bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CO-PRODUCED IDEAS FOR SMART HOME TECHNOLOGIES TO SUPPORT ENGAGEMENT IN MEANINGFUL ACTIVITIES
Authors: Galanza William Son , Schmidt Steven , Jonsson Oskar , Offerman Jens , Malesevic Nebojsa , Iwarsson Susanne , Fristedt Sofi 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
While research in the field of technology is surging, research on older adults playing an active role in designing and developing smart home technology (SHT) to enhance usability and adoption is lacking. It is important to co-develop products with potential users to better match their needs and desires. This study aims to generate ideas about SHT that can enhance the use and adoption of SHT that can support engagement in meaningful activities while ageing. The research circle methodology was utilized to elicit co-produced ideas for SHT and their functions with participants from different generations (30-39, 50-59 and 70-79 years old; n=9), together with two professionals with expertise in SHT and four researchers. The strength of research circle methodology is knowledge translation through the collaborative effort of participants. The findings revealed that the participants preferred SHT which can support independence, engagement in social experiences, and participation in meaningful activities while ageing, rather than smart home appliances or full home automation. Moreover, SHT which can create a stimulating environment to positively impact physical, cognitive, and psychosocial factors were highlighted. Some ideas generated were multi-purpose functions and a system that can analyze patterns for monitoring activities and prevention of disability or its progression. Non-technology support such as informal carers and neighborhood and community support were also prioritized. Our study highlights the benefits of collaboration among diverse stakeholders (older adults, informal carers, technology professionals and researchers) to generate ideas about preferences for SHT that can better support the needs and desires of older adults.
LONGITUDINAL RELATIONS OF INTERNET USE FREQUENCY WITH COGNITIVE AND SOCIAL FUNCTIONING AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Toh Wei Xing , Ho Chin Wei , Khoo Shuna Shi Ann 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Given the increasing reliance on the Internet in our daily lives, understanding the role of Internet use in cognitive and social functioning among older adults is crucial for promoting successful aging. However, the directionality of these relations remains inconclusive owing to methodological limitations in past studies (e.g., Mariano et al., 2021; Szabo et al., 2019), such as (a) reliance on cross-sectional and limited (two-wave) longitudinal data and (b) failure to disaggregate stable, between-person differences from temporal, within-person dynamics. Drawing from four waves of the English Longitudinal Study of Aging (N = 12,264; Mean age = 66.01 years), we used random-intercept cross-lagged panel modelling to investigate the directionality of Internet use frequency with cognitive functioning (i.e., verbal fluency and episodic memory) and social functioning (i.e., perceived social support, social-interaction frequency, and perceived social closeness). At the between-person level, older adults with higher Internet use frequency reported greater cognitive and social functioning (rs &gt;.11, ps &lt;.001). At the within-person level, greater-than-average cognitive functioning unidirectionally predicted subsequently higher Internet use frequency (βs &gt;.06, ps &lt;.035), thereby indicating that more cognitively intact older adults may face fewer difficulties with Internet use. Conversely, Internet use frequency was bidirectionally associated with social functioning (βs &gt;.11, ps &lt;.001). Specifically, engagement with the Internet supports social networks, and improved social functioning likely enhances the perceived usefulness and usage behavior of the Internet. These findings underscore the importance of considering cognitive and social factors when promoting Internet use among older adults.
MOBILE TEXT MESSAGE AS AN ADJUNCTIVE STRATEGY TO SUPPORT HOME-BASED EXERCISE IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Kidd Bethany , Jennings Stephen , Abbate Lauren , Tayade Arti , Hall Katherine 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Lack of physical activity is associated with increased comorbidities, falls, frailty and healthcare usage. Several clinical and community-based exercise programs exist to provide guided exercise to older adults, however, staffing and space allotment often create barriers to providing sufficient opportunities. Puget Sound Gerofit sessions are held both in person and virtually. Both classes take place twice a week for 45 minutes. The Gerofit program in Seattle Washington implemented a structured text-based messaging protocol to provide additional exercise opportunities in support of meeting public health guidelines for physical activity. Twenty-six veterans were enrolled using mobile test messaging to provide an additional day of exercise. These veterans were texted 1x a week an automated message asking if they would like to exercise. Positive responses were sent a randomized link from a digital library of pre-recorded exercise videos featuring Gerofit instructors. Follow-up messages were sent to quantify minutes of activity participation. Twenty-six Veterans were messaged, over an average of 24 weeks. Participating veterans were on average 73.7 years old, predominately male (87.0%), and White race (82.6%). Of the 634 messages sent, 145 responses were gathered (22.8%). Veterans who engaged positively (61.5%) in exercise reported an average activity of 33.5 minutes/day. Participating older adults reported high satisfaction with the text-based protocol. Supplementation of a virtual group exercise program is feasible with text messaging and on-demand pre-recorded videos. This format allows a flexible option for participants as well as providing a lower resource option for exercise programs.
