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Signature Seminar Series: Behavioural Medicine in Aging and Palliative Care: Research Insights for Integrated Collaborative Care
ABOUT THE LECTURE:
This talk will focus on supportive care strategies and opportunities for multidisciplinary research collaboration in aging and palliative care. Globally, by 2030, one in six people will be aged 60 or older, and this population is expected to double by 2050. As populations continue to age, more older adults are living with serious chronic illnesses, such as cancer or dementia, and often face significant psychological challenges. When mental health needs are unaddressed, adaptive coping is compromised, physical symptoms worsen, treatment adherence may decline, and quality of life is threatened. Despite this evidence, stigma, discomfort, and access barriers contribute to underutilisation of supportive care and mental health services. Care partners and families are also underengaged despite their central role in care. This talk will highlight current research supporting integrated, person-centered palliative care models, including interventions that reduce distress, enhance coping, and incorporate caregivers. Dr. Ramos will conclude by identifying research gaps and opportunities for collaboration to advance scalable, equitable supportive care for older adults.
HOST:
Prof Eric Finkelstein
Executive Director
Lien Centre for Palliative Care
Duke-NUS Medical School
VENUE:
Duke-NUS Medical School
Amphitheatre, Level 2
CONTACT PERSON:
Ms Kathleen Chan (kathleen.chan@duke-nus.edu.sg)
Duke-NUS Research Affairs Department
Date and Time
27 Jan 2026 @ 12:00 - 27 Jan 2026 @ 13:00
Speaker
Dr Katherine Ramos
Associate Professor
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences
Duke University School of Medicine
Dr. Ramos
is an Associate Professor at Duke University in the Psychiatry department with
secondary appointments in Medicine (Geriatrics and Palliative Care) and
Population Health Sciences. A geropsychologist (who is part of the 1 % of U.S.
psychologists with formal training in this field), she develops behavioural interventions
for older adults and families facing serious illness. She is funded by the
National Institutes of Health and the Glioblastoma Foundation, and holds
national leadership roles in professional organisations.