Research
Research is critical to better understanding issues pertaining to older adults and their impact on society. The Center is dedicated to actively conducting and supporting research that will grow our understanding and be impactful for generations to come.
Featured research
CareEx: Extended Family Caregivers of Persons with Dementia
CareEx is a research project funded by the National Institute on Aging that aims to understand the experiences of grandchildren, siblings, nieces/nephews, and step-family caregivers of relatives with dementia. CareEx uses telephone interviews to learn about family caregivers and their service use, needs and challenges. The findings of this project will be used to develop more effective services and programs to support family caregivers and enhance the quality of life of persons with dementia.
Project Leaders: Karen Roberto Ph.D., Tina Savla Ph.D.
An Examination of the Aging Life Care Association
The purpose of this project is to explore the usefulness/benefits of Aging Life Care Association (ALCA) membership from its members and to understand how ALCA members assist the individuals whom ALCA members serve. The project consisted of interveiwng both members and clients and developing a nationally surveys for each. The project has been presented to ALCA members and The Geronotological Society of America.
Project Leaders: Carlisle Shealy, Ph.D, MPH; Pamela B. Teaster, Ph.D., M.A., M.S.
Environmental Scan of Guardianship Abuse and Fraud
This project involved a four-part environmental scan of the issues of abuse by guardians and systemic guardianship abuse, requested in 2021 by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ). Part 1 was an extensive literature review. Part 2 examined how states collect data on adult guardianship. Part 3 highlighted difficulties in determining the number of adults with guardians as well as the prevalence of abuse by guardians. Building on this research, the authors recommended federal actions to help states detect and address abuse.
Project Leaders: Pamela B. Teaster, Ph.D., M.A.; M.S., Carlisle Shealy, Ph.D, MPH; Erica Wood; Sally B. Hurme
Virginia Lifespan Respite Voucher Program
The purpose of this project is to provide respite care to eligible caregivers who would benefit from taking time off from caregiving. As the project evaluator, Dr. Sands analyzes application and yearly questionnaire data to inform the reasons caregivers need respite care, such as taking time to address their physical and/or mental health needs as well taking time caring other family members. The data also informs the location and type of respite care that is being provided. Other data provide insights into which diagnoses and combinations of diagnoses increase the caregivers’ workloads. Findings from this study will inform the need and benefits of respite care and the development of programming that support caregivers.
Funded by The Virginia Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services and The Department of Health and Human Services.
In progress
Project Leader: Laura Sands, Ph.D.
PROS: Performances to Reduce Online Scams
The goal of the "Performances to Reduce Online Scams (PROS)" project is to collect data directly from older adults and offer them targeted assistance in the form of an interactive theater play that educates the audience on techniques to prevent online scams.
Project Leadership: Katalin Parti, Pamela Teaster, Susanna Rinehart, Mason Rosenthal, Charles Dye