The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) has chosen retired social worker Elaine Brody to receive its 2007 M. Powell Lawton Award. The distinction recognizes a significant contribution in gerontology that has led to an innovation in gerontological treatment, practice or service, prevention, amelioration of symptoms or barriers, or a public policy change that has led to some practical application that improves the lives of older persons.
The award presentation will take place at GSA's 60th Annual Scientific Meeting, which will be held from November 16th - 20th, 2007 in San Francisco, CA. The actual conferral will occur on Monday the 19th at 1:30 p.m. at the Hilton San Francisco. The convention is organized to foster interdisciplinary interactions among clinical, administrative, and research professionals who specialize in the study of the aging process.
Brody has been a pioneer not only in the field of geriatric social work, but the broader study of aging as well. She initiated important studies of family caregiving, elder self-care, the lifecourse experience of women, and respite services. Her major book Women in the Middle was recently republished in an expanded form. She was also named Ms. Magazine's Woman of the Year in 1985. Additionally, she won GSA's Donald P. Kent Award in 1983.
The award is named in memory of M. Powell Lawton for his outstanding contributions to applied gerontological research. It also honors an individual for exemplifying one or more of Lawton's outstanding professional and personal qualities. The winner traditionally presents a lecture at the Annual Scientific Meeting the following year. The award is sponsored by the Madlyn and Leonard Abramson Center for Jewish Life's Polisher Research Institute.
The Gerontological Society of America is the nation's oldest and largest multidisciplinary organization devoted to research, education, and practice in the field of aging. The principal mission of the Society - and its 5,000+ members - is to advance the study of aging and disseminate information among scientists, decision makers, and the general public.