Study Updates
The Relocation and Transitional Experiences (RELATE) Study focuses on those transitioning, or preparing to transition, into a new living environment later in life. We are interested in understanding how a major life event, such as moving into senior housing (independent living, cooperatives, assisted living, skilled nursing facilities, etc.), may be related to health and well being. We are currently recruiting individuals and couples who are planning to move into any type of senior housing facility to participate in our study. The study typically takes place over the course of 3-4 months and includes a variety of assessments related to physical and mental health.
Due to the the COVID-19 health crisis, Colorado State University had to suspend all non-essential on campus and face-to-face research activities in March. Fortunately, our research team was able to develop Remote Procedures for the RELATE study that allow participants to safely do assessments online using a personal computer, tablet or mobile smart phone. We hope to be back on campus and have in-person study options available again in late August, but we will continue to offer remote procedures for those who feel more comfortable.
The RELATE study has been ongoing for about a year and a half. To date, we have 52 participants who have completed the study (already transitioned), 24 active participants (currently transitioning), and 110 future participants (preparing to transition within the next 6 months).
Getting Involved
We are always looking for more participants! If you or anyone you know is 50+ and may be moving into senior housing and might be interested in participating, please contact us.
(970) 491-0871
HEART@colostate.edu
RELATE Staff
The RELATE Study is carried out by a team of researchers who work together on various aspects of the study. Recently, research assistant Jim Miller, has been instrumental in developing Remote Procedures for the RELATE Study.
His work has allowed us to continue collecting participant data throughout the pandemic by using a secure web application called REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture). Jim received his B.A. in Psychology from Rowan University. He has been with the Heath, Emotion, and Aging Research Team for the past year and a half and will be entering the Ph.D. program this fall. His research interests are in stress management, specifically mindset interventions as they relate to stress.
News
The RELATE study is funded by grants from the John Templeton Foundation and the Mind and Life Institute. Recently our principal investigator, Dr. Gloria Luong, was awarded additional funding from HABIC (Human Animal Bond Institute of Colorado).
In May, Dr. Luong presented to the Rotary Club of Fort Collins on loneliness among older adults, a topic they asked her to discuss because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Dr. Luong is also working on a COVID testing project with Colorado State University Center for Healthy Aging (CHA) researchers.
Recent Publications
Daily interpersonal tensions and well-being among older adults: The role of emotion regulation strategies. Birditt KS, Polenick CA, Luong G, Charles ST, Fingerman KL.
Same old, same old? Age differences in the diversity of daily life. Weber C, Quintus M, Egloff B, Luong G, Riediger M, Wrzus C.
Health and Wellness Tips
- Exercise and/or meditate regularly to reduce stress
- Get plenty of sleep
- Eat a well balanced diet
- Stay safe from COVID by practicing good hygiene:
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Practice social distancing by keeping 6 feet from others
- Wear a face covering when in public or shared residential spaces
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces regularly
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The Health, Emotion, and Aging Research Team (HEART) examines how individuals develop the abilities to regulate emotional experiences and cope with daily stressors and how these skills can be harnessed to promote healthy and successful aging.
