Geriatric Health Services Research Lab Info

Mission:

We 1) develop and deploy cutting-edge science to increase the quality, access, and outcomes of patient- and family-centered approaches across the hospital to home care continuum,  2) engage diverse collaborators in conversation about solutions to aging and caregiving challenges and 3) provide a space for future researchers, educators, and those moving into health related careers to fully grasp the nuances of good research and how it can drive decisions and impacts made on society.

Vision:

We envision a society that is more physically, socially, emotionally, and financially supportive of aging adults and their family member and friend care partners.

We strive to:
1) Understand how we can best implement effective programs and services for aging adults and their care partners.
2) Use our current research projects to promote positive change in health systems.
3) Educate aging adults and their care partners, policymakers, service providers, students, and other researchers by increasing access to information and knowledge.

Principal Investigator

Beth Fields, PhD, OTR/L, BCG

Dr. Fields is an occupational therapist, assistant professor in the Department of Kinesiology, and affiliate faculty member in the Center for Aging Research and Education (CARE) and Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC) at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her research interests include caregiving, implementation of evidence-based programs, geriatric health services, aging in place and chronic conditions. She serves on the Development Council for the American Occupational Therapy Foundation and is an active member of the Health Services Task Force for the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. The National Institute of Aging and the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, Rehabilitation Research have supported her research, as well as the RRF Foundation for Aging.

Lab Manager

Anne Mortensen

I am a research specialist/lab manager in the Geriatric Health Services Research Lab.  I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and have continued my learning via numerous graduate level courses through St Thomas University, Silver Lake College, University of North Dakota and Colorado State.  I joined the GHSRL team in 2022 and have a passion for connecting with participants and assisting the research team with their efforts. I live in Madison and have three grown daughters.  In my free time, I love to be outdoors, gather with friends and family, attend events at Overture Center for the Arts, and watch Badger and Packer football.

Trainees

Melissa Hiatt

I am a PhD student in Occupational Science and a member of the GHSRL. I went to Colorado State University for a BS in Equine Science and California State University-Northridge for an MS in Kinesiology- Adapted Physical Activity. My research interests include equine-assisted services and individuals with disabilities. Outside of school and research, I am passionate about baking, photography, horses, and my dog, Ruby.

Kayla Dillon

I am a PhD/OTD dual-doctoral student and a member of the Geriatric Health Services Research Lab. I am from Huntley, IL, and attended Augustana College (Rock Island, IL) to complete my undergraduate degree in psychology, biology, and Spanish. Shortly after graduation, I moved to Madison, WI, to begin my early career at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. After three years working as a full-time research specialist and developing my own passions within research and service, I am excited to continue my journey to become a clinician-scientist in occupational therapy and occupational science. My research interests include relationships between movement and holistic well-being, as well as occupational therapy interventions to support dementia care and lived experiences of people living with dementia and their care partners.

Emily Angell

I am a PhD student in the School of Kinesiology with an emphasis in Occupational Studies. I am honored to have Dr. Fields as my graduate advisor and mentor!

I am an occupational therapist, entrepreneur, and inventor. I have been practicing occupational therapy for six years in various settings, including acute care, outpatient, skilled nursing, home health, and telehealth. I currently practice OT via telehealth and consult for adult/geriatric-specific sensory integration, dementia care, and the application of sensory intervention in the skilled nursing setting. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends in my personal life. I got married in January 2024, have two cats named Olive and Lemon, and enjoy being a part of Heartland Church in Sun Prairie.

Abby Hays

My name is Abby, and I’m originally from Indianapolis, Indiana. I am an OTD student. I did my undergraduate studies in psychology at the University of Notre Dame, which means this is the first time I’ve lived in Wisconsin! I spent the last year working as a volunteer CNA in a residential facility for adults with disabilities in Chicago. I was attracted to the Geriatric Health Services Lab because of my previous work with therapeutic horseback riding and hippotherapy, which is also what initially drew me to occupational therapy. In my free time, I love to go for runs and watch college hockey!

Roxy Geballe

I am an OTD student from Glen Ellyn, Illinois. I graduated from Elon University in North Carolina with a major in exercise science and a minor in psychology. My research at Elon focused on the role of music in physical rehabilitation. I am excited to explore a multifaceted approach to occupational therapy, such as hippotherapy, in the Geriatric Health Services Research Lab. In my free time, I love to play the piano and guitar, spend time outdoors, and explore Madison.

