bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
LEISURE ACTIVITIES AND COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT: HOW IS IT MODIFIED BY LIFE COURSE SES AND AGE AMONG CHINESE OLDER ADULTS?
Authors: Sun Rongjun 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Recent research shows that not only do life course socioeconomic status and engaging in leisure activities have independent effects on cognitive performance of older adults, but also there are significant interaction effects between them. What is less clear is whether these effects, both separate and interactions between them, vary by age among older adults. We use data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey 2005-2014 and a Generalized Linear Mixed Model to examine these relationships. Results show that engaging in leisure activities is significantly associated with cognitive impairment even into very old ages (85+), although such associations are partially absorbed by life course SES. Furthermore, interaction effects of leisure activities and life course SES are also detected across all age groups, although they vary by specific activities. Virtually all interaction effects point to one direction: individuals of higher life course SES enjoy extra benefits from engaging in leisure activities.
RNA PROCESSING MECHANISMS DURING AGING AND CALORIC RESTRICTION
Authors: Rhoads Timothy , Clark Josef , Anderson Rozalyn 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Caloric restriction (CR), a reduction in caloric intake without malnutrition, was first described in the 1930s and is a robust model to extend lifespan. While the specific mechanisms that produce delayed aging are still unknown, work has demonstrated the importance of metabolism – dysregulated mitochondrial metabolism is an aging hallmark, while CR upregulates energy metabolism. Crucially, transcriptional regulation plays a key role in implementing this metabolic program although details are still unclear. Splicing factors that are required for the beneficial effects of dietary restriction in nematodes have been identified, and large-scale exon usage changes have been observed across the metabolic network engaged by CR in various tissues from non-human primates, suggesting a translational mechanism that might contribute to how CR delays aging. We will discuss the landscape of RNA processing across multiple organism, tissue, and intervention contexts and provide a broad perspective of how RNA processing contributes to enhanced longevity.
PERCEPTIONS OF DEMENTIA FRIENDLY COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDERS IN THE US: CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES DURING COVID-19
Authors: Sun Fei , Kim Ha-Neul , Fredrika Opur , Conyers Christian 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
This study examines the challenges faced by Dementia Friendly Communities (DFC) during COVID-19 pandemic and the strategies used to address these challenges from the perspectives of DFC stakeholders in the U.S. Data were collected in 2020 through an online survey of 183 stakeholders (Mage =35.3, SD=8.8, 43.6% being female) involved who were in DFC design, implementation, or evaluation. Three challenges rated most critical by participants included limited funding (40.4%), difficulties to provide services due to policies to contain COVID-19 (35.7%), and lack of staffing (29.3%). Three rated most important strategies included seeking funding and government support (31.1%), developing partnerships and relationships with multiple sectors (29.1%), and recruiting persons with dementia and family caregivers as advocates (27.5%). Communities demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic to implement DFC- related activities. To sustain DFC, enhancing national awareness, acquiring additional funding, and firm cogency from staff members, local/state government, and local communities are needed.
SENIOR CENTER INVOLVEMENT WITH DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY COMMUNITIES: COMMUNITY AND ORGANIZATIONAL FACTORS
Authors: Somerville Ceara , Scher Clara , Coyle Caitlin , Greenfield Emily , Akincigil Ayse 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
As local hubs for aging services, senior centers are well-positioned to engage in dementia-friendly community (DFC) work. Yet centers vary in their engagement, especially as the DFC concept has been introduced only recently in the US. Using a mixed-methods approach, we drew on data from a survey of senior centers in Massachusetts, the US Census, and qualitative interviews with senior center staff to examine factors associated with DFC engagement. Centers that reported greater engagement were in municipalities with higher proportions of older residents from vulnerable groups (e.g., adults ages 80+, limited English proficiency, with a disability, living alone). They also reported greater programmatic, social service, funding, and staff capacity. Qualitative findings elucidated how senior center leaders drew on intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational, and community assets to support local DFC efforts. We discuss implications for policies and practices to cultivate senior centers and other community-based organizations as leaders and partners toward DFCs.
