“Nothing is as exciting as a fresh idea, and nothing is more powerful than a mind turned on.” — Norman Cousins, author and peace advocate
Project 1 | Project 2 | Project 3 | Project 4 | Project 5 | Project 6
Our research team was featured in the local Korean language newspaper. The students won the best poster award at George Mason University Celebration of Scholarship! (August 2024)
Summary
WiSER’s goal is to enhance the well-being and quality of life of older adults through evidence-based research and active community engagement. By focusing on improving health outcomes, we aim to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact. One of our key initiatives, the 2024 Summer Team Impact Project, exemplifies our commitment to addressing critical issues in older immigrants and their quality of life through civic engagement. Watch our video: https://youtu.be/jLmzEyejpPE?si=DGqGxF6_oDX0XGTr
Our work on virtual reality training in dementia care for nursing home direct care workers with Jolly Good Inc. was featured as an impactful research in the College Annual Impact Report and University’s official SPIRIT magazine!
Summary
WISER’s research is based on theoretical underpinnings in the impact of human connection on health and well-being of older adults. We use Relationship-Centered Care to our approach in dementia care training. Our research “Relationship-Centered Care for Formal and Informal Caregivers of Persons Living with Dementia: VR and Multi-modal Approaches” was awarded $25,000 from the Geriatric Training and Education Initiative from the Virginia Center on Aging and $29,958 USD by the College of Public Health Pilot Award.
Li-Mei has written an advocacy brief for GSA Advocacy Day on the Hill. Find it here. She has been highlighted on the University website, too.
Summary
Empowerment & Advocacy – We elevate the voices of older adults, empowering them to shape policies, programs, and research that directly impact their lives.
Dr. Chen and Professor Tomaszweski kicks off a year long Human Rights Dialogue Series with UN Independent Expert on Human Rights, Dr. Claudia Mahler and Dean Melissa Perry as speakers. In December, we commemorated the World AIDS Day with an AID Quilt and speaker series. The Human Rights Dialogue Series continues till April 2026.
Summary
Lifelong Learning & Innovation – We embrace continuous learning and innovative approaches to address the evolving needs of aging populations throughout our implicit and extracurricular events. cultivate the next generation of researchers and leaders, working together to drive positive change in aging policies and practices.
Li-Mei presented at three major academic conferences with 14 presentations in 2025-2026. These are photos from the American Public Health Association in January 2026.
Summary
Equity & Inclusion – Through our research and dissemination, we advocate for equitable access to resources and opportunities, ensuring that all older adults, regardless of background, can age with dignity and purpose.
Li-Mei and her team presented their work with racial and ethnic older adults and their experiences with civic engagement. We presented our findings at the American Public Health Association (November 2025), Gerontological Society of America (November 2025), and the Society for Social Work Research (January 2026).
Summary
Evidence-based Research Impact – Our vision is a world where all older adults thrive, supported by research-driven solutions and engaged communities. WiSER’s research strives to transform aging experiences by advancing knowledge, shaping policies, and empowering individuals and organizations to improve health and well-being. Through collaboration, innovation, and education, we envision a future where aging is met with dignity, opportunity, and meaningful social participation.