National Seminar on “Life Long Learning -- Advantage Old Age” #India Oct 2016

National Seminar

on

“Life Long Learning --  Advantage Old Age”

Focus – Rural India

International Older Persons Day Oct 1 & 2 ,2016

Jointly organized by

Chinmaya Sewa Trust Rewa,

A.P.S. University Departments of Life Long Learning ,

Distant Education

and

Dept.  of  Vedant.

Back Ground

          It is time to take a stand against ageism, presently there is a negative image of the older person in the society. The reasons can be many but the older person himself has to take the burden of proving his utility in the society.  Although there is a physical decline in old age however it is compensated by increase in wisdom.

          Thus the contribution of the older person has to be primarily mental.  It is known that with increasing life span the old- old (80+) are all the more prone to mental disabilities, if they are mentally idle. The increasing numbers of Dementia and Aliziemers are to be noted.

          Currently around 105 million older (60+) persons are in India. It is projected to be 326 million by the year 2050. Around 70% of the older people reside in rural areas. There too majority are in the unorganized sector mostly engaged in agriculture thus retiring only when they are physically incapacitated .How ever with increase in literacy and the right to education things will improve.

          As per the Registrar Generals report (2011) the percentage distribution of elderly persons by level of literacy is a follows.

Rural, male - literate through formal education 42 %, and illiterate 58%

           Female,- literate through formal education 12%, illiterate 88%

Urban – male, - literate through formal education 76%, illiterate 24%  

              Female4,- literate through formal education 20%, illiterate 80 %.

 

          It is a known fact that education has a direct impact on the quality of life of the older person as well as on his empowerment. With the concept of digital India and the widespread  use  of mobiles and internet in  rural areas the situation can be fruitfully improved.

          A two pronged approach is to be adopted. Firstly the older person should have a good quality life and secondly he should be a contributor in the welfare of the society. Thus Life Long Learning will be a step in the right direction for both the approaches mentioned.

  AIM.  

With this backdrop a two day seminar is being organized at the A.P.S. University Rewa to deliberate upon the present scenario in urban as well as rural areas, with emphasis on the latter, and also explore ways and means to enhance Life Long Learning as a contributor to Quality of Life of the older person and also enables him to play a useful role in the society.

Objectives

1.     To study the status of learning (literacy) in rural and urban areas with emphasis on the former.

2.      To study the status and the contribution of older persons to the society and the nation.

3.     Strategies to promote Life Long Learning.

4.     Role of various stake holders in promoting Life Long Learning amongst the older population.

5.     To evaluate the various subjects useful in Life Long Learning and their effects.

Themes of the Seminar

1.     Ancient strategies of Life Long Learning vis-a-vis old age.

2.     Spirituality and old age.

3.     Digital India and old age.

4.     Beat Ageism

5.     Role of Government and NGO’s in Life Long Learning.

6.     Life Long Learning and Quality of Life.

Participants – Educational Intuitions, NGOs, individuals and research scholars working in the field of welfare of older persons are invited to participate in the Seminar.

Travel and Hospitality – The organizers will not provide travel grants. Participants are requested to explore their own travel grants and hospitality. The organizers will facilitate accommodation with prior information.

Mode of Submission - The participants are requested to submit the papers only on the themes mentioned above. An abstract (not exceeding 300 words) of the paper should reach the coordinator of the seminar on or before 10^th Sep. 2016 by an e-mail attachment. The abstract/full length paper must contain the title of the paper and affiliation of author(s) and keywords. Papers are to be submitted by e-mail to drsajjansingh@gmail.com

Time Frame

Abstract submersion            - 10.09.2016

Acceptances                        - 20.09.2016

Full paper submission          - 25.09.2016

About the Organizers

Chinmaya Sewa Trust Rewa is a Spiritual Charitable Public Trust registered under the M.P. Public Trust Act 1951 in 1982, with the aim to provide an environment for the spiritual resurrection of the society and also a place where elderly people could spend their old age in peaceful and spiritual surroundings. In pursuance of these objectives many workshop and seminar have been held on related topics of Gerontology and spirituality in the modern context. 

·        Dept. Of Life Long Learning of A.P.S. University.

·        Dept. Of Vedant, A.P.S. University.

·        Dept of Distant Education of A.P.S. University.

Contact Person

Dr. Sajjan Singh

Managing Trustee

Chinmaya Sewa Trust

Shiva Kuti, Ravndra Nagar Rewa

Email: drsajjansingh@gmail.com 

Mob 919425185661

Citizen Journalism (CJ) , Exclusive 3 days course for Senior Citizens at Mumbai

The JM Foundation for Excellence in Journalism announces a new module of its Citizen Journalism programme from September 30 to October 2, 2011 (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) , this time exclusively for senior citizens. Individuals aged 60 years and above are eligible to apply.

Silver Inning Foundation promotes this unique programme for Senior Citizens for the empowerment of silver citizens across the country AND to harness the wisdom and experience of senior citizens towards a deeper participation in our democracy.

What
The course is designed as an extended weekend programme stretching over three days. Specialists from areas connected with the content of this course, professionals and domain experts would be conducting the training and information exchange programme.


