State 35th Annual Conference on Aging to Expand the Concept of Aging

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL -- Aging Oklahomans and geriatric professionals are invited to attend the 35th Annual Oklahoma Conference on Aging, May 18-20 at the Southern Hills Marriott, in Tulsa. Dr. Bill Thomas, international geriatric medicine and eldercare expert, will be featured. Dr. Thomas will challenge and expand the concept of aging for Oklahoma's elders and aging professionals.
“Oklahomans age 60 and over are the faster growing segments of the state’s population and by 2050, one in five Oklahomans will be 60 or over,” said Lance Robertson, director of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services Aging Services Division. “This event will discuss the many issues they face. Older adults, students, advocates, state officials, professionals in the field of aging and corporate representatives are urged to attend.”

Seniors 60 and over are invited to attend May 18 free of charge. Tuesday’s keynote speaker, Dr. Jean Root, is a Tulsa-based geriatrician and a strong advocate for the concept of Optimal Aging, the idea that we make the best of what we experience as we go through life even though it may not be ideal. Dr. Root will also be speaking to professionals at the conference on Thursday. 

Wednesday’s keynote speaker is Dr. Thomas, founder of Eden Alternative, a philosophy and program that de-institutionalized nursing homes in all 50 states and worldwide over the past 20 years. He is also creator of the Green House, a new approach to long term care where nursing homes are torn down and replaced with small, home-like environments where people can live full interactive lives. 

The conference concludes May 20 with the annual Achievements in Aging Awards luncheon where Lifetime Achievement Award winners will be announced. Conference special events include a film festival, photography and poetry contests, health and memory screenings and more. More than 50 vendors will showcase their products and services. In addition, nearly 65 breakout lectures are being offered during the course of the three day conference. For more information about this conference, contact the OKDHS Aging Services Division at (405) 521-2281.

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