Testing innovative strategies to improve the quality of healthcare and self-care for older adults

The Indiana University Center for Aging Research was established in 1997 through collaboration among the Regenstrief Institute, Inc., Indiana University, and the Indiana University School of Medicine. Founded in the spirit of collaboration, we have remained true to this spirit through interdisciplinary research that engages the patient, provider, lay and scientific communities. IU-CAR has received national recognition for the use of Regenstrief Medical Record System to improve the quality and efficiency of health care for older adults.

The mission of the Center is to improve the health care and self-care of older adults. Our scientists have a particular interest in research to strengthen the nation’s primary care system to better serve the needs of older Americans. We also conduct research to integrate the resources of the health care system with the resources of the social and public health agencies seeking to improve the lives of older adults. Over the past decade, our research has increasingly emphasized the important role of the older adult in achieving their health goals through self-care and self-management.

The Center is led by Founding Director Dr. Christopher Callahan and Associate Directors Dr. Douglas K. Miller and Dr. Malaz Boustani. Joining them is a core of MD and PhD Center Scientists who conduct research as their primary academic mission within the Center. These investigators have active extramural funding from the National Institutes of Health, the Veterans Administration, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, private foundations, state government, and industry.

In addition to the Center Scientists, the Center has professional relationships with Affiliated Scientists representing a broad range of academic disciplines. Our steady stream of funded research projects attracts a cadre of highly skilled and educated professional staff members who work in the Center. They are represented by positions in grants and financial management, project and program management, health information technology management, computer programming and biostatistics. A core of research coordinators and research assistants enhance the research team.

Learn more about IU-CAR at http://medicine.iupui.edu/IUCAR/.