This symposium seeks to illuminate how the synthesis of the arts, humanities and social sciences and medicine can reframe perspectives on care of the elderly in ways that can challenge, stimulate and nurture fresh thinking, dialogue and connections. Moreover, it will explore how they can play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges and rewards of caring for the elderly and of caregiver and health professional burnout and wellbeing.

Paintings will also be on display in the UNO Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center  August 26 to September 29. These paintings were created by people living with dementia as part of the Opening Minds through Art (OMA) program delivered at the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. The art program is aimed at promoting residents social engagement, autonomy, and dignity through the experience of creative self-expression. Elders at Rose Blumkin Jewish Home were paired with a trained student volunteer from the University of Nebraska Omaha who provided guidance during the art-making process.

The event features geriatrician Dr. Kenneth Rockwood and film-maker Hannah Minzloff. Dr. Rockwood is a professor of medicine at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, who was last year’s winner of the Ryman Prize for the world’s best discovery, development, advance or achievement that enhances quality of life for older people. Hannah Minzloff is a Canadian filmmaker. Her critically acclaimed film, “Dementia, Dad and Me” will be broadcast nationwide in Canada this summer.

The event is free, but registration is required.