bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
BEYOND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: ALASKA NATIVE CONCEPTS OF PHYSICAL HEALTH, MOVEMENT, AND SUCCESSFUL AGING
Authors: Pedersen Maja , Kim Steffi , Thompson Lena , Lewis Jordan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Physical health is a key component of Western-centered models of successful aging. Physical movement in the form of exercise and functional activities are described in the literature as strategies to maintain health through reduced risk for falls, pain, and chronic disease, and to increase quality of life. However, physical health may not be consistently conceptualized across cultures, and few studies have explored this topic among Alaska Native (AN) older adults. We used thematic analysis to evaluate physical health in qualitative interviews with 162 AN Elders across the five regions of Alaska, collected over 16 years. Five overall themes were identified. (1) Elders described recognizing physical changes in their bodies, including gray hairs, or wrinkles. These changes were often seen as signs associated with wisdom. (2) Elders described that, despite physically slowing down, they adjusted tasks to do as much as possible, and found small ways to include daily movement. (3) Elders emphasized the importance of caring for oneself when young, including avoiding substance use. (4) Elders recommended addressing health challenges with a doctor, rather than ignoring them. (5) Elders described physical health as closely tied to living one’s Native ways, including physical activity through a subsistence lifestyle (e.g., gathering, hunting, fishing), relationship with the land, and benefits from eating Native foods. Overall, Elders found ways to preserve their physical health during challenging times and adjust to new norms. These findings can guide the development and tailoring of interventions designed to promote physical health among AN Elders for relevance and impact.
CHARACTERISTICS ASSOCIATED WITH PRIMARY CARE–BASED DEMENTIA SCREENING VISIT COMPLETION IN THE ERADAR STUDY
Authors: Karliner Leah , Dublin Sascha , Coley Yates , Hsu Clarissa , Barrett Tyler , Barnes Deborah 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Nearly 7 million people in the U.S. are living with dementia, but approximately half are undiagnosed. We are performing a randomized, controlled trial in two healthcare systems (Kaiser Permanent Washington-KPWA, University of California San Francisco-UCSF) of targeted dementia screening. Among primary care patients ≥ age 65, high-risk individuals are identified using a predictive algorithm, eRADAR (electronic health record Risk of Alzheimer’s and Dementia Assessment Rule), and invited for a “brain health” screening visit (BHV). Among 1709 KPWA patients in the intervention group, 506 (30%) completed a BHV; ongoing UCSF recruitment is similar (N=68/221; 31%). Visit completion rates were lower for participants of color (Asian/Black/Latinx) at 18% (N=51/336) compared with non-Hispanic whites at 34% (N=446/1,313), adjusted OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.26-0.49. Completion rates were 33% (N=30/90) among people aged 65-74 vs. 16% (N=44/268) for those aged 90+, adjusted OR per decade 0.71, 95% CI 0.56-0.90. Prior diagnoses of memory problems/concerns or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) were associated with higher odds of completion (adjusted OR 1.49; CI 1.13-1.95), and so was lower comorbidity score (adjusted OR 1.01; CI 1.00-1.03). eRADAR score and gender were not associated with BHV completion. The eRADAR study participation rate is similar to other dementia screening studies. Younger, white patients and those who might be aware of their cognitive deficits–as demonstrated by prior diagnoses–appear more likely to participate. As disease-modifying treatments increasingly become available, further research with communities of color to understand facilitators and barriers to engagement in primary-care dementia assessment is vital to prevent care disparities.
EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE ON DISPARITIES IN THE RISK OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND RELATED DEMENTIAS
Authors: Akushevich Igor , Yashkin Arseniy , Bona Vito Di , Kravchenko Julia 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Chronic exposures to a range of environmental contaminants, in particular fine particulate matter (PM2.5), have been shown to be associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (AD/ADRD). However, causal relationships between the effects of ambient air pollutants (especially for low-to-moderate-level exposures) and PM2.5 constituents on AD/ADRD risk remain understudied in both the general population and vulnerable population groups in the U.S. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of exposures to PM2.5 and PM2.5 constituents (including black carbon, NH4, SO4, trace elements, and some others), test the causality of contaminant-outcome associations, and explain the epidemiological mechanisms of these causal pathways. To address this objective, we used Medicare-claims data and zip-code-level environmental data provided by the Socioeconomic Data and Applications Center (SEDAC) including daily and annual estimates of the concentrations of PM2.5 for 2000-2016, and trace elements including bromine, calcium, copper, aluminum, iron, lead, nickel, potassium, silicon, vanadium, and zinc. We reconstructed the concentration-response patterns of exposures to ambient contaminants on AD/ADRD risk and applied the parametric g-formula approach to test the causality of detected effects. We evaluated the concentration-response functions for all contaminants and found deviations from the linear dependence for concentrations above 10 µg/m3 (WHO standards) and for the Hispanic subpopulation. The highest risks were found for Native Americans, with a hazard ratio (HR) vs. White subpopulation exceeding HR&gt;3 over the full range of average concentrations (5-12 µg/m3 for PM2.5). NH4, SO4 and lead demonstrated the highest effect among constituents of PM2.5.
“HOW WILL I EVER KNOW I DIDN’T BRING IT ON MYSELF?”: PERCEIVED PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY IN DEMENTIA RISK
Authors: Peckham Allie , Maxfield Molly , James Dara 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
As public health messages increasingly emphasize the importance of “lifestyle interventions” to reduce dementia risk, our study aimed to explore how community dwelling middle-aged and older adults perceive this information. Here, our focus is on understanding how information around lifestyle interventions influences individuals’ perceptions of their control over health in relation to dementia risk. Our study further investigated how these health-promoting interventions might unintentionally contribute to ‘lifestyle stigma’ for individuals diagnosed with dementia. Through a secondary framework analysis of 50 semi-structured interviews, we found that participants showed a sense of personal responsibility towards engaging in lifestyle interventions to lower their chances of dementia. To interpret our findings, we relied on the concepts of locus of control and attribution theory. Of the 50 participants, we discovered that 23 participants discussed dementia risk, and 13 felt a degree of personal responsibility for their dementia risk. Four believed they had personal responsibility and control and actively engaged in lifestyle interventions. The remaining nine participants also engaged in lifestyle interventions, aiming to find comfort in the potential event of a dementia diagnosis. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of dementia risk, including environmental and external factors beyond individual control, is essential to communicating effectively and combating ‘lifestyle stigma’ that is becoming increasingly associated with the condition. By acknowledging the interplay between individual, social, and societal factors, we can develop more inclusive and effective public health strategies and messages to reduce dementia risk and promote overall well-being.
A MOSAIC OF RESILIENCE: INDIVIDUAL AND SOCIAL FACTORS FOR AGING WELL AMONG DIVERSE OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Cozad Aisha , Burton Cassandra Cantave , Farago Fanni 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and continuing extreme weather events, the resilience of older adults in the areas of health and disaster management and preparedness are critical areas of study. As shown by AARP survey research, self-reported happiness and emotional well-being and resiliency is high among older adults, including across racial and ethnic groups. At the same time, these studies also demonstrate that many older adults have trouble bouncing back from hardships and feel concerned about the possibility of declining health and their ability to live independently. In related AARP research, survey data illuminates the crucial role that quality relationships and community features, including affordable and accessible housing, healthcare, and opportunities for social engagement, play in providing structural supports for older adults to age well in their homes and communities. Drawing on multiple AARP survey studies, this presentation will explore different aspects of resilience in aging among diverse communities of older adults, including those who identify as Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, or LGBTQ.
SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA IN MEXICO
Authors: Lopez-Ortega Mariana , Garcia-Chanes Rosa 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Dementia is one of the most common causes of disability and dependence in the world and is a frequent reason that older people require supportive living situations. In Mexico, Alzheimer’s and other dementias represent the fifth main cause of DALYS (disability-adjusted life-years) and it is estimated that there were approximately 1 626 000 persons living with dementia. However, the health system is not prepared to adequately provide diagnosis, post-diagnosis care as well as care support at home for people living with dementia and their family caregivers. In addition, economic conditions of a large number of older persons is precarious given a life of informal work with no benefits or access to a contributory pension in old age and whose sole income is a small non-contributory pension and relying on children or other close relatives to provide financial and in-kind support, as well as all other health and personal care. The aim of this study is to characterise the support received by a sample of older adults in Mexico. We use the Mexican Health and Aging Study 2016 wave which for the first time included the Mex-Cog Wave 1 a detailed cognitive assessment. This allows for a detailed characterisation of support received by people living with dementia and to compare it with the support available and received by older adults with no impairment. The results allow for specific recommendations for further support programs and activities that focus on areas of need and currently not covered either by public or family supports.
INTERNET USE AMONG BRAZILIANS ADULTS IN LATE LIFE: DETERMINANTS OF USE AND IMPACTS ON COGNITIVE HEALTH
Authors: Chen Xiayu , Farina Mateo , Andrade Flávia , Wang Kun 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Growing numbers of older adults use the Internet daily, suggesting its potential to improve general cognitive functioning, memory, and verbal fluency. Yet, a significant gap exists in understanding the association between Internet use and cognitive health within low- and middle-income countries. This study addresses this gap and evaluates the association between Internet use and cognitive health among Brazilian older adults using data from the second wave of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging(ELSI-Brazil). Multivariate linear regressions were employed to evaluate the association of Internet use with cognitive function, memory, and verbal fluency. Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition was conducted to estimate and decompose the cognitive health disparity between Internet users and non-users. Our finding suggested that about 17% of the older adults in the sample were Internet users, and 69% of them use the Internet on a daily basis. Internet use was positively associated with general cognitive functioning (β=0.14, 95% CI 0.07-0.20) and memory (β =0.19, 95% CI 0.10-0.28), accounting for demographic, social, geographical, and health factors. The daily Internet use was positively associated with general cognitive function (β=0.14, 95% CI 0.06-0.22) and memory (β=0.19, 95% CI 0.09-0.29). However, no statistically significant association was found between Internet use, use frequency and verbal fluency. Our study has also found that educational and health attainment significantly explains the cognitive health disparity between Internet users and non-users among Brazilian older adults. The findings underscore the need for targeted strategies to bridge the digital divide and enhance cognitive health, particularly among socioeconomically and health-disadvantaged groups in Brazil.
MAPPING 15-YEAR DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOM TRANSITIONS IN LATE LIFE: A POPULATION-BASED COHORT STUDY
Authors: Triolo Federico , Vetrano Davide Liborio , Trevisan Caterina , Sjöberg Linnea , Calderón-Larrañaga Amaia , Murri Martino Belvederi , Fratiglioni Laura , Dekhtyar Serhiy 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
As the longitudinal course of late-life depression remains unclear, we aimed to describe transitions along the depression continuum, and identify factors associated with specific transition patterns. We analysed 15-year longitudinal data on 2745 dementia-free persons aged 60+ from the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care in Kungsholmen. Depression (minor and major) was diagnosed according to DSM-IV-TR; subsyndromal depression (SSD) was operationalized as the presence of ≥2 symptoms without depression. Multistate survival models were used to map depression transitions, including death, and to examine the association of psychosocial (social network, connection, and support), lifestyle (smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical activity), and clinical (somatic disease count) factors with transition patterns. Over the follow-up, 19.1% had ≥1 transitions across depressive states, while 6.5% had ≥2. Each additional somatic disease was associated with a higher hazard of progression from no depression to SSD (HR 1.09; 1.07-1.10) and depression (HR 1.06; 1.04-1.08), but also with a lower recovery (HRSSD-NoDep 0.95; 0.93-0.97; HRDep-NoDep 0.96; 0.93-0.99). Physical activity was associated with an increased hazard of recovery to no depression from SSD (HR 1.49; 1.28-1.73) and depression (HR 1.20; 1.00-1.44), while richer social network was associated with both higher recovery (HRSSD-NoDep 1.44; 1.26-1.66; HRDep-NoDep 1.51; 1.34-1.71), and lower progression hazards (HRNoDep-SSD 0.81; 0.70-0.94; HRNoDep-Dep 0.58; 0.46-0.73; HRSSD-Dep 0.66; 0.44-0.98). Older people may present with heterogeneous depressive trajectories. Targeting the accumulation of somatic diseases and enhancing social interactions may be appropriate for both depression prevention and burden reduction, while promoting physical activity may benefit recovery from depressive disorders.
