Bei Wu

Faculty

Bei Wu headshot

Bei Wu

FAAN FGSA PhD

Dean's Professor in Global Health
Vice Dean, Research
Affiliated Professor, Ashman Department of Periodontology & Implant Dentistry
Co-director, NYU Aging Incubator

1 212 992 5951

433 First Ave
New York, NY 10010
United States

Accepting PhD students

Dr. Wu is Dean’s Professor in Global Health and Vice Dean for Research at the NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing. She is an inaugural Co-Director of the NYU Aging Incubator. Prior to joining NYU, she was the Pauline Gratz Professor of Nursing at Duke University School of Nursing. Prof. Wu is an internationally-known leader in gerontology.

As a principal investigator, Prof. Wu has led numerous projects supported by federal agencies and private foundations, including the NIH and CDC. She is currently leading several NIH-funded projects including a clinical trial to improve oral health for persons

with cognitive impairment, and a large secondary data analysis to examine how the co-occurrence of diabetes and poor oral health may lead to the development of dementia and cognitive decline. She co-leads the newly funded Rutgers-NYU Center for Asian Health Promotion and Equity. Through this center, she also leads a 5-year intervention study that focuses on supporting Chinese and Korean dementia caregivers who are at increased risk for high blood pressure and diabetes due to the physical and emotional demands of caregiving. She is a director of the Research and Education Core for the NIA-funded Asian Resource Center for Minority Aging Research (RCMAR).

As a scholar, Prof. Wu is an internationally known leader in gerontology. Her scholarship has been distinguished by interdisciplinary collaborations with researchers in various disciplines, including nursing and dentistry, in the US and abroad. Her research areas cover a wide range of topics related to aging and global health, including oral health, long-term care, dementia, and caregiving. She is one of the first in the nation to study the linkages between oral health and cognitive decline in older adults. Her research has also addressed knowledge gaps in the linkages between oral health and diabetes.

Prof. Wu has devoted much of her time to training the next generation of aging and nursing scientists from dozens of academic institutions in the U.S. and abroad. She has mentored hundreds of faculty members, visiting scholars, and students from various disciplines, including nursing, gerontology, dentistry, medicine, social work, demography, public health, sociology, public policy, geography, and economics. She is successful in mentoring several dozens of early-stage faculty members in receiving competitive funding from NIH, Robert Wood Johnson Scholars, the Alzheimer’s Society (UK), National Science Foundation of China, China Medical Board, National Medical Research Council (Singapore), and many others. 

Prof. Wu is a productive researcher. She has published more than 600 peer-reviewed papers, books, reports, and conference abstracts. Her extensive publications cover a wide range of topics related to aging and global health. She has delivered presentations at hundreds of conferences as an invited speaker. Her work has been widely recognized in the field. Research findings from her team have been featured by the National Institute on Aging, and in numerous media outlets, including the New York Times, CNN, BBC, U.S. News and World Report, MarketWatch, CBS News, Reuters, AARP Bulletin, China Daily, Daily Mail, South China Morning Post, and Financial Review.

Her achievement has been recognized by many international and national organizations and she is a fellow of the Gerontological Society of America, the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education, and the New York Academy of Medicine. She is an honorary member of the Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International, and is the former president of the Geriatric Oral Research Group of the International Association for Dental Research. She has served on a number of NIH review panels and is a frequent reviewer for multiple international funding agencies. She was honored as the 2017 IADR Distinguished Scientist in Geriatric Oral Research. She is the recipient of the 2022 Wei Hu Inspiration Award from the China Health Policy and Management Society. 

PhD - Gerontology Center, University of Massachusetts, Boston
MS - Gerontology Center, University of Massachusetts, Boston
BS - Shanghai University

Gerontology
Global

Honorary Member, Sigma Theta Tau International - Honor Society of Nursing

Distinguished Scientist Award for Geriatric Oral Research, International Association for Dental Research (2017)
Pauline Gratz Professorship, Duke University School of Nursing (2014)
J. Morita Junior Investigator Award in Geriatric Oral Health, International Association for Dental Research (2007)
Fellow, Gerontological Society of America
Fellow, New York Academy of Medicine
Fellow, Association for Gerontology in Higher Education

Improving Care for Older Adults in China: Development of Long-Term Care Policy and System

Wu, B., Cohen, M. A., Cong, Z., Kim, K., & Peng, C. (2021). Research on Aging, 43(3), 123-126. 10.1177/0164027521990829
Abstract
Abstract
This special issue covers several important topics related to long-term care (LTC) systems and policy development in China. It provides a good contextual background on the development of the LTC system in China as well as the needs and preferences of LTC from family and older adults’ perspectives. In addition, this issue covers the topic of evaluation of a recently developed long-term care nursing insurance and provides an example of family caregiving for persons with dementia within the Chinese context. The authors in this special issue also provided insights into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on older adults’ life and LTC quality, and explored potential strategies to handle the challenges during and post-pandemic.

