Highlighting Intergenerational Partnerships

“People are living longer, and populations are aging worldwide. The demand for professionals with expertise in aging is growing rapidly. Careers in Aging Week (CIAW) is observed during the first full week of March by businesses, clinics, coalitions, organizations, universities, colleges, and other parties across the world. The goal of CIAW is to bring greater awareness and visibility to the wide-ranging career opportunities in the field of aging.” – Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education

To celebrate “Careers in Aging” week, we are highlighting our intergenerational partnerships and internships.  We want to raise awareness about the diverse opportunities for careers in the field of aging.

Here are some of our key intergenerational partnerships that help attract new talent to the field of aging services:

Metropolitan State University of Denver – Eaton hosts interns from the undergraduate Integrative Healthcare Program and graduate Healthcare Management Program.  The students from the Integrative Healthcare program offer wellness education, wellness activities and wellness coaching.  The Healthcare Management interns complete a rotation shadowing each department at Eaton which culminates in a project to benefit the community.

University of Denver – Eaton hosts interns from the graduate Healthcare Research and Leadership as well as undergraduate students from the electrical and computer engineering program.  The students in the Healthcare Research and Leadership program assist Eaton with developing tools to research wellness and housing plus services.  The electrical and computer engineering students work on developing companion robot technologies, utilizing Eaton as a pilot site for their innovation.

PIMA Medical Institute – Eaton hosts interns from the occupational therapy programs.  The students spend one week on-site and host a variety of activities for residents, while utilizing their occupational therapy skills.  Some past activities have included a fun carnival and a yummy truffle making class.

Regis University– Eaton hosts students from Regis University’s pharmacy program.  The students get the chance to interact with residents and gain real-life experience in working with older adults.

Alameda IB Program – Eaton hosts students from Alameda High School’s International Baccalaureate program.  The students get the opportunity to shadow different staff members to learn about potential career paths in healthcare.

Boys & Girls Club – Eaton partners with the Westwood and Jefferson County Boys & Girls club for a variety of projects.  The members of the boys & girls club help support Eaton’s fundraiser by providing colorful artwork, create holiday cards for residents and enjoy coming on-site for activities with residents.