bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CHARACTERIZING PERFORMANCE VARIABILITY ACROSS COGNITIVE TASKS IN OLDER ADULTS WITH AND WITHOUT ADHD
Authors: Klepacz Laura M , Cerino Eric , Kok Almar A L 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Most research on cognitive performance among individuals with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) focuses on younger persons and on cognitive variability within speeded response-time tasks. Dispersion, i.e., variability across a range of cognitive domains, is emerging as a promising indicator of age-related and pathological cognitive impairment. However, there has yet to be an evaluation of differences in dispersion among older adults with and without ADHD. We address this gap by assessing associations of age and ADHD status with dispersion. We hypothesize older adults will exhibit greater dispersion than comparatively younger adults and explore whether individuals with ADHD exhibit greater dispersion than individuals without ADHD. In a sample of 231 adults from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (Average age=71.64 years, SD=7.7, 59% female), 23 individuals met DSM-IV criteria for ADHD and 208 were classified as neurotypically functioning. Participants completed 13 tasks spanning domains of attention, fluency, memory, processing speed, and reasoning. Dispersion across the tasks was calculated as an intraindividual standard deviation. We regressed dispersion on age and ADHD status and adjusted for sex. Older age was significantly associated with greater dispersion (Est =0.06, SE=0.03, p=0.01). However, dispersion profiles did not vary as a function of ADHD status (Est.=-0.25, SE=0.67, p&gt;05). Preliminary results suggest that dispersion across cognitive tasks may not be a sensitive marker of ADHD in older adults, although statistical power to detect differences was relatively low in the current study. As expected, age was a significant predictor of increased dispersion, consistent with accounts of age-related changes in neurological integrity.
ASSOCIATION OF COGNITIVE STATUS AND CONSUMPTION OF UNPROCESSED AND ULTRA-PROCESSED FOODS IN BRAZILIAN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Silva Graziele , Freiria Carol , Brito Tábatta , Borim Flávia Arbex Silva , Corona Ligiana P 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The decrease in consumption of fresh or minimally processed foods and the increase in ultra-processed foods are being observed in the diet of older adults and these changes may lead to worsening health status and cognition. We aimed to evaluate the association between cognitive status and food consumption according to the level of processing in Brazilian older adults. Cross-sectional study, with a sample of 585 older adults (≥60 years). Cognition was evaluated using the Cognitive Skills Screening Instrument (CASI-S), considering cognitive deficit when scores &lt; 23 in participants aged 60–69 and &lt; 20 in those aged ≥70 years. Foods reported in 24-hour food recall were classified according to their processing level into four groups of NOVA proposal: 1) unprocessed/minimally processed foods, 2) culinary ingredients, 3) processed foods (products made only from groups 1 and 2); and 4) ultra-processed foods. We estimated the means of total CASI-S score and its four domains according to the quartiles of intake of each food group, and evaluated the association between cognitive decline and each food group intake using logistic models adjusted for gender, age, schooling. Individuals in the highest quartile of unprocessed/minimally processed foods intake had higher scores in temporal orientation (p=0.034), verbal fluency (p=0.002), and total CASI-S score (p=0.004). The scores did differ according to the intake of the other food groups. The ultra-processed was the only group associated with cognitive deficit (OR:1.02; p=0.002). Results suggest nutritional counselling for older adults should focus in reducing ultra-processed and increasing unprocessed foods to help preventing cognitive deficit.
