bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
UNTOLD STORIES OF AGING – FOSTERING INTERGENERATIONAL DIALOGUE THROUGH AN ART-BASED COMMUNITY ACTION PROJECT
Authors: Jen Sarah 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Individuals who can imagine their aging futures are better prepared for the aging process. However, stories of later life often go untold, limiting public understanding of this complex phase of life. The Untold Stories of Aging Project was created to combat societal ageism through encouraging the creation of aging-focused art and intergenerational dialogue. Between 2021 - 2024, we have amassed a digital art exhibition including over 50 pieces of artwork from over 40 artists. Seven individual artists or groups have received awards for their submissions, honoring the evocative impact of their pieces, their connections to aging-related insights, and their creativity and originality. We present findings from interviews with awardees who discussed their artistic process, lessons learned about their own aging futures, and the intergenerational dialogue surrounding their pieces. Artists often cited intergenerational dialogue or the importance of family relationships as the motivation for their pieces. For example, one 26-year-old chose to challenge ageist stereotypes through her art following a conversation with her mother who described being perceived as “incapable” as she aged. Older artists shared how meaningful it was to be recognized as artists, with one 90-year-old stating, “It’s thrilling to know that something we are doing in such a common and ordinary way is impressive to anybody.” Through this project, artists have cultivated space for older adults to share their stories and legacies, illustrating how art and surrounding dialogue can combat societal ageism, foster intergenerational healing, and inspire audiences to consider and plan for their own aging futures.
WHAT ARE FAMILY CAREGIVERS NOT PREPARED FOR?
Authors: Singh Roshni , Lamba Saanvi , Munoz Richard , Tyagi Pranjal , Garcia-Davis Sandra , Dang Stuti , Ruiz Diana ,   VA Elizabeth Dole Center of Excellence
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Informal family caregivers of patients have a myriad of non-medical needs that are burdensome to caregivers and critical for disease management. Yet, caregivers are often not adequately prepared to address the needs of their Veterans. This study aimed to identify what caregivers feel unprepared for. We used round one data from the HERO CARE Survey. Here, we describe the preparedness of caregivers of Veterans, who responded to the following open-ended question: Out of all the tasks that you help the Veteran with, Is there anything specific you would like to be better prepared for? Qualitative responses to the open-ended question were coded and analyzed thematically. We received responses from 690 caregivers, 68.2 (SD: 12.2) years-old on average, 601 (87.1%) female, 70.7% non-Hispanic White, 62.0% spousal caregivers, 83.8% primary caregivers and 46.8% had provided care for &gt;5 years. Twenty-one (3.0%) felt not prepared, 345 (50.0%) somewhat prepared, and 342 (49.6%) very prepared. Caregivers most important concerns reported were dealing with changes related to declining health (20.4%), equipment/home modifications (10.6%), dealing with memory loss (9.6%), advocating for services (8.8%), preparing for the future (7.8%), managing finances/legal matters (7.1%), mobility/falls/transfers (7.0%), respite/HHA (6.8%), handle emergencies (5.2%), and financial assistance (4.3%). Caregivers will be able to better meet the needs of patients if they are more prepared with the knowledge and skills to do their caregiving tasks. Developing ways to provide support, education, training, and resources will be pivotal in improving outcomes for veterans and their caregivers.
WHAT KIND OF HEALTH SCREENING IS USEFUL FOR PERSONS AGING WITH HIV?
Authors: Ramos Manuel , Brage Shelby , Nouryan Christian , Hirsch Bruce , McGowan Joseph , Mattam Ashwin , Burns Edith 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
In the United States, 54% of people aging with HIV (PAWH) are age &gt;/= 50 and 89.7% are virally suppressed. HIV is linked to increased risk of developing comorbidities and may accelerate aging. This population may not receive adequate screening for changes related to advancing age. We describe initial findings of a “Maturity Screen” for PAWH.

Methods
Setting and population. Convenience sample of PAWH aged 50 years or older receiving care at an HIV specialty clinic in a major metropolitan area. Patients completed a series of measures administered by trained care team members. Measures. sociodemographic (e.g., age, sex), comorbid conditions. Maturity Screen: MoCA, PHQ2, ADL, IADL, GAD2, gait speed and Edmonton Frail Scale.