Why
Increasingly, the citizen is being asked to contribute to the news gathering process, either through write ups, pictures, video or information. Moreover, there are issues which need to be reported about. Be it environment, transport or water conservation. Often, it could be something as critical as an inadequacy we notice in the state's performance.

But how does one go about it. How does one gather facts? How do one verify these facts? If one needs to seek information, does one know how to avail of the Right to Information (RTI) process? What are the basic laws which one is governed by, or which one sees being violated time and again, and against which one can raise a voice? Does one know the basic traffic and civic laws and redressal mechanisms, the penal code and basic constitutional rights. Does one know the process of seeking redressal? How do the courts in India function? Can I be heard there and how?
This and much more could be the reasons a citizen should avail this programme.

Who
This module has been tailored exclusively for individuals of/above 60 years of age. No formal qualification needed. You need to have a basic understanding of reading and writing.

Course Contents
Some of the key areas covered in the course include Citizen Journalism backgrounder and how it is practiced globally, basics of reporting, news gathering, presenting the story through words and pictures, ethics including accuracy and fairness, laws including slander and privacy, introduction to Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Criminal Procedure Code, civic laws and use of technology in Citizen Journalism.

Reporting by Citizen Journalists will be put on a portal dedicated to citizen journalism called CitizensReport.in

Eligibility
Any senior citizen interested in becoming a citizen journalist. Basic language skills in any Indian language or English needed.

Where
St. Andrew's College, Bandra (W), Mumbai.

When
September 30 - October 2, 2011. (Friday, Saturday, Sunday). 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.

Fee:
Rs. 1250/-inclusive of reading material, food on all three days,and a certificate of participation. Senior citizens keen on registering in groups of five and above can avail of a further discount of Rs. 250/- per participant.

To register:
1. Download and fill out the soft copy of the registration form , click here : http://journalism.org.in/index.html
2. Mail the form as an attachment to lavanya.varadrajan@journalism.org.in
3. Send a draft or cheque of the requisite fee amount favouring "JM Foundation for Excellence in Journalism" to:
JM Foundation for Excellence in Journalism
104 Sanjay Appa Chambers, 83 Guru Hargobindraiji Marg,http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
AG Link Road, Andheri (E), Mumbai 400093.

Contact:
Lavanya Varadrajan: 022-40155197 / +91-98207 87949 / +91-98209 85853
lavanya.varadrajan@journalism.org.in

Programme Directors
Shishir Joshi and Aloke Thakore


Shishir Joshi was till recently the Group Editorial Director of the Mid-Day group of publications, which includes Mid-Day (Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Pune), Sunday Mid-Day, Gujarati Mid-Day and Inquilab. Prior to Mid-Day, Joshi was with the TV Today group, where he was executive editor. He has also been editorial consultant for the Sahara group, helping set up TV channels across India as well as recruiting and training professionals for them. Prior to that he was with NDTV as its sole business news correspondent based out of Mumbai. He has worked with CNN.com, written for Reuters and AFP and has contributed to UK based ITN-Channel 4 News and has been the South Asia Representative of Peter Arnett's Broadcast News Network (BNN TV). A law graduate, he is a Chevening Scholar. He is the co-founder of Journalism Mentor.

Aloke Thakore is a journalist, researcher and teacher. He has worked in print and television. At various times he has reported, written columns, authored academic articles, anchored programmes, taught at university and colleges, and coached in news rooms. He has also helped launched newspapers and magazines both as editorial and management consultant. He counts many journalists and media professionals among his students and trainees. A Media Leadership Fellow of the Poynter Institute for Media Studies, he has a Ph.D. in Mass Communications from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, an AM in International Relations from the University of Chicago, an MS in Journalism from the University of Kansas. His first degree is from Calcutta University. He is the co-founder of Journalism Mentor.

Background
Citizen Journalism with its variants in Public Journalism or Civic Journalism acquired the accoutrements of a movement in the early 2000s, particularly in the United States. But the origins of Citizen Journalism are as old as journalism, when pamphlets and reports were issued by citizens. Some of the most powerful pieces of journalistic writing can be traced back to individual initiatives of citizens as reporters not reporters as professionals.
The need for citizens as journalists and for citizen journalists has been increasingly felt as media companies with their business and professional news gathering models do not necessarily commit enough resources to covering issues that beset a democracy such as ours or do not have any incentive to cover problems from a wide swathe of society. But not covering these problems and issues does not wish away the reality. And that is precisely where citizen journalists can reclaim the conversation. It needs to be remembered that the freedom of the press in India is an extension of the freedom of expression given to each citizen.
JM Foundation for Excellence in Journalism believes that India needs vigorous citizen journalism since it is well nigh impossible, for various reasons, for the news media organizations to cover all issues that need to be brought into the public eye. Hence, we have launched a Citizen Journalism initiative, which will both train citizen journalists and also provide them with a forum where they report.


JM Foundation for Excellence in Journalism
104, Sanjay Appa Chambers,
First Floor, Plot No 82,
Guru Hargobindraiji Marg,
A. G. Link Road, Andheri (E),
Mumbai – 400 093
Phone Nos: +91-22-4015 5384 / 197
http://www.journalism.org.in
http://www.journalismmentor.in
http://www.citizensreport.in

World Elder’s Day 2011: “UMANG - A Talent show of Senior Citizens” by Silver Inning Foundation

Leelabai Thackersey College of Nursing (SNDT Women’s University)& Silver Inning Foundation Presents “UMANG. A Talent show of Senior Citizens” by Silver Inning Foundation.

