The Claude Pepper Older Americans Independence Center at Wake Forest University School of Medicine started in 1992 and is supported by the National Institute on Aging to support research, and research education aimed at preserving the independence of older adults.”

The mission of the Pepper Center is to promote the health and independence of older adults.  To achieve this mission, the OAIC attracts and develops investigators and supports pilot, developmental projects and independently-funded studies relevant to the theme, “Integrating pathways affecting physical function for new approaches to disability treatment and prevention.” We pursue this mission by applying our resources, expertise, and infrastructure to achieve our four programmatic aims, building on the substantial progress made during the current cycle.