Dr. David Hancock, a researcher with a deep-rooted commitment to gerontology, is leading innovative studies that aim to transform how we understand and address elder mistreatment, particularly among individuals with dementia and their caregivers. His work, shaped by a background in social psychology and research methods and analysis, is now at the forefront of geriatric research, with implications for clinical practice, policy and public health.
Currently funded by an NIH K01 grant, Dr. Hancock is developing a new, standardized measure to assess elder mistreatment within dementia family caregiving dyads. “Estimates of prevalence range wildly, from approximately 25% to 75%, which tells us we don’t have a reliable way to measure this,” Dr. Hancock said. His approach incorporates user-centered design, drawing directly from interviews with caregivers to ensure the measure reflects real-world experiences and needs.
The second phase of the K01 project explores modifiable risk factors associated with mistreatment, with the goal of designing interventions that improve outcomes for both caregivers and care recipients. “Victims of elder mistreatment face higher rates of hospitalization and possibly increased mortality,” Dr. Hancock noted. “If we can reduce mistreatment, we can help people live healthier, longer lives.”
Beyond elder mistreatment, Dr. Hancock is also investigating firearm-related deaths among older adults—a topic he describes as “the most extreme form of elder abuse.” His research examines homicide, suicide and accidental deaths, with a particular focus on dementia-related cases. “We’re seeing that when firearms are stored loaded or unlocked, the risk of death is as much as 10 times higher,” he says. These findings point to clear opportunities for intervention, yet conversations around firearm safety in older adults remain rare and complex.
Dr. Hancock emphasized the legal and ethical challenges of firearm access among individuals with cognitive decline. “Unlike children, older adults retain legal autonomy, even when dementia is present. It is incredibly difficult to balance safety and independence,” he says. His work advocates for the development of clinical protocols and educational curricula to guide providers in navigating these sensitive discussions.
What sets Dr. Hancock’s research apart is its potential to move beyond publication and into practice. He’s already made policy recommendations around EMS medication dosing for older adults, advocating for “start low, go slow” protocols to prevent adverse outcomes. “I’m most proud when research doesn’t just sit in a journal—it changes how we care for people,” he says.
With a personal journey that began in physics and led to research psychology, Dr. Hancock’s mission is clear: to apply science in ways that tangibly improve lives. “I wanted to do something with math and science that would actually help people,” he said.
As his work continues to evolve, Dr. Hancock remains focused on the long-term impact. “Eventually, I hope to derive pride from seeing my research shape policy and practice,” he said. “That’s when I’ll feel like my work here is done.”
