News & Events

The next Pepper Investigators Lecture, co-sponsored this month by the Center for Health and Clinical Outcomes Research (H-COR), will be held in a hybrid format on April 22. Norrina Allen, PhD, Feinberg School of Medicine, will present, "Dementia Risk Across the Life Course: Novel Insights and Innovative Data Science Approaches."

Are you caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia? You’re not alone. Our Caregiver Connection Support Group offers a safe, supportive space to ask questions, share experiences, learn caregiving tips, and focus on caregiver self‑care. We meet every 2nd & 4th Friday, 12–1 PM. 2nd Friday: Hybrid meeting (In‑person at OLLI @ UTMB, 1200 Market St., Galveston + Zoom). 4th Friday: Zoom/Phone only. Contact Alice Williams for details at alwillia@utmb.edu.

The 2026 International Conference on Aging in the Americas (ICAA) invites abstract submissions from emerging and early‑career social science scholars whose work focuses on Latino health and aging, due May 31, 2026. This year’s conference theme, “Aging and Health in the Americas,” highlights innovative research addressing the social, economic, and health-related dimensions of aging within Latino communities.

Join us for a special lecture sponsored by the Sealy Center on Aging and the Department of Epidemiology on April 15, 2026. Anna Zajacova, PhD, from the University of Western Ontario will present, "Chronic Pain as a Population Health Priority in an Aging Society."

Researchers in the Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences are studying whether a home-based exercise program can help adults with Type 2 Diabetes and mild memory or thinking changes. We are looking for volunteers between the ages of 55 and 80 who have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus.

Through Pepper Center Pilot Project awards, faculty across disciplines receive seed funding, mentorship, and shared research infrastructure to test innovative ideas focused on aging and age-related conditions. Hear from past faculty awardees - Drs Mehta, Lyons and Downer - as they highlight how this early support has accelerated their work and strengthened UTMB’s aging research community.

The UTMB Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center (P30 AG024832) invites UTMB investigators to apply for its 2026 Pilot Research Awards. These one‑year, NIH‑funded pilot grants support innovative research that advances functional independence in older adults with chronic disabling conditions. Proposals are encouraged from all research areas—basic science, clinical research, population health, patient‑centered outcomes, and translational studies (T1–T4). Priority areas include chronic disabling conditions and recovery, technology to support independence, disparities in aging, geroscience, and community-based approaches to functional independence. All UTMB investigators interested in aging research are encouraged to apply.

DYK? More than 115 million U.S. adults have prediabetes. CBS News featured UTMB’s Dr. Hanaa Sallam to spotlight the CDC‑accredited Diabetes Prevention Program she leads on Diabetes Alert Day, March 24. Watch the full CBS segment to hear from Dr. Sallam as well as a study participant. Learn more about the Patient Education Program at UTMB, now recruiting participants.

The Galveston Heart Study, sponsored by the Sealy Heart and Vascular Institute, is a community-based research initiative enrolling over 5,000 participants to understand the various layers of cardiovascular health. Adults age 30 and older are invited to participate. To learn if you qualify and what to expect, contact a study coordinator at Phone: (409) 281-6546, Email: galvestonheart@utmb.edu.

Stories of Aging is a student-led oral history and portrait series supported by the Sealy Center on Aging at UTMB. In the latest interview of the series, Ulli Budelmann, UTMB Professor Emeritus, speaks with medical student Anna Pinchen about accidental scientific discoveries and finding a home in Galveston.

The UTMB Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center (P30 AG024832) invites UTMB investigators to apply for its 2026 Pilot Research Awards. These one‑year, NIH‑funded pilot grants support innovative research that advances functional independence in older adults with chronic disabling conditions. Proposals are encouraged from all research areas—basic science, clinical research, population health, patient‑centered outcomes, and translational studies (T1–T4). Priority areas include chronic disabling conditions and recovery, technology to support independence, disparities in aging, geroscience, and community-based approaches to functional independence. Awardees receive funding of up to $50,000 in direct costs and access to Pepper Center research cores, biostatistics support, and mentoring resources. The application process includes a Letter of Intent due April 6, 2026, followed by an invited full proposal due May 15, 2026. All UTMB investigators interested in aging research are encouraged to apply.

Join us for the next RCMAR Lecture on March 24, 2026. “Situating Functional and Cognitive Health Among Older Mexican Americans Within Neighborhood Context," will be presented by Weidi Qin, PhD, MSW, MPH, Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin–Madison, and, "Beyond Dollars and Hours: Understanding Care Characteristics and Caregiver Strain in Family Caregiving for Hispanic and non-Hispanic Older Americans," will be presented by Stipica Mudrazija, PhD, William L. Dowling Endowed Professor in Health Administration, University of Washington.

Join us for the next Pepper Investigators Lecture on March 25, 2026, “Home Hospice Care: A Journey to Understand Hospice Discharge, Symptom Burden, and Family Caregiving," presented by Veerawat Phongtankuel, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Weill Cornell.

Galveston is preparing for an exciting new chapter in community well‑being as the Blue Zones Project takes its next steps on the island. Residents, community partners, and stakeholders are invited to attend a special gathering that will introduce the initiative and outline the collaborative efforts ahead.

Thanks to everyone for participating in today's meet & greet with researchers and the Community Advisory Board (CAB) at SCOA and our NIA-funded Pepper Center! The CAB plays an important role in strengthening partnerships between research and the community.

The Texas RCMAR Analysis Core and UTMB’s Department of Biostatistics and Data Science will host a free virtual workshop on March 20, 2026, focused on “Handling Survey Weights and Missing Data in Applied Survey Research.” Led by experts Xiaoying Yu, PhD, Jeong Hoon Jang, PhD, and Moumita Chakraborty, PhD, the event will guide participants through key methods for analyzing complex survey data, addressing missingness, and applying modern statistical and Bayesian approaches. Register today to receive a Teams link.

