Center for the Study of Aging holds inaugural seminar

The Center for the Study of Aging (CSA) at McDaniel College launched July 29 the first of its “Meeting the Challenges of the Graying of America” seminars. Participants from regional businesses, agencies and non-profits attended the day-long professional development training, which included presentations from CSA faculty about preparing for the generation of “Baby Boomers” as they move toward retirement.

The Boomer generation includes those born between 1945 and 1964. Today, 78 million American Boomers are growing closer to retirement, the greatest challenge in history for businesses and organizations serving senior citizens.

The “Graying of America” began with CSA Director Alva “Buzz” Baker’s discussion about the demands placed on community and social institutions by aging Boomers.  CSA Academic Director Diane Martin provided communication strategies to help meet the needs of older adults.

According to seminar participant Kelli Kemp of Westminster’s Target Community and Educational Services, Inc., professional development opportunities are rare in this area and she appreciated that the CSA provided this type of opportunity.

"It's great to have a resource for information and training about aging so close to home," said Kemp.

Upcoming events from the CSA include:

“Ethics and Older Adults: Micro and Macro Practice Issues: A Social Work Conference” at 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Aug. 13 at McDaniel College.

“Connecting with the Disconnected: Spiritual Care and Ministry to the Person with Advancing Alzheimer’s Disease” at 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Aug. 26 at Copper Ridge, Sykesville, Md.

For more information about these and other offerings from The Center for the Study of aging at McDaniel College, visit www.mcdaniel.edu/csa.

The Center for the Study of Aging, established in 2007, provides both degree and continuing education opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students, service providers, community leaders, policy makers, and others interested in the field of aging. It serves as a central location for all members of the local community and the region to work collaboratively in response to and support of the area’s aging population.