bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE/DEMENTIA RISK FACTORS AMONG TRANSGENDER ADULTS
Authors: Cicero Ethan , Chiow Jobina , Flatt Jason 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences(ACEs) are associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias(ADRD). Compared to the general population, transgender, nonbinary, and other gender expansive people(TNGE) report a higher prevalence of ACEs and ADRD. The relationship between ACEs and ADRD risk factors among TNGE adults has not been explored. 2019-2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System(BRFSS) data, representing 16 U.S. states that assessed ACEs, subjective cognitive decline(SCD), and gender identity were used to determine the association between ACEs and ADRD risk factors(coronary heart disease[CHD], depression, diabetes, hearing loss, high cholesterol, hypertension, obesity, SCD, smoking, stroke) among TNGE adults aged 45+(N=206). Chi-squared and adjusted odds ratios(aOR) along with 95% confidence intervals(CI) were calculated, adjusting for BRFSS year, age, race, education, and employment. Obesity(70%), hypertension(56%), high cholesterol(47%) and depression(29%) were the most prevalent risk factors among the sample. Experiencing any ACE was associated with depression and SCD; &gt;4 ACEs was associated with CHD, depression, SCD, and stroke. As the number of ACEs increased, the odds of CHD, depression, SCD, and stroke increased by 29–41%. The odds of depression and SCD were higher with childhood abuse (aOR=3.1, 95%CI:1.7-5.9, p&lt; 0.01; aOR=3.8, 95%CI:1.7-8.3, p&lt; 0.01) or household dysfunction (aOR=5.1, 95%CI:2.4-10.6, p&lt; 0.0001; aOR=4.7, 95%CI:2.0-11.1, p&lt; 0.01). Compared with no ACEs, experiencing 2,3, and &gt;4ACEs were associated with 1.3–5.6x higher odds of depression and SCD. A lifecourse perspective is needed when examining the brain health of TNGE adults. ACE screening/interventions for TNGE youth are needed to help reduce the risk of ADRD later in life.
PSYCHOSOCIAL WELL-BEING, RELATIONSHIP STATUS, SEXUALITY, AND GENDER IN THE CANADIAN LONGITUDINAL STUDY ON AGING
Authors: Stinchcombe Arne , Hanes Douglas 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Social connection and support are vital components of later-life health; for many older people, much of this support comes from a spouse or partner. Existing research has shown that gender and sexuality are central to the effects of partnership, and thus the later-life psychosocial and mental health benefits of partnership also likely differ by these factors. Canadian Longitudinal Study of Aging (CLSA) participants were categorized according to gender and sexuality; we analyzed how the effects of relationship status differed across these categories. Several psychosocial and mental health outcome variables were tested, including depression symptoms, mood disorder, anxiety, self-rated health, social support, and social standing. Linear and ordered logistic regressions were conducted, adjusting for age and education. Married persons had lower depression scores (B=-2.20, p&lt;.001), higher social support (B=21.49, p&lt;.001), and subjective status (B=.61, p&lt;.001) than other relationship categories. The differences themselves differed by gender and sexuality: lesbian/bisexual women were better overall and experienced less adverse impact (B=23.37, p&lt;.001), while these had greater effects on gay/bisexual men (B=21.10, p&lt;.001). Lesbian/bisexual women have greater social supports across relationship statuses, while gay/bisexual men have less social support if not partnered. Findings highlighted variable and gendered effects of relationship status and sexual orientation on psychosocial outcomes. Examining differential effects for gender and sexual minority groups is essential to inclusive gerontological research.
