Our Research
Decision Making in Older Age
Older adults are often faced with important decisions in financial and health matters, and these decisions often have significant consequences on independence and wellbeing in old age. In collaboration with the Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center in Chicago, this program of research strives to understand why some older adults may make less optimal choices by taking a neuroeconomics approach and considering cognition function.
The Apolipoprotein E Antagonistic Pleiotropy Hypothesis
Possession of an apolipoprotein E epsilon 4 allele is one of the strongest genetic markers for Alzheimer's disease. This program of research strives to understand how this genetic marker might be associated with cognitive abilities across the lifespan.
Race and Health Disparities in Cognition and Decision Making
Most work focused on cognition and decision making in old age has focused on primarily White participants. This program of research strives to investigate whether race and health disparities exist, and if so, what the mediating and moderating factors are that could be potentially intervened upon to reduce these disparities.
Development of New Neuropsychology Tools
New tools to assess different aspects of cognition are needed in medical clinics. This program of research is devoted to the development of new assessment tools, with particular interests in utilizing technology in innovative ways.
Ending Elder Abuse and Mistreatment
Abuse and mistreatment among older adults is a significant social justice and public health issue. This new program of research strives to find ways to end and prevent elder abuse and mistreatment.