Outreach and Engagement

Established in 1965, the Institute of Gerontology has long been a leader in outreach to both professionals and members of the community. As a nationally recognized authority on aging issues, our mission is to conduct research and translate that knowledge into meaningful programming for seniors, their caregivers and the professional community serving them. Our team of faculty, students, staff, and countless volunteers all share a passion and dedication to the promotion of successful aging.

Professional Training

Issues in Aging The IOG's longest running continuing education conference, this 2-day program held every May is designed for health care professionals, service providers, administrators and researchers working in the field of aging and dealing with older adults in later stages of life.

For more information contact Donna MacDonald at (313) 664-2605 or donnamacdonald@wayne.edu.

A Meaningful Life with Alzheimer's Conference
Created in collaboration with the Alzheimer's Association Greater Michigan Chapter. A conference that brings together health professionals and caregivers to understand a person-centered approach to caring for those living with Alzheimer's.

For more information contact Donna MacDonald at (313) 664-2605 or donnamacdonald@wayne.edu.

Collaborative Continuing Education Program
The Institute of Gerontology offers continuing education programs for 1-3 credits on current issues in aging and health. These topics are constantly changing according to the needs of the professional community. Some of our most recent topics presented have been:

  • Shedding Light on Medicaid: Making Ethical Choices
  • It's Not about the Stuff: Harm Reduction for Hoarding
  • Medical Marijuana
  • Pain Management

For more information contact Terry Bailey at 313-664-2611 or tbailey@wayne.edu.

Programs to Engage and Educate Seniors and Caregivers - View Calendar

Seniors participate in a Chair Yoga breakout session at our annual Art of Aging conference

Art of Aging Successfully
Our volunteer core, the Elder Advisors to Research joined with the IOG faculty in 1999 to create a conference organized by seniors for seniors. What began as an experiment has evolved into a much-anticipated annual event with a sell-out crowd of 500 seniors. The conference, anchored by a well-respected keynote speaker and featuring several break-out workshops, promotes creative expression, social connection and information on ways to positively embrace all facets of aging.

For more information contact Donna MacDonald at (313) 664-2605 or donnamacdonald@wayne.edu.

Healthier Black Elders Center (HBEC) Lunch & Learn Series
HBEC is committed to connecting Detroit's seniors and their families to current knowledge about aging and health. This year's HBEC free learning series has expanded to include new locations with a broader list of speakers and topics. The learning series are held once a month between February through April and then again in October and November at various metro locations.

For more information please contact LaToya Hall at 313-664-2604 or l.hall@wayne.edu

BrainStorm
Our training program is created for anyone working with older adults. BrainStorm is a full year of research-based wellness activities developed to addresses multiple facets of brain health, as well as physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. Presentations are filled with hands-on activities, humor, social interaction, and take-home materials.

For more information please contact Terry Bailey at 313-664-2611 or tbailey@wayne.edu.