Human Evolution vs. Aging A Inclusive Whole-Person Wellness Program for Elders at Howard University in Washington D. C. - November 2005
WEL, World Elder Land, the D. C. Office of Aging and The School of Social Work Multidisciplinary Gerontology Center at Howard University teamed up and gathered more than 28 Social Workers for a four hour seminar on Human Evolution vs Aging: An Inclusive Whole-Person Wellness Program For Elders.
Dr. Clarence Brown welcomed the participants and introduced the speaker of this meaningful program, Kathy Ward.
What is wellness? How to facilitate the evolution of our bodies, minds and spirits, Awareness of the emotional wellness and sprituality of our elders ... and more interesting topics where discussed and presented to the participants.
The seminar was very interactive. Everyone share meaningful views like this one; "the whole concept that we are one and the oneness in us all is an infinite coupling of things that are needed to make this life meaningful."
How to utilize the "Journal For Better Life" as an individual tool to facilitate intellectual and vocational aspects of wellness; social inclusion and creativity, emotional wellness, better nutrition, color and nature to nurture a better quality of life.
Developing a "person-centered wellness program" was a very interesting topic of discussion among everyone. The speaker Kathy Ward, is also a Recreation Therapy Consultant, so her views about "Social Inclusion and Creativity: The Value of Therapeutic Recreation for Elders: Molecular Biology, Activity of the Brain and Aging was explained as one of the most meaningful ways to better our minds and health.
We also discussed the biochemestry of happiness, that nourishes our cells, renews our spirit, and enlivens our natural instinct toward balance and wellness. And part of a book written by Robert Muller "Most of All They Taugh Me Happiness" describing the effects of happiness and laughter as a potent stimulant to health, cure for ulcers and other stomach ailments, etc..." Dr. Muller's comments were well received by all.
One of the participants commented: "Ms. Ward reminded me of the need to try to understand the ’Äúwhole’Äù being. This is definitely crucial in social work practice, especially when working with at-risk populations."
Participants working on a "Listening For A Better Life" exercise.
Decide to ... live and nurture a better quality of life for everyone, utilizing resources available to us everyone; human resources; body, mind, spirit, creativity, heartfelt work, love and PEACE!