Dr. Abbott’s research on social networks, health, and health care utilization of chronically ill elders focuses on the role informal networks play in monitoring symptoms and managing chronic conditions as well as providing emotional and instrumental support. Additionally, her research explores the relationship between informal network characteristics and health care utilization. Dr. Abbott’s future research plans include untangling causal relationships in how health affects the ability to maintain informal ties, as well as the extent to which informal ties are helpful in maintaining health. Determining which ties are helpful versus which ties are harmful to health is critical in understanding how people are encouraged or discouraged to obtain formal care. Dr. Abbott works as a member of Dr. Mary Naylor’s research team and is the Project Manager for Dr. Naylor’s NIA/NINR funded R-01 Health Related Quality of Life: Elders in Long-term Care (NIA 1R01AG025524-01A2).