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Articles by Orli Belman
USC Leonard Davis School awarded $3 million to enhance financial and workplace security for family caregivers
The USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology received $3 million from the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to support family caregivers in maintaining financial stability and workplace security. Funding will be used to develop and curate a variety of resources and tools, including a website offering comprehensive information on financial and workplace security tailored to caregivers’ diverse needs.
Uncovering the Secrets of SuperAgers
At 96 years old, sculptor Thaddeus Mosley has never been more in demand. The Baltimore Museum of Art showcased five of his recent works as part of a traveling tour that also includes a stop in Los Angeles. Mosley created three large sculptures for a 2020 display at Rockefeller Center, and he is the subject of a soon-to-open exhibition at the Louvre-affiliated Eugène Delacroix Museum in Paris.
USC’s Crimmins, Pastor join American Academy of Arts and Sciences
Noted USC faculty members Eileen Crimmins and Manuel Pastor have been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. They join more than 250 accomplished individuals in this year’s academy class, which celebrated authors Sandra Cisneros and Salman Rushdie, Brookings Institution President and retired United States Marine Corps four-star general John R.
Hormone helps prevent muscle loss in mice on high fat diets, study finds
Credit: CC0 Public Domain A new study suggests that a hormone known to prevent weight gain and normalize metabolism can also help maintain healthy muscles in mice. The findings present new possibilities for treating muscle-wasting conditions associated with age, obesity or cancer, according to scientists from the University of Southern California Leonard Davis School of Gerontology.
Hormone helps prevent muscle loss in mice on high fat diets
Su-Jeong Kim, research assistant professor of gerontology A new study suggests that a hormone known to prevent weight gain and normalize metabolism can also help maintain healthy muscles in mice. The findings present new possibilities for treating muscle-wasting conditions associated with age, obesity or cancer, according to scientists from the University of Southern California Leonard Davis School of Gerontology.
Mitochondrial mutation increases the risk of diabetes in Japanese men
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain A new study of Type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Japanese populations has uncovered a previously uncharacterized genetic variant that puts male carriers at greater risk for the disease, as well as the mechanism by which it does so. The impact of the variant was most pronounced in sedentary men; those with the variant had a 65% greater rate of T2D than sedentary men without it.
Most Medicare beneficiaries say they don't receive cognitive assessments
Credit: CC0 Public Domain New research from the University of Southern California measured the use of Medicaid's annual wellness visits and the receipt of structured cognitive assessments among Medicaid beneficiaries. Lead author Mireille Jacobson, an economist and associate professor at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, and colleagues surveyed a sample of adults with either Medicare Advantage (MA) or fee-for service Medicare.
USC Gerontology researchers find evidence of pandemic fatigue
Research Associate Professor Jung Ki Kim A new study from the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology shows that the behavioral responses to COVID-19 differed by age. The research, led by Jung Ki Kim, research associate professor at the USC Leonard Davis School, examined how age affected the practice of preventive and risky behaviors in response to COVID-19 and how these behaviors changed over the first three months of the pandemic.
Vern Bengtson, 78, professor of gerontology, social work and sociology
University In a USC career that spanned over 50 years, Bengtson explored the roles of faith and family across generations. Vern Bengtson worked at USC for more than 50 years. (Photo/Bob Rija Jr.) REDIRECT TO https://gero.usc.edu/2019/11/15/in-memoriam-vern-bengtson-professor-of-gerontology-social-work-and-sociology/ USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Professor Vern Bengtson, a social psychologist known for his work on intergenerational relations, passed away on Friday, November 8.
In memoriam: Vern Bengtson, professor of gerontology, social work and sociology
USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology Professor Vern Bengtson, a social psychologist known for his work on intergenerational relations, passed away on Friday, November 8. He was 78 years old. “For over half a century at USC, Vern Bengtson defined excellence in gerontology through his important research, dedication to students, and commitment to exploration,” said USC Leonard Davis School Dean Pinchas Cohen.
G-20 Summit Puts Aging on the Agenda
Dean Pinchas Cohen (2nd from left) at the GPFI panel discussion June 7 in Tokyo, Japan. Other panelists included Professor Jin Narumoto of the Kyoto Prefecture University of Medicine; Surya Kolluri, managing director of Bank of America Merrill Lynch; and Toshio Morita, president of Nomura Securities Co, Ltd. The panel was moderated by Flore-Anne Messy, head of the OECD Financial Affairs Division.
