About Us
Our mission is to empower caregivers through innovative, research-informed tools that improve the emotional, cognitive, and social well-being of older adults living with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD).
We utilize an evidence-based approach that blends emotional and cognitive responses with medical insight to explore the healing potential of non-pharmacological interventions. Our research focuses on how strategies centered around music and social engagement can help reduce symptoms such as agitation, anxiety, and isolation.
Our work includes several ongoing research initiatives:
The Visually Assisted Music Learning (VAMML) study explores how curated music playlists and visual stimuli can reduce behavioral symptoms and promote social interaction in memory care facilities.
Our Music to Support Engagement and Resilience (MUSER) project uses a personalized music app designed to support individuals with dementia at home while improving caregivers’ mental health.
Through Read2Connect, we assess how social reading sessions can nurture connection and reduce agitation among residents in long-term care.
At PAL, we believe that aging with dignity and joy is possible. By blending research with compassion, we work to develop accessible programs and resources that enhance the holistic well-being and individuality of those affected by Alzheimer’s and dementi
Meet The Team
Principal Investigator
Dr. Hongdao Meng, M.D., M.P.H., Ph.D.
​Dr. Hongdao Meng studies integrative health care interventions, leveraging his expertise in medicine, public health, and health economics to improve clinical and community outcomes.
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Lab Manager
Natalie Vacanti
Natalie Vacanti recently graduated from USF with a B.S. in Biology and B.A. in Psychology and is pursuing a career in medicine. She joined the lab after working as a memory care caregiver, where she developed a passion for promoting quality of life in older adults through non-pharmacological interventions.
Lab Manager
Ciara Calderon
Ciara Calderon is a Lab Manager.
Lead Research Assistants
PhD Student
Chirantana Dayanandaswamy
Chirantana Dayanandaswamy graduated with her B.S in Biomedical Sciences from USF. She is currently a PhD Student in the department of Aging Studies. She joined the lab because the non-pharmacological interventions for dementia piqued her interest.​
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Chart Review Specialist
Rebecca Swatsburg
Rebecca Swatsburg is a senior studying Biomedical Sciences with a minor in Nutrition and aspires to become a physician. She joined the Positive Aging Lab to gain meaningful research experience while exploring her interest in patient-centered care and the aging population.
Lead Research Assistant (MUSER Team)
Sofia Figueroa
Sofia is the lead research assistant for the MUSER team.
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Lead Research Assistant (Data Team)
Constanza Bravo Rodriguez
Constanza Bravo recently graduated from USF with a B.S. in Health Sciences and a B.A. in Psychology, and aspires to become a neuropsychologist. She joined the lab seeking to contribute to aging studies. With additional experience in bilingual patient navigation and cognitive rehabilitation, Constanza is passionate about non-pharmacological therapies that support neurodegenerative conditions.
Lead Research Assistant (Playlist Team)
Pranali Patel
Pranali Patel is a Biology Major with a Double Minor in Nutrition and Psychology. She aspires to become a Physician and serve her community. She joined PAL because of her genuine love for music and a belief that it has the power of healing, and for the opportunity to gain hands-on research experience while making a meaningful contribution to the well-being of those around her.
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Lead Research Assistant (Behavioral Coding & Website Team)
Victoria Figueroa
Victoria Figueroa is a master’s student studying Aging and Neuroscience. She aspires to become a neuropsychologist specializing in older adults. Driven by her passion for aging and mental health, Victoria joined the lab to gain valuable research experience and contribute to work that supports the health and well-being of older adults
Lead Research Assistant (Facilitation Team)
Isabella Piccolo
Isabella Piccolo recently graduated at USF with a B.A. in Psychology and is currently pursuing a second degree. She aspires to become a Neurologist. Isabella joined the Positive Aging Lab to gain hands-on experience in research and working with older adults in memory care.
Volunteer Research Assistants
Aleena Santhosh, Alena Qerimaj, Amelia Calderon, Anastasia Crider, Anastasia Pargoe, Avery Moriyasu, Bridget Hein, Callie Brown, Denise Pitocco, Nathan Le, Kaley Rodriguez, Lyon Naumann, Moriah Lee, Neelam Dewansingh, Pranali Patel, Rasika Selva, Siri Amuluru, Solomon Usoro