There is a deficit in training, skill development opportunities, and resources needed to prepare Black early-career scholars for sustainable careers in gerontology. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) play an important role in this effort, as they produce a large percentage of Black graduates in social science and health fields. This paper describes one initiative designed to diversify the gerontological workforce: the HBCU Aging Conference. Co-organized by the Gerontological Society of America's HBCU Collaborative Interest Group and Blacks in Gerontology and Geriatrics, the first convening occurred as a soft launch in 2023, followed by the inaugural full conference in 2024. Based on a succinct review of conference activities, this paper presents recommendations for preparing future scholars to address knowledge gaps in Black aging research. The HBCU Aging Conference has created a critical pipeline for training and supporting the next generation of Black scholars in aging.

OBJECTIVES:The current literature lacks an established and adoptable definition of "racial health equity." This study aimed to catalog and evaluate, via thematic analyses, definitions and terminology related to racial health equity across the specific studies from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Cochrane-US (United States) (RWJF-Cochrane) "Centering Racial Health Equity in Systematic Reviews" project and to propose a working definition based on study findings. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING:We employed an integrative review framework to analyze current definitions of racial health equity terms identified within published studies from the RWJF-Cochrane project. Definitions of racial health equity were identified via dual reviewer screening of all identified studies and interview transcripts, which included recent systematic reviews (published since 2020), theoretical and conceptual health literature, and listening exercises with interest holders involved in systematic reviews addressing health equity. Identified definitions were analyzed via thematic coding using the Braun and Clarke framework. RESULTS:We reviewed 157 systematic reviews, 29 interviews, and 16 articles related to racial health equity for the presence of racial health equity definitions. This review resulted in 32 definitions of racial health equity from theoretical and conceptual health literature (n = 16) and interest holder transcripts (n = 16). No systematic reviews contained definitions of racial health equity. Retrieved definitions emphasize equality in health or health care, including outcomes, processes, or care; themes of discrimination in health-care settings; and acknowledgments of the intersections of social determinants of health with health equity. Definitions varied on the role of improving health-care access in achieving racial health equity. A working definition of racial health equity is proposed using common themes identified across definitions. CONCLUSION:Our findings highlight that a clear and consistent definition of racial health equity will assist researchers, practitioners, and policymakers with developing metrics and interventions aimed at reducing racial health inequities. Thus, we propose a working definition for racial health equity, which emphasizes 1) fairness and justice in health, 2) equality in health outcomes and access across racialized groups, 3) a recognition that social consequences of one's race and/or ethnicity may influence health or the quality of health care received. We also note areas of variability in understandings that require further discussion.

Recent scholarship has questioned the lack of culturally responsive, theory-guided research addressing the connections between aging, minority communities, and what is needed to advance health equity. Models that utilize traditional theories of aging often do not account for the cultural context that undergirds the aging experience, and this is especially the case for older Black women. To understand the ways in which Black women thrive, we must consider various approaches that define their well-being. Dichotomizing aging into concrete categories as healthy/unhealthy may unintentionally isolate this group where aging successfully presents as a contradiction, thus perpetuating further marginalization. It is important that scholarship and intervention projects reflect cultural humility in dissemination. Therefore, we propose Black-Feminist-Womanist Gerontology, a curation of thought that creates a foundation by which Black women survive, live, and age, despite the "gold standard" of aging being dominated by White ethnocentric context that pathologizes older Black women's lived experiences. In this forum article, we summarize the principles of Black Feminist-Womanist Gerontology, a culturally relevant model for studying Black women's health as they age. Factors of the model and recommendations of its use will be discussed and applied to the study of Black women in menopause.

