U-M, AARP Michigan host virtual talks through Healthy Aging Series on enhancing longevity and well-being in older adults

Michigan Medicine, in collaboration with AARP Michigan, hosted over 1,100 members of the public for the second annual University of Michigan Healthy Aging Series. 

Throughout the month of October, this free virtual program explored how older adults can live longer, healthier lives by providing practical strategies based on research and clinical expertise of experts from U-M and beyond. 

Each of the four online sessions addressed key aspects of healthy aging, including loneliness, falls, brain health, and Medicare benefits. Watch the recordings for each below:

Creating Connections and Reducing Loneliness
The pandemic highlighted the importance of human connection and the risks associated with loneliness. In this Oct. 6 webinar, the speakers talked about the health impacts of loneliness and practical ways to foster connections and support yourself and others.

Speakers: Lauren Gerlach, D.O., M.S., and Preeti Malani, M.D., M.S., M.S.J.
Both speakers are U-M Medical School faculty who have studied trends and impacts related to social connection in older adults.

WATCH THE RECORDING

Focus on Falls: Balance, Mobility, and Preventing Injury
Regardless of your physical activity level, you can take steps to reduce the risk of falls and minimize the potential for serious injuries. This Oct. 13 session explored recent research on falls in older adults and provided valuable tips for prevention and recovery.

Speakers: Allon Goldberg, Ph.D., PT, and Geoffrey Hoffman, Ph.D., M.P.H.
Both speakers are U-M faculty whose work focuses on falls and physical conditioning in older adults.

WATCH THE RECORDING

Brain Health: What You Should Know and What You Can Do
Maintaining cognitive sharpness and recognizing early signs of memory and cognitive decline is increasingly achievable. This Oct. 20 session provided the latest knowledge and preventive advice suitable for diverse backgrounds.

Speakers: Donovan Maust, M.D., M.S., Scott Roberts, Ph.D., M.A., and Edna Rose, Ph.D., M.S.W., R.N.
All three speakers are U-M dementia experts, including risk factors, testing and management of behavioral symptoms.

WATCH THE RECORDING

Navigating Your Medicare Choices and Benefits
With Medicare open enrollment underway and various options available, gain insights into making informed choices and optimizing your selected plan. This Oct. 27 session reviewed valuable Medicare tools, updates, and benefits.

Speakers: Shari Smith, M.A., M.P.H., and Renu Tipirneni, M.D., M.Sc.
The speakers, from the Area Agency on Aging 1-B and U-M Medical School, bring expertise on Medicare and health insurance in general.

WATCH THE RECORDING

The 2023 series was sponsored by AARP and University of Michigan centers, institutes, and initiatives: the U-M Geriatrics Center and Geriatrics Community Programs, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, Silver Club Memory Programs, Turner African American Services Council, Turner Senior Wellness Program, U-M Institute for Healthcare Policy & Innovation, and the U-M National Poll on Healthy Aging.

"We are delighted to collaborate with AARP Michigan for the second year in a row to present the U-M Healthy Aging Series. This initiative reflects our commitment to improving the lives of older adults through education and actionable insights," said Shannon Etcheverry, LMSW, interim assistant director of community programs at Michigan Medicine's Geriatrics Center, which organized both last year’s and this year’s series in partnership with the U-M Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation.  

"AARP Michigan is proud to sponsor the U-M Healthy Aging Series, offering valuable information to help our members and all Michiganders age well and live their best lives," stated Paula D. Cunningham, AARP State Director.