Cassandra
Barragan,
Ph.D., MSW
Assistant Professor School of Social Work & Director, Aging Studies Program
Eastern Michigan University
Cassandra Barragan is an Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work and the Director of the Aging Studies Program and serves as co-chair of the Age-Friendly University (AFU) Steering Committee. Her 20 years of professional experience prior to coming to EMU guides much of her research to better understand older adults and their social networks. Her research identifying opportunities for older adults to build social relationships has been presented both nationally and internationally and is a strong advocate for older adults in the community.
Presenting at the Nexus Summit:
In order to address the social, biological and psychological risks to older adults aging in place, a multidisciplinary approach to support successful aging is needed. Furthermore, students in various disciplinary programs can develop knowledge and skills to address the needs of older adults that cross professional silos. This presentation will describe an interprofessional initiative that aimed to: (1) support older adults and caregivers to access resources to enhance health and well-being and (2) cultivate an understanding among professional students about the skills and knowledge health…