"Ageing is not 'lost youth' but a new stage of opportunity and strength"


Silver Inning Foundation, an dedicated organisation for Elders, celebrates its 4th World Elders Day ' 2011 by presenting UMANG, A Senior Citizens Stage Talent Show on 3rd Oct 2011.

On the occasion of World Elders Day on 1st October 2011 & National Conference on Gerontology “Healthy and Productive Ageing - The Need Of The Hour” on 3rd October & 4th October 2011 Silver Inning Foundation in association with L.T.College of Nursing once again organizes UMANG - A Stage Talent Show program for Senior Citizens. As there are not enough opportunity for elderly to show their talent, the main purpose of this program is to provide a platform for Elderly to display their talents. This is not a competition between Elderly but a forum to encourage them to demonstrate their hidden talent. After success of UMANG in 2008 , 2009 & 2010 we are happy to once again organise and promote stage talent of our Elderly. Over the time our changing tradition has dampened the spirits of senior citizens by suggesting that they can no longer contribute to society and benefit from being active. But we don’t have to accept this reasoning for our elderly parents, friends, or neighbours. We can help them maximize their health and vitality by keeping them active and involved in the world around them.

So we request all those Talented Seniors who are above 50 yrs to enroll for the Talent Show. This is not an competition but a Show to reveal your talent. All the Participation will get Certificate of Appreciation. There are No Prizes.



Programme:
Talent Show by Elderly

Age limit for participant: 50 yrs +

Types of Performance eligible for Entries:
• One act Play
• Singing
• Music performance – Solo or in group of Maximum 4 people
• Dance – Solo
• Group Dance - in group of Maximum 4 people
• Street Play – Maximum 4 people
• Mimicry
• Drama - maximum with 4 people
• Street Play - maximum with 4 people
• Original Poetry reciting
• Any special talent


Max entry allowed: A person or a group can have only one act. No artist will perform twice. Total 8 entries will be accepted. That means there will be total of 8 acts only.

Duration for each act: Maximum 8 Minutes

Last Date for Entries/Registration on First come first basis: 27th Sep 2011

Venue: Patkar Hall , SNDT Women’s University , 1, Nathibai Thackersey Road , New Marine Lines, Mumbai-400020

Event Date: Monday 3rd Oct 2011 (part of National Conference on Gerontology)

Entry: Rs.10/- as token entry fee

Time of Event: 6pm to 7.30 pm

Registration: Only 8 ACTS on First come first basis

Contact here to participate: 9987104233 – Mon to Friday 10am to 6pm Email: silverinnings@gmail.com

Give your Full Name, Area where you reside, info about your Act and contact number/ email id .


So Hurry and enroll to show your talent.

Note: Pls note in case of more then 8 entries, the selection committee of Silver Inning Foundation will have all the rights to select Best 8 for performance. The selection committee will have final say on selection.

FREE Dementia / Geriatric Workshop by Dr.Neela Patel MD,MPH ,USA: 13th & 14th July 2011

Silver Inning Foundation (SIF) Invites you to for the following workshop in Mumbai. This is our continuous effort to make the society Elder Friendly, for well being of our Senior Citizens.


Dr.Neela Patel is MD,MPH ,Assistant Professor,Division of Community Geriatrics, Department of Family and Community Medicine,UT Health Science Centre , San Antonio,USA. She is here in India for our Dementia Pilot Study ' Stigma attached to Dementia in Urban India' from 11th to 14th July. This study is done by Columbia University,USA & TISS in association with SIF. During her trip she thought we could do a training cum Workshop in Dementia/Geriatrics:


The Tentative Topics for Interactive Workshop will be :
• Interdisciplinary Care
• Dementia - types and behaviours
• Geriatrics Syndromes : bathing , repetitive , incontinence , delirium , agitation etc

Workshop Date , Venue and Time:
1. L.T.College of Nursing (SNDT) Churchgate, 5th Floor , above Patkar Hall, Churchgate, Mumbia Wed 13th July 1.30pm (sharp) to 4.30pm .
2. Bhaktivedanta Hospital , Auditorium , 5th Floor , Mira Road on Thu 14th July 12.30pm (sharp) to 3.30pm .

NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON GERONTOLOGY “Healthy and Productive Ageing- The Need Of The Hour” (3rd October and 4th October 2011) Mumbai ,India

Leelabai Thackersey College of Nursing (SNDT University),Mumbai is celebrating its Diamond Jubilee in the year 2011-2012 ,and as part of it is holding various workshops , National Conference and an International Conference.

It has planned to host National Conference on Gerontology at Patkar Hall Mumbai on 3rd and 4th October 2011. The main focus will be Geriatric Nursing and this kind of National conference on Geriatric Nursing is hosted 1st time in Maharashtra.

Population ageing is pervasive, a global phenomenon affecting every man, woman and child. The steady increase of older age groups in national populations, both in absolute numbers and in relation to the working-age population, has a direct bearing on the intergenerational and intragenerational equity and solidarity that are the foundations of society.