Background:The websites of prominent public health and health care organizations play pivotal roles in ensuring access to quality health information, including information guiding health equity. Several initiatives have been developed in the United States to promote equitable, fair, and inclusive health information and practices across prominent health websites. Currently, health disparities across racial groups are recognized as a critical public health problem. Simultaneously, the use of the term "racial health equity/equities" has been rising in academic literature. However, the definition and findability of "racial health equity/equities" information have not yet been evaluated in health websites. Thus, we used a systematic review approach to assess the findability and availability of racial health equity terminology and definitions across prominent health organization websites. Objective:The objective of this study was to systematically evaluate the definitions and findability of "racial health equity/equities and related terms" on prominent health organizations' websites. Methods:We conducted a systematic review of websites from government agencies, professional organizations, and selected health care organizations with relevance to the US health care system. Google and the US Digital Analytics program were used for initial searches. Definitions, terms, and accompanying citations for racial health equity terms, including "racial health inequity" or "racial health disparities," were extracted from all websites. A findability tool was developed to evaluate the ease of finding the terms and definitions, with ratings ranging from "very easy" to "very difficult." Additionally, we analyzed the themes and sentiments of the retrieved definitions. Results:We analyzed 69 websites from prominent health organizations. Approximately half (n=31) of the websites lacked any definitions for racial health equity and related terms, and of the 38 that included definitions, most did not include citations. The definitions varied across websites, and most were rated as "very difficult" to find. Conclusions:This study highlights the absence of a systematic, standardized, and accurate approach to organizing, defining, and presenting racial health equity information on prominent health websites. Specifically, there is a lack of consistent definitions for racial health equity and related terms across prominent health organization websites.

Dr. Tamara A. Baker is a Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is an appointed member of the US Department of Veterans Affairs’ Geriatric and Gerontology Advisory Committee, a member of the National Ins tutes of Health’s Interagency Pain Coordina ng Commi ee, and a member of the Helping to End Addiction Long-Term (HEAL) Pain Strategic Plan’s Execu ve Commi ee. Dr. Baker is a member of Taylor & Francis’ editorial Advisory Board and Editor-in-Chief of Ethnicity & Health. She is formerly the Gerontological Society of America’s (GSA) Secretary and has served as Chair of the Commi ee on Minority Issues in Gerontology and Chair of the Behavioral and Social Sciences (BSS) section. She is a GSA Fellow, founder and co-convener of GSA’s Historically Black Colleges and Universi es (HBCU) Collaborative Interest Group, and appointed GSA Board of Governor’s Vice President (2025) and GSA President (2026). Her background in Gerontology, Psychology, and Biobehavioral Health has evolved into an active research agenda that focuses on understanding the behavioral and psychosocial predictors and outcomes of chronic pain and pain and symptom management among older adults from historically marginalized populations. She also examines health disparities and inequities in pain management, and access and availability to pain management resources among older adults. Broadly, her research includes health disparities and health equity, cultural diversity/sensitivity, and social determinants of health. Dr. Baker is recently funded in developing pipeline programs to address diversifying the aging research workforce.

Pain is common among nursing home (NH) residents and can significantly impact quality of end-of-life experiences, yet inequities in pain assessment and treatment persist and are less studied among racial groups with smaller population sizes. This study examined associations between resident race, cognitive impairment, and NH racial composition with any pain documented in the last five days. We conducted a longitudinal multi-level logistic regression using MDS 3.0, LTCFocus, and MBSF data. We focused on residents who died in 2018 or 2019, regardless of place of death (n = 617,922). Analyses were stratified by staff- and self-reported pain, controlling for resident age, function, comorbidity, gender, and NH percent Medicaid, bed number, staffing, ownership, and rurality. In the initial adjusted models, both staff- and self-reported pain increased over the year before death. Staff- and self-reported pain decreased as cognitive impairment increased, and this was more dramatic in the self-reported model. In both models, pain varied by race, with American Indian or Alaskan Native residents having the highest rates, followed by Hispanic and White residents at similar rates; Black residents had slightly lower rates, followed by Asian residents, and Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander residents at the lowest. Pain was more frequently reported in predominately White NHs than in more racially diverse NHs, especially in the staff-reported model. Disparities may reflect underassessment of pain and inappropriate pain assessment methods, particularly at the NH-level in facilities that included more racially minoritized residents. Further research is needed to clarify these disparities and ensure equitable pain management.

