Faculty Profile
Cathleen M Connell, PhD, MS
- Professor Emerita, Health Behavior and Health Equity
Dr. Connell has background and training in Human Development and Family Studies with a focus on Adult Development and Aging. She is interested in the psychological and social context of health across the lifespan, including how individuals and families respond to the challenges of chronic disease. Her work has focused on older adults living with diabetes, heart disease, and dementia, including interventions designed to promote self care among dementia family caregivers, mental health among community dwelling seniors, and heart disease self-management among Detroit residents. She is also interested in the role of pets as a source of support for older adults.
- PhD, The Pennsylvania State University, 1986
- MS, The Pennsylvania State University, 1983
- BS, Juniata College, 1980
Research Interests:
Chronic illness self management, dementia caregiving, mental health, and the role
of pets as a support for older adults.
Research Projects:
Take Heart, a randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of a heart disease
self-management program for older adults in Detroit
Mood Lifters for Seniors, a peer-led program offered in the community for older adults seeking to improve their mental health
Family availability to provide support and care for older community-dwelling adults with dementia
Email: [email protected]
Address: 3802 SPH I
1415 Washington Heights
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
For media inquiries: [email protected]
Areas of Expertise: Aging, Chronic Disease, Mental Health