bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
EXPLAINING THE RACIAL AND ETHNIC DIFFERENCES IN ADL DISABILITY AMONG OLDER ADULTS: A POLYSOCIAL SCORE APPROACH
Authors: Wu Chenkai , Tang Junhan 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Disability in activities of daily life (ADL) is prevalent among older Americans. Racial and ethnic disparities in functional ability in old age continue to be a public health concern. We examined whether social environment, measured in a comprehensive way (polysocial score approach), could modify the racial and ethnic differences in ADL disability. Data are from the Health and Retirement Study; 5,925 older adults initially free of disability were included. Six ADLs were considered: bathing, eating, using the toilet, dressing, walking across the room, and getting in/out of bed. We included 24 social factors from five categories (economic stability, neighborhood environment, education, community/social context, and healthcare system) and used forward stepwise regression to screen for important ones. Polysocial score was created using 13 social factors and was classified as low (0-19), intermediate (20-30), and high (31+). We used the multivariable Poisson regression to estimate the risk of incident disability by three polysocial score categories and evaluate the interaction between race/ethnicity (non-Hispanic Whites and Others) and the polysocial score. A higher polysocial score is associated with a lower disability risk among non-Hispanic Whites and Others. We found an additive interaction between race/ethnicity and polysocial score categories. In the low polysocial score group, non-Hispanic Whites had a 4.7% lower risk of disability than the Others, while the difference significantly reduced to 2.4% and 2.6% in the intermediate and high polysocial score group, respectively. The polysocial score approach offers a new opportunity to explain the racial/ethnic disparities in functional capacity among older adults.
PRESIDENTIAL SYMPOSIUM: NUTRITION, METABOLISM, AND AGING
Authors: Anderson Rozalyn 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Aging is associated with increased risk for a host of non-communicable diseases and disorders including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegeneration. Although the underlying basis for this shared risk as a function of aging is not known, numerous diseases of aging have an established metabolic component. Data from preclinical and basic research indicate that the pace of aging is malleable, and studies in short-lived species have shown the ability of genetic and nutritional interventions to not only positively impact longevity but also to prolong health into older age. This symposium, “Nutrition, Metabolism, & Aging”, features internationally renowned aging research scientists whose work focuses on how nutrition and metabolism intersect with aging biology. We will hear from John Speakman from the University of Aberdeen who will present his research on “Metabolism and Extended Longevity”; Leanne Redman from the Pennington Biomedical Research Center whose work in humans will be described in her talk on “Dietary Interventions for Healthy Aging”; Holly Brown-Borg from University of North Dakota will discuss endocrine modulation of aging in her talk “Somatotropic Signaling in Health and Longevity”; and Valter Longo from the University of Southern California who will discuss the latest findings from his research in mice and humans in his talk “Periodic Fasting in Aging and Disease". Attendees will learn about nutrition and metabolism and how these cues are interwoven to regulate aging, impact health, and enhance longevity.
PERIODIC FASTING MIMICKING DIET, LONGEVITY, AND DISEASE
Authors: Longo Valter 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Chronic dietary interventions have been known for decades to help prevent disease and extend longevity, yet most are difficult to adopt especially long-term. Brief periods of a diet that mimics fasting by regulating key starvation response genes including IGF-1, TOR-S6K and PKA lasting between 4 and 7 days and followed by long periods on a normal diet, are emerging as potentially effective pro-longevity interventions. These periodic fasting mimicking diets (FMD) provide low calories, sugars, and proteins and high levels of unsaturated fats. In mice, 4 day bi-monthly cycles of the FMD started at middle age extend longevity, reduce tumors by nearly 50%, reduce inflammatory diseases and increase cognitive performance at old ages. In humans, 3 monthly cycles of a 5 day FMD reduce markers or risk factors for aging, diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease including cholesterol, blood pressure, CRP, IGF-1, and fasting glucose, particularly in subjects with elevated levels of these markers at baseline. Here I will present our most recent mouse and clinical studies indicating that FMDs can help reverse insulin resistance, reduce risk factors/markers of aging and age-related diseases, and lower biological age.
