Dawn Carr

FSU researcher wins mid-career award for work on aging and health

A Florida State University researcher has won an international award for her work on social engagement and healthy functioning for adults in later life.  Dawn Carr, an associate professor in FSU’s Sociology Department and the director of the university’s Claude Pepper Center, earned the 2022 Ewald W. Busse Research Award for excellence in the social/behavioral […]

FSU expert available to comment on psychological effects of social isolation during COVID-19 pandemic

Millions of Americans are staying home to “flatten the curve” of coronavirus cases. Among those avoiding other people are many older Americans, whose age puts them at a greater risk of serious complications from a COVID-19 infection. That isolation — for seniors and for everyone else — can bring loneliness and frustration. A Florida State […]

The pet effect: FSU researchers find furry friends ease depression, loneliness after spousal loss

As Healthy Aging Month is underway this September, Florida State University researchers have found the companionship of a pet after the loss of a spouse can help reduce feelings of depression and loneliness in older adults. The study, funded by The Gerontological Society of America and the WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition and published in […]

Brains age better among retirees with complex jobs

FSU researcher finds connection between job complexity and cognitive function Retiring from your full-time job might not be the best thing for your brain as you age, according to a new study out of Florida State University. A team of researchers led by FSU Associate Professor of Sociology Dawn Carr found that people in so-called […]

Older immigrants living in U.S. more satisfied with life than native-born counterparts

Most people who immigrated to the United States for a chance to live the “American Dream” are more satisfied with their lives in the “land of the free” than those who were born here, according to new research from Florida State University. A team of researchers, including FSU Assistant Professor of Sociology Dawn Carr, found […]

FSU researchers find low resilience puts men at risk for depression

Men who lack resilience are exponentially more vulnerable to becoming severely depressed after their spouse dies, according to a new study from Florida State University researchers. Brittany King, a graduate student in the Department of Sociology, along with Assistant Professor Dawn Carr and Associate Professor Miles Taylor, examined the symptoms of depression in older men […]

FSU experts available to comment on healthy aging

September is Healthy Aging month, an annual national observance to focus attention on the positive aspects of growing older. Florida State University faculty are among the global leaders in the study of gerontology, aging and longevity. These experts are available to comment on a variety of topics related to healthy aging and successful longevity. Anne Barrett, professor […]

FSU researchers pursue the truth about cats and dogs … and older adults

Many believe that owning pets can be beneficial for older adults. But is it true that a dog or a cat can make life better for older family members, or is this simply a comfortable myth? Two researchers with Florida State University’s Institute for Successful Longevity intend to find out with the support of a […]

Expert Pitch: FSU experts available to comment on trending topics in 21st century caregiving

As families come together this holiday season, the topic of elderly loved ones and their care may come up at the dinner table. Are they fit to live alone? Should they be placed in a home? Is at-home care an option? How much will it cost? These are important questions to consider when faced with […]

Expert Pitch: Healthy aging and longevity

Developed nations across the globe are experiencing a common demographic trend: disproportionately graying populations. As the percentage of elderly individuals throughout the developed world continues to increase, issues of healthy aging and longevity are quickly moving to the fore. Florida State University experts are among the global leaders in the study of gerontology, aging and […]

Faculty and Staff Briefs: June 2017

HONORS AND AWARDS Dawn Carr, Ph.D. (Sociology), Miles Taylor, Ph.D. (Sociology) and Walter Boot, Ph.D. (Psychology) have been elected as fellows of the Gerontological Society of America, the world’s oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to research, education and practice in the field of aging. Fellowship is an acknowledgement of outstanding and continuing work in […]

Pepper Institute faculty elected as fellows of national aging society

Researchers at Florida State University’s Pepper Institute on Aging and Public Policy are being recognized nationally for their important work on aging issues, which are taking on greater significance as the world’s population grows older and people live longer. Three members of the institute’s affiliated faculty have been elected this year as fellows of the […]