Research

Recognizing the field of aging research is rapidly evolving, driven by demographic shifts and a growing understanding of the complexities surrounding aging populations, CEAL established the Regional Aging Research Network (RARN).

Provide networking opportunities for multidisciplinary research efforts. Collaborate with community stakeholders to design and implement applied research partnerships. Provide and refer to funding mechanisms and grant resources. Host professional conferences and events on aging research and policy. Increase aging related learning opportunities for students and faculty fellows Create an online database of local researchers and their areas of aging research.

Guiding Values

– Involve community and other stakeholders to address relevant community issues impacting the aging population.
– Emphasis on diversity and the needs of underserved populations.
– Engage students and faculty through thesis and dissertation work, intergenerational opportunities, and career development.
– Forward thinking innovation using technology to address social isolation and support aging in place.
– Focus on quality of life, sense of purpose, and resilience. 

Challenges

Complexity of Aging: The multifaceted nature of aging requires interdisciplinary collaboration to address the medical, psychological, social, and economic dimensions effectively.

Data and Ethics: Handling vast amounts of data while ensuring privacy and ethical considerations is a challenge in aging research, particularly with sensitive health information.

Translation to Practice: Bridging the gap between research findings and practical applications in healthcare, policy, and community settings.

Inclusivity: Ensuring research includes diverse older populations, representing various ethnicities, socioeconomic backgrounds, and health status is essential for comprehensive insights.

Policy Alignment: Aligning research findings with policies that support healthy aging and address the needs of older adults requires effective communication between researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders.

Priority Areas for Research. 1. Social Isolation/Loneliness 2. Age-Friendly Community Building 3. Caregiver Support 4. Mental Health 5. Equity in Aging

Opportunities

RARN is proud to announce a call for Pilot Research Awards. Up to 5 Pilot Research Awards will be funded through one-year competitive awards (up to $10,000) to provide support for early stage projects that can lead to larger extramural funding.

Click here to view the Q&A session held on Friday, February 16.

The submission deadline is Friday, March 15th, 2024 @ 5:00 P.M. (PST). Click here (pdf) for more information.

RARN Chairs

Stephanie Ries

Dr. Stephanie Ries
SDSU

Catherine Ayers

Dr. Catherine Ayers
UC San Diego

Brent Wakefield

Brent Wakefield
CEO, Meals on Wheels

For more information on RARN, contact mmatter@sdsu.edu.