OBJECTIVES:To systematically evaluate definitions of "racial health equity" (RHE) and related terms within health-related academic literature. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING:We systematically evaluated definitions of RHE and related terms within health-related academic articles. Articles published in English were included, and no date restrictions were imposed. RESULTS:We found 20 original articles containing relevant definitions out of 1816 retrieved articles, thirteen of which were published from 2020 to 2023. Themes used in the definitions varied; racism (n = 12) and quality of healthcare (n = 10) were the most common. Additional themes, including social hierarchy or marginalization, discrimination, justice, unmet social needs, and historical events were described within some definitions. Eleven of the included manuscripts defined race as a social construct. CONCLUSION:This study depicts RHE as an emerging concept with limited consensus on racism, quality of health, and social determinants of health as important underlying frameworks. To center equity efforts and actions under a workable and shared vision, we recommend continued discussions regarding underlying meanings of RHE concepts and propose establishing a definition that promotes unity across health fields and prevents ambiguity.

Abstract There is a long history documenting Black women being particularly vulnerable to negative implicit and/or explicit behaviors, which marginalizes their social positioning and puts them at an increased risk of feeling powerlessness, and physically and emotionally stressed. This has created a chasm, particularly between this group and the healthcare industry - resulting in poorer health outcomes across generations of Black women. Recent scholarship has questioned the lack of culturally responsive, theory-guided research addressing the connections between aging, Black womanhood, and what is needed to advance health equity. Models that utilize traditional theories of aging often do not account for cultural context that undergirds the aging experience specifically among Black women. To understand the ways in which Black women thrive, we must consider various approaches that define their well-being. Dichotomizing aging into concrete categories as healthy/unhealthy may unintentionally isolate this group where aging successfully presents as a contradiction, thus perpetuating further marginalization. It is important that scholarship and intervention projects reflect cultural humility in dissemination. Applying Black-Feminist-Womanist methods in gerontology provides a curation of thought that creates a foundation by which Black women survive, live, and age, despite the ‘gold standard’ of aging being dominated by white ethnocentric context that pathologizes older Black women’s lived experiences. In this presentation, we summarize the principles and methodological approaches of Black Feminist and Womanist perspectives and use them to conceptualize “Black Feminist-Womanist Gerontology,” a culturally relevant model for older Black women. Factors of the model and recommendations of its use will be discussed.

Abstract RCMAR was established to develop a research and mentoring infrastructure that fosters rigorous behavioral and social science research on aging in a high priority research area that can advance aging-relevant scientific discoveries, lead to the elimination of health disparities and health inequities, and improve the health and well-being of older adults. The primary objectives of RCMAR are 1) career development, which aims to support the career development of early-career scientists conducting social, behavioral, psychological, and economic research related to aging, and 2) advancement of scientific discoveries related to aging. Scientists participating in this program are afforded opportunities to establish a successful program of research; personalized guidance through professional development activities, helping scientists develop skills, knowledge, and confidence in the field; networking opportunities, expanding their professional network and potential career opportunities; personal growth; feedback and advice, helping scientists improve performance and make informed decisions; career advancement, receiving guidance on strategies for success; and knowledge transfer, fostering continuity and innovation in the field. These opportunities are recognized in developing some of the most established scholars in the discipline. Dr. Baker, a former RCMAR scientist will reflect on how her participation as a RCMAR scientist has allowed her to build a successful research career on the intersection of social determinants and chronic pain in older adults; be an advocate in diversifying the workforce; and become a leader in the gerontology discipline. Highlighting these successes is intended to broaden the outreach of program while encouraging others to consider this opportunity.