Maddie Miller

I am an occupational therapy doctoral student and a member of the GHSRL. I went to the University of St. Thomas where I earned my bachelor’s degree in exercise science. My research interests include neurological conditions common in the geriatric population and how community engagement impacts their progression.

Danielle Wild

I am an occupational therapy doctoral student and a member of the Geriatric Health Services Research Lab. Graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I received my Bachelor of Science in Health Promotion and Health Equity. I also completed certificates in Disability Rights & Services and Athletic Healthcare. Having passions for advancing accessibility and understanding evidence-based approaches to patient and family-centered care, I look forward to learning valuable experience in the GHSRL! Outside of school, I enjoy running, sipping on a good cup of coffee, and spending time with family and friends.

Emma Hoffmann

I am an OTD student here at UW Madison. I am from Andover, MN and I completed my bachelor’s degree in Movement Science at Winona State University. I am passionate about helping people of all ages do the things they want and need to do in everyday life. I have worked with various populations spanning from pediatrics to geriatrics. Within the Geriatric Health Services Lab, I am interested in researching individuals who have Dementia and their caregivers and I’m also interested in researching aging in place. In my free time, I enjoy reading, going to the gym, spending time outside, and finding new coffee shops!

Julia Beck

I am an occupational therapy doctoral student and a member of the GHSRL. I graduated from Winona State University with a major in movement science and minors in psychology and nutrition. My research interests include learning more about the geriatric population and how to support older adults and their families in the community. I am passionate about helping others maintain their independence and live their lives to the fullest! Outside of school I love to go on walks, go to concerts, and spend time with my friends and family.

Rylie Hechel

I am an occupational therapy doctoral student and a member of the GHSRL. I went to University of Wisconsin – Madison for Human Development and Family Studies. My research interests include play across the lifespan, individuals with intellectual disabilities, and aquatic occupational therapy. Outside of school I am passionate about exploring Madison, spending time with my family, and finding new ways to move my body!

Undergraduate Students

 

Henry Karelitz

Hello, I am from Saint Paul, Minnesota, and currently an undergraduate student here at UW-Madison. I am passionate about healthcare and am studying Kinesiology with certificates in leadership and global health. I am also working towards getting my EMT certification, with the ultimate goal of attending PA school. Besides research, I am involved in various clubs, including Badger for Special Olympics, Track Club, Nordic Skiing Club, and Emergency Medical Services Club. Outside of Academics, I enjoy running, biking, attending sporting events, and exploring Madison.

Katie McCaskey

I am an undergraduate majoring in Kinesiology with certificates in Disability Rights & Services and Promoting Activity for Diverse Abilities. I intend to further my education at the doctoral level in occupational therapy. I am inspired to pursue this career by having the opportunity to observe just how influential OT can be for some of my family members with varying disabilities. Getting to see their growth in such unique ways truly motivates me to take the creative challenge of being an OT. I’ve also recently found a passion for hippotherapy and equine-assisted therapies after having the opportunity to lead such practices at Lifestriders in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Outside of school, I currently work as a certified nursing assistant, am an active member of Diverse-OT, and spend my time advocating for CASA through my sorority Kappa Alpha Theta. I look forward to exploring the research side of occupational therapy in hopes of learning how to implement such practices into my own future research projects.

Tatum Norris

I am an undergraduate student at UW-Madison studying Health Promotion and Health Equity, with certificates in Disability Rights and Services and in Pilates. After I complete my undergraduate degree, I hope to continue my education and become an Occupational Therapist. My experiences teaching adaptive dance and swim classes and being a rehabilitation- aide have allowed me to strengthen my passion for promoting inclusivity especially for movement-based activities. I am so excited to be a part of the GHSRL and to learn more about effective programs that benefit geriatric patients and their caregivers. Outside of school and work I enjoy spending time with my friends, family, and dog!

Luke Busse

I’m studying rehabilitation psychology while also pursuing a certificate in disability rights and services. After undergrad, my hope is to continue my education and get a master’s degree or doctorate in occupational therapy. I’m excited to start this career and begin finding creative and meaningful ways to promote independence for individuals struggling with quality of life. Outside of school I participate in the leadership in adapted fitness program and currently work at the St. Mary’s hospital as a rehab aide. I’m excited to get more involved into a research focused lab and gain new experience.

