bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
IMPACT OF COMMUNITY TYPE ON SLEEP HEALTH DISPARITIES IN GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN
Authors: Stearns Melanie , McGovney Kevin , Curtis Ashley , Nadorff Danielle , McCrae Christina 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Grandparents raising grandchildren (GRG) report greater sleep problems than non-caregiving peers. Individuals living in low-income urban areas also report difficulty sleeping due to increased noise, light, and unsafe neighborhoods. However, no studies have examined urbanity’s impact on sleep among GRG and this study fills that gap. Grandparents living in rural (N=50, Mage=56.80), urban (N=59, Mage=53.07), and suburban areas (N=74, Mage=56.03) caring for their grandchild (&gt;17 years old) completed the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI-sleep latency, sleep duration, sleep efficiency, sleep medication, sleep disturbances, and global sleep scales) and indicated their community type (rural, urban, suburban). Two-way ANOVAs evaluated interactions (sleep x community) and main effects. Pairwise comparisons clarified significant differences. Interactions were not significant. There was a significant main effect (p=.047) of community on sleep medication use, sleep disturbances (p=.009), and global sleep problems (p=.012). Urban grandparents reported more sleep medication (M=1.58+\-1.20) than rural (M=1.06+\-1.27; p=.046) or suburban grandparents (M=1.07+\-1.26; p=.026). Urban grandparents reported more sleep disturbance (M=1.63+\-.64) than rural (M=1.25+\-.55; p&lt;.001) or suburban grandparents (M=1.44+\-.53; p=.080). Urban grandparents reported more global sleep problems (M=10.61+\-3.17) than rural (M=8.28+\-3.43; p=.010) or suburban grandparents (M=8.61+\-2.87; p=.010). Results suggest that level of urbanity impacts sleep health disparities among GRG and urban GRG may be at greater risk for sleep problems. More research (e.g., longitudinal) should examine what contributes to increased sleep problems among urban GRG, but these results suggest that behavioral sleep treatment programs should potentially target environmental and socioeconomic factors unique to urban GRG (e.g., increased noise, decreased safety and security, etc.).
THE ASYMMETRIC EFFECTS OF THE INCREASE AND DECEASE IN INTERGENERATIONAL TRANSFERS ON DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS
Authors: Park Sujeong , Kim Jinho 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Despite the existing body of research on the dynamics of intergenerational transfers, there remains a gap in understanding whether decreases and increases in such transfers have differential effects on depressive symptoms among older Korean adults. This study aims to address this gap by examining two key

objectives
(a) exploring the asymmetric effect of intergenerational transfers from children to parents on parental depressive symptoms and (b) investigating whether this asymmetric effect differs by gender. Using seven waves of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing (KLoSA), a novel asymmetric fixed effects model was employed to separately estimate the association for decreases and increases in intergenerational transfers. Our analysis, based on standard fixed effects estimates, uncovered a negative association between intergenerational transfers and depressive symptoms among older adults in Korea. This association was found to be significant solely for mothers, with no significant effect observed for fathers. Moreover, our findings suggest that the asymmetric associations between intergenerational transfers and depressive symptoms are more pronounced for women than for men. Specifically, the asymmetric fixed-effects models revealed that a decrease in intergenerational transfers was linked to increased depressive symptoms among women, whereas an increase in transfers did not show a significant association with depressive symptoms. These results indicate a stronger emotional bond between mothers and their adult children within the Korean context. Given the asymmetric effect of intergenerational transfers, this study contributes to our understanding of the gendered dynamics of intergenerational relationships and their implications for mental well-being among older adults.
