Conference highlights technologies to keep seniors living independently
Aging 2.0: Technology, Trends and Transitions to be held April 8, 2011
Posted 3/30/2011
As 79 million baby boomers begin to turn 65 this year, new technologies are emerging to help them age well and live independently.
The University Center on Aging and Health, Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, and the Western Reserve Geriatric Center at Case Western Reserve University plan to demonstrate some of these advances during the 19th Florence Cellar Conference, “Aging 2.0: Technology, Trends and Transitions.”
The conference takes place Friday, April 8, at the Executive Caterers in Landerhaven, 6111 Landerhaven Drive, in Mayfield Heights. To attend, register by April 4.
According to Florence Cellar Associate Professor of Gerontological Nursing Diana Morris, executive director of the University Center on Aging and Health, this will be one of the first conferences in northeast Ohio that brings together researchers and technology developers interested in assisting older adults. Speakers will address the landscape of health care technology targeted at older adults; emerging and future trends in technology; and related policy and ethical issues.
“It is a unique opportunity for researchers in health care to network with people in technology,” Morris said.
Between talks and presentations, attendees can test or observe demonstrations of new products on the market or under development from General Motors’ nonglare windshields, GE’s blue lighting to boost moods and wake-sleep cycles, Case Western Reserve’s voice-activated wheelchair, to products that compensate for hearing or sight loss. Many more low and high tech items also will be on site.
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Keynote speakers Sara J. Czaja and Majd Alwan |
Two keynote speakers, Sara J. Czaja, professor in the departments of psychiatry, behavioral sciences and industrial engineering at the University of Miami, and Majd Alwan, vice president of the Center for Aging Services Technologies in Washington, D.C., are among the speakers addressing the landscape of technologies, the public policy implications and product trends relevant to aging.
Czaja focuses on developing strategies to improve the quality of life for older adults. Alwan’s work brings together a network of technology companies, providers and research institutions with goals of tech solutions for the aging.
The conference also will explore:
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Using assistive technologies to promote optimal function for disabled people of all ages.
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Understanding how sleep-wake cycles can impact Adult Failure to Thrive Syndrome and creating light cycles to improve outcomes.
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Incorporating technologies in caring for the older adults in daycare, nursing homes or other care or rehabilitation facilities.
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Developing health-monitoring system to ensure adults take their medications or follow through with tasks to promote better health.
The conference, which includes lunch, begins with check-in at 7:30 a.m. An all-day program follows from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For information, call 216.368.2692 or visit fpb.case.edu/cellarconference.
Case Western Reserve University is one of the country’s leading private research institutions. Located in Cleveland, we offer a unique combination of forward-thinking educational opportunities in an inspiring cultural setting. Our leading-edge faculty engage in teaching and research in a collaborative, hands-on environment. Our nationally recognized programs include arts and sciences, dental medicine, engineering, law, management, medicine, nursing and social work. About 4,200 undergraduate and 5,600 graduate students comprise our student body. Visit case.edu to see how Case Western Reserve thinks beyond the possible.
