ABOUT US

Advancing AUB’s signature on healthy aging in the region.

Why AUB?
AUB’s Signature on Aging in Lebanon
Steering Committee

Why AUB?

The American University of Beirut has long recognized aging as a public health priority. With decades of pioneering work, AUB has built a robust ecosystem for healthy longevity anchored in research, education, care, and community engagement.

With a strong research portfolio, regional leadership, and a deep commitment to equity and inclusion, AUB is uniquely positioned to lead the Healthy Longevity Mission. HeLM builds on this legacy to unite disciplines, communities, and generations, and to shape a future where aging is celebrated, supported, and reimagined.

Timeline with Navigation

AUB: The Leading Institution on Aging in Lebanon

Key milestones in aging research and programs
2004
2008
2010
2011
2019
2020
2022
2023

2004 - MSN Program Establishment

Nursing education
Establishment of the MSN program Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist designed to meet the health challenges of the 21st century in Lebanon and the region.
First program of its kind in the region
Comprehensive curriculum covering clinical practice and management
Addressing the growing need for geriatric care specialists

2008 - Center for Studies on Aging

Research center
AUB co-established The Center for Studies on Aging, following a conference on Aging in Lebanon, to advance regional dialogue and research on aging.
Interdisciplinary approach to aging research
Fostering collaboration between academics and practitioners
Hosting annual conferences on aging in the region

2010 - University for Seniors Program

Senior students
AUB launched the University for Seniors Program, one of the first lifelong learning initiatives for older adults in the Arab region.
Promoting cognitive engagement for older adults
Courses tailored to interests and abilities of seniors
Fostering social connections and combating isolation

2011 - First Cohort Study on Aging: COLDS

Senior students
AUB launched Cohort of Older Adults in Lebanon: A Dementia Study (COLDS). This study was a pilot study which surveyed two governorates of Lebanon: Beirut and Mount Lebanon (Chouf and Aley Districts)
Pioneering longitudinal study on aging in the region
Established baseline data for future research

2019 - GOLD Initiative

Medical volunteers
GOLD is a student-led initiative that offers free-of-charge medical services to underprivileged older adults, focusing on both social and medical perspectives of elderly life.
Student-led initiative providing free medical services
Holistic approach addressing both medical and social needs
Promoting intergenerational dialogue and understanding

2020 - LSAHA Cohort Study

Research survey
Establishment of the LSAHA cohort study on aging and health, a survey study of a representative sample of over 3,000 residents of Lebanon aged 60 years and above.
Large-scale survey of 3,000+ residents aged 60+
Comprehensive assessment of multiple life domains
Creating valuable dataset for policymakers and researchers

2022 - 3LC Study Launch

Collaborative research
Launching of the 3LC study, a large collaborative effort between investigators at AUB and Columbia University to study the benefits of Late Life Learning.
International collaboration with Columbia University
Focus on cognitive benefits of late life learning
Potential to inform educational programs for seniors

2023 - Geriatric Medicine Fellowship

Fellowship program
Establishment of Munib and Angela Masri Geriatric Medicine Fellowship Program to advance specialized training in geriatric medicine and improve care for older adults.
Specialized training program in geriatric medicine
Generously supported by Munib and Angela Masri
Addressing the critical shortage of geriatric specialists