EVERYDAY FUNCTION PROFILES IN PRODROMAL STAGES OF MOTORIC COGNITIVE RISK SYNDROME: A PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY
Authors: Kravatz Nigel , Adhikari Dristi , Ayers Emmeline , Verghese Joe 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Assessment of everyday function is crucial to diagnosing pre-dementia and dementia syndromes in older individuals. Prodromal stages of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are associated with mild limitations in complex activities of daily living. It is unknown whether such limitations exist in the prodromal period before criteria is met for motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR), a pre-dementia syndrome defined by subjective cognitive complaints and slow gait speed. We compared complex everyday functional profiles at baseline in 46 community-dwelling older individuals (aged 65+) with normal cognitive performance at baseline who went on to develop incident MCR (‘pre-MCR’) with 265 older individuals who remained cognitively normal over follow-up. Patients diagnosed with MCI and global cognitive function scores more than 1.5 standard deviations below the mean at baseline were excluded. The mean number of limitations on complex everyday function at baseline was 3.52±3.1 in the pre-MCR cases and 1.78±2.2 in the 265 normal controls (OR 1.28; 95% CI 1.14–1.43). After adjusting for demographic factors, comorbidities, and follow-up time, the overall number of limitations remained significantly higher in the pre-MCR participants compared to the normal participants (OR 1.18; 95% CI 1.02–1.37). Of the limitations, difficulty completing hobbies and handling finances were associated with pre-MCR after adjustments. Limitations on complex everyday functions in individuals occur before they meet criteria for incident MCR on longitudinal follow-up. Such limitations over time will help clinicians identify individuals at-risk for dementia early in clinical practice.
COMFORT COMMUNICATION IN HOME HEALTH: FEASIBILITY, ACCEPTABILITY, AND PRELIMINARY EFFECTIVENESS
Authors: Bigger Sharon , Zanville Noah , Wittenberg Elaine , Towsley Gail , Glenn Lee 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Home health is the fastest-growing long-term care setting in the U. S.. However, evidence on effective clinician-patient-family communication in home health is lacking. This prospective, two-arm, pre-post randomized controlled trial aimed to assess feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of the COMFORT (Connect, Options, Meaning-making, Family Caregiver, Openings, Relating, and Team) communication model in home health interprofessional staff (IHHS). IHHS (n = 18) were randomized into two groups: Group 1 (control) (n=10) received seven asynchronous modules, and Group 2 (intervention) (n = 8) received the same modules plus a 2-hour synchronous class with interactive slide presentation and exercises. Measures included completion rates, acceptability ratings, comfort with communication in palliative and end-of-life care (C-COPE), and moral distress in health professionals (MMD-HP). Regardless of group, COMFORT was highly acceptable (&gt;4) to IHHS. COMFORT was positively correlated with improved C-COPE scores (p = 0.037). Moral distress scores did not differ before and after the intervention; however, baseline moral distress scores were found to be higher in IHHS when compared to an academic medical center sample from a previous study. Levels of acceptability of COMFORT were significantly related to clinician levels of considering leaving a job due to moral distress (chi square = 7.6, p = 0.02, Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test). Findings suggest that COMFORT training increases IHHS comfort with palliative and end-of-life communication, especially among clinicians with histories of considering leaving a job or having left a job due to moral distress.
COMMUNITY-BASED ORGANIZATIONS CONTRACTING WITH HEALTH CARE PARTNERS TO ADDRESS SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH
Authors: Graham Robert , Karmacharya Isha 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Community Based Organizations (CBOs), such as Area Agencies on Aging, play a vital role in their communities by offering a range of services that address the health-related social needs of older adults and people with disabilities. As health care entities (HCEs) become more aware of the effects of unmet social needs on health outcomes, there has been a significant increase in the number of HCEs contracting with CBOs to provide a wider range of services and care coordination for older adults and people with disabilities. Using findings from four waves of the national Aging and Disability Business Institute’s CBO-Health Care Contracting Survey (2017–2021), presenters will describe trends in CBO/HCE contracting, including increased diversification of partnerships with health care payers and providers, services provided, and populations served. Results suggest that more CBOs are forming integrated networks to improve contracting with HCEs, and that assessment for SDOH is the most common service.
