bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
FORTIFYING GERIATRIC CARE AND RESEARCH: THE VHA ADVANCED FELLOWSHIP IN GERIATRICS
Authors: Hall Katherine , Addison Odessa , Howe Judith 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Geriatric care often involves addressing complex medical, social, and behavioral needs that require input from multiple disciplines. A robust workforce with geriatric specialties is essential to ensure that older adults receive the comprehensive care and support necessary for optimal aging. Despite the growing demand, there is a significant shortage of providers working in geriatric care, exacerbating the strain on existing resources. One way to address this shortage may be through the Advanced Fellowship in Geriatrics (AFiG), a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) program overseen by the Office of Academic Affiliations (OAA). The AFiG is a 2-year, postgraduate (post-residency, post-doctoral, post-masters) training program, offered to clinicians and non-clinician scientists, that prepares leaders in geriatric research, education, and clinical innovation. Fellows are hosted in Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Centers (GRECC) in 20 VA medical centers across the country, providing a rich combination of clinical rotations, didactic education, and research opportunities. Fellows gain expertise in identifying and addressing the unique healthcare needs of older adults, particularly within the veteran population. This fellowship provides participants with a wealth of advanced training topics including management of multiple chronic conditions, population health and health promotion, models of care, policy initiatives, and interdisciplinary collaboration. This symposium features presentations from 1) AFiG leadership, 2) GRECC leadership, and 3) facilitated discussion with an interprofessional cohort of current/former Fellows to share the breadth of clinical and research experiences in the AFiG.
GSA JOURNALS PANEL WITH THE EDITORS-IN-CHIEF
Authors: Kelley Jessica , Lipsitz Lewis 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
GSA has a large portfolio of journals, giving authors opportunities to publish research on aging, from cells to policy. In this panel session, the current Editors-in-Chief will present information about their respective journal, including the scope, areas of special interest, and upcoming calls for papers. Following their remarks, we will have a moderated panel session with tips for submitting work, matching your research to the best-fitting journal, and strategies for success in the review process. Ample time will be given to audience questions. Editors will include: Steven Albert, Innovation in Aging; Gustavo Duque, Journal of Gerontology: Biological Sciences; Joe Gaugler, The Gerontologist; Duke Han, Journal of Gerontology: Psychological Sciences; Jessica Kelley, Journal of Gerontology: Social Sciences; Michael Lepore, Public Policy and Aging Research; and Lewis Lipsitz, Journal of Gerontology: Medical Sciences.
HARNESSING ADVANCES IN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO SUPPORT AN AGING POPULATION
Authors: Boot Walter , Lin Xin Yao 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
We are witnessing unprecedented growth in the sophistication of artificial intelligence (AI) and its rapid diffusion into all aspects of our lives. This session will focus on the potential and pitfalls of using AI to support the health, wellbeing, and quality of life of older people. Dr. Clara Berridge will contribute a big-picture discussion of outstanding ethical issues in AI, including large language model (LLM) tools, and provide an organized framework to promote the benefits of AI while minimizing ethical concerns. Dr. Shelia Cotten will discuss the integration of AI in healthcare, focusing on stakeholder acceptance and ethical concerns, and present suggestions to advance AI acceptance based on a scoping review of AI-enabled devices in diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation settings. Dr. Catherine Diaz-Asper will address the ethical challenges of language technologies in AI, highlighting issues of transparency, equity, and bias, and propose methods to boost user trust, particularly among older adults, through stakeholder co-design and user-friendly interfaces. Zhimeng Luo, MS, will explore the capabilities of large multimodal models (LMMs) to interpret healthcare infographics for dementia caregivers, demonstrating their accuracy and completeness and suggesting implications for content generation and health education material design. Dr. Lin Jiang will examine the use of artificial intelligence in supporting Alzheimer’s and dementia family caregivers, presenting findings from mixed-methods research that evaluates AI’s role in providing emotional and social support, and discussing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and caregiver involvement in AI development.
PROMOTING USER TRUST IN AI: THE CASE OF LANGUAGE TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: Diaz-Asper Catherine , Chandler Chelsea , Elvevåg Brita 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Advancements in artificial intelligence technology make it possible for computers to recognize, analyze and generate human language in ways that were not possible even five years ago. Approaches such as automated speech analysis, natural language processing, acoustic analysis and machine learning have successfully been applied in various contexts, from clinical research studies predicting cognitive decline in older adults, to chatbots that simulate conversations with users from voice or text input. As speech and language can be easily and rapidly accessed at relatively low cost, these methods hold significant potential for large scale use in commercial, medical and research applications. However, several ethical challenges arise with the use of natural language and speech processing technologies, including issues of transparency, equity and bias, potentially eroding user trust in such tools. For example, language expression varies as a function of demographic factors such as age, culture and education, yet many applications based on these technologies fail to take this into account. The result is that groups who are underrepresented in the data used to train machine learning models are at risk of being unfairly and inaccurately assessed by them. Mistrust can be further exacerbated in groups with reduced knowledge and familiarity with artificial intelligence, as may be the case with older adults and/or those with cognitive complaints. In highlighting both the optimism and challenges of using language technologies with older adults, we present several approaches to encourage confidence in their use, including stakeholder co-design, user guides and graphical interfaces.
