Later Years Of Life Research Articles

‘HepGenç’: A youth festival to promote health and well-being via films, photography, music, and arts

Abstract Background The ‘Lifelong Health’ framework of WHO emphasizes that investing in health during young ages fosters better health and higher quality of life in later years. When working with and for youth, using innovative and participatory approaches have become more important for effective health communication, especially in an era of increased environmental stimuli, digitalization, and decreased attention span for many young people, who are less attracted with traditional/ didactic health education and communication methods. Objectives This paper aims to share practical experiences of a multidisciplinary team of professionals with backgrounds in public health, psychiatry, communication, music, and arts, in collaboration with young people to organize a series of youth health festivals in different cities of Turkiye to promote youth health literacy and access to health care, with a special focus on mental health and well-being. Results HepGenc (ForeverYoung) Festivals are organized by academics and youth from different universities in Turkiye, in collaboration with NGOs and local municipalities of cities, where the events take place. These events encourage young people to think about health and well-being, including social and environmental determinants of health via short films, photography, music, and arts. The series of festivals use creative workshops to introduce different health and well-being topics to youth, who may not always find these issues ‘attractive.’ Social and mental health, including resilience and ability to adapt are also addressed, which help young participants to build a holistic and comprehensive look on health and its determinants. Conclusions Organizing health-focused festivals using films, photography, music, and arts encourages young people to be creative and productive, while raising their awareness on healthy lifestyles and healthy cities, and how they can be agents of positive change. Key messages • Using films, music, and arts help with greater engagement of young people and facilitates their learning, as well as their creativity and productivity. • Collaboration of health, communication, and arts professionals strengthens health communication/ education programs, with additional beneficial outcomes for all disciplines including shared learning.

Detection and Classification of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia using CNN

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is a very important cancer in childhood but quite prominent in later years of life for the genetic defects in lymphoid progenitors, which are hallmarks of the disease. In children, ALL mostly affects those aged between 2 and 6 years old and, against the background of contemporary biology knowledge and treatment approaches, is associated with more than 80% cure rates. However, approximately 20% of children with ALL relapse; therefore, there is a huge need for better risk identification and treatment optimization. In adults, ALL mainly affects B-cell precursors and is treated with chemotherapy and, in some cases, stem cell transplantation. An accurate and early diagnosis of ALL is of key importance but difficult to realize due to morphological similarities between normal cells and leukemic cells. This study, therefore, proposes a CNN model to improve diagnostic accuracy. Furthermore, it exploits the capabilities of CNN in feature extraction with Adamax Optimizer and the Categorical Cross-Entropy Loss Function to deal with imbalances and noise in the dataset. RESNET50-CNN has achieved 98.63% accuracy in classification and is hence a very strong tool in ALL detection and classification.

Evaluation of digit ratio (2D:4D) in breast cancer patients

Breast cancer is a hormone-dependent cancer. Hormonal exposure begins in the intrauterine period and continues in later years of life. 2D:4D ratio is accepted as an indicator of this exposure. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a difference in 2D:4D ratio between pathological subgroups of breast cancer and healthy control group. In this study, 204 participants, 154 breast cancer patients and 50 healthy control volunteers with similar age distribution, were included. Both hands of all participants were scanned using a digital scanner. The second and fourth finger lengths were measured using a digital measuring ruler with an accuracy of 0.05 mm. The 2D:4D ratio was calculated as the length of the second finger divided by the length of the fourth finger. A total of 204 patients (55 triple negative, 52 luminal B, 33 luminal A, 14 HER2-overexpessing and 50 healthy control volunteers) were subjected to finger scanning. There was no statistically significant difference in mean age between the groups. The right hand 2D:4D ratio was significantly lower in the Luminal A group compared to the other groups (p < 0.048). Although prenatal hormonal exposure is accepted as a risk factor for breast cancer, no study has evaluated patients in pathological subgroups. The 2D:4D ratio may be associated with breast cancer especially in the luminal A group in which hormone receptors are strongly positive and which has a better prognosis compared to the other groups.

Suicidal thoughts and behaviors among gender and sexual minorities: Adults ages 18-24 show highest rates of past month suicidal thoughts.

