This content was published: December 27, 2012. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.
Gerontology brain health seminar, winter term class at Newberg Center
Photos and story by Kate Chester
Recent brain research offers a wealth of insights into the distinct capabilities of learners of all ages. Beginning in January, members of the Newberg community and students at PCC’s Newberg Center (135 Werth Blvd.) will have the opportunity to learn more about changes in cognitive functioning, myths and fears related to cognitive aging, brain exercises, and healthy “brain food” in a half-day seminar, as well as in a winter term course.
“All older people experience normal changes in cognitive functioning as they age,” said Roger Anunsen, a gerontology instructor at the Sylvania Campus who will lead both the seminar and course at the Newberg Center.
There will be plenty of gerontology brain-related educational opportunities in January at the Newberg Center.
“Our goal as part of both of these opportunities is to present novel interventions based on emerging neuroscience research – for today’s older students and tomorrow’s gerontologists – and introduce them to the emerging array of techniques to engage, stimulate and enhance older minds,” he said.
On Saturday, Jan. 12, the Newberg Center will host “Aging with Brain Health in MIND,” a seminar from 8:15 a.m. to noon. Free and open to the public, the workshop will feature food and music that contributes to brain health; a presentation from Anunsen, who also will lead a question-and-answer session with attendees; and remarks from local leaders and event co-sponsors Climax Portable Machine Tools and Friendsview Retirement Community.
Beginning on Saturday, Jan. 26 – and continuing on Feb. 2 and Feb. 16 – Anunsen will teach “The Aging Mind” (GRN 175, CRN 19170) at the Newberg Center, from 9 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. Among the many topics to be tackled in this three-part course will be research related to the aging brain’s ability to learn and remember, coping skills to adapt to normal changes in cognition, myths and fears related to aging, and skills-building to develop healthy and helpful relationships with older people.
To register for the Jan. 12 seminar, please call (971) 722-8602, and leave your name, e-mail address and phone number on the voicemail. Seating is limited, and pre-registration is required.
To register for “The Aging Mind” course, please visit: www.pcc.edu/registration or call (971) 722-8602.