Individuals living with brain injury or other chronic conditions bring a lifetime of experiences that shape how they cope and heal. These experiences and their environment are known as non-medical drivers of health and play a vital role in recovery and well-being. Developed by a subgroup from the Moody Galveston Conference including Dr. Monique Pappadis, this fact sheet helps healthcare providers take a more holistic approach to care by considering these broader factors. English and Spanish versions are available, with practical guidance and resources to support inclusive, person-centered care.

A video is now available online for the Pepper Investigators Lecture on October 22, 2025, "Using Technology to Keep Old People Out of Nursing Homes," presented by James S. Goodwin, MD, Co-Director, Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center; Professor, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Geriatrics.

Texas approved funding for backup power at critical facilities. In The Daily Yonder, Dr. Brian Downer and PhD student Alex Holland explain what this could mean for nursing homes in rural communities and why planning and training still matter.

Heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of the 28th Annual Forum on Aging. This event provided a valuable platform for faculty, fellows, and students to showcase their ongoing research in aging, fostering collaboration and innovation within the UTMB community. Visit our website to view the program and photos from this year’s event.

What does it take to age well today? Join UTMB Health experts on brain health, aging research, nutrition and geriatric care as they share the latest insights, practical tips and resources for living longer and better on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at OLLI. Free & open to the public. OLLI membership not required. Register today!

Dr. Markides contributed to this article at Daily 27 in honor of the International Day of Older Persons on October 1, 2025. Many immigrants arrive in countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia healthier than the native-born population. But this “immigrant health advantage” often fades with time. By older age, immigrants face higher risks of chronic illness, disability, and cognitive decline—shaped by lifestyle changes, discrimination, and unequal access to care. Communities can help buffer these challenges, offering cultural and social support, though the benefits vary across countries. It is important to understand how aging, health, and caregiving intersect in these communities.

Join us for the next Data Management and Analysis Core (DMAC) for Comparative Effectiveness Research on Cancer in Texas (CERCIT) Seminar Series: "Challenges in Non-Inferiority Testing: Why It's Not Just a One-Sided Version of Superiority Testing," presented by Samiran Ghosh, Professor & Chair, Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, UT Health Houston.

Abstracts are due on October 3 for the Annual Forum on Aging. Join us at the HEC on October 16th, 4-6PM. The event provides a platform for faculty members, fellows, and students to share their ongoing aging research with the UTMB community. It is also an excellent opportunity for networking and learning about the research services offered by the Sealy Center on Aging. Each year, monetary awards are given for the best student and fellow posters.