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) people are at increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors relative to their cisgender heterosexual peers. However, most research in this area has focused on youth, limiting our understanding of suicide risk among SGM adults. To address this gap in the literature, the present study examined suicidal thoughts and behaviors among SGM adults across different age groups using a sample of 10,620 US adults. Consistent with the literature on youth, SGM adults showed higher rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors than cisgender heterosexual adults. When examining prevalence rates across various age groups, young adults (18-24) showed greater lifetime and past month suicidal thoughts and behaviors relative to adults ages 45+. Adults ages 18-24 also showed greater past month suicidal ideation than adults ages 25-44; however, there were no group differences in lifetime suicidal thoughts and behaviors and past month suicidal behavior between adults ages 18-24 and 25-44. Although suicidal thoughts and behaviors are most common among young SGM adults, other age groups do still show concerning rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, suggesting that this risk might extend to later years of life. Additional resources for SGM adults that are not only tailored toward youth and young adults are warranted.

Perceived ageism and psychosocial outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundIn light of the existing knowledge gap in this research area (particularly based on representative samples and research conducted during the pandemic), the objective of this study was to explore the association between perceived ageism and psychosocial outcomes (i.e., in terms of life satisfaction, loneliness, social isolation, aging satisfaction and depressive symptoms) among middle-aged and older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic based on nationally representative data.MethodsWe used data from the nationally representative German Ageing Survey, which covers community-dwelling middle-aged and older individuals aged 40 years or over. Specifically, wave 7 of the German Ageing Survey (conducted from November 2020 to March 2021) was analyzed, consisting of a sample of 4,167 individuals with an average age of 68.7 years (SD: 10.1 years; ranging from 46 to 98 years). Established instruments were employed to measure psychosocial outcomes.ResultsRegressions showed that the presence of perceived ageism was significantly associated with unfavorable psychometric outcomes (i.e., higher loneliness: β = 0.29, p < 0.001; higher perceived social isolation: β = 0.32, p < 0.001; more depressive symptoms: β = 2.68, p < 0.001; lower life satisfaction: β=-0.28, p < 0.001; higher negative affect: β = 0.21, p < 0.001; lower aging satisfaction: β=-0.19, p < 0.001), except for positive affect (β=-0.06, p = 0.10). Stratified by age group (i.e., individuals 40 to 64 years; individuals aged 65 years and over, see Tables 3 and 4), comparable results were obtained in terms of significance.ConclusionsPerceived ageism was associated with unfavorable psychosocial outcomes. This knowledge can help reduce vulnerability to negative psychosocial factors in people in the middle and later years of life.

Egg consumption and bone mass density among the elderly: A scoping review.

Eggs offer a range of essential nutrients that could support skeletal health as individuals age. Maintaining bone density is crucial for reducing the risk of fractures and improving overall mobility and quality of life in later years. Understanding the potential benefits of habitual egg consumption on bone mass density among older people is essential, given that the natural decline in bone mass density occurs with age. This area of research has not garnered sufficient attention basically because of the mixed reactions and conflicting reports about the safety of egg consumption especially among the older adults. This scoping review aims to systematically examine the existing literature to map the evidence regarding the association between habitual egg consumption and bone mass density in older adults' individuals. The scoping review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines to ensure methodological rigor and transparency. Five electronic databases were searched for published pieces of literature. While high egg intake has been linked to increased mortality and dyslipidemia, eggs contain compounds like Ovo transferrin and carotenoids that may benefit bone health. As aging increases vulnerability to bone fragility and fractures, it's crucial to provide comprehensive dietary recommendations. The complex relationship between egg consumption, cholesterol, and health highlights the need for nuanced assessment. Overall, eggs present a potentially valuable dietary component for promoting bone health in aging populations. Limited research on the link between egg consumption and bone mass density in older adults highlights the need for further investigation. Concerns about cholesterol have overshadowed potential benefits. Given aging populations and bone health challenges, exploring eggs' role in preventing falls and fractures is essential for a proactive approach to older adults' well-being.

