On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, Community Advisory Panel members Bob Boucek, Sue Boucek, Marianne Downey, Betoel Escobar, Jim Fawcett, Marge Moluf, and Lenny Pitt joined Wendy Rogers, CHART Director and Carrie Wennerdahl, CHART Coordinator to offer their expert feedback on current research studies and the latest updates on the Age Friendly University presence on the CHART website.
The Community Advisory Panel is comprised of older adults who convene to provide input on research questions, pilot test newly developed tools and applications. They are a resource for CHART faculty, staff, and students to conduct research and development activities with older adults and not for them.
During the meeting, the panel members listened to two research presentations and provided the researchers with questions and feedback. The first presentation was “Developing Medicare Information Materials” from the Center for Research and Education on Aging and Technology Enhancement (CREATE) funded by the National Institutes of Health (National Institute on Aging) by Dr. Hye-Soo Lee and Olivia Rojas. The study aim is to help older adults manage their health by developing digital assistant tools that support access to services, healthcare finances, and Medicare.gov resources. The second presentation was led by Dr. Dominika Pindus and Jin Kuang from the Physical Activity and NeuroCognitive Health Laboratory (PNC) entitled, “Sit Less and Move More for Brain Health.” This study focuses on the benefits of physical activity after prolonged sitting for cognitive ability and is also funded by the National Institutes of Health (National Institute on Aging). Finally, the panel members heard from Ava Pappas, the CHART Spring 2025 Intern regarding the progress made integrating our status as an Age-Friendly University into the CHART website.
Throughout the meeting, panel members offered thoughtful questions, shared personal insights, and made recommendations aimed at enhancing the relevance and accessibility of the research. Their contributions helped shape strategies to better reach and support the aging population. The thoughtful feedback provided by CHART panel members is invaluable and deeply appreciated. Their perspectives and input play a crucial role in guiding research efforts and contributing to their success.
