Episode 81: Improving the Lives of Older Adults

For alternative Formats, Resources, and transcripts visit https://www.adalive.org/episode81 The month of May celebrates “Older Americans,” and recognizes the contributions and key role that older adults play in the vitality of our neighborhoods, families, and lives. One aspect of aging that can certainly impact quality of life is cognitive impairment. As the population in the United States ages, so does the number of people living with cognitive impairment. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC)* estimates more than 16 million people in the United States are living with some level of cognitive impairment and age is the greatest risk factor for cognitive impairment. In this episode, we will discuss research and resources for aging and cognitive impairment. We will also feature the ENHANCE Center, a recent grant awarded from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR). The ENHANCE Center is short for Enhancing Neurocognitive Health, Abilities, Networks, & Community Engagement. The ENHANCE Center will focus on developing technologies to improve the lives of older adults living with cognitive impairment, including mild cognitive impairment and traumatic brain injury. GUESTS: Dr. Walter Boot, Professor Department of Psychology and Faculty Affiliate of the Institute for Successful Longevity; Dr. Neil Charness, Professor of Psychology and Director of the Institute for Successful Longevity; and Dr. Sara Czaja, Professor of Gerontology at Weill Cornell Medicine