Dairy product consumption, eating habits, sedentary behaviour and physical activity association with bone mineral density among adolescent boys: a cross-sectional observational study

BackgroundDuring childhood and adolescence, skeletal microarchitecture and bone mineral density (BMD) undergo significant changes. Peak bone mass is built and its level significantly affects the condition of bones in later years of life. Understanding the modifiable factors that improve bone parameters at an early age is necessary to early prevent osteoporosis. To identify these modifiable factors we analysed the relationship between dairy product consumption, eating habits, sedentary behaviour, and level of physical activity with BMD in 115 young boys (14–17 years).MethodsBone parameters were measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry using paediatric specific software to compile the data. Dairy product consumption and eating habits were assessed by means of a dietary interview. Sedentary behaviour and physical activity was assessed in a face-to-face interview conducted using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Data collection on total physical activity level was performed by collecting information on the number of days and the duration of vigorous and moderate intensity (MVPA) and average daily time spent in sitting (SIT time).ResultsThe strongest relationships with BMD in distal part of forearm were found for moderate plus vigorous activity, sit time, and intake of dairy products, intake of calcium, protein, vitamin D, phosphorus from diet. Relationships between BMD, bone mineral content (BMC) in the distal and proximal part of the forearm and PA, sit time and eating parameters were evaluated using the multiple forward stepwise regression. The presented model explained 48–67% (adjusted R2 = 0.48–0.67; p < 0.001) of the variance in bone parameters. The predictor of interactions of three variables: protein intake (g/person/day), vitamin D intake (µg/day) and phosphorus intake (mg/day) was significant for BMD dis (adjusted R2 = 0.59; p < 0.001). The predictor of interactions of two variables: SIT time (h/day) and dairy products (n/day) was significant for BMD prox (adjusted R2 = 0.48; p < 0.001). Furthermore, the predictor of interactions dairy products (n/day), protein intake (g/person/day) and phosphorus intake (mg/day) was significant for BMC prox and dis (adjusted R2 = 0.63–0.67; p < 0.001).ConclusionsHigh physical activity and optimal eating habits especially adequate intake of important dietary components for bone health such as calcium, protein, vitamin D and phosphorus affect the mineralization of forearm bones.

Eating Habits Of Polish Children

Introduction: Unhealthy eating habits in childhood, usually based on a Western diet, can lead to overweight and obesity. They are also an important factor in the increased risk of developing many diet-related diseases later in life. Early identification of school aged children with poor eating habits can help reduce the risk of obesity and the development of chronic diseases in adulthood. The aim of the present study was to analyze selected dietary habits of school-aged children and adolescents.Material and Methods: The study involved data collected from 2,986 children and adolescents aged 10 to 18 attending se lected schools in Poland as part of the e-PE program. Results: In the study group, 76% of children and adolescents reported consuming 3-4 meals per day. A little over 11% restricted themselves to fewer meals, while the remainder adopted a pattern of 5 or more meals. Irregular eating patterns were reported by 40.7% of respondents. Conclusions: In view of the more frequent occurrence of nutritional abnormalities in children and adolescents, and thus a greater risk for the emergence of numerous consequences in later years of life, it is necessary to systematically monitor diet as a risk factor for the development of overweight and obesity to implement interventions to counteract weight gain at an early stage of adverse changes.

The mechanism of static postural control in the impact of lower limb muscle strength asymmetry on gait performance in the elderly.