Alumni

Allie Carlson 2024-2025
Benazir Meera
2023-2025
Jenna Sanders
2023-2025
Gretchen Tran
2023-2024
Madie Larsen
2023-2024
Lauryn Kinney
2023-2024
Corrina Holcomb
2023-2024
Chloe Muntefering 2020-2024
Becca Warzyn 2022-2024
Ella Schroeder 2023-2024
Junha Park 2021-2024
Sydney Lundell
2021-2024
Andrea Yahr
2021-2024
Anna Avery
2024-2024
Catherine Still
2021-2024
Kate Perepezko,
2022-2024
Maddy Ahrens, 2022-2023
Katie Istvanek,
2022-2023
Zach Skrove,
2022-2023
Taylor Crnkovich, 2022-2023
Kaitlyn Vanias, 2021-2023
Bianca Karibian, 2021-2023
Tori Greer, 2022-2023
Kelsey Johnson, 2021-2022
McKenzie Fitzpatrick, 2021-2022
Anna Englund, 2021-2022
Weston Dixon, 2021-2022
Maddie Carbery, August 2019-August 2022
Sam Langenbach, October 2020-May 2021
Olivia Condon, August 2020-May 2021
Dann Hekman, August 2020-June 2021
Alicia Oestreich, May 2020-May 2021
Lesley Thao, January 2020-May 2021
Anne Mueller, January 2020-May 2021
Samantha Schwartz, August 2019-May 2021

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Ongoing Research

UTILIZING EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES TO SUPPORT AGING IN PLACE

FALL 2025-PRESENT
Partners: School of Human Ecology, Cornell, Rainbow Community Care, National Science Foundation

The goal of this study is to build upon our previous ARHAT research and utilize emerging technologies by offering a guided full-home assessment.

D-CHAT STUDY

WINTER 2022-PRESENT
Partners: UW Health, Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (NIA-K23AG080068)

The goal of this study is to adapt and test the Care Partner Hospital Assessment Tool for hospital-based dementia care. Findings from this pilot randomized controlled trial will enable future efficacy trials to advance the implementation of the decision-support tool that can enhance caregiving preparedness to improve health outcomes after hospital discharge.

RIDING IN THE MOMENT TM

SUMMER 2020-PRESENT
Partners: UW CAARN, Beaming, Inc., Three Gaits, Inc., Aging Networks
The goal of this study is to raise awareness and inform the implementation of Riding in the MomentTM at therapeutic horseback riding facilities in Wisconsin. Riding in the Moment is an evidence- and community-based program that was designed to increase the quality of life of older adults with dementia and their families residing in Colorado. Our study team will collaborate with community partners, including older adults with dementia and their families, riding instructors, social service providers, and community volunteers at Wisconsin therapeutic horseback riding facilities, to identify potential facilitators and barriers to implementing the program. Wisconsin Partnership Program is a funding source for this study.
Implementation and curriculum manuals were developed by our study team and are available for purchase online: https://heartsandhorses.dcopy.net/Janet’s Story

Completed Projects

CAPABLE STUDY

ONGOING 2019-SPRING 2025
Partners: Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging (HHS-2019-ACL-NIDILRR-RTGE-0342)
The goal of this study is to increase access to CAPABLE, an evidence-based program, to older adults and their families who do not qualify for Medicaid and cannot afford these services. CAPABLE is an established intervention designed to support older adults with activity limitations by helping them successfully age-in-place. Our study team (composed of investigators at the UW-Madison and the University of Pittsburgh) will scale-up and disseminate the CAPABLE intervention with a focus on family-centered care delivery through a regional Area Agency on Aging.

A-SHIFT STUDY

FALL 2022-2024
Partners: UW Health, National Center on Family Support at the University of Pittsburgh, Johns Hopkins, Indiana University (NIA-R21AG077439)
The goal of this study is to develop the Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) Systematic Hospital Inclusion Family Toolkit (A-SHIFT) to prepare care partners of people living with ADRD for their caregiving responsibilities after hospital discharge. A-SHIFT will provide healthcare systems strategies on when and how to identify care partners, tools for assessing care partner needs and preparedness, and methods for training them to meet caregiving demands.

