Noted researcher to lecture at IHMC on Nov. 6

Dr. Todd Manini [Photo courtesy IHMC]

Todd Manini, Ph.D., is a University of Florida professor, division chief of clinical and population health integration, co-director of the Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center and co-leader of its digital health and artificial intelligence core, director of the T32 Translational Research on Aging and Mobility program and division chief of clinical and population health integration in the Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics.

“In these roles, I lead an interdisciplinary team of investigators, staff and trainees. I currently lead both clinical trials and observational studies involving cognitive and physical impairments in older adults,” Manini noted on his UF website.

On Nov. 6, Manini will speak in Ocala as part of the Institute for Human & Machine Cognition’s evening lecture series. He said his discussion will center on “advancing health-aiding technologies to help researchers and clinicians understand the risk factors for and consequences of losing independence in later life.”

Manini, who was born and raised in Steubenville, Ohio, said that as a kid, one of his favorite activities was conversing with the “Greatest Generation.”

“I enjoyed, and continue to do so, listening to their stories, learning the history and gathering their perspective,” he stated.

“I’ve always asked many questions, particularly the obvious ones that are often overlooked. As a scientist, I ask questions as a career and use research tools to provide evidence-based answers—design, data, evidence and testing,” he added.

According to IHMC, Manini’s presentation will aim to demonstrate the value of gerotechnology not only in tracking physical performance but also in fostering a deeper understanding of resilience mechanisms across diverse aging populations. Attendees will leave with insights into the potential of gerotechnology as both a research and practical tool for promoting healthy mobility in older adults. He will discuss state-of-the-art technologies, including wearable sensors, mobile applications and remote monitoring platforms, that provide continuous and real-time insights into the causes and consequences of mobility loss in late life.

Manini graduated with honors from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.  He earned his M.S. and Ph.D. as well as a certificate of advanced studies in gerontology from Syracuse University and completed a fellowship at the Laboratory of Epidemiology, Demography and Biometry at the National Institute on Aging in Bethesda, Maryland.

“I’m a perpetual learner. I love learning on my own, through problem solving, and learning how others succeed, through autobiographies and self-help books. I’ve always enjoyed “accomplishment” in any form. No matter the size or even the topic, I get a dopamine release each time I complete a project with tangible product,” he shared.

Manini’s interests also include being an avid listener of podcasts and audiobooks. He said he craves competition as a motivator, in sports and otherwise.

“I play chess, billiards and disc golf. I also enjoy working with my hands, a product of my steel worker roots, and I consider myself a proficient handyman. I enjoy having deep conversations and laughing with my wife,” he shared.

“I enjoy doing projects with my young kids, the doctor added. “They challenge me to explain my science and break it down to a level that any age group understands.”

Each IHMC evening lecture is free to attend and begins with a complimentary reception by La Casella Catering at 5:30 p.m. at the campus at 15 S. Osceola, Ave., in downtown Ocala. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. To RSVP, go to ihmc-20241106.eventbrite.com