Meng Huo

Dr. Meng Huo is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Human Development & Family Studies at the University of California, Davis. Her research focuses on how older adults' helping behaviors contribute to resilience and successful aging, with a particular emphasis on empathy in late life. She employs diverse methodologies including self-report data, biomarkers, geocoded data, and observational assessments.

Education:

• Ph.D., Human Development and Family Sciences (Aging and Health focus), University of Texas at Austin (2019)
• B.S., Psychology, Beijing Normal University (2014)

Research Focus:

Dr. Huo examines empathy's role in social interactions and mental health among older adults, exploring how volunteering and social relationships buffer against age-related declines. Her work highlights the interplay between caregiving, stress, and physiological markers like cortisol patterns. Key themes include intergenerational support dynamics, dyadic relationships in dementia care, and the psychological consequences of bereavement.

Grants & Advising:

She actively mentors undergraduate and graduate students interested in aging research and runs the SHARE Lab. While specific grant details are not provided, her publications suggest sustained funding for large-scale longitudinal studies.

Labs/Teams:

Dr. Huo directs the SHARE Lab, which investigates social relationships across the lifespan using daily diary methods and ecological momentary assessments.