CHAT STUDY

SUMMER 2020-SUMMER 2022
PARTNERS: UW HEALTH SYSTEM, UW SURVEY CENTER (NIA-1 R03 AG062848-01A1)
The goal of the Caregiver Hospital Assessment Tool (CHAT) is to identify the needs of family caregivers of hospitalized older adults. The creation of this assessment tool will help guide healthcare providers’ clinical decision making and delivery of caregiver training in hospital settings. Our study team will use a convergent mixed-method approach to develop and iteratively refine the CHAT.

ICP STUDY

FALL 2020-SUMMER 2021
PARTNERS: UW CLINICAL & HEALTH INFORMATICS INSTITUTE (UW VCRGE)
The goal of this study was to increase understanding of contemporary patient and family-centered cancer education by describing interprofessional collaborative practice (ICP). ICP is a model in which multiple healthcare providers work together with patients and family caregivers to deliver the highest quality services.

ARHAT STUDY

  SUMMER 2021-PRESENT
PARTNERS: SCHOOL OF HUMAN ECOLOGY RRF FOUNDATION FOR AGING
The goal of this study is to develop and validate an augmented reality home assessment tool (ARHAT) to aid in modifying homes for people with disabilities. This work is critical to support the increasing number of people that have a desire to safely and independently age in place.

Resources

ASHIFT: How to Include Caregivers in the Care of Patients Living with Dementia

A Caregiver’s Guide to Support the Transition from Hospital to Home

Best Practices for In-Home Visitors During COVID-19

Telehealth Helpful Tips

How-to: Use Zoom for Mac Computers

How-to: Use Zoom for PC Computers

How-to: Use Skype for Mac Computers

How-to: Use Skype for PC Computers

How-to: Use FaceTime for MAC Computers file

How-to: Join WebEx from an email invite

Press

Baldwin Seed Project Funding for the Riding in the Moment Project: Preparing Community Partners to Enhance Dementia Quality of Life

Riding in the Moment project featured on ABC news!

News on Family Caregiving:

Wisconsin Task Force on Caregiving Approves Recommendations to Address Direct Care Workforce Shortage

Caregiving in the U.S. 2020 Report

Long-Term Care Workforce Report Shows That Wisconsin Must Address Caregiver Shortage

The Big Number: 20 million caregivers perform complex medical and nursing tasks

Does America Care About Care? Not Enough

RAISE Family Caregivers Act Initial Report to Congress

Valuing the Invaluable 2019 Update: Charting a Path Forward

National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP)  officially launched the RAISE Resource and Dissemination Center

Publications

Recent Publications:

Implementing CAPABLE with Care Partners Through an Area Agency on Aging

Evaluating the Appropriateness and Feasibility of the Care Partner Hospital Assessment Tool

Stakeholders’ Perspectives on the Safety of an Adaptive Riding Program for Adults with Dementia

Education and Skills Training for Care Partners of Hospitalised Older Adults: A Scoping Review

Community Aging in Place, Advancing Better Living for Elders (CAPABLE) program: Understanding the potential involvement of care partners

Stimulating Research to Enhance Aging in Place

Cultural Influence on the Implementation of Strategy Training

Development and Content Validation of the Care Partner Hospital Assessment Tool

Exploration of Patient and Caregiver Cancer Education using Electronic Health Records

Hospital to Home Discharge Interventions for Older Adults: Scoping Review

Engaging Stakeholders to Implement an Aging in Place Intervention through an Area Agency on Aging

Including Caregivers in the Community Aging in Place, Advancing Better Living for Elders Program

How Health Care Interactions Contribute to Burden for Care Partners of Older Adults

Hippotherapy Practice and Safety Patterns in the United States: A Descriptive Survey Study

Caregiver role development in chronic disease: A qualitative study of informal caregiving for veterans with diabetes

For a complete up-to-date list of Dr. Fields’ publications, please visit this website.

PROSPECTIVE GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTS, POST-DOCTORAL TRAINEES, OR STAFF OPENINGS

No current openings.

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

The Geriatric Health Services Research Lab is currently not accepting undergraduate students into the lab.