ORAL HEALTH IN LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Wang Xiaochuan , Zaman Eman 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Oral health in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) is becoming an increasing concern as the aging population grows bigger. Recent research indicates that less than 20% of older adults living in LTCFs receive proper dental care. This gap is expected to continue to expand due to various reasons such as oral health being deemed less important in healthcare culture, especially for LTCF residents who may already have multiple other medical conditions. Inadequate oral care can adversely affect one’s mental, physical, and social well-being, causing disproportionate impacts on the vulnerable LTCF resident population. Thus, it is pivotal to understand the current status of oral health care in LTCFs, and LTCF workforce’s roles, competency, and preparedness in providing such care. To address this gap, a systematic review of existing literature was conducted using PRISMA guidelines. We searched electronic databases (e.g., PubMed, ProQuest) to identify peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2013 and 2023. A total of 1101 unduplicated publications emerged in the search. After screening articles for relevance based on titles and abstracts, 22 were reviewed in full text. Sixteen articles were included in this review. Findings demonstrate that residents in LTCFs suffer from poor oral care as its significance is overlooked. The articles suggest solutions such as integrated care, expanded insurance access, and further research on oral hygiene in LTCFs. Findings underscore the importance of oral health education programs. Proper training and increased awareness is needed to prevent further health issues beyond mouth to improve oral and overall health of LTCF residents.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SWALLOWING FUNCTION, NUTRITION, AND QUALITY OF LIFE DURING THE CORONAVIRUS DISEASE PANDEMIC
Authors: Morisaki Naoko , Numata Keizo 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This study aimed to determine the relationship between swallowing function, nutrition, and quality of life (QOL) in older adults in Japan who stayed at home during this period of the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants of this study were adults aged 65 years or higher who were staying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted from 2021 to 2022. The participants’ age, sex, swallowing function, nutrition, and QOL were surveyed. Swallowing function was assessed using the 12-item Dysphagia Risk Assessment for the Community-dwelling Elderly (DRACE) tool. Nutritional status was assessed using the Mini-Nutritional Assessment Short-Form (MNA-SF). QOL was assessed using the Short Form-8 (SF-8™) scale. Physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores were calculated based on the SF-8™ scale. Associations among swallowing function, nutrition, and QOL were analyzed using stepwise multiple regression analysis. The statistical software IBM SPSS Ver. 28.0 was used for the statistical analyses. The participants included 330 (70.1%) women and 141 (29.9%) men and their mean age was 81.5 ± 7.1 years. The participants’ average DRACE, MNA, PCS, and MCS scores were 3.65 ± 3.78, 10.25 ± 2.64, 46.31 ± 6.36, and 47.61 ± 6.31, respectively. The analysis was conducted with DRACE scores as the dependent variables and the age, sex, MNA, PCS, and MCS scores as the independent variables. A significant association was observed among swallowing function, nutritional status, and QOL (P &lt; 0.01). The findings suggested an association among swallowing function, nutritional status, and QOL even during the pandemic.
CHANGES IN PERSONALITY TRAITS PREDICT ALLOSTATIC LOAD
Authors: Alderson Jacob , Miller Sarah , Turiano Nicholas 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Understanding the influences personality change has on physical health has been identified as a key direction for personality research (Leszko et al., 2016). One key indicator of health and aging process is allostatic load, an objective index capturing physiological regulation (or dysregulation) across a variety of biological systems (e.g., inflammation, cardiovascular health). While some evidence suggests cross sectional associations between personality traits and allostatic load in older adult populations (Yoneda et al., 2023), little research at present has assessed if changes in personality are also associated with allostatic load. The present study utilizes the Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS) data set (N = 998; Mean age = 46.14; range = 25-74), to analyze change scores in personality traits at two time points (1994-1995 to 2004-2005) as predictors of allostatic load at a subsequent time point (2004-2009). Age, race, gender, education level (at 1994-1995) and baseline level of personality traits were used as covariates. Regression analyses revealed that increases in openness (b = -.20, p =.034) and decreases in agreeableness (b =.27, p =.004) were associated with a lower allostatic load. These findings have implications for considering the role personality development has on healthy aging. Given that naturalistic change in personality does associate with important markers of physical health and physiological processes, future studies could attempt to intervene at the level of personality (e.g., attempt to increase openness) in order to promote more optimal physical health and aging processes.