POWER ASSIST ADD-ONS FOR OLDER ADULT MANUAL WHEELCHAIR USERS: A SCOPING REVIEW
Authors: Atoyebi Oladele , Wister Andrew , Mattie Johanne , Gutman Gloria , Chaudhury Habib , O’Dea Eireann , Hosseini Sogol Haji , Borisoff Jaimie 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Manual wheelchairs can promote independence among users of all ages. However, there are age-related differences in the level of disability, strength, stamina, and the environmental conditions within which the wheelchair is used. Using power assist add-ons may mitigate these limitations and help individuals in independent mobility. A gap in the literature is an understanding of the ways in which aging may limit the functionality of power assists on wheelchairs and the impact on independence and active aging. This scoping review analyzes scientific and gray literature to examine the use of power assist add-ons among older adults who use manual wheelchairs, as well as their advantages, limitations, and potential benefits in promoting independence and active aging. This review was guided by the PRISMA checklist for scoping reviews, and the Arksey and O’Malley review methodology. The literature search was carried out in two phases: 1) a keyword and MeSH search of electronic databases, proceedings, as well as symposia for relevant titles/abstracts; and 2) a search of Google and Google Scholar, as well as hand searches. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we included 20 publications with a focus on power-assist wheelchair technology for full review. Results indicate that power-assist add-ons for manual wheelchairs show promise in improving mobility and reducing user exertion for older adults. However, concerns regarding safety, indoor maneuverability, and user preferences highlight the need for specialized training and retrofitting power assist add-ons, especially among older users. Further research on user-centered design, and adherence to safety standards are warranted.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TECHNOLOGY USE, EMPLOYMENT STATUS, AND SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT IN OLDER AMERICANS
Authors: Lee Jaesung , O’Shields Jay , Dunnigan Allison 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Previous studies have explored the relationship between technology use or employment status among older adults and social engagement. However limited knowledge exists regarding the relationship between technology use, employment status, and social engagement. This study analyzes the relationship between older adults’ information and technology (ICT) use and employment status on social engagement. The 2022 (wave 12) National Health & Aging Trends Study (NHATS) was used. The sample population includes US Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older who were community dwellers (N = 5,195). Multivariate regression analysis indicates that ICT use is associated with social engagement (b=-1.52, t=-11.86, p&lt; 0.001), with ICT users having the highest level of social engagement followed by CT users, IT users, and nonusers. Employment status is also associated with social engagement (b=-0.46, t=-5.14, p&lt; 0.001), with the employed being the most socially engaged, and the retired/do not work anymore group having higher levels of social engagement compared to the unemployed group. An interaction was tested but was not significant. Additionally, sociodemographic factors including age (b=0.05, t=2.50, p=0.015), gender (b=0.31, t=5.71,p&lt; 0.001), race (b=-0.78, t=-9.52, p&lt; 0.001), education(b=0.24, t=3.70, p&lt; 0.001), and living arrangements (b=0.31, t=6.84, p&lt; 0.001) have a statistically significant relationship with social engagement. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the importance of considering both technology use and employment status in understanding social engagement among older Americans. These findings suggest the need for further research to explore the complex interaction of these factors in older adults’ social engagement.
TRAINING OLDER ADULTS IN THE USE OF INTERNET TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Case Donna , Groden Sheryl , Sahli Michelle 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate whether small group (2:1) technology training increases the frequency of technology use among older adults and how these older adults perceived this training. Graduate occupational therapy students, under faculty supervision, provided 4 weekly technology tutoring sessions to older adults at a senior center and an independent living facility located in Genesee County, MI. Participants received training in pairs. This training consisted of internet safety and additional instruction centered on participants’ interests. When requested, participants were offered assistive devices to help them use technology. Pre and post surveys were administered to participants to examine their independent technology use and attitudes towards the training sessions. Students provided training to 31 older adults with only 3 participants requesting assistive devices. The surveys showed an increase in the proportion of participants independently using technology for 10 out of 11 activities; however, these results were not statistically significant. Analysis of qualitative data revealed that most participants felt comfortable using technology post intervention and that they learned more about technology. Participants also liked the frequency and length of the sessions and reported forming relationships with others during the sessions. Although not statistically significant, perhaps due to small sample size, these findings provide evidence that training in small groups provided by students may increase technology use by older adults and that this type of training is acceptable to older adults. Future studies should be conducted in larger samples and with other populations to further explore this type of training program.