Tirzepatide (Zepbound) is FDA-approved for weight loss—but could it also slow aging and improve your energy, mobility, and brain health? We are enrolling adults 55–70 for a study testing if tirzepatide (Zepbound)—a weight-loss medication—can also slow biological aging. Get compensated. Help us shape the future of healthy aging.

This 8-week summer intensive program is intended for medical students moving between year 1 and year 2 of training. Students enrolled in the MSTAR program benefit from an enriching experience in aging-related research and clinical geriatrics with the mentorship of top experts in the field. The long-term goal of the program is to increase the number of established clinicians and physician investigators who pursue research in high-priority areas related to aging.

The Lefeber Hughes Winter Series on Aging, now in its 31st year, features nationally recognized experts in gerontology, including research educators, basic scientists, clinicians, and social scientists. This five-week series of presentations is open to all, and we invite UTMB faculty, staff, students, trainees, and members of the local community to attend. Join us on Feb 3rd for the second lecture, "Connected Care - Virtual Assistants and Activity Trackers for Aging at Home," presented by Jessica Lee, MD, UTHealth Houston

Due to the weather and recent schedule adjustments, we wanted to share a quick update for tonight's Winter Series session. Dr. High will be joining us virtually for his presentation, "CMS Requirement for an Age-Friendly Health System—burden or opportunity?"; however, the session itself will still take place in person at the HEC. At this time, there is no virtual option for attendees. A reception will follow the presentation, and we hope you’ll join us for a warm and engaging evening together!

"A Safe & Sound Hospital Stay,” will be presented by Meredith Masel, PhD, MSW this Wednesday January 28th at 1:00PM as part of the UTMB Health Experts Series at the Osher Lifelong Learning Center (OLLI). The class outlines common hospital risks and offers practical tips, such as recording important conversations and using safety checklists, to help patients and families stay informed and actively support care. The class is open to OLLI members; visit the OLLI website for membership and registration details.

A new study supported in part by the NIA-funded Pepper Center at UTMB found that natural shifts in estrogen levels across the menstrual cycle do not impact short‑term muscle growth in women. Although some muscle‑building genes were more active when estrogen was higher, this did not translate into greater muscle protein production; instead, moderate links were observed with testosterone levels. These findings suggest that estrogen plays little role in immediate muscle‑building responses to exercise in women with regular menstrual cycles. Read the full study in the Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism.

The Texas Resource Center for Minority Aging Research (RCMAR), supported by the National Institute on Aging (Grant P30 AG059301), announces a call for applications for 1-year pilot project funding of up to $40,000 in direct costs. Led by the University of Texas Medical Branch and the University of Texas at San Antonio, in collaboration with UT Austin, this program supports junior and mid-career faculty conducting behavioral and social science research on health and aging in under-represented populations, with a particular emphasis on Hispanic communities in the U.S. and Latin America.

We’re proud to share that Dr. Monique R. Pappadis from the UTMB School of Public and Population Health has received a new award from the NIH’s National Institute on Aging. Her team will develop a practical, primary‑care–based program to help identify and address elder abuse among older adults living with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Join us for the next Pepper Investigators Lecture on "Recent Advances in Hispanic Aging Research: Depression, Frailty, and Health Paradoxes" with visiting scholar Diego Urrunaga-Pastor, MD. Dr. Urrunaga-Pastor will share insights from his research on aging in Hispanic populations, including the depressed-frail phenotype and the Healthy Immigrant Effect. Wednesday, Jan. 21, 12–1 PM at Rebecca Sealy 6.100 or via TEAMS (lunch provided in person).

Congratulations to Alice Williams, MS, LBSW, on completing Lifestyle Coaching Certification at UTMB last fall. This course equips coaches with the knowledge and understanding needed to effectively deliver the National Diabetes Prevention Program lifestyle change program (PreventT2®).

As we close out 2025, the Sealy Center on Aging celebrates a year of major milestones in research, education, and community engagement. Highlights include the successful renewal of our P30 Pepper Center, launch of the $5M Texas Age-Tech Initiative, continued growth of our training programs, and expanded outreach through health education, social media, and the Stories of Aging series. We also welcomed new team members and are looking ahead to an exciting 2026 with new programs, events, and research focused on improving the lives of older adults. Read more in this greeting from our Director.

Stories of Aging is a student-led oral history and portrait series supported by the Sealy Center on Aging at UTMB. In the second interview of the series, Rose Daniels, 83-year-old Galveston child advocate and community mentor, speaks with medical student Julián Escalante.

This 8-week summer intensive program is intended for medical students moving between year 1 and year 2 of training. Students enrolled in the MSTAR program benefit from an enriching experience in aging-related research and clinical geriatrics with the mentorship of top experts in the field. The long-term goal of the program is to increase the number of established clinicians and physician investigators who pursue research in high-priority areas related to aging.

The Sealy Center on Aging is proud to announce that Program Manager Lexi King, MS was selected as a recipient of the National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA) Region V Quinten S. Mathews Travel Award, a competitive regional honor that supports the professional growth of emerging research administrators. Lexi attended the 2025 NCURA Region V Fall Meeting in San Marcos, Texas, where she participated in workshops, networked with colleagues across the region, and expanded her expertise in research administration. Her selection reflects her dedication to strengthening research support services within our center and across UTMB.

Join us for a Texas RCMAR presentation online on December 16, 2025, at 3:00 PM. "Unpacking Healthcare Utilization and Outcomes for Older Adults with Diabetes and ADRD in the US-Mexico Border Region", is presented by: Alfonso Rojas-Alvarez, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of Texas at El Paso.