Results
82 participants were screened to-date; 41 males, 36 females, 4 unknown. Mean age 63 (SD: 7.6 yrs.); mean # comorbid conditions 1.8 (SD: 1.3, range 0-5); top four comorbidities were hyperlipidemia (56%), hypertension (43%), diabetes (11%), and CKD (11%). Mean MoCA 24.9 (SD: 3.7, range 15-30); mean PHQ2 0.6 (SD: 1.2); ADL 5.9 (SD: 0.5); IADL 7.8 (SD: 0.8, max score 9).

Conclusion
In this sample of PAWH maturity screening suggests healthier group than anticipated and low levels of depression. Borderline mean cognitive screen suggests need to monitor for emerging issues likely to impact quality of life. Examining social support in the context of PAWH and potential cognitive decline may identify those with increased future healthcare needs and poor outcomes. Gait speed and frailty measures are currently being analyzed and may identify additional functional needs.
CLINICAL EFFICACY OF A DIGITAL COGNITIVE ASSESSMENTS IN DETECTING COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENTS: A POOLED ANALYSIS
Authors: Huynh Duong , Patterson Mary , Huang Bin 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Dementia has become a public health concern worldwide with significant social and economic impacts. Early detection of dementia, which involves diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a possible prestage of dementia, is crucial for timely interventions, care planning, and reducing healthcare costs. To promote proactive screening, it is important to equip primary care providers with assessment tools that are not only validated and reliable but also easy-to-administer and seamlessly integrated into their routine workflows. BrainCheck’s cognitive assessment tool (BC-Assess), with its demonstrated high diagnostic efficacy, usability, and feasibility of implementation, offers a promising solution. This study aimed to re-evaluate the efficacy of BC-Assess in identifying MCI and dementia based on a pooled dataset. The dataset included BC-Assess data of 193 individuals (age mean=73.7; SD=11.2), comprising those with normal cognition (NC; N=48) and those diagnosed with MCI (N=53) or dementia (N=92), acquired from two previous studies and from BrainCheck’s clinical partners. Each individual’s cognitive status was determined based on results from provider clinical diagnoses (N=158; 82%) or from the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (N=35; 18%). Significant differences in BC-Assess overall scores were found between the three groups (p&lt;.001). ROC analysis shows that BC-Assess can achieve high sensitivity (&gt;=85%) and specificity (&gt;=81%) in distinguishing MCI and dementia patients from those with normal cognition, comparable with performance level obtained previously from a single data source. These results demonstrate the ability of BC-Assess to hold its diagnostic efficacy over combined data collected from different settings.
CLINICAL TRIALS USING MUSIC IN DIVERSE COMMUNITIES OF OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Rose Tara 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Music is being integrated into health care services and nonpharmacological treatment options as part of physical health and well-being programs for older adults. When health care professionals and older adult providers try to locate successful programs to initiate, they look to clinicaltrials.gov as a resource to find the most rigorous and robust programs implemented. In large US cities, such as Los Angeles, where there are multiple ethnic populations with specific cultural music interests, it is important to have knowledge of culturally specific interventions in order to create evidence-based programs for multiple community members. The purpose of this review is to analyze music programs and interventions for African American, Asian American, and Latino/Hispanic older adults to better understand emerging best practices. A search of all trials registered in the clinicaltrials.gov was conducted using key words describing these ethnic populations and also the word “music.” Of the 146 studies generated, 15 met the eligibility criteria, with all studies enrolling older adults along with other age groups. Studies were conducted across four regions of the US, 53% in Northeast, 20% South, 13% Midwest, and 13% West. Music interventions for specific medical conditions (20% dementia and 27% other diseases) and mental health/well-being (53%) were the primary foci in studies. Data on intervention types, demographics, and methodology will be presented. Results to date suggest that more research is needed on best practices in music interventions for specific cultural groups and that new approaches would benefit cities and communities, especially in areas with diverse multicultural populations.
