7th Annual Aging Research Symposium
Hope For the Future: Thoughts on UHD's 7th Annual Aging Research Symposium
One thing is for certain: Aging is inevitable. If we are lucky enough, we will join the ranks of the rapidly growing population of older adults. Unfortunately, there are a slew of challenges for aging adults, from improper medical care to the lack of qualified caregivers.
College of Public Service students enrolled in Dr. Angela Goins course, Practice with Aging Populations, addressed the issues facing this special adult population in the 7th Annual Aging Research Poster Symposium on April 24.
“The students in the class research topics that are pertinent to the older adult population, and their projects provide them with research and presentation skills necessary for social workers, as such abilities will allow them to make informed decisions when they are in the field,” said Dr. Angela Goins, Assistant Professor of Social Work. “Students learn about the existing policies that impact those aging in our country and provide policy recommendations and solutions.”
Social work students tackled research topics like alcohol and substance abuse, lack of funding for dementia daycare centers, and aging once released from prison. “The symposium provides an opportunity to do research on a topic and gain knowledge,” said student Gypsy Longoria. “It is one of the best ways to advocate for older adults.” The annual symposium wasn’t just insightful, it served as a call-to-action for those attending. Through meaningful research and dialogue, CPS students challenged attendees to consider the impact of decisions today and plan for the future ahead.
Check out photos from the symposium below.
About the University of Houston-Downtown
The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) is the second-largest university in Houston and has served the educational needs of the nation’s fourth-largest city since 1974. As one of four distinct public universities in the University of Houston System, UHD is a comprehensive, four-year university led by President Loren J. Blanchard. Annually, UHD educates approximately 14,000 students, boasts more than 66,000 alumni, and offers 45 bachelor’s degrees, 12 master’s degrees, and 19 online programs within four colleges: Marilyn Davies College of Business, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Public Service, and College of Sciences and Technology. UHD has one of the lowest tuition rates in Texas.
U.S. News and World Report ranked UHD among the nation’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Applied Administration and Best Online Master’s Programs in Criminal Justice, as well as a Top Performer in Social Mobility. The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse ranked UHD one of the best colleges in the U.S. for its 2024 rankings, with notable distinctions: No. 1 for diversity (tied) and No. 3 for student experience. The University is designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, a Minority-Serving Institution, and a Military Friendly School. For more information on the University of Houston-Downtown, visit uhd.edu.