Reseacher Spotlight: Jeffrey Lentz

What is your professional background?
I earned a doctorate from Georgia State University in sociology with a concentration in aging and the life course, a master’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University in sociology, and a bachelor’s degree from Post University in human services with minors in counseling and sociology. In addition, I earned graduate certificates in gerontology and professional counseling from Georgia State University and Post University, respectively. Before joining Emory, I taught as a lecturer at the University of North Georgia in the department of sociology and human services and the Institute for Healthy Aging.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor?
I am currently a Post-Doctoral Fellow in the Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology. My current mentor is Dr. Molly Perkins.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
My research interests include social gerontology, medical sociology, disability, and sexual and gender minority aging, health, and disability. My dissertation explored the relationship between minority stress and disability among sexual minority adults 50 years and older. Sexual and gender minority older adults, in general, are an at-risk and under-served population. It is important to understand their experiences through the aging process as it relates to their health outcomes because of their unique needs. Currently, I am working with Dr. Perkins on a research project funded by the NIH. We are investigating informal caregivers’ involvement in end-of-life care among assisted living residents with advanced dementia and its influence on resident and caregiver outcomes.

What do you like most about Emory?
I like the mentoring support I receive from the Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, and the ample opportunities to get involved.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?
I have a few: “Charmed,” “Teen Wolf,” and the “Vampire Diaries Franchise.”

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy going on walks with my fur-child, soaking up the sun at a pool or beach, hanging out with my husband, lounging around the house, and seeing my family. I love horror movies (top three favorite horror characters—Freddy Krueger, Chucky, and Pennywise) and my favorite animal is the wolf.

What is a fun fact about you?
I marched in two Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parades: 2007 Bolt Float with Miley Cyrus and 2008 International Cele-bear-ation Clock Tower by Build-A-Bear Workshop Float with Keke Palmer.