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Research

As a social scientist working in public health and medicine, my interdisciplinary research and teaching have focused on social and cultural factors influencing health throughout the life course, with an emphasis in aging, immigration, and Latin American populations, as well as educational research to improve the training of health professionals. 

My most recent NIA-funded research investigated the causes of health disparities in utilization of home and community-based services for Latinos caring for a family member with dementia. Currently, I am focusing on ways to integrate geriatric and gerontological competencies into the health and social services curricula.

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I have received funding from both governmetn agencies and foundations for my research on social engagement and health among minority older adults.

I held both academic and numerous administrative appointments at three large universities.

I have also been a research consultant in international and local government agencies, including the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and Oregon Department of Health and Human Services. While at PAHO, I provided technical support on aging throughout Latin America conducting site visits in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, and Cuba.

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