Abnormal gait is prevalent among the elderly population, leading to reduced physical activity, increased risk of falls, and the potential development of dementia and disabilities, thus degrading the quality of life in later years. Numerous studies have highlighted the crucial roles of lower limb muscle strength asymmetry and static postural control in gait, and the reciprocal influence of lower limb muscle strength asymmetry on static postural control. However, research exploring the interrelationship between lower limb muscle strength asymmetry, static postural control, and gait performance has been limited. A total of 55 elderly participants aged 60 to 75 years were recruited. Isokinetic muscle strength testing was used to assess bilateral knee extension strength, and asymmetry values were calculated. Participants with asymmetry greater than 15% were categorized as the Asymmetry Group (AG), while those with asymmetry less than 15% were classified in the Symmetry Group (SG). Gait parameters were measured using a plantar pressure gait analysis system to evaluate gait performance, and static postural control was assessed through comfortable and narrow stance tests. First, participants in the AG demonstrated inferior gait performance, characterized by slower gait speed, longer stance time and percentage of stance time in gait, and smaller swing time and percentage of swing time in gait. Spatial-temporal gait parameters of the weaker limb tended to be abnormal. Second, static postural control indices were higher in AG compared to SG in all aspects except for the area of ellipse during the comfortable stance with eyes open test. Third, abnormal gait parameters were associated with static postural control. Firstly, elderly individuals with lower limb muscle strength asymmetry are prone to abnormal gait, with the weaker limb exhibiting poorer gait performance. Secondly, lower limb muscle strength asymmetry contributes to diminished static postural control in the elderly. Thirdly, the mechanism underlying abnormal gait in the elderly due to lower limb muscle strength asymmetry may be linked to a decline in static postural control.

Test-retest reliability of Latin American Group for Maturity (GDLAM) protocol in older women.

Functional autonomy (FA) is a critical factor in determining the quality of life of older adults (OA), especially in the case of older women (OW), as they face a decline in FA in their later years of life. FA should be assessed early, using valid, reliable, and low-cost tests. This study evaluated the test-retest reliability of GDLAM and GDLAM autonomy index (GI) in OW. Thirty-nine OW (71.2 ± 6.50 years) participated in the study. A repeated measures design was used to compare the interday test-retest reliability of the five GDLAM tests (seconds) and the GI (points). The five tests represent activities of daily living, such as dressing or wandering around the house, while the GI provides a weighting of the results of the five tests. The analysis consisted of the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and coefficient of variation (CV). A CV ≤ 10% and an ICC ≥ 0.80 were considered acceptable reliability, whereas a CV ≤ 5% and an ICC ≥ 0.90 were considered high reliability. The outcome of the five tests, represented by the GI, showed high interday test-retest reliability (CV = 6.00% and ICC = 0.91). The results of this study demonstrate that the five tests of the GDLAM protocol and the GI have high interday test-retest reliability and good interday reproducibility. From a practical point of view, the GDLAM protocol allows the assessment of FA of community-dwelling OW, providing background for early diagnosis and, with it, the possibility of developing an individualized physical exercise prescription.

EXAMINING RELATIONS BETWEEN OLDER ADULTS’ HEALTH, WISDOM, AND WELL-BEING DURING TIMES OF HARDSHIP

Abstract This symposium investigates the roles of health and wisdom characteristics as older adults’ resources during difficult times and whether ill health might explain lower wisdom during the later years of life. The first two presentations explored COVID-related changes in mental health. Utilizing a national sample of 1258 adults, Park found that acceptance of negative emotions, emotion regulation, and perceived social support at the beginning of the COVID pandemic (mid-April of 2020) predicted middle-aged (36-60 years, Mage=52) and older adults’ (61-88 years, Mage=70) lower distress five weeks later. Feng and colleagues analyzed well-being changes in 69 older adults (50-77 years, Mage=59) from before COVID (Time1) to the summer of 2020 (Time2) and 18 months later (Time3). Multiple logistic regressions revealed that greater wisdom and better health at Time2 and higher self-transcendence and better health at Time3 increased the likelihood of being well-adapted across time. Cogdill-Richardson and Bluck examined grief adaptation among 54 older widowed adults (Mage=81). Regression analyses showed that greater wisdom and better physical functioning predicted better grief-related mental health. Whereas good health and wisdom are consistent predictors of well-being in old age, ill health itself is a stressor. Analyzing data of 976 older adults (51-99 years, Mage = 77), Ardelt and Jeste found that the negative association between age and wisdom might be due to ill health that reduces older adults’ sense of mastery, which might lessen their motivation for wisdom development. Overall, this symposium demonstrates how health, wisdom, and well-being are interrelated, particularly during times of hardship.