Living With Cognitive Impairment in China: Exploring Dyadic Experiences Through a Person-Centered Care Lens

Wang, J., Corazzini, K. N., McConnell, E. S., Ding, D., Xu, H., Wei, S., & Wu, B. (2021). Research on Aging, 43(3), 177-187. 10.1177/0164027520935597
Abstract
Abstract
China has experienced a substantial increase in the number of older adults with dementia and milder forms of cognitive impairment. Being spouses of Persons with cognitive impairment (PWCI) and living with them for several decades does not necessarily mean that it is easier for them to provide person-centered care and maintain a valued and healthy relationship. The current study explored how elements of PCC, as operationalized by the Senses Framework, operate or fail to operate in the dyadic experiences of PWCI and their spousal care partners within the socio-cultural context of China. Our findings suggest that PWCI and their spouses experience the six senses through the person-centeredness in their daily interactions with each other. It also indicated successes and challenges to being person-centered early in the disease and identified their unmet needs as well as barriers and facilitators to improve their well-being.

Longitudinal Association Between Hearing Loss, Vision Loss, Dual Sensory Loss, and Cognitive Decline

Ge, S., McConnell, E. S., Wu, B., Pan, W., Dong, X. Q., & Plassman, B. L. (2021). Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 69(3), 644-650. 10.1111/jgs.16933
Abstract
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: To better understand the role of sensory loss as a potentially modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline, this study examined cognitive decline in relation to single modality hearing or vision loss and dual sensory loss. DESIGN: Longitudinal secondary data analysis. SETTING: The Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and its supplement: The Aging, Demographics, and Memory Study (ADAMS). PARTICIPANTS: Individuals aged 73 and older (N = 295). MEASUREMENTS: Hearing loss was defined by an inability to hear sounds of 25 dB at frequencies between 0.5 and 4.0 kHz in either ear. Vision loss was defined as having corrected binocular vision worse than 20/40. Dual sensory loss was defined as having both hearing and vision loss. We used one time point of hearing and vision data objectively measured in ADAMS Wave C (June 2006–May 2008) and five waves of cognitive function data measured by the HRS version of the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status in HRS (2006–2014). Multilevel mixed models were used. RESULTS: Among the participants, 271 completed a hearing assessment and 120 had hearing loss; 292 completed a vision assessment and 115 had vision loss; 52 had dual sensory loss. Older adults with hearing loss had a significantly faster rate of cognitive decline as they aged compared to those with normal hearing (β = −0.16, P <.05). No significant association was found between vision loss and the rate of cognitive decline (β = −0.06, P =.41). Older adults who had dual sensory loss likewise had a significantly faster rate of cognitive decline as they age (β = −0.23, P <.05) compared to those with no sensory loss. CONCLUSION: Older adults with hearing loss and dual sensory loss have faster rates of cognitive decline than those with normal sensory function.

The patterns of caregiving activities for family caregivers of older adults in hong kong: An exploratory latent class analysis

Huang, J., Chau, P. H., Choi, E. P. H., Wu, B., & Lou, V. W. (2021). Journals of Gerontology - Series B Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences, 76(8), 1605-1616. 10.1093/geronb/gbaa203
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives: This study identified the classes (i.e., patterns) of caregivers' activities, based on their engagements in caregiving activities, and explored the characteristics and the caregiver burden of these classes. Methods: This study was a secondary analysis of a cross-sectional survey on the profiles of family caregivers of older adults in Hong Kong. A latent class analysis approach was adopted to classify family caregivers (N = 932) according to their routine involvements in 17 daily caregiving activities: 6 activities of daily living (ADLs) and 8 instrumental activities of daily living activities (IADLs) in addition to emotional support, decision making, and financial support. Multinomial logistic regression and multiple linear regression illuminated the characteristics of the classes and compared their levels of caregiver burden. Results: The family caregivers fell into 5 classes: All-Round Care (High Demand, 19.5%), All-Round Care (Moderate Demand, 8.2%), Predominant IADLs Care (High Demand, 23.8%), Predominant IADLs Care (Moderate Demand, 32.5%), and Minimal ADLs and IADLs Care (Low Demand, 16.0%). These classes exhibited different characteristics in terms of care recipients' cognitive statuses and caregiver backgrounds. The levels of caregiver burden differed across classes; the All-Round Care (High Demand) class experienced the highest levels of caregiver burden. Discussion: This study contributes to existing scholarship by turning away from a predefined category of care tasks to explore the patterns of caregiving activities. By identifying caregiving activity patterns and understanding their associated characteristics and caregiver burden, prioritizing and targeting caregiver support interventions better is possible.

