2008 Review of the Division of Behavioral and Social Research by National Advisory Council on Aging

National Institute on Aging Council Review of the Division of Behavioral and Social Research (BSR)

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) National Advisory Council on Aging (NACA) has completed its quadrennial review of the Division of Behavioral and Social Research. The purpose of the review was to assess whether the overall performance and more importantly, the future trajectory of research being promoted and supported by the Division are appropriate. The report (PDF, 139K) produced by the 2008 Review Committee recommends several directions for BSR-Sponsored Research and training.

The 2008 Review Committee (MS Word, 28K), co-chaired by John Cacioppo and Alan Garber, included current and former members of the Council, and other distinguished scientists with research interests relevant to BSR. The Committee conducted the review, reported to the Director of NIA and the Council, and prepared the written report. While the report is addressed to the Council, it is influential in determining BSR scientific priorities and improving programs.

Subcommittees were formed to consider special issues in nine research topic areas, each chaired by a member of the Review Committee:

1. Genetics
2. Demography, Social Epidemiology, Sociology of Aging
3. Health Disparities
4. Behavioral and Community Interventions
5. Cognitive Interventions
6. Medicare, Health Services, and Long Term Care
7. Psychology of Aging
8. Satellite Health Accounts
9. Social Neuroscience and Neuroeconomics

Previous reviews of the BSR were conducted in February 1998, May 2000, and May 2004. The 2004 Review Committee, chaired by Ronald Lee, produced a report (PDF, 114K) as well.