The Sealy Center on Aging at UTMBLeading Aging Research Since 1995

The UTMB Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center (P30 AG024832) invites UTMB investigators to apply for its 2026 Pilot Research Awards. These one‑year, NIH‑funded pilot grants support innovative research that advances functional independence in older adults with chronic disabling conditions. Proposals are encouraged from all research areas—basic science, clinical research, population health, patient‑centered outcomes, and translational studies (T1–T4). Priority areas include chronic disabling conditions and recovery, technology to support independence, disparities in aging, geroscience, and community-based approaches to functional independence. Awardees receive funding of up to $50,000 in direct costs and access to Pepper Center research cores, biostatistics support, and mentoring resources. The application process includes a Letter of Intent due April 6, 2026, followed by an invited full proposal due May 15, 2026. All UTMB investigators interested in aging research are encouraged to apply.

Join us for the next RCMAR Lecture on March 24, 2026. “Situating Functional and Cognitive Health Among Older Mexican Americans Within Neighborhood Context," will be presented by Weidi Qin, PhD, MSW, MPH, Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin–Madison, and, "Beyond Dollars and Hours: Understanding Care Characteristics and Caregiver Strain in Family Caregiving for Hispanic and non-Hispanic Older Americans," will be presented by Stipica Mudrazija, PhD, William L. Dowling Endowed Professor in Health Administration, University of Washington.

Join us for the next Pepper Investigators Lecture on March 25, 2026, “Home Hospice Care: A Journey to Understand Hospice Discharge, Symptom Burden, and Family Caregiving," presented by Veerawat Phongtankuel, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Weill Cornell.

Galveston is preparing for an exciting new chapter in community well‑being as the Blue Zones Project takes its next steps on the island. Residents, community partners, and stakeholders are invited to attend a special gathering that will introduce the initiative and outline the collaborative efforts ahead.

Thanks to everyone for participating in today's meet & greet with researchers and the Community Advisory Board (CAB) at SCOA and our NIA-funded Pepper Center! The CAB plays an important role in strengthening partnerships between research and the community.