bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
KEEPING COMMUNITY DURING A PANDEMIC: LGBTQ+ OLDER ADULTS AND THE VIRTUAL SENIOR CENTER
Authors: Marmo Suzanne , Pardasani Manoj , Vincent David 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
During the initial stages of the pandemic, 96% of all senior centers ceased in-person programming, leaving many older adults without resources for meals, socialization, and critical services (NCOA, 2020). As a result of this shutdown, risk factors such as being a member of the underserved LGBTQ+ community, identifying as part of a racial or ethnic minoritized group, and/or experiencing poverty contributed to an increased likelihood of experiencing difficulties in meeting basic needs, reduced immunity to COVID and experiencing isolation (Berg-Weger and Morley, 2020; Kuehn, 2021). Despite the closure of many senior centers, some organizations were well positioned to strategically utilize pre-existing resources to help the community (Pendergrast, 2021). One organization, SAGE Advocacy and Services for LGBTQ+ Elders, the first publicly funded senior advocacy organization for LGBTQ+ older adults in the US, was one of the first to effectively transition to becoming a virtual senior center within days after the start of the pandemic (NYC DOA, 2020). Having a group of front-line workers who were highly embedded in their community, helped facilitate effective organizational adaptation and transition to a virtual senior center. This presentation seeks to describe how staff and program facilitators became vital resources for maintaining connection to the community of LGBTQ+ older adults. Focus groups with SAGE senior center employees and program facilitators were conducted in summer of 2021. Data identified resiliencies and barriers for maintaining community, providing vital services, and mitigating isolation with LGBTQ+ elders. Lessons learned and implications for organizations facing crises will be shared.
DESIGNING INTERVENTIONS FOR OLDER ADULTS WITH LOW- AND MIDDLE-INCOME COUNTRIES SETTINGS IN MIND
Authors: Baker Zachary , Nkimbeng Manka , Cuevas Pearl G , Quiñones Ana , Kang Karmeet , Gaugler Joseph , Hinton Ladson , Shippee Tetyana 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Most people living with dementia (PLWD) live in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) and the proportion in LMICs is poised to continue growing. But 99.9% of dementia funding is awarded to researchers in high-income countries (HIC). Our team of scientists from India, Cameroon, the Philippines, the USA, Ukraine, and Germany draw on our involvement in interventions in 12 countries to suggest one way to help meet the needs of PLWD living in LMICs. We suggest that researchers in HICs who are developing new interventions might consider the needs of LMICs during intervention development. By thinking through implementation scenarios in different settings or countries where barriers and facilitators to implementation vary in type, or in importance, it might speed future adaptation of those interventions to LMICs. We outline anticipated challenges, case studies from our own work, benefits for individual researchers, benefits for public health, and recommendations for employing this strategy.
INTEGRATING HOUSING, HEALTH, AND SUPPORTIVE CARE IN AFFORDABLE SENIOR HOUSING: EVALUATION OF THE R3 PROGRAM
Authors: Miller Edward , Cohen Marc 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
This symposium reports evaluation findings from the Right Care, Right Place, Right Time (R3) program. The initiative is designed to integrate housing, health, and supportive care to residents of affordable senior housing using a wellness team (nurse and social worker). The embedded team works directly with residents to address health-related, educational, and informational needs and access to services - focusing on proactive outreach and prevention, coordination with providers, constant contact with residents, and targeting high-risk residents. The initiative aims to create a replicable, scalable, and sustainable model of housing with supportive services that enables independent living while reducing health care costs. Two wellness teams served approximately 400 participants at seven Boston-area buildings. The R3 program was implemented in two phases. The 18-month pre-intervention period was January 2016-March 2017, while the 18-month Phase 1 intervention period was July 2017-December 2018. The 21-month Phase 2 implementation period (known R32), which introduced a targeting strategy to identify high risk residents, was January 2019-September 2020. Evaluation activities included quantitative and qualitative components. Program participants and non-participants at intervention and comparison sites were surveyed on program-related experiences. Program, housing, and community partners were interviewed. Key performance indicators were tracked. Medicare claims data were analyzed using comparison groups. Focus groups were completed with payers, housing providers, and community stakeholders. The purpose of this symposium is to identify the experiences of program participants and key stakeholders with the R3 program, and to assess program impact. Edward Miller and Marc Cohen will serve as chair and co-chair, respectively.