IN THEIR VOICES: A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF OLDER ADULTS’ PERSPECTIVES OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Liou Chih-ling 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Older adults are a very heterogeneous group and are likely to experience the pandemic in a variety of ways. This study is to give older adults voices to share their experiences of this pandemic. Data were collected in spring 2022 using semi-structured interviews with 46 adults (74% females) aged 66 and 97 residing in the Midwestern United States. Participants were asked to share how the pandemic affects them, their vision for the future, and how they cope during the pandemic. Participants expressed both positive and negative effects of pandemics. Although they shared more information and examples of the negative effects, most of them did express an optimistic view of the future. The most reported negative effects were few contacts with family and friends, isolation/loneliness, and confinement/restrictions. The most reported positive effects were having more time, getting things done, driving less, and becoming more appreciative. Their perspectives toward the COVID-19 pandemic are varied: some believed that the effects of the pandemic are just temporary, and others compared it to the wars that were much worse. Findings reveal that oldest-old (85+) and old-old (75–84) participants are better at regulating their negative effects compared to the young-old (65–74). Older adults during the pandemic are not just passive help receivers but can be proactive helpers to give advice and coping strategies as well as provide emotional support to others. Older adults’ adaptability during the COVID-19 pandemic should be better understood to reverse the image of their vulnerabilities and promote late-life coping during crises.
PERCEPTIONS OF THE GEROPSYCHOLOGY WORKFORCE
Authors: Moye Jennifer , Ma Flora , Schmidt Nicholas , Heintz Hannah , Allen Rebecca , Carpenter Brian 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
There is a longstanding shortage of teaching faculty and clinicians trained in psychology and aging (Moye et al. 2019). Further, there are few marginalized group members in the geriatric workforce. To better understand this issue, a survey was distributed to psychology and aging listservs in preparation for the “Building Bridges” conference. Problems noted by respondents (N=275) included fewer applicants for aging-related positions (42%), decreased interest in aging by students (32%), loss of aging-related positions (18%); 24% thought workforce problems are worse than 5 years ago. Similar themes emerged in qualitative comments including: (1) lack of applicants/ interest, (2) lack of or decline in the training/ education opportunities, (3) lack of finances/ funding/ resources, (4) lack of professional positions, and (5) positive experiences/ actions/ change. Themes specific to marginalized group members to support diversity, equity, and inclusion include mindful commitment, education (e.g., mentorship), and recognizing not doing enough.
CLINICIANS’ PERSPECTIVES ON THE EVOLUTION OF PALLIATIVE CARE DELIVERY DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Silva Laura Quintero , Schwingel Andiara , Bobitt Julie , Raj Minakshi 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Palliative care has been primarily delivered to patients in person since its inception. During the Covid-19 pandemic, providing palliative care was especially challenging for clinicians due to public health measures to contain the virus that required them to interact virtually with patients and families. While the rapid implementation of telehealth has been examined in other clinical contexts, limited research has studied the impact of the pandemic on palliative care delivery. This study examined the experiences clinicians faced when providing palliative care to older adult patients during the pandemic. Between April 2021 and March 2022, we interviewed 29 geriatricians and palliative care specialists from 11 institutions across the US. We asked clinicians about their experiences with palliative care during the pandemic, including challenges and opportunities related to the changing nature of palliative care delivery. We analyzed interviews using reflexive thematic analysis. The following three themes emerged from the analysis: (1) Clinicians’ challenges adjusting to virtual care; (2) System-level barriers, restrictions, and uncertainties about Covid-19; and (3) Older adult patients’ context and vulnerability (i.e., loss of social engagement, isolation, loneliness, delayed access to care) that increased the complexity of their health conditions. In conclusion, clinicians’ experiences during the pandemic shed light on the evolution of palliative care delivery and the importance of preparing them for new care models that account for virtual delivery and that address the diverse needs of older adults that emerge during public health crises.
