Art and Aging: Tim Carpenter of EngAGE

According to Pew Research Center's population projections, in 2030, all members of the Baby Boom generation will be 65 or older, and 18% of Americans will be at least that age.

I believe that new models of aging and senior life will emerge from this wave, and can't wait to see what is created, which is why I loved stumbling upon The New York Times article, For Healthy Aging, A Late Act in the Footlights. It profiles an innovative organization called EngAGE.

EngAGE is a nonprofit that changes aging, and the way people think about aging, by transforming senior apartment communities into vibrant centers of learning, wellness and creativity. One of its project is the Burbank Senior Artists Colony, a first-of-its-kind senior apartment community with high-end arts amenities and programs (how cool is that?). The NOHO Senior Arts Colony and the Long Beach Senior Arts Colony will open in 2012.

I truly believe that projects like EngAGE are models for happy and healthy senior communities, so I was thrilled when EngAGE's founder, Tim Carpenter, agreed to chat with me for the Arts and Healing Network's Podcast.  In 2008, Tim was named an Ashoka Fellow. In 2011, he received the James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award.  He also serves on the board of the National Center for Creative Aging, and is the host and producer of the EXPERIENCE TALKS radio show.

You can listen to the interview on the Arts and Healing Network's website, through iTunes, or on the player below.

What other innovative aging and senior living projects have you seen?

 P.S. I have three blogging classes coming up in October:

• Oct. 14 (Berkeley, CA): Tea and Cupcakes with Creative Bloggers (Bring a friend!: Buy One/Get One Half Off - when registering for 2 spots)
• Oct. 16-Nov. 6 (Virtual): Juicy Blogging E-Course: The Art & Play of Blogging
• October 27 (Berkeley, CA): Blogging for Writers: Build an Audience for Your Work

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