THE EXPERIENCES OF PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS WITH THE R3 PROGRAM
Authors: Simpson Elizabeth , Miller Edward , Lin Yan , Nadash Pamela , Cohen Marc 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The voluntary nature of the R3 program means that the experiences of residents who enroll in the program are critical to program success. Surveys were distributed to participants and non-participants in the intervention and control buildings during R32. Findings indicate that most enrollees are interacting with R32 staff; they trust them and feel that they provide important information; and they feel safer, less alone, and healthier because of their participation in the program. Roughly nine-in-ten are satisfied with the program and three in five would recommend it to a friend. Fully one-third believe that the program is helping them avoid medical emergencies necessitating a trip to the emergency room. When faced with a serious medical concern, residents in R32 buildings are far less likely to view calling 911 or going to the emergency room for treatment as a way to address their issue compared to individuals living in control buildings.
INTEGRATION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY IN RESEARCH INVOLVING OLDER ADULTS: LESSONS FROM COMMUNITY-BASED TRIALS
Authors: Han Hae-Ra 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Working with study participants in community-based clinical trials during COVID-19 pandemic has created diverse challenges to study teams. Globally, COVID-related restrictions were implemented including country-wide lockdowns and social distancing, and study teams had to quickly adjust their study protocols to work in a virtual environment. Meeting virtually for recruitment activities or intervention delivery may be particularly challenging when the target group is older adults—one of the vulnerable populations to experience the digital divide due to limited digital access and limited digital literacyThis symposium covers the lessons learned related to use of digital technology in participant recruitment and intervention delivery across a range of populations, including community-dwelling Korean American older adults to African American older women living with pain and low mood, caregivers of persons living with heart failure, and low-income cancer survivors with multiple chronic conditions. The discussion will include 1) findings from screening over 1,000 older Korean Americans to enroll them into a multi-site community-based trial, 2) lessons in diversifying intervention delivery methods to African American older women, 3) the integration of virtual modality into a self-care and social support intervention for caregivers of persons with heart failure, and 4) the deployment of mHealth to deliver a home-based exercise program to ethnically diverse low-income cancer survivors with co-morbid conditions in the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic. This symposium seeks to build the evidence related to recruitment and intervention delivery targeting diverse groups of older adults in community settings using technology by sharing common challenges, experiences, and opportunities.
PRELIMINARY SOMMA DATA: COGNITIVE AND PHYSICAL FUNCTION RELATIONSHIPS IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Kritchevsky Stephen , Newman Anne , Cawthon Peggy , Mau Theresa , Hepple Russell T , Coen Paul , Goodpaster Bret , Cummings Steven 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
We used canonical correlation (n=424) to examine the relationships between a set of physical function measures (400m usual pace, chair stands/sec, 4m walk pace, standing balance times, VO2 peak, muscle power, four-square step test (FSST) time, stair climb time and stair climb power) and a set of cognitive measures (Trail Making Test B (sec), Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and California Verbal Learning Test). Canonical correlation derives synthetic variables comprised of linear combinations within each set of variables (physical and cognitive) that maximize the correlations between synthetic variables. The FSST was most strongly correlated with the cognitive synthetic variable (- 0.42). The DSST score was the cognitive measure most strongly correlated with the physical synthetic variable (0.48). It is notable that only the timed cognitive and physical tests are inter-associated
HOW CAN PATIENT PORTALS SUPPORT CAREGIVERS PROVIDING END-OF-LIFE CARE?: A MIXED-METHODS STUDY
Authors: Portz Jennifer Dickman , Powers John David , Baldwin Megan , Gleason Kathy , Boxer Rebecca , Palen Ted , Bayliss Elizabeth 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Patient portal design is rarely centered around patient caregivers—family members, friends and other designated persons who may access these digital tools for the patient’s health needs. This study examines: (a) portal features used by caregivers during their loved-one’s end-of-life; and (b) caregiver perceptions regarding the use of patient portals for caregiving near the end-of-life.Using sequential mixed-methods, we conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of caregiver proxy (N=137) use from 2016-2019 during their loved-ones’ (N=5,284) last 12 months of life and interviews with (N=31) 16-former and 15-current caregiver proxies. Caregiver proxy portal use in this population was lower than expected; however, caregivers who used the portal as proxies found value in tools for caregiving near the end-of-life. To leverage the patient portal to better support caregivers, future strategies should target caregiver portal adoption, awareness of beneficial portal tools, and the addition of caregiver specific resources and education.