IMPROVING HEALTH EQUITY BY ENHANCING ACCESS TO TECHNOLOGY FOR OLDER ADULTS IN RURAL AREAS
Authors: Freeman Shannon , Hoffman Rashelle , Hoffman Rashelle 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic generated unprecedented acceleration in the adoption of technology (from digital apps and wearable sensors to robotics and artificial intelligence) in rural areas. However, this rapid digitalization across the care continuum was characterized by inequitable distribution, implementation, and unsustainability in rural healthcare settings. Although health is a fundamental human right, there are many dimensions of inequality, including sex, gender, ethnicity, and disability, that are amplified in rural healthcare settings. This symposium will showcase how research has supported the identification, implementation, and sustainment of innovative technology solutions to enhance health equity in rural settings (Freeman). With the cumulative shift to virtual delivery of health care services, there is need to ensure equitable access to infrastructure and resources to address existing technology gaps which disproportionally affect older adults living in rural communities (Clayton-Jones). Additionally, with the expanding breadth of technology applications being used by older adults, this symposium will showcase the positive technological impacts such as autonomous vehicles (Yoon), smartwatches (Wiese), and eReaders (Agboji) to enhance health equity for older adults. Rural Aging Interest Group Sponsored Symposium
ATTITUDES TOWARD AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES IN RURAL OLDER ADULTS: IMPLICATIONS FOR ENHANCING ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE
Authors: Yoon Jong Sung , Gandy Tyler , Zoaktafi Mojgan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Despite the potential of autonomous vehicles (AVs) to enhance health equity in rural areas, there is still a lack of understanding in rural older adults’ attitudes toward AVs. Most previous studies have identified rural older adults by relying on online survey samples, which might include individuals more likely to embrace technology and, consequently, show more favorable attitudes to AVs. Thus, the current study directly recruited a sample from rural areas (n = 120; older adults: 60+ yrs, young adults: 17 – 21yrs) to investigate two main questions: 1) whether rural older adults show negative attitudes towards AVs, and 2) whether rural older adults show positive attitudes toward AVs if they are proficient enough with technology. Based on a 16-item attitude survey which uncovered three attitudinal factors (i.e., concern with AVs, willingness to adopt AVs, confidence in AVs over human driving), we first confirmed lower willingness to adopt AVs in rural older adults compared to rural young adults (p &lt;.01). However, in contrast to most previous studies using non-rural samples, we found neither higher concern about AVs nor lower confidence in AVs among rural older adults. Our regressions further demonstrated that higher technology proficiency predicted positive attitudes toward AVs over and above other demographic factors. The results suggest that rural older adults’ reluctance to adopt AVs may not be driven solely by concern with AVs, but rather by other reasons. We discuss the findings regarding the dissemination of AVs for enhancing access to health care for rural older adults.
BOUNCING BACK: THE TEMPORARY IMPACT OF THE PANDEMIC ON OLDER ADULTS’ PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING
Authors: Zaninotto Paola , Iob Eleonora , Scholes Shaun , Steptoe Andrew 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The aim of this work is to explore the changes from 2018 to 2022 in happiness, life satisfaction and life worthwhile among 3,999 people aged 50 and over in England participants of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. They were followed over a critical period of time covering the pre-pandemic, early pandemic, later pandemic, and post-pandemic years. We observed decreases in all aspects of psychological well-being during the pandemic, which were partly independent of changes in depression. Following the pandemic, positive wellbeing returned to pre-pandemic levels. This indicates that the deterioration in wellbeing was relatively short-term and not a permanent change. Indeed, for two of the measures (life satisfaction and meaning in life), the post-pandemic levels are higher than pre-pandemic. Important variations by gender and wealth were found, with greater deterioration during the pandemic among women, and larger decreases in more affluent groups. All subgroups show recovery after the pandemic.
RESILIENCE: A “CURE” FOR OR A “RESPONSE” TO AGING?