Stories of Aging is a student-led oral history and portrait series supported by the Sealy Center on Aging at UTMB Health. With inspiration drawn from Brandon Stanton's Humans of New York and oral history projects, this student-led initiative builds on SCOA’s historic Faces of Aging photography series by Marilyn Brodwick and more recent Community Connection engagement efforts. Read the first interview with Jerome Kunz, 92-year-old Galveston Shrimper and medical student Snehal Kumar.

The next Caregiver Connection Support Group meeting will take place in a hybrid format on December 12, 2025. It will be the last meeting of the year. Contact Alice Williams for details: alwillia@utmb.edu.

Hello world! The Sealy Center on Aging has lead aging care and research at UTMB Health since 1995. We are a multidisciplinary center dedicated to improving the health and well-being of older adults through research, education, clinical care, and community engagement. Supported by the Sealy & Smith Foundation, SCOA brings together experts from all five UTMB schools and multiple institutes to lead innovation in aging studies. We are excited to join Instagram, where we hope to connect with medical students, early career researchers, and the community as we celebrate older adults, amplify geriatric research, and showcase the human stories behind healthy aging.

Individuals living with brain injury or other chronic conditions bring a lifetime of experiences that shape how they cope and heal. These experiences and their environment are known as non-medical drivers of health and play a vital role in recovery and well-being. Developed by a subgroup from the Moody Galveston Conference including Dr. Monique Pappadis, this fact sheet helps healthcare providers take a more holistic approach to care by considering these broader factors. English and Spanish versions are available, with practical guidance and resources to support inclusive, person-centered care.

A video is now available online for the Pepper Investigators Lecture on October 22, 2025, "Using Technology to Keep Old People Out of Nursing Homes," presented by James S. Goodwin, MD, Co-Director, Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center; Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Geriatrics.

According to new research, long-term nursing home residents face significantly higher death rates when their facilities lose power or water during storms, compared with residents in facilities that remain fully operational. Texas recently approved funding to support backup power for critical facilities. In The Daily Yonder, Dr. Brian Downer and PhD student Alex Holland discuss what this investment could mean for nursing homes.

Heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of the 28th Annual Forum on Aging. This event provided a valuable platform for faculty, fellows, and students to showcase their ongoing research in aging, fostering collaboration and innovation within the UTMB community. Visit our website to view the program and photos from this year’s event.

What does it take to age well today? Join UTMB Health experts on brain health, aging research, nutrition and geriatric care as they share the latest insights, practical tips and resources for living longer and better on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at OLLI. Free & open to the public. OLLI membership not required. Register today!

Dr. Markides contributed to this article at Daily 27 in honor of the International Day of Older Persons on October 1, 2025. Many immigrants arrive in countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia healthier than the native-born population. But this “immigrant health advantage” often fades with time. By older age, immigrants face higher risks of chronic illness, disability, and cognitive decline—shaped by lifestyle changes, discrimination, and unequal access to care. Communities can help buffer these challenges, offering cultural and social support, though the benefits vary across countries. It is important to understand how aging, health, and caregiving intersect in these communities.

Join us for the next Data Management and Analysis Core (DMAC) for Comparative Effectiveness Research on Cancer in Texas (CERCIT) Seminar Series: "Challenges in Non-Inferiority Testing: Why It's Not Just a One-Sided Version of Superiority Testing," presented by Samiran Ghosh, Professor & Chair, Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, UT Health Houston.

Abstracts are due on October 3 for the Annual Forum on Aging. Join us at the HEC on October 16th, 4-6PM. The event provides a platform for faculty members, fellows, and students to share their ongoing aging research with the UTMB community. It is also an excellent opportunity for networking and learning about the research services offered by the Sealy Center on Aging. Each year, monetary awards are given for the best student and fellow posters.

The UTMB Center of Excellence for Professional Advancement and Research invites research faculty to the 4th Annual WE Summit on November 13, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 PM. The event aims to connect faculty with medical students for research collaboration and mentorship.

On Thursday, Sept 25, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UTMB will host a special session in the UTMB Experts Series, "Using Technology for Healthy Aging: Tools to Support Your Wellness & Independence." Leading UTMB researchers Melissa Morrow, Meredith Masel, and Elizabeth Lyons will share practical, easy-to-use tech tools designed to help older adults stay active, connected, and independent. This event is open to members of OLLI.

The National Institute on Aging has renewed funding for the UTMB Health Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center (OAIC) with a five-year, $6.5 million award, continuing support through August 2030. Since 2000, the Center has advanced research and training focused on improving independence for older adults living with chronic disabling conditions. Building on more than two decades of accomplishments—including training 41 scholars and publishing over 860 studies—the next funding cycle will emphasize reducing health disparities, expanding research on lifelong disabilities, increasing participation of underserved populations, and developing technology-enabled interventions. Through its interdisciplinary team and integrated research and education cores, the UTMB Health OAIC will continue to lead innovation in aging science and prepare the next generation of researchers dedicated to enhancing the health and independence of older adults.

Please join us for the next Pepper Investigators Lecture: "The 150-year-old (Wo)man: How soon? How desirable?" presented by Steven N. Austad PhD, Distinguished Professor, Co-Director UAB Nathan Shock Center on September 24, 2025 at noon in RSH 6.100 and via Teams. Lunch provided for those in person.

Galveston's only senior healthcare resource fair. FREE event for people age 55+ and family caregivers. Expert Speakers: Sandy Ard, Elder Law Attorney and Geriatrician Dr. Lee Grumbles. Free Health screenings, flu shots (with Medicare card), box lunch for seniors, musical entertainment with Juan Carlos, vendor fair and door prizes. Don't miss it!

Join us on October 16th for the 28th Annual Forum on Aging. The event provides a platform for faculty members, fellows, and students to share their ongoing aging research with the UTMB community. It is also an excellent opportunity for networking and learning about the research services offered by the Sealy Center on Aging. Each year, monetary awards are given for the best student and fellow posters. Stay tuned for a call for abstracts!