THE ALTERNATIVE MODEL OF PERSONALITY DISORDERS: LONGITUDINAL PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Stone-Bury Lisa , Segal Daniel L 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Alternative Model of Personality Disorders (AMPD) is a dimensional model of personality disorders that contains two main diagnostic constructs: personality functioning and five pathological personality traits domains. This study examined the temporal stability and predictive validity of the AMPD’s two diagnostic constructs among older adults. It was hypothesized that (1) the AMPD will show high levels of both differential and absolute stability and (2) the AMPD domains measured at baseline will be significantly predictive of various salient aspects of psychosocial functioning at Time 2, including interpersonal, intrapersonal, health, and social functioning. Community-dwelling older adults (n = 200) were recruited online and completed self-report questionnaires of the AMPD and aspects of psychosocial functioning. A subsample of the original group (n = 172) completed the same questionnaires three months later. Correlations and paired samples t-tests partially supported the temporal stability of the AMPD: personality functioning demonstrated good temporal stability, whereas pathological personality traits were mixed (good differential stability and poor absolute stability). Hierarchical regressions supported the pathological personality trait model’s predictivity validity among older adults, with Time 1 scores significantly predicting personality, interpersonal, intrapersonal, health, and social functioning scores at Time 2. Overall, hypotheses were partially supported. Differential stability (relative positioning of a participant within the sample) of the AMPD’s pathological personality trait model appears questionable in older adults, which is notable given the brief period of time examined in the study. However, the AMPD showed good predictive validity, with the trait model predicting several clinically meaningful outcomes in later life.
DOES ASSET POVERTY INFLUENCE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING IN LATER LIFE? AN 8-YEAR PROSPECTIVE STUDY IN CHINA
Authors: Chen Yu-Chih , Hu Ting 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Wealth serves as a financial cushion for older adults that can be consumed to generate economic, psychological, and social benefits in later life. Asset poverty, defined as inadequate wealth to cover basic needs for three months, can lead to financial instability and diminished well-being. However, research on its impact on the health and well-being of older adults, particularly in developing countries like China, is scarce. Using data from 7,982 adults aged 60 and older from the 2011-2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, this study investigates the effects of asset poverty on cognition, self-rated health, depressive symptoms, and life satisfaction. Four types of asset poverty across time (i.e., persistent asset poverty, transitioning into asset poverty, transitioning from asset poverty, and persistent asset non-poverty) were constructed using three varied wealth measures: total assets, financial assets, and non-housing assets. Findings from the two-way fixed effect model showed that, compared to those consistently above the asset poverty line, households falling into asset poverty or experiencing prolonged asset poverty reported lower self-rated health and life satisfaction, along with higher depressive symptoms. Even transitioning out of asset poverty correlated with lower self-rated health and life satisfaction. However, asset poverty was not associated with cognition. This study underscores the significance of maintaining adequate assets to guard against financial insecurity and diminished mental health. Policies aimed at fostering lifelong asset accumulation and development should be advocated to bolster health and well-being in later life.
GETTING OLDER AND GETTING BY WITH SSI
Authors: Freitag Callie 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
For decades, qualitative researchers have asked low-income younger adults how they make ends meet in light of a shifting safety net. Yet, we know comparatively little about the daily economic lives of an increasingly policy-relevant group: low-income older adults who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI provides a monthly backstop of cash assistance, a maximum of $943 per month in 2024, but its strict income and asset limits may mitigate its poverty-reducing potential. Additional disability-based eligibility requirements for people under age 65 may create administrative burden and perpetuate economic and health disparities. This project uses nationally representative, secondary qualitative interview data from the American Voices Project to examine the life events that led older adults to take up SSI and describe how they make sense of their economic circumstances in light of SSI’s benefits and constraints. From a stratified subsample of low-income adults ages 50 years older (N=28), I take an abductive approach to analyze interviews and compare findings across respondents who entered SSI through the disability and retirement pathways. I find that a wide array of life experiences lead older adults to SSI, but nearly all are underscored by a lifetime of precarious employment and persistent poverty. Most respondents say they are able to “get by” between their monthly SSI check and other resources like subsidized housing, but are unable to cope with large, unexpected expenses without turning to family or debt.