Burning mouth syndrome- An overview

A burning sensation of the oral mucosa without any obvious oral lesions is a defining feature of the burning mouth syndrome (BMS), a chronic and untreatable orofacial pain syndrome. Women in their later years of life who are experiencing hormonal shifts or psychological issues are most affected by this ailment. BMS patients also complains of pain in oral mucosa, taste perception changes and dry mouth with burning sensation. Even though the exact cause of BMS is unknown, a complicated correlation between biological and psychological components has been found, pointing to the possibility of a multiple etiology. This article's goal is to review the etiology, clinical manifestation, and management of BMS.

Prevalence and risk factors of prehypertension/hypertension among freshman students from the Vietnam National University: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundPrehypertension (PHT) and hypertension (HTN) in young adults are essential risk factors for other cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in later years of life. However, there is a lack of knowledge about the burden and risk factors of PHT/HTN for Vietnamese youth. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of PHT/HTN and risk factors among university students in Hanoi, Vietnam.MethodsThis study was designed as a cross-sectional investigation with 840 students (394 males and 446 females) randomly sampled from freshmen of Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU). Socio-demographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle data were collected using questionnaire forms and physical measurements. HTN was defined as blood pressure (BP) ≥ 140/90 mmHg and/or current treatment with antihypertensive medications. PHT was defined as a systolic BP from 120 to 139 mmHg and/or a diastolic BP from 80 to 89 mmHg. Body mass index (BMI) was classified according to the WHO diagnostic criteria for Asian adults: normal weight (BMI 18.5–22.9 kg/m2), underweight (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2), overweight (BMI 23–24.9 kg/m2), and obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2). Bivariable and multivariable log-binomial regression analyses were conducted to explore the association of PHT/HTN with different risk factors.ResultsThe overall prevalence of prehypertension and hypertension was 33.5% [95% CI: 30.3–36.8%] (54.1% in men and 15.3% in women) and 1.4% [95% CI: 0.7–2.5%] (2.5% in men and 0.5% in women), respectively. Regarding CVD major risk factors, 119 (14.2%) were identified as overweight/obese, 461 (54.9%) were physical inactivity, 29.4% of men and 8.1% of women reported consuming alcohol. The multivariable analysis indicated the male sex (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 3.07; 95% CI: 2.32–4.06), alcohol consumption (aPR = 1.28; 95% CI: 1.03–1.59) and obesity (aPR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.08–1.68) as the independent risk factors for PHT/HTN.ConclusionsThe results revealed the high burden of prehypertension and hypertension among university freshmen in VNU. Male sex, alcohol consumption, and obesity were identified as important risk factors for PHT/HTN. Our study suggests an early screening program for PHT/HTN and campaigns to promote a healthy lifestyle for young adults in Vietnam.

Molecular Docking and Network Pharmacology Interaction Analysis of Gingko Biloba (EGB761) Extract with Dual Target Inhibitory Mechanism in Alzheimer's Disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of neurodegenerative dementia affecting people in their later years of life. The AD prevalence rate has significantly increased due to a lack of early detection technology and low therapeutic efficacy. Despite recent scientific advances, some aspects of AD pathological targets still require special attention. Certain traditionally consumed phytocompounds have been used for thousands of years to treat such pathologies. The standard extract of Gingko biloba (EGB761) is a combination of 13 macro phyto-compounds and various other micro phytocompounds that have shown greater therapeutic potential against the pathology of AD. Strong physiological evidence of cognitive health preservation has been observed in elderly people who keep an active lifestyle. According to some theories, consuming certain medicinal extracts helps build cognitive reserve. We outline the research employing EGB761 as a dual target for AD. This study investigates various inhibitory targets against AD using computational approaches such as molecular docking, network pharmacology, ADMET (full form), and bioactivity prediction of the selected compounds. After interaction studies were done for all the phytoconstituents of EGB761, it was concluded that all four of the phytocompounds (kaempferol, isorhamnetin, quercetin, and ginkgotoxin) showed the maximum inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and GSK3β. The highly active phytocompounds of EGB761, especially quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin, have better activity against AChE and GSK3β than its reported synthetic drug, according to molecular docking and network pharmacology research. These compounds may act on multiple targets in the protein network of AD. The AChE theory was primarily responsible for EGB761's therapeutic efficacy in treating AD.