Congratulations to Dr. Hani Serag and Dr. Hanaa Sallam on their new publication. This study looked at the challenges faced by people with diabetes who receive care at St. Vincent’s House Clinic in Galveston, Texas, a place that serves many patients who don’t have a lot of resources. The goal was to understand what non-medical issues, like financial or emotional stress, might make it harder for them to manage their diabetes.

Students presented work in the Medical Student Training in Aging Research (MSTAR) program. Topics ranged from delirium prevention to dementia diagnosis and metabolic health. Award winners included Matthew Phan, Annika Nambiar, and Hamid Koroni. Congratulations to all!

A new study by Dr. Goodwin, Dr. Xu and colleagues finds that lifting federal visitation restrictions in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic did not lead to a significant increase in resident infection rates. Researchers analyzed data from over 6,000 nursing homes across 27 states using a difference-in-differences framework, comparing COVID-19 infection rates before and after the federal policy change on September 17, 2020. Results showed that infection trends in nursing homes largely followed patterns in their surrounding communities, with no statistically significant change linked to the end of the visitation ban.

Are you an adult age 60+? Do you want to take control of your health and live an active, fulfilling life? Look no further – The Patient Education Programs (PEP) are here to support you! Interested? Visit www.utmb.edu/diabetes or contact cdprogram@utmb.edu.

“Standard lab assays don’t capture the physical forces acting on blood inside constricted arteries,” UTMB Health’s Dr. Misbahud Din tells Dawn. The publication featured Din and Pepper Center Scholar Dr. Yunfeng Chen and their research into how physicians assess a patient’s risk of arterial blood clots.

A KFF Health News story on safety issues in rehab hospitals highlighted research by Dr. Chih-Ying Li, an aging research expert at UTMB Health. Her 2017 study found that for-profit rehab facilities were the only type linked to higher 30-day unplanned hospital readmissions among Medicare patients. Li noted the differences weren’t large, but the finding was consistent.

We are proud to announce that Dr. Abbey B. Berenson, MD, PhD, MMS, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement in Research Award, one of the highest honors presented through UTMB’s Faculty Excellence and Lifetime Achievement Awards.

Please join us for the next Pepper Investigators Lecture: "Stronger for Longer: The Interplay Between Lifestyle, Muscle Metabolism, and Successful Aging," presented by Andrew Murton, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Surgery on July 23, 2025 at noon in RSH 6.100 and via Teams. Lunch provided for those in person.

Elizabeth Huber recently joined the Sealy Center on Aging as a Senior Business Coordinator and will primarily be working with Lexi, Oscar, and Dr. Morrow on project coordination and ensuring smooth operations across the team. Elizabeth has been with UTMB for 13 years, most recently serving as a Medical Staff Interpreter. In that role, she supported a wide range of specialties and enjoyed building relationships with faculty and patients alike. She especially valued witnessing the professional growth of residents and the dynamic, behind-the-scenes nature of the work. Please join us in welcoming Elizabeth to the Sealy Center on Aging!

UTMB Health Pepper Center Pilot awardee and Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy Chih-Ying "Cynthia" Li, PhD, OTR has been named a fellow of the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine (ACRM). The Fellow of ACRM designation recognizes active members with an outstanding record of professional service to ACRM who have also made contributions of national significance to the field of medical rehabilitation. Congratulations, Dr. Li!

Neil K. Mehta, PhD, MSc, MA became inaugural Chair of the Department of Epidemiology in the UTMB School of Public & Population Health on July 1, 2025. Dr. Mehta joined UTMB in 2020 as a faculty member in the Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health. He joined the Department of Epidemiology when it was established as part of UTMB’s new School of Public and Population Health in 2022. A leader aging researcher, Dr. Mehta’s research centers on the demography and epidemiology of older adults, with a focus on trends in health, functioning, and mortality.

Dr. Ana Ayala Copete, WHO/PAHO scholar has been invited to participate as a speaker at the upcoming III Javerian Congress on Geriatrics: Work Summit on Ageing and Health, scheduled for August 28–29, 2025, at the Alfonso Quintana Auditorium of the Pontifical Xavierian University in Bogotá, Colombia.

UTMB Health is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Melissa (Missy) Morrow as Director of the Sealy Center on Aging. A renowned rehabilitation scientist and expert in aging and disability research, Dr. Morrow brings deep experience in translational science, biomechanics, and health technology. She currently serves as Co-Director of the NIA-funded Pepper Center at UTMB and will lead the center’s involvement in the new $5 million Healthy Aging and Technology (Age-Tech) Initiative. We thank Dr. Alan Landay for his exceptional service as interim director and look forward to the center’s continued growth under Dr. Morrow’s leadership.

At The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health), we’re exploring what it really means to age well, from your perspective. We're looking for people ages 20 and up to take part in a new research study focused on how people of all ages think about health, aging, and the future of care. You’ll have the chance to share your personal experiences, ideas, and hopes in a one-on-one interview or small group conversation, with no medical tests or treatments involved.

In a guest column for the Daily News, Dr. Jochen Reiser, president of UTMB and CEO of the UTMB Health System, wrote about the recently ended 89th Legislative Session in Austin and some of UTMB’s legislative wins. “At the University of Texas Medical Branch, we are thankful for these investments, both for the legislature’s vote of confidence for our Healthy Aging and Technology Initiative within our institution, and the broader establishment of the research institute, to fund competitive and thoughtful grants, for the betterment of all Texans,” Reiser writes.

Please join us for the next Pepper Investigators Lecture: "Pain and cognition among older adults across contexts," presented by Sadaf Milani, PhD, MPH, Assistant Professor, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public and Population Health on June 25, 2025 at noon in RSH 6.100 and via Teams. Lunch provided for those in person.