LABOR FORCE TRANSITIONS, INCOME CHANGES, AND POVERTY ENTRIES AMONG OLDER WORKERS: 2018–2023
Authors: Freitag Callie , Hill Heather 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Economic downturns and recoveries, like the one caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, can change retirement plans by prompting early retirement or inducing workers to remain in the labor force longer. These changes in the timing and circumstances of later-life labor force transitions can have significant impacts on the income sources available to those making the transition—and thus the likelihood of experiencing poverty—but prior studies do not examine these outcomes. Using the Current Population Survey March ASEC from 2018-2023, this study examines older adults’ (age 50 or over) labor force transitions during the COVID-19 pandemic. We contribute to prior literature by focusing specifically on trends, and the economic consequences of two types of labor force exits: retirement or non-retirement. Our main analysis estimates associations between labor force transitions and entries into poverty and describes changes in income during labor force transition years. We find that transitioning out of the labor force for any reason is significantly associated with substantial reductions in total income and a higher likelihood of entering poverty. However, these associations did not change much throughout the pandemic or recovery period. We also find that COVID-19 Economic Impact Payments and Unemployment Insurance were important protections against earnings losses and poverty entries in 2021, but especially for those who transitioned out of the labor force. This study also sheds light on the fluidity of retirement and labor force participation in later life.
GENERATING VIDEO VISITS FOR RURAL OLDER VETERANS IN TELE-GERIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Authors: Gould Christine , Carlson Chalise , Humber Marika , Peeples Amanda , Burningham Zachary , Trivedi Ranak 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Telehealth services increase access to specialty mental health services for rural older adults. Within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), older Veterans are more likely to receive audio-only mental telehealth services compared with younger Veterans. Using a mixed methods approach, we examined the use of video telehealth services by geriatric mental health (GMH) providers in four regional VHA telehealth hubs. Between October 2022 and September 2023, 351 rural Veterans with a mean age of 75.1 years (SD = 8.8) received services from one or more GMH provider. Patients were mostly white (88.6%), males (95.4%) with high care needs (CAN = 81.6 out of 100, indicating highest need). Of the 1,440 encounters delivered, 49% were video to home, 27% were video to clinic, 19% were telephone, and 5% were e-consultation services. Through interviews with GMH providers, we identified technology-related barriers and solutions used to help rural Veterans be seen via video. Findings suggested that barriers to video services included lack of home internet and/or devices, poor connection, and audio or video issues. Solutions included using VHA resources to obtain iPads for patients who lacked connectivity/devices and prioritizing getting patients into local clinic when needed for video visits. Providers described utilizing the telehealth clinical technician to help overcome patient barriers and discomfort with digital technology through teaching patients and caregivers to use home telehealth software. With troubleshooting, use of resources and training, high quality video telehealth services can be delivered successfully to older rural Veterans and increase access to GMH care.
THE CARE NAVIGATOR ROLE IN RURAL PRIMARY CARE MEMORY CLINICS
Authors: Morgan Debra , Bayly Melanie , Kosteniuk Julie 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Collaborative dementia care models that include a navigator role achieve better outcomes but little is known about impacts in rural settings. Rural primary healthcare memory clinic teams in Saskatchewan include Coordinators from the Alzheimer Society of Saskatchewan (ASOS) First Link Program, which aims to connect persons living with dementia (PLWD) and families with supports at diagnosis. We examined perceptions of First Link Coordinators (FLC) and memory clinic team members about the FLC role, and evaluated impact of the role within the memory clinic (compared to self- and direct-referrals from other healthcare providers) on timeliness, number of completed FLC-client contacts, topics discussed, duration, and contact method. The QUAL+QUAN design included: (1) semi-structured interviews with three FLC and six team members in four rural memory clinics, (2) routinely collected ASOS client data. Separate inductive thematic analyses with FLC and team interviews (Jan 2021-Apr 2023) identified two common themes: benefits for PLWD and families (eg, early and ongoing connection to emotional support) and benefits for team members (eg, can focus on their unique role). Face-to-face contact established a FLC-family relationship and facilitated follow-up contact. Longitudinal retrospective analysis of ASOS data found that between Dec 2017-Dec 2021, 139 clients (predominantly spouses, children) were referred. Compared to other referrals, statistically significant differences (p&lt;.05) included: memory clinic clients contacted sooner after referral, longer duration of first contact, more completed contacts, more topics discussed. Findings demonstrate the added value of FLC in rural memory clinics. Future research should explore long-term outcomes for PLWD and families.