Background In the USA, access to quality healthcare varies greatly across racial and ethnic groups, resulting in significant health disparities. A new term, “racial health equity” (RHE), is increasingly reported in the medical literature, but there is currently no consensus definition of the term. Additionally, related terms such as “health disparities,” “health inequities,” and “equality” have been inconsistently used when defining RHE. Methods The primary purpose of this scoping review is to investigate the current use and underlying concepts used to define racial health equity. The study will address two key questions: (1) “What terminology and definitions have been used to characterize RHE?” and (2) “What knowledge gaps and challenges are present in the current state of RHE research and theory?” The review will collect and analyze data from three sources: (1) websites from key national and international health organizations, (2) theoretical and narrative published articles, and (3) evidence synthesis studies addressing interventions targeting racial health equity and minority stakeholder engagement. Discussion Defining “racial health equity” and related terminology is the first step to advancing racial health equity within the USA. This review aims to offer an improved understanding of RHE constructs and definitions, bringing greater unity to national racial health equity research efforts across disciplines. Systematic review registration This protocol is registered with the Open Science Framework at https://osf.io/7pvzq .

OBJECTIVE:To examine influences of sociocultural and economic determinants on physical therapy (PT) utilization for older adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).METHODS:In these annual cross-sectional analyses between 2012 and 2016, we accessed Medicare enrollment data and fee-for-service claims. The cohort included Medicare beneficiaries with RA based on 3 diagnosis codes or 2 codes plus a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug medication claim. We defined race and ethnicity and dual Medicare/Medicaid coverage (proxy for income) using enrollment data. Adults with a Current Procedural Terminology code for PT evaluation were classified as utilizing PT services. Associations between race and ethnicity and dual coverage and PT utilization were estimated with logistic regression analyses. Potential interactions between race and ethnicity status and dual coverage were tested using interaction terms.RESULTS:Of 106,470 adults with RA (75.1% female; aged 75.8 [SD 7.3] years; 83.9% identified as non-Hispanic White, 8.8% as non-Hispanic Black, 7.2% as Hispanic), 9.6-12.5% used PT in a given year. Non-Hispanic Black (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.77, 95% CI 0.73-0.82) and Hispanic (aOR 0.92, 95% CI 0.87-0.98) individuals had lower odds of PT utilization than non-Hispanic White individuals. Adults with dual coverage (lower income) had lower odds of utilization than adults with Medicare only (aOR 0.44, 95% CI 0.43-0.46). There were no significant interactions between race and ethnicity status and dual coverage on utilization.CONCLUSION:We found sociocultural and economic disparities in PT utilization in older adults with RA. We must identify and address the underlying factors that influence these disparities in order to mitigate them.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:This theory-guided review draws on 30 years of published data to examine and interrogate the current and future state of pain disparities research. METHODS:Using the Hierarchy of Health Disparity Research framework, we synthesize and present an overview of "three generations" of pain disparities scholarship, while proposing directions for adopting a "fourth generation" that redefines, explains, and theorizes future pain disparities research in a diverse society. DISCUSSION:Prior research has focused on describing the scope of disparities, and throughout the historical context of human existence, racialized groups have been subjected to inadequate pain care. It is imperative that research not only illuminates existing problems but also provides solutions that can be implemented and sustained across varying social milieus. CONCLUSION:We must invest in new theoretical models that expand on current perspectives and ideals that position all individuals at the forefront of justice and equity in their health.

IntroductionThe lack of empirical evidence documenting the pain experience of Black men may be the result of social messaging that men are to project strength and avoid any expression of emotion or vulnerability. This avoidant behavior however, often comes too late when illnesses/symptoms are more aggressive and/or diagnosed at a later stage. This highlights two key issues - the willingness to acknowledge pain and wanting to seek medical attention when experiencing pain. MethodsTo better understand the pain experience in diverse raced and gendered groups, this secondary data analysis aimed to determine the influence identified physical, psychosocial, and behavioral health indicators have in reporting pain among Black men. Data were taken from a baseline sample of 321 Black men, >40 years old, who participated in the randomized, controlled Active & Healthy Brotherhood (AHB) project. Statistical models were calculated to determine which indicators (somatization, depression, anxiety, demographics, medical illnesses) were associated with pain reports. ResultsResults showed that 22% of the men reported pain for more than 30 days, with more than half of the sample being married (54%), employed (53%), and earning an income above the federal poverty level (76%). Multivariate analyses showed that those reporting pain were more likely to be unemployed, earn less income, and reported more medical conditions and somatization tendencies (OR=3.28, 95% CI (1.33, 8.06) compared to those who did not report pain. DiscussionFindings from this study indicate that efforts are needed to identify the unique pain experiences of Black men, while recognizing its impact on their identities as a man, a person of color, and someone living with pain. This allows for more comprehensive assessments, treatment plans, and prevention approaches that may have beneficial impacts throughout the life course.

