Tonya J. Roberts, PhD, RN

Postdoctoral Fellowship, Department of Veterans Affairs in: Older Women’s Health; Supporting Areas of Emphasis: Health Services Research, 2015
PhD, University of Wisconsin–Madison in: Nursing; Supporting Areas of Emphasis: Industrial & Systems Engineering, 2012
MS, University of Wisconsin–Madison in: Nursing, 2008
BS, University of Wisconsin–Madison in: Nursing, 2003

The overall goal of Dr. Roberts’ research program is to develop, implement, and evaluate person-centered and family-centered health services interventions that improve the quality of care and quality of life of vulnerable, older adults who need long-term care. Dr. Roberts uses mixed methods approaches to optimize long-term care work systems and address resident and family needs and preferences for care. Dr. Roberts is particularly interested in re-envisioning long-term care delivery to preserve and support older adult personhood, dignity, autonomy, and thriving.

Research focus areas

Aging and Care for Older Adults

Our research focuses on:

• Enhancing person and family-centered care delivery in long-term care environments
• Describing and understanding resident and family preferences for care and designing interventions to support delivery of care consistent with preferences

Health Systems and Public Health

Our research focuses on:

• Analyzing complex systems of people, technology, environments, and organizational structures in long-term care settings
• Collaboratively designing interventions with residents, family, and staff to improve aging care delivery, resident and family quality of life, and worker well-being in long-term care environments

Aging & Care for Older Adults      Health Systems & Public Health