Applied learning and research on healthful aging
The Center for Excellence in Aging and Health (CEAH) was conceived in 2017 and launched in 2018 with the hire of Founding Director Tom Meuser, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and gerontologist with New England roots. CEAH is a university-wide center focused on engaging faculty and students in applied learning and research on healthful aging.
CEAH is offering virtual learning and support during the COVID-19 crisis. View recorded programs
Truly healthy aging is about having an engaged, meaningful daily life, as much as it is about taking a medication to treat a specific illness. The best research on human aging places the person first. A “whole person” approach recognizes that personal strengths, desires, and capabilities are just as important to good health as specific behaviors, symptoms, or diagnoses. CEAH is committed to looking beyond the deficit model to meet, know, and celebrate the lives and legacies of aging Mainers.
One way we do this through the UNE Legacy Scholars Program. Adults aged 55 years and older volunteer to support our faculty and students in conducting research on aging that’s inclusive and focused on making a difference. Another way is through the UNE Living Tapestries Project (LTP). Adults aged 55 years and older sit for a life-story interview focused on personal wisdom and important life lessons. Audio segments from LTP interviews are posted online following a StoryCorps model. These segments educate students about aging, and full interview transcripts become data for teaching and conducting qualitative research. Learn more and register to participate in LTP
CEAH collaborates with nearby senior living communities in support of student learning, life enrichment for residents, and promotion of applied research projects. A new satellite office will open in Fall 2021 in the Larrabee Village community of Westbrook Housing.
UNE is an Age-Friendly University — one of the first in the U.S. — and another CEAH goal is to promote vibrant, inter-generational communities on our campuses. Some of the best learning about aging happens when younger students and older scholars come together in shared study and personal exchange. Legacy Scholars help make this kind of learning happen. All are welcome to join this free program.
For more information on the Center, read our blog on healthful aging.
Cross-disciplinary
CEAH priorities for research are defined by seven pillars — Identities, Functions, Transitions, Generations, Practices, Economics, and Environments. The Center consults with faculty, professional staff, and students to pursue meaningful applied projects linking these pillars.
Participate
If you are age 55 or older, you can be a UNE Legacy Scholar. Through the program, you volunteer to support our faculty and students in conducting research on aging that’s inclusive and focused on making a difference. The scholars program isn't the only way you can get involved, contact us to learn about studies presently seeking volunteers or attend an event.
