bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
AN OPEN PILOT STUDY OF A COMMUNITY-ENGAGED BRAIN HEALTH EDUCATION PROGRAM FOR CHINESE AMERICANS AGED 50 OR ABOVE
Authors: Wang Kaipeng , De Fries Carson , Li Xiaoyouxiang , Sun Fei , Zhu Jie 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Chinese Americans, the largest Asian American subgroup in the U.S., face linguistic, cultural, and socio-economic barriers to dementia prevention. To promote brain health in this population, a community-engaged approach is essential. This study evaluates a community-engaged education program for Chinese Americans aged 50 or older, designed to enhance brain health knowledge and motivate lifestyle changes to prevent dementia. The program is structured into four phases. First, we assessed participants’ interests in brain health topics, availability, and preferred modes of delivery. Next, experts in the identified topics developed educational content and outcome assessments. The third phase involved implementing a six-session program over three months, offered in Mandarin both virtually and in-person. The sessions covered general knowledge about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, diet, sleep, physical exercise, health checks, and mindfulness. Finally, we evaluated the program’s feasibility and effectiveness using mixed methods, including pre-post surveys, session feedback questionnaires, and focus groups. Seventy-seven participants completed the pretest survey, and 47 (61%) attended at least four sessions and completed the post-test survey. The results of paired t-tests showed statistically significant improvements in knowledge of brain health, diet, exercise, and health checks, as well as increased motivation for lifestyle changes. While supporting these results, qualitative findings further revealed the applicability, understandability, comprehensiveness, cultural relevance, elder friendliness of the sessions, and participants’ motivation for attending and self-improvement. Findings highlight feasibility and effectiveness of a community-engaged education approach in brain health promotion and lifestyle change and underscore the need for continued community outreach among Chinese Americans.
ASSESSING HEALTH BEHAVIORS AND WELLBEING OF NON-SPOUSAL LGBTQIA+ CAREGIVERS OF PEOPLE WITH AD/ADRD
Authors: Caldwell Clover , Schwartz Heather , Slowey A J , Werner Nicole , Pickett Andrew 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Informal caregivers of people living with Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) or AD-Related Dementias (AD/ADRD) face high levels of burden and stress, while LGBTQIA+ identifying individuals often experience stigmatization and discrimination. Young adults are increasingly involved in caregiving for older adult relatives. To date, there is limited research related to the experiences LGBTQIA+ dementia caregivers, particularly those who are not spousal partners of care recipients. We conducted an online survey of LGBTQIA+, non-spousal caregivers, recruited through the Prolific platform. Participants (n=116) responded to items about health-behaviors (e.g., physical activity, sleep hygiene, alcohol use) and caregiving experiences (e.g., burden). Participants most commonly identified as white (n=63, 53.4%), women (n=64, 54.2%), and bisexual (n=71, 60.2%). The average age was 37.64 (SD=12.44) years and participants reported 25.54 (SD=25.17) average weekly hours caring for parents (n=56, 48.3%), grandparents (n=40, 34.5%), or others (n=24, 20.7%). Participants most commonly were ‘moderately active’ (n=70, 60.3%), had poor sleep quality (M=2.32 / 4, SD=.87), moderate alcohol use (n=52, 50.5% reported 3-6 drinks per session) and caregiver burden (M=13.54, SD=7.19). Participants reported feelings of loneliness (M=5.39/ 9, SD=2.04) and depressive symptoms (M=9.32, SD= 7.22), both of which were predicted by caregiver burden (Loneliness: F=2.73, p&lt;.001, Adj. R2=.30; Depressive Symptoms: F=2.92, p&lt;.001, Adj. R2=.32). Non-spousal LGBTQIA+ dementia caregivers reported suboptimal health behaviors, partially associated with time and other constraints related to caregiving. Further, caregiver burden was associated with both loneliness and depressive symptoms. Additional research and interventions are needed to promote health and reduce burden among this population.
