Fellowship recognition by the organization acknowledges outstanding and continuing work in the field of gerontology.
Fiske researches the cause of depression and suicidal behavior in older adults and prevention. She also assesses sleeping problems and treatments for insomnia and other sleep disorders.
“What I’m especially interested in right now is what might be going on to make older adults depressed for the first time in late life?” said Fiske. “One of the things I’m trying to figure out is what is it about health issues, and lack of independence, especially in older men, that can make them depressed.”
She said that although few people may be aware of that population’s struggles, it’s really important to explore right now. Older men are at the highest risk of dying by suicide, more than any other demographic group.
“That’s the main reason I am excited about fellow status. Because it will allow me to publicize the work I’ve been doing, but also bring a little more attention to this area.”
Fellows are honored with a certificate and a lapel pin to commemorate their status and achievements.
Fiske earned her bachelor’s degree in English from Stanford University, her master’s degree in social psychology from San Francisco State University, and her doctorate in clinical psychology with a focus on aging from the University of Southern California.
She was hired to the WVU faculty in 2005 and serves as director of clinical training and coordinator of the clinical psychology program.
Fiske joins her department colleagues Jonell Strough and Julie Patrick in becoming Gerontological Society of America fellows. Strough, a professor in the department, earned the honor in 2012. Patrick, an associate professor, was recognized in 2008.
The Gerontological Society of America was founded in 1945 and is the oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to research, education and practice in the field of aging. The GSA’s principal mission is to advance the study of aging and disseminate information among scientists, decision makers and the general public.
For more information, contact Amy Fiske Amy.Fiske@mail.wvu.edu or (304) 293-1708.
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CONTACT: Devon Copeland, WVU Eberly College of Arts and Sciences
304.293.6867, Devon.Copeland@mail.wvu.edu
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