Carey Candrian

A social scientist with a PhD and postdoctoral degree in communication, Carey’s research explores how communication shapes -- and is shaped by -- perceptions, attitudes, and biases in the community. Race, gender, economics, language, sexual orientation, age, illness, and/or power dynamics can constrain people from having meaningful interactions.

This is particularly important in the context of serious illness care. How well do people understand their illness? How well do they understand their options? Do they feel comfortable disclosing their sexual orientation or gender identity when entering hospice or an assisted living community, and what happens if they don’t? How well are people able to talk openly and freely about what matters most to them? All these issues are inherently related to communication and interaction.

Carey’s focus is on using her research and communication expertise to improve end-of-life care for older adults who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT). It all boils down to this: If patients feel they can safely and openly be who they are -- and tell us who and what matters most to them -- we can offer them the support they and their loved ones want... when they need it most.

Originally from Tucson, Carey now resides in Denver.