INTEGRATING AND IMPROVING MULTIPLE-METHOD RESEARCH IN AGING
Authors: Saunders Pamela , Perone Angela 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
One of the basic tenets of mixed-method and mixed-methods research methodologies is that they integrate qualitative and quantitative data to provide a more holistic understanding of a research question. This interdisciplinary symposium examines several aging research projects to illustrate best practices for integrating and improving multiple methods research projects. We draw on fields including cultural anthropology, discourse analysis, and sociocultural gerontology to examine questions of language, identity, transcription, and homelessness. In a mixed-methods study, Saunders examines the integration of data and analysis from staff interviews, residents’ conversations, and staff ratings of friendship among persons living with dementia in a long-term care setting unit. Crampton examines the value of outliers in a study of how “ old” is defined by people aging into 80+ decades. Dobbs’ paper will discuss the role of AI transcription using smartphone and web-based platform technologies to collect data from older adults and their caregivers. Perone uses a novel multi-method approach to learn about housing models that aim to prevent or intervene in homelessness among LGBTQIA+ older adults. Directors of Aging Centers Interest Group Sponsored Symposium
THE USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TRANSCRIPTION TECHNOLOGY IN CAREGIVER QUALITATIVE DATA COLLECTION
Authors: Dobbs Debra , Yauk Jessica , Meng Hongdao , Jalil Tanjina 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In recent years the use of artificial intelligence (AI) transcription has become more common and has advanced the ability of data collection methods in aging research. This paper presentation includes examples of how AI transcription methods can be implemented into research in multiple ways that has advanced the time to analysis of data and interpretation of qualitative data. The first study example is AI transcription using talk-to-text with an iphone to transcribe handwritten homework assignments from direct caregivers in assisted living in a palliative care education intervention. The second study example is using voice memo AI audio function for assisted living staff interviews in a music group intervention study. The third study uses Microsoft Teams to interview caregivers about advance care planning and end-of-life care quality which produces using AI transcription a transcript of the recorded interview. For each of these AI transcription techniques used in the three studies, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of their utilization in qualitative data collection and analysis including the amount of time and money saved in budgeting for transcription costs and whether it is balanced out by the costs for the technology; issues of privacy and older participants’ willingness to allow researchers to use technologies such as smart phones and web-based platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams and Zoom). We will also discuss the role of technological advancements in qualitative data methods as it relates to the need for technology skill development, privacy and data security.
BUILDING INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA: TAKING THE LEAD FROM LIVED EXPERIENCE
Authors: Phinney Alison , Jackson Lynn , Landy Ania , Sakamoto Mariko 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Social citizenship is increasingly adopted in academic circles as a theoretical perspective foregrounding the rights of people with dementia to full participation in their community. However, what this means in practice is poorly understood. Using methods of participatory action research and developmental evaluation, our team conducted a four-year study to learn what social citizenship means from the perspective of people with lived experience, and to put that understanding into action through community programs and services. In phase one, an action group of people with dementia identified stigma as their main concern, and together with the research team co-developed an online toolkit to raise awareness and “flip stigma on its ear”. In phase two, the toolkit was shared with community stakeholders who provided formative feedback, and the team conducted implementation sessions to explore the toolkit’s impact for community programs and services who wanted to be more dementia inclusive. Analysis of interviews with stakeholders and program leaders and field notes from the feedback and implementation sessions identified key themes about how the toolkit has been received and its impact across varying community contexts, e.g. libraries, churches, community centres, and adult day programs: (1) the power of hearing real voices; (2) recognizing stigma; (3) gaining confidence for change; (4) spreading the word; and (5) working with (not for) people with dementia. Overall, these groups found that taking the lead from people with lived experience has been pivotal in helping them take first meaningful steps toward dementia inclusion.
NEIGHBORHOOD PROXIMITY AND SPATIAL SPILLOVER: IMPACT ON OLDER ADULT HEALTH
Authors: Desjardins Michael , Moored Kyle , Shields Timothy , Curriero Frank , Carlson Michelle 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Studying the impacts of neighborhoods on health exposures and outcomes has seen increased attention over the last few decades. Neighborhoods can describe where individuals work, live, and recreate in granular detail, facilitating our understanding of activity spaces throughout the lifecourse. However, a plethora of studies in neighborhood health, especially among older adults treat these spatial units as statistically independent. Most research in this domain fails to capture the potential influence of surrounding neighborhoods on health exposures and outcomes in the target neighborhood. Many of these studies also fail to check for residual spatial autocorrelation/dependence of modeling results, which may violate the assumption of independence that is fundamental in statistics. The explanatory power of regression models may also improve by accounting for the spatial dependence of the variables in question. We present conceptual examples (e.g., blue/green spaces, neighborhood socioeconomic status, and other social determinants of health) of spatial regression models that consider the influence of nearby neighborhoods on the dependent variable of interest. We also highlight the need to consider neighborhoods that are not adjacent since individuals may interact with neighborhoods farther away more often than those immediately adjacent. We then present case studies of modeling neighborhood and environmental predictors of cognitive outcomes of older adults in the Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS). Emphasis will also be on modeling lifecourse exposures. Our work highlights the power of spatial models to capture spillover and protective effects, which can greatly improve our understanding of older adult activity spaces and health across the lifecourse.