ULTRASOUND MUSCLE THICKNESS AS AN EASY METHOD TO ASSESS LEAN MASS AND GRIP STRENGTH IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Vilar Fernandes Lara , De Oliveira Gabriela Benatti , Junqueira Vasques Ana Carolina , Andrade Flavia , Yu Xia , Chen Summer , Corona Ligiana P 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Ultrasound is emerging as an effective method for measuring muscle mass in older adults, being more cost-effective than other image methods, such as Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and computed tomography, and more accurate than bioelectrical impedance and anthropometry. We aimed to evaluate the correlation between measurements of muscle thickness (MT) measured by a portable A-mode ultrasound, the total lean mass (TLM) measured by DXA, and grip strength (GS) among community-dwelling Brazilian older adults. This is a cross-sectional pilot study with 30 participants (9 men and 21 women) aged 60–78. MT was assessed in five anatomic sites (triceps, biceps, anterior and posterior thigh, calf) using a portable A-mode ultrasound (BodyMetrix BX-2000 - IntelaMetrix, Inc.); TLM was assessed by DXA (GE Healthcare’s Lunar iDXA), and GS was assessed using a Saehan dynamometer. Pearson′s test was used for correlation analysis between each site MT and TLM; linear regressions were estimated to verify the association between GS and each site MT, controlling for age. Lower limb measurements (anterior and posterior thigh, calf) were not associated with TLM and GP. Triceps MT was significantly correlated to TLM (r=0.565; p=0.001) and associated to GS (β=0.699; p=0.004); biceps MT was also correlated to TLM (r=0.425; p=0.019) and associated to GS (β=0.652; p=0.012). Our results suggest that upper limb ultrasound measurements using portable equipment can be a helpful cost-effective indicator of muscle mass and function in older adults. Further results and conclusions will be reported after completing the study with the total planned sample (n=150).
PREDICTORS OF INDIVIDUAL TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES IN THE TRANSITION TO NON-DRIVING
Authors: Hansmann Kellia , McAndrews Carolyn , Robert Stephanie 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
For older adults who transition to non-driving, successful coping includes maintaining mobility. Individual transportation alternatives, e.g. rides from friends and family, are important coping factors in the transition to non-driving. However, it is unclear to what extent social network composition predicts the accessibility of these individual transportation alternatives. We examined whether various aspects of social networks (including living with a spouse/partner; having a child; living with a child; having other household members; having anyone to talk to about important things) were associated with the actual receipt of rides from family and friends. Using the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), a nationally representative cohort of Medicare beneficiaries ages 65 and older, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis using a subsample of community-dwelling older adults whose driving status was known at the baseline interview in 2015 (n = 5,889). We used logistic regression to estimate the association between social network indicators with the odds of receiving a ride from a family member or friend. When adjusting for biopsychosocial characteristics and current driving status, we found that having a spouse or partner was associated with a significant odds of having received a ride (adjusted OR, 95% CI = 1.41, 1.05–1.90) as was being able to name at least five people the participant could talk to about important things (adjusted OR, 95% CI = 1.65, 1.14–2.38). Our findings support previous evidence that marital status and support from social network members outside one’s household may be particularly important for accessible individual transportation alternatives.
PHYSICAL SYMPTOM TRAJECTORIES OF OLDER ADULTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Lee Dylan , Choun Soyoung , Lee Hye Soo , Kurth Maria , Aldwin Carolyn 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Older adults experience increased risk for morbidity and mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic (CDC, 2021). Social distancing and lockdown to prevent contagion may affected physical and mental health. We examined the fifteen physical symptom trajectories of older adults during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. We also examined age, gender, and marital status differences in each physical symptom trajectory. The sample consisted of 247 older adults (Mage = 71.1, SD = 7.3, 88.7% White, 73% women, 73.4% married), who participated in eight weekly longitudinal online surveys from April 28 to June 23, 2020. Random-effects logistic regression analysis controlling for age, gender, marital status, and depressive symptoms showed that the nine physical symptoms (headache, constipation/diarrhea, muscle soreness, shortness of breath, tightness of chest, backache, heart pounding, congestion, and sore throat) significantly decreased in the first few weeks, but then six symptoms (constipation/diarrhea, shortness of breath, tightness of chest, heart pounding, congestion, and sore throat) increased in later weeks of the study period. Middle-aged participants reported higher number of headache, tightness of chest, heart pounding, and nausea/upset stomach than older participants. Women experienced more constipation/diarrhea, trembling/shaking, and sore throat than men. Those who were not married responded with higher number of shortness of breath, backache and poor appetite compared to married participants. Higher depressive symptoms were significantly related to each physical symptom. The results suggest that healthcare providers should evaluate physical symptoms focusing on the patients who are at greater risk of poor health during the pandemic.
