Introducing the Emerging Field of Eco Gerontology

Gerontology:

The Study of the Biological, Psychological, Sociological, Spiritual

and Environmental Aspects of Human Development and Aging

Across the Lifespan; Birth–Death

What is the Difference between Geriatrics and Gerontology?

Geriatrics focuses on the medical care and treatment of older adults, while Gerontology

encompasses the study of aging, including the biological, psychological, social, spiritual, and environmental aspects, to Promote Wellbeing, Quality of Life and Harmonious Longevity ~

Eco Gerontology puts the Ecosystem back in Home.

'Eco' comes from the Ancient Greek word okios, meaning 'Home'.

Home holistically includes our entire bioregion—land, plants, towns, watersheds, and beyond, including all living beings—

birds, bees, trees, etc.

We now know the Aging Process is conditioned by genetic factors, variations in personal development and Above All,

the interaction between individuals and their environments—

Our Built Environment [houses, schools, towns, roadways, parks...]

Our Social Environment [human-human and human-Nature Connectedness]

And The Natural Environment

Eco Gerontology in the NEWS:

Enjoy Nature for a Healthier, Longer Life

Lessons from Blue Zones

Dan Buettner discovered that people living in what he coined the

Blue Zones live longer and healthier lives not because of pills, supplements, or extreme exercise,

but because they reside in environments that:

Encourage moving naturally every 20 minutes
Foster living in towns built for humans and Nature, not just cars
Promote walking, walking, walking
Support activities like kneading bread and grinding corn
Facilitate living, working, and playing outdoors, surrounded by healthy ecosystems and biodiversity, generating high levels of nature connectedness
Nurture growing gardens and eating locally grown food

As Buettner says, "they live rewardingly inconvenient lives."

Additionally, the healthiest humans on Earth live with a sense of purpose and meaning, what the Japanese call Ikigai.

They live not just for hobbies and activities but for a purpose greater than themselves, with a sense of responsibility for their family, community, the natural environment, and future generations.

Eco Gerontology prioritizes the natural environment in our efforts to

co-create supportive environments for all ages.

Numerous research studies underscore how nature-rich spaces, including biodiverse habitats, green and blue spaces like gardens, small farms, lakes, rivers, beaches, parks, forests and meadows, Contribute to:

Healthy Longevity
Higher Quality of Life
Brain Health
Reduced Risk of Chronic Health Conditions

However, the Natural Environment is often overlooked in

Aging-Friendly policies, programs and projects.

As an Eco Gerontologist, Educator, and Consultant,

I advocate for and help individuals and communities Grow supportive environments that promote:

- Access to Nature

- Nutrient-rich food

- Security

- Biodiversity

- Stability

- Connection

- Equal opportunities to develop skills and competence

- Collaboration with a shared purpose

- Capacity to maintain societal contributions

- Reciprocal-Shared Care: caring in, for, and with Nature

Mission:

Connect All Ages to the Goodness of Our Shared Home

Nature IS Our #1 Care Ally

and we can learn how to become Nature's #1 Care Ally

Nurturing Harmonious Longevity

for Current and Future Generations

Learn more about Eco Gerontology and Harmonious Longevity on the

Dr. Cooley Show!

Aging in a Climate-Changing World

Eco Gerontology emphasizes the importance of healthy natural environments in supporting sustainable livability and advocates for nature-inspired and community-based solutions to our most pressing social and environmental challenges.

Empowering individuals and communities to harness the full health potential of their surroundings, I am an eco gerontologist dedicated to enhancing quality of life for people of all ages, current and future generations.

I work with individuals, health professionals, carers, committees, municipalities and communities to co-create and utilize supportive, accessible, and multifunctional outdoor spaces.

With a focus on nature-inspired education, I am dedicated to providing fun and engaging educational opportunities that benefit both

people and planet.

Be Inspired to share care outdoors! Listen to my conversation with

Dr. Mara Karpel & Your Golden Years, recorded live in May 5th, 2024.

Check out my interview with Pam Moreno in the Monterey Weekly.

Care Outdoors Continuing Education

One of the most abundant ways to Grow Harmonious Longevity is with

Lifelong Learning!

Explore why Green Social Prescribing is gaining traction in Europe and why all ages need daily Human-Nature Connection.

Care Outdoors empowers you to optimize the therapeutic use of outdoor spaces every day!

Be equipped to foster Nature-Inspired Wellness Programs,

Nature-Connected Communities and Experiences for All Ages,

including people living with dementia, disability, and mobility impairments.

What You'll Gain:

Foster purpose, joy, and connectedness, reduce loneliness, isolation and prevent burnout
Weekly engagement with video content, lectures, and interactive discussions via a user-friendly online platform for flexible, accessible learning.
Hands-on experiential learning practices to apply concepts directly.
Simple Yet Profound Mindful Ways to Improve Your Wellbeing

Grow Wellbeing With Nature

Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in the demands of everyday life?

Whether you’re caring for others, managing work stress, or simply seeking more peace, Care Outdoors offers you a path back to balance—through the Power of the Nature Experience.

Why Care Outdoors?

In today's world, many people struggle with constant stress, fatigue, and a sense of disconnection.

If you're feeling burned out or overwhelmed, you're not alone.

Care Outdoors provides simple, accessible tools to help you reconnect with Nature, recharge your energy, and restore your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing.

Participants often report feeling calmer, more focused, and better able to manage their responsibilities after just a few lessons.

Imagine the relief of finding more peace and joy in your daily life, even when things get busy.

Does This Sound Familiar?

Caregivers & Healthcare Workers: Feeling worn out from taking care of others but not yourself? Learn how Nature can help you reduce stress, avoid burnout, and bring renewed energy to your caregiving.
Professionals & Leaders: Struggling with work pressure or decision fatigue? Discover how to integrate Nature into your workday to feel more balanced and focused.
Individuals & Families: Seeking more connection with loved ones? Learn how nature can nurture your relationships and help you feel more present and engaged.
Older Adults & All Ages: Looking for ways to stay healthy and active? Reconnect with Nature in ways that support healthy aging and bring joy to your everyday life.

What You’ll Gain

Relief from Stress: Simple practices that fit into your day to help calm your mind and body.
A Sense of Connection: Restore your connection to yourself, others, and the natural world around you.
Renewed Energy: Physical, mental, and emotional benefits that help you feel more vibrant and focused.

A New Cohort Begins on November 22

Last day to enroll, November 28th

If you prefer learning alongside others, you can join our next group starting in November. You’ll connect with peers on the same journey, sharing insights and supporting one another along the way.