Conference on Aging

October 1

Staying Connected: Sexual Wellness in Later Life

Alex Fort, Sexuality Educator and Scholar
The concept of your “Golden Years” is supposed to be the time when you don’t have to worry about work and do whatever you want. But in all the possibilities, Western culture likes to believe that sex is out of the picture. Stereotypes abound, open displays of disgust at the mere mention of it, a whole retinue of judgement and reductive medical interventions. But let’s take a moment to truly examine what it means to be sexual beings who inevitably grow older. In this session, we’ll explore the reality of sexuality and aging from the lenses of sociology, ethics, and sexual health.

October 8

Good Grief For Everybody

Bonita Stone, Bereavement Coordinator
This session will explore the emotional, internal, and external adjustments we face after the loss of a loved one. Participants will reflect on the challenges of stepping into new roles while navigating the absence of someone who was central to their lives. The session will also address how grief can shift one's sense of identity and future direction, and how accepting the physical absence of a loved one can be a step toward creating a new path forward.

October 15

Understanding Medicare: The Basics

Ben Hudson, Training Director, State Health Insurance Assistance Program
In this session we will discuss the basics of Medicare. We will cover enrollment options, how and when to enroll, Medicare cost, coverage options and much more! This would be a great session for anyone becoming eligible for Medicare in the near future as well as current beneficiaries that would like to take a deeper look into the workings of Medicare.

October 22

Promoting Reengagement in Meaningful Activity for Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment

Yvonne Lu, Doris J Froebe Professor, School of Nursing
This session will look at the needs of adults with mild cognitive impairment and their care partners, explain the DEMA program, share what early results show for both groups, and talk about how it could be used at home and in long-term care.

October 29

Understanding Social Security Retirement, Spouse, & Survivors Benefits

Charo Boyd, M.S., Public Affairs Specialist for Central & Southern Indiana
Charo Boyd, SSA’s Public Affairs Specialist, will conduct an interactive webinar explaining Social Security retirement benefits and demonstrating numerous services available at www.ssa.gov. She will cover how age and wages affects benefits and explain entitlement factors for Social Security retirement, spouse, ex-spouse, and survivor benefits. Enhance your experience, create an account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount to review your Social Security statement and be prepared to ask questions during the webinar!

November 5

Patient Advocacy in the Healthcare Setting

Katie Tremel, Program Manager: Cancer Support Community
Patient Advocacy isn't always easy and sometimes you may not know where to start. However, there are many resources you can use to be your own best advocate. Please join Katie Tremel, MSW, LCSW, as she helps you feel empowered through helpful tips and discussion, which can make navigating the complexities of healthcare a better experience.

November 12

A Death Doula's Perspective on Living Well

Joy Harter, Death Doula, Grief Counselor, Elder Care Consultant
An informal and light hearted session that talks about living well through the eyes of a death doula. We will talk about how to live our best lives in the face of death which can help lessen fear and stress related to end-of-life

November 19

More Than Just Years: Reflections on Wholeness and Aging

Shawn Gerber, M.Div., BCC Director, Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy Services
This session explores the themes of community, connection, and spiritual wellness in aging. Presenters will share insights gained from working with older adults and addressing the challenges of loneliness and social isolation, highlighting lessons learned and practices that foster belonging and well-being.

November 26

Celebrating Caregivers

As part of this year’s Aging Conference, we will feature a 30-minute highlight reel from the new PBS documentary Caregiving, executive produced by Bradley Cooper. The film explores the challenges and rewards of caregiving through powerful personal stories, shining a light on an experience that touches so many families.