DRIVING RISK TOLERANCE AS A PREDICTOR OF OLDER ADULTS’ ABILITY TO DRIVE
Authors: Curl Angela 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Driving is critical to mobility, autonomy, freedom of choice, and engagement for older adults, but many eventually stop driving. Evaluation of fitness to drive, risks related to driving, and personal preferences about driving all can play a role in driving cessation. Using 2022 data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS; N=2,209), this study examined the relationship between driving risk tolerance and driving cessation for White and Black adults over age 65. Risk tolerance (key predictor) was measured as willingness to take risks while driving (0=“unwilling to take any risks” to 10=”fully prepared to take risks”). Self-reported ability to drive (yes/no) assessed driving cessation. Model 1 consisted of driving risk tolerance, controlling for education, gender, race, ethnicity and age, while Model 2 tested whether the relationship was mediated by self-rated eyesight, health, and memory (3 single-item measures, 0=poor to 4=excellent). Logistic regression results indicated that higher driving risk tolerance was associated with greater likelihood of ability to drive in Model 1 (OR=1.08, p=.01). Addition of health factors (Model 2) only weakly mediated this relationship, with driving risk tolerance having a slightly stronger impact on driving ability (OR=1.10, p&lt;.01). Better eyesight (OR=1.76, p&lt;.01) and health (OR=1.45, p&lt;.01) were associated with greater likelihood self-reported ability to drive. As driving involves potential risks (e.g., traffic tickets, accidents), driving assessments should include perceptions of level of risk in discussions about driving cessation. Interventions designed to help older adults accurately assess their driving risk and how to minimize risks could promote driving ability/driving cessation.
COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT, DEMENTIA, AND FALLS IN RACIALLY/ETHNICALLY DIVERSE OLDER AMERICANS
Authors: Malatyali Ayse , Thiamwong Ladda , Cidav Tom , Xie Rui , Wiese Lisa 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Older adults with cognitive impairment (CI) and dementia are prone to falls as they have at least twice as much risk than their cognitively normal peers. The relationship between falls and cognitive decline is bidirectional. However, evidence regarding the effects of falls on CI and dementia is limited. This study describes the association of falls, repeated falls, and related risk factors with CI and dementia among older Americans. This cross-sectional study used datasets from the 2020 interviews of the Health and Retirement Study. The sample included 7,663 participants (age&gt;64). Participants who had fallen in the last two years were 15% more likely to have CI and 34% more likely to have dementia. Increased number of falls was significantly associated with CI (OR=1.03) and dementia (OR=1.04). Having depressive symptoms was also associated with CI (OR=1.64) and dementia (OR=1.99). Participants living in rural areas were 17% more likely to have CI and 53% more likely to have dementia than those living in urban areas. Furthermore, living alone increased the odds of having CI (OR: 1.22) and dementia (OR=1.15). We also observed a significant association of ethnicity and race with cognitive stages: Hispanic participants were 1.7 times more likely, and Black participants were 2.4 times more likely to have CI. The likelihood of having dementia was also higher in Hispanics (OR: 2.36) and Blacks (OR= 5.21) compared to non-Hispanic Whites. Falls prevention interventions should be tailored across cognitive stages in older adults with the consideration of ethnic, racial, and environmental diversities.
EFFECTS OF MENOPAUSE MODELING ON AUTOPHAGIC AND LYSOSOMAL FUNCTION IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE MICE
Authors: Osborne Danielle , Dorn Adrianah 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is denoted by strong sex differences, whereby females are significantly more likely to develop AD and often experience more rapid progression and cognitive decline. This difference in risk is often attributed to menopause, however the underlying molecular mechanisms are unknown. In humans and animal models, autophagic and lysosomal dysfunction are among the earliest known cellular changes that occur in AD susceptible brain regions, like the hippocampus. Our goal was to first characterize how key autophagic and lysosomal gene transcripts changed due to sex, ovariectomy (OVX) and estrogen replacement in wildtype mice, then investigate in female AD mice how these cellular processes change due to OVX and estrogen replacement. In wildtype mice, across 22 genes investigated, three transcripts, Atg12, Atg5, and Map1LC3b showed a baseline sex difference. Using the 5xFAD model of AD, we observed the expected genotype difference in cognition, with transgenics having a significant impairment in Morris watermaze performance. Probe measures indicate decreased performance due to OVX, but that 5xFAD mice may be further hindered by the addition of estrogen. Molecular measures will include western blot analysis of phosphorylated proteins involved in autophagic/lysosomal signaling (pAkt, pAMPK, pRPS6), and qPCR (Atg5, Atg12, Map1LC3b, Tfe3, Tfeb, among others) in the hippocampus, and immunohistochemistry (GFAP, Iba1, amyloid-beta, reelin) in the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex. These studies will provide valuable information on how cessation of female hormones at menopause affect the vital cellular functions of autophagy and lysosomal degradation in key cognitive and disease susceptible brain regions in AD.
