Kristine J Ajrouch

Kristine J Ajrouch serves as Research Professor at the Research Center for Group Dynamics within the Institute for Social Research at the University of Michigan. She directs the Michigan Center for Contextual Factors in Alzheimer’s Disease, leading multidisciplinary initiatives focused on dementia research in Arab American communities through NIH-funded programs.

Her research program centers on aging, health disparities, immigration, family dynamics, and Arab American identity across the lifespan. Current investigations examine contextual factors influencing Alzheimer's Disease progression in minority populations, with emphasis on culturally adapted care models, cognitive assessment validity in immigrant communities, and pandemic-related impacts on cognitive health disparities. Her work bridges gerontology, public health, and cultural psychology to address systemic inequities in dementia care.

Recent publications (2024-2025) reveal three dominant thematic clusters: 1) Racial/ethnic disparities in dementia diagnosis and care (particularly Arab American and MENA populations), 2) Cultural adaptation of cognitive assessment tools and interventions, and 3) Intersectional analyses of immigration status, social networks, and chronic disease comorbidities. Her methodological approach combines epidemiological studies, community-engaged interventions, and cross-cultural validation research.

Dr. Ajrouch leads the Michigan Center for Contextual Factors in Alzheimer’s Disease, which coordinates research across gerontology, neuroscience, and public health disciplines. Her collaborative framework involves partnerships with Arab American community organizations, medical centers, and international researchers studying aging in Middle Eastern contexts. Current projects emphasize developing culturally responsive dementia care pathways and training healthcare providers in minority-serving communities.