Authors: Fang Chao , Comery Alastair , Carpentieri J D 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Resilience is often perceived as an intrinsic ability to adapt to challenges. Grounded in the human psyche, research commonly depicts it as a self-defence mechanism, enabling people to navigate and overcome adversity. Sociological thinking questions this view, suggesting that resilience should not merely involve adaptation but also foster positive change in challenging situations. This perspective criticises resilience for potentially reinforcing a neoliberal ideology, shifting welfare responsibility from the state to individuals. Using longitudinal qualitative data from people over 50 with Long COVID in the UK, we argue that resilience is an embodied construction rooted in life narratives and framed by social dynamics. Examining three in-depth case studies with distinctive resilience trajectories—decline, improvement, and persistence—between 2021-23, we explore resilience amidst the challenges of Long COVID and ageing. Inherent resilience is not always stable or positive; it operates like the immune system, resisting disruptions amid the challenges of ageing and the struggles of navigating everyday life. By presenting data from people approaching the third age (early 50s) to those in their 60s and 70s, we argue that resilience is rooted in narrative identity, maintaining consistency in life plots. It involves drawing on past experiences, developing a flexible future outlook, and living for the present while navigating Long COVID. Our analysis uncovers the existential dimension of resilience in old age, a constant questioning of one’s existence through their body and health. It highlights how social support can alleviate such challenges, contributing to our understanding and support for the complex nature of ageing.
IMMERSIVE DEMENTIA EXPERIENCE: TRANSFORMING DEMENTIA CARE
Authors: O’Malley Kelly , Correa Seneca , Boyle Julie , Stavrakopolous Dawn , Resendes Kelly , Quinlan Olga , Smith Amanda 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Virtual Dementia Tour (VDT) is an empirically supported training designed to build an understanding of dementia through use of sensory tools and instruction. Trained facilitators guide participants outfitted with devices that alter their senses while they try to complete everyday tasks. The VDT enables participants to experience the physical and mental challenges those with dementia face in order to improve person-centered care. Clinicians (e.g., nurses, nursing assistants, physical and occupational therapists, social workers, psychologists; N = 155) at a Veterans Health Administration facility completed the VDT and provided quantitative and qualitative feedback regarding their satisfaction with the VDT, and the impact this training would have on the care they provide. Participants reported a significant change in their belief that individuals with dementia receive the care they need (83.8% pre, 16.3% post p &lt;.001), indicating that post-training participants felt that individuals with dementia frequently do NOT receive the care they need. The majority (92%) said the experience would change their clinical care practices. Participants strongly agreed that the VDT allowed them to experience what dementia feels like, developed a better understanding of dementia care needs (M =4.66, SD=.51), reinforced or increased their level of knowledge of dementia (M =4.66, SD=.53), and will integrate this in the day-to-day care of person’s with dementia (M = 4.64, SD=.50). Qualitative responses expanded on these findings. The VDT was acceptable to VA direct care staff and is an effective way to build understanding of the needs of older Veterans living with dementia.
INTERVENTIONS TO PREVENT ELDER MISTREATMENT WITH FAMILY CAREGIVERS OF PERSONS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Meyer Kylie , Yonashiro-Cho Jeanine , Puga Frank 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Persons living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are among the most vulnerable to elder mistreatment and neglect (EM). Family caregivers, who often enter this role with minimal preparation or support, are among the most likely to engage in EM. In this symposium, we describe novel interventions to prevent EM by family caregivers of persons living with dementia. In the first talk, Dr. Jablonski will describe the Coaching Dementia Caregivers to Master Care-Resistant Behavior (CuRB-IT) intervention, which uses 1:1 Zoom coaching to help caregivers respond to care-resistant behaviors. This includes a discussion of preliminary findings on intervention acceptability. Next, Dr. Meyer will provide results from a pilot study of the Knowledge and Interpersonal Skills to Develop Enhanced Relationships (KINDER) intervention, a group-based psychoeducation intervention to prevent EM by focusing on the care relationship. Dr. Wilber will then discuss secondary results from the double-blinded trial of the Comprehensive Older Adult and Caregiver Help (COACH), which was informed by family violence interventions. She will discuss the perplexing finding wherein risk factors for abuse were largely unaffected by the COACH intervention despite the elimination of mistreatment in this arm. Lastly, Dr. Yonashiro-Cho will describe basic behavioral research drawn from the Better Together study to inform a culturally tailored version of the EM prevention program that addresses the needs of Asian American and/or Pacific Islander family caregivers. These studies represent multiple stages of intervention development, and each addresses an emerging area of research to prevent elder mistreatment within a dementia care context.
