The global population of individuals aged 60 and older is projected to grow to over 2 billion by 2050. How do we help the growing population maintain physical and mental health as they age? Many healthy aging initiatives focus on functional capacity, or the capability to perform daily tasks and activities. Age-related changes (ARCs) are the normal developments and changes associated with aging; they often affect functional capacity as they progress, but there is a gap in understanding how older adults identify the onset of ARCs. Early recognition of ARCs would give older adults and their healthcare providers more time to proactively manage and adapt, potentially decreasing the negative impact of ARCs on functional capacity and activities of day-to-day living. The purpose of this study was to explore physical changes and environmental factors that prompt older adults to recognize early stages of their ARCs. Data were collected from in-depth, semi-structured, qualitative, remote interviews with 30 adults aged 65 and over regarding their experiences with aging. The interview script was developed by my research mentor for a parent project. I added one question for my study. I personally conducted 8 interviews lasting approximately 1.5 hours. Interviews were transcribed and coded using the ATLAS.ti software program. Preliminary results of inductive content analysis indicated a few physical and environmental triggers – such as bothersome symptoms, activity limitations, and family history – that prompt older adults to recognize and address ARCs. Additional themes will likely emerge as more interviews are analyzed. Results from this study will serve as a point of reference to assist older adults and healthcare providers to recognize the early onset of ARCs that will ultimately affect the ability to manage tasks of day-to-day living. Results will also contribute to developing future interventions that aim to improve effective self-management among older adults.

In addition to the impact of COVID, older adults face age-related changes (ARCs) affecting activities of daily living. How COVID affects ARCs, and the ways older adults engage with their aging has not been studied. The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to understand the impact of COVID-19 on ARCs. I worked with a team of undergraduate, pre and post-doctoral students, and faculty. I assisted with developing questions for an interview guide to learn about ARCs and adaptations to mitigate these challenges. Participants completed online surveys on resiliency, social support, self-efficacy of managing daily activities, and loneliness. I conducted 1 mock interview, assisted with 3 interviews, and independently conducted 3 interviews over Zoom. During each interview I conducted, I shared my screen for participants to identify challenges on a pre-populated JamBoard, asked questions, and evaluated cognition. Our research team completed 30 interviews with 20 females and 10 males over the age of 65. I self-learned ATLAS-ti and have begun to analyze the qualitative data. Preliminary findings indicate that COVID has had a widespread impact on older adults' ability to adapt to current ARCs. Examples include: Men with urinary frequency issues reported difficulties finding open restrooms while out walking due to closures. Women who reported declines in stability and strength were discouraged with gym closures. Both genders reported increased hearing difficulties with the use of masks. One participant reported having a positive response with an increased likelihood to perform workouts over Zoom, which were not offered prior to the pandemic. The results of this study may provide better understanding of the impact of the pandemic on ARCs and provide guidance to better prepare individuals to maintain or create adaptations during a pandemic. Adaptive strategies used during the pandemic may continue to promote older adults’ health in the future.