bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CLINICIAN INTERACTIONS WITH OLDER LGBT+ PATIENTS IN COLORADO: VISIBILITY, IDENTITY, AND EQUITABLE CARE
Authors: Valenti Korijna 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The unique needs of older lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT+) patients continue to merit attention. It is critical to fill the gap between clinician-patient communication, viewing patients as individuals with distinct support systems, and spouse/partner inclusivity. Guided by a queer gerontology framework, this study analyzed perspectives of clinicians across Colorado (n = 20) regarding their experiences interacting with LGBT+ patients 55+ with serious illness, including a) how health care professionals perceive their knowledge of and interactions with LGBTQ+ patients; (b) how these perspectives may inform patient care; and (c) how to best conceptualize communication between clinicians and LGBTQ+ patients. Inductive thematic analysis revealed three main themes: 1) visibility and treatment of LGBTQ+ patients, 2) asking about identity, and 3) acknowledging limitations around the current state of care for LGBTQ+ patients. Participants noted varying levels of comfort with and knowledge about LGBTQ+ patients and patients’ chosen care partners Participants addressed barriers around not asking about sexual orientation or gender identity, treating all patients “the same,” and the need for increased advocacy and proactive communication by health care professionals. Findings reveal the need for improved knowledge acquisition, training, and inclusivity for clinicians to fully address older LGBT+ patient needs. Several participants noted experiences around discrimination in the clinical environment and the need to “do better,” learn more, and engage more deeply with patients. Clinician understanding of patient needs, the use of correct language, and familiarity with patients’ chosen care partners may lead to improved health care experiences for LGBT+ patients.
THE TEMPORAL SEQUENCE OF FRAILTY, SOCIAL ISOLATION, AND LONELINESS IN OLDER ADULTS ACROSS 21 YEARS
Authors: Mehrabi Fereshteh , Pomeroy Mary Louise , Cudjoe Thomas , Jenkins Emerald , Dent Elsa , Hoogendijk Emiel 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This study examined the temporal patterns of social isolation, loneliness, and frailty among a national sample of older adults across 21 years (1995–2016). We applied random intercept cross-lagged panel models to seven waves of the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA). We included 2,302 Dutch older adults ages 55 and older (Mage= 72.6; SD = 8.6; 52.1% female). Frailty was measured using the Frailty Index. Loneliness was measured using the 11-item De Jong Gierveld loneliness scale. Social isolation was measured using a multi-domain 6-item scale. Levels of social isolation and loneliness were weakly correlated during any given wave as well as across waves. Each condition was highly stable from one time point (T) to the next. Cross-lagged effects showed that frailty in T2 to T5 significantly predicted social isolation in the following waves (T3 to T6). For example, higher levels of frailty at T4 predicted higher levels of social isolation at T5 (β = 0.23, SD = 0.05, p &lt; 0.001). Likewise, frailty in T2 to T6 significantly predicted loneliness in the following waves (T3 to T7). For example, higher levels of frailty at T5 predicted higher levels of loneliness at T6 (β = 0.33, SD = 0.06, p &lt; 0.001). The reverse sequence (i.e., social isolation or loneliness predicting future frailty) was less common and exhibited a weaker relationship. Frailty may have important consequences for adverse psychosocial outcomes, including social isolation and loneliness. Public health policies should prioritize interventions that bolster social connection among pre-frail and frail older adults.
