bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
VOLUNTEERING OF FORMER DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS: A PILOT INTERVENTION STUDY IN THE CHINESE AMERICAN COMMUNITY
Authors: Liu Jinyu , Lou Yifan , Cheung Ethan Siu Leung 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
To promote social engagement of elders of color and mental health of caregivers, we developed a three-month peer mentoring program (PMP) to train and supervise older Chinese Americans who used to be family caregivers of people with dementia (former caregivers) to provide weekly one-on-one mentoring to current caregivers in the same ethnic community. This pilot study aims to test the feasibility and preliminary effect of the PMP. A pilot randomized control trial was conducted among 38 current caregivers and 8 former caregivers in New York City. The current caregivers were randomly assigned to the PMP and control groups. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected at baseline, 3-month, and 9-month from former and current caregivers. T-test and difference-in-difference analyses were used to analyze quantitative data. A thematic analysis was conducted to understand former caregivers’ volunteering experience. The feasibility of the intervention was high, as indicated by an acceptable retention rate, fidelity, and positive feedback from former caregivers. Compared with the control group, the current caregivers in the PMP group had greater reductions in scores for loneliness, caregiver burden and depressive symptoms. Though former caregivers did not report significant changed depressive symptoms and loneliness after participating in the PMP due to their minimal symptoms at baseline, they highlighted that the intervention enhanced their sense of purpose, fulfillment, growth, and self-efficacy in narrative responses. The results indicated the feasibility and efficacy of empowering existing human resources of former caregivers in the same ethnic community to improve the mental health of Chinese caregivers.
MARITAL STATUS DIFFERENCES IN SOCIAL ISOLATION IN LATER LIFE
Authors: Li Lydia , McLaughlin Sara 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Social isolation, characterized by infrequent social contact, is associated with morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Using 9 waves of data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) that has conducted annual interviews with a probability sample of Medicare beneficiaries since 2011, this study examines how social isolation differs by marital status and whether the association between marital status and social isolation varies by gender. The sample includes 7,077 respondents aged 65+. We examine 4 categories of marital status (coupled, widowed, divorced, and never married.) Social isolation is assessed by an established index that uses four domains (living arrangements, close networks, religious service attendance, and participation in other activities) to determine social isolation (yes and no). Covariates include age, gender, race, education, community/facility residence, and time. Multilevel logistic regression is conducted. Results show that the risk of social isolation, from low to high, is coupled, widowed, divorced, and never married. The difference between all pairs, except divorced and unmarried, is statistically significant. The interaction effects of marital status and gender on social isolation are statistically significant [F (3, 54) = 3.43, p=.02]. Specifically, the probability of social isolation for coupled, widowed, divorced, and never married is.19,.35,.49, and.52 in men and.09,.25,.29, and.32 in women. The findings imply that divorced and never-married men should be prioritized for social isolation reduction interventions.
INTERGENERATIONAL REMINISCENCE ENGAGEMENT TO IMPROVE THE WELL-BEING OF OLDER ADULTS WITH COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
Authors: Xu Ling , Fields Noelle , Daniel Kathryn , Cipher Daisha , Troutman Brooke 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Reminiscence and/or digital storytelling (DST) have been recognized as potentially effective intervention strategies for enhancing the well-being of older adults. When combined with an intergenerational engagement, they may also offer significant social and mental health benefits for this population. This study reported the efficacy of an intergenerational reminiscence engagement between trained young adult volunteers and community dwelling older adults living with cognitive impairment. A randomized control trial was used to assess the effects of the intervention. Participants of young and older adults were randomly paired and assigned to Reminiscence (n = 54) or sham (Social Wellness, n = 49) group. Data were collected at baseline, mid- intervention, at the end of the intervention. Linear mixed models (LMM) were performed to compare the Social Wellness group with the Reminiscence group on levels of loneliness, quality of life, affect, and resilience among the older adult participants. Results from LMM revealed no significant effects for group or time on loneliness, negative affect, and resilience. However, the groups significantly differed on their changes over time in quality of life (t(101) = -3.06, p =.003). Qualitative interviews with selected dyads showed that weekly intergenerational engagements with young adults decreased the feeling of loneliness among older adults. Results suggest that weekly intergenerational engagements with young adults benefit older adults with quality of life and loneliness. Implications for research and programs on reminiscence and DST in improving the well-being of older adults are discussed.
MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH CONDITIONS LIMITING ACTIVITIES IN A NATIONAL SAMPLE OF OLDER LGBT ADULTS
Authors: Meyer Ilan , Bouton Lauren , Lauderdale Diane 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
AIMS: Research suggests that the proportion of LGBT older adults experiencing disabilities and limitations in activities may be high compared with cisgender straight older adults, but we know little about these limitations. We aimed to understand the type and reasons for limitations in LGBT older adults. METHODS: Using a national probability sample of 210 LGBT adults 45 years and older we conducted in-person or zoom interviews and asked respondents if they were “limited in activities because of physical, mental, or emotional problems?” We followed with an open-ended question about the reason for endorsing having limitations. RESULTS: 36% of respondents reported 1 or more limitations. We categorized these limitations as related to mental health (17%), mobility (72%), pulmonary conditions (7%), sensory/cognition (8%), or cardiovascular including diabetes and obesity (8%). Overall limitations were more prevalent among respondents 65 years or older vs. 45-64 years old (47% vs. 30%), women vs. men (48% vs. 28%), White vs. POC (38% vs. 31%), bisexual and other sexual identities vs. LG (50% vs. 31%), and people with incomes below $49K vs. $50k or higher (48% vs. 32%). Reporting a chronic disease diagnosis (e.g., asthma, hypertension) vs. none was not associated with prevalence of limitations (37% vs. 36%) but self-rated poor/fair health was (58% vs. 31%). In age-adjusted analyses, being a woman, identifying as other than LG, lower income, and reporting poor/fair health were all associated with having limitations (RRR = 2.7, 3.3, 2.1, and 3.5, respectively). We will discuss predictors of observed high prevalence of limitations.
MESSAGE FRAMING AND INTENTION TO USE WEARABLE ROBOTS AMONG OLDER ADULTS: A PARALLEL AND MODERATED MEDIATION ANALYSIS
Authors: Cheng Clio Yuen Man , Lou Vivian Weiqun 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Little is known about the intention to use wearable robots among older adults, an emerging assistive technology to compensate for age-related functional decline. Informed by the prospect theory and senior technology acceptance model, we examined the effect of persuasive health messages in enhancing technology acceptance of wearable robots among older adults. A 2 (message framing: gain versus loss) x 2 (temporal framing: distal versus proximal) randomized experiment was conducted with 176 older adults aged 50 to 74 in Hong Kong. Non-parametric bootstrapping analyses were used to test the mediation model of attitudinal beliefs, performance, and perceived health benefits as parallel mediators of the relationship between message framing and behavioral intention to use wearable robots. Additionally, a moderated mediation model where the indirect effects of temporal framing are explored on perceived benefits in the mediation model. The results showed that gain-framed messages enhanced behavioral intention, through increased perceived health benefits (IE = -.242, 95% CI: LL = -.435 to UL = -.085, p &lt;.01). Findings also provided evidence on the moderating role of temporal framing. Specifically, we observed that, for participants who were exposed to distally/gain-framed conditions, the IE is statistically significant (IE = -.301, 95% CI: LL = -.601 to UL = -.050, p =.032). For participants who were exposed to proximally/gain-framed conditions, the IE is higher and statistically significant (IE = -.432, 95% CI: LL = -.786 to UL = -.157, p =.007). This study suggests using proximally/gained-framed messages to increase wearable robots’ acceptance is promising.
