bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
DO TRAJECTORIES OF SELF-IDENTIFIED RETIREMENT STATUS PREDICT HEALTH AND COGNITIVE OUTCOMES?
Authors: Oh Yun taek , Smith Jacqui 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Few studies examined the ways older workers self-identify their retirement status (named ‘retirement identity’) over time before exiting the workforce. Examining the trajectories of retirement identity transitions – between “not retired”, “partly retired”, and “completely retired” – clarifies the heterogeneous outcomes found in ‘static’ retirement identity. In this study, we distinguish and categorize these trajectories using sequence analysis, investigate the common sociodemographic and economic characteristics for each trajectory using multinomial logistic regression, and examine the associations between these trajectories and the physical and mental health conditions of older workers using latent growth modeling. Drawing on a sample of respondents from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) from 1992 to 2020, we use the first nine waves of the initial HRS birth cohort (born 1931-1936, recruited in 1992, N=1,487) and the Early Baby Boomers (born 1948-1953, recruited in 2004, N=1,017). We determine and name four distinct categories of trajectories – early, late, traditional, and partial transitions – based on the timing and sequence of transitions. The membership of these trajectories is strongly associated with the birth cohort, educational attainment, labor income from career jobs, and household wealth. The latent growth modeling reveals that workers in late or partial transition trajectories tend to have better initial physical, mental, and cognitive health and experience slower deterioration of these than those in early or traditional transition trajectories. These results suggest a close relationship between health and self-identification of retirement status that may influence the work attachment and timing of workforce exit.
WORK TO RETIREMENT: EXAMINING THE ROLE OF RETIREMENT IN THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN AWARENESS OF AGING AND SLEEP HEALTH
Authors: Dewansingh Neha , Calfee Kristin , Smith Claire , Lee Soomi 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Individuals of all ages require adequate sleep to maintain a healthy lifestyle; sleep health is especially vital in older adults, but often degraded after retirement. Poor sleep puts older adults at risk for physical and cognitive impairments, which can increase fall risk, difficulty performing daily activities, and chronic conditions like Type 2 diabetes. Awareness of aging (AoA), or consciousness around one’s aging experiences, has been linked to promoting health behaviors such as exercising. Sleep is a health behavior; yet its association with AoA has been little studied. Both sleep and AoA may change through retirement, and the association between them may also differ by retirement status. We investigated these relationships using a self-report composite measure of sleep health across multiple dimensions (i.e., regularity, satisfaction, alertness, efficiency, and duration) in a national sample of adults (n=668; Mage=63yrs) from the Midlife in the United States study, controlling for sociodemographic covariates and self-rated health. Results demonstrated that higher AoA was associated with worse sleep health for both retired and non-retired adults (B=-0.256, SE=0.083, p=0.002), with more pronounced association for retirees (B=-0.418, SE=0.178, p=0.019). Such findings suggest that higher awareness around aging surprisingly relates to greater disruptions in sleep health for older adults, particularly in retirees, counter to prior work emphasizing the health benefits of AoA. Future research could examine how and why retirees experience unanticipated negative side effects of AoA such as sleep disruptions. Limitations and directions for future research will be discussed, with potential methods for managing AoA by specific contexts.
DOES INTERNET USE MODERATE THE RURAL–URBAN DISPARITIES IN HEALTH AMONG BRAZILIAN OLDER ADULTS?
Authors: Chen Xiayu , Rodriguez Tania , Wu Rachel , Andrade Flávia 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Although prior research has noted the benefits of Internet use on physical and mental health among older adults in developed countries, its impact within less developed countries, particularly in Latin America concerning rural-urban disparities, is poorly understood. This study investigated the health disparities between rural and urban older adults in Brazil and examined how Internet use moderated these disparities. Data from the second wave of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging with 9,751 adults aged 50 and above were analyzed. The outcome variables include the number of chronic conditions, limitations in basic and instrumental activities of daily living (ADL & IADL), depressive symptoms and cognitive functioning. Using a series of weight-adjusted multivariate linear regression analyses, we found that compared to the older adults who lived in rural areas, urban residents tended to have more chronic conditions, IADL disabilities, higher depressive symptoms, but better cognitive functioning. A significant interaction between Internet use and rural-urban residency was identified for chronic conditions (β=0.72, 95% CI= 0.55-0.94), cognitive functioning (β=0.85, 95% CI=0.73-0.99), and depressive symptoms (β=1.40, 95% CI=1.04-1.89), indicating that Internet use mitigated the rural-urban disparity in chronic conditions and cognitive functioning, while it increased the disparity in depressive symptoms. The study’s findings underscore the potential of Internet use as a means to reduce health disparities among older adults in Brazil. Future interventions could include targeted digital inclusion strategies tailored to address the socioeconomic challenges in rural areas to leverage the benefits of the Internet.
