bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
EXPLORING THE LINK BETWEEN PLACE ATTACHMENT AND SOCIAL WELLBEING IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Cox Mary , Beatty Jennifer , Hill Patrick 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Many residents of St. Louis feel strong emotional bonds with the city, a phenomenon known as ‘place attachment.’ The relationship between place attachment and social well-being in older adults is a crucial area of study, particularly in an urban center like St. Louis, which has been the stage for important sociocultural events in Missouri. Research indicates that place attachment is positively correlated with social well-being and belonging. This connection is significant for older adults, as environments that promote social connection, autonomy, and security can support cognitive health and overall well-being in older adults. The current study tested our prediction that older adults with increased attachment to St. Louis will report higher levels of social well-being. Using survey data from 492 participants ages 65-85, we conducted correlational analyses to examine the relationship between intergroup anxiety and social well-being, exploring whether these associations differ based on levels of attachment to St. Louis. There were significant correlations between attachment to St. Louis (M=4.39, SD=1.31) and the well-being facets of social acceptance, social integration, social contribution, and social actualization (p&lt; 0.001); however, social coherence was not significantly associated with place attachment. Moreover, place attachment was not associated with other wellbeing indicators, such as self-reported intergroup anxiety. While place attachment has beneficial social outcomes, it does not improve all wellbeing indicators. This suggests that a strong bond with St. Louis may not address all social challenges, highlighting the need for further exploration of how urban environments can better support older adults’ psychological and social needs.
FAMILY HISTORY OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND LOCUS COERULEUS ACTIVATION IN HEALTHY OLDER AND YOUNGER ADULTS
Authors: Seago Elayna , Chen Ya-Yun , Lee Tae-Ho , Katz Ben 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The locus coeruleus (LC) is a small nucleus in the brainstem that produces the majority of norepinephrine in the brain. It engages in reciprocal communication with the frontoparietal network and the salience network, both networks that are critical for attention and undergo significant structural and functional changes during aging. Additionally, the LC is suggested as the primary region of early Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) pathology and its dysfunction may contribute to AD symptomology. It is largely unknown whether family history of AD is linked to LC activity or moderates the association between age and LC functional activity. In this study, functional MRI scans were collected while participants completed the Attentional Network Task. Neural activity in the LC was compared in congruent and incongruent conditions. Twenty-three out of 77 participants had a family history of AD. Participants age ranged from 18 to 74. Multiple regression analysis, controlling for gender, showed no main effect of age on left LC activation (p = 0.289); critically, there was a marginal main effect of family history of AD on left LC activation (p =.088) such that the activation in incongruent compared to congruent condition was higher in participants with a family history of AD than in participants without a family history of AD. We did not find an interaction between family history of AD and age (p =.180) or any right LC effects. These results demonstrate that AD family history is related to left LC activity in both younger and older adults.
FAMILY MATTERS: EFFECTS OF UNFAIRNESS AND DISAGREEMENT ON DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS’ GAINS AND BURDEN
Authors: Nah Suyoung , Savla Jyoti 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Although caregiving occurs within a family, the influence of family contexts on caregiver outcomes remains understudied. Building on the distributive justice framework and stress process theory, we examined whether an unequal division of care among adult siblings, perceived unfairness in the division, and family disagreement over parental care are associated with caregivers’ gains and role overload. We further explored whether perceived unfairness and family disagreement interact in predicting caregiver outcomes. Using data from the 2015 and 2017 National Health and Aging Trends Study and National Study of Caregiving, we examined adult child caregivers of persons living with dementia (N = 364 for cross-sectional analysis and N = 173 for longitudinal analysis; Mage = 54.0; White = 51%). Multivariate multilevel analysis was conducted to investigate the effects of these family contexts on caregivers’ gains and role overload. Caregivers who felt they were providing more care than their fair share experienced higher overload at initial assessment (β = 0.20, p =.001) and at follow-up (β = 0.23, p =.04). Greater family disagreement was associated with higher role overload at initial assessment (β = 0.33, p &lt;.001). Family disagreement moderated the effect of perceived unfairness, such that the perception of providing less care was linked to lower gains at follow-up only when family disagreement was high (β = -0.67, p &lt;.001). Findings highlight the importance of perceived unfairness and family disagreement in caregiver outcomes. Interventions should promote shared caregiving responsibilities and facilitate open communication within families about care dynamics.
