Susy Stark’s work is aimed at helping older adults live independently for as long as possible. She conducts clinical and translational research to promote successful aging in place and prevent falls. Much of her research focuses on older adults with chronic health conditions. Such people experience functional decline affecting their ability to live independently and face a significantly increased risk of falling. Stark implements evidence-based interventions to compensate for impairments through environmental support and self-management strategies, with a goal of mitigating functional decline, reducing fall risk and decreasing demands on health systems and caregivers. Her clinical translational research involves developing and testing the efficacy and effectiveness of compensatory interventions to enhance the ability of older adults to safely age at home, and clarifying how the interventions work. 

Stark also contributes to public health through her teaching roles. She mentors students in her laboratory, co-directs the TL1 Predoctoral Training program at the Washington University Institute of Clinical and Translational Sciences, and directs the Research Education Program for the Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center. She educates across the occupational therapy research sequence, specializing in mentoring occupational therapy students who are interested in pursuing doctorates. 

Additionally, she teaches “When I’m 64: Reimagining Your Future” through the Beyond Boundaries program at Washington University, where she serves on the Beyond Boundaries advisory board.  

Through these roles, Stark fosters the next generation of public health professionals, emphasizing the importance of innovative research and practical interventions to improve community health outcomes. 

Areas of focus:

  • Home-modification interventions to support aging in place. 
  • Fall prevention. 
  • Functional support for daily activities.  
  • Implementation of evidence-based interventions. 
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