When Dr. Yong-Fang Kuo analyzed Medicare data from more than 2 million older adults, the results revealed a striking pattern: those who received annual wellness visits were significantly more likely to receive early diagnoses of mild cognitive impairment—catching memory problems before they progressed to full dementia.

Led by Dr. Neil K. Mehta, a professor in the Department of Epidemiology and associate dean for research for the School of Public and Population Health, the new center aims to become a nationally recognized leader in outcomes research by leveraging UTMB's exceptional data infrastructure and multidisciplinary expertise. As a university-wide center, it will create new opportunities for collaboration between clinical and research enterprises across UTMB.

The Department of Epidemiology hosted Dr. Neil Mehta for a compelling seminar in April, where he shared his research insights and perspectives on advancing epidemiological excellence at UTMB's School of Public and Population Health. "Why are some people healthy and others not?" This fundamental question, first encountered in a 1990s book on population health determinants, sparked Mehta's career trajectory. His fascination with life expectancy patterns led him to explore statistical regularities in human mortality across centuries.

In April 2025, researchers from UTMB Health’s Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center (OAIC) participated in the annual meeting hosted by the Coordinating Board of the Pepper Centers. Attendees included faculty across career stages who gave several notable presentations. The meeting provided a valuable platform for collaborative learning and mentorship.

Please join us for the next Pepper Investigators Lecture: "Impact of Error-Augmented Visual Feedback in Robotic Gait Rehabilitation Post-Stroke," presented by Mansoo Ko, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Health Professions on May 28, 2025 at noon in RSH 6.100 and via Teams. Lunch provided for those in person.

Join us for the next Texas RCMAR presentation on May 272, 2025. "Negotiating Personhood in Home-Based Dementia Care: Exploring Ethnographic Methodologies in Dementia Research", is presented by: Micaela Bermea, Doctoral Candidate, UTSA, at 3 PM via Zoom.

Annual Wellness Visits for People with Dementia: A National Study at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. Caregivers and health care providers are needed to participate an interview to help us improve the healthcare services provided to individuals with dementia.

UTMB Health has launched the Center for Health and Clinical Outcomes Research, a university-level initiative led by Dr. Neil K. Mehta, professor of epidemiology and associate dean for research in the UTMB School of Public & Population Health. The center will advance outcomes research by uniting clinical and academic departments and leveraging UTMB’s data infrastructure to improve health care and population health.

Are you a stroke survivor still having trouble walking? We’re exploring whether a safe, non-invasive form of brain stimulation—called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)—can help stroke survivors improve walking ability.

Findings are now available from the October 2024 National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) workshop, "Approaches to Address Unmet Research Needs in Traumatic Brain Injury Among Older Adults." This important event gathered experts to explore the research gaps and clinical challenges of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in adults aged 65 and older.

Dr. Monique Pappadis and colleagues have been actively contributing to the Post-TBI AD/ADRD Committee as part of the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Summit. The next session, titled "SESSION 8: Research to Improve Outcomes for Representative Populations at Risk and Living with Alzheimer's Disease and Alzheimer's Disease-Related Dementias", will be held on June 2nd. Register and view the full agenda.

At Northwestern University's Pepper Center Grand Rounds, Dr. Brian Downer delivered a powerful warning: nursing home residents are among the most vulnerable to the effects of extreme weather events and nursing homes need more resources to keep residents safe. His presentation, "Climate, Environment, and Vulnerable Populations: Natural Disasters and Their Effects on Nursing Home Residents," revealed critical findings about this overlooked public health crisis.

A video is now available online for the Pepper Investigators Lecture on April 30, 2025, "Navigating Turbulent Waters: Leveraging Artificial and Real Intelligence Tools," presented by Kimberly A. Skarupski, PhD, MPH, Associate Vice Provost, Leadership Development; Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, Divisions of Geriatrics, John Sealy School of Medicine; Professor, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public and Population Health.

The School of Public and Population Health (SPPH) at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) recently hosted representatives from the National Council on Aging (NCOA), funding agency behind the UTMB Chronic Diseases Prevention & Self-Management Programs, providing evidence-based chronic disease management programs for older adults.

A newly published study by Neil Mehta and Octavio Bramajo offers fresh insights into a critical public health concern: why Americans live shorter lives compared to people in other wealthy nations. Their research investigates how deaths from cardiovascular disease (CVD) contribute to the growing life expectancy disparity between the United States and its economic peers between 2008 and 2019.

Register for the Alzheimer’s Association UTMB Student Symposium at UTMB on April 28, 2025. This event is an excellent opportunity for insights from community members, networking, and a platform for students to present research about aging populations through a poster session.

Join us for the next Texas RCMAR presentation on April 22, 2025. "Charting Your Funding Journey: Grants, Opportunities, and Institutional Resources", is presented by: Toyin Babarinde, PhD, Executive Director of Research Development, Office of Strategic Research Development, at 3 PM via Zoom.

A recent article by Dr. Masel and colleagues, published in Age and Ageing, explores the benefits and challenges of using visit recordings to improve communication with older adults.

A recent study by Dr. Elizabeth Vaughan and colleagues, titled, "Exploring Age-Related HbA1c Variations in CHW-Led Programs," has been selected as a late-breaking abstract for presentation at the American Diabetes Association's (ADA) 85th Scientific Sessions. The event will be held June 20-23, 2025, at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, Illinois.

The Dementia Care Study (D-CARE study), the largest pragmatic trial on dementia care, looked at different ways to care for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. The study found that there were no big differences in the behavior of patients or how stressed caregivers felt, whether the care was given through a health system, a community organization, or regular care over 18 months. However, the study also found that caregivers felt more confident in handling challenges related to dementia and getting the support they need when they received care through the health system or community organizations.

