Aging Well Workshop Series

Aging well is a high priority for many older people and their families. They want to learn what they need to have a high quality of life when they grow older. NDSU Extension and SDSU Extension are collaborating to offer “Aging Well Workshops” so individuals and families can learn about important topics related to aging. This series includes three workshops offered on January 15, February 19, and March 19. All presentations start at 10 a.m. CST and lasts one hour. These workshops are hosted via Zoom so anyone with technology and internet access can participate. To reach those who do not have technology and internet, organizations are being recruited to host watch parties. Watch party hosts will register with Lacey or Jane. These workshops will be recorded and posted online until June 30, 2025. +

This event is free and open to the public.

Feb. 19 – Decoding Mental Health in Older Age: Spotting the Signs and Supporting Well-Being

Presented by Dakota Witzel, PhD, Assistant Professor – South Dakota State University

Workshop Objectives:

1. Determine who may be at increased risk for mental health conditions in older adulthood.
2. Identify differences between dementia symptoms and mental health.
3. Explore mental health risk reduction and stress management strategies across multiple domains.

Workshop Summary:

Mental health conditions and illness may look different for older adults than we expect. In fact, dementia and mental health illnesses (like depression) share many symptoms, increasing the risk for incorrect diagnosis and treatment. For this reason, this workshop aims to give you tools to spot major differences in these conditions, to reach out to friends and family who may be at higher risk for mental health conditions, and to support yourself and others with evidence-based practices that promote better well-being.

Deadline to Register:  February 18