FAMILY STRENGTH AND LIFE SATISFACTION IN OLDER ADULTS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS: A STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELING
Authors: Yang Eunjin , Kim Seohyeon 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Although family strength has been recognized as one of the crucial factors in the well-being and life satisfaction of people with disabilities, studies regarding its specific role in the life satisfaction of older adults with visual impairment are still limited. Therefore, this study aimed to explore how family strength affects life satisfaction, examining the mediating roles of self-esteem and disability acceptance in this relationship. Data were obtained from the 4th Disability and Life Dynamics Panel in South Korea, analyzing 386 participants aged 50 and above. Structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the direct and indirect effects among family strength, self-esteem, disability acceptance, and life satisfaction. The overall model fit indices met the recommended criteria, indicating the hypothesized model appropriately represented the relationships between family strength and life satisfaction among older adults with visual impairments (Normed χ2=1.876, TLI=.985, CFI=.993, RMSEA=.048, SRMR=.017). The results revealed that family strength enhances life satisfaction, both directly and indirectly through promoting self-esteem and disability acceptance. These findings suggest that an integrated approach focusing on strengthening family support, as well as enhancing self-esteem and disability acceptance, is recommended to improve life satisfaction for older adults with visual impairment. This study contributes to a better understanding of mechanisms underlying life satisfaction in older adults with visual impairments. In addition, it provides valuable insights for developing targeted interventions to enhance family strengths and to create supportive strategies for this vulnerable population.
FOUR TYPES OF FINANCIAL SUPPORT AMONG “SANDWICHED” MIDDLE-AGED ADULTS: LIFE AND FAMILY RELATIONSHIP SATISFACTION
Authors: Cho Hyeonji , Chin Meejung , García Catherine 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Middle-aged adults who provide supports to both their parents and children – often referred to as the “sandwiched generation” – are at higher risk for poor mental health. However, within the Korean cultural context, where strong expectations for intergenerational financial support exists, may influence the well-being of individual’s who either fulfill or fail to meet these expectations. This study classified middle-aged adults into four groups based on their financial support patterns: (a) Supporting both parents and children, (b) supporting only parents, (c) supporting only children, and (d) Supporting neither. Using data from the 25th wave (2022) of the Korean Labor and Income Panel Study (KLIPS), we analyzed 1,975 middle-aged householders aged 40-64, all of whom have at least one living parent and co-reside with at least one child ([a]=72.6%, [b]=14.2%, [c]=9.8%, [d]=3.4%). Controlling for sociodemographic and economic characteristics, we conducted linear regression analyses to examine the association between financial support groups (group [a] as the base level) and life satisfaction indicators (i.e. overall life satisfaction and family relationship satisfaction). Regarding overall life satisfaction, group (a) was more satisfied than group (b) (B=-0.09, p=.031) and (c) (B=-0.16, p&lt;.001). Additionally, group (a) was more satisfied in their family relations than group (c) (B=-0.14, p=.002) and (d) (B=-0.14, p=.046). These results suggest that, in Korea, the societal expectation to fulfill financial responsibilities towards parents may contribute to a greater sense of life satisfaction among those who successfully meet these obligations, whereas those unable to do so might experience diminished well-being.
FREQUENCY OF SOCIAL MEDIA USE IS ASSOCIATED WITH DELAY DISCAOUNTING IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Walton Allison , Moss Daniel , Stephan Abigail , Ross Lesley , Phillips Christine 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Delay discounting is the decline in the perceived value of a reward as the time to reward receipt increases. Individuals who discount more steeply favor smaller more immediate rewards (i.e., impulsive choices) over larger delayed rewards (i.e., self-controlled choices). Social media and smartphone engagement, whereby users have instant access to information or social networks, are linked with higher delay discount rates in younger adults. However, there is a dearth of research surrounding this relationship in older adults. The present study examined associations between delay discounting, use of health and financial tracking apps, and social media use, as well as age as a potential moderator, in community-dwelling adults ages 55 years and older (M=68.64, SD=8.2, n=120) enrolled in the Tracking Real-world Activities in Life Study. Delay discount rate was assessed using the Monetary Choice Questionnaire. Three self-report items assessed frequency of app and social media use. Multiple linear regression results indicated delay discount rate was positively associated only with social media use, statistically controlling for age (β =.17, t(118) = 2.14, p =.035). Age did not moderate this relationship. Results suggest that regardless of age, more frequent social media use is linked with greater preference for immediate rewards. Future research should explore whether frequent engagement with social media increases delay discount rate or if those who discount more steeply are more inclined to engage with social media. Additionally, potential interventions targeting impulsivity and delay discounting are needed in this population who are at risk of online scams
