Healthy Aging and Geriatric Studies
According to the CDC, the population of older Americans is growing exponentially—10,000 people now turn 65 each day, with the trend expected to continue through 2030. Within this population, the CDC estimates that approximately 73% have at least one chronic health condition, including, but not limited to, hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, and dementia. Along with chronic conditions, the CDC also reports that one in three older adults have limitations in completing daily activities of living ( https://www.cdc.gov/grand-rounds/pp/2017/20170919-senior-aging.html).
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Healthy People 2030 plan for older adults focuses on reducing health problems and improving their quality of life. Key objectives include increasing the proportion of older adults with cognitive or physical impairments who get physical activity, reducing the rates of hospital admissions for older adults with specific chronic health conditions, ensuring older adults get adequate preventive care, and reducing emergency department visits and deaths due to falls among the elderly (Healthy People 2030 - Older Adults).
Faculty researchers in the College of Health Sciences conducting studies in healthy aging and geriatrics are contributing to the body of knowledge within the priority areas defined in the Healthy People 2030 plan, and have many specializations, including: aging and physical activity; aging in place; falls prevention; health literacy and quality of life in older adults; mental health; and self-care and well-being in the aging population
CHS Leaders in Healthy Aging and Geriatric Studies
Dr. Cecilia Fierro, MOT
Clinical Assoc. Professor of Occupational Therapy
cfierro6@utep.edu
Specialization: Mental health in aging; aging in place; quality of life, self-care and physical well-being in the aging population
Communities of Practice: Aging, Health-Focused Interprofessional Education, Mental and Emotional Well-Being
Dr. Bruce Friedman
Professor of Social Work
bdfriedman@utep.edu
Specialization: Geriatric rehabilitation (substance use disorder); senior exercise and nutrition; aging and mental health; elderly abuse case review and prevention
Dr. Gabriel Ibarra-Mejia
Associate Professor of Public Health
gabmejia@utep.edu
Specialization: Aging workforce; re-design and accommodations for aging workers to promote a healthy environment
Communities of Practice: Aging, UTEP Community Engagement and Research in COVID-19
Dr. Patricia Lara
Clinical Associate Professor of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences
plara2@utep.edu
Specialization: Recovery after stroke in the elderly population; health literacy and quality of life for older adults
Communities of Practice: Aging, Health-Focused Interprofessional Education