CAREGIVING FOR OLDER ADULTS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA AND CONCURRENT HEARING LOSS
Authors: Lewis Charity , Zhang Wuyang , Reed Nicholas , Sanchez Victoria , Arnold Michelle , Haley William 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
While hearing loss and dementia are highly concurrent conditions, there is a lack of studies examining its impact on dementia caregiving. Hearing loss has been identified as an unmet need among older adults living with dementia, as it contributes to communication challenges. Using Round 12 (2022) of the linked National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) and National Study on Caregiving (NSOC), we aim to investigate the association of concurrent hearing loss and dementia with caregiving stressors and appraisals. Our study population consisted of 1,445 (Mean age: 61±15 years; Female: 68%) caregivers assisting 942 older adults (Mean age: 82±8 years; Female: 66%; non-Hispanic White: 59%). Hearing loss was measured using pure-tone audiometry and dementia was ascertained using a pre-established algorithm in NHATS. Caregiving stressors, including hours of care in the past month and caregivers’ appraisals of difficulties in physical, emotional, and financial domains, were self-reported. In the analytic sample, the prevalence of hearing loss among care recipients with dementia was high (274/314: 87%). Moreover, 431 (30%) of caregivers provided care to an older adult with concurrent hearing loss and dementia. After adjusting for caregiver-recipient characteristics, results from linear regression models suggest among caregivers assisting older adults with dementia, per 10-dB increment in care recipients’ hearing was associated with a 35% increase in caregiving time (95% CI: 9%-68%). No statistically significant associations were observed regarding caregivers’ perceived difficulties. Our findings suggest that caregivers of older adults with concurrent hearing loss and dementia may be more susceptible to facing greater caregiving intensity.
IMPROVING DETECTION OF UNTREATED HEARING LOSS IN A COMPREHENSIVE CARE SETTING USING A SINGLE-QUESTION SCREENER
Authors: Mamo Sara , Krysko Alyssa , Garrity Katherine , Wallhagen Margaret 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
A majority of older adults have untreated hearing loss, which poses care and communication challenges for healthcare providers. Routine identification of hearing loss would help providers and individuals recognize hearing as a possible contributor to communication difficulties. The objective of the study was to implement a single-question hearing screening administered by medical assistants (MAs) in a health clinic. The study took place in a Day Health Clinic at a Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Participants included anyone seen in the clinic during the study. Participants were screened by the MA, and the researchers collected hearing thresholds after their appointment. We performed behavioral hearing threshold testing and used a 4-frequency pure-tone average to estimate the individual’s hearing status and measure the sensitivity/specificity of the screening method. With a sample of 49 participants (age range = 56-90 years), we calculated a sensitivity of 71.4% and a specificity of 42.9%. Categorically, our behavioral hearing tests resulted in 14 individuals with clinically normal hearing, 24 with mild hearing loss, and 11 with moderate or worse hearing thresholds. There were no current hearing aid users in the sample, and three who reported having used hearing aids previously. The findings suggest that a single-question screener can be used as a simple method of identifying individuals who may benefit from a hearing evaluation and/or hearing loss treatment. Future studies should integrate ‘hearing status’ prominently in the individual’s medical record and establish protocols for using personal amplifiers to support adults with untreated hearing loss.