aged 75+) to explore this question. The outcome was no fall, one fall, and multiple falls in 2016. We used the same variable in 2015 to indicate fall risk at baseline. We identified 28 items from NSOC to represent dementia care partners’ fall risk management (FRM) behaviors based on existing literature and expert review. Using exploratory factor analysis, we identified five categories of FRM behaviors: mobility and safety assistance, health management, accommodations, medical services coordination, and social services coordination. We performed multinomial logistic regression to investigate associations between care partners’ FRM behaviors in 2015 and cd-OPWD’ falls in 2016 stratified by cd-OPWD’s history of falls in 2015, adjusting for selected covariates. For cd-OPWD who had no fall in 2015, mobility and safety assistance was associated with a higher risk of having one fall in 2016; for those who had one fall in 2015, medical services coordination was associated with a lower risk of multiple falls; for those who had multiple falls in 2015, social services coordination was associated with a lower risk of multiple falls. Future research may target care partners’ different FRM behaviors based on cd-OPWD’s history of falls.
WORDS OF ADVICE FOR RESEARCHERS: A QUALITATIVE STUDY ON PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA’S EXPERIENCES IN RESEARCH
Authors: Kim Ha Neul , Hirsch Jen 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
People living with dementia are the focus of much research, but little is known about their research experiences and how they perceive the world of research. This qualitative study examined the motivations, experiences, and words of advice from people living with dementia regarding their research experiences including both social research and clinical trials. Semi-structured interviews were conducted individually with 7 people, each was interviewed twice for about an hour. Prior to the interview, participants were screened for decisional capacity using a modified UBACC (University of California, San Diego Brief Assessment of Capacity to Consent) to make sure of their understanding of the project. After participants passed the screen, they provided verbal consent. Thematic analysis was conducted to analyze interviews and draw out meaningful themes. Five primary themes emerged: 1) the importance of people living with dementia and their communities in research recruitment, 2) the need for diversity and inclusion in dementia research, 3) the need for a positive attitude of researchers, 4) motivation focused on making contributions and finding a cure for oneself, and 5) the need for balance between showing expertise and explaining with less jargon. The study indicates that there are improvements researchers can make in terms of inclusiveness, listening to people’s voices, and engaging people with lived experiences in the research design process, which inspires more participatory research in the dementia research field. This study was supported by the Corey Endowment Award; and the Research Scholars Award.
POLICY SERIES: STRATEGIES TO FRAME OUR PUBLIC POLICY WORK
Authors: D’Antonio Patricia , Schoen Julie , Albers Hannah 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Our words and the way we harness the power of them when advocating for age inclusive policies, like the Older Americans Act (OAA), matters. Since 1965 the OAA has supported our nation with funds to strengthen community social services. It currently authorizes a wide array of service programs through a national network of 56 state agencies on aging, 618 area agencies on aging, nearly 20,000 service providers, 281 Tribal organizations, and 1 Native Hawaiian organization representing 400 Tribes. In 2024, the OAA will be considered for reauthorization. We all have a stake in ensuring it is passed so we all have the infrastructure we require as we age. Join The National Center to Reframe Aging and the National Center on Elder Abuse, the leading organizations for effective framing, in this session to discuss the OAA as an example of how we can apply communication strategies in supporting reauthorization, review framing strategies to advance a more equitable story of aging in America and learn how to apply framing tools to your advocacy communications.
STRATEGIES TO FRAME OUR PUBLIC POLICY WORK
Authors: D’Antonio Patricia , Schoen Julie , Albers Hannah , Claproth Alycia 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Our words and the way we harness the power of them when advocating for age inclusive policies, like the Older Americans Act (OAA), matters. Since 1965 the OAA has supported our nation with funds to strengthen community social services. It currently authorizes a wide array of service programs through a national network of 56 state agencies on aging, 618 area agencies on aging, nearly 20,000 service providers, 281 Tribal organizations, and 1 Native Hawaiian organization representing 400 Tribes. In 2024, the OAA will be considered for reauthorization. We all have a stake in ensuring it is passed so we all have the infrastructure we require as we age. Join The National Center to Reframe Aging and the National Center on Elder Abuse, the leading organizations for effective framing, in this session to discuss the OAA as an example of how we can apply communication strategies in supporting reauthorization, review framing strategies to advance a more equitable story of aging in America and learn how to apply framing tools to your advocacy communications.
