Thomas Geriatric Symposium set for Sept. 27 in Treasure Valley

BOISE - The Idaho State University Kasiska Division of Health Sciences will host the Thomas Geriatric Symposium at the Dick Eardley Boise Senior Center, 690 Robbins Road, Sept. 27 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Lunch will be provided.

The symposium will provide interactive presentations on topics of interest to older adults in areas such as mental wellness, oral health, nutrition and fraud protection. There will be games, demonstrations and prize giveaways as well. Flu shots will be administered by student pharmacists along with pneumonia vaccination screening. 

 “Taking the symposium to the senior center, is one way we are working to improve access to health care and health information for the Treasure Valley older adult community,” says Chris Owens, associate vice president for health sciences at ISU, and chair for the symposium planning committee. 

The symposium will also showcase the over 30 health sciences programs available at Idaho State University.  

Presentation topics include:

Grins and Grub

As we age, our bodies change including our oral environment and nutritional needs. Resources and products that can help combat common oral complications such as dry mouth/caries (cavities) and nutritional needs such as getting enough protein, calcium, and other nutrients are important for overall health. Join us for a discussion forum on how we can work together on Staying Healthy, Staying Fit! 

Mind Games and Myths

This talk investigates changes in the brain as we grow older, and how this impacts the ways that we think and behave. We will cover basic neuroanatomy and normal versus abnormal brain aging, with particular attention paid to psychological factors that are linked to healthy aging. 

Fraud Squad

Every day, someone else becomes a victim of an internet scam. Criminals use the internet to collect data and personal information that can be exploited for dangerous and harmful purposes. This presentation will include tips on the safe usage of the internet and how to recognize scams. 

For more information about the Idaho State University Thomas Geriatric Symposium, call (208) 282-3372 or visit isu.edu/healthconf.

###