PLAN: PREPARING AND LIVING FOR AGING NOW; A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY INVESTIGATING READINESS TO PLAN FOR AGING AND FRAILTY
Authors: Frechman Erica , Maxwell Cathy , Dietrich Mary , Buck Harleah , Rhoten Bethany 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Population aging and the universality of the aging process offers individuals and society the opportunity to consider strategies to optimize older adults’ well-being and proactively prepare across their aging trajectory. Understanding aging through a holistic lens is essential to promote healthy aging in light of the risk for increasing chronic conditions, frailty, and disability that affect older adults. Planning for aging and frailty encompasses five domains that entail change as individuals age (communication/socialization, environmental, financial, physical care, cognitive status), and provides foci for a proactive approach to planning across life course. The aims of this research were to examine the stages of change through the Transtheoretical Model within the domains of aging, experiences (personal & experiences with others), and associations between contextual factors and stages of change for readiness to plan for aging and frailty. Using a cross-sectional design, 252 community dwelling-adults (aged 50-80) completed a survey on planning for aging and frailty. Results revealed a distribution of stages of change in readiness across domains of planning for aging and frailty with highest levels of planning in the financial domain (68.7%), and lowest levels in cognitive domain (28.2%). Participants reported increased experiences with others compared to personal experiences. Factors most indicative of planning include: older age, marital status, living situation, social support, and vulnerability. Planning for aging and frailty is an innovative concept that takes a comprehensive approach to the aging process. Future study is needed to promote planning across one’s life course and develop interventions focused on enhancing well-being.
SUBJECTIVE COGNITIVE DECLINE AS A PREDICTOR OF INCIDENT HOMEBOUND STATUS AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Burgdorf Julia , Reckrey Jennifer 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
In the US, over 2 million older adults are homebound, meaning they never or rarely leave their home. Being homebound increases risk for negative outcomes, including depression and mortality. Dementia diagnosis is a risk factor for becoming homebound, but over half of those with dementia do not receive a formal diagnosis. Subjective cognitive decline (SCD)—self-reported increase in memory loss over a given timeframe—is an early indicator of dementia that can be easily determined during routine medical encounters. SCD screening could be a valuable tool for identifying older adults at risk of becoming homebound—a critical first step towards supporting these individuals and their caregivers—but its predictive value is not yet known. We examined a nationally representative sample of 4,914 (weighted n=34,381,060) community-living older adults who responded to the 2016 and 2017 National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS). We modelled incident homebound status as a function of SCD using weighted, multivariable logistic regression while adjusting for older adult sociodemographic characteristics, health status, and caregiving support. In adjusted models, those who reported SCD experienced 43% greater odds of becoming newly homebound from 2016-2017 (aOR: 1.43; p=0.03). This relationship persisted among individuals without a formal dementia diagnosis (n=4,735); among these individuals, those who reported SCD experienced 50% greater odds of becoming newly homebound (aOR: 1.50; p=0.02). Findings suggest the potential value of SCD screening as an efficient method of identifying older adults who may benefit from resources that reduce the risk and/or mitigate the negative effects of becoming homebound.
APATHY AND ANXIETY ARE RELATED TO POOR FUNCTION IN PERSONS WITH EARLY-ONSET ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE
Authors: Crouch Adele , Massimo Lauren 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Neuropsychiatric symptoms are prevalent in persons with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease (EOAD) and may contribute to the inability to perform instrumental activities of daily living. We examined associations between frequently observed symptoms in persons with EOAD: apathy, anxiety, depression, and patient function. Caregivers of 94 persons with EOAD completed questionnaires including the Neuropsychiatric Inventory and the Functional Activities Questionnaire. Regression analyses were performed for each neuropsychiatric symptom as a predictor with covariates (age, sex disease duration) and our outcome was patient function. We then performed multivariate analysis with the significant predictors. We observed that apathy explained 20.51% [F(4,68)=5.65, adjusted R2=0.2051; p&lt;0.001], anxiety explained 6.63% [F(4,70)=2.31, adjusted R2=0.0663 p&lt;0.05], and depression was not a significant predictor of patient function. In a multivariate model, apathy and anxiety explained 21.03% [F(5,67)=4.83, adjusted R2=0.2103; p&lt;0.001] of the variance in patient function. These results suggest apathy and anxiety contribute to diminished ability to complete functional activities.