POLICY SERIES: POSITIVE EXPERIENCES OF AGING AND HEALTH: COMPLEMENTARY EVIDENCE FROM TWO STUDIES
Authors: Allen Julie Ober , Moïse Valerie , White C J , Solway Erica 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Social constructions of aging and associated treatment of older adults are predominantly negative (i.e., ageism) and believed to be harmful for health. Societal beliefs, expectations, and practices linked to old age may also be associated with benefits, such wisdom, respect, greater self-acceptance, more focus on family and chosen activities, and eligibility for age-specific privileges. Positive experiences of aging such as these have not been extensively researched. This study investigated the prevalence of positive experiences of aging and their relationships with health using data from two complementary studies: 5 items focused on positive experiences of aging in a nationally representative sample (2019 National Poll on Healthy Aging (NPHA); Mage=62.6, 54.2% female); and 23 items in a smaller exploratory study (2021-2022 Experiences of Aging in Society (EOA); Mage=71.1, 81.8% female). Associations with health were assessed using multivariable regression. Report of positive experiences of aging was common (NPHA: &gt;65% for all items; EOA: &gt;80% for 20). Most frequently endorsed were being treated with respect, value for one’s opinions, wanting to be a good example to younger people, greater acceptance of not work full time and spending time with family (all EOA), and feeling more comfortable with oneself (NPHA and EOA). Positive experiences of aging were associated with better health (NPHA: fewer chronic health conditions (p=.023) and reduced risk of low self-rated physical health, mental health, and depressive symptoms (p-values &lt;.001); EOA: fewer chronic health conditions (p=.004). Increasing positive experiences of aging may be a promising strategy for promoting older adult health and wellbeing.
INTEGRATING ANIMAL MODEL, HUMAN SUBJECTS, AND SOCIAL SYSTEMS IN NUTRITION AND AGING RESEARCH
Authors: Booth Sarah , Wang Haowei , Fielding Roger 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This symposium will bring together speakers who will present cutting-edge research on nutrition and aging from interdisciplinary perspectives using complementary methods. Nutrition plays an important role in understanding the biology of aging, promoting healthy aging, preventing age-related diseases, and supporting aging populations at risks. This symposium will present innovative studies using animal models, population surveys, and nutrition programs to inform future research and promote nutrition security and diet quality. Lee et al. examine sex-specific differences in gut homeostasis and host metabolism in female and male mice fed different rodent diets. Shea et al. and Ardisson Korat et al. focus on dietary quality and patterns in older populations. Using a novel network analysis, Shea et al. examine similarities and differences in the manner in which food groups are consumed in a nationally representative sample from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Ardisson Korat et al. utilize data from the Nurse’s Health Study and evaluate the long-term role of dietary carbohydrate quality in promoting healthy aging. Borth & Whitmire and El-Abbadi et al. investigate food insecurity and nutrition programs among older adults during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Using data from US Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey (April 2020 to December 2022), El-Abbadi et al. explore the differences in food insecurity by age-groups, gender, and race and ethnicity. Borth & Whitmire conduct research on congregate nutrition programs to identify successful practices of nutrition programs during the pandemic and discuss challenges and directions in future congregate nutrition programs. This is a Nutrition Interest Group Sponsored Symposium.