Join us for the Data Management and Analysis Core (DMAC) for Comparative Effectiveness Research on Cancer in Texas (CERCIT) Seminar Series: "Deep Learning Approach to Nonparametric Propensity Score Estimation with Optimized Covariate Balance," is presented by Maosen Peng, MD Anderson

Please join us for the next Pepper Investigators Lecture: "Navigating Turbulent Waters: Leveraging Artificial and Real Intelligence Tools," presented by Kimberly A. Skarupski, PhD, MPH, Associate Vice Provost, Leadership Development; Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, Divisions of Geriatrics, John Sealy School of Medicine; Professor, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public and Population Health on April 30, 2025 at noon in RSH 6.100 and via Teams. Lunch provided for those in person.

Where a person lives can influence their recovery from a traumatic brain injury, according to a new study by UTMB’s Dr. Monique Pappadis and a team of researchers. “The intricate relationship between healthcare access and community socioeconomic factors necessitates sophisticated strategies to increase equity,” the research team concluded.

A new study highlights the success of a training program designed to improve diabetes care in community clinics. Led by researchers at The University of Texas Medical Branch, including SCOA Fellows Drs. Vaughan and Raji, the study represents an important step toward improving diabetes care in underserved communities, providing clinicians with the tools to deliver high-quality care in resource-limited settings.

Join us for the next Center for Health Promotion, Performance and Rehabilitation Research (CHPPRR) Lecture on March 20, 2025. "Ramp Up Your Research in 2025 - Strategies to Keep Momentum in Uncertain Times", is presented by Dr. Melissa Morrow and Dr. Carole Tucker at 1 PM in person at Marie Hall, 4th floor, SHP or via TEAMS.

The Center for Excellence Consortium (COEC) will host an Annual Faculty Development Conference on April 25, 2025 featuring keynote speaker John Paul Sánchez, MD, MPH. Register today and download the schedule of events.

In honor of Women's History Month and International Women's Day 2025, we celebrate the strength, wisdom, and courage of the women who inspire us. This year, we recognize Alice Williams, MS, LBSW, Manager of Communications & Community Initiatives at the Sealy Center on Aging, as our Phenomenal Woman. Alice has dedicated her career to supporting older adults and caregivers. She has been an active volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Association for over 20 years. Alice's passion for aging care and research was inspired by her grandparents, who exemplified lifelong learning and compassion. Let’s take a moment this month to acknowledge the incredible women in our lives who inspire us!

The Internal Medicine Lecture Series will be held on Thursday, March 6, at 12:15 PM in the Primary Care Pavilion Conference Room 2.268. The topic is "Medication Deprescribing: Practical Strategies to Changing or Stopping Medications in Older Adults," presented by Dr. Mukaila Raji, a Professor in Geriatric Medicine. Lunch will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis, and a Teams option is available.

A video is now available online for the Pepper Investigators Lecture on February 26, 2025, "Using task mechanics to drive preferred locomotor control strategies post-stroke," presented by David Brown, PT, PhD. Visit the Pepper Investigator's Lecture page to view the video.

The Texas Resource Center for Minority Aging Research (RCMAR), supported by the National Institute on Aging (Grant P30 AG059301), invites applications for 1-year pilot project funding. This initiative, led by the University of Texas Medical Branch and UT San Antonio, focuses on advancing research and researchers studying health and aging in under-represented populations, particularly Hispanic communities in the U.S. and Latin America.

The Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Women's Health is currently accepting applications for its NIH-funded K12 faculty training program, “Building Interdisciplinary Research Careers in Women’s Health”. This 2-year program, currently in it's 20th consecutive year of NIH funding, allows scholars to devote 75% effort towards conducting research in women’s health or sex differences and annually provides scholars up to $100,000 in salary support and up to $50,000 for research expenditures. New appointments in the program will become available beginning May 1, 2025.

Join us for the next Texas RCMAR presentation on Feb 25, 2025. "The state of the science in recruiting minority populations for biomarker ADRD clinical trials: Our progress and future directions", is presented by: Patricia Garcia, Psy.D. HSPP, at 3 PM via zoom.

Dr. Graves has been named the recipient of the Academy of Spinal Cord Injury Professionals (ASCIP) 2025 Audrey Nelson Lectureship Award. This prestigious recognition reflects her exceptional contributions to the field. She was nominated by Dr. Kristi Henzel for leadership in the development of the International Spinal Cord Society (ISCoS) Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Nursing Massive Ooen Online Course (MOOC) and research exploring the roles of genetics and epigenetics on the development of complications after SCI.

Dr. Polychronopoulou will present, "Introduction to MarketScan Data: A Beginner's Guide," in a webinar hosted by UTMB Department of Biostatistics & Data Science on February 27, 2025 at noon. Register in advance for the Zoom webinar.

Dr. Downer will present, "Climate, Environment, and Vulnerable Populations: Natural Disasters and their Effects on Nursing Home Residents," in Pepper Center Rounds hosted by Northwestern Pepper Center on February 21, 2025 at noon. Register in advance for the Zoom meeting.

The “Physical Rehabilitation for Older Patients with Acute Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (REHAB-HFpEF)” trial at UTMB is being conducted with qualified patients admitted to UTMB Clear Lake or Galveston hospitals.This study examines whether a new type of physical rehabilitation can help improve health outcomes for patients with heart failure.

The Sealy Center on Aging hosted an aging retreat on February 5, 2025 at Open Gates. Leaders from across the university were invited to attend. The goal of the retreat was to set priorities for research, discover new opportunities for collaboration, and highlight the exceptional work that has been done throughout the history of the center. Thanks to all attendees.

