UofL makes September the time to learn how to age optimally

For the second year, the Institute for Sustainable Health & Optimal Aging at the University of Louisville has scheduled a month-long series of events to inspire and encourage people to learn about the concept of optimal aging.

September is Optimal Aging Month at the institute, and staff will be in communities across Kentuckiana for events as well as hosting programs at various locations on UofL’s Health Sciences Center and Belknap campuses.

“Optimal aging is a new understanding of the aging process in which intergenerational, compassionate communities make resources available for people to lead physically, socially and emotionally healthy lives from birth to death,” said Anna Faul, Ph.D., executive director of the institute. “We began dedicating the month of September to increasing awareness of this new aging paradigm in 2015 and look forward to continuing it this year.”

Weekly institute-hosted events include a lecture on optimal aging on Sept. 14; an open discussion on digital media use by seniors on Sept. 22; and a “lightening round” session on Sept. 28 with three interactive presentations on mind, body and spirit interventions to help people age optimally.

Several surrounding counties also will participate in Optimal Aging Month by hosting the following community events: Shelby County Challenge Walk on Sept. 3; Henry, Trimble, Oldham and Barren/Metcalf/Hart County Challenge Walks on Sept. 10; and Bullitt County Challenge Walk on Sept. 17.

Other community events include the Kentucky Coalition for Healthy Communities Meeting in Shelbyville on Sept. 6; the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Sept. 10 in Louisville; the Step Out Walk to Stop Diabetes on Sept. 24 in Louisville; and the Susie’s Cause Health Fair for colon cancer awareness in Louisville.

Some events include a meal or refreshments and have a registration fee. For complete details and to register, visit the Optimal Aging Month 2016 website or contact the institute at 502-852-5620.