Population ageing is enduring. During the twentieth century the proportion of older persons continued to rise, and this trend is expected to continue into the twenty-first century. The elderly will outnumber children for the first time in 2045, according to a new UNDESA report. IN 2009, THE GLOBAL POPULATION OF PEOPLE AGED 60 AND OVER was 680 million people, representing 11 percent of the world's population. They have increased by 10.4 million just since 2007—an average increase of 30,000 each day.

China and India have the largest older populations. By 2050, China will see its number of elders grow 30% from 109 million to 350 million—India, from 86 million to 240 million.

Today India has 2nd largest Aging Population at 100 million after China , hence, we take this opportunity in holding a National Gerontology Conference and address the issue. The theme for the conference is “Healthy and Productive Ageing- The need of the hour”. It is an unique issue that spares none. The Gerontology Boom predicted in the near future calls for the involvement of the common man from all walks of life to provide expert care to this fragile, yet significant segment of the society.

“In the social sphere, population ageing influences family composition and living arrangements, housing demand, epidemiology and the need for healthcare services.”


Aim: The conference aims at equipping nurses and the common man from any walk of life to care for the elderly.

Objectives:
At the end of the conference, the participants will develop an overview regarding following aspects related to Gerontological care.

1. Concept and Process of ageing
2. Concept of hospital without walls
3. Issues and concerns in ageing
4. Health related problems in the elderly
5. Problems of older women
6. Medico-legal issues in geriatric care

Organisation like ILC –I (International Longevity Center – India) , Silver Inning Foundation (SIF) are collaborator ( as on 2nd July 2011).

If you want to participate, attend or sponsor the event please contact us at earliest.


Contact:
Leelabai Thackersey College of Nursing
SNDT Women’s University
1, Nathibai Thackersey Road
New Marine Lines,
Mumbai-400020

Mrs Shobha Gaikwad - Assistant Professor
(National Conference Secretary)
Website: http://www.ltcnsndt.org/
Email : nationalconferenceltcollege@gmail.com ; shobhagaikwad2005@yahoo.co.in

First time in Mumbai unique 'Dementia Care Giver Training Programme' May 2011

Silver Inning Foundation in association with ARDSI Greater Mumbai Chapter & Supported by Harmony for Silvers Foundation Presents: ‘Quality Dementia Care Framework’ . Dementia Care Giver Training workshop By Mrs. Nilanjana Maulik: Expert Trainer & Director of Dementia Services, ARDSI Calcutta Chapter


Background:
Dementia is a progressive brain dysfunction (in Latin 'dementia' means irrationality), which results in a restriction of daily activities and in most cases leads in the long term to the need for care. Dementia is one of the major causes of disability in late-life. Many diseases can result in dementia, the most common one being Alzheimer's disease. It mainly affects older people; about 2% of cases start before the age of 60 years. After this, the prevalence doubles every five years. Dementia affects each person and family differently. As dementias progress, there are notable changes in memory, thinking, language, behavior and function — all of which require different skills and strategies. Very few of us have a natural born knack for care giving. Most caregivers have to learn and practice these new skills. It is estimated that over 3.7 million people are affected by dementia in our country. This is expected to double by 2030. The challenge posed by dementia as a health and social issue is of a scale we can no longer ignore. Despite the magnitude, there is gross ignorance, neglect and scarce services for people with dementia and their families.

Need:
The importance of taking care of elderly has become more relevant in India due to the increased lifespan and consequent increase in the population of the aged. As a result of the demographic transition and changing family structure, care of aged is emerging as concern of modern times. The support system and care giving that had been earlier available in the traditional family set up for the elderly has withered away. One of the most important components of developing dementia services in the Country is training health human resources. We at Silver Inning Foundation like other NGO’s have realize the implications of the increasing aging population in the country, and responded by creating care programmes and delivery services aimed at meeting the needs of older persons.
The Training of Care Giver for people with Dementia has evolved with parting of knowledge and innovative ways of empowering the family members and professionals to gain skill sets that could help them in Management of Dementia. By undertaking such Geriatric care trainings we at Silver Inning Foundation will achieve our vision of creating an Elder Friendly World where Ageing becomes a Positive and Rewarding Experience.


Objectives:

• To create awareness about dementia and its various types.
• To educate volunteers and caregivers to identify early warning signs of dementia and early prevention of dementia.
• To train volunteers and caregivers to disseminate knowledge about dementia to local population and Senior Citizens.
• To enhance the capacity & skills of Care givers in managing elderly with dementia.


Date: Friday 6th May to Sunday 8th May (3 Full Days)

Timing: 10am to 5.30pm

Venue : Harmony Interactive Centre ,Harmony for Silvers Foundation,5th, Floor Zaobawadi Lane, Next to Ram Mandir , Thakurdwar,Girgaum , Mumbai .Maharashtra 400002. Office- 3297-6440 / 3297-6441

Who can participate: Social Workers, Medical Professionals, Nursing Students, Family Members, Care Givers, Psychologist, Gerontologist, Geriatricians, Legal Professional, Police Professionals, Senior Citizens and Staff of NGO/Old Age Homes

Eligibility:
• Minimum Age - 18 years and above
• Minimum education- 10th +
• Must have Passion to serve.