EPIGENETIC AGING IN OLDER BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS: THE THINKING AND LIVING WITH CANCER (TLC) STUDY
Authors: Rentscher Kelly , Bethea Traci , Zhai Wanting , Cohen Harvey , Small Brent , Ahles Tim , Mandelblatt Jeanne , Carroll Judith 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Cancer and its treatments increase risk for age-related disease, and biological aging may be a key mechanism; however, no research to date has examined epigenetic markers of aging in long-term breast cancer survivors. We used data from a national, prospective cohort to test whether older breast cancer survivors had accelerated epigenetic aging compared to non-cancer controls. Non-metastatic breast cancer survivors ages 62–84 years who received chemotherapy with or without hormonal treatment (n=29) or hormonal treatment alone (n=51), and controls frequency-matched on age, race, education, and time between blood draws (n=101), provided two blood samples between 24- and 60-months post-diagnosis (time between samples average=1.8 years). DNA methylation profiling (Illumina Infinium EPIC array) derived epigenetic aging measures: extrinsic, intrinsic, phenotypic, Grim, and Dunedin Pace of Aging (PoAm). Mixed-effects models tested effects of treatment group and change over time on epigenetic aging, adjusting for chronologic age and comorbidities. Survivors who received chemotherapy +/- hormonal treatment had a biological age 1.9–2.6 years older than controls based on extrinsic, intrinsic, and Grim estimates (p=.045, .045, and .001, respectively). Survivors who received hormonal treatment alone had an extrinsic biological age 1.6 years older than controls (p=.032) and a faster Dunedin PoAm (p=.040). Survivors who received chemotherapy +/- hormonal treatment had a trend for accelerated extrinsic aging over time compared to controls (p=.087). Older breast cancer survivors, especially those receiving chemotherapy, showed an accelerated epigenetic aging profile compared to matched women without cancer. Future research is needed to examine associations with age-related survivorship outcomes.
PLASMA PROTEOMIC SIGNATURE OF DECLINE IN GAIT SPEED AND GRIP STRENGTH
Authors: Liu Xiaojuan , Pan Stephanie , Xanthakis Vanessa , Ramachandran Vasan , Newman Anne , Sanders Jason , Austin Thomas , Odden Michelle 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Physical function predicts health-related quality of life. The biological mechanisms underlying declines in physical function with age remain unclear. We examined the plasma proteomic profile associated with longitudinal changes of physical functions measured by gait speed and grip strength in community-dwelling adults. We applied aptamer-based platform to assay 1,161 plasma proteins on 2,871 participants (60% women, aged 76 years) in Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS) in 1992/1993 and 1,550 participants (55% women, aged 54 years) in Framingham Offspring Study (FOS) in 1991-1995. Gait speed and grip strength were measured annually for 6 years in CHS and at cycles 7 (1998-2001) and 8 (2005-2008) in FOS. The associations of individual protein levels (log-transformed and standardized) with longitudinal changes of gait speed and grip strength in two populations were examined separately by linear mixed effect models. Meta-analyses were implemented using random effect models with a Bonferroni correction for multiple testing. We found that plasma levels of 18 and 12 proteins were associated with changes in gait speed and grip strength, respectively (Bonferroni-corrected p &lt; .05). The proteins most strongly associated with gait speed decline were growth/differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) (uncorrected Meta-analytic p = 1.60E-15), pleiotrophin (PTN) (1.29E-08), and metalloproteinase inhibitor 1 (TIMP-1) (2.02E-08). For grip strength decline, the strongest associations were for GDF-15 (1.39E-07), carbonic anhydrase III (6.60E-07), and TIMP-1 (3.21E-06). Several statistically significant proteins are involved in the alternative complement pathway, extracellular matrix remodeling or immune function. These novel proteomic biomarkers may inform our understanding of the pathophysiology of functional decline.
