Mario D. Garrett

Professor Mario D. Garrett is a distinguished academic in Gerontology at San Diego State University (SDSU), holding the rank of Professor in the School of Social Work within the College of Health and Human Services. His career spans over three decades, with extensive experience in global aging research, including roles at the United Nations International Institute on Aging and leadership positions at SDSU, such as Chairman of Gerontology and Director of the University Center on Aging.

Education: He earned a Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Bath (1988) and a B.Sc. (Honors) in Psychology and Physiology from the University of East London (1980).

Research Focus: His work centers on dementia, critical age theory, and aging policy, with particular attention to indigenous populations and public health. He has authored nine books, including influential texts like Critical Age Theory, and publishes widely in peer-reviewed journals.

Teaching and Community Engagement: Garrett teaches courses such as Psychology of Aging and Gerontology, and is founder of the Coming of Age Film Festival. He has advised over 20+ master’s theses and secured grants exceeding $10 million, focusing on caregiver resilience and American Indian health.

Awards: Recognized as the Most Popular Gerontology Professor in America (Authority.org, 2022–2023), he has received multiple Outstanding Faculty awards and international honors for his contributions to aging research and policy.

Key Achievements: Developed groundbreaking GIS databases for American Indian health, critiqued Alzheimer’s research frameworks, and advocated for elder care through media, blogs, and policy initiatives.