STARS AND WISHES: INSIGHTS AND SUGGESTIONS FOR ACADEMICS IN GERONTOLOGY AND GERIATRICS EDUCATION
Authors: Fruhauf Christine 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
In 2002, I presented a student paper at the annual meeting and educational leadership conference of the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) about co-teaching with my mentor an undergraduate adult development and aging course. Little did I know then, presenting about collaborative teaching methods and proven student assessment of learning such as, ‘Stars and Wishes’, that the AGHE presentation would lead me on a rewarding career path resulting in receiving the 2022 AGHE Distinguished Faculty Award. The purpose of this presentation is to discuss seven ‘Stars’ that I believe were pivotal points in my career whereby gerontological education and students studying gerontology benefited, and my ‘Wishes’ for gerontology and geriatrics education to inspire future academics as they navigate the next 20 years.
END-OF-LIFE HEALTH LITERACY: VALIDATION STUDY OF A NEW INSTRUMENT, THE END-OF-LIFE HEALTH LITERACY SCALE (EOL-HLS)
Authors: Meier Clément , Vilpert Sarah , Borasio Gian Domenico , Jox Ralf J , Maurer Jürgen 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Measuring health literacy allows to assess individuals’ competencies to deal with health issues; it influences how individuals perceive their health problems, communicate with healthcare providers, or make medical decisions. The end of life is commonly characterized by one or several diseases, healthcare services’ uses and requires individuals to make complex medical decisions. Although the end-of-life concerns everyone, the level of competencies of individuals to get through this stage of life has been little explored. This study aims to fill this gap by validating a new instrument, the End-of-life Health Literacy Scale (EOL-HLS), in a representative sample of older adults aged 58+ living in Switzerland. We use the Swiss wave 8 (2019/2020) of SHARE. Based on the seminal work of Nutbeam (2000), end-of-life health literacy skills are measured using questions on the difficulty in understanding medical interventions, finding information, communicating, deciding in advance, and choosing end-of-life care options. In addition, we compare the findings to the European Health Literacy Survey questionnaire (HLS-EU-Q16). The results confirmed the suitability for performing factor analysis (KMO = 0.924, Bartlett’s test of sphericity statistically significant), a three-factor model was established and showed good fit properties (CFI = 0.964, TLI = 0.958, RMSEA = 0.047, SRMR = 0.067) and good reliability (α = 0.93). The associations found between individuals’ sociodemographic characteristics and the HLS-EU-Q16 were also present in our instrument, but higher EOL-HLS scores were associated with more positive end-of-life outcomes. The EOL-HLS is a reliable and valid instrument to target individuals with low end-of-life health literacy.
