Aging & Community
Celebrating Older Americans Month
Every May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the nation in observing Older Americans Month. It is a time to celebrate the contributions of older adults, recognize emerging trends in aging, and reaffirm our commitment to helping adults thrive as they age.
The theme for 2026 is Champion Your Health, focusing on prevention, wellness, and the power of personal responsibility. At the University of Indianapolis Center for Aging & Community (CAC), we do more than just talk about healthy aging - we provide the tools to make it a reality.
Lifelong Learning
Healthy aging isn't just about the body; it's also about the mind. Our Aging Expert Speaker Series, supported by the Nelle Worthington Fund, brings diverse voices to our community to share research and innovations in the field of aging. CAC has hosted a range of experts covering topics such as:
- The Importance of Laughter
- Supporting LGBTQ+ Caregivers
- Eco Gerontology
Beyond providing useful and interesting information, these sessions offer a platform for older adults to stay curious, engage with cutting-edge research, and advocate for their own wellness. By fostering a culture of continuous growth, we empower our community to make informed decisions that support independence at every stage of life.
“Learning about Eco Gerontology from a UIndy alumna was interesting, and I will be incorporating some of these new practices in my daily life.”
— Aging Expert Speaker Series Attendee
Falling is Not Inevitable
A cornerstone of "Championing Your Health" is maintaining independence through injury prevention. Many believe that falls are just a part of getting older, but we’re here to tell you: falls are largely preventable. CAC hosts 2 programs, Tai Chi for Balance and Stepping On Workshops, to educate the community on fall prevention..
Tai Chi for Balance
Research shows that regular Tai Chi can reduce the risk of falls by up to 50%. By focusing on the "Triple Threat" of fall prevention—strength, flexibility, and mindfulness—you are investing in your long-term autonomy. Our Tai Chi classes are designed to be:
- Accessible: No floor work; options for standing or seated practice.
- Gentle: Movements designed specifically for joint health.
- Community-focused: A supportive environment of peers.
"Between the exercises I learned in Stepping On, and the awareness of shifting my weight in Tai Chi, I was able to avoid falling on black ice this winter."
— Tai Chi Participant
Stepping On Workshop
In partnership with the Indiana Department of Health, we host this evidence-based program that boasts a 31% reduction in falls. Our course includes vital information on:
- Home Safety: Identifying and fixing hazards.
- Expert Reviews: Insights on how vision and medications impact balance.
- Physical Strength: Targeted exercises to keep you moving with confidence.
“Keep up the good work - I hope this program continues. We all know there is going to be no shortage of older people.”
— Stepping On Participant
The Next Generation
Beyond supporting older adults in our community, we are looking toward the future by investing in the students who will become the next generation of aging-service professionals.
Our presence on UIndy’s campus allows us to bridge the gap between generations. By involving students in our programs, we provide them with first-hand experience that challenges stereotypes and highlights the vibrancy of the aging community. This isn't just about fulfilling a credit hour; it's about shifting the landscape of healthcare and social services.
By engaging students, we ensure that as the population of older adults grows, there is a dedicated, passionate, and skilled workforce ready to support them.
“CAC gave me both hands-on learning experience and background knowledge, which helped build a strong foundation for working with older adults. This is a passion I didn’t know I had, thanks to CAC!” — UIndy Student Intern
This May, let’s do more than just observe - let’s Champion Your Health together.