USC Leonard Davis School Launches Master of Arts in Medical Gerontology
In order to better prepare health care practitioners to meet the needs of a rapidly aging population, the University of Southern California Leonard Davis School of Gerontology is introducing a new Master of Arts in Medical Gerontology. Beginning in the fall of 2019, this innovative program will provide students with a comprehensive approach to aging, which includes examining older adults’ living environments, nutritional practices and care needs.
Previously Unknown Mitochondrial Gene Guards Against Dementia
New research from USC has uncovered a previously unknown genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The study provides insights on how these conditions, and other diseases of aging, might one day be treated and prevented. The research from the Cohen Lab at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology sheds new light on the protective role of a naturally occurring mitochondrial peptide, known as humanin.
Researchers uncover previously unknown dementia, Alzheimer's risk factor
The research from the Cohen Lab at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology sheds new light on the protective role of a naturally occurring mitochondrial peptide, known as humanin. Amounts of the peptide decrease with age, leading researchers to believe that humanin levels play an important function in the aging process and the onset of diseases linked to older age.
Researchers uncover previously unknown dementia, Alzheimer’s risk factor
New research from USC has uncovered a previously unknown genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The study provides insights on how these conditions, and other diseases of aging, might one day be treated and prevented. The research from the Cohen Lab at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology sheds new light on the protective role of a naturally occurring mitochondrial peptide, known as humanin.
New research reveals a mitochondrial gene that protects against dementia and other diseases of aging
New research from USC has uncovered a previously unknown genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The study provides insights on how these conditions, and other diseases of aging, might one day be treated and prevented. The research from the Cohen Lab at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology sheds new light on the protective role of a naturally occurring mitochondrial peptide, known as humanin.
$11 million National Institute on Aging grant supports research on air pollution and Alzheimer’s
A new National Institute on Aging program grant awarded to USC researchers focuses on air pollution and Alzheimer’s disease. The five-year grant will examine how urban air pollution contributes to accelerated brain aging and dementia risk. “The aging brain is vulnerable to air pollution,” said USC University Professor Caleb Finch, holder of the ARCO-William F.
Kelvin Davies, Enrique Cadenas named officers of France’s National Order of Merit
USC Professors Kelvin J. A. Davies and Enrique Cadenas have been named officers of France’s National Order of Merit, a prestigious award and honor bestowed by the president of France that recognizes their contributions and service to science, international cooperation and France. Davies, the James E.
Quiet Heroes — Over Eighty offers universal life lessons from older L.A. immigrants
Veda Joshi left his home in Nepal to provide a better education for his children. Rachel Lapin fled persecution in Russia. Guy Pasquini stowed away on a ship from Italy in search of a new beginning. All of them settled in Los Angeles and are featured in Quiet Heroes — Over Eighty, a photography exhibit showcasing the region’s older immigrants and minorities who share advice on how to overcome adversity and live a meaningful life.
Men and women now on equal footing for cardiovascular risk, with both improving
"Women and men are almost the same now and older people are almost the same as middle-aged people," said senior author Eileen Crimmins, University Professor and AARP Professor of Gerontology at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology. The study credits decreasing rates of smoking and increased use and efficacy of prescription medications for reductions in high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
USC students to provide low-cost caregiving for seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia
Launching Tuesday, Feb 13, YouthCare is a new respite care program from the Youth Movement Against Alzheimer’s (YMAA) that pairs undergraduate and graduate students from the University of Southern California Leonard Davis School of Gerontology with older adults diagnosed with early-stage dementia. This pilot project offers three to six hours per week of low-cost care at a community clinic in downtown Los Angeles so that caregivers can get a needed break.
What to know about fasting, aging, dieting and when you should eat
Armed with results from the lab—including clinical trials showing that cycles of a five-day fasting-mimicking diet can reduce risk factors for many life-threatening diseases—Longo is calling for change in the kitchen. In this Q&A, he reveals the role that food can play in keeping us youthful and tackles some common misconceptions related to how, what and when we should eat. How important is food to our health and aging?