FINDING FORTITUDE: SOCIAL CONVOYS OVER THE LONG HAUL
Authors: Hu Rita , Ajrouch Kristine , Wethington Elaine 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
As populations globally face the opportunities and challenges of aging, social convoys across the lifespan are pivotal in navigating the complexities of later life. This symposium explores the dynamic interplay between social relations and aging, emphasizing the protective and predictive nature of social networks over the lifespan and in different cultural contexts. Becheroui and colleagues explore familial care in Lebanon across age groups, focusing on the balance between cultural expectations and the need for policy support. Antonucci and colleagues examine how socioeconomic status affects changes in health through social relations, particularly the influence of parent-child dynamics among men and women. Hu and colleagues also provide a longitudinal perspective, showing how social network trajectories over nearly three decades influence later-life cognitive health, emphasizing the enduring importance of weaker ties for cognitive health later in life. Webster and colleagues present evidence of how educational attainment within one’s social network at one point in time contributes to cognitive health later in life, pointing to the broader implications of social environments on cognitive well-being. Aimed at fostering a comprehensive understanding of social convoys in the aging process, this symposium invites a cross-disciplinary dialogue to enhance the support for aging individuals worldwide, embodying the symposium’s theme of finding fortitude through the power of social relationships.
CITY LIGHTS OR COUNTRYSIDE NIGHTS? RURALITY’S ROLE ON ANXIETY AND SLEEP IN MID- TO LATE-LIFE
Authors: Costa Amy , Halder Puja , McCrae Christina , Curtis Ashley 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Anxiety and sleep health associations are well studied but contributing factors (e.g., level of rurality) to health disparities in this relationship are understudied, particularly in aging populations. The present study examined the moderating impact of rurality on associations between anxiety and aspects of sleep health in middle-aged and older adults living in the United States. Cognitively healthy middle-aged and older adults (N=251; Mage=64.7±7.9 years) completed an online survey measuring residence zip code, Pre-Sleep Arousal Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale. Multiple regression and simple slope analyses examined whether rurality (rural vs. non-rural; coded by Delineating Core Based Statistical Areas) moderated associations between anxiety and sleep, controlling for age, sex, education, income, depression, medication usage, and nutritional status (Mini-Nutritional Assessment). Results revealed rurality moderated the association between anxiety and cognitive pre-sleep arousal (R2 change=.014, p=.01) and sleep disturbances (R2 change=.01, p=.04). Higher anxiety was associated with higher cognitive pre-sleep arousal, with an ~2x larger association for rural (B=.64, p&lt;.0001) than non-rural (B=.35, p=.0002) participants. Similarly, higher anxiety was associated with more sleep disturbances for rural (B=.05, p&lt;.001), than non-rural participants. In mid-to-late life, those living in rural areas may be more vulnerable to the impact of higher anxiety on worse sleep compared to those living in non-rural areas. Findings point to the need for a greater understanding of socioeconomic determinants of health and more tailored treatments, with potential emphasis on mitigating barriers impacting rural access to clinical treatments for anxiety and sleep health.