HOME AND COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICE NEEDS AMONG RURAL CARE PARTNERS OF US VETERANS: FINDINGS FROM QUALITATIVE RESEARCH
Authors: Marfeo Elizabeth , Chamberlin Elizabeth , Venegas Maria , Moo Lauren 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The number older adults living in rural areas of the US is increasing. This demographic shift presents challenges for ensuring access to home and community-based services (HCBS) among rural older adults. We conducted a qualitative study to explore HCBS needs among family caregivers (N = 19) whose care partner is a rural older (&lt; 65) Veteran with complex care needs via semi-structured qualitative interviews. All participants were recruited through the Veterans Health Administration’s Caregiver Support Program. An iterative content analysis was guided by Andersen’s Behavioral Model of Health Services Use. Three a priori domains for coding were initially used: psychosocial, enabling, and need factors. Key themes related to service access and use emerged including (1) significant objective and subjective health needs among both the CG and Veteran; (2) limited accessibility to health services and respite supports; (3) financial needs beyond healthcare costs; and (4) variation in attitudes, beliefs, and perceived control regarding care preferences and values from the perspective of the CG and Veteran. Most caregivers reported living in the home with the Veteran yet receiving no additional HCBS. Overall family caregivers reported taking immense pride in caring for their loved one but cited several areas of unmet needs related to accessibility and utilization of HCBS in their rural communities. These findings have important implications for identifying future pathways to increase access to HCBS, ultimately improving both rural-residing family caregiver and Veteran health and quality of life.
SUBSTANCE USE AND ABUSE IN NEW HAMPSHIRE, MISSISSIPPI, AND WYOMING: FINDINGS FROM THE HEALTHY AGING DATA REPORTS
Authors: Fleet Alexa , Boateng Josephine , Siebecker Megan , Dugan Elizabeth 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Addiction issues in older adults are prevalent, yet often undetected or untreated, and can contribute to poor physical health, increased disability, and earlier mortality. The current study describes state rates of substance use indicators of older adults 65+ in NH, MI, and WY, and drug overdose deaths for all ages. These three states were chosen due to the high percentages of older adults residing in rural areas. The data sources are the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (2013-2020) and the Medicare Current Beneficiary Summary File (2018). Small area estimation techniques were used to calculate age-sex-adjusted community rates for more than 150 health indicators. This research examines disparities in rates for three substance use and abuse-related indicators: substance (drug and alcohol) use disorder, tobacco use disorder, and opioid deaths. Substance use disorders rates among 65+: MI 3.9%, NH 5.5%, and WY 2.4%. Tobacco Use Disorder or Current Smoker among adults 65+: MI 13.1%, NH 10.4%, and WY 11.1%. Drug overdose deaths (all ages): MI n=2,137, NH n=1,279, and WY n=1,225. Results showed variability in rates across states. MI had the highest community rates of tobacco use/smoking rates and drug overdose deaths. NH had the lowest rates for smoking but the highest rates for substance use disorders. Wyoming had the lowest substance use disorder rates and lowest drug overdose deaths. Understanding the distribution of rates makes disparities evident and may aid practitioners and policymakers in allocating resources to areas of highest need.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN SENSORY IMPAIRMENTS AND PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES AMONG OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Shannon Zoe , Steinman Bernard A 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Older adults with sensory impairments (SI) experience barriers to participation that could impact their quality of life and well-being. Participation limitations associated with SI have also been associated with health-related outcomes, including chronic disease, mobility difficulties, impairments in daily activities, and demographic factors. In this study, we assessed the association between functional SI and participation in community activities, while holding other health dimensions constant. Using two waves (2011 and 2015) of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), we computed five ordinal logistic regression models to assess associations between SI change and participation. Sensory impairments were operationalized via self-reported measures of everyday visual, hearing, and dual functioning (e.g., ability to carry on a conversation in a quiet room). “Participation” was operationalized using six items that assessed participation in social and community-based activities (e.g., doing volunteer work). We created a change-in-participation variable by subtracting participation in 2015 from the baseline. Without other covariables, only functional vision status was statistically associated with participation. When all other covariates were included in the final model, statistical effects of functional vision were eliminated, and only age and chronic health conditions predicted change in participation. These results point to the importance of developing community support and reducing barriers to participation by older adults with functional SI. Creating social and physical environments that consider vision, hearing, and dual sensory impairments can foster greater participation among older adults with SI. Consideration of sensory functioning can also promote well-being that is associated with continued engagement in the community.
