Bei Wu

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

Social context matters: Neighborhood environment as a moderator of the longitudinal relationship between edentulism and cognitive function among older adults in the United States

Liu, R., Qi, X., Mao, W., Luo, H., Xu, Z., & Wu, B. (2025). Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics, 133. 10.1016/j.archger.2025.105806

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Previous research has shown poor oral health and neighborhood environment are both risk factors for cognitive decline among older adults. Little research has assessed the synergistic effects of poor oral health and neighborhood environment on cognitive health. This study examined whether neighborhood environment moderates the relationship between edentulism and cognitive function over time. Methods: Using data from the Health and Retirement Study, we analyzed 9,994 adults aged 60 and older with 39,976 person-wave observations over 14 years (2006–2020). Cognitive function was measured using the modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status. Edentulism status was self-reported complete tooth loss. Neighborhood environment included perceived neighborhood cohesion and disorder. We used linear mixed-effect models to examine the moderation effect of neighborhood environment on the association between edentulism and cognitive function over time. Results: Edentulous participants (22.4 %) showed an accelerated decline over time in cognitive function compared to dentate participants (β = -0.57, 95 % CI: -0.98, -0.16). The analysis revealed that neighborhood cohesion moderated the relationship between edentulism and cognitive function over time (β = 0.08, 95 % CI: 0.01, 0.15). Specifically, among individuals reporting higher neighborhood cohesion, the negative effect of edentulism on cognitive decline was attenuated. Neighborhood disorder had no significant associations with cognitive function. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the relationship between edentulism and cognitive function varies by levels of neighborhood cohesion. The findings highlight the significance of neighborhood context in understanding the relationship between oral health and cognitive aging and suggest interventions addressing community environment may be particularly relevant for older adults with oral health challenges.

Trajectory of Cognitive Decline Across Different Racial/Ethnic Groups: The Role of Edentulism

Liu, R., Qi, X., Luo, H., & Wu, B. (2025). Research on Aging. 10.1177/01640275251315850

Abstract

Abstract

This study examines whether age-related cognitive decline varies by race/ethnicity and how edentulism moderates these effects. Data from the Health and Retirement Study (2006–2020), including 23,669 respondents aged 51 and above across 189,352 person-wave observations were analyzed. Of all respondents, 13.4% were edentulous at baseline, with 65.4% identified as non-Hispanic White, 20.5% non-Hispanic Black, and 14.18% Hispanic. Results from linear mixed-effect models indicated that compared to non-Hispanic Whites, Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black participants exhibited lower baseline cognition scores but slower cognitive decline with age. For edentulous Hispanic participants, this slower rate of decline was attenuated by 0.03 units per year (95% CI: −0.06, −0.01, p =.049). The findings highlighted the need for targeted interventions and policies to improve oral health, particularly for Hispanic populations. Addressing oral health disparities could help mitigate cognitive decline in this group and reduce cognitive health disparities across racial/ethnic groups.

Unequal Effects of the Lockdown on Mental Health in Shanghai: The Moderating and Mediating Role of Neighborhood Environment and Online Social Connections

Pei, Y., Qi, X., Li, G., Tang, W., Huang, K., Hall, B. J., & Wu, B. (2025). Journal of Community Psychology, 53(1). 10.1002/jcop.23177

Abstract

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted population mental health worldwide. Few studies examined how the neighborhood environment and online social connections might influence the social gradient in mental health during the pandemic lockdown. We aim to examine the moderating and mediating role of neighborhood environment and online social connections in the association between socioeconomic status (SES) and mental health outcomes. We conducted a cross-sectional online survey of 3763 Shanghai residents during the COVID-19 lockdown between April 29 and June 1, 2022. Employing OLS linear regression analyses, our findings reveal that SES was negatively associated with depressive symptoms (B = 0.173, p < 0.001) and anxiety (B = 0.147, p < 0.001). The findings supported our hypotheses that this disparity in mental health was partially mediated by neighborhood social capital, community management, and the extent of online social connections measured by the frequency of social connection through the social media WeChat (all p < 0.05). Additionally, neighborhood social capital, community management, and online social connections also mitigated SES-driven mental health inequalities (all p < 0.05). The study underscores the significance of the neighborhood environment and online social interactions in amplifying SES-related mental health effects, offering valuable insights for urban planning and health equity strategies.