ENSURING COMPETENCE: ADDRESSING THE NEED FOR LGBTQ+ AGING EDUCATION
Authors: Guest Aaron 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The continued demographic shifts in population aging are coupled with an increase in self-identified, LGBTQ+ individuals entering older age. While they share some common age-related experiences with non-LGBTQ+ individuals, they also face unique challenges as they age, including additional intersectional pressures beyond their sexual or gender identity. These challenges are exacerbated by pre-existing health inequities and heteronormative social support systems. Of particular concern is the ability to locate affirming and accessible social and health services. Gerontologists have a critical role in assisting older LGBTQ+ individuals in navigating complex social systems. To do so requires they have the appropriate education to develop the cultural humility needed to understand and assist these individuals. It necessitates the engagement of gerontology and geriatric education programs in educating future gerontologist professionals about LGBTQ+ older individuals. Critically, it requires the identification of appropriate instructors who are equipped to educate on LGBTQ+ aging topics.
IF THEY BUILD IT, THEY WILL COME: ENGAGING OLDER AFRICAN AMERICANS IN EDUCATION AND RESEARCH
Authors: Lincoln Karen 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Engaging African Americans in health education and research is a mechanism for addressing health disparities and achieving health equity. The science of engagement and retention requires strong community partnerships, authentic leadership, and educational opportunities for students and the broader community. In this presentation, Karen Lincoln will discuss how findings from her research on health and mental health disparities laid the foundation for her community-based health education program and public scholarship. She will highlight Advocates for African American Elders (AAAE), the health education program that she founded and directs. AAAE provides culturally competent health education for older African Americans throughout Los Angeles County and has become a hub for her research, training and mentoring.
METALS EXPOSURE AND COGNITIVE DECLINE IN LATINO ELDERS: RESULTS FROM THE SACRAMENTO AREA LATINO STUDY ON AGING
Authors: Meier Helen , Bakulski Kelly , Aiello Allison 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Latinos have a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) and clinical presentation could take place 7 years earlier, on average, than non-Hispanic whites. This health disparity will likely intensify as the US Latino population over 65 years is predicted to grow from 4 million in 2016 to 19.9 million in 2060. Environmental exposures, such as metals, are of interest as contextual factors contributing to ADRD due to their known neurotoxic effects, particularly in early life. Using data from the Sacramento Area Latino Study on Aging, we examined the association between blood concentrations of five metals and cognitive outcomes. We hypothesized that Latino elders with higher concentrations of non-essential metals will have greater cognitive decline than those with lower concentrations of non-essential metals. Initial results suggest non-essential blood metal levels are not sociodemographically patterned in SALSA participants. Higher lead and mercury concentrations was associated with cognitive decline.