Australian retirement village residents: wellbeing profiles and factors associated with low wellbeing

Abstract The characteristics of Australian retirement village residents, an under-researched population, are not well understood. Knowledge of their wellbeing and modifiable factors associated with low wellbeing would aid in the introduction of health promotion measures and supports to facilitate healthy ageing-in-place. A novel approach utilising latent class analysis (LCA), a statistical method not previously employed to study this population, was undertaken to analyse cross-sectional survey data from 871 participants aged ≥65 years from retirement villages in Queensland, Australia. LCA identified latent, i.e. unobserved, underlying and often difficult to measure, groups within this population based on the responses of individuals to multiple observed variables. Survey participants were divided into groups, each with a distinct profile associated with a wellbeing state, as determined by responses to questions about physical health, unplanned hospitalisations, cognitive health and social connectedness. Multinomial logistic regression explored the relationship between modifiable health and lifestyle characteristics and membership of a particular wellbeing group. The median age of participants was 82 years (interquartile range = 76–88). While 69.0 per cent reported good to excellent health, polypharmacy was evident with 45.6 per cent of participants taking five or more prescription medications. In the previous 12 months, 33.3 per cent had experienced one or more falls and 30.6 per cent an unplanned hospitalisation. Distinct profiles were identified for three wellbeing groups: high (57.7% of participants), moderate (20.6%) and low wellbeing (21.7%). Injurious falls, limited ability to prepare meals and debilitating pain were associated with the moderate and low wellbeing groups. Physical activity significantly lowered the probability of a retirement village resident being in the low wellbeing group. Our findings highlight falls prevention, maintaining adequate nutrition, pain management and regular physical activity as actions that may optimise wellbeing, mitigate functional decline and support the independence of retirement village residents into later years of life.

The influence of vitamin D supplementation and strength training on health biomarkers and chromosomal damage in community-dwelling older adults

Older adults lack of proper physical activity which is often accompanied by vitamin D deficiency. Those factors are known to contribute to health issues in the later years of life. The main goal of this intervention study was to investigate the effect of different vitamin D supplementation strategies for 4 weeks solely or combined with a 10-week strength training program on chromosomal stability in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in community-dwelling older people. One hundred women and men (65–85 years) received either vitamin D3 daily (800 IU), a monthly dose (50.000 IU) or placebo for 17 weeks. All groups received 400 mg calcium daily. The fitness status of the study participants was measured using the 30- second chair stand test, the handgrip strength test and the 6-min walk test. The cytokinesis block micronucleus cytome (CBMN) assay was applied to analyze chromosomal anomalies, including cytotoxic and genotoxic parameters. Changes in antioxidant markers were measured in plasma.Walking distance and chair stand performance improved significantly. Increased levels of the parameters of the CBMN assay were detected for all intervention groups at study end. At baseline micronuclei (MNi) frequency correlated significantly with BMI in both sexes (females: r = 0.369, p = 0.034; males: r = 0.265, p = 0.035), but not with vitamin D serum levels. In females, body fat (r = 0.372, p < 0.001) and functional parameter using the 30-s chair stand test (r = 0.311, p = 0.002) correlated significantly with MNi frequency. Interestingly, not vitamin D supplementation but 10 weeks of resistance training increased MNi frequency indicating elevated chromosomal instability and also adverse effects on antioxidant markers including glutathione and FRAP were detected in the group of community-dwelling older adults.

Brain abscess in older children with uncorrected tetralogy of Fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot is the most common cyanotic congenital heart disease. Corrective surgery is indicated during infancy for the best outcome, however, due to poor availability and affordability of surgery, many children of resource-poor settings live with uncorrected tetralogy of Fallot. They suffer from dreaded complications like brain abscess, in later years of life. We report 3 cases of tetralogy of Fallot who developed brain abscess during their childhood.

