If “I’m too old for (fill in the blank)” is your go-to excuse, it’s time to change your mindset on aging.
Leading the charge on breaking the age barrier is the Center for Modern Aging Princeton (CMAP), which hosts its inaugural symposium on Thursday, June 12. “Living Longer Lives: Overcoming Our Fears of Growing Old” runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Conference Center at Mercer County Community College, 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor. Cost: $60. Visit cmaprinceton.org/symposium-on-ageism/ for more information or to register.
“As society experiences increased longevity, understanding and addressing ageism is crucial,” event organizers state. “This symposium will provide valuable insights for individuals navigating aging, professionals in the aging sector, and advocates committed to supporting older adults.”
The event features a full day of discussions, networking, and workshops focused on addressing ageism and fostering a more inclusive society for all generations. The symposium’s two keynote speakers are Paula Span, columnist for The New York Times’ “The New Old Age”; and Tracey Gendron, author of “Ageism Unmasked: Exploring Age Bias and How to End It,” chair of the Department of Gerontology at Virginia Commonwealth University, and executive director of the Virginia Center on Aging.
In addition to the keynote addresses, breakout workshops include:
“Age-Inclusivity Matters: Practical Tips for Professionals Engaging with Older Adults,” led by Lauren Snedeker, an assistant professor of teaching and director of the certificate on aging and health at the Rutgers University School of Social Work. Her research focuses on aging experience, mental health during older adulthood, and caregiving.
“Resilient Aging in the LGBTQ+ Community: Maintaining Voice and Autonomy,” led by Jeanne Koller and Paul Urbanski of the Monmouth University School of Social Work. Prior to entering academia, Koller spent 26 years as a clinical social worker, specializing in issues related to aging and to the LGBT+ community, among others. At Monmouth, where she is an assistant professor, she also serves as coordinator for the LGBT+ Older Adult Project and Certificate in Aging. Urbanski, an associate professor, conducts research in several areas relevant to CMAP’s symposium, including the impact of institutions on older adults; the experiences of Korean American grandparents who migrated to the U.S. to care for their grandchildren; and older adults moving from the criminal justice system back to the community.
“Oh, at Your Age—‘Get Over It, Honey!’: Ageism and Its Impact on Healthcare and Healthcare Delivery,” led by Arun S. Rao, medical director of care coordination at Penn Medicine Princeton Health. He has previously served as chief of geriatrics at St. Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick, medical director at LIFE St. Mary, and medical director of Seabrook Village, a continued care retirement community in Tinton Falls.
“This landmark event aims to dismantle stereotypes around aging and offer practical strategies for creating an age-inclusive society and maintaining autonomy. Attendees will gain expert insights, engage in meaningful dialogue, and connect with like-minded individuals committed to positive aging,” event materials state.