PREVALENCE AND THE ASSOCIATED FACTORS OF MULTIMORBIDITY AMONG OLDER NEPALIS IN WESTERN NEPAL
Authors: Tuladhar Lirisha , Sapkota Krishna , Kafle Bharat , Bhattarai Preeti , Bhattarai Pratik , Shrestha Aman 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Multimorbidity, the concurrent presence of multiple chronic diseases, is a global public health issue, with higher prevalence rates observed among older age groups and individuals of lower socioeconomic status. This study aims to determine the prevalence of morbidity levels and the associated factors across all three ecological regions of Western Nepal. Utilizing a community-based cross-sectional design, 612 participants were interviewed face-to-face. Levels of morbidity were grouped as “no morbidity,” “single disease,” and “multiple diseases.” Ordinal logistic regression examined the association between levels of morbidities and various sociodemographic, economic, and health behavior factors. Probabilities models were cumulated over the higher-ordered levels of morbidity. Among sociodemographic variables, participants of urban residents (OR=1.68, CI: 1.16—2.44), of age 70 years and above (OR=1.55, CI: 1.10—2.17), females (OR=2.43, CI:1.61—3.66) and with disability (OR=1.58, CI:1.14—2.18) were associated with increased odds of being in a higher category (increasing morbidity) rather than lower category than their respective counterparts after adjusting for the covariates. Economic factors did not establish significant relationships with morbidity levels. Among health behavior factors, those who consumed alcohol had 41% decreased odds of higher morbidity compared to non-consumers (OR=0.59 CI:0.37—0.92). This study identified significant associations between multimorbidity and specific demographic groups in urban areas, notably older females and individuals with disabilities. It highlights the necessity of providing tailored behavior change information and implementing screening programs to reduce the prevalence of health issues in these populations.
THE ROLE OF HETEROGENEITY IN NEUROCOGNITIVE AGING
Authors: Moreno Sylvain 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Neurocognitive aging research has predominantly adopted a linear approach, categorizing aging populations homogeneously. Researchers like Salthouse argue that this perspective perceives cognitive decline as almost linear from early adulthood. However, emerging findings challenge this view, highlighting significant variability in cognitive aging and proposing different subtyping methods to study the neurocognitive aging population. Our talk will propose a novel subtyping framework inspired by the Orchid and Dandelion theory from Boyce (2005). This new framework introduces a nuanced understanding of cognitive aging, categorizing individuals based on genetic and phenotypic characteristics to better capture the heterogeneity of cognitive abilities as people age. Using extensive datasets such as the UK Biobank and machine learning analytical techniques, our research investigates the impact of environmental factors on distinct cognitive aging subtypes. This approach diverges from the traditional linear models, revealing that lifestyle factors have varying impacts on different cognitive aging subtypes, underscoring the theory’s premise that some individuals (orchids) are more environmentally sensitive, affecting their cognitive aging process. In contrast, others (dandelions) show resilience. This paradigm shift towards recognizing cognitive aging’s inherent heterogeneity offers a more accurate and personalized understanding of aging, emphasizing the importance of subtyping in developing targeted interventions. Our findings advocate for a move beyond the “linear” methodology found in the literature, highlighting the need for a framework that accommodates the heterogeneity of cognitive aging.
JOURNAL OF GERONTOLOGY SOCIAL SCIENCES: FEATURED 2023 EDITOR’S CHOICE ARTICLES
Authors: Kelley Jessica 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Social science inquiry on age, aging, and the life course spans many topics and methodologies. This symposium highlights papers that were selected as Editor’s Choice articles in the Journal of Gerontology Social Sciences in 2023. These papers highlight methodological innovations, important advancements in our state of knowledge in an area, or emerging issues in the study of aging and older adults. Wright et al. compare differences in income pooling between remarried and cohabiting older adults. Taylor et al. present a qualitative study of the ways that kinless older adults navigate a dementia onset. Stokes et al. utilize novel dyadic analysis to explore the interrelationship of loneliness and cognition among married couples over time. Latham Minus et al. document mental and physical health among older adults who are formerly incarcerated, showing differences by gender and race. Al-Rousan et al. examine the relationship between migration history and cognitive functioning among older Arab Americans and refugees.