OLLI plans eight-session Elderquest program

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Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNL plans a free, eight-session, noncredit course that is open to all and features brief introductory presentations, full-length films and guided discussions for the eight Elderquest films. Programs are 1-4 p.m., Fridays Jan. 28 through March 18.

Participants can watch from their homes on computers if they have internet access, or can join in at any of three congregation sites: Nebraska Educational Telecommunications, 1800 N. 33rd St.; UNO, or Grand Lodge at the Preserve, 4400 S. 80th St.

Elderquest: Gender Identity in the New Old Age presents an opportunity to examine aging as it has been portrayed in films in the last 50 years. The elderquest concept provides an imaginative approach for reflecting on the experience of aging -- one that is analytical, mentally stimulating, and appealing to individuals of many ages as they each travel their own life journey.

Elder heroes behave very differently from younger ones: their journeys are often inward rather than outward, backward rather than forward, slow and intentional rather than fast and impetuous. But their actions are just as heroic if not more so, for the stakes are higher, time is short, and the flesh is weak. Victory - and it's far from guaranteed - is full acceptance and then transcendence of the self, an authentication of one's experience and then a willingness to let it go as one helps others to prepare for the ascendancy of the next generation.

Gender Identity in the New Old Age is based on the premise that successful aging depends in large measure on the ability of today's men and women to overcome ageism and forge more mature gender identities. The battle is to overcome the still dominant narrative of aging as decline.

The program is free and open to all. OLLI membership is not required. Participants should register by visiting the OLLI website, http://olli.unl.edu and filling out the online form or mailing the registration form to the address provided. They may also call (402) 472-6265.

The Elderquest provides an opportunity to search for wisdom, connection and integrity later in life, and provides a new and more positive narrative for successful aging.

OLLI provides stimulating, congenial, and varied opportunities designed specifically for lifelong learners 50 years and older. Members can meet interesting people, enjoy stimulating courses, mingle at special events, join in travel and field trips, and enjoy member-only discounts.

The Elderquest program is funded by a grant from Nebraska Humanities Council, OLLI, NET, and Nebraska Cultural Endowment.

More details at: http://go.unl.edu/5og