FROM THE PERSPECTIVES OF PROVIDERS TO OLDER ADULTS: CONVERSATIONS ABOUT BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES IN OREGON
Authors: Hews Ellis , Himes Dani , Stodola Allyson , Dys Sarah , Dawson Walter 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Older Adult Behavioral Health Initiative (OABHI) is an innovative program funded by the Oregon Health Authority to address gaps in services for older adults and people with physical disabilities with behavioral health (BH) issues. The Initiative consists of 24 Behavioral Health Specialists who work with community partners across Oregon to improve BH services through workforce development, health and wellness promotion, complex care consultations, and promoting coordination and collaboration between aging and BH agencies. The Institute on Aging (IOA) at Portland State University (PSU) has evaluated the effectiveness of the Initiative since its establishment in 2015. Prior evaluation efforts included interviews and surveys from key community partners, staff from Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRC), Aging and People with Disabilities (APD), and Community Mental Health Programs (CMHPs). As the Initiative comes upon nearly ten years of existence, the evaluation team conducted a new evaluation approach by facilitating focus groups with these key community partners in addition to primary care providers, older adults (65+) with lived experience, and senior centers representing 25 rural and urban Oregon counties (n=54). Participants were asked about the top challenges in their communities and how the Initiative can better address their biggest needs when supporting older adults and people with physical disabilities living with behavioral health issues. Findings from these data identify recommendations to address systems-level barriers and opportunities to promote intra-agency collaboration and outreach to community partners and consumers.
GLOBAL DEMOGRAPHIC-CULTURAL SHIFTS AND ‘KINLESSNESS’: RECONSIDERING INTERGENERATIONAL THEORIES
Authors: Mair Christine , Anderson Rose 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Demographic and cultural shifts such as declining fertility, expanding longevity, and shifts toward individualism (e.g., living alone) have contributed to changes in intergenerational relationships among aging populations cross-nationally. Specifically, the proportion of older adults who do not have children or partners (“kinless”) is expected to increase substantially in nearly all regions of the globe over the next 50 years. Yet, these shifts do not occur evenly across low-, middle-, and high-income countries. Such substantial demographic-cultural changes and cross-national inequalities will require that scholars reconsider existing concepts and theories of intergenerational relationships. In this paper, we analyze publicly available aggregate, country-level data from Our World in Data and the World Values Survey from multiple time periods to explore trends in fertility, longevity, population age composition, rates of living alone and one-person households, rates of “kinlessness”, and cultural endorsement of values associated with individualism and friendship in low-, middle-, and high-income countries. The results illustrate differences by countries and regions, which highlight areas for future conceptual development. Based on these results, we propose new directions for gerontological theories, measurement, and policy regarding intergenerational relationships, parenthood and partnership, childlessness and “kinlessness,” and siblings, extended family, and friendships that address the shifting characteristics of intergenerational relationships globally.
HEARING LOSS AND LONELINESS AMONG OLDER ADULTS: LIVING ALONE AS A RISK FACTOR
Authors: Birditt Kira , Turkelson Angela , Noyer Emily , Weber Emma , Ng Crystal 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Hearing loss is a leading source of disability within the United States, affecting up to 65% of adults aged 71 and older in the United States. Hearing loss is associated with greater loneliness which is also common among older adults and predicts a range of negative health outcomes. However, little is known about whether hearing loss predicts changes in loneliness over time. Further, adults who live alone with hearing loss may be particularly at risk for loneliness. Using newly released longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study (2018 and 2022), this study seeks to examine the implications of hearing loss for loneliness over time. Participants included respondents (N = 2,753) who participated in 2018 and 2022 waves (ages 50 to 97; 60% women). Participants completed an in person hearing test and questionnaires in which they reported loneliness with the three item UCLA loneliness scale. A total of 72% of the respondents had mild to severe hearing loss and 20% lived alone. Multilevel models controlling for age, gender, race and education showed that having worse hearing predicted greater loneliness. Worse hearing predicted increased loneliness over time among older adults living alone but not those living with others. Hearing loss is an important risk factor for loneliness among older adults with those who live alone at greatest risk. Further research should examine whether using hearing aids reduces the negative implications of hearing loss for loneliness and examine factors that predict hearing aid use among older adults who live alone.