DIETARY CARBOHYDRATE QUALITY IN RELATION TO HEALTHY AGING IN WOMEN
Authors: Korat Andres Ardisson , Shea Kyla , Jacques Paul , Sebastiani Paola , Wang Molin , Willett Walter , Sun Qi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Our objective was to evaluate the role of dietary carbohydrate quality in healthy aging among women in the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS). We included 29,635 NHS participants aged &lt;60 years old in 1984. Total carbohydrate, refined carbohydrate, dietary glycemic index (GI), dietary fiber intake and carbohydrate from fruits, vegetables, whole and refined grains were derived from validated food-frequency questionnaires. Healthy aging was defined as being free from major chronic diseases, having good mental health, and not having any impairments in cognitive or physical function as assessed in the 2014 or 2016 participant questionnaires. We used multivariate logistic regression to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) for each carbohydrate exposure in relation to healthy aging. A total of 3,731 NHS participants met our criteria for healthy aging. Refined carbohydrate intake was associated with lower odds of healthy aging (ORs[95% CIs] per 5%-calorie increase: 0.94[0.90, 0.97]). Conversely, intakes of carbohydrates from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables were associated with 2% to 6% higher odds of healthy aging for every 1%-calorie increase. Additionally, intakes of total fiber, fruit fiber, vegetable fiber and cereal fiber were associated with 12% to 25% higher odds of healthy aging per 1%-calorie increment. Lastly, the dietary GI was associated with lower odds of healthy aging. In conclusion, intakes of high-quality carbohydrate from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dietary fiber in middle adulthood were favorably associated with healthy aging in a large cohort of women, whereas refined carbohydrate intake was unfavorably associated with healthy aging.
DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ACHIEVE SUCCESSFUL AGING HEALTH EDUCATION CONTROL INTERVENTION
Authors: Glynn Nancy , Gmelin Theresa 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Choice of comparison group was essential for participant recruitment and retention for the ACHIEVE Study and necessary to control for key components of the hearing intervention. The Successful Aging (SA) Health Education control intervention followed the protocol and materials developed for the 10 Keys to Healthy Aging (10Keys™), an evidence-based interactive health education program for older adults on topics relevant to chronic disease and disability prevention, previously implemented in other trials. The 10Keys contained up-to-date prevention guidelines based on the current recommendations from leading groups (e.g., United States Preventive Services Task Force, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). To control for general levels of staff and participant time and attention, participants randomized to the SA control met individually with a 10Keys certified health educator who administered the program every 1-3 weeks, totaling four visits over ∼2-3 months. To match the contact schedule with the hearing intervention and promote retention, participants returned for booster sessions semi-annually. During COVID-19 restrictions, we delivered booster sessions by phone. Individually tailored session content included a standardized didactic education component (a 10Keys module) as well as activities, goal-setting, and optional extracurricular enrichment. To further enhance retention and perceived benefit, each session also included a 5- to 10-minute upper body extremity stretching program. We offered the SA control participants the hearing intervention and vice versa at the trial conclusion. Monthly committee calls ensured fidelity and allowed for troubleshooting any participant-related issues. Audio recordings of sessions delivered by health educators were reviewed monthly for quality control.
PRISM CI: A SOFTWARE SYSTEM TO SUPPORT AGING ADULTS WITH A COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
Authors: Czaja Sara , Falzarano Francesca , Lucius-Milliman Darby , Ceruso Marco 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Maintaining social connections and engaging in activities can become challenging for aging adults with a cognitive impairment (CI), which can result in deleterious cognitive, emotional, and physical health outcomes. This presentation will discuss the PRISM-CI pilot trial, which aims to examine the feasibility and potential efficacy of the PRISM-CI software system on enhancing connectivity and quality of life among a diverse sample of 50 older adults aged 65 and over with a CI. PRISM-CI, adapted from the PRISM system (developed by the Center for Research and Education on Aging and Technology Enhancement) for this population, is intended to support social engagement, memory, and access to resources and information. The sample includes 42 community dwelling individuals aged 65+ (M= 75.5, SD=6.78) with a cognitive impairment. Participants had access to the system for 5 months. We will present data regarding training challenges encountered by our participants, such as the need for more personalized training, and perceptions of usability and the perceived value of the various PRISM-CI features as well as suggestions for improvements (e.g., streaming services such as Spotify, e-Library services). The challenges of implementing PRISM-CI during the COVID-19 pandemic will also be discussed. In addition, preliminary data regarding the impact of the use of PRISM-CI on social isolation and loneliness will be presented. Overall, the findings suggest that use of PRISM-CI was beneficial and enhanced social support and connectivity. We will also discuss how user feedback can be leveraged to inform adaptions to enhance the efficacy and acceptability of technology applications.