Language of Training: English

Methodology:
The methodology of training would include lecture cum discussions, case presentations, group exercises, role play and efforts would be made to make the training participatory in approach. Pre and post assessment evaluation of the participants on knowledge base would be conducted at the beginning and end of the course respectively.

Highlights of Basic Curriculum:
Definition, nature and type of Dementia, Myth and Fact, Symptoms/Identification of Dementia Patients, Role-Play, Group Work, Brain Boosters/other exercises, Documentary, Care Giver Experience etc

What you will get:
• Knowledge & skill for Dementia management
• Certificate of Participation
• Free Leaflets/notes
• Books on dementia/care giving will be available at Rs.275/175/-
• Free Volunteer Membership to Silver Inning Foundation & ARDSI Greater Mumbai Chapter

Number of Participant: minimum 15 to maximum 30 (first come first basis)


How to register: Rs. 700/- p.p. non residential (inclusive of lunches, refreshments and materials).

Special rates of Rs.500/- p.p. for Senior Citizens who are age 50yrs and above .

Rs. 500/- early bird discount until 15th April 2011.

Please note there will be no refund of registration fees in event of cancellation by the participant.

Note: Last date for registration is 30th April 2011.

Please send the filled-in form along with the Chq payment to:
Silver Innings, C/o Sailesh Mishra, ARENA III, Flat - 801/802, Poonam Garden, Mira Road -East, Mumbai. India – 401107.

Contact person:
Ms. Mona - 09987104233
Ms. Laxmi Rao – 9029000091
Email: silverinnings@gmail.com



Organized by Silver Innings, a social Enterprise for Age Care. Silver Innings is working towards creating an Elder Friendly World where Ageing becomes a Positive and Rewarding Experience.
www.silverinnings.com

UN INIA INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMME IN HEALTH PROMOTION,QUALITY OF LIFE & WELL-BEING of Elderly : 2 – 13 May 2011, Malta

BACKGROUND
Developed countries have seen an unprecedented mass increase in numbers of older people, and now face the challenge of mass survival of the old old. They are struggling to evolve strategies to meet this challenge. Developing countries are and will face in the next three decades more than a doubling of their elderly. The very rapid onset of this enormous increase will have a dramatic impact on countries which are largely unprepared for this tidal wave of ageing - as they lack the necessary infrastructure of policies and personnel to meet the challenge, which will be made even more grave as the very development they are undergoing itself tends to erode and undermine the traditional pattern of care in extended families.

OBJECTIVES
The objective of this programme is to stimulate discussion and understanding of the relationship between health promotion, quality of life and well-being from a life-course perspective. This is done in the context of the highly complex and multifaceted nature of growing old in society. Special emphasis is put on the totality of the human being including health, social and economic aspects. Health problems related to older persons in developing countries will be highlighted.

AREAS OF CONCENTRATION
The programme is divided into lectures, seminars and site-visits to local facilities. Topics include: the Nature of Ageing; the Relation between Ageing and Disease; Health Expectancies; Risk Factors; the Burden of Chronic Disease and Disabilities; Dementia and other major conditions prevalent at Older Age; Policies and Practices for Health Promotion; Prevention; Holistic Care and Rehabilitation: Financing Care.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND THIS COURSE
This programme is aimed at upper level health professionals (from the various disciplines) holding or being proposed for leadership positions in the care of older persons and having being able to assure responsibility for health service planning, delivery and training with a potential to disseminate the acquired information.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Interested persons and organisations may apply by sending the following to: The Director, International Institute on Ageing, 117, St. Paul Street, Valletta VLT 1216, MALTA
1. An application form which is available through the Institute's web-site or directly from INIA.
2. Proof of proficiency in English.
3. A letter of recommendation from the Director of your organization.
4. A personal letter (giving reasons for attending the course).
5. Copies of relevant certificates.


Closing date for application is 1 March 2011.

Course Fee: US$2,680 (includes tuition, board-accommodation and meals but excludes travel).

INIA might have available a limited number of partial scholarships. However, since these are extremely limited, it is in the interest of prospective candidates to secure alternative sources of funding.


Contact:
International Institute on Ageing, (United Nations - Malta
117, St. Paul Street,
Valletta VLT 1216, MALTA.
Telephone: (+356) 21-243044/5/6
Telefax: (+356) 21-230248
E-mail: programmes@inia.org.mt
Web-site: http://www.inia.org.mt

UN INIA International Training Programme in Social Gerontology : 14 - 25 February 2011, Malta

BACKGROUND
The dramatic and unprecedented increase in the number and proportion of older persons in the World will lead to unique political, economic and social consequences. In developing countries, where by the year 2025, seventy-two per cent of the World’s older persons will live, this demographic development will pose a particular challenge. Although a number of developing countries have initiated various innovative and concrete measures aimed at meeting the needs of older persons, there exists an acute shortage of trained care-givers at all levels in the field of Gerontology.

OBJECTIVES
This multi-disciplinary Training Programme in Social Gerontology, designed by an International Expert Group, aims at providing a broad and up-to-date understanding of the complex and far-reaching consequences of mass longevity. Participants are helped to evolve and implement appropriate policies, which will ensure for older persons, a high quality of life in their own society.