Perceived discrimination and mental health symptoms among persons living with HIV in China: the mediating role of social isolation and loneliness

Han, S., Hu, Y., Wang, L., Pei, Y., Zhu, Z., Qi, X., & Wu, B. (2021). AIDS Care - Psychological and Socio-Medical Aspects of AIDS HIV, 33(5), 575-584. 10.1080/09540121.2020.1847246
Abstract
Abstract
Perceived discrimination is significantly associated with mental health symptoms among persons living with HIV (PLWH). However, little is known about the factors mediating this relationship. We aimed to examine the mediating role of social isolation and loneliness in the association between perceived discrimination and mental health symptoms among PLWH. A multicenter (Shanghai, Kunming, Nanning, Hengyang, and Changning in China) cross-sectional study was conducted in 2017. Data from 883 PLWH were used for statistical analysis. Perceived discrimination, mental health symptoms, loneliness and social isolation were assessed through self-report questionnaires. Structural equation modeling (SEM) showed a satisfactory model fit (CMIN/DF = 2.676, GFI = 0.998, CFI = 0.997, NFI = 0.995, TLI = 0.985, RMSEA = 0.044 [0.000, 0.090]) and a significant total indirect effect (β = 0.058, SE = 0.009, Z = 6.444, p < 0.01). Both loneliness (β = 0.042, SE = 0.008, Z = −5.250, p < 0.01) and social isolation (β = 0.016, SE = 0.004, Z = −4.000, p < 0.01) were determined to be significant mediators of the association between perceived discrimination and mental health symptoms. Interventions that combat loneliness and social isolation may help ameliorate the adverse consequences of perceived discrimination on mental health.

Perceived Discrimination and Symptoms of Cognitive Dysfuntion among Middle-Age and Older Persons Living with HIV in China: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study of the Mediating Role of Mental Health Symptoms and Social Isolation

Han, S., Hu, Y., Wang, L., Pei, Y., Zhu, Z., Qi, X., & Wu, B. (2021). Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care, 32(4), 442-452. 10.1097/JNC.0000000000000264
Abstract
Abstract
Perceived discrimination is associated with symptoms of cognitive dysfunction (SOCD) among middle-age and older persons living with HIV (PLWH). We aimed to explore how the association between perceived discrimination and SOCD was mediated by mental health symptoms and social isolation. The sample included 321 PLWH, ages 45 years and older, for a multicenter cross-sectional study. Structural equation modeling showed an acceptable model fit and a significant total indirect effect between perceived discrimination and SOCD. All three indirect effect pathways were significant, suggesting that perceived discrimination could influence SOCD through mental health symptoms, through social isolation, or through mental health symptoms and then social isolation. Our study demonstrates that perceived discrimination is a concern for the management of cognitive function among middle-age and older PLWH. Both mental health symptoms and social isolation are critical elements in the design and evaluation of interventions for promoting cognitive health.

Person-Centered Communication between Health Care Professionals and COVID-19-Infected Older Adults in Acute Care Settings: Findings from Wuhan, China

Li, J., Wang, J., Kong, X., Gao, T., Wu, B., Liu, J., & Chu, J. (2021). Journals of Gerontology - Series B Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences, 76(4), E225-E229. 10.1093/geronb/gbaa190
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives: The current study aims to explore person-centered communication between health care professionals and COVID-19-infected older patients in acute care settings. Methods: The current qualitative study explored the communication between professionals and COVID-19-infected older adults in the acute care setting through 2 rounds of interviews with physicians and nurses who provided direct care and treatment for COVID-19-infected older patients in Wuhan, China. We explored the possibilities and significance of facilitating effective communication despite multiple challenges in the pandemic. Conventional content analysis was adopted to analyze the rich data collected from our participants. Results: It is possible and necessary to initiate and sustain person-centered communication despite multiple challenges brought by the pandemic. The achievement of person-centered communication can play significant roles in addressing challenges, building mutual trust, improving quality of care and relationships, and promoting treatment adherence and patients' psychological well-being. Discussion: It is challenging for health care professionals to provide care for COVID-19-infected older adults, especially for those with cognitive and sensory impairment, in acute care settings. Facilitating person-centered communication is a significant strategy in responding to the pandemic crisis and a core element of person-centered care.

