Patricia Aguilera-Hermida

Patricia Aguilera-Hermida is an Associate Teaching Professor of Human Development and Family Studies at Penn State Harrisburg, serving as Program Coordinator for the Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies. She holds a D.Ed. from Penn State University, an M.S. in Psychology, and a Marriage and Family Therapy residency. Her teaching career spans over 25 years at both undergraduate and graduate levels, combined with clinical therapy experience and founding a school for older adults in Mexico. Her research focuses on intergenerational relationships, aging populations, cognitive health, and technology’s role in education and elderly care.

Key research interests include neuroplasticity, ageism reduction through intergenerational activities, and strategies to enhance community well-being among older adults. She has developed programs like 'Sharing Wisdom,' targeting Latino aging populations, and explores innovative educational tools such as AI chatbots in learning environments. Dr. Aguilera has published extensively on topics ranging from pandemic-era emergency online learning to smart-home technology adoption in retirement communities.

Her academic contributions span curriculum design, crisis management in education, and resilience-building strategies for students. She currently teaches courses including HDFS 239, 249, 301, 395C, 402, 433, 434, and PSYCH 100. Her work bridges academic research with practical applications, emphasizing social justice and intergenerational solidarity.