COACHING DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS TO MASTER CARE-RESISTANT BEHAVIOR: CURB-IT
Authors: Jablonski Rita , Puga Frank , Shan Liang , Mosqueda Laura 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Care-resistant behavior (CRB) refers to actions taken by people living with dementia to avoid receiving assistance or completing care activities. At least 66% of family caregivers encounter CRBs. The purpose of this study is to test the efficacy of Care-Resistant Behavior Internet Training intervention, CuRB-IT, on caregiver problem-solving coping skills. We hypothesize that improved skills will prevent and decrease elder abuse and neglect behaviors. Participants are randomized to either immediate coaching or delayed coaching. The nine 1-hour coaching sessions are done via Zoom; weekly for six weeks, then biweekly for six weeks. Each coaching session includes a description of 3-4 strategies, a simple physiologic rationale for the utility of the strategies, role-playing between the coach and participant, and concludes with the coach sending a written behavioral plan. Participants receive a detailed workbook that includes strategy descriptions, case studies, and exercises. The coaching sessions are highly scripted with algorithmic responses and prompts for open-ended questions. Participants complete questionnaires and daily diaries upon enrollment and at three 12-week intervals. Forty-three caregivers have been enrolled (goal, 266); 35% African-American, 29% male; 54% spouses and 39% adult children. Thirteen have completed all the coaching sessions. The care recipients were functionally dependent and in the moderate stage of dementia. On a 1 (highly disagree) to 5 (highly agree) scale, participants provided positive evaluations. The coaches helped participants understand causes of CRB (mean,4.6), they found the strategies useful for preventing (4.4) and managing (4.4) CRBs and would recommend this coaching program to other dementia caregivers (4.8).
PREVENTING ELDER MISTREATMENT THROUGH THE COACH INTERVENTION: WHAT’S RISK GOT TO DO WITH IT?
Authors: Wilber Kathleen , Gassoumis Zachary , Batista-Malat Eleanor 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Comprehensive Older Adult and Caregiver Help (COACH) program was developed based on effective family-focused approaches from child maltreatment and intimate partner violence. Building on evidence-based prevention strategies, COACH offered from three to 12 sessions with a trained care coach. Sessions used a person-centered strength-based approach designed to help caregivers to reduce stress and burden, seek additional outside support, and better understand and manage the symptoms and experiences of people living with dementia. An evaluation of COACH using a double-blind, randomized controlled trial found a significant reduction in the treatment group compared to no change in the control group. However, no change in risk or protective factors were noted with the exception of social support. This session will explore these findings in relationship to what was learned about risk and protective factors as means to identify and address abuse. Findings suggest that risk and protective factors are helpful to identify and support those at risk of abusing, while other strategies should be considered and tested in developing interventions to prevent and address elder mistreatment.
JOSEPH T. FREEMAN AWARD AND EXCELLENCE IN REHABILITATION OF AGING PERSONS AWARD PRESENTATIONS AND LECTURES
Authors: Corazzini Kirsten 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Joseph T. Freeman Award lecture will feature an address by the 2024 Freeman Award recipient Ali Ahmed, MD, FGSA of the Washing DC VA Medical Center and the 2024 Excellence in Rehabilitation of Aging Persons Award recipient Roger A. Fielding, PhD, FGSA of Tufts University. The Joseph T. Freeman Award is a lectureship in geriatrics awarded to a prominent clinician in the field of aging, both in research and practice. The award was established in 1977 through a bequest from a patient’s estate as a tribute to Dr. Joseph T. Freeman. The Excellence in Rehabilitation of Aging Persons Award is designed to acknowledge outstanding contributions in the field of the rehabilitation of aging individuals.
THE PERSISTENCE OF COMBAT-RELATED PTSD AMONG MALE VIETNAM WAR VETERANS
Authors: Spiro Avron , Kaiser Anica Pless , Smith Brian , Stellman Jeanne , Stellman Steven 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The US involvement in the Vietnam War ended 50 years ago, yet many who served in that conflict, especially those who served in combat, continue to carry the impact of their military service into their later lives. For many those impacts have been positive, and for others the negative impacts have dissipated over time. However, for a sizable minority the long-term repercussions of combat deployment during their youth continue to reverberate across the lifespan. We present data on 507 male Vietnam combat veterans who were American Legion members. They were surveyed by mail in 1984, 1998, and 2020. We examined (1) patterns of PTSD over time, (2) the relation of combat exposure to these patterns, and (3) the impact of these PTSD patterns on health in later life. First, 56% of the sample did not meet PTSD criteria at any time; 25% evidenced fluctuating subthreshold PTSD, 10% had prior but not current PTSD, and 9% met criteria for current PTSD in 2020. Second, the strong dose-response relationship between combat exposure and PTSD symptoms first reported in 1988 has persisted over nearly a half-century. Finally, we found that the pattern of persistent PTSD in later life was associated with greater depression, anxiety, and disability, and with worse health functioning, and more mental health utilization. These observations extend to veterans with subthreshold PTSD as well. Across their lifetime since returning from Vietnam, a substantial number of US veterans continue to experience PTSD and its negative impact on their health and well-being.