Aging & Community
Aging Expert Speaker Series: Eco Gerontology with Monica Eastway
Along with our recent focus on the intersection of health and science for World Health Day 2026: Together for Health, Stand with Science, CAC was thrilled to continue our Aging Expert Speaker Series with an immersive, hands-on session led by Monica Eastway.
Faculty, students, and community members were invited to step outside the classroom and into the emerging field of Eco Gerontology. As a pioneer in this space and a proud alumna of UIndy (MS in Gerontology), Monica brought a unique blend of academic rigor and practical healing arts experience to our campus.
A Nature-Connected Approach to Aging
This wasn't your typical lecture. Incorporating the outdoors, participants engaged in what Monica describes as "experiential outdoor mindful reflection". The goal was to demonstrate how the natural environment can be placed at the heart of how we design for and support the aging process: nature-connected approaches can expand the traditional domains of livability and support harmonious longevity.
Key highlights from the session included:
- The Science of Awe: Monica explored how experiencing awe in nature can improve emotional and cognitive health, reducing "mental fatigue" and sharpening focus.
- Green Social Prescribing: We discussed real-world case studies on how nature-based interventions can be integrated into traditional care settings to enhance well-being.
- Practical Tools: Attendees learned hands-on practices for cultivating nature-connected experiences that can be used immediately in community design and aging services.
Bridging Theory and Practice
Monica shared how her mission is to co-create communities that honor ecological wisdom while enhancing life across the entire lifespan. Her background as a Healing Arts Professional — spanning 25 years of experience in mindfulness and sound healing — allowed her to bridge the gap between theoretical research and tangible, person-centered care.
By the end of the afternoon, the group walked away not just with a deeper understanding of sustainable livability, but with a renewed sense of how we can all "unearth the full health potential" of our surroundings.
We are so grateful to Monica for sharing her expertise with her UIndy family. This event reminded us that "Green Time" is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle for older adults, fostering both individual heart health and a stronger sense of community.
The Aging Expert Speaker Series is made possible by the generous support of the Nelle Worthington Fund.
