Vital Aging Network

Life's Journey

We often think of our lives in terms of growth, accomplishments, experiences: abundant living in the fullest sense of the word. We do not think of life as the prelude to death and dying. We often think of our lives in terms of growth, accomplishment

Reflections on My Experience as Chair

My role as chair of the Vital Aging Network came to an end on December 31, 2012. In this article, I want to reflect on some of the Vital Aging Network's accomplishments and challenges. I'm glad to have served, grateful for the contributions of many . .

Thinking About Ageism

Ageism--"ideas, attitudes, beliefs, and practices on the part of individuals that are biased against persons or groups based on their older age"--is ubiquitous in our youth-oriented society. The Vital Aging Network (VAN), in partnership with Saint

Add your comments about Evolve (ALVA)

This is a place for Evolve grads to add their comments and thoughts about the class.

Dignity and Being Older

The observation that "Haiti is choking on receiving" caught my attention when I heard Ruth Anne Olson speak recently. I thought of a comparable paradox that may occur as we get older.

The Mississippi River

Why are Danes said to be the happiest people in the world? Certainly, it’s their culture. But it’s also an emphasis on lifelong learning – a tradition carried forward from the very first Folk School, founded in Denmark in 1844. Nestled on 1.5 park-like acres in Minneapolis overlooking the Mississippi River, the new Danebo Folk School features exquisite natural vistas coupled with urban amenities. This year, we're offering two retreats: "A Taste of Denmark" (August 25 - 31), and "The Mississippi River" (September 15 - 21). Both retreats feature fine arts and crafts, lectures and discussions, storytelling, field trips, nature walks and bike paths, folk dancing and music, and Danish-inspired community meals. Exchange the pressure of modern day life for restoration of your mind, body and spirit at an inexpensive week-long learning vacation on the banks of the Mississippi River. Leave with a fresh perspective, and a sense of new possibilities! To learn more, and to register for one of the retreats, visit the Danebo Folk School website.

A Taste of Denmark

Summer Solstice Dance Celebration!

KAIROS dance™ free performance. Mark your calendar now for a unique experience of intergenerational dance. KAIROS dance™ performances are interactive and include an opportunity for audience members to join in and dance with us. This performance is free and open to the public. Check the KAIROS calendar for additional performances.

Legal and Financial Planning After an Alzheimer's Diagnosis

Are you or is someone you know living with Alzheimer's disease or a related dimentia? This is class is a part of a FREE educational series offered by the Alzheimer's Association that tackles the most common challenges faced by people with dementia and their care partners. For more information, contact the Alzheimer's Association at 952.830.0512. Or visit the organization's website.

Generation Silent: Know More

Join law firm, Maser Amundson, in their annual spring conference for an afternoon of learning and engaging discussion about LGBT aging issues. The conference features a panel of experts, the documentary Gen Silent (sneak peek http://vimeo.com/gensilent/trailer) and an inspiring keynote presentation by Karen D. Thompson. Thompson is an award-winning activist for the legal recognition of same sex partners following the landmark guardianship case of her partner Sharon Kowalski. Cost: $80; 4 CEU's provided for Social Workers. Lunch included. To register, visit http://generationsilent.eventbrite.com. Questions? Contact Roxanne at rcornell@maserlaw.com or call 952.925.4147 or visit the Maser Amundson website.

Get Re-Hired, Re-Wired, Re-Inspired

Resource Day for Plus 50 Job Seekers
Are you Plus 50 and Unemployed or Under-employed? Training and credentials from a community college can help plus 50 adults remain in or return to the workforce. Participate in this free day of inspiration and strategies to get re-hired, re-wired and/or re-inspired. Participants will hear from current Plus 50 students finishing degrees or securing additional credentials for the workplace, learn about social media and other job seeking strategies for adults with life and work experience. In addition to the speakers, the Vital Aging Network is sponsoring a networking and vendor exhibit to help you learn more about getting connected in your community through volunteerism and civic engagement. Download a flyer. Register.