HOW FORMAL AND INFORMAL HEALTHCARE KNOWLEDGE IMPACT DEMENTIA CAREGIVER PREPAREDNESS
Authors: Thomas Zoe , Falzarano Francesca 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Dementia family caregivers frequently experience significant burden and depressive symptoms, which can harm their health and impair their ability to fulfill caregiving responsibilities. Previous research has shown that greater dementia knowledge or health literacy improves caregivers’ psychological symptoms and helps them feel more prepared for their role. Socioeconomic status and education are also strong predictors of health literacy. However, much of this research has been conducted in Asia, indicating there is a need to investigate dementia literacy further in the United States. This qualitative study aims to explore how formal versus informal healthcare system knowledge affects dementia family caregivers’ feelings of preparedness. Formal knowledge is defined as being obtained from a job or school education before becoming a caregiver. Informal knowledge includes doing independent research online, learning from support groups, and any past caregiving experience or managing personal healthcare. Knowledge as a theme emerged in 8 out of 30 caregiver semi-structured interviews, with excerpts subsequently analyzed and coded using reflexive thematic analysis. Results show that caregivers with formal knowledge of the healthcare system had a better grasp of dementia progression, felt more confident in discussions with physicians, and were better prepared to mitigate safety risks in the person with dementia. In contrast, those with informal knowledge displayed greater uncertainty and relied more heavily on the physician to validate their decisions. The findings highlight the advantages of formal healthcare knowledge in facilitating preparedness and indicate the need for educational interventions to improve health literacy among dementia family caregivers.
I THINK I KNOW HOW YOU FEEL: NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL CORRELATES OF EMOTION PERCEPTION IN FRONTOTEMPORAL DEMENTIA
Authors: Toledo Anna , Paruchuri Nishita , Yokoyama Sae , Chen Enna , Hua Alice , Kramer Joel , Levenson Robert , Brown Casey 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases lead to deficits in cognitive functioning that could disrupt the ability to perceive others’ emotions. We examined whether cognitive deficits in semantic knowledge and executive function relate to two aspects of emotion perception. Individuals with frontotemporal dementia and healthy controls (N = 110; 33 behavioral variant, 23 non-fluent variant, 30 semantic variant, and 24 healthy controls) completed cognitive tests of semantic word knowledge (Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test and Boston Naming Test) and executive function (Digit Span Backwards, Stroop, Design Fluency, and Trail-Making). To assess different facets of emotion perception, participants completed an emotion labeling task that measured the ability to identify specific emotions (sad, happy) experienced by characters in films and an emotion tracking task that measured the ability to continuously track the emotional valence of a character in a film using a rating dial. Regression analyses revealed that semantic word knowledge was associated with emotion labeling but not emotion tracking, even after accounting for relevant covariates (diagnosis, age, sex, global cognition, and dementia severity). Executive function was associated with both emotion labeling and emotion tracking, even when accounting for covariates. Steiger’s Z test revealed that executive function was more strongly associated with emotion valence tracking than with emotion category labeling. Findings reveal how distinct neurocognitive abilities are linked with unique facets of emotion perception. Semantic word knowledge may subserve the ability to distinguish between specific emotion categories and executive function may be more important when continuously updating one’s unfolding emotions than making a single emotional judgment.
IDENTIFYING MULTIMORBIDITY RISKS IN OLDER ADULTS: TEN YEAR REVIEW USING THE RGA TOOL
Authors: Cho Jinmyoung , Wang Wenjin , Zubatsky Max , Gibson Allison , Berg-Weger Marla 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Approximately one in two older adults in the U.S. experiences multimorbidity, defined as the coexistence of two or more chronic diseases. The consequences of multimorbidity are significant, including increased vulnerability to acute illness, exacerbation of existing conditions, frequent hospitalizations, and elevated medical costs. Identifying the risk factors for multimorbidity in advance can guide healthcare service decision-making and help prevent adverse outcomes. This project utilized geriatric syndromes from the Rapid Geriatric Assessment (RGA) tool to assess the risk of multimorbidity. The RGA includes four geriatric syndromes: frailty, sarcopenia, geriatric anorexia, and cognitive decline. It was administered to a total of 16,615 individuals aged 65 years and over across Missouri from 2015 to 2024. Multimorbidity was defined as having five or more illnesses, which is one of frailty screening measures. Nearly 40% of the participants reported having five or more illnesses (37.3%). After controlling for age group, sex, race, and ethnicity, logistic regression analysis showed that the prevalence of sarcopenia (OR=3.807 [3.488 – 4.156], p &lt;.001), geriatric anorexia (OR = 1.329 [1.224 – 1.443], p &lt;.001), and dementia (OR=1.273 [1.158 – 1.401], p &lt;.001) were significantly associated with having multimorbidity. This project provides evidence that the RGA is a valid screening tool for identifying multimorbidity across different practice settings and geographic regions of Missouri. The findings underscore the importance of early detection of geriatric syndromes to prevent further morbidity and disability among older adult populations.