Feb. 20, 11A
Presenter: Jessica R. Petok, PhD, St. Olaf College professor of psychology
Fee: $3
By 2030, adults over the age of 65 will make up almost 20% of the total population of the United States and 12% of the world. Such worldwide “graying” is either a burden or an opportunity, depending on the extent to which we promote healthy and independent aging. This talk will highlight a series of studies that show patterns of preserved cognitive function in healthy older adults as well as current research on lifestyle factors that can improve cognitive function. Prof. Petok will also introduce her own research plans, and show how her work might ultimately contribute a first step toward fostering independent living and successful aging.