End Stage’ offered by the AgingME (GWEP) Social Work Field Unit 

March 13, 2020 Faculty News
The Palliative Players of Hospice Volunteers of Waldo County presented the improv theater production “End Stage”  on March 10, 2020 at the Buchanan Alumni House. Through unscripted role playing, the performers acted out possible end of life scenarios and conversations in families challenged by serious illness. The performances explored decisions and wishes that arise in a health care crisis, and offered suggestions for more effective conversations about end of life. Over 50 community members, master’s degree students and professionals were in attendance.

The free public event was part of the University of Maine’s AgingME (GWEP) Lunch and Learn series. The Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (or GWEP) is sponsored by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This 5-year initiative seeks to improve health outcomes for older adults. The University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine (UNE COM), working in close collaboration with the University of Maine and multiple statewide partners, was one of 48 organizations nationally to receive this funding. Maine’s GWEP – known as AgingME – aims to create a more age-friendly health system by better preparing an age-capable workforce, transforming primary care practices and engaging and empowering older adults.

 

This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number U1QHP33080-01-00, Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program, Year One-total award amount $749,999.00. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by, HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.