Rebecca Lorenz

Dr. Rebecca Lorenz’s research is focused on sleep in middle-aged and older adults – particularly those with neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis – and their caregivers. Recent investigation has explored non-pharmacological, person-centered interventions (e.g., mindfulness, exercise) to improve sleep/wake patterns and provide methods for symptom self-management. She also conducted research to identify pathways to disparities in sleep health in middle-aged and older adults (a known cause of chronic health conditions such as impairments in memory and concentration) using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), the largest and the most comprehensive multidisciplinary panel study in the U.S. The findings of her research have the potential to significantly improve the quality of life of middle-aged and older adults because disrupted sleep/wake rhythms contribute to depression, fatigue and disability.

Sample of published research via PubMed