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Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program Training and Support

Saint Louis University's Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP) offers comprehensive support services that promote the health and well-being of older adults and their caregivers. 

A group of older adults in a Circle of Friends group pose in front of a large patchwork quilt displayed on the table before them.

 

Older Adult Wellness

Cognitive Stimulation Therapy

GWEP's group CST treatment sessions aim to engage older adults experiencing dementia through a series of themed activities, boosting memory, communication and quality of life. 

Participants may join a virtual group or attend in person at the Family Center for Healthy Aging. 

Duration: Twice per week for 14-plus weeks

For more information, email memoryclinic@health.slu.edu

Loneliness and Social Isolation

GWEP addresses loneliness and social isolation by facilitating Circle of Friends, a group designed to help older adults connect around exercise, hobbies and therapeutic writing. 

Participants may join a virtual group or attend in person at the Family Center for Healthy Aging. 

Duration: Once per week for 12 weeks

For more information, email memoryclinic@health.slu.edu

Caregiver Support

Process Groups

Caregiver process groups provide community for individuals and families caring for a loved one with dementia. Participants can ask questions, share ideas and concerns, and exchange valuable resources on how to address potential changes. 

Location: Family Center for Healthy Aging

Caregiver Speaker Series

These monthly webinars feature regionally and nationally recognized professionals working in the field of cognitive aging. Topics include:

  • Signs of dementia
  • Power of attorney
  • Driving and dementia
  • Self-care for caregivers
  • Navigating the health care system

Date: second Monday of each month
Time: noon to 1 p.m. CST
Platform: Zoom

For more information, email memoryclinic@health.slu.edu

@HOME Intervention

The series empowers caregivers to make decisions regarding the daily care and well-being of loved ones experiencing memory loss. 

Duration: six weeks
Location: Family Center for Healthy Aging

For more information, email memoryclinic@health.slu.edu

Interprofessional Education

SLU Mobile Health Clinic

The University's mobile health clinic provides essential clinical services that support the physical, mental and social needs of older adults in the community. The van is staffed by faculty and students studying medicine; social work; medical family therapy; psychology; occupational therapy; physical therapy; and speech, language and hearing sciences. 

Screenings typically take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays. For more information, email memoryclinic@health.slu.edu

Schedule a Screening

Geriatric Case Competition

This annual competition challenges undergraduate and graduate students across disciplines to develop a comprehensive plan of care for an older adult. Teams are paired with a faculty coach and asked to create and present a 25-minute live virtual case to a panel of judges. It's a chance to gain hands-on experience, build teamwork and showcase creativity and problem solving. 

The University of Minnesota coordinates the competition, and SLU's GWEP is one of many GWEP participants from across the nation. 

Students typically register in September and compete in October. The 2026 registration details will be announced at a later date. 

Age-Friendly Clinical Externship

This externship provides early-career health and social service professionals immersive, hands-on clinical experience with older adult patients in medical, mental health and community care settings. Ideal candidates are passionate individuals eager to improve care for older adults and work in a collaborative environment. 

Date: June to August
Duration: 20 hours per week for eight weeks
Stipend: $1,000

For more information, email memoryclinic@health.slu.edu