Using Narrative Transportation Theory to Build Interventions that Reduce Perceived Stigma Among Women Living with HIV/AIDS

Yang, Z., Wang, J., Zhang, Y., Zhao, D., Qiu, X., Fu, Y., Wu, B., & Hu, Y. (2025). Journal of General Internal Medicine, 40(3), 666-673. 10.1007/s11606-024-09130-w

Age at diagnosis of diabetes, obesity, and the risk of dementia among adult patients with type 2 diabetes

Qi, X., Zhu, Z., Luo, H., Schwartz, M. D., & Wu, B. (2024). PloS One, 19(11). 10.1371/journal.pone.0310964

Abstract

Abstract

Background While Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) prevalence is increasing among younger individuals, few studies have examined how age at T2DM diagnosis relates to dementia risk in diabetic populations. We aimed to investigate the association between age at T2DM diagnosis and subsequent dementia risk, and to determine whether obesity moderates this relationship. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study using data from the Health and Retirement Study (2002–2016) matched with its 2003 Diabetes Mail-Out Survey. The study included 1,213 dementia-free adults aged ≥50 with diagnosed T2DM. Primary exposures were age at T2DM diagnosis (categorized as <50, 50–59, 60–69, and ≥70 years) and obesity status (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). The outcome was incident dementia, assessed using the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusting for sociodemographic factors, health behaviors, health status, and diabetes medication use. Results Over a median follow-up of 10 (interquartile range, 6–14) years, 216 (17.8%) participants developed dementia. Compared to participants diagnosed with T2DM at age ≥70 years, those diagnosed at younger ages had increased dementia risk: HR 1.70 (95% CI, 1.03–2.80) for 60–69 years, 1.72 (95% CI, 1.06–2.79) for 50–59 years, and 1.90 (95% CI, 1.14–3.18) for <50 years. Obesity significantly moderated this relationship, with obese individuals diagnosed with T2DM before age 50 showing the highest dementia risk (HR 3.05; 95% CI 1.23–7.56) compared to non-obese individuals diagnosed at ≥50 years. Conclusions Younger age at diagnosis of T2DM was significantly associated with a higher risk of dementia, particularly among individuals with obesity. Interventions specifically targeting obesity may be more effective in preventing dementia for adults with a younger onset of T2DM.

Association Between Cognitive Trajectories and Subsequent Health Status, Depressive Symptoms, and Mortality Among Older Adults in the United States: Findings From a Nationally Representative Study

Zang, E., Zhang, Y., Wang, Y., Wu, B., Fried, T. R., Becher, R. D., & Gill, T. M. (2024). Journals of Gerontology - Series A Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, 79(8). 10.1093/gerona/glae143

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Cognitive decline may be an early indicator of major health issues in older adults, though research using population-based data is lacking. Researchers objective was to assess the relationships between distinct cognitive trajectories and subsequent health outcomes, including health status, depressive symptoms, and mortality, using a nationally representative cohort. Methods: Data were drawn from the National Health and AgingTrends Study. Global cognition was assessed annually between 2011 and 2018. The health status of 4413 people, depressive symptoms in 4342 individuals, and deaths among 5955 living respondents were measured in 2019. Distinct cognitive trajectory groups were identified using an innovative Bayesian group-based trajectory model. Ordinal logistic, Poisson, and logistic regression models were used to examine the associations between cognitive trajectories and subsequent health outcomes. Results: Researchers identified five cognitive trajectory groups with distinct baseline values and subsequent changes in cognitive function. Compared with the group with stably high cognitive function, worse cognitive trajectories (ie, lower baseline values and sharper declines) were associated with higher risks of poor health status, depressive symptoms, and mortality, even after adjusting for relevant covariates. Conclusions: Among older adults, worse cognitive trajectories are strongly associated with subsequent poor health status, high depressive symptoms, and high mortality risks. Regular screening of cognitive function may help to facilitate early identification and interventions for older adults susceptible to adverse health outcomes.

The Association Between Trajectories of Perceived Unmet Needs for Home and Community-Based Services and Life Satisfaction Among Chinese Older Adults: The Moderating Effect of Psychological Resilience

Wang, H., Liu, H., Wu, B., & Hai, L. (2024). Research on Aging, 46(2), 139-152. 10.1177/01640275231203608

Abstract

Abstract

This study examined whether trajectories of perceived unmet needs for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) were associated with life satisfaction among Chinese older adults and whether the association was moderated by psychological resilience. Data came from five waves (2005-2018) of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). Latent class growth analysis revealed three distinct trajectories of perceived unmet HCBS needs: “increasing” (n = 977, 36.24%), “persistent” (n = 570, 21.14%), and “decreasing” (n = 1149, 42.62%). Multiple regression estimates showed that the increasing group was associated with lower life satisfaction, and the association was moderated by psychological resilience, especially for older adults who were male, living in rural, and oldest-old. Results indicate that inequalities in cumulative exposure to perceived unmet HCBS needs may further lead to increasing inequalities in life satisfaction. Interventions focused on minimizing the provision-need gap of HCBS and enhancing personal resilience should be considered to improve the life satisfaction of older adults.

