“We are the storytelling species,” writes Robert Atkinson. “We have a long history of using storytelling to build and maintain bonds within communities and families. ” With fractured or otherwise distanced biological families becoming more the norm, however, it is not surprising today that many adults are developing chosen families who can provide love and support in addition to or in place of biological family. What better way to help elders build and strengthen such creative ties of kinship than to provide them with opportunities for sharing meaningful life stories with one another? Read More >>

ASA members are asked to cast their ballots on a slate of nominees for the Board of Directors annually -- but this year’s voting will enable members to take an even more active role in shaping the fundamental structure of the association. The ASA Board recently approved extensively modified bylaws and articles of incorporation -- and the association has mailed them to the membership for consideration and adoption. “I encourage all our members to review the documents and cast a vote to help move ASA into the future,” says board chair Cynthia Stuen. Read More >>

Little research has been conducted on civic engagement of foreign-born elders in the United States -- and the research that does exist has not focused on the myriad ways these older adults are active in their communities. A new study, Community Treasures: Recognizing the Contributions of Older Immigrants and Refugees, published by the Center for Intergenerational Learning, offers a thorough introduction to the topic and provides recommendations on how to support civic engagement among immigrant and refugee elders. Read More >>

The New York City Housing Authority is the largest public housing agency in the United States. The authority also oversees naturally occurring retirement communities, senior centers and other services for elders living in public housing, where access to support can counter the risks of isolation, depression and chronic disease. With the current economic crisis threatening the future of many such programs in New York City, Caroline Weisser and Crissy Liu emphasize the vital contribution these services make to the well-being of older residents. Read More >>

The newest online learning opportunities from the American Society on Aging are two talks on cognitive fitness and brain health for elders. Sponsored by ASA’s MindAlert program with support from the MetLife Foundation, the talks feature Michael Marsiske of the University of Florida, Gainesville, and John Ratey of the Harvard Medical School offering an introduction to the latest research on ways to maintain and improve cognitive skills and brain health among older adults. Both talks are offered on demand and free of charge. Read More >>