Luci Baines Johnson and Ian J. Turpin
About Johnson–Turpin Center
Overview
The Luci Baines Johnson and Ian J. Turpin Center for Gerontological Nursing was established in September 2022 at The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing. The Center recognizes the philanthropy and advocacy of Ms. Luci Baines Johnson and Mr. Ian J. Turpin in support of gerontological nursing and related areas.
Ms. Johnson has been a longstanding supporter of The University of Texas at Austin and an advocate for the essential role of nurses in improving health across Texas and the nation. Mr. Turpin has similarly advanced efforts to improve care for older adults. Together, they have supported initiatives that promote community-based aging and dignity in later life.
Addressing a Growing Need
The United States is experiencing a significant demographic shift. More than 57.8 million Americans are aged 65 and older, a number projected to increase to nearly 81 million by 2040. Adults over age 80 represent the fastest-growing segment of the population.
This growth will have lasting implications for healthcare systems, workforce development, and the delivery of care across Texas and beyond.
Research and Impact
Consistent with the priorities of the National Institute on Aging, the Center advances understanding of the aging process and related conditions. Aging is the primary risk factor for many chronic and complex diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, cancer, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, kidney disease, and diabetes.
The Johnson–Turpin Center integrates education, research, and practice to advance gerontological nursing and improve health outcomes for older adults. As Texas experiences rapid population aging and increasing demand for dementia-capable care, the Center serves as a hub for evidence-based leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement.
Aging in Texas: Key Challenges
4th
Largest older adult population in the nation.
2nd
Largest Hispanic older adult population in the nation.
22%
Older Texans live at or below the poverty level.
1.3M (32%)
Older Texans 65+ living with a disability.
Our Vision
Better Everyday Health for Texas Older Adults
Mission and Values
Our mission is to support excellence in gerontological nursing education, research, and practice by preparing nurses to effectively lead care for older adults while positively impacting communities where we live and work.
Our values align with The University of Texas at Austin: Learning, Discovery, Freedom, Leadership, Individual Opportunity, and Responsibility.
Goals
Lead innovative community-based and clinical research that will benefit the health, independence, and well-being of diverse aging adults and their caregivers.
Mentor a new generation of nursing scholars and clinicians in gerontology.
Disseminate knowledge and strategies to promote well-being for older adults and their families.
Advance leadership that supports innovative and collaborative practice across care environments.
Conceptual Model
The conceptual model for the Luci Baines Johnson and Ian J. Turpin Center for Gerontological Nursing is drive by 5 pillars:
- Leadership
- Research
- Education
- Practice
- Collaboration