The American Society on Aging is pleased to announce that MetLife Foundation has extended its support of ASA’s MindAlert program and the 2009 MindAlert Awards for the coming year. The MindAlert Award will continue to present a $1500 cash award, 2009Aging in America Conference registration and membership benefits to each program winner in three categories. Starting this year, both ASA and non-ASA members may apply for the award. Additionally, as part of the continued funding, the program will sponsor the MetLife MindAlert Lecture series that serves as an educational tool linking research with practice and policy. A third part of the MetLife grant is the MindAlert Trainer’s Bureau, a national educational opportunity for host organizations throughout the country to learn and replicate cogitative fitness programs chosen from the MindAlert award winners.

Recognizing Innovations in Mental Fitness Programming for Older Adults aging supported through a generous grant from the MetLife Foundation, the MindAlert Awards Program recognizes programs providing valuable information and activities that support cognitive function in later life.

Awards are presented at the 2009 ASA-NCOA Aging in America Conference, March 15-19 in Las Vegas, NV. Winners have the opportunity to introduce their programs at an awards event held at the Conference. Each of the three programs will receive $1500, complimentary registration to the conference and a one-year membership in ASA.

Application form and supporting materials must be submitted no later than October 1, 2008. Application is now closed for 2009.

For more information about eligibility and on how to apply click here

Gerontechnology Consortium of Westchester, Westchester County, NYwas recognized for educational programs designed to enhance the mental fitness for the general population of older adults. The program creatively connects older adults to technology through civic engagement in an intergenerational environment. Specially trained undergraduates assist senior citizens to overcome technology fears through a series of one-on-one paired personal contacts, assistive software, and various technologies. In addition to computer skills, seniors benefit from bonding relationships with students as well as enhanced mental fitness and increased cognitive functioning.
 
The Memory Academy, Castro Valley, CA was recognized for educational programs designed to enhance the mental fitness for the general population of older adults. Developed by Diana Nohr, this exciting, comprehensive, and uplifting 12-week Adult Education program for seniors teaches students what they need to do to stay strong, sharp and independent by enhancing their mental and physical fitness.  With this newly acquired knowledge that a healthy aging brain requires regular challenges, the Academy provides group and individual activities that challenge minds by engaging and working all parts of the brain as well as physical activities for the aging body.

University of Delaware Academy of Lifelong Learning, Wilmington, DE is recognized for lifelong learning and third age learning programs. The program offers opportunities for older adults to express themselves, build cognitive reserve, and form social connections through an expansive Performing Arts program that is integrated into the academic curriculum. From beginner to advanced, multiple levels are offered for singing, playing an instrument, folk dancing, and educated listening.  The Performing Arts program has grown from nine courses in 2000 to 33 courses in 2009. Recent research has demonstrated that experiences gained from Performing Arts are particularly important for stimulating brains, promoting good health and increasing social interactions. As part of education, performance shares the experience and motivates learning.

Stagebridge Theatre, Oakland, CA is recognized for lifelong learning and third age learning programs. The Performing Arts Training Program (PATI) of Stagebridge provides a curriculum of training in the wide range of performing arts classes (acting, storytelling, playwriting, dance, improve, singing) to older adults. PATI also trains older professional artists to teach performing arts classes throughout the Bay Area senior community, thereby spreading the opportunities for older adults to participate.

The MindAlert Award Winners’ presentations were videotaped on March 18th at the Awards Luncheon held during the Aging in America Conference . The footage will be used to produce webinars available without charge to ASA members. When the webinars are scheduled, members will be notified by email. You may also wish to check for updates at www.asaging.org/webseminars