Idaho State University to host annual Thomas Geriatric Symposium in Pocatello on Sept. 27

POCATELLO – The Idaho State University Kasiska Division of Health Sciences will host the Thomas Geriatric Symposium at the Pocatello Chubbuck Senior Activity Center on Sept. 27 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

The center is located at 427 N. Sixth Street, and a lunch will be held following the symposium, provided by the Senior Center. The symposium has the theme “Staying Healthy, Staying Fit” and is a unique event with the health and well-being of local older adults in mind.

The ISU Thomas Geriatric Symposium will provide interactive presentations on topics of interest for 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, rather than holding it on campus again this year, is one way we are working to improve access to health care and health information for the Pocatello and Chubbuck older adult community,” said Chris Owens, associate vice president for health sciences at ISU, and chair for the symposium planning committee.

“Additionally,” he added, “holding the symposium in both Pocatello and in the Treasure Valley Boise Senior Center brings valuable information for older adults and their loved ones and caregivers to multiple areas across the state.”

The symposium will showcase the more than 30 health sciences programs available at ISU.

Organizers expect increased participation for this year’s symposium.  Presentation topics include:

• Grins and Grub – As people age, their bodies change including their oral environment and nutritional needs. It is important for overall health for people to have the resources and products that can help combat common oral complications such as dry mouth and cavities and nutritional needs such as getting enough protein, calcium and other nutrients. Grins and Grub will be presented by Leciel Bono, assistant professor of dental hygiene and Cynthia Blanton, professor of dietetics.

• Mind Games and Myths – This talk investigates changes in the brain as people grow older, and how this impacts the ways that they think and behave. This presentation will cover basic neuroanatomy and normal-versus-abnormal brain aging, with particular attention paid to psychological factors that are linked to healthy aging. The talk will be presented Anna C. McCarrey, ISU assistant professor of psychology.

• 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.

It will be presented by Matt Shutes, Pocatello Police Department community services corporal.

For more information about the Idaho State University Thomas Geriatric Symposium, visit isu.edu/healthconf.