DR. KALI ST. MARIE THOMAS was recently chosen as the 2016 recipient of the Carroll L. Estes Rising Star Award, given annually by the Gerontological Society of America to a member in acknowledgement of outstanding early-career contributions in social research, policy and practice. Thomas is an assistant professor in the Department of Health Services, Policy and Practice at Brown University and research health science specialist at the Providence VA Medical Center.
Can you speak on how gerontology research links health care to social advocacy and policymaking?
As it has been well-documented, our population is aging rapidly and the time for action is now. Through applied research in gerontology, we are able to provide evidence that can be used by aging-services advocates and thereby inform policymaking.
Why did you choose to study gerontology initially? What are your current research goals?
My choice to study gerontology grew out of my fondness for the older loved ones in my life and my frustrations in watching them shuffled through the long-term care system with little respect for who they were and their individual needs. My research aims to transform the delivery of long-term services and supports for older individuals through rigorous evaluation and applied health-services research.
As an assistant professor at Brown University, how do you “sell” gerontology research to young students who may not take it seriously as a career option?
It is by putting a face on the aging population and making it personal for students that educators can persuade them to see how they can affect the way we care for our relatives, friends and neighbors.
How can improved care and services for R.I.’s elder population positively influence the state overall?
A robust network of care solutions catered towerd an aging population is essential not only for providing an adequate quality of life for our residents, but for making Rhode Island an attractive place to live in all phases of one’s life. •