AREAS OF CONCENTRATION
The programme consists of lectures, site visits and workshops. Topics dealt with include: Basic Concepts in Social Gerontology; Demographic Determinants and Consequences; Socio-Cultural Changes and their Impact; Economics of Ageing; Environment and Ageing; Health Aspects of Ageing; Social Care in the Family; Community and Institutions and the Needs of Special Concern Groups. Candidates will also be given an opportunity to pursue one of the following skills: Social Policy Development; Community Development Programmes and Services and Health Promotion and Disease Prevention.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND THIS COURSE
Applications are invited from social workers and trainers in the field of Ageing in developing countries. Applicants should have one of the following pre-requisites:
1. Be directly engaged in social service delivery for older persons in the statutory, voluntary or private sectors in their own country.
2. Be trainers with a potential to provide leadership in securing a better social service delivery system to older persons.
3. Be active in awareness development in the field of ageing.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Interested persons and organisations may apply by sending the following to:
The Director, International Institute on Ageing, 117 St. Paul Street, Valletta VLT 1216, MALTA
1. An application form which is available through the Institute's web-site or directly from INIA.
2. Proof of proficiency in English.
3. A letter of recommendation from the Director of your organization.
4. A personal letter (giving reasons for attending the course).
5. Copies of relevant certificates.


Closing date for applications is 22nd January, 2011.

Course Fee: US$2, 680 (includes tuition, board-accommodation and meals but excludes travel).

INIA might have available a limited number of partial scholarships. However, since this is not guaranteed, it is in the interest of prospective candidates to secure alternative funding.


Contact:
International Institute on Ageing, United Nations - Malta, 117, St. Paul Street,
Valletta VLT 1216, MALTA.
Telephone: (+356) 21-243044/5/6
Telefax : (+356) 21-230248
E-mail: programmes@inia.org.mt
Web site: http://www.inia.org.mt

26th International Conference of Alzheimer's Disease International 2011

Top 10 reasons why delegates should attend the 2011 Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) Conference.

One-stop opportunity: If you attend only one Alzheimer conference this year, this is it. Up to 1,500 international delegates devoted to all matters Alzheimer's will convene in one convenient place. It's one of the largest and most important conferences in North America.

Sparking ideas and solutions: A packed agenda that covers all aspects of Alzheimer's disease and dementia allows for sharing experiences and gaining new knowledge with colleagues worldwide.

Groundbreaking content: Hear, learn and debate Alzheimer issues that matter today in a friendly setting of informative sessions, face-to-face meetings, dynamic presentations, special exhibits and more.

Unparalleled networking opportunities: Meet and connect with leading dementia experts in a variety of fields for fresh new insights in Alzheimer's and dementia research, care and policy. Hear firsthand the experiences of caregivers and people with the disease.

A truly global conference: Take part in a truly global experience and find out what other countries are doing to change the face of dementia. Last year's ADI Conference attracted delegates from over 40 countries.

Register Here: http://www.adi2011.org/default.aspx?PageID=Home

Eden Alternative Training this Oct 2010 in India: Ten-Principle Philosophy to improving quality of life for Elders

Silver Inning Foundation through Ms.Reis Woollen brings Eden Alternative Training to India.

Its 1st time in India and South East Asia that Eden Alternative Training is happening.

Eden at Home (EAH) applies our Ten-Principle Philosophy to improving quality of life for Elders living at home and their care partners. A community-based approach to person-centered care, EAH focuses on building collaborative care partner teams that include the active participation of the Elder herself. Working together, empowered care partner teams help to ensure the independence, dignity, and continued growth and development of our Elder care partners and each other.

What does attending this workshop provide?

After training, you will inspire care partners, both within their organization and out in the community, to:

* Reframe perceptions of aging and disability
* Work together to reduce stress & burnout
* Build strategies on strengths, rather than limitations
* Develop meaningful connections with each other
* Create opportunities for all to give as well as receive
* Communicate effectively & thoughtfully
* Share joy, hope, wisdom, spontaneity, & respect
* Prevent loneliness, helplessness, & boredom for all on the care partner team

Date: Oct. 30-31, 2010

Time: 9.30am to 4.30pm

Programme:
Eden Alternative Training
www.edenalt.org

Host:

Eden Educator:
Reis Woollen ,Silver Inning Foundation

Venue:
10 Golf Links, Krishna Apartment 4th floor
Union Park, Khar west, Mumbai,India.

Please note this 1st training is already full.

So does this interests you , please do write to us for holding Eden Alternative Training in your organization/city in India or your country at : silverinnings@gmail.com

About:

The Eden Alternative: The Eden Alternative is a small not-for-profit organization making a big difference in the world. Based on the core belief that aging should be a continued stage of development and growth, rather than a period of decline.The Eden Alternative 10 Principles is seeking to remake the experience of aging around the world. The core concept of The Eden Alternative is strikingly simple. Dr. William Thomas, his wife Judy, the Eden home office staff, 50 Eden Educators, 60 mentors and more than 15,000 associates teach that where elders live must be habitats for human beings, not sterile medical institutions. They are dedicated to eliminating the plagues of loneliness, helplessness, and boredom that make life intolerable in most of today’s long-term care facilities.

