Our work examines how loneliness and social isolation impact brain health among older adults. Dr. Yu has developed and tested behavioral interventions, ranging from group-based programs to one-on-one conversational support, that foster meaningful connection and cognitive engagement. Her work demonstrates that increasing social interaction can help slow cognitive decline and improve quality of life in aging populations.
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A core focus of the lab’s work is promoting equity in aging, especially among immigrants, racially minoritized, and underserved communities. We have developed culturally tailored health interventions for Asian and Hispanic older adults and their caregivers. Through community-engaged research methods, Dr. Yu addresses structural barriers to care and works to ensure that aging-related interventions are inclusive, accessible, and relevant to all.
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Posters
2026
- “Unraveling the Underlying Mechanisms of Loneliness, Social Isolation, and Cognitive Decline: A Systematic Review”
Texas Alzheimer’s Research and Care Consortium (TARCC) Symposium
2025
- “Dementia Education Programs for Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Filipino, and Vietnamese Communities: A Scoping Review”
Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) - “Feasibility and Acceptability of an Online Conversation Intervention to Promote Social Connectedness and Prevent Cognitive Decline among Older Chinese Immigrants”
Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) - “A Body-Mind-Spirit Seld-Care Program for Chinese Caregivers”
Alter Dementia Summit