Course Description: Aging is associated with many changes in physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. This course will equip participants with the resources necessary to help those with whom you work navigate aging with agency, support, and information.
Participants will explore practical ways that our congregations, senior-care organizations, families, and caregivers can adapt and respond to age-related changes to enhance well-being and quality of life among older people. These changes vary according to age, gender, ethnicity/race, education, income, and access to health care, as well as nutrition, physical activity, and other health behaviors across the lifespan. The health and vitality of our faith communities, neighborhoods, and families are directly linked to how we recognize and respond to the complexities of aging.
Location: Online
With: Zeena Reegis. Zeena holds an M.Div. degree from Columbia Theological Seminary. She is a Ruling Elder in the Presbyterian Church, U.S.A., a hospice chaplain, author and curriculum writer. She is serving as a Ministry Fellow at North Decatur Presbyterian Church in Decatur, GA as she completes requirements for ordination as a Teaching Elder.
Schedule: An orientation/welcome session will take place on January 17 at 11:00 AM EST via Zoom. The remainder of the course will be primarily asynchronous; participants will not be required to log on at specific times. Optional “office hours” will be scheduled weekly for those who wish to discuss the material with the leader and other participants.
One to two topics will be covered each week. The course site will include the final schedule. Topics will include: Indicators of Well-Being; Changing Self-Identity; Belonging and Social Networks; Familial Relationships; Caregiving; Grief/Loss; End of Life Concerns; Mental, Emotional and Cognitive Wellness and Physical Health/Aging in Place.
Program Fee: $215. Discounts are available for CTS 2021 alums and faculty/staff/students/family members.
