School of Aging Studies faculty and students recently attended the Florida Conference
on Aging. They presented their research on using music to reduce agitation in assisted
living residents with dementia, the potential of social engagement to prevent cognitive
decline after stroke, hearing loss and cognitive decline, and increasing disaster
preparedness among caregivers.

Tanjina Jalil, MA, manager of the USF Positive Aging Lab, presented her research, “Music, Social Engagement, and Recruitment Challenges in
Group Music Intervention,” which explores the powerful relationship between music
and dementia, emphasizing its role in social engagement. Her research aims to investigate
whether group music interventions can reduce agitation in dementia patients. Jalil
also addressed the challenges of recruiting assisted living facilities in the current
high-turnover environment, discussing strategies to integrate the study while minimizing
strain on staff.

Doctoral candidate Joanne Elayoubi, MA, presented her research on the protective benefits of social relationships on episodic
memory, depressive symptoms, and physical function for older adults who have had a
stroke. She also addressed the negative health impacts of social isolation and loneliness
and spoke about ways we can advance social connectedness in the community.

Assistant Professor of Instruction Nasreen Sadeq, PhD, presented her recent findings about the relationship between hearing loss and cognition,
which recommends that routine hearing screenings and better access to hearing aids
can substantially improve quality of life.

Research Assistant Professor Lindsay Peterson, PhD, presented her research on disaster preparedness. Peterson is developing a computer-based
tool to assist caregivers in disaster preparedness, which conference attendees were
invited to try.

Conference attendees could also visit the school’s booth to learn more about its research
and academic programs, pick up some freebies, and participate in a raffle.