PERIPHERAL BLOOD CELL MITOCHONDRIAL FUNCTIONS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Authors: Mahapatra Gargi , Bergstrom Jaclyn , Craft Suzanne , Molina Anthony 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) dementia associates with systemic mitochondrial bioenergetic decline. We previously showed blood cell mitochondrial bioenergetics recapitulates bioenergetic capacity of highly metabolically active organs like brain, liver, and skeletal muscles, and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) mitochondrial function relates to brain morphology. More recently, we examined PBMC and platelet bioenergetics in a cohort of older adults with dementia due to AD. We assessed mitochondrial function using complementary respirometric approaches in intact and permeabilized PBMCs and platelets from individuals with normal cognition (NC), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia due to probable AD (DEM). Cognitive abilities were assessed using Modified Preclinical Alzheimer’s Cognitive Composite (mPACC5) scores, and brain morphology using MRI. Our results indicate blood cells exhibit lower bioenergetic capacity associated with cognitive decline in MCI and DEM, with lowest capacities in DEM. Specifically, glucose-mediated respiration was significantly lower in DEM compared to NC. PBMC fatty-acid oxidation (FAO)-mediated respiration were progressively lower with MCI and DEM compared to NC, while platelet FAO-mediated respiration exhibited higher maximal respiration in MCI than NC and DEM. PBMC and platelet respiration positively correlated with mPACC5 scores and hippocampal volume, and negatively correlated with white matter hyperintensities. These findings indicate mitochondrial bioenergetic differences associated with cognitive abilities are systemic and blood-based bioenergetic profiling can be used as a minimally invasive approach for measuring mitochondrial alterations associated with dementia. Studies are underway to identify circulating factors underlying systemic bioenergetic decline and cellular mechanisms mediating mitochondrial dysfunction in PBMCs and platelets from older adults with cognitive impairment.
PROFESSIONALIZING GERONTOLOGY AND CREDENTIALING GERONTOLOGISTS
Authors: Schafer Donna 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
There are many reasons people want to work with older adults. However, there is no guarantee that these motivated people will enroll in a gerontology degree program. Many do not know about Gerontology; others are not confident they can find a job with a gerontology degree. Those who do graduate from gerontology degree programs may be frustrated in competing with graduates of other programs who are able to obtain licenses or with “graduates” of weekend workshops producing “gerontologists.” It is ironic that at a time when we need more people to work with older adults, gerontology degree programs often struggle to enroll students. Low enrollments threaten the survival of existing programs. Institutional perceptions about uncertain enrollments inhibit the development of new degree programs. We have not done a good job “marketing” our field either inside or outside academia. The National Association for Professional Gerontologists (NAPG) was founded in 2005 to address some of these problems. NAPG credentials the educational and practice experience of gerontology professionals using the AGHE Standards and Guidelines and the Gerontology Competencies for Undergraduate and Graduate Education. Thus far, NAPG has credentialed over 350 practicing gerontology professionals. We need to do more. NAPG proposes an effort to develop partnerships among like-minded organizations to promote the field and to attract funding to re-energize it. A coalition of partners needs to work with the employer community to convey the value of a gerontology education and ensure that graduates have the skills employers need.
ENHANCING THE AGING WORKFORCE: THE CASE FOR ACCREDITATION OF GERONTOLOGY PROGRAMS
Authors: Henke Maria 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
For over five decades, gerontology programs have been attempting to address the needs of aging populations by preparing professionals equipped with specific knowledge, skills, and competencies. Of paramount concern to any gerontology program is that their graduates are prepared to be valuable members of the workforce. This can be done by establishing cohesive standards within the field so that future employers recognize and value the qualifications of gerontology graduates. These standards can be established and improved upon by creating a dialogue with future employers to more fully understand their workforce needs as well as to clearly communicate the value graduates from accredited gerontology programs bring to their organizations. It is important that there is a core of consistency from program to program. This consistency ensures that regardless of the specific focus or emphasis of each program, employers will recognize the particular skill set a gerontologist brings to their organizations and businesses. The Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education (AGHE) is the educational arm of the Gerontological Society of America (GSA). AGHE has formulated a set of core competencies for gerontology programs. These competencies serve as the cornerstone of the accreditation process facilitated by Accreditation for Gerontology Education Council (AGEC), providing programs with a structured pathway towards recognition and validation. With the framework for accreditation established, it is imperative for programs to embark on this journey, ensuring alignment with the rigorous standards and expectations set forth by the field.