DAILY CONTEXTS AND HEALTH OUTCOMES ACROSS ADULTHOOD
Authors: Hong Joanna , Huo Meng , Almeida David 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Different daily contexts (i.e., social, behavioral, emotional) influence psychological and physical health. In particular, daily contexts change across adulthood and identifying salutary daily contexts is vital for improving the health of middle-aged and older adults. This symposium adds to a burgeoning literature and presents studies that examine how different daily contexts (social - friend interactions, behavioral - electronic usage, emotional - affective response) impact health outcomes across adulthood. Ng et al. found that friend interactions were associated with poorer heart rate variability throughout the day among Black, but not White adults. Kim et al. showed that evening computer use, a health-impairing behavior, is associated with greater sleep disturbances on the following nights among older adults. Rush et al. found that low and high levels of negative affect reactivity to stressors (increased negative affect in response to stress) were associated with poorer health. Yet, moderate levels of stress reactivity predicted better health. Similarly, Hong et al. found that less positive affect reactivity to stressors (decreased positive affect in response to stress) was protective against elevated systolic blood pressure across stressful days. Lastly, Huo et al. identified an association between older adults’ empathy and daily rumination (i.e., repetitive thoughts) over distress, but observed that the link was attenuated on days when older adults maintained more stable levels of negative affect. Together, findings may inform future interventions aimed at increasing health across adulthood. Dr. Almeida will serve as the Discussant and summarize these studies with regard to their theoretical and methodological contributions.
CUSTODIAL GRANDPARENTS' DEPRESSION AND ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE DURING COVID-19: THE ROLE OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
Authors: Xu Yanfeng , Harrison Theresa 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated racism against racial minorities and widened racial/ethnic disparities in health outcomes and access to health care services. This study analyzed cross-sectional data (N=219) collected from custodial grandparents via Qualtrics Panels in February 2022 to understand the role of race and perceived racial discrimination in contributing to custodial grandparents’ depressive symptoms and access to health care services. Results indicated that a higher level of perceived racial discrimination was positively associated with grandparents’ more depressive symptoms, but it was also associated with lower odds of custodial grandparents’ access to health care services. Furthermore, racial/ethnic disparities in depressive symptoms and access to telemental health services among custodial grandparents were identified. Results imply the importance of addressing racial/ethnic disparities in depressive symptoms and access to health care services among custodial grandparents.
RACIAL TRAUMA IN EMERGING ADULTS RAISED BY GRANDPARENTS: PROTECTING AGAINST DISCRIMINATION
Authors: Lopez Acacia , Scott Rachel , Olson Marin , Nadorff Danielle 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Experiences of racial trauma are linked with psychopathology, but a strong ethnic identity may serve as a protective factor. Grandparents primarily influence the development of ethnic identity, and BIPOC children are increasingly being raised by grandparents. Secure attachments influence stronger ethnic identities, yet custodial grandchildren are at higher risk of disrupted attachments. The current study investigated whether ethnic identity would mediate the relation between attachment and racial trauma symptoms in emerging adults previously raised by their grandparents and their peers (N = 370; 33% raised by grandparents; 25.6% non-white), with race as a moderator. Across all races, there were group differences in symptoms of racial trauma, with those not raised by grandparents experiencing a direct effect of race on ethnic identity. Attachment was a significant predictor of trauma symptoms of discrimination, moderated by race. Implications may provide support for clinical interventions addressing attachment and ethnic identity to decrease trauma symptoms.
INCLUDING FEEDBACK FROM OLDER ADULTS WITH VARYING HEALTH CONDITIONS TO INFORM EXERGAME DESIGNS
Authors: Crane Breanna , Drazich Brittany , Taylor Janiece , Moored Kyle , Ahmad Omar , Krakauer John , Carlson Michelle 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Exergames are emerging technologies that combine “exercise” and “video games” to promote enjoyable cognitive and physical activities. Exergame studies often exclude individuals at greatest risk for adverse health outcomes (e.g., oldest-old, living with chronic conditions, comorbidities, or functional limitations). Thus, it is important to 1) understand motivators and barriers for joining and adhering to exergame studies and 2) capture perspectives from individuals commonly excluded from these studies. We conducted three focus groups among 14 older adults (mean age=79±9 years) with varying health conditions who participated in a novel three-dimensional exergame feasibility study. Data were analyzed using the “Sort and Sift, Think and Shift” approach. Motivators for joining were generativity, peer referrals, self-improvement, and curiosity. Motivators for retention were accomplishment, enjoyability, and exercise. Barriers to participation included frustration and pain/fatigue. We also discuss how participants’ feedback influenced future exergame design. Findings will aid in promoting scalable, enjoyable, and accessible exergame interventions for all.