Silver Inning Foundation: Silver Inning Foundation is registered NGO dedicated for the cause of Senior Citizens. It is part of social enterprise Silver Innings which hosts one of the most comprehensive and dedicated website for elderly &their family www.silverinnigs.com . The vision, mission and goals of SIF are centered on creating and implementing services and programmes that are holistic in nature and address the need to acknowledge the much needed supportive environment that the elderly deserve. It looks at reintegrating the elderly into mainstream society and lives with dignity. Silver Innings is working towards creating Elder Friendly World where Ageing becomes a Positive and Rewarding Experience.

Reis Woollen: Ms.Reis Woollen (RN-BC, BSN/BSc, CRRN) who is trained Geriatric Nurse from California has successfully completed The Eden Alternative Associates and Eden Educator training. Reis is currently working with Silver Inning Foundation as Director-Eldercare Education.

Posted on 29^th Oct 2010 by Sailesh Mishra , Founder President, Silver Inning Foundation

GERON 2010 :6th Annual Conference of the Indian Association for Geriatric Mental Health

1st Announcement for 6th Annual Conference of the Indian Association for Geriatric Mental Health

The Theme of the conference: Healthy Ageing: From Concept to Reality

Date: 4th and 5th of Sept 2010

Venue: Mirage Hotel , Andheri – East , Mumbai, India


So please block date 4th and 5th of Sept for GERON 2010.More information will follow.



IAGMH President & Hon. Organizing Chairperson:
Dr. Charles Pinto

Hon. Organizing Secretary:
Dr.Alka.A.Subramanyam

Hon. Jt. Organizing Secretary:
Dr.Jahanvi Kedare
Dr.Bindoo Jadhav
Mr.Sailesh Mishra


Contact:
Conference Secretariat:
GERON 2010
Dr. Alka. A. Subramanyam
C/o. Varriance Conferences & Event Pvt. Ltd.
B/519, Aurus Chambers,
S. H. Amrutwar Marg,
Worli, Mumbai – 400013.
Tel: +91 22 24940517
Fax: +91 22 24945020
Email: geron2010@varriance.com

You can also write to silverinnings@gmail.com for more info.

AARP Statement to the 54th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women

United Nations Commission on the Status of Women
Fifty-fourth Session- 1 - 13 March 2010

Priority Theme: Follow-up to the Fourth World Conference on Women and to the twenty-third special session of the General Assembly

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization of nearly 40 million members whose mission is to enhance the quality of life for women and men as we age. AARP has collaborated with the United Nations (UN) for more than 35 years by participating in major conferences and helping to forge an international constituency on aging. Since its founding in 1958, AARP has served as a key source of global information and advocacy on issues affecting aging populations, and strengthened the network of advocates who believe that everyone should age with dignity and purpose.

AARP is pleased to participate in the 54^th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women. AARP commends the UN on the initiatives it has undertaken over the years to advance the rights and interests of women around the world, especially the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), the Beijing Platform of Action (BPFA), the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, the and the Millennium Development Goals (MDG).

Yet, much remains to be done. If the promise of these landmark agreements is to be fully realized, governments must step up efforts to implement them, and this requires more political will, resources, and follow-through than are presently on the table. Time is of the essence, particularly for older women across the planet.

We have now entered the second decade of what is being called the "century of aging," the dimensions of which are well known. Among the most daunting projections are these: by 2045, for the first time in history, the global population of people 60 and over will exceed the number of children. By 2050, 22 out of every 100 people will be over 60, up from only 8 out of every 100 people in 1950. And, by 2050, one in five people in developing countries will be over 60.

Yet, the implications of this dramatic demographic transition for older women are not as well known, even 15 years after the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Their prospects for better health, economic security, legal protections, and freedom from violence, among other basic necessities - are far from clear.

The principal significance of the Beijing process for older women was that it recognized age discrimination as a barrier to their empowerment and advancement. The Declaration also highlighted factors that continue to make older women vulnerable throughout the life-course - poverty, poor health, domestic violence, labor inequality, and armed conflict. While the concerns of older women around the world are generally not considered to have been a priority of the Beijing deliberations, it is fair to state that they were at least pulled from the shadows and acknowledged, to some degree.

As well, with major demographic shifts on the horizon, the Declaration and Platform of Action made prescient calls for: 1) more age-disaggregated data to better assess the disposition of older women; and 2) government actions aimed at mitigating the threats to their well-being. Two fundamental questions before this Commission are one, whether the international community now has - 15 years post-Beijing - a better understanding of the contexts in which older women live, and two, to what extent older women and population aging are priorities going forward.

A perpetual problem that has bedeviled efforts to address issues related to older women is the sheer dearth of information about them and on them - information that could form the basis of public policies designed to support their interests and needs. Global statistics do provide us with a useful but rough portrait of older women as a population segment, but they also "mask the very different contexts in which older women live," as the 2008 Recommendation on the adoption of a General recommendation on the rights of older women submitted to CEDAW has noted.

For example, we know that older women (19%) are more likely to live alone than older men (8%). We know that more men (80%) over 60 are married than women (48%) over 60. We know that twice as many men (40%) over 60 are in the labor force as women (20%) over 60. And, we know that older women continue to live longer than older men.

What we do not know, however, is what these numbers and trends mean from country to country. This information void is a systemic problem that continues to jeopardize the security of millions of older women around the world. In many countries, the lack of information is so abysmal for older women that basic identification documentation to access entitlements and social protections is unobtainable.

