Eco Gerontology Course Reviews

Beverly Flanagan

5 star rating

“For those who are or are becoming Elders, with an interest in the Science and Spirit of Ecology and Gerontology, who may be seeking greater understanding of both fields, and how they interact, and who may be searching for a means of informed activ...”

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“For those who are or are becoming Elders, with an interest in the Science and Spirit of Ecology and Gerontology, who may be seeking greater understanding of both fields, and how they interact, and who may be searching for a means of informed activism, this course is a wonderful springboard. ”

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Prerequisite for Enrollment:

Completion of the Care Outdoors Certificate is required to enroll in this program.

This ensures all participants share a foundational, experiential understanding of nature-connected care.


The Care Outdoors Certificate

Summer Session

Eco Gerontology Learning Modules

September 19th-November 7th: Slow Living & Learning

  • MODULE 1: What is Eco Gerontology?

  • MODULE 2: Nature Connectedness, Biophilia & Placemaking

  • MODULE 3: Climate Resilience Across Generations

  • MODULE 4 & 5: Livability, Food & Regenerative Economies

  • MODULE 6: Thriving Together: Interdependence & Ecological Wisdom

  • Closing Circle: Sharing Our Ecosophy to Age in Harmony with Nature

Learning Objectives 

"One touch of nature makes the whole world kin." William Shakespeare

This first-ever Eco Gerontology course examines aging through an ecological lens, emphasizing the urgent need to address climate change, population aging, and the interconnected challenges shaping our communities and environment. 

This is a small, seminar-style course with a focus on interactive discussion, reflection, and applied learning. Modules are delivered sequentially to allow deep engagement with each topic.

You will explore nature connected placemaking, deep ecology, eco philosophy, bioregionalism, climate resilience, regenerative livability and economies.


Through interactive live sessions, self-paced learning, and applied projects, you will gain the knowledge and skills to apply an Eco Gerontology perspective and lead innovative solutions for a rapidly changing world.


By the end of this course, 

you will:

  • Understand the Foundations of Gerontology through an Ecological Lens


  • Explore how Climate Change Impacts Aging Across the Globe


  • Apply Principles of Bioregionalism, Reciprocity, and Interdependence to Aging Services


  • Envision Aging-Friendly, Livable Communities Rooted in Care for People and Nature

Course Format

"If we surrendered to earth's intelligence we could rise up rooted, like trees." -Rainer Maria Rilke


Live Seminar Sessions for interactive learning, reflection, and discussion

Scheduled Sessions additional days/times may be added to accommodate everyone in our small cohort.

Live Seminar Sessions 

will occur on SATURDAYS 

10:00 am PT / 1:00 pm ET on the following dates:

  • Saturday, September 19th

  • Saturday, September 26th

  • Saturday, October 3rd

  • Saturday, October 17th

  • Saturday, October 24th

  • Saturday, October 31st

  • Saturday, November 7th

  • Self-Paced Learning between sessions, including readings, short films, and guided place-based practices and reflections.


  • Foundational Certificate in Eco Gerontology for those who complete all course components

🌱 Eco Gerontology Outcomes

  • Foundational Certificate in Eco Gerontology

  • Confidence to Lead with Ecological Awareness in a Rapidly Changing World

  • A Deeper Understanding of Aging as a Relational, and Place-Based Experience

Join the First Wave of Eco Gerontology Leaders

Aging In Harmony with Nature

ENROLL TODAY!

Facilitator

The Eco Gerontologist

I am a recognized pioneer, educator, and nature-connected changemaker in the emerging field of Eco Gerontology, dedicated to advancing how we understand and support aging through a nature-connected lens. I empower individuals and communities to unearth the full health potential of their surroundings. As part of growing this field, I am the founder of the Care Outdoors program, which integrates outdoor healing environments and nature-based practices to enhance wellbeing across all ages. Care Outdoors exemplifies how an eco gerontology approach can transform aging services, community design, and wellness programming. My expertise lies in creating supportive, accessible, and multifunctional outdoor healing places that enhance quality of life for people of all ages. I hold a Master of Science in Gerontology from the University of Indianapolis and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology & Philosophy from the University of Toledo. Additionally, I bring over 25 years of experience as a Healing Arts Professional, specializing in massage, sound healing, mindfulness, laughercise, play, breath awareness, and aromatherapy. My research focuses on growing Eco Gerontology through Green Care, Nature Connectedness, AWE, and Nature-Inspired, Community-Based Housing. Through my work, I have gained extensive knowledge and practical experience in designing, developing, and delivering customized wellness programs that showcase cutting-edge research and innovative approaches to care and living. I am passionate about nature-inspired practices and their vital role in promoting the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities. Working closely with health professionals, carers, and communities, I strive to create fun and engaging outdoor opportunities that benefit both people and the planet. My mission is to deliver ethical and professional care grounded in evidence-based practices, using a person-centered and reciprocal shared-care approach. ~ Connecting All Ages to the Goodness of Our Shared Home ~

Monica Eastway

Instructor

The Eco Gerontologist

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