MEASURING RESILIENCE ACROSS THE LIFE COURSE: FINDINGS FROM HRS AND ADD HEALTH
Authors: Taylor Miles , Bruefach Tyler , Carr Dawn 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The study and measurement of psychological resilience (PR) is increasingly of interest to interdisciplinary audiences focused on successful aging across the life course. Though existing nationally representative datasets have not directly measured PR previously, recent advances have produced two novel measures showing promise among older and younger adults, respectively. We examine whether these measures capture similar internalized resources and if they effectively measure PR across race/ethnicity, gender, SES, and age. Analyses use two PR measures: the Simplified Resilience Scale (SRS) created in the 2006/8 Health and Retirement Study (N=14,064), and the Add Health Resilience Scale (AHRS) created in Wave 4 (2008) of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (N=4,936). Both scales reflect Wagnild and Young’s (1993) conceptualization of PR as an internalized, multidimensional psychological resource that is protective for health and wellbeing. Confirmatory Factor Analyses suggest that both measures capture a single construct of PR well, on average (one-factor structure; CFI &gt;.95, RMSEA &lt;.06). These measures also perform similarly across social groups; we observed configural, metric, and at least partial scalar invariance across race/ethnicity, gender, education, and age. Assessing the validity of these measures across diverse US populations at various life stages is critical to understanding how PR shapes aging processes over the life course, and for promoting successful aging throughout mid and later life. Future research can advance understanding of PR and its measurement by leveraging intersectional combinations of social statuses including race/ethnicity, gender, education, and age.
RESILIENCE AND MULTIFACTORIAL STRESSORS AMONG OLDER ADULTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A QUALITATIVE STUDY
Authors: Hladek Melissa , Wilson Deborah , Shofner Sabrina , Gross Alden , Bandeen-Roche Karen , Schoenborn Nancy 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic represents a complex stressor that is experienced differently across individuals and age strata. The present study explored perceptions and experiences of older adults within the domains of health, social interactions, finances and care of existing chronic medical conditions; and strategies used to cope with these stressors. We recruited 30 people (mean age 81.4 years) stratified by frailty status to complete semi-structured interviews about what changes to the above domains had occurred and what coping strategies were utilized. Using inductive and deductive coding techniques, thematic analysis revealed three overarching themes. The first was Pandemic Experience, which was perceived as stressful, especially in the domains of social isolation from friends and family and concern for others’ well-being. The second domain was Resilience where participants reported highly adaptable and creative ways to connect with others and viewed the pandemic from a lens of lifetime experience, which acted as a stress buffer. The third theme was Silver Linings where participants reported unexpected renewal like reconnecting with family and friends in more meaningful ways and reconnecting with nature. We found no meaningful distinction in experience by frailty status and explore reasons for this. Policy implications including internet access and training and societal aging biases are discussed in the context of aging and coping theories.
RESILIENCY AMONG WHI WOMEN IN THE 80+ COHORT BY RACE AND NEIGHBORHOOD SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS
Authors: Krok-Schoen Jessica , Naughton Michelle , Cene Crystal , Shadyab Aladdin , Springfield Sparkle , Nolan Timiya , Felix Ashley , Jackson Rebecca 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Resilience, an individual’s ability to successfully adapt to adversity, is a multifaceted outcome that may be affected by individual and community factors. A comprehensive examination of resilience by race and neighborhood socioeconomic status (NSES) among women aged 80+ is needed to better understand longevity in diverse populations. Women aged 80+ in 2011, in the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study were included. Resilience was measured using the 3-item Brief Resilience Scale, with higher scores indicating better resiliency. Descriptive statistics and multivariable linear regression examined the association of demographic, psychosocial, and health variables with resilience by race (White, Black, Asian) and NSES. The majority of participants (n=29,367, median age=84.0) were non-Hispanic White (91.4%), and had multimorbidities (66%). There were no significant differences by race on mean resiliency scores (p=0.06). Mean resilience was higher among women with higher NSES (low NSES=3.94±0.83, moderate NSES=3.95±0.82, high NSES=4.00±0.81; p&lt; 0.001). Optimism (p&lt; 0.001), social support (p&lt; 0.01), and physical/mental symptom burden (p&lt; 0.05) were significant correlates of resilience among Asian, Black, and White women. Self-rated health (p&lt; 0.001), depressive symptoms (p&lt; 0.001), optimism (p&lt; 0.001), social support (p&lt; 0.001), physical/mental symptom burden (p&lt; 0.001), and body mass index (p&lt; 0.001) were significant correlates of resilience across women with low, moderate, and high NSES. Age was significantly associated with resilience among women with moderate (β=-0.004, p=0.019) and high NSES (β=-0.005, p=0.045). This study found several common correlates of resilience across race and NSES among women aged 80+ in the WHI. Future research to enhance resilience, such as through psychosocial and behavioral interventions, is warranted.
ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS OF THE LONG-TERM CARE WORKFORCE IN RURAL AND NORTHERN AREAS
Authors: Freeman Shannon , Banner Davina , Chew Hui Jun , Klassen-Ross Tammy , Jackson Piper 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
There is growing recognition that the mental health and wellbeing of the LTCF workforce have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Therefore, we sought to describe the experiences and challenges LTCF employees faced during COVID-19 in rural and northern communities and highlight factors affecting their ability to be resilient and provide high quality care. We conducted 53 qualitative interviews using zoom with LTCF care providers (care aides, nurses, social workers), staff (food service workers, recreation providers), and management between November 2021 and February 2021. Data was transcribed and thematic analysis undertaken. We will describe participants experiences stratified by LTCF employee type and highlight similarities and differences in participants experiences across geography and facility type (freestanding vs. co-located in hospital) and describe factors affecting well-being, job satisfaction, and retention. We will share an inventory of programs and strategies participants found useful to mitigate negative effects on their mental health and well-being.
CANNABIS USE AND RISK OF FALLING IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Rudroff Thorsten 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The prevalence of cannabis use has significantly increased among US adults ≥ 50 years. However, the effect of chronic cannabis use on fall risk in older adults is unclear. A series of investigations were conducted to examine the intersection between cannabis use and fall risk in older adults. The findings indicated that: 1) Older (≥ 50 years) chronic cannabis users have a higher fall risk and walking impairments, 2) cannabis users might have a discrepancy between perceptual and physiological fall risk, and 3) chronic use of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) might have negative influences on inhibitory control and brain activity. Future mechanistic (e.g., neuroimaging) investigations of the short- and long-term effects a variety of cannabis products (e.g., THC/CBD ratios, routes of administration) on cognitive/motor function, and fall incidence in older adults are suggested.
CAREGIVER STRAIN AMONG AFRICAN AMERICAN AND HISPANIC MALE CAREGIVERS WITH CHRONIC CONDITIONS
Authors: Smith Matthew , Kew Chung Lin , Washington Tiffany , Bergeron Caroline , Merianos Ashley , Sherman Ledric , Goidel Kirby 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Caregiving strain often stems from caregivers’ unmet needs and is a risk factor for physical and psychological ill-health. This study aims to identify factors associated with caregiver strain among middle-aged and older African American and Hispanic male caregivers living with one or more chronic conditions. Data were collected from 431 male caregivers using a web-based survey (55% African American, 45% Hispanic). Linear regression models were fitted to assess factors associated with caregiver strain, which was measured using caregiving difficulty items from Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. On average, participants were age 54.9(±9.51) years, they self-reported chronic conditions were 3.74(±2.62), and their caregiver strain was 14.7(±7.30). Among African American caregivers, higher caregiver strain was positively associated with living with children below age 18 (β=0.14, P=0.045) and feelings of social disconnectedness (β=0.16, P=0.018) and depression (β=0.15, P=0.035). Conversely, caregiver strain was negatively associated with having insurance coverage (β=-1.34, P=0.028) and disease self-management efficacy (β=-2.26, P=&lt; 0.001. Among Hispanic caregivers, higher caregiver strain was negatively associated with age (β=-0.28, P=&lt; 0.001) and positively associated with feelings of social disconnectedness (β=0.16, P=0.041). Findings suggest African American and Hispanic males with chronic conditions have differing caregiving experiences. Compared to Hispanic men, contributors to caregiving strain among African American men were multifaceted and associated with financial resources, household dynamics, mental health, and the ability to self-manage their chronic conditions. While bolstering social connectedness may offset caregiver strain, tailored mental health and disease-management programming are needed to meet the specific needs of African American and Hispanic male caregivers.
