Takashi Amano

Takashi Amano serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Work within the School of Arts and Sciences at Rutgers University – Newark. His academic journey includes a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern Indiana and a PhD from the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis. Prior to joining Rutgers, he gained professional experience in Japan working at the Dia Foundation for Research on Aging, Keio University School of Medicine, and as a social worker at a community center for home and community-based care for older adults.

Dr. Amano's research program focuses on understanding and supporting vulnerable older adults, particularly those with cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). His three primary research agendas include: (1) examining the reciprocal relationship between social engagement and cognitive impairment/ADRD; (2) identifying socially and culturally constructed barriers to activity and participation for people with cognitive impairment; and (3) investigating inequalities in the implementation and accessibility of long-term supports and services. His work employs a biopsychosocial lens and draws from social constructionist models to address critical gaps in dementia care and support systems.

Analysis of Dr. Amano's recent publications reveals a strong focus on the social dimensions of cognitive decline and dementia, with particular attention to health disparities across racial, ethnic, and cultural contexts. His research spans multiple geographic settings including the United States and Ecuador, examining how social determinants like discrimination, housing conditions, and cultural identity intersect with cognitive health outcomes. Methodologically, his work combines quantitative approaches with implementation science frameworks to address practical challenges in dementia care delivery.

• 2020-2021 Research Council Award, Rutgers University Research Council

Dr. Amano's scholarly contributions extend to multiple interdisciplinary collaborations focused on aging, dementia, and health equity. His research has implications for policy development in long-term care systems and community-based support services. Through his work on music therapy implementation and diagnostic labeling effects, he addresses critical gaps in translating evidence into practice for dementia care. His Ecuador-based research on indigenous populations demonstrates a global perspective on dementia disparities.

Dr. Amano's work connects with Rutgers' Hub for Aging Collaboration Center for Healthy Aging and the Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research. His research bridges social work practice with gerontological science, emphasizing the importance of culturally competent care systems that address the diverse needs of older adults with cognitive impairment.