OLDER ADULTS WITHOUT CARE PARTNERS: A SCOPING REVIEW OF CURRENT EVIDENCE
Authors: Jones-Cobb Brittany , Lee Chaejeong 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Demographic changes in rates of living alone, divorce, migration, and having no living partner, spouse, or children are leaving more older adults without the typical “informal” care providers that are the backbone of caregiving in the U.S. These older adults without care partners face a precarious situation given our lack of a robust care structure outside of family/social network members, reductions in publicly funded care, rising costs of privately funded care, and a care workforce shortage. Using the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines and PRISMA-ScR protocol, we conducted a scoping review of nine databases to synthesize the current evidence regarding this population’s risks and vulnerabilities; adverse consequences; and any interventions that have been developed and tested specifically for this population. Three independent reviewers screened and extracting data, and the first author conducted descriptive and thematic analysis. Precarities facing older adults without care partners included risk for social isolation, impaired self-care, delays and exclusions from medical treatment, and worse medication adherence. Negative outcomes included increased likelihood of hospital and nursing home admission, and death by suicide. No rigorously studied interventions are currently published that specifically target this population. However, some evidence suggested positive benefits from enhancing home-based environmental, formal care, and volunteer supports. Very few of the included articles in this review set out to specifically study older adults without care partners. This highlights our lack of understanding of their distinctive risks and outcomes, and the vital research remaining to develop and test interventions that effectively address this growing population’s unique needs.
THE USE OF VIRTUAL VOLUNTEERISM WITHIN THE AMERICORPS SENIORS RSVP PROGRAM: IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE
Authors: Crittenden Jennifer , Tarbox Nathan , Coleman Rachel , Campbell Leah , Thorne Adrienna , Chapman Chelsea 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic spurred the opportunity, and in some cases the imperative, to develop virtual volunteer (VV) options for older adults. The AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP program, one of the largest networks of older volunteers in the U.S., engages adults 55+ in a variety of local volunteer service opportunities. RSVP program directors were surveyed in 2023 (N = 138) to explore the use of VV, challenges associated with VV, and the opportunities for expansion of VV strategies with older adult volunteers. The most frequently cited VV assignments used by programs included: Community health education (53.5%, n = 23), financial services such as tax preparation and financial education (50%, n = 21), and companionship/friendly visiting (48.9%, n = 22). Common challenges cited by programs included a desire to return to in-person activities by older volunteers and beneficiaries, a lack of comfort with technology, lack of internet connection, and lack of funding resources to develop VV assignments. Statistical testing confirmed that the use of virtual strategies is not evenly distributed across geographical services areas with current (44.7%, n = 21) and past VV programs (44.4%, n = 8) more likely to serve metropolitan areas than rural or suburban service areas (X2 (2, N = 138) = 10.37, p &lt;.01). Despite mixed levels of satisfaction with VV, approximately one in three programs (31.7%, n = 20) projected an expansion of VV with older volunteers into the future. Additional findings and associated programmatic considerations will also be discussed.
READY, SET, VR!: VOLUNTEERS’ PERCEPTIONS USING VIRTUAL REALITY WITH PLWD IN COMMUNITY-BASED RESPITE
Authors: Agyemang Lillian , Milnamow Mary , Dauenhauer Jason , Bakk Louanne 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
People living with dementia (PLwD) and their caregivers prefer to “age in place” within the community. Community-based respite centers often have programming that enables caregivers to drop off their care receiver for a few hours while trained volunteers provide engagement. Few, if any, studies have explored Virtual Reality (VR) programming in community-based drop-in respite programs for PLwD. Within this exploratory study, a focus group with 8 volunteers aged 65+ was conducted to understand their experiences delivering VR in a drop-in respite center serving PLwD. Qualitative analysis revealed four primary themes: 1) Motivation, 2) Positive impact of VR, 3) VR Programming, and 4) Enhancing VR delivery. Volunteers shared a strong interest in learning new technology, and their motivation to use VR in respite center programming increased after training. Volunteers observed the positive impact of VR on client engagement and social connections and shared practical tips for improving VR delivery. Results provide evidence that VR can be successfully implemented in a community-based drop-in respite center for PLwD. Structural and individual-level factors may contribute to successful VR implementation, such as programs having technical and financial support from a larger social service agency, and volunteers’ motivation to receiving VR training. The level of enthusiasm demonstrated by volunteers in learning VR contradicts a persistent ageist myth regarding older adults and technology. In conclusion, VR is a novel approach for volunteers and clients to have meaningful social experiences within drop-in respite centers.
