Overview
1) Epidemiological studies to examine the prevalence and incidence of dementia and cognitive impairment, not dementia (CIND)
2) Studies examining risk and protective factors for dementia and CIND
3) Behavioral genetics of aging and dementia with an emphasis on twin studies
4) Long term outcomes of traumatic brain injury
5) Oral health and cognition in later life
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
·
2021 - Present
Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Behavioral Medicine & Neurosciences,
Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences
Professor of Neurology
·
2020 - Present
Neurology, Behavioral Neurology,
Neurology
Faculty Network Member of the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences
·
2014 - Present
Duke Institute for Brain Sciences,
University Institutes and Centers
Recent Publications
Genetic and environmental influences on alcohol consumption in middle to late life.
Journal Article Psychology of addictive behaviors : journal of the Society of Psychologists in Addictive Behaviors · November 2025 ObjectiveAlcohol use is common in older adults and linked to poor health and aging outcomes. Studies have demonstrated genetic and environmental contributions to the quantity of alcohol consumption in mid-to-late life, but less is known about whet ... Full text CiteQuality-of-life factors at home and in health care settings for people living with dementia.
Journal Article Gerontologist · October 22, 2025 BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Person-centered "home time" measures track time spent in health care versus home using claims data. These measures can indicate patient preferences, quality of care, or quality of life. However, for people living with dementia, t ... Full text Link to item CiteInsights from recruiting individuals with mild dementia and care partners for a multi-site oral hygiene intervention
Journal Article Aging and Health Research · September 1, 2025 Background: Maintaining oral health is essential for individuals with dementia, yet they often need support. We sought to identify insights gained during the recruitment process for an intervention designed to teach care partners skills to guide individual ... Full text CiteRecent Grants
Pesticide Use and Markers of ADRD Neurodegeneration among US Farmers
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Michigan State University · 2025 - 2030National Health and Aging Trends Study
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Johns Hopkins University · 2019 - 2029Improving the lives of persons living with dementia and their families through person-centered measurement of home time
ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by National Institute on Aging · 2021 - 2027View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
University of Arizona ·
1986
Ph.D.