Skip Navigation and Go To Content
News from The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

Stories from The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth Houston)

Navigation and Search

UTHealth Houston Institute on Aging Announces 2024 Translational Aging Research Pilot Funding Recipients

Written by: Erica Crosno | Updated: September 13, 2024

Jessica Lee and Min Ji Kwak are the recipients of the Institute on Aging Research Grant

These funds have been awarded to two researchers for their innovative studies aimed at exploring the effects of social adversity on aging and health outcomes in older adults.

  • Jessica Lee, MD, MS: Multi-Omics of Frailty and Social Adversity in Homebound Older Adults
    This study focuses on homebound older adults who are often frail and socially isolated, both of which increase their risk of disability and death. The research involves a pilot trial using an exercise and nutrition program delivered through Meals on Wheels, aiming to improve physical activity, reduce frailty, and lessen loneliness. Early results show that more daily steps are linked to better walking speed, less frailty, and reduced loneliness. The team is also studying blood samples to identify biological markers related to frailty and social isolation, with the goal of developing better interventions for this vulnerable population.

  • Min Ji Kwak, MD, DrPh, MS: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence Technology to Identify Social Adversity Factors Associated with Acute Heart Failure Exacerbation Among Older Adults
    This project aims to use artificial intelligence (AI) to help doctors identify social challenges that may lead to worsening heart failure in older adults, such as lack of access to medication, food, or transportation. These social factors often go unnoticed in routine medical care but can contribute to preventable hospitalizations. By analyzing patients' electronic health records, including unstructured notes, the AI tool will recognize these risks and create a scoring system (SCORE-AHF) to predict future heart failure events. The goal is to reduce unnecessary hospital visits and improve care for older adults.

The pilot funding will support groundbreaking research that will contribute to the understanding of how social adversity impacts the aging process, increasing susceptibility to frailty, morbidity, and mortality. Both projects are expected to produce insights that could lead to new approaches for enhancing the health and well-being of older adults facing social adversity.

 

site var = uth