FEASIBILITY OF INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGIES TO PROMOTE LEISURE ACTIVITY ENGAGEMENT AMONG ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENTS
Authors: Gaspar Phyllis , Do Elena , Kim Junhyoung , Chow Angela , Sobol Adam , Francisco Raia , McFarland Lisa 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Research suggests that advanced technologies, such as wearable technology and tablets, can serve an important role in the cost-effective, accessible delivery of health promotion that is individualized, immersive, and engaging for users. The present study was designed to test the feasibility and acceptability of two integrated technologies among assisted living facility residents: CareBand’s wearable technology and Eperture’s RememberStuff (R/S) tablet platform. The purpose of the qualitative component of the project was to provide preliminary information from the perspective of the assisted living facility participants on these two technologies. Another goal was to assess the challenges of their participation. Drawing on qualitative thematic analyses of data collected from semi-structured interviews with 16 participants (four staff members and 12 residents) prior to and following the 6-week integrated technology program, three themes emerged as positive outcomes of the technology experiences: (a) leisure activity engagement, (b) exploration of tablet features, and (c) cognitive stimulation. This finding suggests that these technologies may enhance leisure engagement and cognitive function. On the other hand, there were three challenges that participants experienced while participating in the program: (a) inability to grasp functionality, (b) need for continued education for the technology, and (c) negative stereotypes toward technology use. These challenges provide guidance for future protocol design in follow-up studies to further explore the integrated technology efficacy for older adult users. The practical implications of this study and suggestions for health professionals are discussed.
TRUST IN GOD AND THE CHURCH, NOT NEIGHBORS: EXPLORING SOCIAL COHESION AMONG AGING HIV+ INDIVIDUALS
Authors: Vu Thi , Dunham Katherine , Lin-Schweitzer Anna , Girma Meron , Lee Megan , Ransome Yusuf 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Rates of new HIV diagnoses among people 55+ years old remained unchanged between 2015–2019, suggesting potential HIV prevention challenges in the aging population due to co-morbidities, social isolation, and age-related stigma. Socio-cultural factors play a strong role in influencing HIV outcomes. Social cohesion — including appraisals of trust in neighbors and levels of belongingness to a community — has been shown to be an important channel for HIV prevention in the general population. However, there is scant evidence about how social cohesion relates to HIV prevention and care engagement among older adults. We employed a convergent, parallel mixed-methods study to investigate this topic among a sample (n =17) of adults aged 50+ living with HIV in New Haven, CT. We conducted semi-structured interviews which were analyzed using thematic analysis in NVivo.v12. We also collected quantitative data in RedCap and calculated descriptive statistics in STATA.v16. Participants were on average 57 years of age (SD=4); 53% female, and 69% Black/African American. Participants’ trust in their neighborhoods was low [mean=2.61 (range 1 - 5, where 5 indicates high trust)]. In interviews, trust did not significantly influence one’s HIV status disclosure or care management. Instead, participants often identified their faith in God or relationship with local churches as significant sources of social and informational support they often rely on for their HIV-related needs. Our results show that investigating the impact of religious belonging on outcomes may be a fruitful path of research to improve HIV outcomes among the aging population.