Join us for Art of Aging Successfully: A Quarter Century of Celebrating Life
An annual conference organized by seniors for seniors FLYER

Our volunteer core, of older adults joined the IOG faculty in 1999 to create a conference organized by seniors for seniors. What began as an experiment has evolved into a much-anticipated annual event with a sell-out crowds of more than 350 seniors. The June conference, anchored by a well-respected keynote speaker and featuring several break-out workshops, promotes creative expression, social connection and information on ways to positively embrace all facets of aging.

RSVP HERE: Once you complete the RSVP, you will need to click a link at the bottom of that form to make your payment.

AGENDA:

8:00 am: Doors Open
9:00 am: Welcome & Keynote - Old - Not Older with Larry Castleberry, President Detroit Association of Black Storytellers: A humorous tale of growing older, changing societal perspectives on aging, and letting those young whippersnappers know there is power in knowledge that only life experiences can teach. As Larry’s grandmother used to say, “Hush your mouth, listen, and learn something!!”

9:40 am: Visit Vendors
10:00 am: Session One Workshops
11:00 am: Visit Vendors
11:30 am: Session Two Workshops
12:30 pm: Lunch, Raffle Baskets

Session One Choices ( 10 – 11:00 am ) Pick 1 Workshop

Get the Most Out of Social Security & Medicare with Bill Lethemon - Social Security and Medicare might be the two most important pieces of the retirement puzzle, yet they are often misunderstood. This presentation will explain the key concepts, core benefits, enrollment timelines, and common pitfalls. Gain practical, unbiased insights to make informed decisions about your future income and healthcare. 

Movin’ and Groovin’ for Healthy Living with Raymond DeFoe - Enjoy moving to upbeat tunes in this fun and energizing aerobics class especially for older adults. Participants will improve balance, coordination, and cardiovascular health while en- joying easy-to-follow movements in a supportive and social environment. 

Time Is Money: Share what you know to get what you need with Alice Bagley - How do you value the time you spend helping and being helped in your community? Time-Banks are a way for people to share their skills and get needs met, all using time instead of money. TimeBanks keep folks active and cared for in their communities. See how you can get involved. 

Label Me Healthy: Decoding your food with Chef Paul Prudhomme - Healthy eating starts with understanding what is in the foods we choose. This presentation will help participants learn how to read nutrition labels, recognize key ingredients, and make informed choices that support overall health and wellness.

Calling All Grandparents! Tips for raising the next generation - Raising grandchildren can be a rewarding but complex experience for grandparents. Join our panel discussion to hear from all types of grandparents about navigating the challenges, rewards, and emotional ups and downs of helping to raise those precious grandchildren. (Panel)

Sponsored by Henry Ford Health

Session Two Choices ( 11:30 am – 12:30 pm ) Pick 1 Workshop:

Sit & Be Fit: The magic of chair exercises with Stephen Souaid - Give your feet and knees a break. You don’t have to stand to get a great workout and stay active. Pull up a chair and learn how these chair-based exercises can build strength, increase flexibility, and boost energy. You’ll work up a sweat, but no pain needed for this gain. These are simple movements anyone can do. 

Ready, Set, Prepared: Important Documents as We Age with Jonathan Colman - Preparing important documents ahead of time can make life easier for you and your family. Learn the essential paperwork everyone should complete as they get older. These documents could help protect your choices and maintain your independence. 

Pardon me? Healthy Hearing for a Sharper Mind with Marla Chaffee, AuD, FAAA, CCC-A -Hearing often declines as we age, with some of us struggling to hear more than others. Our brains need sounds and conversation for maximum stimulation. If you hear less, you can be at an increased risk for cognitive decline and social isolation. Learn the best way to check and restore your hearing. 

BrainStorm: A Workout for the Mind with Donna MacDonald, MA & Cheryl Deep, MA - Train your brain to think sharper, remember faster, and maybe even grow new brain cells and connections. Plus have fun while you do it. Join us for surprising brain facts, a look at how the brain works, and interactive games and exercises to wake up your brain and keep it healthy. 

Sweet Dreams: The Art of Healthy Sleep with Veronica Bilicki, RN, BSN - As we age, sleep patterns can change to make restful sleep more challenging. This talk explores holistic ways to support healthy sleep through relaxation techniques, daily habits, and environmental adjustments that promote deeper, more restorative rest to heal your body and your brain.

Flyer for more Info: https://iog.wayne.edu/events/2026-art-of-aging-ada-2-page.pdf 

RSVP HEREere: https://waynestate.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_dcDoygEJ80k7ewm

FOR GROUP REGISTRATION of 6 or more, contact Donna MacDonald 248-719-0640 or ba8841@wayne.edu