Gerontological Society of America 2024 Annual Meeting
The Aging in Diverse Populations Lab made a strong showing at this year’s Gerontological Society of America (GSA) Annual Scientific Meeting, held in Seattle, WA, from November 12-16, 2024. The meeting’s theme, "Harnessing the Power of Gerontology: From Individuals to Societies," provided a fitting platform for our lab’s research, which emphasizes the intersections of structural inequities, health disparities, and aging.
Members of the lab delivered insightful presentations that sparked engaging discussions among attendees. Highlights included:
Catherine Garcia and Morgan Ann Parella’s presentation on the long-term effects of early-life adversity on cardiometabolic risk trajectories, showcasing novel findings from multigroup latent class analysis using Health and Retirement Study data. The talk underscored the critical importance of addressing childhood disadvantage as a determinant of health in later life.
Ying Xu, Xiaoyu Fu, and Merril D. Silverstein presented their compelling research on the interplay between childhood trauma, social networks, and gender in shaping depression among older adults. Their poster presentation illuminated how early-life adversity casts a long shadow over mental health in later life, while also highlighting the protective and mediating role of robust social networks.
Tianqi Zhou, Martin Lakomý, and Merril D. Silverstein delivered a thought-provoking presentation on “Individualistic Values and Support Provided to Grandchildren.” Their research explored how cultural orientations toward individualism influence the extent and nature of grandparental support, shedding light on cross-cultural and intergenerational dynamics.
Xiaoyu Fu, Ying Xu, and Merril D. Silverstein captivated the audience with their poster presentation on “Aging Attitudes: The Effects of Intergenerational Relationships and Village Economic Context in Rural China.” Their research provided a nuanced exploration of how family dynamics and economic conditions shape attitudes toward aging in rural Chinese communities.
Hyeonji Cho, Meejung Chin, and Catherine Garcia presented a fascinating poster titled “Four Types of Financial Support among ‘Sandwiched’ Middle-Aged Adults: Life and Family Relationship Satisfaction.” Their research examined the unique challenges faced by middle-aged adults balancing financial support for both their children and aging parents, a group often referred to as the "sandwich generation."
