Michigan Universities Join Global Movement for Age-Friendly Education

Michigan Universities Join Global Movement for Age-Friendly Education

As Michigan prepares for rapid growth in its population of older adults, three universities are paving the way for an inclusive educational approach. Wayne State University (WSU), Eastern Michigan University (EMU), and Michigan State University (MSU) have become members of the Age-Friendly University Global Network, joining nearly 80 universities across the United States.

This initiative aims to create educational environments that cater to the needs of older students while promoting positive aging through educational programs, research, and community engagement.

Understanding the Age-Friendly University Initiative

The Age-Friendly University Global Network emerged from efforts by Dublin City University, which established Ten Principles to guide universities in becoming more accommodating to older individuals. These principles are designed to enhance accessibility in education for all ages, addressing key areas such as health and wellness, curriculum development, and community involvement.

Wayne State University’s Leadership

At Wayne State, the Institute of Gerontology leads the charge in making the campus more age-friendly. Dr. Thomas B. Jankowski, interim director at the Institute, emphasizes the growing demographic of older adults, noting, ‘The entire university ought to become age-friendly.’ This includes offering financial incentives, such as a 75% tuition discount for students aged 60 and older.

WSU is not only looking to attract older students but also to support those who may have previously dropped out, initiating programs like the Warrior Way Back, which helps forgiving student debt for readmissions.

Eastern Michigan University: Pioneering Change

EMU has long been an advocate for age-friendly initiatives, becoming the first Michigan university to receive the Age-Friendly University endorsement in 2018. The university hosts workshops that help faculty incorporate age-friendly content into existing courses and promotes initiatives like ‘Disrupt Aging’ to challenge stereotypes surrounding older adults.

Michigan State University’s Outreach Programs

MSU, designated as an Age-Friendly University in 2019, focuses on intergenerational connections through programs like Generations Connect, matching undergraduates with older adults in the community. MSU also engages older adults through its Arts Within Reach program, providing opportunities for cultural participation and lifelong learning.

Dr. Cassandra Barragan from EMU highlights the importance of fostering conversations across generations to combat ageism, stating, ‘Ageism is the one ‘ism’ that is so pervasive in our society.’

A Vision for Inclusive Education

With the collective efforts of WSU, EMU, and MSU, Michigan is taking significant strides toward creating an age-friendly educational landscape. As noted by Dr. Barragan, it’s about more than implementing new programs; ‘It has to become part of the culture.’ The ongoing commitment to this initiative aims to enrich the educational experience for all students, regardless of age, and to promote a more inclusive society.