Center for Optimal Aging
A vibrant and inclusive academic center that values and supports collaborations and engagements that have the goal to advance optimal aging for all.
The mission of the Marymount University Center for Optimal Aging (MCOA) is to drive and advance gerontological innovations, discoveries, and solutions to promote a meaningful, enriched, and dignified life for all.
MARYMOUNT CENTER FOR OPTIMAL AGING CORE AREAS
Marymount Center for Optimal Aging Framework
The Marymount Center for Optimal Aging works closely and collaboratively with the Marymount University Colleges and Centers to build infrastructure, resources, and best practices to advance the Center’s mission.
The Center for Optimal Aging is designed to be inclusive and diverse and will support:
- Resources for establishing, assessing, and evaluating evidence-based, health-promoting programs.
- Partners in community initiatives toward optimal and age-friendly communities.
- Resources and clearinghouse for student internships, research trainees, and service-learning that is older adult-serving.
- Advocacy for health and social policies supporting older adults.
- Systems to foster innovative interdisciplinary aging-related research.
- Resources for intergenerational activities.
- Structure for success with grants and foundation initiatives associated with older adults’ health and wellbeing.
Our research interests include a wide range of topics, including:
- Brain and environmental health
- Health promotion, physical activity, and wellness
- Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
- Caregiver and care partner
- Social determinants of health
- Falls risks and prevention
- Age-friendly communities and community health
- Aging workforce
- Cybersecurity and artificial intelligence
- Assistive technologies
- Evidence-based practice and translation
Current Events
The Virtual Matter of Balance falls prevention program is an evidence-based cognitive restructuring program that meets for 2 hours a week for 9 weeks. We focus on how we view falling, our fears of falling, and strategies for preventing a fall and invite participation in gentle exercises.
Enrollment in the Virtual Matter of Balance program requires a 9-week commitment and participation with your device camera on.
The Matter of Balance program will run from Monday, February 20 to Monday, April 24, from 3 pm to 5 pm.
There is no class Monday, March 13.
Join us for National Senior Health and Fitness Day! We will have vision and hearing screenings; fall risk assessments; fitness class demonstrations. We will also have Q&As with dietitians, pharmacists and insurance counselors and so much more! This event is Free and open to all. Sponsors include Arlington Neighborhood Village, Virginia Hospital Center and Arlington 55+ Programs.
</a