Join the Sealy Center on Aging on BlueSky to connect with us about aging research from UTMB Health, including funding, new grants, researcher highlights, important findings, and more. Students, trainees, and early career researchers are invited to follow us for announcements and opportunities!

A video is now available online for the Special Lecture on February 3, 2025, "Deciding How Human Viruses Shape Aging," presented by Michael J. Corley, MA, PhD Assistant Professor, Tenure Track Department of Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases Weill Cornell Medicine. Visit the SCOA website to view the video.

A video is now available online for the Texas RCMAR Lecture on January 28, 2025, "Mixed-Methods Research: Strategically Integrating Words and Numerical Data to Gain a Richer Understanding," presented by Monique R. Pappadis, MEd, PhD. Visit the Texas RCMAR website to view the video.

Join us for a special lecture hosted by the Sealy Center on Aging on February 3rd at noon. Dr. Michael J. Corley, MA, PhD, from the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases at Weill Cornell Medicine, will present 'Deciding How Human Viruses Shape Aging.' This event will be held in a hybrid format, in RSH 6.100 and on Zoom.

A video is now available online for the DMAC CERCIT Lecture on January 28, 2025, "HIV & Cancer - Utilizing Large Population Databases to Address Outcome Disparities," presented by Elizabeth Chiao, Professor, MD Anderson, Department of Epidemiology. Visit the DMAC CERCIT website to view the video.

A video is now available online for the Texas RCMAR Lecture on December 17, 2024, "Sample Size Justification for Pilot Studies," presented by Xiaoying Yu, PhD. Visit the Texas RCMAR website to view the video.

A recent study by Huey-Ming Tzeng, PhD, and co-authors at UTMB Health found that receiving a Medicare annual wellness visit (AWV) was associated with greater recognition of mild cognitive impairment in older adults. "This study suggests that the Medicare AWV health policy may increase mild cognitive impairment identification, prompting more specialized care," Tzeng and colleagues said. "Early recognition of cognitive impairment is key to optimal dementia care," the researchers noted. "Patient access to dementia assessment often limits timely diagnosis of cognitive impairment."

Dr. Neil Mehta and Dr. Huiwen Xu, former UTMB Pepper Center Scholars, received new external research funding in aging in 2024. Dr. Mehta was awarded a five-year NIH/NIA grant to study immigrant mortality trends in the U.S., while Dr. Xu received a four-year NIH/NIA grant to examine racial and ethnic disparities in Alzheimer’s care within nursing homes. Both researchers continue to make significant contributions to the field of aging and health.

Join us for the next Texas RCMAR presentation on Jan 28, 2025. "Mixed-Methods Research: Strategically Integrating Words and Numerical Data to Gain a Richer Understanding," is presented by Monique R. Pappadis, MEd, PhD, at 3 PM via zoom.

The Medical Student Training in Aging Research (MSTAR) program encourages medical students, particularly budding researchers, to consider a career in academic geriatrics by awarding short-term scholarships. Applications are due February 21, 2025.

A video is now available online for the Pepper Investigators Lecture on January 21, 2025, "Alterations in the GH/IGF-1 Axis and Gut Microbiome After Traumatic Brain Injury by Randall J. Urban, MD," presented by Randall J. Urban, MD. Visit the Pepper Investigator's Lecture page to view the video.

A heartfelt thank you to all who participated in the 2024 Medical Students Training in Aging Research (MSTAR) program. Meet the MSTAR Scholars and learn about their projects.

In a new study, Dr. Yunfeng Chen and his team at the University of Texas Medical Branch are exploring how a better understanding of how blood reacts under physical forces could help doctors assess a patient's risk for dangerous blood clots. The researchers created a small device that mimics narrowed arteries, which could help identify who’s most at risk for arterial thrombosis, a condition where blood clots form in the arteries and contribute to heart disease and stroke. Their findings could lead to better diagnoses and treatments for cardiovascular diseases. Learn more and watch a video interview by Dr. Chen at UTMB News. Read the article in Nature, Multi-parametric thrombus profiling microfluidics detects intensified biomechanical thrombogenesis associated with hypertension and aging.

Researchers—including Sealy Center on Aging Fellows Drs. Yu, Kuo, Raji, and Berenson—have published a study examining trends in antiretroviral therapy (ART) prescriptions for Medicare beneficiaries with HIV.

Join us for the Data Management and Analysis Core (DMAC) for Comparative Effectiveness Research on Cancer in Texas (CERCIT) Seminar Series: "HIV & Cancer - Utilizing Large Population Databases to Address Outcome Disparities," presented by Elizabeth Chiao, MD, PhD.

Dr. Graves has been named the FY25 recipient of the prestigious Beverly and F.A. (Andy) Odom Endowment for Nursing Research Award. This distinguished award will support her Pepper Scholar research project, which focuses on advanced aging in individuals with spinal cord injuries. The Beverly and Andy Odom Endowment for Nursing Research provides essential funding to outstanding faculty in the School of Nursing, fostering innovative research that advances the field of nursing.

A new article by Dr. Masel, Dr. Goodwin, Isamar Ortiz, and Dr. Raji has been published in Patient Education and Counseling detailing the “AUDIO” Pilot Trial. This study tested how audio recordings of primary care visits could enhance self-management among older adults with chronic conditions.

Join us for the next Texas RCMAR presentation on Dec 17, 2024. "Sample Size Justification for Pilot Studies," is presented by Xiaoying Yu, PhD, at 3 PM via zoom.

The Texas Resource Center for Minority Aging Research (RCMAR), supported by the National Institute on Aging (Grant P30 AG059301), invites applications for 1-year pilot project funding. This initiative, led by the University of Texas Medical Branch and UT San Antonio, focuses on advancing research and researchers studying health and aging in under-represented populations, particularly Hispanic communities in the U.S. and Latin America.

