Welcome to my website! I am the Mauzy Regents Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Education. My area of specialization is the aging motor system, and also, the effect that health and fitness have on cognitive and motor function in older adults. I have been interested in the effects of health and fitness on cognitive function since 1975, when I discovered that older men who exercised regularly had reaction times that were as fast as college students. Recently, I have been particularly interested in the effects of physical activity of quality of life for the frail elderly. Studies on these topics are found under the research section.

One of the great pleasures that I have experienced in my career is the opportunity to work with some very bright and talented graduate students. A few of my most outstanding students are conducting excellent research on aging, and are leading productive careers that benefit older adults.

Since 1977 I have been fortunate enough to serve in a leadership capacity for The University of Texas Institute of Gerontology. The Institute is composed of more than 40 faculty and staff affiliates from more than 11 colleges and schools throughout the University. The Institute provides an organizational function at the University for age-related behavioral and social research, and also provides information on age-related topics to institutions, agencies, associations, and individuals outside the University.

My hobbies are rowing (yes, on the water), playing golf, and playing with my two furry friends, Cassie and Rocket .

Waneen Spirduso