The Dorothy H. Coons Papers comprise five series: Professional Papers (1936-1987); Alzheimer's Disease Research Project (1982-1986); Photographs (1966-1972);Audio-visual Materials (1976-1986); and Personal Papers (1999). The records cover the years 1936 to 1999, but the bulk of the material falls between 1970 and 1983. Within each series, files are arranged alphabetically by topic.
Dorothy H. Coons has been associated with the University of Michigan Institute of Gerontology (IoG) since 1939, when, as a graduate student, she became a research assistant in the Administrative Office of the Institute for Human Adjustment, precursor to the IoG. Her involvement with the institute subsequently spanned four decades, during which time she was active in programming and research. Coons played a leading role in several major research projects sponsored by the institute, including the Ypsilanti State Hospital Project started in 1962, and the Alzheimer's Disease Research Project started in 1981.
In addition to her work with the institute, Coons served as a lecturer in gerontology in the University of Michigan School of Education, beginning in 1970. By 1978, she had attained the position of Associate Professor. This association reflected Coons' commitment to education and training for people who work with the elderly. She was dedicated to the ideal of creating environments for the elderly in which they would be treated with respect and dignity, and in which they could enjoy homelike comforts, as opposed to being "patients" in a sterile setting. She developed educational materials, published articles, and led workshops, all of which were aimed at understanding the problems of the elderly, and at enlightening those who care for them.
Coons' dedication to her ideals and her commitment to her work have made a strong impact at the University of Michigan and beyond. She has received the University of Michigan Wilbur J. Cohen Award and awards from the Association of Gerontology in Higher Education and the Michigan Non-Profit Homes Association.
