bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SUPPORTING CHINESE FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF RELATIVES WITH DEMENTIA——A PILOT INTERVENTION STUDY IN SHANGHAI
Authors: Liu Ethan , Zhang Xinyu , Huang Jiahui , Ayrat Ansar , An Qiuling , Sun Fei , Zhang Xuehan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
Effective interventions are urgently needed to assist dementia family caregivers in China, where limited formal support and services are available. This pilot study aims to test a psychoeducational program that consists of information, skills training, and the use of binaural sound through the Processing Inner Strength toward Actualization Therapy (PISTA) device to alleviate caregiver burden and improve mental health outcomes.

Methods
Single subject design approach was used. Eight dementia family caregivers in Shanghai, China, were recruited and received a two-stage intervention over 12 weeks: Stage 1 (S1, Six 90-minute weekly sessions: Psychosocial education programs +PISTA) and Stage 2 (S2, Six 90-minute weekly sessions: Psychosocial education only). Caregiver outcomes, including caregiving burden, anxiety, depression, and positive aspects of caregiving (PAC), were assessed through established scales. Paired t-tests and visual analyses were used to compare outcome levels and trends between stages.

Results
Seven participants completed the entire study, and 1 participant dropped out during S2. Participants showed a decrease in caregiver burden, anxiety, and depression and an increase in PAC during S1. A similar trend was observed during S2 on burden, anxiety, and PAC outcomes, except for depression. Furthermore, the decrease in burden and anxiety scores and the increase in PAC scores were less salient during S2 than during S1, suggesting more effects were observed in S1 with PISTA.

Conclusion
Evidence is promising that psychoeducational programs combined with PISTA can lead to better psychological outcomes for dementia family caregivers. Findings need to be affirmed in future investigations using an experimental design.
SURVEYING ADULTS’ DESIRE TO KNOW AND PAY FOR A TEST OF DEMENTIA RISK
Authors: Reed Alexandra , Hooyman Andrew , Fauth Elizabeth , Love Jill , Schaefer Sydney 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Advances in biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other dementias are promising, but it is also important to characterize the general public’s desire for such biomarkers. It is also important to disentangle the desire to know test results from the desire to disclose the test results with a medical provider/insurance provider. This is particularly important for populations who are at higher risk of developing dementia but who either do not regularly engage with the medical system or who are skeptical of it. The purpose of this study was to survey adults’ desire to know about their short-term risk of developing dementia, and the factors that impact their desire to know. A survey of 326 participants (mean+SD age: 41.9 + 11.9 yrs; 76% White non-Hispanic; 48% F) was completed via Amazon MTurk. Results indicated that 75% of participants would take such a test, but only 12% of them would want their medical/insurance provider to know. Non-White participants (n=73) also reported less desire to share knowledge with a medical/insurance provider, but still wanted to know their risk as much as White participants. Furthermore, the out-of-pocket price that participants were willing to pay for such a test was $100. These data suggest that a diverse set of biomarkers needs to be developed that would enable affordable screening within and outside of a medical context.
SUSTAINABILITY OF CARE COORDINATION FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA WHO LIVE ALONE: LESSONS FROM A FEDERAL GRANT PROGRAM
Authors: Kim Yoon Chung , Lepore Michael , Gordon Kate , Menne Heather 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Approximately one-third of older adults with dementia or cognitive impairment in the US live alone. People living alone with dementia (PLAWD) are at high risk for undesirable outcomes including malnutrition and falls, and the absence of cohabitants—who typically coordinate care—can contribute to unnecessary hospitalization and institutionalization. Since 2014, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) within the US Department of Health and Human Services has required PLAWD-focused services in ACL’s Alzheimer’s Disease Program Initiative. As part of a larger study of PLAWD-focused service sustainability, we examined ACL project final reports (n=73) to describe care coordination services for PLAWD and their sustainability plans. We excluded projects without services for PLAWD (n=14) or care coordination services (n=29) and where the lead organization closed (n=2) or project director died (n=1). Of 27 project reports indicating PLAWD-focused services and care coordination services, most were community-based organizations (CBOs, 67%); others were health systems/medical centers (15%), universities (11%), and government agencies (7%). PLAWD-focused care coordination services commonly entailed identifying PLAWD, assessing their needs, developing care plans, connecting PLAWD to need-relevant services, and purchasing supportive equipment, and sometimes involved training volunteers. Most organizations (70%) planned to sustain PLAWD services. The primary sustainability barrier faced by CBOs was lack of funding, whereas for health systems and universities partnering with CBOs was key to sustainability. This review of ACL-supported care coordination services for PLAWD and their sustainability highlights the need for research on the effectiveness of care coordination services for PLAWD and of different approaches to service sustainability.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF REHABILITATION IN SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES FOR PERSONS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Frechman Erica , Semelka Charles , Freeman Valerie 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
We conducted a systematic review of published literature though April 2023 to identify the experiences and outcomes of persons living with dementia (PLWD) undergoing post-acute care rehabilitation in skilled nursing facilities (SNF). A systematic search for studies published in English was carried out in eight databases including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Two reviewers independently screened articles and conducted a quality appraisal of selected studies. Forty-one articles met inclusion criteria. There was heterogeneity of study designs with most articles (n=33) being observational and cross-sectional, while randomized clinical trials (n=3) and qualitative studies (n=5) were less represented. Certain themes emerged from the results regarding patient outcomes and experiences. Measured outcomes demonstrated increased health service utilization, varied functional outcomes, and suboptimal patient care. Patient experiences included significant challenges with health care transitions, gaps in healthcare worker and caregiver knowledge & education, emphasis on alternate models of care, and importance of goal alignment. Overall, this systematic review provides a comprehensive understanding of the outcomes and experiences of post-acute care rehabilitation in SNFs for PLWD. The findings highlight the need for alternative care pathways, improved healthcare transitions, tailored rehabilitation approaches, enhanced dementia training for healthcare professionals, and person-centered goal setting. By addressing these critical aspects, future interventions can be developed to improve the delivery of post-acute care for PLWD and enhance their health outcomes.
TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAMWORK: CHANGES IN INTERPROFESSIONAL READINESS
Authors: Rhodes Ann , Zimmerman Kristin , Marrs Sarah , Waters Leland 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Creating Interprofessional Readiness for Complex & Aging Adults (CIRCAA) is an evidence-based program grounded in the 4Ms of age-friendly care. CIRCAA aims to improve care for older adults by enhancing Scholars’ ability to affect patients, learners, and team members by emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration in person-centered care. Among other assessments, Scholars assess their interprofessional skills using the interprofessional education competency (IPEC) tool at the beginning and end of the year-long program. Evaluation data from all four CIRCAA cohorts (2020-2023; n = 22) demonstrated significant improvement in interprofessional readiness; t(34) = -4.72, p &lt; .001. The sample across years was well-balanced; there were no significant differences in size of cohort {F(1) = 0.516, p = .47}, race {F(3) = 0.62, p = .6}, or discipline and clinical practice of Scholars {F(1) = 0.33, p = 0.56}. There was a significant difference in knowledge gained based on years of experience working with older adults {F(4,26) = 3.308, p = .025}; those who had worked with older adults for less than five years made the largest gains. Scholars working in primary care settings had larger knowledge gains than Scholars who did not work in primary care, with gains of 4.95 points and 7.87 points, respectively. This difference was not statistically significant; t(16.3) = 1.14, p = 0.2, 95% CI [-2.49-8.32]. Overall, assessment of outcomes across the four years shows substantial gains in interprofessionalism, which are particularly pronounced in new clinicians and those working in primary care settings.
TESTING OF A WEB-BASED DECISION AID TOOL FOR DEMENTIA CARE PLANNING AMONG CHINESE AMERICAN FAMILY CAREGIVERS
Authors: Li Chien-Ching , Lei Xiao Ying , Paun Olimpia 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In the US, the Chinese American population is aging rapidly. It is anticipated that Chinese American family caregivers of loved ones living with dementia will face increasing needs for health care planning. The study aimed to examine the usability and acceptability of a linguistically and culturally appropriate and wen-based decision aid (DA) tool for home care and long-term care planning among Chinese American family caregivers. The DA tool provides caregivers with information on (1) dementia stages, behaviors, symptoms, and care tips, (2) home care and long-term care choices, and their benefits and risks, (3) what matters to you when making care decisions, (4) what else do you need to make your decision, and (5) a summary to facilitating decision making with family and providers. A total of 16 family caregivers were recruited in the study. About 88% of study participants were very satisfied with the DA tool. Key feedback reported by the majority of participants includes: (1) the length and amount of information presented in the tool was just right, (2) this tool can provide sufficient information to make appropriate care decisions for loved ones with dementia., (3) the tool is easy to use and most people would learn to use this tool very quickly, (4) various functions in this tool are well integrated, and (5) I will frequently use this tool to help me discuss dementia care plans and decisions with family and providers. Further intervention with the DA tool can be developed within the Chinese population.