INTERNET UTILIZATION AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT
Authors: Mumby Rachel , Clarke Philippa , Zhou Yunshu , Rein David , Ehrlich Joshua 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Internet is increasingly used by older adults for communication, socialization, household tasks, and health information/care. Although the internet is most often accessed by visual means, little is known about whether vision impairment is associated with internet use in older adults. To address this question, we used nationally representative data from round 12 (collected in 2022) of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), which included measures of visual function (distance visual acuity, near visual acuity, contrast sensitivity) and a series of questions about computer and internet use among US adults aged 65 and older. Data were analyzed using survey weighted multivariable logistic models adjusted for socioeconomic, demographic, and health-related covariates. There were 5,220 participants included (weighted: 45.6% male, 79.9% non-Hispanic White). Among those with any type of vision impairment, there were significantly lower odds of internet use (OR=0.59, 95% CI 0.47-0.73), email and texting (OR=0.52, 95% CI 0.40-0.68), online household activities (e.g., banking, grocery shopping; OR=0.69, 95% CI 0.57-0.84), online social networking (OR=0.64), 95% CI 0.52-0.80), and online health activities (e.g., prescription refills, telehealth; OR=0.64, 95% CI 0.50-0.82) compared to those without any vision impairment. Most of these associations were driven by near vision impairment. Although internet use has increased among older adults overall, there is a gap in utilization between older adults based on vision impairment status. Findings suggest a need for interventions to make the internet more accessible to older adults with impaired vision.
FEASIBILITY AND ACCEPTABILITY OF IMPLEMENTING AN AI-ENABLED SERVICE ROBOT IN LONG-TERM CARE
Authors: Hung Lillian , Ren Haopu (Lily) , Wong Karen Lok Yi , Davies Katharine , Kinugawa Arisa 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In long-term care (LTC), staff members are responsible for the complex needs of people with disabilities. This task can be enhanced by integrating service robots equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI). These robots offer personalized service for residents and empower the staff with efficient support. Despite growing interest, the implementation of service robots in LTC remains under-investigated. This study examines the feasibility and acceptability of implementing a service robot, named Aether, in a Canadian LTC home, guided by the underpinnings of Collaborative Action Research. We included interdisciplinary staff in pre- and post-intervention focus groups and conducted conversational interviews with residents, staff members, and managers. Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) informed our implementation, data collection and analysis. We identified key facilitators (staff engagement and training) and barriers (environmental dynamics and resource limitations). Our results underscore the imperative of structural support at micro-, meso- and macro-levels for staff in LTC to implement technology effectively. This study contributes valuable insights into the future development and deployment of AI-enabled service robots in LTC.
THE ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN THE SOCIAL NETWORK, THE CARE NETWORK, AND THE WELL-BEING OF OLDER ADULTS IN THE NETHERLANDS
Authors: Van Groenou Marjolein Broese , Keating Norah 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The increased demand for long-term care (LTC) and the drastic reforms of the LTC systems in western societies create uncertainty among families. It raises the question of whether and how families can provide appropriate LTC for their older relatives and maintain the wellbeing of the care recipient (CR). One solution is for core family members (partners and children) to organize care together with other informal and formal caregivers as much as possible in large and diverse care networks. Well functioning care networks could then possibly contribute to the wellbeing of the CR. The first contribution of this symposium focuses on the informal care potential of the older care recipient and investigates which characteristics of the social network are associated with a care network with many informal helpers. The second paper examines how different types of (informal) care networks contribute to CR’s psychological well-being, and to what extent loneliness, perceived control and care sufficiency play a role in this. The third paper links the theoretical models of both papers and investigates whether and how the associations between the social network, the care network and wellbeing vary in different societal and LTC contexts. All contributions use the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA), a long-term study into the functioning and care use of older people in the Netherlands. Data are used from ten three-yearly waves between 1992 and 2022. The discussion focuses on which directions the studies provide for improving long-term care for the older care recipients and their informal caregivers.