Creativity and Aging: The Role of Diversity

Creativity is defined in the Oxford English Dictionary as “the use of imagination or original ideas to create something” (2012), which is typically conceptualized as an artistic piece of work, but can be an invention, a theory, or even a solution to a problem. Thus, creativity is also relevant in the scientific fields, where the presence of flexible, or divergent, thinking is considered an essential component. Although there is little evidence of differences in creative abilities based on gender and race, lack of representation of women and marginalized racial/ethnic groups in creative fields including art, fashion, film, and music has been documented (Topaz et al 2022). Similarly, fewer than three percent of Nobel science winners are women, and only one woman of color has ever received the award.Creativity, and engagement in creative activities, has received recent interest in the geriatric field, because it is thought that both may play a role in successful aging and enhanced coping during the later years of life. Indeed, participating in creative arts appears to improve quality of life and health outcomes in older adults. However, the literature on creativity and aging has not focused on the potential effects of gender and race diversity. This symposium will examine the theme of creativity and aging, with special emphasis on issues related to diversity. Dr. Ali Abbas Asghar-Ali's presentation will focus on the lives and artistic work of two artists, Carmen Herrera and Mirdidingkingathi Juwarnda Sally Gabori who, through very different life experiences, maintained a high level of creativity in their later years. The talk will highlight aspects of diversity and equity that impacted on the personal lives and professional careers of these two artists. Dr. Linda Mah will present the recent literature on the impact of aging on creativity to answer the question of whether creativity declines in the later years and discuss the extent to which these changes are modulated by race or gender. Dr. Ruchi Aggarwal will conclude with an overview of the evidence for the potential benefits of creative arts-based interventions on mental and physical health in older adults, with special attention paid to the diversity of participants and potential impact on outcomes. As discussant, Dr. Rita Hargrave will provide commentary on the intersection between aging, race and gender and the process of creativity from her unique perspective as a geriatric psychiatrist with expertise in aging, culture, and wellness, as well as her work in dance and film making. She will also present a brief clip from her documentary "The Last Mambo" which focuses on the history and future of Latin music in the San Francisco Bay Area.This symposium is sponsored by the AAGP Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity in Action (IDEA) Committee.

KNOLWEDGE AND BELIEF TOWARDS OSTEOPOROSIS AMONG FEMALE NURSING STUDENTS OF SELECTED NURSING COLLEGE, MANGALORE

Osteoporosis continues to be underrecognized condition that can be avoided by adopting a healthy lifestyle at younger age. A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted to assess knowledge and belief towards osteoporosis among 142 nursing college students. The data collection instrument used were by OKAT (Osteoporosis Knowledge assessment tool) for knowledge assessment and belief by OHBS (Osteoporosis Health belief scale) and subjects were selected by convenient sampling. The study results found that mean age of students were 19.95± 1.2 years, a small proportion of students 3% &amp; 14.7% of subjects had family history of osteoporosis and personal fracture. 44.36% &amp; 54.92% of subjects were not sure whether they are getting adequate sun exposure or intake of calcium rich foods. 46.47% of students reported they have never consumed calcium supplements. 11.97% had good knowledge, majority 69.01% had satisfactory knowledge and 19.01% had poor knowledge regrading osteoporosis. Belief towards osteoporosis overall mean score obtained by the students were 157.4 ± 13.78, the result revealed that there is no much difference among subdomain scores of beliefs regarding osteoporosis. The study nding points that students are aware about the condition but needs to incorporate healthy lifestyle at younger age that will enable to have optimal life in later years.

Food habits and medical circumstances are linked to third-trimester weight increase during pregnancy

It is crucial for women to consume a balanced diet during the gestation period for both her own health and the best possible development of the foetus. A child’s good growth and development, which in turn leads to a productive and healthy life in later years, depend largely on adequate nutrition during the “critical window of opportunity” in the first 1000 days. Total weight gain during pregnancy, which is obviously determined and impacted by maternal nutritional intake during pregnancy, is one of many elements that determine foetal growth as a result of overall pregnancy status. One of the best indicators of a successful pregnancy is observing a mother’s adequate weight growth. Predicting new born and mother morbidity and death using weight gain during pregnancy is crucial. Other factors like PCOD, hypothyroidism, GDM can also play a role in excessive weight gain. The present research focuses to study more about factors that causes excessive weight gain during pregnancy.