EXPLORING THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN FAMILY DYNAMICS AND PREPAREDNESS FOR FAMILY CAREGIVING AT THE END OF LIFE
Authors: Fox Aimee , Sharp Julia , Fruhauf Christine 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The transition to providing end-of-life (EOL) care to a family member can be challenging for family caregivers as they face difficult decisions regarding medical course of treatment, increasing caregiving responsibilities, and anticipatory grief. Low preparedness for EOL caregiving is associated with higher levels of caregiver strain, increased levels of depression and anxiety, and complicated and prolonged grief after the death of the family member. Despite the breadth of caregiving research, little is known about how family relationships and interactions relate to caregiver preparedness for EOL caregiving. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore the association between family caregivers’ family dynamics and their perceived preparedness for the transition to EOL caregiving. A sample of 173 family caregivers were recruited to complete an online, self-report survey. A structural equation model was used to analyze the association between family dynamics and caregiving preparedness. Most caregivers reported balanced family cohesion (75.1%) and family flexibility (75.7%), but low family communication and low family satisfaction. In addition, 20.2% of caregivers reported being not at all prepared for the transition to EOL caregiving. Although there was a lack of meaningful association between family dynamics and preparedness for EOL caregiving, it may be that family relationships and interactions grow more complex as families age and individuals take on new and different roles (such as family caregiving) within the family system. This study demonstrates the need for future research to develop new measures to explore how aging family dynamics relate to family caregiver experiences and outcomes.
FAMILY CAREGIVER SOCIAL CONNECTEDNESS: TECHNOLOGY USE ACROSS GENERATIONS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Pohl Janet , Kolodisner Jude , Coon David 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
During the COVID–19 pandemic, maintaining connectedness was difficult for caregivers. Family caregivers represent multiple generations whose experience with and use of social technology to maintain connectedness can vary and differentially impact critical health outcomes. The aims of this study were to examine caregiver connectedness and technology preferences across three generations of caregivers who provide care to older adults with chronic illnesses. The semi-structured focus-groups/interviews conducted in August of 2020 with family caregiver participants including Millennials (n=6), Generation X (n=5), and Boomer (n=8). Two researchers analyzed the transcribed content via thematic analysis. Similarities and differences across generations were assessed via comparative analysis. The themes that emerged from the data were: (1) Millennials (a) Altered stage of life, (b) Altered connectedness, (c) Need others to understand, (d) Stay away from social network sites; (2) Generation X (a) Altered connectedness, (b) Need others to understand, (c) Burden, (d) Fear-of-failure; and (3) Baby Boomer (a) Altered connectedness, (b) Technology builds connectedness, (c) Information seeking. All generations expressed alterations in connectedness with caregiver role. Millennials and Generation X caregivers emphasized need for others to understand that caregiving altered their lives with unique responsibilities. Technology use differed across the generations, with Millennial texting for confidential communications. Millennial and Generation X caregivers do not use social media due to envy of others’ fun. Baby Boomers expressed increased connectedness with the use of Zoom. Understanding the variation in the experience of caregiver connectedness and technology use by generation may identify targets for future caregiver connectedness intervention studies.