ATTACHMENT SECURITY AND COPING SKILLS IN INTERACTIONS BETWEEN DAUGHTERS AND THEIR MOTHERS WITH COGNITIVE CHANGE
Authors: Gad Dustin , Monin Joan , Wells Jenna 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The caregiving literature shows that daughters with secure attachment to their mothers with cognitive change report decreased stress and caregiver burden. However, the behavioral patterns that underlie this link remain undiscovered. In the present study, we examined the associations between daughters’ apparent security, an observational attachment code developed by Brooke Feeney and colleagues indicating comfortability and openness, in interactions with their mothers and their tendency to use various coping strategies. Daughter-mother dyads (N = 69) engaged in video-recorded discussions about their concerns regarding their mothers’ memory loss. Apparent security was rated by trained coders. Daughters completed questionnaires about their use of coping styles. Results showed that daughters’ greater apparent security was associated with less use of self-distraction (B = -.470, p =.047), denial (B = -.471, p =.005), and behavioral disengagement (B = -.422, p =.010). Daughter’s greater apparent security was also associated with greater displays of positive affect (r =.487, p &lt;.001), emotional disclosure (r =.352, p =.003), descriptive disclosure (r =.293, p =.015), open discussion (r =.496, p &lt;.001), confidence (r =.262, p =.030), and receptiveness to mothers’ support attempts (r =.476, p &lt;.001). These results suggest that interventions and targeted efforts to make daughters feel more open and accepting with their mothers during discussions about memory loss may increase their ability to cope in the context of their mother’s dementia.
ATTRIBUTED DIGNITY ACROSS THE LIFESPAN: COMPARING DIGNITY IN OLDER ADULTS AND COLLEGE-AGE INDIVIDUALS
Authors: Adawudu Emefa , Chen Chunfang , Choi Jeungok , Jacelon Cynthia 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Attributed Dignity is a core value in human interaction. Researchers have shown that the perception of dignity changes across the lifespan. To understand attributed dignity across the lifespan, we compared the factor structure of the Jacelon Attributed Dignity Scale (JADS) between samples of older adults and college-aged individuals. The theory of attributed dignity guided this study. Data was collected from 289 older adults from senior centers in New England and 380 college students at a large public university in New England using JADS, social desirability scale (SDS), and Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale (SES). SDS and SES were used to determine construct validity. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), construct validity, and reliability of the scale were analyzed. EFA resulted in an 18-item scale with four factors including ‘self-value’, ‘perceived value from others’, ‘behavior with respect towards others’, and ‘self in relation to others’ for both older adults and college-age individuals. Older adults rated ‘behavior with respect towards others’ as the most important factor, while ‘self-value’ was considered the most important attribute of dignity in college-age individuals. Correlations between the JADS, SDS, and SES indicate attributed dignity is a unique concept. Findings indicate that the perception of attributed dignity varies across the lifespan. Consistent with a developmental perspective, older adults value their behavior most highly, while college-aged individuals are more focused on their own self-value. Understanding how the emphasis among factors of attributed dignity changes across the lifespan can provide direction for interventions to effectively enhance attributed dignity.
AWARENESS OF PERSONAL GAINS, MINDFULNESS, AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELLBEING AMONG DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS
Authors: Simon Darby , Plys Evan , Allen Elizabeth , Seward Morgan , Vranceanu Ana-Maria 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The current study tested if increased awareness of personal gains from caregiving and mindfulness skills each independently related to psychological well-being among caregivers of people living with dementia, beyond caregiver role-related factors. We conducted a secondary analysis of baseline data from 92 stressed caregivers, aged 22 to 83 years old (M=53.90, SD= 14.53), who participated in a clinical trial. Three separate multiple regression models tested the relationship between awareness of personal gains (Caregiver Reaction Scale- Personal Gain subscale), mindfulness (Applied Mindfulness Process Scale), and outcomes of depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS]-Depression), stress (Perceived Stress Scale-10), and anxiety (HADS-Anxiety), while controlling for role overload, caregiving competence, and hours of providing direct care per week. Results revealed that, in the full model, higher awareness of personal gains (β = -.31, p &lt;.001) was significantly related to lower levels of depression. Higher awareness of personal gains (β = -.23, p &lt;.05) and higher levels of mindfulness (β = -.18, p &lt;.05) were significantly related to lower levels of stress. Neither awareness of personal gains nor mindfulness predicted caregivers’ anxiety. These findings provide evidence that awareness of personal gains and mindfulness uniquely predict aspects of dementia caregivers’ psychological well-being, even after controlling for well-established predictors. Psychological interventions may target caregivers’ awareness of their personal gains and mindfulness to improve their caregiving experience and psychological health. Anxiety may require different treatment approaches.
