School of Aging Studies faculty and students recently attended the Florida Conference on Aging. They presented their research on using music to reduce agitation in assisted living residents with dementia, the potential of social engagement to prevent cognitive decline after stroke, hearing loss and cognitive decline, and increasing disaster preparedness among caregivers.
Tanjina Jalil, MA, manager of the USF Positive Aging Lab, presented her research, "Music, Social Engagement, and Recruitment Challenges in Group Music Intervention," which explores the powerful relationship between music and dementia, emphasizing its role in social engagement. Her research aims to investigate whether group music interventions can reduce agitation in dementia patients. Jalil also addressed the challenges of recruiting assisted living facilities in the current high-turnover environment, discussing strategies to integrate the study while minimizing strain on staff.
Doctoral candidate Joanne Elayoubi, MA, presented her research on the protective benefits of social relationships on episodic memory, depressive symptoms, and physical function for older adults who have had a stroke. She also addressed the negative health impacts of social isolation and loneliness and spoke about ways we can advance social connectedness in the community.
Nasreen Sadeq presents her research.
Assistant Professor of Instruction Nasreen Sadeq, PhD, presented her recent findings about the relationship between hearing loss and cognition, which recommends that routine hearing screenings and better access to hearing aids can substantially improve quality of life.
Research Assistant Professor Lindsay Peterson, PhD, presented her research on disaster preparedness. Peterson is developing a computer-based tool to assist caregivers in disaster preparedness, which conference attendees were invited to try.
Conference attendees could also visit the school's booth to learn more about its research and academic programs, pick up some freebies, and participate in a raffle.