Psychological Pathways Linking Parent-Child Relationships to Objective and Subjective Sleep among Older Adults

Wang, H., Kim, K., Burr, J. A., & Wu, B. (2021). Journals of Gerontology - Series B Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences, 76(10), 1972-1982. 10.1093/geronb/gbab013
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives: This study investigated whether older adults with better relationships with their adult children have better subjective and objective sleep quality than older adults with less-positive relationships with their children. We also examined whether depressive symptoms and loneliness mediated the association between parent-child relationships and sleep among older adults. Methods: Data were used from the second wave of the National Social life, Health, and Aging Project, in which 548 respondents (aged 62-90) participated in the sleep survey to measure their actigraph sleep activity for three consecutive days. Respondents also reported sleep quality (i.e., sleep duration and insomnia symptoms), contact frequency, and emotional closeness with their children. Results: Results from structural equation modeling showed that greater emotional closeness with children was directly associated with better objective sleep characteristics (i.e., sleep fragmentation and amount of sleep). Also, more frequent contact with children was directly related to fewer insomnia symptoms among older adults. Moreover, emotional closeness with children was indirectly linked to insomnia symptoms via depressive symptoms among older adults. Discussion: This study provided evidence for psychological pathways linking parent-child relationships and older parents' subjective sleep. The findings have implications for health professionals and family counselors who help people with sleep problems and relationship difficulties.

Self-rated health as a mediator between physical health conditions and depressive symptoms in older Chinese and Korean Americans

Jang, Y., Yoon, H., Li, M., Park, N. S., Chiriboga, D. A., Wu, B., Dong, X. Q., & Kim, M. T. (2021). PloS One, 16(1). 10.1371/journal.pone.0245136
Abstract
Abstract
In the present study, we examined self-rated health as a mediator between physical health conditions (chronic diseases and functional disability) and depressive symptoms in older Chinese and Korean Americans. Using harmonized data (N = 5,063) from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly (PINE) and the Study of Older Korean Americans (SOKA), we tested direct and indirect effect models. In both groups, chronic diseases and functional disability were closely associated with negative ratings of health and symptoms of depression. Analyses with the PROCESS macro showed that the effect of chronic diseases and functional disability on depressive symptoms was mediated by self-rated health in both groups; the indirect effect was greater in the Korean American sample than in the Chinese American sample. These findings contribute to the understanding of the psychological mechanisms that underlie the mind-body connection and highlight the potential importance of subjective health assessment as a useful tool for health promotion.

Sleep satisfaction and cognitive complaints in Chinese middle-aged and older persons living with HIV: the mediating role of anxiety and fatigue

Han, S., Hu, Y., Pei, Y., Zhu, Z., Qi, X., & Wu, B. (2021). AIDS Care - Psychological and Socio-Medical Aspects of AIDS HIV, 33(7), 929-937. 10.1080/09540121.2020.1844861
Abstract
Abstract
Middle-aged and older persons living with HIV (PLWH) suffer from sleep distress and cognitive disorders due to HIV infection and aging. We aim to explore the relationship between sleep satisfaction and cognitive complaints, and the mediating role of anxiety and fatigue in this relationship among middle-aged and older PLWH. We used data from a multicenter cross-sectional study in China (Shanghai, Kunming, Nanning, Hengyang, and Changning) conducted in 2017. The data analysis included 435 PLWH aged 45 years and over. Multiple linear regression models showed that worse sleep satisfaction was significantly associated with lower cognitive complaints after controlling for anxiety, fatigue, demographic variables, and clinical variables (β = −0.246, p < 0.01). Both anxiety and fatigue were significant partial mediators in the relationship between sleep satisfaction and cognitive complaints. The serial multiple mediation models of sleep satisfaction–anxiety (M1)–fatigue (M2)–cognitive complaints were supported and the alternative model of sleep satisfaction–fatigue (M2)–anxiety (M1)–cognitive complaints were both supported. Our study indicates that it is important to improve sleep quality to promote cognitive function among Chinese middle-aged and older PLWH. Prevention and treatment programs for sleep satisfaction and cognitive function should include the assessment and reduction of fatigue and anxiety.