Jenay Beer
CO-FOUNDING DIRECTOR, COGNITIVE AGING RESEARCH AND EDUCATION CENTER
"Dementia caregiving is in need of a disruption. UGA is providing the tools and training so researchers, such as myself, can play a role in creating such disruptive, innovative solutions."
Jenay Beer turns research into real-world impact. An associate professor at UGA’s Institute of Gerontology in the College of Public Health, Dr. Beer is co-director of the Cognitive Aging Research and Education (CARE) Center with Lisa Renzi-Hammond, where they lead statewide efforts to support individuals with dementia and their caregivers.
Since joining UGA in 2017, Dr. Beer has focused on the intersection of aging, technology, and public health—especially in rural areas with limited access to care. Recognizing Georgia’s unique challenges, she helped launch the CARE Center as a hub for dementia education, research, and community support.
Under her and Dr. Renzi-Hammond’s leadership, the center has brought listening sessions, clinics, and support groups to underserved counties. They collaborate with public health experts, UGA Cooperative Extension agents, and Archway Partnership teams to share knowledge and support. The CARE Center operates in over a dozen counties, and Dr. Beer serves as the center’s point person in McDuffie and Washington counties, helping connect local needs with university resources.
Through community education, provider training, and the use of digital tools, Dr. Beer is breaking down barriers to care and transforming how dementia is understood and treated in Georgia.