NEIGHBORHOOD BLUE SPACES AND RISK OF INCIDENT DEMENTIA: IMPORTANCE OF SPATIAL AND HISTORICAL CONTEXT
Authors: Moored Kyle , Desjardins Michael , Rosso Andrea , Lovasi Gina , Donahue Patrick , Shields Timothy , Curriero Frank , Carlson Michelle 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Neighborhood blue spaces (e.g., lakes, rivers, other water sources) are underexplored contributors to cognitive aging that may act by promoting recreation and mental health. Yet, benefits may vary by historical use and surrounding spatial context of water sources. We examined associations between neighborhood blue spaces and risk of incident dementia in community-dwelling older adults in Pittsburgh, PA. Participants were 655 adults ≥65 years old from the Cardiovascular Health Cognition Study (CHCS; 1992-1999) living in Pittsburgh/Allegheny County, PA. Baseline blue space was measured as the Census tract-level percentage of open water from the 1992 National Land Cover Dataset, stratified into groups incorporating water source: none (0%), low (.003-.04%, smaller water sources), and high (&gt;.04%, major rivers). Time to dementia diagnosis was clinically adjudicated from a neurological exam, neuropsychological examinations, medical records, and proxy reporting across a median 6.2 years (n=103 cases, 16%). Cox models were adjusted for individual age, sex, race, education, income, and lifetime occupation. Greater blue space was associated with higher risk of all-cause dementia (low vs. none: HR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.26, 2.41 high vs. none: HR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.45, 2.98). Contrary to our hypothesis, neighborhood blue space was linked to increased risk of dementia for residents of Pittsburgh, PA. Historical industrialization and clustering of lower income neighborhoods along Pittsburgh’s main rivers will be discussed as potential contributors to this finding. Future work will capitalize on the geographic diversity of CHCS by comparing these analyses with more rural/suburban clinic sites (Winston-Salem, NC; and Hagerstown, MD).
CREATING CONNECTIONS BETWEEN PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA AND VOLUNTEERS THROUGH ART
Authors: Young Meghan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Scripps Gerontology Center’s award-winning Opening Minds through Art (OMA) program has built bridges across age and cognitive barriers through art for 17 years. People living with dementia, also known as artists, and volunteers are paired 1:1 for weekly abstract art making sessions. The program philosophy is based on autonomy and the freedom to make choices within a structured process, so the artists have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in art-making with the assistance of their volunteer partners. Volunteers in the program are trained to rely on the imagination and skills of the artist, without making any artistic, aesthetic decisions during the art-making process. Over the course of the art-making sessions, relationships develop between the pairs. Thirteen published studies show the impact of the program including findings to support that volunteers are more positive in their attitudes toward people living with dementia post-participation, and participants living with dementia displayed more interest and pleasure during OMA than during traditional visual art activities. This session will provide an overview of the program and a description of previous research as background information for the remainder of the symposium. The session will also include an overview of OMA’s first and longest running program at Miami University where 2,898 older adults and 2,812 students have participated in OMA through in-person and virtual intergenerational programming. To highlight OMA’s longevity, we will also present an original compilation of internal program evaluation data to map the expansion and growth of OMA from inception to the present day.
ENGAGING OLDER AND YOUNGER PEOPLE VIRTUALLY THROUGH THE ARTS
Authors: Peterson Krysta 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Following the COVID-19 Pandemic, the need for programming to foster connections and reduce loneliness for people of all ages increased. After the success of a three-year virtual OMA program, a new, video-chat application was developed to continue building intergenerational relationships virtually. ScrippsAVID (Arts-based, Virtual, Intergenerational, and Dementia-Friendly), pairs older and younger adults to discuss and co-create art, music, poetry, and share stories using over 75 art-based “prompts” designed to generate connections. Since its inception in 2023, ScrippsAVID has remained locally based with the majority of previous and current pairs comprised of Miami University students connecting with alumni. The program addresses older adults’ needs for social and creative engagement while providing younger adults opportunities to develop communication skills and build relationships with older adults, with and without dementia, outside of their families. Participants have commented on the value of their interactions with observations such as, “My AVID partner is one of the great joys in my life. Our time is so precious, and I am learning so much about life through her eyes. Thank you for this amazing opportunity. It is truly a blessing.” Overall, 132 older adults and 168 students have participated in ScrippsAVID with 90% of post-meeting satisfaction surveys reporting respondents being “Very Satisfied” (84%) or Satisfied (6%) with their meetup. This presentation will delve into the early ScrippsAVID implementation and outcome data to support further understanding of this innovative intergenerational program. We will also discuss potential future applications of ScrippsAVID for university-based intergenerational programming and community outreach.