What to know about fasting, aging, the ‘longevity diet‘ and when you should eat
Biochemist Valter Longo has devoted decades to discovering connections between nutrition and successful aging. He runs the Longevity Institute at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, which aims to extend healthy life spans and finding ways to prevent and treat aging-related conditions. (Think cancer and cardiovascular disease.) Longo is also a professor of biological science at the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences.
Thanksgiving traditions that can boost health and wellness
Gratitude is good for you. Research shows it can lower blood pressure, decrease depression and improve quality of life. "Gratitude works," said Buturain Schneider, a gerontologist, theologian and mindful aging expert at USC. But gratitude is not a feeling, it is a behavior we can practice every day of the year, she said. "You can strengthen an awareness of gratitude by sharing what you are thankful for or letting people know you appreciate them.
Thanksgiving traditions that can boost health and wellness
USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology experts Carin Kreutzer and Leah Buturain Schneider shared Thanksgiving tips that benefit both the mind and body. Gratitude is good for you. Research shows it can lower blood pressure, decrease depression and improve quality of life. “Gratitude works,” said Buturain Schneider, a gerontologist, theologian and mindful aging expert at USC. But gratitude is not a feeling, it is a behavior we can practice every day of the year, she said.
Yelp Reviewers Take a Dimmer View of Nursing Homes - USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
The stars are not aligned when it comes to online reviews of nursing homes. A new study by the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology shows that Yelp reviewers give nursing homes significantly less favorable ratings than those found on the federal website, Nursing Home Compare, run by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
Trojan looks into financial exploitation of elderly
USC’s Gerson Galdamez is among 40 graduate students joining the national Health Policy Research Scholars program. Galdamez, a student at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, will focus on elder abuse interventions and the prevention of financial exploitation among older adults. The research program is led by George Washington University, with support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
Students map out ways to make L.A. a friendly place for the elderly
Which bus stops have benches? What is my emergency evacuation plan? Where are free flu shots offered? Students in the new class “Age-Friendly L.A.,” a Wicked Problems Practicum sponsored by USC Provost Michael Quick, aim to provide answers to these questions and others in the hopes of making Los Angeles a better place to grow old.
Students map out ways to make L.A. a friendlier place for the elderly > News > USC Dornsife
City officials, professors and seniors address housing, transportation, engagement and other issues that affect the quality of life for older adults with a class co-led by Jennifer Swift of spatial sciences. Which bus stops have benches? What is my emergency evacuation plan? Where are free flu shots offered?
USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology announces Edward L. Schneider endowed chair
A $1.5 million challenge grant from the Leonard and Sophie Davis Fund has established the Edward L. Schneider Chair in Gerontology at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology to advance the study of health economics and older adults. The endowed chair honors Dean Emeritus Schneider, a professor of gerontology at the USC Leonard Davis School and the Keck School of Medicine of USC.
Dietitian turns grocery-store newcomers into savvy shoppers
Until recently, USC senior Steve Park didn’t know beans about beans. But thanks to a legume lesson during a recent class field trip through the aisles of a local supermarket, the life span health major at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology has ditched the can and learned, with some trial and error, to prepare them on his own. “My first time, I was eating essentially raw beans and didn’t know what was wrong,” said Park, who figured out that he forgot to soak them overnight.
True Colors - USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
A passion for learning and laughter propels USC alumna Phyllis Meltzer’s work and giving. As she takes the stage at a Hollywood comedy club for her first-ever stand-up routine, Phyllis Meltzer MSG ’92, PhD ‘97—or Dr. Phyllis as she introduces herself—is the definition of vibrancy. Her colorful act, an amusing array of anecdotes about adapting to life as an older adult— “I used to be 6’4,” the petite performer tells the crowd—presents a rosy but realistic outlook on aging.
USC partners on plan to help Japan’s older population - at a beauty college
From the dramatic hairdos and makeup made famous through a centuries-old culture to the fashion-forward stylings of today, Japan has long been a world leader in beauty trends. As part of what’s being called a super-aging society, the Yamano Beauty College in Japan is leading another movement as well. Through a partnership with the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, the college is preparing aspiring beauticians to meet the needs of Japan’s older adults.
How to Live a Longer, Healthier Life - USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology
Will you live to a healthy 100? The answer lies in your genetics, your lifestyle and your ability to live a life free of those illnesses that come along as a consequence of aging.