DEVELOPING CONTENT FOR A VIRTUAL SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT INTERVENTION FOR PERSONS WITH MCI
Authors: Rogers Wendy , Shende Shraddha , Jones Sarah , Mois George , Lydon Elizabeth , Mudar Raksha 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Older adults, especially those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), are at increasing risk of social isolation and loneliness, leading to poorer health outcomes. Video technology has the potential to provide socially and cognitively engaging activities from their homes. We are exploring the benefits of a virtual social engagement intervention in older adults with and without MCI (clinicaltrials.gov NCT05380180). We are using a video-technology called OneClick.chat to present participants with a short presentation followed by conversational breakout groups. One challenge for the intervention development was the selection of content that would be engaging but not too memory demanding and of interest to a broad range of people. We worked with iN2L to design 60 unique events that met predefined criteria: could facilitate conversations, did not rely on episodic memory, covered a range of topics, and reflected a diversity of individuals, identities, cultures, and interests. Events were categorized into five predefined categories: Arts & Culture; Nature, Health, & Wellness; Life Experiences; Science & Technology; and Recreation & Sports. We carefully curated each event to ensure consistency of presentation length, picture type, readability, visibility, number of slides, and audio quality. Presentation format was carefully tested through multiple iterations to ensure the best participant experience. Conversational prompts were designed for each event to stimulate engaging conversations through open-ended questions. During the trial we are gathering data on participants’ preferences for different topics that can guide future iterations. Our systematic process of development can guide content design for research on social engagement interventions.
INVESTIGATING THE CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR EFFECTS OF AGING ON FAT TISSUE IN DROSOPHILA MELANOGASTER
Authors: Bell Justice , Williams Isaiah , Bradshaw Tancia , Armstrong Alissa 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Adipose tissue, also known as fat tissue, is an energy reservoir responsible for metabolic homeostasis. Changes in adipocytes during aging have been associated with obesity, insulin resistance, type two diabetes, and cancer. Thus, in response to the obesity epidemic and the United States aging population, the goal of this experiment is to understand the cellular and molecular effects of aging on adipocytes. In doing so, drosophila were aged at 5,10,15, and 20 days and dissected for adipose tissue. We analyzed adipocyte size, lipid droplet composition, and immune response pathway activity. In this experiment we used the immunostaining process to visualize adipocytes across all ages. Cellular and nuclear size were quantified using ImageJ software. Immune response pathways were examined using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and gel electrophoresis. Expression of antimicrobial peptides were measured and analyzed against a control, RP49. Our results revealed a positive correlation between fly age, adipocyte and nuclear size. Thus, we can associate aging with increased adipocyte size. Various trends in AMP expression were observed; we have contributed this to the variation in function of each AMP. Further directions include characterizing the effect of aging on AMP expression and examining the relationship between adipocyte size and AMP expression in aging.
AGE-FRIENDLY CITIES AND COMMUNITIES: RESEARCH ON LOCAL PRACTICE TO STRENGTHEN THE MOVEMENT’S FUTURE
Authors: Greenfield Emily , Pope Natalie , Pestine-Stevens Althea 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The age-friendly cities and communities (AFCC) movement has accelerated a major paradigmatic shift for the field of aging in the 21st century. Launched and spurred by high-profile government agencies and organizations across the globe, this ambitious movement highlights the transformative potential of deliberate, cross-sectoral efforts to improve built, social, and service environments of localities in response to population aging. This presentation will provide a brief overview of the development of a global program of policy and practice on AFCCs, with an emphasis on its emergence in the United States. It will then present insights regarding challenges and opportunities for the future based on findings from an ongoing, longitudinal study of a regional network of AFCC initiatives. The study, designed as a developmental evaluation, explores the perspectives of on-the-ground AFCC leaders on their practice as part of a private philanthropic grantmaking initiative to spur AFCCs in New Jersey. Reflecting on our years of engaged research with this network, the presentation will highlight issues concerning multi-level systems alignment, the promises and pitfalls of public sector leadership, the need for additional practice theories, and greater incorporation of considerations of aging equity and racial justice. The presentation will demonstrate the importance of continuing to leverage the strengths of community-engaged research to better ensure the movement’s relevance, reach, and equitable impact across diverse community, organizational, and broader systems contexts.