CAREGIVERS’ PERCEIVED IMPORTANCE IN SOCIAL ACTIVITIES EXACERBATES THE EFFECT OF SOCIAL RESTRICTIONS ON DEPRESSION
Authors: Zhao Yuanchang , Yan Mengzhao , Kelley Jessica 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Taking on a family caregiving role can limit time for social activities, even ones that are very important to the caregiver. Despite the well-known benefits of social activity participation, such as mental health and reducing caregiver strain, few studies have examined the potential impact of missing specific types of social activities and their degree of importance for caregivers on their mental health. Guided by the conceptual model of caregiver burden and role theory, we hypothesize that missing specific activities that are important to the caregiver will have a more negative impact on depressive symptoms. We utilize Round 12 National Study of Caregiving (NSOC) data of family caregivers to people aged 65+ (N=2,431) focused on four key social activities: visiting friends and family, attending religious services, participating in group activities, and enjoying outdoor events. Our findings indicate that for each additional activity caregivers miss, they have 54% increased odds of depressive symptoms. Further, missing any activity considered “important” by the caregiver had 70% higher odds of depressive symptoms. Missing outdoor activities increased odds of depressive symptoms by 216%, but missing outdoor activities considered “important” had 234% higher odds of depressive symptoms. In sum, limiting social and recreational activities due to caregiving raises the risk of poor mental health, but missing activities that are highly valued by the caregiver raises that risk even further. These findings underscore the importance of recognizing caregivers’ perceived important activities to better understand and address the mental health challenges they face due to activity restrictions.
THE EFFECTS OF CAREGIVING HISTORY ON THE WELL-BEING OF INFORMAL CAREGIVERS LATER IN LIFE
Authors: Neller Sarah , Svynarenko Radion 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Previous studies have been primarily focused on documenting the negative impact of caregiving on quality of life. However, such a perspective overlooks the potentially positive outcomes that it can bring into the caregiver’s life. The purpose of the current examination was to explore how the history of informal caregiving for six months or more influences beliefs about well-being later in life. We used data from the Health and Retirement Study on caregiving history from the Life History Surveys, which were combined with well-being measures from Psychosocial and Lifestyle Questionnaires collected between 2016 and 2022. For data analysis, we used a set of Ordinary Least Squares regression models (OLS) to control for age, gender, race, ethnicity, education, and marital status. The total sample size in each OLS model varied depending on the year of data collection and response rates for each dependent variable. We found that history of caregiving has mixed effects on well-being later in life. Though it was negatively associated with life satisfaction (b = -0.19, p &lt; 0.001, n = 3,902), it was positively associated with compassionate goals (b = 0.094, p&lt; 0.001, n = 3,860) and purpose in life (b = 0.07, p = 0.017, n = 4,713), and negatively associated with fears about aging (b = -0.07, p = 0.016, n = 3,161). We will discuss potential ways to leverage positive wellbeing effects to promote caregivers’ flourishing and positive caregiver outcomes. These findings can be used to develop future interventions that aim to improve well-being of informal caregivers.
THE RELATIONSHIP OF PREDEATH GRIEF, BURDEN, AND EMPATHETIC PAIN IN FAMILY CAREGIVERS
Authors: Chrzanowski Lauren , McLean Elisabeth , Singer Jonathan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Family caregivers may experience pain as an empathetic reaction to their loved ones’ pain – this has not been studied in aging populations. Caregiver distress (such as pre-death grief (PDG)) increases as patient pain worsens. Therefore, this study hypothesized that higher PDG and caregiver burden would result in higher rates of empathetic pain for family caregivers. This study included family members of persons with advanced cancer (N=100) and dementia (N=38). We measured PDG using the PG-12 scale, burden with the Zarit Burden Inventory (ZBI), and used a single item (i.e., How often have you experienced pain (or other symptoms) that the individual with life limiting illness as (e.g., empathetic pains)), dichotomized (0=never; 1=at least once a day-multiple times a day) to measure empathetic pain. Logistic regressions were performed to ascertain the effects of PDG and burden on the likelihood of family caregivers experiencing empathetic pain when controlling for diagnoses and age of care recipient. PDG significantly predicted empathetic pain X2(3, N = 118) = 18.83, p&lt;.001. The model explained 20.4% (Nagelkerke R2) of the variance. Higher PDG score was associated with an increased likelihood of endorsing empathetic pain (OR=.896, 95%CI [1.041, 1.161]). Caregiver burden significantly predicted empathetic pain X2(3, N = 124) =7.81, p=.05. The model explained 8.4% (Nagelkerke R2) of the variance. Higher ZBI score was associated with an increased likelihood of endorsing empathetic pain (OR=.889, 95%CI [1.002, 1.128]). These results provide evidence that higher PDG and burden can lead to downstream effects on the caregiver, including empathetic pain.
CONGRESSIONAL UPDATE
Authors: Lindberg Brian 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This popular annual session will provide cutting-edge information on what the 118th Congress has and has not accomplished to date related to aging policy. Of particular importance will be the Older Americans Act Reauthorization, including funding for the Center for Research and Demonstration in the Aging Network, as well as an update on Medicare Advantage, nursing home regulations, and hospice and palliative care legislation.