BARRIERS AND FACILITATORS TO SOCIAL PARTICIPATION WHEN AGING WITH A LONG-TERM DISABILITY: A SCOPING STUDY
Authors: Turcotte Samuel , Kheroua Sirine , Labbé Angéline , Lapointe Mia , Nguyen Manh Hung , Veilleux Megan , Simard Pascale , Levasseur Melanie 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Introduction
Supporting the social participation of individuals aging with a long-term neurological disability contributes to active and healthy aging. However, knowledge about factors influencing the social participation of this population remains scarce.

Objectives
Integrate knowledge regarding the barriers and facilitators to social participation for people aging with a long-term neurological disability.

Methods
A scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines was conducted across four databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and EMBASE). Analysis relied on the Human Development Model - Disability Creation Process (HDM-DCP). This study is reported according to the PRISMA extension for scoping review (PRISMA-ScR).

Results
Eighteen articles (8 quantitatives and 10 qualitatives) representing 1,319 participants and eight neurological conditions (e.g., stroke, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, aphasia, post-polio, spina bifida, and cerebral palsy) were included. Participants’ average age ranged from 53.4 to 72 years and the average time since their disability ranged from 5 to 46.26 years. A total of 26 barriers and 42 facilitators to social participation were identified. The most recurrent barriers were associated with the organic system (e.g., presence of comorbidities) and the societal environment (e.g., transportation accessibility). The most frequent facilitators included identity factors (e.g., acceptance of one’s condition) and the community environment (e.g., available social participation opportunities).

Conclusion
This study lays the groundwork for developing interventions aimed at promoting active and fulfilling aging among older adults with long-term disabilities. Supporting social participation for this population should involve harnessing individual strengths and environmental resources as well as eliminating environmental systematic barriers.
BATTLING HEAT: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND HEALTH STRATEGIES FOR LOW-INCOME OLDER ADULTS LIVING ALONE
Authors: Zhong YunYing , Li Jianwen , Jackson Ajani , Kim Dahee , Thiamwong Ladda , Crook Jennifer , Emrich Christopher , Xie Rui 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Low-income older adults living alone are at higher risk for falls, social isolation, and worsening functions. The impacts of extreme heat on their health are worthy of further investigation. This study investigates the data from 45 low-income older adults living alone (M=76.6 years old, SD =7.42) in Florida to understand their responses and adaptation strategies to extreme heat or hot days. Most respondents (66.7%) reported discomfort, ranging from slightly uncomfortable (24.4%), uncomfortable (13.3%), very uncomfortable (24.4%), to extremely uncomfortable (4.4%). Less than half of participants (42.2%) reported feeling hot or very hot, and 71.1% reported feeling moderately thirsty to very very thirsty. Overall, participants rated the threat of hot weather on health and day-to-day activities as 5.44 out of 10 (SD=3.25). Despite participants recognizing the potential health risks, there is a disconnect between the perceived threat and actions taken to decrease it. Majority of them did not stay inside (64.4%), nor reduce physical activity (75.6%), nor visit a cool place (93.3%), nor stay hydrated (60.0%), nor take cold bath/shower (95.6%). They appeared lack of knowledge of managing heat in multiple ways, with most respondents reporting only one way to manage heat (57.8%). Most respondents are participating in programs in local senior centers (53.3%) and they have future interested in community programs on heat prevention (53.3%). These findings emphasize the need for specific community-based interventions that provide health strategies to adapt to the extreme heat to address the immediate comfort and health concerns of low-income older adults living alone.