Association of Gum Treatment with Cognitive Decline and Dementia Risk among Older Adults with Periodontal Symptoms: A 12-Year Prospective Cohort Study

Zhu, Z., Wang, K., Zheng, Y., Li, A., Wu, B., & Qi, X. (2024). Neuroepidemiology, 1-10. 10.1159/000540086

Abstract

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This study examines the associations of gum treatment with cognitive decline and dementia risk among older adults with periodontal symptoms in the USA.METHODS: A cohort of 866 adults aged ≥50 with periodontal symptoms was recruited for the 2008 Health and Retirement Study "Dental Health Experimental Module" and followed until 2020. Cognitive function was assessed with the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS). Dementia status was ascertained with the Langa-Weir algorithm based on TICS scores and proxy assessments. Linear mixed-effects model and multivariable Cox regression models were utilized to analyze the associations of gum treatment with cognitive decline and the risk of dementia, respectively.RESULTS: Of 866 participants (mean age 67.7, 61.4% women), 105 (12.1%) developed dementia with a median follow-up of 9 (IQR, 6-10) years. The dementia incidence rates were lower in the group with gum treatment (7.4 vs. 12.9 per 1,000 person-years). Compared with participants who did not have gum treatment, those with gum treatment experienced a decline in TICS score that was on average 0.025 (95% CI, 0.005-0.044) points less per year and a 38% lower incidence of dementia (hazard ratio, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.41-0.93). These associations were consistent across participants with a different severity of periodontal symptoms and sociodemographic characteristics (age, sex, race, ethnicity, and education) except for income levels.CONCLUSION: Prompt gum treatment for older adults with periodontal symptoms may be beneficial for their cognitive health.

Can formal home and community-based care substitute informal care? Evidence from Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey

Wang, Y., Wu, B., & Yang, W. (2024). BMC Geriatrics, 24(1). 10.1186/s12877-024-05312-7

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Formal home and community-based care are often considered as the preferable option to institutional care, offering older individuals the convenience of receiving care in their homes. Although research has found that these services may alleviate the burden on informal caregivers, there is a lack of research on which specific types of formal home and community-based care influence informal care provision. Methods: Employing fixed-effects and quantile regression models, this study seeks to explore the effects that various formal home and community-based care services have on reducing the burden of informal care. This study draws data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey 2005, 2008, 2011, 2014, and 2018. Results: Our findings indicate that two types of formal care substantially influence the provision of informal care. The availability of daily living assistance services correlates with reduced informal caregiving hours, especially for those with extensive care needs. The availability of community-based health care services is linked to a reduction in the direct expenses incurred from informal caregiving, especially for those incurring greater direct caregiving costs. These effects are more prominent among urban residents. Other services, such as mental health support and legal advice services, do not demonstrate significant effects on reducing informal care hours and costs. Conclusions: Daily living assistance and community-based health care services play a crucial role in benefiting informal caregivers. It is important to prioritize the expansion of these services, especially among those with greater care needs.

Care partners experience of an oral health intervention for individuals with mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia using behavior change technique: A qualitative study

Bryant, A. L., Hirschey, R., Caiola, C. E., Chan, Y. N., Cho, Y., Plassman, B. L., Wu, B., Anderson, R. A., & Bailey, D. E. (2024). Geriatric Nursing, 56, 40-45. 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.12.021

Abstract

Abstract

Oral health declines in older adults with cognitive impairment. We aimed to improve oral hygiene outcomes for individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia (MD) by fostering behavior changes among carepartners assisting them. We used qualitative data of verbatim transcripts of coaching sessions with carepartners (n = 17 dyads:10 dyads for MCI, 7 dyads for MD). Directed and emergent coding were used to understand behavior change techniques (BCTs). BCTs were compared with carepartners of participants with MCI and MD. Most frequently used BCTs in both groups: prompts and cues, instruction on how to perform the behavior, review behavioral goal, and problem solving. Different BCTs emerged in study: social support-unspecified of the MCI group and credible source for MD group. Findings clarified active intervention components, common BCTs used by carepartners, and different BCT approaches for both participants. Findings help to elucidate the mechanisms of changes in individuals’ behaviors in these interventions.