Optimal Aging Institute

The mission of the Optimal Aging Institute

Goal 1: Support, educate and engage older adults by providing on-campus and community resources
Goal 2: Promote collaboration among BGSU faculty and students with community services that serve older adults and promote optimal aging
Goal 3: Conduct research to identify and promote key factors contributing to successful aging, including physical health, cognitive function, emotional well-being and social engagement

What is optimal aging?

Optimal aging goes beyond good health and longevity. It deals with the capacity to function across the eight dimensions of health, wellness and resiliency – physical, emotional, intellectual, social, occupational, environmental, spiritual and financial. By focusing on these aspects, individuals can enhance their quality of life, maintain independence and increase longevity while reducing the risk of age-related diseases. Optimal aging is about thriving rather than just surviving in later years.