Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced that Cal State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) will receive a $747,000 grant for the CSUSB Center on Aging from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This award will contribute to important gerontology research by studying how social activities may reduce cognitive decline and dementia in older age. Having such data about the cognitive health of seniors can help improve the overall health of seniors in our region, and help families preserve precious time with loved ones.

“It’s crucial that we keep prioritizing innovations to improve seniors’ quality of life. I’m continuously in awe of the discoveries that the researchers at the CSUSB Center on Aging are making,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “I’m proud to announce this award for the important work that they are doing, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact their research will make for the seniors in our community and beyond.”

“I hope that this project will encourage social participation among older adults and change the way that social activities are measured in surveys,” said Dr. Eric Vogelsang, Director of the CSUSB Center on Aging. “This grant will be used to hire undergraduate and graduate students as assistants on this major project and give significant research experience to individuals who are, traditionally, not offered such opportunities.”

In previous years, Rep. Aguilar has helped secure various grants for the Center on Aging, totaling nearly $2 million in federal funding since 2021.

Rep. Aguilar serves as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and is a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.