HISTORICAL NARRATIVES, CONTEMPORARY PORTRAYALS, AND STRATEGIES TO REFRAME AGING
Authors: Ng Reuben 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Ageism is the discrimination of older adults based on their age, and the negative portrayals of older adults as derived from age-based stereotypes centered on illness, irrelevance, and incompetence. The insidious consequences of ageism to health prompted 194 member countries to collectively work through the World Health Organization on a global campaign to combat ageism. This talk showcases innovative methods in analyzing the historical narratives of aging over 200 years, contemporary media portrayals of older adults, and strategies to reframe aging.
FORWARD WITH FORTITUDE: THE VIRGINIA TECH CENTER FOR GERONTOLOGY
Authors: Shealy Carlisle , Teaster Pamela 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Center for Gerontology at Virginia Tech (VTCfG) celebrated its 45th year of existence and annual celebration of gerontology. The VTCfG offers two graduate certificates—the Graduate Certificate in Gerontology (for seated students) and the Certificate for Leadership in an Aging Society (for online students). The VTCfG has five Core Faculty Gerontologists, 95 Faculty Affiliates, one International Faculty Affiliate, 12 Center Associates, 140 Graduate Certificate Recipients, and over 10 graduate students pursuing the Graduate Certificate in Gerontology at any one time. The VTCfG has a Futures Board of 18 members from various entities and organizations in the state and nationally and participates in approximately 20 funded research projects at one time. Drs. Shealy and Teaster will provide a history of the VTCfG, challenges faced through the years, and opportunities and directions for the next 50 years.
IMPACT OF GERIATRIC SCHOLARS PROGRAM PSYCHOLOGY TRACK ACTIVITIES ON VA PSYCHOLOGISTS’ CLINICAL PRACTICE
Authors: Gould Christine , Gregg Jeffrey , Rodriguez Rachel 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The significant workforce shortage for geriatric mental health providers is pronounced within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) where more than half of Veterans receiving care are over the age of 65 years. During the past 10 years, the Geriatric Scholars Program-Psychology Track (GSP-P) has developed and delivered a multi-component geropsychology training curriculum for VA psychologists serving older Veterans. Quantitative evaluation findings have demonstrated significant improvements in self-reported geropsychology knowledge and skills. However, detecting changes in clinical practice proves to be more challenging as VA psychologists’ practice includes components that are difficult to quantify (e.g., consultation, environmental interventions, facilitating family and team communication). To characterize GSP-P’s impact on clinical practice, we used a rapid qualitative analysis approach to examine open-ended responses about how clinical practice has changed on a survey of GSP-P alumni (N = 40 respondents, 27% response rate). Most (75%) respondents endorsed that GSP-P activities had an impact specifically on their clinical practice. Scholars noted improved conceptualization of patients’ presenting concerns. They described improved consideration of multiple factors including sensory changes, health literacy, medical health, and family systems. Increased use in standardized assessment measures and assessment of other factors (e.g., medications affecting cognition) emerged as well. Scholars described expanding intervention skills such as applying evidence-based psychotherapies with older adults and involving family members in therapy. These qualitative findings suggest that participation in the GSP-P activities has led to improvements in the quality of care provided to older Veterans with complex mental health, neurocognitive, medical, and functional needs.
