Explore the transformative field of gerontology with Dr. Julie Brown, as we delve into misconceptions, language, and innovations shaping aging. Discover how age tech advances can enhance independence, challenge stereotypes, and promote a more inclusive view of growing older.

About Dr. Brown

Dr. Julie A. Brown is an Associate Professor of Gerontologyat Ohio University whose work focuses on how we understand and experience aging in everyday life. She teaches courses on topics such as the business of aging and later life relationships, with an emphasis on how aging shapes identity, decision making, environments, and daily routines. Her work brings together research, teaching, and community engagement to highlight both the complexity and the relevance of growing older in today’s world.

Dr. Brown’s work also explores the intersection of aging, technology, and the home environment. Often referred to as an “AgeTech Gerontologist,” she is widely recognized for her work examining how technology shapes the aging experience, for better or worse. As a Certified Aging in PlaceSpecialist, she is especially interested in helping people navigate decisions about staying in, and thriving within, their homes. Her work is grounded in both scholarship and real world application, with a focus on creating more supportive and age inclusive systems for individuals, families, and communities.

Key Takeaways

• Gerontology is the scientific study of aging and olderadulthood. It examines the aging process from a lifespan perspective, encompassing the physical, psychological, social, and emotional aspects ofgrowing older.
• Age-tech (also known as gerontechnology) is the development, design, and use of technology to enhance the aging experience. Technologies shouldfocus on expanding capabilities rather than simply compensating for deficits. Too often, aging is viewed solely through a medical lens instead of a lifestylelens—prioritizing limitations over opportunities for independence, connection,wellness, and quality of life.
• Because everybody has different experiences and lifecircumstances, there is no one-way to view aging, Older adults are the most heterogeneous population – an 85-year-old can run circles around a 60-year-old,for example.
• More older people are seeking help for mental health. We have come a long way towards understanding the importance of mental health across the entire lifespan.
• We need to think about the importance of language to how we convey ideas and values. Using “anti-aging” is like saying that you are not valued – not good enough.
• Aging in place is less about a specific location and more about a sense of comfort, confidence, and control. It means being able to remain in the environment where a person feels most secure, supported, and connected.
• In the US, there's a dearth of housing, and particularly a dearth of housing that is age friendly. Plan early. The worst time to plan is during crisis.