THE 4MS AGE-FRIENDLY FRAMEWORK PROVES SUCCESSFUL TO ENHANCING A CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT TRAINING PROGRAM
Authors: Bearden Valerie , McAtee Robin 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The Arkansas Geriatric Education Collaborative, a HRSA-funded Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program grantee, partnered with a local Certified Nursing Assistant training program to develop a curriculum utilizing the 4Ms Framework of Age-Friendly Care of older adults. The curriculum was designed to empower CNA students and other direct care staff with knowledge of how to deliver more effective, person-centered care. This was accomplished by synthesizing current content with each of the 4Ms: What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility. During the introduction to person-centered care, strategies infused included instruction about how to have meaningful conversations about What Matters to the older adult. For Mobility, instruction was provided regarding safety and the use of adaptive equipment. Mentation was addressed by teaching the students ways to prevent and identify conditions such as depression and delirium. To include the “M” of medication, the students were taught about using non-pharmacological strategies for conditions such as insomnia and pain. The way all elements are intertwined and can interfere with What Matters was emphasized and examples provided. Of the 34 CNA students trained, 100% of students achieved both objectives during a clinical experience. Improvement of care was identified by a student as recognizing how to calm a frightened resident by using validation therapy. Another student reported the strategy of providing a bed bath in lieu of a shower to a resident who was unsteady because of a pain medication. Program development was completed in April, 2023, at which time it was put into practice and evaluated.
THE DUAL IMPACT OF EDUCATION AND OCCUPATION ON COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING IN OLDER MEXICAN ADULTS
Authors: Castro Jose Cabrero , Gutierrez Mariela , Andrasfay Theresa , Vega Emma Aguila , Downer Brian 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Our research investigates the relationships among educational attainment, occupational mental demands, and cognitive functioning in Mexican adults aged 50 and older. We expand on prior studies demonstrating education’s link to cognitive function by examining how the complexity of one’s primary occupation also influences cognitive health. We hypothesize that cognitively demanding work, irrespective of education level, correlates positively with enhanced cognitive performance. Furthermore, we propose an additive effect, wherein high occupational mental demands amplify cognitive functioning beyond education’s influence. Our study uses data from 12,939 participants in the 2012 Mexican Health and Aging Study (MHAS) linked to an occupational database (Occupational Information Network O*NET). Employing generalized linear models to predict a summary cognition score, the findings unveil compelling insights. Both mental processes (β=0.17) and cognitive abilities (β=0.16) required in participants’ main occupations demonstrate positive correlations with cognitive scores (p&lt;.01). Education emerges as a predictor of cognitive performance and had a stronger relationship with cognitive functioning compared to occupational mental demands (β=0.79, p&lt;.01), highlighting the long-lasting effects of education in cognition emphasizing its role in shaping cognitive abilities throughout life. Adjusting for demographic and health factors reaffirms these associations. Moreover, our research introduces an innovative approach by creating an additive score for education and occupational mental demands. Our results reveal that the combined impact of education and mental demands is associated with higher cognitive scores (β=0.97, p&lt;.01). In conclusion, our study presents a novel perspective by demonstrating that a combination of education and occupational mental demands may yield amplified cognitive benefits.
THE EARLY LIFE CONTEXTS OF THE HEALTH AND RETIREMENT STUDY HCAP SAMPLE: NEW INSIGHTS INTO DEMENTIA RISK FACTORS
Authors: Smith Jacqui , Larkina Marina , Yu Wenshan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
There’s increasing interest in identifying potentially modifiable early-life socioenvironmental factors associated with late-life cognitive decline and dementia. To date, much research points to the importance of the number of years spent in education and age. We sought to extend evidence for potential modifiable targets by examining life history data available to date for women and men in the 2016 HRS-HCAP sample (N = 2645; Mean Age = 76; 61% women). The life history data were drawn from three HRS public cross-wave files: the 2015-2017 Life History Mail Surveys, the 1992-2018 Childhood Family and Childhood Health file, and the 1992-2020 Geographical Mobility File. Among the early factors examined were the US Census region of birth and school location at age 10; childhood physical and mental health conditions; childhood family SES; early learning and sensory/motor problems, early life activity engagement (cognitive, physical, social), college majors, and post-education work. The HRS-HCAP algorithm classifications (Dementia, MCI, vs Normal Cognition) served as outcomes. In addition to quantity of education and age/cohort, significant effects (all ps &lt; .001) were revealed for childhood geographical locations, childhood mental health, and early-life access to and engagement in enriching activities. Over time, whereas the impact of changes such as increased access to post-secondary education and enriching high school activities are observed, other modifiable factors emerge. Tracking the impacts on cognitive aging of historical changes and disparities in the life course contexts of people in the HRS-HCAP subsample opens a new window into relevant social-environmental factors to target for intervention
THE EFFECT OF THE JIGSAWDIO PROGRAM ON COGNITION AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Kim Yongseop , Young Amy , Lee Jungjoo , Welsh-Bohmer Kathleen , Ory Marcia , Kim Junhyoung 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Puzzle activities in dementia patients have been associated with improvements in mood and cognition across a number of studies. Our research team designed and developed Jigsawdio, a digital technology that provides an innovative and interactive multisensory solution which supports memory recall in patients with dementia through the completion of personalized, audio-visual jigsaw puzzles. This device builds on the benefits derived from traditional puzzles by integrating salient audiovisual stimuli aimed at evoking nostalgia and encouraging reminiscence. The purpose of this study was to assess pre- and post-intervention effects of Jigsawdio use after six weeks among older adults with mild to moderate cognitive impairment. Using a single arm, twice weekly intervention, nine persons participated in the Jigsawdio program study. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was used to measure changes in cognitive function and recall on the first and last days of the intervention. A paired t-test was used to investigate the group mean differences in cognition before and after participation in the intervention program. We found a significant group mean difference between the post-assessment and the baseline assessment MoCA scores of participants. This study presents suggestive evidence of cognitive benefits and feasibility of the technology in older adults with dementia.