COMPARING STROKE MORTALITY TRENDS IN RURAL AND URBAN AREAS DURING AND BEFORE THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Lin Vivian , DiVall Sasha , Cheng Mengyuan , Ferdows Nasim 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
COVID-19 has undeniably disrupted healthcare services, with many individuals advised to avoid hospital visits unless necessary. However, timely treatment following a stroke is critical to minimize damage or fatality, raising concerns about how these disruptions may have affected stroke outcomes. This study explores the association between COVID-19 and stroke mortality rates across different ruralities across a three-year period (2018-2020). Using data from the CDC WONDER database and County Health Rankings, we examined stroke mortality trends, adjusting for county-level characteristics. The study classified rurality using Rural-Urban Commuting Area codes from the Economic Research Service into three categories: urban, rural-adjacent to an urban area, and rural non-adjacent to an urban area, given the generally lower access to medical care in rural settings. Our analysis, which utilized data up to 2020—covering less than a full year of the COVID-19 pandemic—found no significant differences in stroke mortality rates across the different rurality levels. However, it is important to note that the limited data from the early stages of the pandemic may not fully capture the potential impact of COVID-19 on stroke mortality. As more recent data from 2021-2022 become available, we anticipate that a more comprehensive analysis could reveal different trends, particularly as the effects of prolonged lockdowns and healthcare disruptions become more evident. This research aims to provide a clearer understanding of stroke mortality trends during the pandemic, offering insights that may guide healthcare practices and policy decisions to ensure that all populations, especially those in rural areas, have access to necessary care.
CULTURAL AND PSYCHOMETRIC VALIDATION FOR COGNITIVE ASSESSMENT OF OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Bárbara Rita , Gonçalves Rui , Lopes Mario 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Introduction
Cognitive assessment is vital for the early detection and management of cognitive disorders in older adults. Instruments developed in one cultural context may not be applicable to other populations without proper adaptation. This study aims to culturally adapt the cognitive domain of the Older Americans Resources and Services (OARS) instrument for use with Angolan elderly, ensuring it accurately captures the cultural and specific needs of this group. Objective: The primary goal is to validate the cognitive domain of the OARS for its cultural relevance and clinical reliability in Angola. This involves modifying the instrument to better suit the Angolan cultural context.

Methods
The study included 127 Angolan older adults. An initial factor analysis identified items misaligned with the local cultural context. These items were revised and adapted. A follow-up factor analysis evaluated the coherence of the revised instrument. Reliability was measured using Cronbach’s alpha.

Results
The initial analysis revealed several problematic items, which were modified for improved cultural fit. The revised factor analysis demonstrated a more coherent structure, with Cronbach’s alpha rising to 0.82, indicating good internal consistency among the updated items.

Discussion
Culturally adapting the OARS was crucial for improving its sensitivity to Angolan older adults’ needs, leading to a more accurate and equitable cognitive assessment.

Conclusion
The adaptation and psychometric validation of the OARS have produced a more suitable tool for cognitive assessment in Angola, highlighting the importance of considering cultural factors in instrument development. Keywords: Cognitive assessment, cultural adaptation, elderly.
DELIRIUM AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN OLDER ADULTS WITH COVID-19
Authors: Park Esther , Petrovic Milenko , Azhar Gohar 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
SARS-COV-2 is often associated with cardiovascular diseases such as arrhythmias and congestive cardiac failure (CHF), and cardiovascular disease is itself linked with the development of delirium. In this retrospective study we explored the relationship between heart disease and acute delirium in 319 COVID-19 patients 65 and older, seen at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences from January 7, 2018 to January 5, 2021. We reveiwed the frequency of cardiac conditions (atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, tachycardia, bradycardia, CHF, CAD, other) in this cohort with emphasis on timing before and concurrent with COVID-19 delirium. We found a strong association of acute delirium during COVID-19 infection in patients with cardiac disease as compared to patients without cardiac disease (p&lt; 0.00001). 128/319 (40.1%) COVID-19 patients suffered from delirium during or after COVID-19, and 88 of these patients had cardiac disease. 121/319 (37.9%) COVID-19 patients had no other cardiac conditions excluding essential hypertension. The majority (83/121, 68.6%) of those with no cardiac conditions listed in EMR also had no delirium documented during or after infection. Patients with cardiac conditions had a risk ratio of 1.38 of developing delirium during or after COVID-19 infection compared to patients without COVID-19. In conclusion, having a preexisting cardiac condition increases the likelihood of delirium in older adults with COVID-19 infection. Improved treatment strategies that optimize cardiovascular care during COVID-19 will also benefit cognition and enhance outcomes in older adults. A better understanding of these complex interactions should improve treatment of delirium in older adults with SARS-COV-2.
