Michigan State University’s AgeAlive Education & Research Forum and Awards Ceremony brought together researchers, community leaders, and aging advocates Thursday, March 26, 2026, to discuss ways to improve the lives of older adults through research, technology, and community engagement. The event is part of MSU’s efforts as a designated Age-Friendly University.
Clare Luz, Ph.D., founder and director of MSU AgeAlive and IMPART Alliance, welcomed the crowd, emphasizing the forum’s mission.
“We’re here to follow in the footsteps of AARP founder Percy Andrus, who said, ‘Old age is not a defeat, but a victory; not a punishment, but a privilege,’” Luz said.
The forum featured presentations on a wide range of aging-related topics, from fall prevention to assistive technology. Tamara Reid Bush, Ph.D., professor of mechanical engineering and associate dean for Inclusive Excellence at MSU, highlighted her research addressing pressure injuries among patients seated for long periods.
“One of the first patients I saw had a pressure injury for many months,” Bush said. “It was shocking to see the depth of the wound and how much it impacted their life. We asked ourselves, ‘How can we prevent these injuries?’”
Her team developed SitSense, a multi-segmented chair that automatically shifts a patient’s posture to reduce pressure and improve circulation.
“This chair moves automatically every 20 to 30 minutes, reducing risk for pressure injuries and minimizing nurse injuries,” Bush explained. She noted that the chair is being refined in collaboration with hospitals and is expected to enter the market within a year.
Another MSU faculty presenter focused on mobility research. Rajiv Ranganathan, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Kinesiology, discussed innovations in brain-computer interfaces.
“You’re really reporting directly from the brain and using that to control an assistive device,” Ranganathan said. “This is particularly useful for individuals who have very little movement capability.”
Sara Arena, P.T., M.S., D.Sc.P.T., professor and director of physical therapy at Oakland University, approached mobility from another perspective during her discussion on fall prevention, highlighting the state’s centralized resource hub.
“Many Michiganders lacked access to information about fall prevention programs,” Arena said. “Now, through 2-1-1, older adults, caregivers, and healthcare providers can find local resources to prevent falls.”
The forum also recognized outstanding contributions in aging research and community engagement. This year, AgeAlive hosted its Annual Awards Ceremony in conjunction with the forum.
Tamara Reid Bush, Ph.D., and Peter Berg, Ph.D., professor in the MSU School of Human Resources and Labor Relations, each received the Research in Aging Award for their contributions to advancing aging research.
“Successful aging at work is not solely an individual responsibility,” Berg said. “It is deeply contingent on organizational environments and choices.”
Allison Stawara, MSU alum and farm manager at Partridge Creek Farm in Ishpeming, Michigan, received the Intergenerational Award for her work creating a three-acre farm that provides fresh, affordable food and fosters connections across generations.
“It’s a great honor to represent both Michigan State and Partridge Creek Farm,” Stawara said. “I encourage everyone to visit our farm stand this summer.”
Maureen McCabe-Power, a community member, received the Legacy Award in recognition of her contributions to the community.
The MSU AgeAlive forum highlighted the importance of research, technology, and community partnerships in supporting individuals as they age. From innovative seating solutions to intergenerational community initiatives, the event showcased practical approaches to enhancing quality of life across the aging continuum.
To learn more about the forum or watch each recorded session, visit 2026 MSU AgeAlive Education & Research Forum – AgeAlive.