THE EXPERIENCES OF OLDER ADULTS IN HAITI AND THE UNITED STATES AT THE ONSET OF COVID-19
Authors: Blackman Laurie , Krase Kathryn , Wang Donna 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
From the early onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a disproportionate risk and impact of the disease on older adults and communities of color. This article explores the differences in experiences of older Haitian and older US adults at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since wealth creates accessibility to needed resources, including the best healthcare and support services, the disproportionate risk and impact of COVID-19 on older adults required a focused look at how older adults in vulnerable countries such as Haiti faired when compared to older adults in the United States. Using data collected from a sample of 240 Haitian older adults in August 2020 and 204 US older adults in June 2020, the findings indicated that Haitian older adults experienced more significant psychological, financial, and emotional distress due to the COVID-19 outbreak than their US older adult counterparts. The results of this study revealed the challenges that older adults faced at the onset of the pandemic, which was more pronounced in developing countries. However, the surge in violence in Haiti in the first quarter of 2023 killed more people than the COVID-19 outbreak. This research provides important insight for developing and framing policies and interventions that are not modeled on the measures taken elsewhere but adapted to a country’s reality and the population’s actual needs.
THE UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS OF “FAMILIES OF CHOICE” AND BIOLOGICAL FAMILIES OF LGBT ADULTS
Authors: Cohn-Schwartz Ella , Gooldin Sigal , Bachner Yaacov 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This study joins a growing body of research on the unique families of aging individuals in sexual minorities. We explore the “families of choice” (who are close enough to be considered as family) and biological families of LGBT adults and their associations with mental health. Data for this study was collected via an online survey with self-identified lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender (LGBT) adults aged 50+ in Israel (n=483). The participants were asked about characteristics of the relationship with their families of choice and biological families and about experiencing depressive symptoms. Descriptive results indicated that most participants had a family of choice, numbering five people on average. These families of choice were mostly composed of partners and friends, but also of the family members of one’s partner, and of ex-partners and colleagues. They reported having about four close biological family members, mostly children, parents, siblings, and nieces. Several differences emerged when comparing the two types of families: The relationships with biological families were more stable and their biological family members were contacted more often. On the other hand, families of choice were more likely to accept their sexual orientation and the relationship with them had fewer negative aspects. Regression analyses showed that individuals had more depressive symptoms if the relationship with their families of choice was less stable and if there were more negative relationships with both types of families. These findings shed light on the unique sources of support among LGBT adults and their associations with mental health.
TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR-Α, INTERLUKIN-6, AND VISFATIN LEVELS IN OLDER PATIENTS WITH MALNUTRITION
Authors: Huang Hsien-Hao 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Introduction
Proinflammatory cytokine is associated with malnutrition status. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were pro-inflammatory cytokines stimulated by nutritional deficiency. Visfatin is an adipokine with a strong correlation with inflammation. The relationships of TNF-α, IL-6 and visfatin are not consistent, and no study have investigated them in the older patients with malnutrition.

Methods
This prospective study included patients aged ≥ 75 years at the emergency department and all patients underwent Mini-Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF) and blood tests for fasting plasma TNF-α, IL-6 and visfatin levels.

Results
We enrolled 106 older patients with a mean age of 87.3 years, including 43 (40.5%) patients in at risk of malnutrition group (MNA-SF between 8 to 11), 24 (22.6%) patients in the malnutrition group (MNA-SF &lt; 8), and 39 (36.7%) patients in normal group. Compared to the normal group, both at risk of malnutrition and malnutrition group had significantly lower Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Furthermore, TNF-α was significantly higher in at risk of malnutrition group. In contrast, IL-6 was significantly higher in malnutrition group. Visfatin levels was not correlated to the malnutrition status. Both TNF-α and IL-6 negatively correlated with Barthel index and MMSE. Backward and stepwise multiple logistic regression analyses showed that the independent predictor for both at risk of malnutrition and malnutrition was MMSE.

Conclusion
The nutrition deficit status was correlated with proinflammatory cytokines, serum TNF-α and IL-6. The independent predictor of both at risk of malnutrition and malnutrition group was MMSE in older patients.