Getting older doesn’t mean what it used to. For many aging Americans, it is a phase of life where interests, goals, and dreams can get a new or second start. Today, aging is about eliminating outdated perceptions and living the way that suits you best.
The CASI Conference on Aging shines a light on many important trends. More than ever before, older Americans are working longer, trying new things, and engaging in their communities. They’re taking charge, striving for wellness, focusing on independence, and advocating for themselves and others.
What it means to age has changed, during Older Americans Month (May) is a perfect opportunity to recognize and celebrate what aging looks like today.
What: “Shades of Grey: Diverse Approaches on Aging” - CASI Conference on Aging
When: Wednesday, May 17, 2017 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
Where: Center for Active Seniors, Inc. (CASI), 1035 W Kimberly Road Davenport, IA 52806
Why? To help educate professional caregivers on new and diverse issues facing our aging population.
Registration is $40. CEU’s are available for an additional fee of $15. Register at casiseniors.org/conference
Conference Features:
Terri Clark, MPH
Terri is the Coordinator of Prevention Services at Action Wellness in Philadelphia, PA. Throughout her 30 year career in public health, she has been an advocate for LGBT equality and sexual health across the lifecycle. She is currently working on a number of projects to advance the field of sexuality and aging along with developing a manual of lesson plans entitled, “ORIENTATION: Teaching About Attraction, Identity, and Behavior” due out in Spring, 2017.
She designed and implemented the “SEXcessful Aging” project, delivering sexual health and HIV prevention information to seniors and aging service providers throughout Philadelphia. Terri created Philadelphia’s first HIV and Aging Taskforce, whose mission it is to increase awareness and advocacy for the needs of older adults living with HIV, and those at risk for acquiring HIV.
Terri informs diverse aging networks that staff training is key in building understanding and addressing the unique needs of LGBT seniors. Her training efforts create empowering environments that recognize the diversity of LGBT seniors and support healthcare professionals in providing quality care to all constituents, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
She will present two sessions. “SEXcessfully Aging” and “Improving the Quality of Services and Supports for LGBT Older Adults”
Steve Kopp, PhD, Genesis Health System, “Now What? Life After Retirement” How can we help those we serve live life on their terms? Discover techniques to work with seniors on living their lives successfully and to challenge the myths of getting “old.’ Dr. Kopp is the Executive Director of Genesis Psychology Associates, an affiliate of Genesis Health System. Dr. Kopp is dual licensed in the state of Iowa as a Marriage and Family Therapist and a Mental Health Counselor. Kopp has 20 years’ experience working with couples and families. He has been a leader in the Quad Cities mental health redesign through Genesis Behavioral Health.
Shyam Seetharaman, St. Ambrose University, “How Diet Affects Aging”
This session will help identify ways to assess senior dietary needs to ward off health risks including dementia; assist seniors in making healthy dietary choices to reduce health risks and improve the aging process and cover how to implement activities, social interactions and social support to lower the risk of accelerated brain aging. Dr. Shyam Seetharaman is currently serving as an Assistant Professor of Psychology at St. Ambrose University. Specifically, he teaches courses and conducts research in the field of Behavioral Neuropsychology. Dr. Seetharaman has presented research at several national and international psychology and neuroscience conferences. He also has a publication record in peer-reviewed scientific journals. His research interests have focused on the study of acute and chronic stress effects on the brain, cognition and physiology.
The conference is presented by Genesis Health System. Additional support is provided by Audiology Consultants, Milestones Agency on Aging, Eye Surgeons Associates and Matthiessen’s Catering.
About CASI: Dedicated to serving seniors in the greater Quad Cities area, CASI boasts daily activities, classes, community forums, a fitness center and educational activities. CASI has a professional staff dedicated to the advocacy of seniors and all issues facing our aging population. Additionally, CASI operates Jane’s Place, the only adult day service facility in eastern Iowa. Jane’s Place serves seniors with early onset dementia, Alzheimer’s or those who need socialization. Jane’s Place also provides caregiver respite.
About Older American Month:
In 1963, May was designated to celebrate Older Americans Month (OAM). Led by the Administration for Community Living, the annual observance offers the opportunity to learn about, support, and celebrate our nation’s older citizens.
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