A 2009 World Health Organization (WHO) Report, Women and health: today's evidence, tomorrow's agenda, commented directly on the systemic nature of the information void with regard to health, noting that: "The foundations of better information about women and health need to be strengthened, including cause of death by age and sex - and collection and use of sex-disaggregated data on common problems."

There are some reasons for optimism with respect to designating older women as a future priority issue area. For one, MDG #3 and #5 stand as age-neutral approaches for addressing the basic causes of women's disempowerment. The Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing has raised awareness of aging and its gender implications, and charted pathways toward greater empowerment. Older women's rights have been singled out with the CEDAW decision to develop a specific recommendation on the rights of older women, referenced above. This is a promising initiative that could permanently enshrine these rights into international law.

As an organization with a special interest in strengthening social protections that enable older women to enjoy greater economic security and healthier lives, AARP hopes to see more robust actions on the part of governments aimed at meeting their commitments to women. With the increase in life expectancy and rising numbers of older women, their health concerns require particular attention. And as older women continue to take on disproportionate work burdens to support their families and communities, the considerable obstacles they face in securing wage, benefit and pension equality must be addressed.

It is clear that governments do indeed have much to do to improve prospects for empowerment and advancement of women as they age, particularly at a time when population aging is having an impact on the ways societies provide for their citizens. AARP encourages the Commission to build on the momentum of the MDGs and continue to raise awareness about the special needs and concerns of older women. We thank you for convening this critical session.

Source:http://www.aarpinternational.org/resourcelibrary/resourcelibrary_show.htm?doc_id=1178031

Silver Economy:The economic benefits of demographic change

"In any political debate, demographic change and ageing are commonly regarded as a threat. What is required, however, is a shift in both, focus and approach: We need to consider demographic change and the ageing of our society as a challenge and as an opportunity for both, economic growth and improving Europe's competitiveness. In the "Silver Economy Network of European Regions", we emphasise the economic opportunities inherent in this demographic change. Today, senior citizens across Europe enjoy a far greater choice when spending their money on products and services."

At the European level we should consider the achievements of the different societies - in terms of culture and in economic fields of action when considering ways to improve the qualities ranging from services, tourism, culture, wellness, and health to products and services which help support independent living.

As European politicians, decision makers in organisations as well as senior citizens themselves more strongly embrace this perspective, new powerful markets for products, services, economic co-operatives and networks will emerge from which all European regions can economically benefit. Within the Silver Economy Network of European Regions (SEN@ER), we expect the development and implementation of the "Silver Economy" to have a positive impact on economic growth and job creation in Europe.

We are convinced that senior citizens will add a major impetus to significant parts of the economy. For North Rhine-Westphalia - Germany's largest state with a population of roughly 18 million - where the state government initiated a "Silver economy" initiative, recent calculations have shown that a proactive response to the needs and interests of the elderly could lead to some 100.000 new jobs. Similar calculations for Germany as a whole predict more than 900.000 new jobs in the "Silver Economy" within the next two decades. There are no other sectors or businesses with a higher growth potential. These calculations should be comparable to other regions and countries in Europe.

The European Union needs a European "Silver Economy" initiative to further improve the quality of life for older citizens and to reap the benefits of the demographic change in terms of economic growth, jobs, employment and competitiveness. This initiative should be developed by the Commission and eventually implemented at all regional levels.

The "Silver Economy Network of European Regions" has been developed by North Rhine-Westphalia along with Andalucia (ES), Burgenland (AT), Extremadura (ES), Gelderland (NL), Limburg (NL), Lower Silesia (PL), Mid-East Region Ireland (IE), Midland Region Ireland (IE), Scotland (UK) and West-Midlands (UK). The network is alive! We are actively developing concepts to further implement relevant projects and activities. We are confident that the European Parliament, the European Commission and the European Council will support us and look forward to a multitude of European activity also at the political level.

Speech by Armin Laschet,North Rhine-Westphalia Minister for the Generations, Family, Women and Integration

Source: http://www.silvereconomy-europe.org/index.html

4th European Silver Economy Conference :Limoges (France) January 2010

After the successful European Silver Economy conferences in Bonn (Germany) in 2005, Maastricht (Netherlands) 2006 and Sevilla (Spain) 2007, the 2010 conference will be hosted by the SEN@ER partner Conseil Régional Limousin from 29 – 29 January 2010 in Limoges.

The conference will include amongst others a roundtable on "Regional silver economy and ageing strategies - examples and lessons learned" with experts from different European regions and a series of parallel workshops on

• WS1: "Strategies for ageing in the area of employment and voluntary work",
• WS2: "Ageing well and well-being" and
• WS3: "Local strategies for independent living"

The Good Practice Competition is also now open and interested parties are asked to submit their applications online.

Conference website:
http://www.region-limousin.fr/4e-conference-Silver-Economy

Good practice competition application form for the submission of good practices:
http://www.region-limousin.fr/4e-conference-Silver-Economy

Online registration:
https://regionlimousin.wufoo.com/forms/registration-form-4th-silver-economy-conference/

For more information please contact:

Antoine Mathieu: a-mathieu at cr-limousin dot fr