MULTIDIMENSIONAL SLEEP HEALTH IN CARDIOMETABOLIC AND COGNITIVE AGING
Authors: Buxton Orfeu 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Multi-dimensional sleep health perspectives provide a holistic picture of the various independent and interacting facets of sleep health essential for health and wellbeing. This is key because characterizing sleep extends beyond simple measures such as the amount of time spent asleep and encompasses broad yet interrelated concepts. Taking a life course perspective, this presentation will provide theoretical background and empirical evidence for a 6-component multi-dimensional sleep health model using objective (wrist actigraphy) measures. This will, specifically, be examined in two large cohort studies of well-phenotyped participants. First, using data from the Work, Family and Health Study, evidence will be presented for the relationship of work-related stress, sleep health, and biomarker-based cardiometabolic risk in mid-life and older adults. Second, using data from the Einstein Aging Study, empirical evidence will be presented for the presence of 6-facet multi-dimensional sleep health construct using factor analysis, and its relationship with cognition and mild cognitive impairment. A more comprehensive approach incorporating sleep disorders into a multi-dimensional sleep health framework will also be discussed.
INTERPRETING ASSOCIATIONS OF SLEEP/CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS WITH COGNITIVE OUTCOMES: CHALLENGES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS
Authors: Stone Katie 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
We and others have shown that a variety of sleep characteristics, both objective and subjective, predict cognitive decline and incident dementia. For example, degree of sleep fragmentation, circadian rest-activity rhythms reflecting timing and regularity of sleep, and sleep duration have all been identified as potential risk factors for cognitive decline and incident dementia in older adults. In addition, sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea and insomnia are potential risk factors. However, several of these sleep exposures are substantially correlated, whereas others may contribute to risk of dementia via very distinct mechanisms. A more comprehensive assessment of sleep health is critical to determine which factors are most strongly linked to cognitive outcomes. Furthermore, little is known of potential risk stratification based on sex/gender and other factors. This information is critical to inform potential intervention approaches. In this presentation, a brief synthesis of the epidemiology and other evidence linking sleep and cognitive outcomes will be provided. Future directions will then be discussed, including the need for novel methods to analyze multidimensional sleep health data, exploration of potential mechanisms, larger studies to facilitate risk stratification, and ultimately, implementation of randomized trials to test whether interventions targeting specific sleep disorders and characteristics can effectively slow cognitive decline and prevent onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. We will illustrate potential intervention approaches by describing a newly implemented randomized trial, the ESSENTIAL trial (#NCT05988385), which aims to determine effects of treatment for obstructive sleep apnea on biomarkers of Alzheimer’s Disease.
A CONVERSATION ON TRANSLATION AND ADAPTATION OF EVIDENCE-BASED PROGRAMS FOR CAREGIVERS
Authors: Eisenstein Amy , Hepburn Kenneth 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
There are currently a plethora of Evidence-Based programs designed to support caregivers. However, while caregivers represent a highly diverse population, cultural and linguistic characteristics and preferences are not always considered in the development of these programs. This symposium will bring together four research projects exploring lessons learned in their work around supporting culturally and ethnically diverse caregivers. Presenters will discuss specifics around when and why adaptations or new programs are needed and how to apply rigorous methods. The first paper will present lessons learned from the development and evaluation of a culturally tailored anxiety intervention for Latinx caregivers of older adults with cancer. The second paper will explore work on the translation and testing of an online program for Latinx family members who provide care for older people with dementia. Next we will hear about lessons learned from culturally adapting and tailoring an existing psychoeducation program for Black caregivers of persons with dementia. Finally, we will wrap up with a session describing a scoping review to identify common core components of family-centered interventions that could serve as a foundation for interventions that can be designed to support caregivers of all cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The session will be pulled together with a discussion on how we can take these lessons learned to continue to build programs in support of a culturally and ethnically rich population of caregivers, and will highlight gaps and further opportunities for research in the field.