INTEGRATING RESEARCH, TEACHING, AND SERVICE: AN INTERGENERATIONAL BONDING PROGRAM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA
Authors: Saidi Ladan Ghazi 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
To establish an Intergenerational Bonding (IGB) program that pairs undergraduate students at the University of Nebraska at Kearney with older adults of this rural community, we first tested acceptability and feasibility of such a program. We surveyed both groups to identify their interest level in IGB and identify their common interests in activities. Older adults residing in independent dwellings, assisted living homes, and nursing homes and members of community groups were invited to participate in the survey. However, the response rate was low. Given the restrictions of the pandemic, accessing community older adults was challenging. Internet access was low, which made virtual and digital participation modalities impossible; recruitment from assisted living facilities was not successful; and, establishing collaboration with nursing homes was not easy despite initial interest. Building trust and working with community activity group facilitators was ultimately beneficial in recruiting older adults. Collaboration with community-based organizations facilitated the study.
SEVEN YEARS OF IMPLEMENTING AN INTERGENERATIONAL PROGRAM WITH UNIVERSITY/COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Authors: Leedahl Skye , Estus Erica , Souza Kristin Fratoni , Capolino Alexandria 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The University of Rhode Island Engaging Generations Cyber-Seniors Program was first implemented in the fall semester of 2015. URI students from 15+ majors have supported the digital competency of older adults in Rhode Island each semester and summer session since its inception. Gradually over time, we modified and expanded this in-person program to meet student, older adult, community partner, and faculty needs. The pandemic led to our program expanding exponentially due to new grant funding opportunities, new partnerships, and student interest. This presentation will address strengths and challenges of implementing this program state-wide in a small, mostly urban state with community partners, mostly involving senior centers. We will describe moving from in-person to phone/virtual and now to a hybrid model. Last, we will explain the program’s efforts to conduct formative and summative evaluation research to assess program output and examine outcomes for students and older adults in the program.
GENE REGULATION IN AGING
Authors: Mendenhall Alexander 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
The regulation of genes can both influence aging, and be influenced by the aging process itself. That is, the rate of aging can be altered by changing the gene expression program. And, the aging process itself causes changes in gene expression, including the ways in which genes are regulated. Understanding the consequences of differences in gene expression on aging rate, and the consequences of aging on gene regulation will continue to have profound impacts on our ability to manipulate the aging process. This symposium on gene regulation in aging will focus on how genes are regulated by the aging process and can be regulated differently to affect the aging process. We have an expert on the regulation of gene expression in the immortal germline and soma of the hydra, Dr. Celina Juliano. Dr. Roger Brent is an expert on the mechanisms of cell to cell variation in gene expression. Dr. Monica Driscoll is an expert on both the genetics of aging and gene expression changes with age. Finally, Dr. Alex Mendenhall’s studies are focused on understanding intrinsic (epigenetic) variation in the regulation of gene expression as a cause and consequence of aging. Together these experts will present their research as it relates to gene regulation and the aging process.
HOW THE SAME GENETIC PROGRAM RUNS DIFFERENTLY IN INDIVIDUAL ANIMALS TO AFFECT AGING AND DISEASE
Authors: Mendenhall Alexander , Sands Bryan , Yun Soo 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Monozygotic human twins will age at different rates. The same is true for isogenic laboratory animals. Some of these differences in the rates of aging are caused by differences in the expression of genes. And, some of the differences in gene expression between isogenic individuals are caused by seemingly non-heritable, stochastic epigenetic differences. Here we discuss how differences in chaperone expression can influence aging and a model of Ras-driven neoplasia risk and survival in the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. We review evidence suggesting differences in epigenetic silencing machinery contribute to differences in chaperone gene expression. We suggest models for germline and somatic epigenetic regulation of chaperones. We discuss potential means of targeted epigenome modification, and potential implications for human health during aging.