The Institute for Health & Aging (IHA) is driven by a commitment to equity, collaboration and the pursuit of meaningful change. In addition to our seven core focus areas, our approach includes three foundational pillars: health equity and social determinants of health, human-centered design and community-based participatory research.
IHA is dedicated to advancing women’s health globally and locally through research and interventions focused on reproductive health and justice, HIV prevention and the reduction of systemic health disparities. IHA aims to empower women’s decision-making, improve service delivery and address the unique health challenges faced by women.
IHA’s Aging and Life Course portfolio includes projects that enhance caregiving, access to services and culturally relevant support for older adults, particularly those with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. IHA’s research focuses on the unique needs of underserved populations, using innovative approaches to improve end-of-life care, dementia support and long-term care.
IHA’s Health and the Arts portfolio explores the intersections between creativity, music and health and works to promote cognitive and emotional well-being across the lifespan. Our researchers are investigating how arts-based interventions, particularly music, can support mental health, cognitive function and quality of life for older adults, including those with dementia.
IHA’s Equity Sciences portfolio aims to address health equity, diversity and inclusion through projects that promote equitable mentorship in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Our goal is to increase diversity and inclusion in clinical trials and biomedical careers. By focusing on underrepresented communities and ethical health practices, this portfolio seeks to build a more equitable and just healthcare system.
IHA’s Health Economics and Health Policy research examines economic, social and health impacts of healthcare delivery and substance use, with a focus on reproductive health, HIV prevention and the effects of tobacco and cannabis use. These studies aim to identify cost-effective strategies and inform evidence-based public health policies.
IHA’s Mental Health and Substance Use portfolio focuses on the health and economic impacts of substance use, including tobacco and cannabis. This research aims to assess the effects of substance use on youth health, school system costs and environmental toxicity, providing evidence to inform public health policy and tobacco control efforts.
IHA advances workforce development by optimizing service delivery models and supporting evidence-based health workforce planning to equip providers with the tools to deliver equitable and sustainable healthcare solutions globally and locally.
