UIC recognized as part of Age-Friendly University Global Network
Introduction
The University of Illinois Chicago has been designated an age-friendly university by the Age-Friendly University Global Network, a consortium of higher-education institutions that promote healthy aging and enhance the lives of older adults.
Spearheaded by the efforts of AHS dean Carlos Crespo along with AHS associate dean for strategic initiatives and associate head of PT Sangeetha Madhavan, members of the AHS community convened a cross-campus working group to identify existing activities for older adults and guide continued progress. The resulting designation by the Age-Friendly University Global Network recognizes UIC as a place where older adults can learn, contribute and stay engaged in the community.
The Age-Friendly University Global Network aims to expand educational opportunities across the lifespan. Through 10 core principles, member institutions commit to advancing lifelong learning, second-career pathways, research opportunities and health and wellness.
“At the end of each hour, 475 individuals turn 65 in the United States; that’s 11,400 new older adults every day,” Crespo said. “Higher-education institutions, especially public universities, should remain relevant to a wide and diverse pool of prospective students seeking future-forward education and training.
“This designation further highlights our commitment to diversity and reflects a community of students, faculty and staff who are professionally equipped to engage meaningfully with people of all ages, fostering a sense of belonging for older adults,” he added.
The working group identified healthy aging and age-related research initiatives across UIC, such as the Midwest Roybal Center for Health Promotion and Translation and the Center for Health in Cognitive Aging, Aging Services Inclusive of Asian American Networks.
Programs such as Fit and Strong, Wellness Action Via Engagement for Older Family Caregivers and care initiatives at UI Health extend UIC’s work into the community.
“One of the things that really stood out to me as we worked on this application was how much is already happening across UIC around aging,” said Madhavan. “We have faculty doing important research, programs working directly with older adults and caregivers and strong partnerships with communities across Chicago and Illinois. Becoming an Age-Friendly University gives us an opportunity to connect some of that work and also ask where we can do more.”
This article has been edited for length and clarity by Emily Parenti-Lopez.