CROSS-NATIONAL VARIABILITY IN SEX/GENDER DIFFERENCES AND LATER-LIFE MEMORY: INDIA AND THE UNITED STATES
Authors: Westrick Ashly , Avila-Rieger Justina , Gross Alden , Kobayashi Lindsay 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Little is known about the extent of sex/gender differences in later-life cognitive health in low-income countries such as India. We compared sex/gender differences in later-life memory, overall and by educational attainment, across men and women aged ≥65 years in India and the United States. Data were from Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocols (HCAP) in the population-representative Longitudinal Study of Aging in India (LASI; N=4,096;) and U.S. Health and Retirement Study (HRS; N=3,345). Multiple-group models estimated interactions between sex/gender and educational attainment on harmonized episodic memory scores across countries. In the U.S., women had a memory performance advantage compared to men across all education levels. In India, men had a memory performance advantage compared to women overall, interactions revealed that this advantage was only present among those with no formal education. Among those with at least lower secondary education, women demonstrated an advantage that increased with increasing education.
INDIVIDUALS AND THEIR CAREGIVERS WITH PERSISTENT PAIN: A FEASIBILITY AND ACCEPTABILITY STUDY
Authors: Fruhauf Christine , Schmid Arlene , Fox Aimee , Portz Jennifer Dickman , Sharp Julia , Leach Heather , Van Puymbroeck Marieke 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Persistent pain interventions targeting the caregiving dyad (i.e., caregivers and care receivers) are scarce. Thus, the purpose of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the Merging Yoga and self-management to develop Skills (MY-Skills) intervention for caregiving dyads experiencing persistent pain. MY-Skills is a group intervention and was delivered in-person or online (due to COVID-19) twice a week for eight weeks, with each two-hour session including self-management education followed by yoga. Benchmarks for feasibility were set a prioi and included: recruitment, attrition, attendance, safety, acceptability/satisfaction, and study completion. Thirteen participants (caregivers n=7, care-receivers n=6) completed the in-person intervention and 18 individuals (9 dyads) completed the online version. Feasibility benchmarks were met, except for recruitment, where &gt;1000 individuals were screened for eligibility. Interventions may lead to improved wellbeing, yet further research is needed to establish efficacy of health-related outcomes for the caregiving dyad experiencing persistent pain.
DYADIC CHANGES IN WELL-BEING ACROSS THE TRANSITION TO SENIOR HOUSING FACILITIES: A PROSPECTIVE LONGITUDINAL STUDY
Authors: Luong Gloria , Russell Andrea , Miller James 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Previous research examining the transition into senior housing has focused primarily on individuals and has used cross-sectional, retrospective designs after older adults have already moved into the facilities. These designs cannot disentangle changes over time and how partners influence this process. The Relocation and Transitional Experiences (RELATE) study leverages a prospective longitudinal design that tracked 157 participants (97 who participated in the study as part of a dyad with a romantic partner or other close partner (family member)) prior to moving into senior housing and across 3.5 months after the move. Participants ranged between 40-95 years of age. Results showed that those who were unmarried reported fewer depressive symptoms, but also less social support and lower life satisfaction than married participants. Changes over the 3.5 month period in depressive symptoms, social support, and rumination also varied by age. This study suggests partners may influence one another’s developmental health trajectories.
FEAR OF FALLING, FALL RISK, AND ETHNICITY AMONG OLDER ADULTS IN SINGAPORE: AN ELECTRONIC SURVEY
Authors: Chong Wayne , Lokanathan Tharshini , Yow W Quin 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
This study investigated the association between fear of falling and falls risk among Chinese and non-Chinese community-dwelling older adults in Singapore. Preliminary data were collected from individuals who will turn 60 years old and above in 2022 via an electronic survey between January and February 2022. The majority (61%) of the 128 Chinese participants had no falls risk and low fear of falling as compared to other combinations of falls risk (absence, presence) and fear of falling (low, moderate, high), Pearson Chi Square (2) = 8.03, p = .02. Among the 16 non-Chinese participants, no dominant falls risk-fear of falling combination was found, Pearson Chi Square (2) = 3.47, p = .18. Multinomial logistic regression analyses found, however, that in the presence of falls risk, ethnicity did not predict moderate fear of falling, B = .24, p = .70, nor high fear of falling, B = -.37, p = .74.