Students are unlikely housemates at retirement home - and wouldn’t have it any other way
On a clear day, the view from the rooftop patio of Kingsley Manor extends from the Pacific Ocean to beyond the downtown L.A. skyline. The ivy-covered brick walls of this four-acre Hollywood estate hold a gym, movie theater and an elegant dining room that serves three hot meals a day. This regal residence is an unlikely location for free student housing, particularly since it is a retirement community.
Making the home safer for seniors in their time of need
Before he replaced the wall-to-wall carpeting with wood floors in the Hancock Park home of 89-year-old widower Irving Anderson, Leon Watts III ’76 took pictures. Watts captured the location of every piece of furniture in the house, recording the placement of every miniature enamel box in the collection of Anderson’s late wife so he could put them back in the same place. “With older clients, it is important to make sure that changes are not more disruptive than they need to be,” Watts said.
How boomers can transform senior living
This is not your grandmother’s retirement home. That was the message delivered to nearly 60 senior housing professionals at the third annual Senior Living Executive Course led by the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology and the USC Marshall School of Business.
Stevie Tu’ikolovatu’s Other Side-Helping Seniors Age with Dignity
Credit Stevie Tu’ikolovatu’s grandfather for inspiring him to become a stalwart of Trojan football. Family patriarch Sonasi Po’uha instilled in his grandson the importance of practice, whistling from the stands for more drills, more running and more repetitions than any of his coaches. “I think about him when we have hard practices or hard games and my body is sore,” Tu’ikolovatu says.
Army cuts ribbon on West Coast research lab at USC
Leaders from USC, the U.S. Army, the Department of Defense and the White House marked the official opening of ARL West with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the facility’s new home, the USC Institute for Creative Technologies in Playa Vista. ARL West, the Army’s largest university research lab and the first west of the Mississippi, represents a new model for Army, academic and industry partnerships that aims to spur innovation by opening access to Army labs.
Virtual interviews help people with autism land a job
Sergio Cano recently landed his first job — he’s a busboy at a restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The hard-working 29-year-old never doubted his ability to rapidly clean tables and keep dishes stocked, but he did have concerns about getting through his job interview. “I was nervous that I would fidget or that it would take me a long time to answer questions, especially if the manager asked me something I didn’t understand,” he said.
Nikias talks tech with Silicon Beach executives
Innovation was the subject of the day as USC President C. L. Max Nikias talked tech with Silicon Beach-based senior executives from companies like Google, YouTube, Yahoo, SpaceX and IMAX. The Nov. 18 event at USC’s Institute for Creative Technologies in Playa Vista was hosted as part of the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce’s Power Hour series.
Army Research Laboratory selects USC institute as base for breakthroughs in science and technology
The U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL) plans to recruit up to 70 researchers to be based at the USC Institute for Creative Technologies in Playa Vista. The recruitment is part of an initiative to spur scientific breakthroughs. ARL West will be the laboratory’s largest outpost and the first one west of the Mississippi. It will leverage USC and regional expertise to broaden its abilities for the discovery, innovation and transition of science and technology.
Overnight hackathon shows the promise of virtual reality as a health care tool
They didn’t sleep. But they did dream big. During an overnight event held at the USC Institute for Creative Technologies, teams of biomedical engineers, computer scientists, physical therapists and even toy designers took part in “Hacking Virtual Medicine,” a design, development and coding marathon that challenged participants to create virtual reality health care solutions for patients and providers. Using game design software and smartphones enhanced with cardboard 3-D viewers on Oct.
Forget the joysticks - let’s push the boundaries of virtual reality
Evan Suma wants to get you off the couch. The USC Viterbi School of Engineering professor’s desire to propel people to action is so strong he constructed a virtual reality escalator as part of his Ph.D. thesis. He’s also created free software using a Microsoft Kinect so that body movements, rather than keystrokes, can control play in video games like World of Warcraft. A 2010 video he made showcasing his sans-sofa software went viral. But that is not all that’s catching on.
Alumni veterans experience virtual reality advances firsthand
As veterans, they’ve seen the challenges faced by the military up close. At a tour of the USC Institute for Creative Technologies (ICT), the USC alumni veterans saw firsthand how virtual reality can help the soldiers in real life. Ted Willis ’01 saw right away how the technology could be useful.
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