Publications

The Center for Optimal Aging has various faculty working on different research. The research done by members has been published in a wide range of journals. The publications are listed in the subpages.

Newly Launched Publication

Vitamin D and Brain Health in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease

Publications

Vitamin D which is essential for both bodily and cognitive functions plays a pivotal role in maintaining overall health. Lack of sufficient vitamin D levels can lead to various health issues. Older individuals, those who are overweight, and residents of nursing homes or hospitals are more prone to low vitamin D levels. Furthermore, individuals with Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) often exhibit lower vitamin D levels compared to individuals without these conditions. The authors of this informational resource offer science-backed insights into the significance of vitamin D for brain health, particularly for AD and PD. They also provide guides on how to maintain optimal vitamin D levels.

Click here to view the article.

Older adult falls in the community: Does an unsafe home environment have a risk role through the mediating effect of functional limitations?

PublicationsOlder adults’ falls due to hazardous home environments are a common occurrence. However, the existing literature offers mixed findings on whether it is the mere presence or absence of such conditions, or the interaction between these conditions and an individual’s physical functioning, that is most relevant. To address this uncertainty, the authors conducted an assessment to determine whether an unsafe home environment is linked to an increased risk of falls among older adults. Additionally, they explored the extent to which limitations in daily and instrumental activities of daily living (ADL/IADL) mediate this association.

Click here to view the article.

THE (IN)VISIBLE BRAZILIANS: A PERSPECTIVE REVIEW ON THE NEED FOR BRAIN HEALTH AND DEMENTIA RESEARCH WITH BRAZILIAN IMMIGRANTS IN THE UNITED STATES

PublicationsThis article lists recommendations for researchers, health providers, and policymakers to promote greater inclusion of U.S. Brazilian populations in health research and care. It identifies the following research areas in need of attention to address health inequities and promote mental/brain health in Brazilian immigrants and their offspring living in the U.S:

  • Epidemiological studies to map the prevalence and incidence of mental/brain health conditions;
  • Research on aging and AD/ADRD risk factors among Brazilian populations in the U.S.; and
  • The need for greater representation of the U.S.-residing Brazilian population in research areas involving genetics, neuropathology, and clinical trials.

Click here to read the full article.