Background and Objectives Prior research has highlighted the beneficial impact of social networks and social support on older adults' physical and psychosocial well-being. However, the impact of the relationship between chronic illness and social networks on the psychosocial well-being of older Nigerians remains understudied. This study explored how older Nigerians with chronic illnesses navigate the physical, mental, and emotional changes due to their chronic disease diagnosis within their social contexts.Research Design and Methods The current qualitative study used semistructured in-depth interviews with 19 purposively sampled older adults, aged 50 years and over, chronically ill, and receiving clinical care to examine the role of social networks in how chronically ill older Nigerians cope with their diagnosis.Results Three main themes reflecting participants' experiences emerged from the findings: (1) closely knit circles, (2) privacy and self-sufficiency, and (3) body image. Results show that chronically ill older Nigerians prefer to keep the knowledge of their conditions strictly within their close family circles. It was considered horrific to inform friends, community members, and religious groups about one's chronic illness. Findings further reveal that the need to appear healthy to one's social network stems from the fear of being discriminated against and attempts to maintain some level of normalcy when interacting with others. Additionally, feelings of inferiority and shame limited their participation in social activities and social network maintenance.Discussion and Implications We discuss the implications of the results for the mental well-being and quality of life of chronically ill older Nigerians and make recommendations for policies and resources that can improve the well-being of chronically ill Nigerians.

Abstract Health advancements have allowed older adults to a better quality of life. This however, is not equitably translated to the well-being of older Black adults. To bypass this narrative, actions are need to focus on restructuring fragmented systems that perpetuate health inequities and social injustices. This however cannot be the responsibility of one person, community, or institution, but rather a collective obligation of those willing to service the needs of all older adults. This allows us to not only acknowledge the scholarly work aimed at bettering the lives of our aging communities, but also recognizes the contributions of scholars affiliated with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), through research, policy, community interventions, and scholarly practices. To address this progressive movement, this collection of papers not only acknowledges the contributions of HBCUs to the gerontology discipline, but also to the scientific advancement focusing on the health and well-being of older Black adults. Speaker one will discuss the biopsychosocial determinants of cognitive function of older Black adults. Our second speaker will focus on religious coping and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among older Black individuals. Speaker three will highlight SDoH among older adults within Caribbean societies. The final speaker will discuss the impact and contributions of HBCU’s on an ’aging’ society through data analysis of demographic patterns and historical factors from an Afrocentric and Black perspectives. The discussant will tie together these themes and provide recommendations related to education, scholarly research ventures, particularly as it relates to health outcomes, equity, and collaborating with HBCUs. This is a HBCU Collaborative Interest Group Sponsored Symposium.

Background: There are inconsistencies documenting the pain experience of Black adults and other racially minoritized populations. Often disregarded, pain among these groups is characterized by misconceptions, biases, and discriminatory practices, which may lead to inequitable pain care. Methods: To address this issue, this professional commentary provides an overview of pain reform and the need to declare chronic pain as a critical public health issue, while requiring that equity be a key focus in providing comprehensive pain screening and standardizing epidemiological surveillance to understand the prevalence and incidence of pain. Results and Conclusions: This roadmap is a call to action for all sectors of research, practice, policy, education, and advocacy. More importantly, this progressive agenda is timely for all race and other marginalized groups and reminds us that adequate treatment of pain is an obligation that cannot be the responsibility of one person, community, or institution, but rather a collective responsibility of those willing to service the needs of all individuals.