EVALUATION OF A LATINO BRAIN HEALTH FAIR FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE EDUCATION AND RESEARCH RECRUITMENT
Authors: Kehne Theresa , Rojina Janet , Ko Linda , Bishop Sonia , Pascoe Kelley , Domoto-Reilly Kimiko , Anaya-Carmona Israel , Torres Karen 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Hispanic/Latino individuals are at higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) than non-Hispanic White individuals, yet risk factors in the Hispanic/Latino community are not well understood due to barriers impacting research participation. This study, in partnership with a community advisory board, developed and evaluated a novel “Brain Health Fair” (BHF) intervention for increasing AD knowledge and willingness to participate in AD research among Hispanic/Latino individuals. The BHF involved an educational presentation and interactive stations run by language-concordant health professionals that provided information about AD, health promotion and the importance of research participation to improve health equity in a culturally grounded context. Participant knowledge, attitudes, and willingness to participate in AD research were assessed in an anonymous assessment administered pre and post intervention. Participants were also given the option to enroll in the local University of Washington Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC). Participants (n=26) demonstrated a significant change in knowledge of AD in the Latino community pre and post intervention (M pre; post=1.4;3.6, SD pre; post=1.5;1.5, Z=-3.5, p=0.001), preventative behaviors for AD (M=1;3.3, SD=1.4;1.7, Z=-3.6, p=0), what ADRC participation entails (M=0.9;3.5, SD=1.6;1.7, Z=-3.8, p=0) and benefits of research participation (M=1.2;3.9, SD=1.8;1.6, Z=-3.5, p=0.001) (two-sided Wilcoxon signed-rank test, p=0.001). After the intervention, 85% reported being satisfied and found it culturally appropriate and 81% signed consent forms to enroll in the ADRC. The BHF showed great promise for improving knowledge of AD and readiness of Hispanic/Latino individuals to participate in research and was a successful method for recruiting participants into AD research.
MEASURING LIGHTING USING AN INDIVIDUAL WEARABLE LIGHT SENSOR IN NURSING HOME RESIDENTS WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Jao Ying-Ling , Wang Julian , Beiglary Shevvaa , Liao Yo-Jen 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
More research has examined the light effect in dementia. Lighting exposure varies widely across times and people. Individual light sensors allow more precise measurements. Yet, their feasibility has not been established. This study examined the feasibility of using individual light sensors (LYS Button) in a clinical trial for nursing home residents with dementia. This study enrolled 27 residents with dementia. The LYS Button is a small, lightweight sensor clipped on residents’ collar/shoulder area. The sensor measured lighting every 15 seconds all day, 7 days a week, every other week for 13 weeks. Several strategies were implemented. First, instructions on sensor use were provided, and a reminder sign was posted in the residents’ bedrooms. Second, a computer station on site enabled data monitoring. If a sensor disconnected from the server, the team was alerted, and on-site staff were contacted to check/replace sensors. Third, the research team checked the sensor on-site twice weekly. To examine the feasibility, the number of sensors was tallied, sensor data were analyzed, and individual interviews were conducted with 22 healthcare workers. Results showed that 52 sensors were lost or broken. The average missing data per resident per day were 1.13 (SD=0.99) and 6.84 hours (SD=2.28) during daytime and nighttime, respectively. Despite some missing data, the intense data collection allowed sufficient data for analysis. The results support the feasibility of using the wearable sensor to measure daytime lighting. Wearing methods and strategies during nighttime need modification to improve the use of individual lighting sensors in people with dementia.
PREVALENCE AND CHARACTERISTICS OF HEALTH CARE–RELATED TASKS BY INFORMAL DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Zuber Mohammed , Borate Samruddhi Nandkumar , Tan Chia Jie , Li Niying 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Healthcare-related tasks (e.g. making appointments, talking to providers) performed by informal caregivers caring for older adults with dementia have become increasingly common. This is a systematic review of the prevalence and characteristics of healthcare related tasks performed by informal caregivers. Articles were searched in PubMed, Embase, PsychInfo and CINAHL until September 2023. Studies that were based in the United States and reported the prevalence of healthcare related tasks performed by informal dementia caregivers were included. Tasks identified were grouped into health and medical care, advocacy and care coordination, and surrogate tasks. Caregiver characteristics were reported. Of 6,284 articles screened, we included 12 studies. All the studies were cross-sectional and the majority of them were nationally representative. Majority of caregivers were female and spousal caregivers. Only four studies included racial and ethnic minority caregivers. Medication management, including keeping track of medications, was the most common health and medical care task reported in eight studies ranging from 41% to 86%, followed by five studies reporting 7% to 47% caregivers being involved in wound and skin care. Two studies reported caregivers performing advocacy and care coordination tasks (27 to 73%) such as making appointments, managing insurance, and one study reported surrogate tasks such as participating in medical/treatment decisions (41%). Informal dementia caregivers were involved in a wide range of complex healthcare related tasks. The healthcare system and healthcare professionals need to provide training and support to informal dementia caregivers in performing these tasks.