IF I COULD TURN BACK TIME: A THREE-YEAR LONGITUDINAL ASSESSMENT OF MUSIC ENJOYMENT IN OLDER ADULT HEARING AID USERS
Authors: Alter Isaac , Chern Alexander , Denham Michael , Leiderman Alexis , Galatioto Jessica , Jones Jennifer , Lalwani Anil 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Introduction
Hearing loss (HL) is remarkably prevalent among older individuals, and is associated with worsened music enjoyment and perception. We sought to examine longitudinal changes in music enjoyment among long-term hearing aid (HA) users.

Methods
Adult HA users were recruited from a tertiary academic medical center and community setting. Participants reported their music listening habits and subjective music enjoyment using 10-point Likert scales, and underwent a melody discernment listening task, once between July-November 2020 and again three years later. Paired t-tests were used to compare participants’ responses between time points, and multiple linear regression was employed to investigate relationships between hearing levels (measured by pure tone average (PTA) of the better hearing ear) and music enjoyment.

Results
Thirty-nine HA users participated, with an average (SD) age of 72.9 (7.8) and 24.3 (18.3) years of HA use. Despite a significant increase in PTA from 2020 to 2023 (47.2 to 52.6, p&lt; 0.001), there was no significant change in time spent listening to music, overall music enjoyment, or melody discernment ability across the two time points. However, there was a significant association between change in PTA and music enjoyment, with a one-point worsening in PTA between 2020-2023 correlating to a 0.14-point decrease in music enjoyment (p=0.041).

Conclusion
Our results suggest that despite worsening hearing over time, older HA users do not uniformly report reduction in music enjoyment or time spent listening to music, nor do their melody discrimination abilities diminish. However, more severe worsening in hearing may predict lower self-reported music enjoyment.
CONNECTED YET VULNERABLE: SOCIAL ISOLATION PROFILES AND MENTAL HEALTH AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH LOW SES
Authors: Sung Pildoo , Lee June , Chan Angelique 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Despite growing attention to social isolation and loneliness, there remains a gap in understanding how these factors intersect in shaping comprehensive social isolation profiles among vulnerable older adults and their mental health implications. Using various objective and subjective indicators of social isolation, this study aimed to identify social isolation profiles and their direct and stress-buffering roles against depressive symptoms among community-dwelling older adults with low socioeconomic status. Data were collected from 881 older adults aged 55 and above in the Chin Swee area of Singapore where older adults with lower socioeconomic status reside in small rental housing. Latent class analysis and multivariable regression yielded three key findings. First, four distinct social isolation profiles were identified, namely “strongly connected, less lonely (27.9%),” “moderately connected, less lonely (56.4%),” “moderately connected, moderately lonely (11.2%),” and “restricted, severely lonely (4.4%).” Second, older adults in the “moderately connected, moderately lonely” and “weakly connected, severely lonely” profiles tended to report poorer mental health than those in the “strongly connected, less lonely” profile. Third, “moderately connected and moderately lonely” older adults were at a higher risk of depression in the presence of significant life stressors, compared to their less lonely counterparts with strong social connectedness. These findings highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing social isolation and loneliness among disadvantaged older adults in the community. Interventions should not only target disconnected and severely lonely older adults but also extend support to moderately connected yet lonely older adults, recognizing their vulnerability to life stressors.
DRIVERS OF SOCIAL WITHDRAWAL IN INDIVIDUALS WITH ALZHEIMER’S: AN ANALYSIS OF ONLINE PERSONAL NARRATIVES
Authors: Hemmy Laura , Wong Yun Leng , Conway Mike , Lozoya Daniel Cabrera , Lim Kelvin , Mikal Jude 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The relationship between social isolation and cognitive impairment is a pernicious cycle. On the one hand, social isolation is associated with an increase in risk of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and of AD progression; and on the other hand, the hallmark symptoms of increased cognitive and functional impairment have been shown to increase social withdrawal among individuals living with AD. As researchers, care providers, and clinicians design interventions to interrupt this cycle, it becomes necessary to understand the lived experiences and perspectives of persons living with AD, including the emotional, cognitive, and sensory drivers of isolation and withdrawal. The preponderance of research on social isolation and AD focuses on correlations and risk prediction models. Our study expands on this foundation through a focus on the catalysts, motivations, and consequences of increased social isolation among individuals with AD. Using the personal narratives of 8 individuals living with early onset AD maintained in publicly available blogs, we use a grounded theory approach to develop a conceptual model describing the emergence, predictors, and consequences of social withdrawal among individuals living with AD. Analysis revealed 5 key themes: (1) sensory symptoms of AD and impacts on social engagement, (2) cognitive symptoms of AD and impacts on engagement, (3) evolution of existing networks of support, (4) elective withdraw from social networks, and (5) consequences of withdrawal for individuals with AD and their care providers. Themes are then situated within contemporary research on AD and AD care, and include insights into key points of intervention.
