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The Cedars in Portland, Maine, a facility that offers a full continuum of senior living options, has a long history as a clinical site for UNE’s medical and health students. Susan Wehry, M.D., chief of geriatrics in the Division of Geriatrics, recently gave a talk, titled “Engaging Aging,” at the annual meeting of The Cedars board of trustees.

The main message? “Our challenge and opportunity throughout life is to neither defy nor deny aging, but rather to engage it and acknowledge that there are changes both welcome and unwelcome,” Wehry explained.

The talk was attended by board members, senior management and residents of The Cedars.

“I provided messages about healthy aging and about the importance of purpose and meaning in your life,” Wehry said. “No one is going to give you that purpose, it's really a matter of rediscovering it yourself.”

Wehry says the talk really resonated with the audience, inspiring several residents to take specific action. One resident interested in climate change decided to start an environmental activist group at the facility. Another group of residents plan to start a writer’s club.

“I think it actually provided some pathways to action for older adults to become more empowered.”

Prior to her presentation, Wehry sat down for a question and answer session that is now posted on .

The Cedars, a non-profit senior community founded in 1929, offers independent living, assisted living, rehabilitation and skilled nursing care.