DEVELOPMENT AND ASSESSMENT OF THE PERFORMANCE OF A LARGE LANGUAGE MODEL FOR ADMINISTERING THE SHORT BLESSED TEST
Authors: Jaman Rafeeul , Nessen Sarah , Adjei-Poku Michael , Byerley Joella , Sailors Olivia , Karlawish Jason , O’Brien Kyra , Friedman Ari 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Universal health system-based screening for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or impairment consistent with dementia can modify care and increase access to disease-modifying therapies and memory centers, potentially reducing disparities. Constraints on nurse and clinician time have hindered existing efforts. Large language models (LLMs) present a potential solution. However, they are subject to confabulation and poor arithmetic accuracy, and were not trained on data containing definitive assessments of cognitive impairment. We hypothesized that using an LLM to administer the Short Blessed Test (SBT) and calculating test scores from item scores would mitigate these errors. We conducted prompt engineering on OpenAI GPT4o to construct an interactive tool. A team member then simulated being patients with different levels of cognitive impairment across an orthogonal matrix spanning the 6 SBT item scores, answering each question to achieve the intended item score. We summed the LLM-reported item scores to the total score that should have been obtained based on the input answers. We evaluated 57 sets of item scores with total scores of 2-26. Of these, 54.7% had an LLM score equal to the true score. All errors except 2 were within 3 points of the true score. Using a cutoff of &gt;=5 points for mild cognitive impairment, specificity was 100.0%, and negative predictive value was 50%. LLMs may play a role in reducing nurse and clinician screening burden in hospital settings, where the benefit of being able to conduct screening at all outweighs the possibility of missed diagnoses, but requires human confirmation.
DOCUMENTING REPORTS OF SUSPECTED ABUSE AND NEGLECT: THE EVALUATION OF A STANDARDIZED PATIENT NOTE
Authors: Webster Amy , Webb Sara , Sperber Nina , Decosimo Kasey , Halaszynski Jaime , Koget Jennifer , Silva Jennifer , Makaroun Lena 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Elder abuse (EA) impacts 10% of older adults in the U.S. annually with devastating health consequences, yet few healthcare systems systematically document reports of EA in the electronic health record (EHR). We present acceptability and usability findings from the first of a two-phase Veterans Health Administration (VHA) quality improvement pilot of a standardized note template developed by the National Social Work Program for documenting reports of suspected abuse/neglect in the EHR. In spring 2024, we conducted a usability evaluation through semi-structured interviews with 22 staff from 3 sites including the following roles: 19 social workers, 1 nurse, 1 physical therapist, and 1 mental health case manager. Overall, participants found the note easy to access and use describing it as “really straightforward”, “simple”, and “self-explanatory.” Participants reported the standardized note made it easier to identify that a report was made and facilitated follow-up care for patients who needed it. Half of participants completed the note in ≤5 minutes. Staff in one location said that the template streamlined the reporting process, making it “quicker and easier.” Several staff suggested improving procedures to ensure patient privacy and safety when documenting. Modifications based on findings were incorporated to improve usability. Following the second phase of the pilot with 5 additional sites (ongoing), the refined note template will be disseminated for national use in VHA, creating opportunities for real-time monitoring of EA at a population level. Lessons learned from this initiative could inform other healthcare systems interested in systematizing clinical documentation for abuse/neglect reports.