SOCIAL ISOLATION AND SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING AMONG OLDER ADULTS: AN EXAMINATION BY RACE/ETHNICITY AND GENDER
Authors: Nguyen Nhan , Lin Zhiyong 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Social isolation has emerged as a significant social determinant of health in later life. However, our understanding of how this link may vary across race/ethnicity and gender remains limited. To address this gap, we utilized longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study (2008-2020) to investigate the association between social isolation and subjective well-being (life satisfaction, positive/negative affection) among older adults. We examined variations in this relationship across race/ethnicity and gender subgroups. Our results demonstrate that social isolation is consistently linked to reduced subjective well-being for older adults, irrespective of race/ethnicity and gender. However, we observed nuances in this association among Hispanic older adults. Specifically, while both White and Hispanic older adults exhibit higher subjective well-being when they are not or rarely isolated compared to Black individuals and their isolated counterparts, among socially isolated older adults, particularly isolated men, Hispanic individuals tend to report higher levels of subjective well-being compared to their White and Black counterparts. Moreover, significant gender disparities in subjective well-being were identified among socially isolated older adults across all racial/ethnic groups, with women experiencing greater disadvantage compared to men. We also found that economic resources and health-related factors mediate the relationship between social isolation and subjective well-being. This study underscores the critical importance of addressing social isolation as a potential risk factor for mental health among older adults, especially those in vulnerable groups. It emphasizes the necessity for targeted interventions aimed at reducing social isolation and promoting social engagement within diverse communities to mitigate mental health disparities.
THE CONFLUENCE OF SOCIAL ISOLATION, LONELINESS, AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH COGNITIVE DECLINE
Authors: Svec Joseph , Hyun Jinshil , Lee JeongEun 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Numerous studies indicate that social isolation and loneliness are crucial predictors of cognitive decline among older adults. Specifically, cognitive functioning (i.e. memory) is positively linked with robust social connections (Kang and Oremus, 2023). While social isolation and loneliness have gained considerable attention in recent literature, there remains substantial ambiguity in the distinct impacts of isolation and loneliness where both are often treated as part of a similar construct or examined separately (Boss et al., 2015). Given the potential ramifications for cognitive functioning, as well as implications for pragmatic solutions regarding social, environmental, and technological approaches, this study seeks to examine and investigate both the independent and concurrent effects of isolation and loneliness on cognitive functioning. Using data from eight waves of Health and Retirement Study (HRS) data, we utilize fixed effects linear regression models of older adults’ (60 years or older) immediate and delayed memory recall score on measures of social isolation, feelings of loneliness, as well as their interactions (N = 44,170). Analyses emphasize within-person associations of memory and covariates. We observe significant and negative associations of isolation (coeff = -0.02, p &lt; 0.01) and loneliness (coeff = -0.08, p &lt; 0.01) for both immediate and delayed recall score. However, a positive and significant interaction of loneliness and isolation indicates that feelings of loneliness is more strongly associated with immediate and delayed memory when social isolation is low (frequently meets with family or friends) – when social isolation is high, the association of loneliness and cognitive functioning is limited.
MATURE RELIGION AT 75: AN APPRAISAL OF GORDON ALLPORT’S (1950) “THE INDIVIDUAL AND HIS RELIGION”
Authors: Mirarchi Kelly , Hope Peter , Sommers Delaney , Thompson Edward , Iwasaki Michiko , Futterman Andrew 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In his classic manuscript, Gordon Allport (1950) presented his theory of the development of the “religious sentiment”. Allport posited that personal religiousness is similar to other “sentiments” (i.e., guiding principles of behavior) and matures for some individuals. For those who are religiously-oriented, religious behavior is enacted in childhood first to obtain diffuse social and emotion benefits. As these individuals age, religious behavior becomes more intrinsically motivated, and religion directs and integrates adult life. The transition from child-like, extrinsically motivated religion to a more mature religion occurs, for Allport, usually in midlife, as religious doubts are resolved in the course of daily life. We examine Allport’s theory of religious maturity in light of recent research on aging and religious development, research on complexity of thought and emotion in later life, and our own study of religious complexity in later life involving 278 open-ended interviews of individuals aged 55-101. We argue that, in many respects, Allport’s theory has stood the test of time – nearly 75 years - remarkably well. For one thing, Allport (1950) anticipates the main finding of recent research on complexity and aging and is in keeping with findings of our own study, that older adults tolerate their doubts (in this case, their religious doubts) better as they age, and test, affirm, and sometimes change beliefs through social interactions. From our findings, for many individuals, their personal religiousness does seem become more mature – more intrinsic, more integrated, more directing – just as Allport posited.