THE ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN SOCIAL NETWORKS, CARE NETWORKS, AND WELL-BEING COMPARED IN DIFFERENT TIME PERIODS
Authors: Van Groenou Marjolein Broese , Klokgieters Silvia , Abbing Jens , Swinkels Joukje 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Objectives A well-functioning LTC network is important for the psychological well-being of older CRs. Yet, the use of formal and informal care depends on the allocation of LTC which may vary over historic time. This raises the question whether the links between social networks, care networks and psychological wellbeing differ between various LTC policy contexts in the Netherlands. Methods Data are from 65-plus in four waves of the LASA study that are ten years apart: 1992 (N=1794), 2002 (N=1284), 2012 (N=1183), 2022 (1011). Five care network types were considered (no care, partner care, informal, formal and privately paid care). Per wave regression analyses are used to analyze the associations between social networks, care networks and depressive symptoms, and effects are compared across waves using multigroup analysis. Results Preliminary results show that the prevalence of care network types differ over time, with a decrease in partner and informal care types and stability in formal and privately paid care types. Many of the effects appeared stable over time: in all waves social network composition contributed to informal care use; and partner care reduced depressive symptoms where formal care increased this. Care network types that fostered relatedness and sufficient care were important for wellbeing in all waves. Discussion Although the four waves represent varying LTC contexts, the findings support the robustness of the associations between social networks, care networks and wellbeing. Moreover, those who lack a partner and a social network risk dependency on formal care resulting in lower wellbeing in all times.
THE ROLE OF SOCIAL NETWORK CHARACTERISTICS IN LONG-TERM CARE NETWORKS AMONG OLDER ADULTS IN THE NETHERLANDS
Authors: Abbing Jens , Swinkels Joukje , Van Groenou Marjolein Broese 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Objectives The increasing demand for long-term care (LTC) among western societies calls for a better understanding of how older adults build LTC networks consisting of informal and formal caregivers. Having supportive relationships is generally associated with receiving informal care, yet how specific characteristics of individuals’ social networks relate to LTC networks is not fully understood. Therefore, the present study investigated how the size, composition, and relationship quality of individuals’ social network influences what type of LTC network they have. Methods Data was used from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam that measured LTC use and social network characteristics of older adults (average age=70.88) in three-year intervals from 1992 to 2022. The sample contained 18,252 complete observations from 4,878 participants. Results Using multilevel latent class analysis, six LTC network types characterized by the main caregiver (co-residents, children, relatives, non-kin, publicly paid care and privately paid care) were identified. Cluster-robust multinomial logistic regression analyses revealed that social network size, composition and relationship quality all were associated with membership in the various informal care network types. In particular having a partner, and children and relatives living in proximity and/or with strong bonds contributed to an informal LTC network. Discussion Network composition was most important while the impact of relationship quality was relatively small. This suggests that older adults may refrain from using the full potential of their social network to build informal care networks, possibly because they prefer not to involve relatives or non-kin into caregiving or prefer formal or privately paid care.
EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT USE AND HEALTH CARE EXPENDITURES AMONG OLDER ADULTS AT END-OF-LIFE
Authors: Gettel Cameron , Kitchen Courtney , Rothenberg Craig , Song Yuxiao , Venkatesh Arjun , Hastings Susan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Emergency department (ED) visits at end-of-life (EOL) may cause financial strain to older adults and serve as a marker of inadequate access to community services and health care. We sought to examine EOL ED use, total health care spending, and out-of-pocket (OOP) spending among Medicare beneficiaries. Using data from the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey, we conducted a pooled cross-sectional analysis including Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older with a date of death between July 1, 2015 and December 31, 2021. Our primary outcomes were ED visits, total healthcare spending, and OOP healthcare spending in the 7, 30, 90, and 180 days preceding death. We compared total and OOP healthcare costs for those with at least 1 ED visit prior to death vs. without any ED visits within each timeframe and estimated a series of zero-inflated negative binomial regression models to identify associations between key beneficiary characteristics and the primary outcomes. Among 3,812 older adult decedents, 610 (16%), 1,207 (31.7%), 1,582 (41.5%), and 1,787 (46.9%) Medicare beneficiaries, respectively, had ED visits in the final 7, 30, 90, and 180 days of life. For Medicare beneficiaries with at least one ED visit in the final 30 days of life, the median total and OOP costs were respectively $12,366 and $160, compared respectively to $160 and $0 for those without any ED visits (P &lt;0.001 for both comparisons). These estimates of ED use and costs during the terminal phase of life highlight the importance of appropriate and timely EOL care.