We are pleased to invite you to the Pathways in Aging, Geriatric and Palliative Medicine Symposium, taking place on the UTMB-Galveston Main Campus, on Wednesday, January 29. Learners of all levels are invited to learn about opportunities available through The University of Texas- Medical Branch & Weill Cornell Medicine Partnership.

Read the latest issue of the Sealy Center on Aging Community Connection Newsletter, including a highlight featuring Dr Downer, research news about blood sugar, information about participating in aging research, current community activities, and more.

The GSA 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting, the premier annual scientific meeting for cutting-edge scholarship, research, and networking relating to the fields of aging and gerontology, is November 13 -16, 2024 in Seattle, WA. Attendees from UTMB include several postdoctoral trainees, students, staff, and faculty. Visit our website for a list of presenters and topics.

Join us for the next Texas RCMAR presentation on Nov 19, 2024. "Healthcare Preferences of Older Hispanic Residents in Texas," is presented by Stephen Pan, PhD, at 3 PM via zoom.

Join us for the Data Management and Analysis Core (DMAC) for Comparative Effectiveness Research on Cancer in Texas (CERCIT) Seminar Series: "Enhanced Cancer Research Outcomes Through UTMB's EHR Data Integration," presented by Jiefei Wang, PhD.

A video is now available online for the Pepper Investigators Lecture on October 23, 2024, "Analysis of Texas Medicare Claims Data to Evaluate for Disparities in Access to the Medicare Hospice Benefit for Cohorts of Patients with Serious Mental Illness," presented by Sean O'Mahony, MB BCH BAO, MS. Visit the Pepper Investigator's Lecture page to view the video.

A video is now available online for the Pepper Investigators Lecture on September 24, 2024, "Inflammation, Where are we now?," presented by Alan Landay, PhD. Visit the Pepper Investigator's Lecture page to view the video.

Join us for the third annual WE Summit on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM at the HEC, 3rd floor. This event focuses on networking and connecting medical students with faculty researchers while celebrating our collective achievements.

Please join us for the next Pepper Investigators Lecture: "Analysis of Texas Medicare Claims Data to Evaluate for Disparities in Access to the Medicare Hospice Benefit for Cohorts of Patients with Serious Mental Illness," presented by Sean O’Mahony, MD, BCH, BAO, on Weds, Oct 23, 2024 at noon in RSH 6.100 and via Zoom. Lunch provided for those in person.

The UTMB Center of Excellence for Professional Advancement and Research and the UTMB Institute for Translational Sciences funded by the Clinical and Translational Science Award (UL1TR001439) present: Research Ethics Workshop "I Found it Online": Ethical Considerations for Research that Utilizes Social Media on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, HEC 3.200.

Join us for the next Texas RCMAR Scholar presentation on Oct 22, 2024. "Mentorship Matters: Cultivating Relationships that Inspire and Transform," is presented by Celeste Finnerty, PhD, at 3 PM via zoom.

The 27th Annual Forum on Aging was a huge success with more than 100 posters submitted. Monetary awards were given for the best student and fellow posters, sponsored by the Sealy Center on Aging and the Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Women’s Health. New this year, a top student was awarded with the inaugural James S. Goodwin Distinguished Professor Award. Congratulations to our winners and thanks to all participants.

Thanks to Stephanie Fitzgerald with the Alzheimer's Association: Houston & Southeast Texas Chapter and Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UTMB for hosting a "Flower Flocking" on Oct 11 in preparation for the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, Oct 19 at Stewart Beach in Galveston. Please join or donate to the UTMB Internal Medicine/Sealy Center on Aging Walk to End Alzheimer’s team.

The Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Women's Health (CIRWH), The Center for Health Promotion, Performance, and Rehabilitation Research (CHPPRR, pronounced ‘Chipper’), and The Sealy Center on Aging (SCOA) encourage UTMB investigators to submit pilot research proposals for translational research focused on Women’s Health. All application materials should be placed in a single PDF document and emailed to: Judi Linton, PT, MS, jllinton@utmb.edu .

Please join us for the next Pepper Investigators Lecture: "Inflammation: Where are we now?," presented by Alan L. Landay, PhD, on Weds, Sept 25, 2024 at noon in RSH 6.100 and via Zoom. Lunch provided for those in person.

SCOA welcomes Emmy as a new Clinical Coordinator working with Dr. Meredith Masel. Previously she worked at UTMB in 2018 as a scribe, then as a Research Coordinator with Baylor College of Medicine and Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Hospital. She received her Associate's degree at Galveston College and a BS in Biology at UHCL. Welcome, Emmy!

SCOA welcomes Joey as a new T32 Postdoctoral Scholar working with Dr. Brian Downer. His research focuses on the health of older adults, with a specific emphasis on Hispanic aging. He also collaborates with Dr. Elizabeth Lyons on mobile health (m-Health) interventions aimed at increasing physical activity in aging populations, guided by behavioral change theory. Welcome, Joey!

Read the latest issue of the Sealy Center on Aging Community Connection Newsletter, including a highlight featuring Drs Sallam and Serag, research news, information about participating in aging research, current community events, and more.

“These findings suggest that bilingualism, especially the balanced use of two languages, provides a cognitive advantage in older age,” said Dr. Brian Downer, the lead author of the study and Associate Professor at the Department of Population Health & Health Disparities at UTMB.

Join us for a workshop,"Research Ethics - How to Submit to the IRB" presented by Elise Smith, PhD Assistant Professor in Bioethics & Health Humanities, on September 25th at noon in HEC 3.200.

Dr. Alan Landay, PhD, will present a webinar on September 25th at 10:00 AM, hosted by Dr. Shanti Singh-Anthony, MD, PhD, and the Pan Caribbean Partnership Against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP). Register today for "Understanding Biologic Aging and Non-communicable Diseases in HIV."