BELIEFS ABOUT AGING AND TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE WITHIN SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES
Authors: Meynadasy Melissa , Bashian Hannah , Moye Jennifer , Sullivan Jennifer , Mills Whitney , Driver Jane , Ruopp Marcus , O’Malley Kelly 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Pessimism about aging is ubiquitous and impacts emotional well-being and willingness to implement healthcare strategies with older adults. Individuals experiencing increased stress may be motivated to differentiate themselves from an older, more vulnerable group, which may further intensify pessimistic beliefs. This is particularly important to consider in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) due to vulnerabilities residents experience. Healthcare environments/approaches can contribute to re-engagement with trauma symptoms, and pessimism about aging are related to trauma symptom endorsement. To explore how expectations about aging may impact staff perceptions of trauma-informed care (TIC), we assessed staff across disciplines (n = 78; nursing, rehabilitation, psychosocial, medical) in a sample of VA SNFs. Staff completed Expectations Regarding Aging (e.g., cognition, physical) and Attitudes Related to Trauma-Informed Care (e.g., beliefs about behavior) questionnaires. Higher total and subscale scores indicate positive expectations of aging and greater TIC endorsement. Expectations of aging differed significantly by discipline (F(3, 65) = 6.79, p &lt;.001, ƞ2 =.24); nurses had lower expectations compared to other disciplines – and a significant difference compared to rehabilitation staff (p =.001; Bonferroni correction). Expectations about aging were not significantly related to overall perceptions of TIC (p =.09). However, staff expectations about cognitive functioning, were positively correlated with TIC attitudes about underlying causes of behavior (r =.25, p =.037), suggesting accurate knowledge about cognitive aging relates to more accurate understanding of resident behavior. This preliminary work suggests beliefs about aging may be related to some but not all aspects of TIC attitudes.
BETTER TOGETHER? PERCEIVED PROSPECTIVE MEMORY FAILURES RELATE TO COGNITIVE COLLABORATION IN MIDDLE AND LATE LIFE
Authors: Sharma Anisha , Reese-Melancon Celinda , Margrett Jennifer , Wyatt Riley , Harrington Erin , Byrd-Craven Jennifer , Turner Rachael , Rendell Peter 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Research examining everyday memory among older couples indicates that partners rely on one another for cognitive support (e.g., Harris et al., 2022). We built upon this body of work to determine whether perceptions of a partner’s everyday prospective memory (PM) forgetfulness are related to the perceived cognitive support (e.g., planning, reminders) one offers the partner. Participants were 196 middle-aged and older married individuals (M = 64.51 years, Range = 40–88 years) who completed self and proxy versions of the Prospective and Retrospective Memory Questionnaire (Smith, 2000) as well as a measure of self-reported collaborative prospective memory (adapted from Reese-Melancon et al., 2018 and Harrington & Reese-Melancon, 2022). Regression analyses indicated that age and perceptions of one’s partner’s forgetfulness predicted significant variance in the amount of PM support one reports offering one’s partner. Participants who perceived greater PM forgetting in their partner reported providing more help to them, with older adults reporting providing more assistance to their partners. Additional analyses indicated biological sex and one’s own forgetfulness were significant predictors of respondents’ perceived support from their partners. Participants who reported more PM forgetting reported receiving more partner assistance with males reporting receiving more assistance than females. These findings contribute to our understanding of collaborative cognition in adulthood, especially prospective memory, an aspect of memory that is instrumental to the maintenance of independence in late life.
BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE: A USER-CENTERED DESIGN APPROACH TO ENHANCING SOCIAL CONNECTIVITY AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Chanquin Edward , Navarro Sheila Salinas , Falzarano Francesca 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Social isolation is highly prevalent among older adults, leading to negative health outcomes and increased healthcare costs. With the U.S. Census Bureau projecting a near doubling of adults aged 65 and older by 2060, addressing this issue is crucial. Innovative, user-centered solutions are imperative because older adults often face health, cognitive, and mobility limitations that diminish opportunities for engagement. Technologies can help overcome these barriers. This study aimed to develop a potential intervention to enhance social connectivity among older adults through user-centered design, understanding their needs in using digital technologies. This qualitative study employed an ethnographic approach, engaging 50 older adults in Los Angeles. Semi-structured interviews and participant observations were conducted. Thematic analysis informed the iterative design of a prototype named TwinFlame. The study revealed three key insights: 1. Older adults prioritized user-friendly interfaces facilitating communication with loved ones. 2. Participants expressed a need for educational support in using digital devices, particularly for advanced features. 3. Cultural competence was critical in ensuring inclusivity and acceptance of the proposed solution. TwinFlame, a device resembling a candle with integrated digital communication features, was developed to address these needs. Its design incorporates simplified interfaces, built-in tutorials, and culturally sensitive elements. While not yet tested, TwinFlame’s potential for enhancing social connectivity lies in its user-centered approach, directly addressing the identified needs of older adults. This research contributes to understanding how tailored digital tools can potentially reduce the digital divide and social isolation among older adults, highlighting the importance of user-centered design in gerontechnology.
CHILDHOOD SPEECH IMPAIRMENT AND DEMENTIA RISKS AMONG US OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Wang Haowei , Xu Shu , Pei Yalian 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Speech problems in childhood have profound implications for learning, communication, as well as the development of social and cognitive skills in adulthood. However, research has yet examined how early life speech problems may impact subsequent dementia risks in later life. Using a nationally representative data from the longitudinal Health and Retirement Study, this study investigated how the experience of speech problems before age 16 was associated with the risk of dementia among older adults aged 50 and older. We pooled the full life history information about childhood speech problems for N = 19,082 participants who had 1-11 observations for cognitive and sociodemographic information from 2000 to 2020. We constructed person-interval data and estimated discrete-time event history models to examine risks for developing dementia, which was measured using a validated Langa-Weir classification of cognitive function. We found that about 3.45% of US older adults had speech problems in childhood, with a higher prevalence for younger cohorts, male, and non-Hispanic White, compared to their counterparts. Results showed that older adults with childhood speech problems had higher risks of developing dementia in later life (RRR = 1.49, p &lt; 0.01), compared to those who never had speech problems in childhood. The effects of childhood speech problem on dementia risks were partially explained by BMI, activities of daily living (ADL) limitations, and cardiometabolic and depressive symptoms. Findings highlight the long-arm impact of early life health adversity and suggest the needs for screening and early intervention programs for childhood speech impairment.
COMPARING GAINS AND LOSSES: EXAMINING THE EFFECTS OF INCENTIVES ON WORKING MEMORY CAPACITY IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Pham Julie , Bowen Holly 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Aging is associated with declines in cognition, particularly in areas of working memory responsible for the temporary storage, processing, and manipulation of information. Prior studies have shown that the use of incentives can be successful at modulating cognition in older age. However, much of the previous work has largely focused on reward incentives. Limited research on loss avoidance incentives has been done to understand whether its use can differentially improve cognition, especially in working memory capacity. Arguably, this is an important area of focus as older adults can experience greater losses with age, such as in health, independence, and social networks, that may shift decision-making priorities towards conserving resources and minimizing decline. The current study aimed to investigate whether older adults prioritize gains or losses differently while completing a spatial working memory task. An online sample of 75 older adults (ages 60+) were recruited using the Cloud Research Connect Platform. Each participant completed both a reward and loss avoidance block using a single-item change detection task discriminating between different colored squares. A paired samples t-test was conducted to evaluate the effect of reward and loss avoidance conditions. Findings did not indicate a significant difference in working memory performance between conditions. This suggests that use of either rewards or loss incentives may not differentially improve working memory capacity and can both have potential benefits in modulating cognitive function in an older adult sample.