EXPECTATION AND ENGAGEMENT IMPACT COGNITIVE TRAINING BENEFITS IN MID-TO-LATE LIFE
Authors: Curtis Ashley , Costa Amy , Musich Madison , Schmiedeler Anthony , Eberhardt Kenda , McCrae Christina 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Lack of pharmacological agents for cognition has prompted research on behavioral treatments such as cognitive training (CT). Evidence regarding CT benefit is mixed. In accordance with the biopsychosocial model, we examined whether individual characteristics such as expectation for improvement and engagement levels impact CT benefits in middle-aged/older adults. In Study 1, older adults with insomnia (N=24) completed 6-week CT (Nintendo DS-Big Brain Academy; 60 mins/day, 3x/week) and waitlist control (WLC) in a cross-over design. At baseline and post-CT/post-WLC, participants completed NIH toolbox-cognitive tasks. In Study 2, middle-aged adults with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD; N=17) completed 8-week CT (Cognifit; 45 mins 3x/week). At baseline/post-CT, participants completed State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Cognitive Failures Questionnaire, and computerized cognitive tasks. At mid-point, participants evaluated expectations of cognitive/anxiety improvement (0:none-100:extreme improvement). At post-treatment for both studies, participants completed the Game Engagement Questionnaire. Bivariate correlations evaluated associations between game engagement and improvement expectations on post-training proportional changes in cognitive (Study 1&2) and anxiety (Study 2) outcomes. In Study 1, greater perceived competence was associated with greater CT-related inhibition improvement (r=-.57, p=.008). In Study 2, greater expected level of cognitive improvement (r=-.58, p=.047) and sensory game engagement (r=-.730, p=.002) were associated with less CT-related working memory improvement. Greater CT perceived skill/competence was associated with more anxiety reduction (r=.59, p=.02). A biopsychosocial approach to intervention evaluation may be useful in CT trials in aging adults with insomnia and GAD. Psychological user characteristics such as expectation for improvement and perceived competence, as well as biological sensory engagement impact CT benefits.
IMPROVING WELL-BEING IN OLDER ADULTS: USING AN ITERATIVE PROCESS TO OPTIMIZE THE DESIGN OF A GROUP INTERVENTION
Authors: Cassidy-Eagle Erin , Gould Christine , Lin Feng Vankee , Makowski Maryam , Gallagher-Thompson Dolores 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Psychological health and well-being definitions are moving beyond the goal of simply decreasing symptoms and disorder rates and moving towards a life enhancing and positive focus. Our multi-modal group program targets a broad range of well-being dimensions including cognitive, behavioral, emotional, social, and physical health parameters. The changes to design and implementation made to the intervention as part of an iterative process will be discussed. Participants were older adults (65+), absent a dementia diagnosis, referred from providers across the healthcare system. The intervention focuses on a collection of topics that support optimal psychological wellness and promote health and resilience (i.e. digital tools and mobile apps, value-based behavioral activation to improve your mood, eating for a healthy brain, introduction to mindfulness, improving your sleep and strategies for managing anxiety) that are held weekly, with modules ranging in duration from 2-4 weeks, over a 7-month period. The results across 2 groups (N=40), both process and outcome, will be presented. Positive psychiatry interventions have great potential to support and strengthen the psychological well-being of older adults who are faced with the myriad of challenges that come with increasing age. Considering the geriatric mental health provider shortages and the overwhelmed healthcare system, this program has improved access to psychiatric care. Program goals also include aims of boosting positive emotions, life satisfaction, purpose and meaning, along with decreasing loneliness, depression, and anxiety.