Published in the Journal of Gerontology, Series A: Medical Sciences, the research highlights how swapping costly imaging for more accessible blood tests is a trade-off that calls for larger sample sizes and more caution against bias.
2026 PhD in Gerontology graduate Mengzhao Yan, who also received his MA in Aging Services Management in 2019, investigates the use of services, home modification, and technology to help older people and people with disabilities age in place.
The USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology celebrated more than 200 graduates of its undergraduate, master's and doctoral programs during USC's 143rd Commencement on May 15, 2026.
From basic biology investigation at the lab bench to social science research in populations across the globe, USC Leonard Davis scientists study aging across numerous disciplines. This "creates a uniquely holistic way of thinking about aging" for students and trainees, says Maxim Averbukh PhD '26.
In her dissertation research, Eleanor Batista-Malat PhD '26 found that, contrary to conventional wisdom, older adults receiving home- and community-based services still had the same likelihood of experiencing abuse as those not receiving services. After graduation, she will begin a VA fellowship to further her research in improving health care.
A first-generation college student, Tiffany Wang treasures the support and opportunities for growth she found at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology.
Faith Huss, who served in the U.S. Army for 10 years prior to attending USC, will use her nutrition and dietetics expertise to serve patients at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Long Beach, where she also interned.
Experts share how tech advances, including new AI models and biomedical innovation, can transform aging research, care delivery, and health systems – but must be deployed responsibly, effectively, and at scale.