International Day of Older Persons - October 1st

Friday, October 1st is the United Nations International Day of Older Persons (IDOP). This day marks a great opportunity to celebrate the contribution of older persons world wide. It also provides us with a time to reflect about what each one of us can do to improve the quality of life for older adults and to realize our goal of being a society for all ages.

If your organization has plans to honour IDOP, we'd love to hear about your plans. Please let me know at pat.spadafora@sheridanc.on.ca or by phone at 905-845-9430, extension 8615. We will post your planned activties on the Aging Matters blog.

In the News: Alicia Alonso

Have a look at this article from the New York Times about Alicia Alonso. She gave her final performance at the age of 75 and is a fine example of older adults remaining physically active. Ask us about your own dance research at SERC and the amazing team of Sheridan dance teachers!

In the News: The Science of Aging Brains

Here's an article that appeared in Newsweek about the science of the aging brain. Timothy Salthouse, the scientist's work discussed at the beginning, is a powerhouse in the area of aging; this is definitely a must-read for anyone interested in the changes that occur in the brain due to aging.

In the News: Researchers Seek Ways to Minimize Muscle Loss in Older Adults

For those familiar with our dance project, this article will only underscore the importance of what we're trying to accomplish at SERC.

In addition to weight-lifting exercises and possible prescription interventions, dance has enormous potential to regularly involve older adults who might not otherwise participate in traditional physical activity - and can be modified for any ability level. We're entering our third phase of pilot research in our dance project where we're involving older adults at a supportive housing site in Burlington. For more information, please check out our website!

Adaptive Technologies Showcase

This event may be of interest for those in the Burlington area:

Adaptive Technologies Showcase
Saturday, September 18th

1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Presentations
1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Visit displays and demonstrations

Centennial Hall, Central Branch, Burlington Public Library
(for directions to the library, click here)

Learn how technology can enhance life for children and adults with disabilities or limitations due to aging. There are so many products now available—from communication devices such as talking clocks and assistive telephones to computer aids, software, and reading aids.
Try out some adaptive technologies and find out how to get funding for them. Call 905.639.3611 ext. 134 for program information.