DUAL SENSORY IMPAIRMENT AND PHYSICAL FUNCTION AMONG MEXICAN AMERICAN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Bendapudi Arati , Snih Soham Al 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The study objective was to examine the relationship between hearing impairment (HI) and vision impairment (VI) on physical function over 12-years of follow-up among Mexican Americans aged 75 years and older. Participants (N=662) were from the Hispanic Established Population for the Epidemiological Study of the Elderly who scored 7 or more on the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) at baseline. Measures included socio-demographics, medical conditions, pain, depressive symptoms, falls, cognitive function, disability, and handgrip strength. Dual Sensory Impairment (DSI) was defined as the presence of sensory and visual impairment. Physical function impairment (PFI) was defined as having a score of less than 7 on the SPPB. Participants were grouped into four groups: No HI - No VI (n=503), HI only (n=70), VI only (n=32), and VI-HI (n=17). Generalized Estimating Equation models estimated the odds ratio (OR) and 95% Confidence Interval (CI) of PFI as a function of DSI over time after controlling for all covariates. Participants with HI only, and those with DSI had greater odds (OR=1.64, 95% CI=1.17-2.31, p-value=0.0043 and OR=2.35, 95% CI=1.38-4.83, p-value=0.0209, respectively) of developing PFI over time compared to those without DSI after controlling for all covariates. No significant association was found between those with VI only and PFI. In conclusion, Mexican American older adults with DSI were at higher risk of developing PFI over time. These findings highlight the importance of culturally informed clinical practices that address DSI in an underserved population with language barriers and limited access to health care.
DYNAMIC STANDING BALANCE AND MOBILITY IMPROVES WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF EXERCISE PARTICIPATION IN OLDER VETERANS
Authors: Dondero Kathleen , Giffuni Jamie , Kelly Megan , Addison Odessa 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Older veterans are particularly vulnerable to declines in balance and mobility. Gerofit is a nationwide clinical exercise program aimed at improving physical function. However, it is unclear if Gerofit has an impact on balance, particularly in those that are already at high risk for falls. The Four-Square Step Test (FSST) is a valid and reliable measure of dynamic balance where completion times &gt;12 seconds indicates a high risk for falls. The FSST was assessed at baseline, 6-months, and 1-year in 140 older Veterans who participated in the Gerofit exercise program. This sample included 88 “low fall risk” veterans (FSST &lt; 12 seconds; age 71 ± 5.8 yrs; SPPB Score 11.08 ± 1.4; gait speed 1.2 ± 0.22 m/s) and 52 “high fall risk” veterans (FSST &gt; 12 seconds; age 74 ± 8.1 yrs; SPPB Score 8.65 ± 2.2; gait speed 0.95 ±0.24 m/s). On average, FSST times improved ~13% from baseline (13.31 ± 7.6 seconds) to 6-months (11.55 ± 7.1seconds; P&lt; 0.001) and was retained through 1 year of exercise participation (11.54 ± 7.1 seconds; P=1.0). Importantly, high fall risk veterans showed clinically meaningful improvements in FSST times from baseline (19.1 ± 1.4) to 6 months (15.2 ± 1.4; P=.001) in the program and maintained these improvements through 1-year (15.8 ± 1.4; P=1.0). Veterans, regardless of fall risk, can experience improvements in balance and mobility within 6 months of regular exercise participation and retain these improvements with continued exercise participation.
EARLY DETECTION: A COMPREHENSIVE COGNITIVE SCREENING TOOL FOR ADRD THROUGH INNOVATIVE MOBILE APP TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Smith Lenora , O’Brien Charles 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Currently, there are no curative treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease; it is imperative to detect cognitive decline early to provide lifestyle factors that may play a protective role in older individuals, delaying the progression of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Neurospective is a mobile application platform being designed to facilitate the early detection of cognitive decline, including MCI and pre-clinical Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). It will utilize a unique combination of engaging cognitive assessment games, diverse user data collection, and machine learning to establish a robust and accessible screening tool. The app is being built around cognitive assessments from a suite of mini-games. The activities are inspired by established screening tests, like 3MS, MoCA, and SLUMS, to assess language, problem-solving, reasoning, memory, and motor function. This innovative app will be easily accessible for screening MCI and assess outcomes based on an evolving machine learning algorithm. The continuously evolving models, based on user data, will lead to increasingly accurate predictions of cognitive health and potential ADRD risk. This app will initially establish a relative measure of cognitive health within the population, eventually progressing into a reliable screening tool for early detection of MCI. Neurospective presents a unique and promising approach to early detection of MCI through its accessible mobile app format, comprehensive data collection, and evolving machine learning models. This project has the potential to significantly improve our understanding of cognitive health and contribute to earlier intervention for individuals at risk of ADRD.