THE END OF PACE: OPPORTUNITY FOR ADVOCACY AND EDUCATION
Authors: O'Barr Gregory , Bonazinga Lindsay , Carey Rebecca , Brosius Tracy , Alexander Anne , Dabrowski Barbara 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a Medicare/Medicaid Managed Care benefit for frail older adults age 55 years or older who, although certified by the state as long-term care (LTC) eligible, choose to live independently in the community. PACE features comprehensive medical and social services coordinated by an interdisciplinary team whose goal is to promote independence. Cheyenne Regional Medical Center has served as Wyoming’s only PACE site since 2007. However, an effort to reduce Medicaid expenditures resulted in elimination of funding and closure of the program by the state. The purpose of this study was to examine the impacts of PACE closure on transition to LTC, concomitant Medicaid expenditures, as well as impacts on participant well-being. Results showed, as expected, that nursing home placement exceeded that projected, thereby increasing Medicaid expenditures in Wyoming. Additional impacts on participant well-being and advocacy benefits of GWEP partnership are discussed.
THE ROLE OF SOCIABILITY IN OLDER ADULTS' ADAPTATION TO COVID-19
Authors: Fiori Katherine , Rauer Amy , Marini Christina , So Christine , Khan Amna 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Some older adults may be particularly sensitive to the negative effects of social disruptions due to COVID-19 (Tyrrell & Williams, 2020). For example, the unique circumstances of the pandemic may have made greater sociability a liability (Wijngaards et al., 2020). The current study used a community sample of 136 older adults (M age = 67.77, range 50-91; 69.3% females; 93% White) to explore whether sociability moderated links between disruptions to contact with friends and family and indicators of mental health. Using a series of hierarchical linear regressions, we found that sociability moderated the association between disruptions in family interactions and depressive symptoms. For more sociable individuals, disruptions in family interactions were more strongly positively associated with depressive symptoms. Given the potential for future social disruptions due to COVID-19, our findings point to the importance of considering the role of sociability in developing interventions targeting older adults.
“IT'S GOING TO BE A NEW NORMAL”: OLDER ADULTS' FUTURE PERCEPTIONS DURING COVID-19
Authors: Van Vleet Bryce , Fuller Heather , Hofmann Brittany , Huseth-Zosel Andrea 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
This study explores older adults’ perceptions of the future related to COVID-19. Participants (N=76) of a larger study aged 70-97 were asked four times throughout the first year of the pandemic when they thought life would return to normal. Their open-ended responses were coded, and themes were identified at each timepoint. A resilient future perspective was identified at each timepoint; themes of a negative or unstable view of the future emerged over time. Additionally, responses were quantified into a 5-point scale for perceived timescale of a return to normal (5 = very long time) and attitude towards the future (5 = very positive). Repeated measures ANOVA revealed that perceived time to normal increased between the beginning and six months into the pandemic, then decreased by 12 months. Attitudes towards the future became more positive over time. These findings indicated that older adults were largely resilient, if uncertain, about the future.
“COUNT YOUR AGE BY FRIENDS, NOT BY YEARS”: AN INTERPERSONAL PERSPECTIVE ON SUBJECTIVE VIEWS OF AGING
Authors: Shrira Amit , Bergman Yoav , Kornadt Anna 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Humans are social beings, and as we age, meaningful and close relationships become increasingly important. However, the literature on older adults’ subjective views of aging (VoA) tends to focus on the link between such views and health outcomes, overlooking important interpersonal correlates. This symposium consists of four presentations that focus on various concepts, study designs, and populations, and offers novel insights regarding how VoA operate in the social domain. The first presentation (Bergman et al.) establishes, using a diary study, the mediating role of understanding others’ emotional states (i.e., Theory of Mind) in the connection between VoA and positive social relationships. The second presentation (Mejía & Hooker) examines, through daily assessment, how VoA differentiate the processes by which older adults construct interactions with their closest social partners to progress toward health goals in daily life. The third presentation (Neupert & Can) employs a diary study and demonstrates that daily fluctuations in both subjective age and ageist attitudes are important determinants for older adults’ well-being. The fourth presentation (Shrira), a clinical study, focuses on how orthopedic patients’ rehabilitation is affected by their own and their healthcare professionals’ VoA. Together, the findings highlight the relevance of VoA to interpersonal functioning and health, and offer valuable information for both researchers and clinicians regarding the importance of this direction in future explorations of older adults’ VoA and physical/psychological well-being.