Andrew Kiselica, assistant professor in the Department of Health Psychology, is one of two new recipients of the IMPACT Career Development Award program from the National Institute on Aging. 

Each year the National Institute on Aging IMPACT Collaboratory awards $220,000 over two years to support the development of early-stage MD, PhD, or equivalent researchers who seek careers researching people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The IMPACT Collaboratory prioritizes applications that address dementia care for people of all backgrounds and promote health equity. 

“This award will provide me with the training and mentorship to validate and disseminate technology-focused dementia care interventions to underserved communities,” Dr. Kiselica said. 

Dr. Kiselica’s research focuses on three areas: 

• Developing and validating advanced techniques for early detection of dementia symptoms 
• Improving understanding of the relationship between stress and cognitive decline 
• Examining how assistive technologies can improve the lives of older adults, people living with dementia, and care partners.  
  

This award will further develop an evidence-based program to improve assistive technology use for people living with dementia and their care partners. The award will also provide training to improve Dr. Kiselica’s clinical trial research skills and prepare him to lead technology-focused intervention research with people living with dementia and their care partners.  

“The School of Health Professions is proud of Dr. Kiselica,” Dean Kristofer Hagglund said. “So many of us are affected by or know someone affected by the often devastating symptoms of dementia. Dr. Kiselica’s research is furthering the development of interventions to address dementia. His important work will contribute to the health and well-being of thousands of people and their loved ones. This award from the NIA confirms the value of Dr. Kiselica’s work and its promise in the future. ”