Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development

The Duke Aging Center stands as a premier institution dedicated to advancing research and education in the field of aging and longevity. Established in 1955, the clinic serves as a multidisciplinary hub committed to promoting healthy aging across the lifespan while adeptly managing the social and medical complexities that often accompany late life. With a robust team of over 150 affiliated faculty members from the University and Medical Center, the clinic garners millions of dollars in annual funding for aging-related research, solidifying its status as a vital national resource. It offers a wide array of services, including specialized programs such as the Duke-UNC Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and the Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center, addressing the multifaceted needs of older adults. The clinic’s commitment to enhancing the functional status of older adults is exemplified through its Older Americans Resources and Services (OARS) Program. This innovative program is designed to assess the impact of various services on the functional well-being of older individuals, utilizing a comprehensive model that includes individual assessments and detailed service evaluations. The OARS Multidimensional Functional Assessment Questionnaire (OMFAQ) is a cornerstone tool that facilitates this process, allowing for tailored interventions that improve the quality of life for seniors. Through its emphasis on research, training programs, and community engagement, the Duke Aging Center not only fosters an environment of academic excellence but also actively contributes to the practical application of its findings in the lives of older adults, making it a leader in the field of geriatric care and aging research.