HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY

AGE-FRIENDLY
UNIVERSITY

-Hofstra President Susan Poser

Hofstra University is honored to announce its designation as an Age-Friendly University (AFU), effective July 29, 2025. As the first university on Long Island to earn this distinction, Hofstra joins a distinguished global network of 130 Age-Friendly Universities across five continents and 36 U.S. states.

Read the News Story
Illustration of 10 principles of an Age-friendly University

About the Age Friendly University (AFU) Designation

Upcoming Events

Aging Café

TUE., APRIL 14
4 – 6:25 p.m.
Hofstra USA

Aging Café invites community members to sip, connect, and explore practical strategies for healthy aging. Through interactive stations and expert-led conversations, attendees learn about brain health, fall prevention, dementia risk reduction, safe driving, aging in place, and more.

Learn More About National Public Health Week at Hofstra

Building Brain Healthy Habits Starting Today

WED., APRIL 15
1 – 2:25 p.m.
Hofstra USA

Discover researched-based habits that support brain health at every age. This in-depth program explores practical strategies for healthy eating, physical activity, quality sleep, and cognitive engagement, and helps you create an action plan to build lasting brain-healthy routines.

Register to Attend

Photos from September 9, 2025 Age-Friendly University Event

Age Friendly Designation Ceremony | Hofstra University

    • Blumenfeld, H. K., Schroeder, S. R., Bobb, S. C., Freeman, M. R., & Marian, V. (2016). Auditory word recognition across the lifespan: Links between linguistic and nonlinguistic inhibitory control in bilinguals and monolinguals. Linguistic approaches to bilingualism, 6(1-2), 119–146. https://doi.org/10.1075/lab.14030.blu
    • Schroeder, S. R., & Marian, V. (2012). A Bilingual Advantage for Episodic Memory in Older Adults. Journal of cognitive psychology (Hove, England), 24(5), 591–601. https://doi.org/10.1080/20445911.2012.669367
    • Shuminsky, P. & Davidow, J.H. (in review). Perceived naturalness and acoustic characteristics of habitual versus clear speech for individuals with hearing loss. Manuscript submitted for review, Journal of Speech, Language and Hearing Research.
    • Shuminsky, P., Martin, B.A., Behrman, A., Montano, J.J. (in revision). Acoustic changes following clear speech training. Manuscript in revision for publication, Journal of Acoustical Society of America.
    • Shuminsky, P., “Acoustic Changes Following Clear Speech Intervention” (2021). CUNY Academic Works. https://academicworks.cuny.edu/gc_etds/4507
    • Shuminsky, P. (2024, October). Can Training in Clear Speech be Used to Improve Everyday Communication for Individuals with Hearing Loss? Faculty Research Day, Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY.
    • Shuminsky, P., Martin, B.A., Behrman, A., Montano, J.J., (2021, November). Acoustic Changes Following Clear Speech Intervention. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Annual Convention, Washington, DC.
    • Shuminsky, P. (2019, May). Current Trends and Issues in Auditory Rehabilitation and Auditory Training. New York Speech, Language and Hearing Association Conference, Albany, NY.
    • Park, S., Fraser, M., Weber, L. M., Meeker, C., Bishop, L., Geller, D., Stein, J., & Ciocarlie, M. (2020). User-Driven Functional Movement Training With a Wearable Hand Robot After Stroke. IEEE transactions on neural systems and rehabilitation engineering : a publication of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society, 28(10), 2265–2275. https://doi.org/10.1109/TNSRE.2020.3021691
    • Hsu, Y. P., & Pingale, V. (2022). Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Individuals With Low Vision: Life Goes On. Topics in geriatric rehabilitation, 38(3), 240–244. https://doi.org/10.1097/TGR.0000000000000369 

    • Elkis-Abuhoff, D. L., & Gaydos, M. (2018). Medical Art Therapy Research Moves Forward: A Review of Clay Manipulation With Parkinson’s Disease. Art Therapy, 35(2), 68–76. https://doi.org/10.1080/07421656.2018.1483162
    • Lee, H. & Park, S. (2022). A Qualitative Case Study of Reminiscence-Based Art Therapy for Alleviating Depression in an Older Adult with Mild Dementia. Korean Journal of Art Therapy, 29(3), 497–522.
    • Lim, H. & Park, S. (2021). Research Trends Analysis for Adult Stress in Art Therapy: A Focus on Articles Published in Korean Academic Journals. Korean Journal of Art Therapy, 28(1), 249–270.
    • Park, S. (2023). Art for Mental Health: Myths and Facts about Art Therapy. [Workshop for Older Adults]. Silver Academy in Arumdaun Presbyterian Church.
    • Laghezza, A., & Johnson, K. (Manuscript in progress). Caring with Confidence: Reducing the Burden of Incontinence in Dementia.
    • Laghezza, A., Evangelista, E., & DiZazzo-Miller, R. (in press). Mental health and older adults. In M. A. Pizzi (Ed.), Psychopathology, Function and Occupation: A Guide to Assessment, Intervention and Mental Health Promotion. Routledge.
    • Hsu, Y. P., & Walters, M. (2024). Understanding the Impact of COVID-19 Lockdowns on Older Adults’ Routines and Well-being: 3 Case Reports. Gerontology & geriatric medicine, 10, 23337214241298326. https://doi.org/10.1177/23337214241298326
    • Karaye, I., Marium, A., Bhurosy, T., Yamousa, I., & Kyriacou, C. (November 7, 2022). Trends in Alzheimer’s Disease Mortality in the United States: 1999–2020: Widening Disparities by Race and Ethnicity. American Public Health Association Annual Meeting, Boston, MA.

    • Kyriacou, C., Coffield, E., Kausar, K., Gompath, S., & Hirsch, J. (manuscript in progress). Prevalence of College Caregivers in the United States.
    • Kyriacou, C. & Dolgin, J. WiseWays: Support for Older Adults. Proposal to develop a student-led, elder law, elder care, elder advocacy traveling clinic in Nassau County libraries. Submitted July 30, 2025.
    • Kyriacou, C. & Kuehn, J. (April 24, 2025). Age-Friendly Universities: The Hub for Thriving Age-Friendly Ecosystems. American Society on Aging Annual Conference, Orlando, FL.
    • Kyriacou, C., Markowitz, W., & Kuehn, J. (manuscript in progress). Bridging Generations and Campus-Community Connections Through a Lifelong Lecture Series.
    • Kyriacou, C., & Rustici, C. (November 19, 2025). Cultivating Future Advocates: Training College Students to Become Long-Term Care Ombudsmen. Gerontological Society of America Annual Conference, Boston, MA.
    • Kyriacou, C., & Rustici, C. (2025). Cultivating Future Advocates: Training College Students to Become Long-Term Care Ombudsmen. Innovation in Aging, 9(2).https://academic.oup.com/innovateage/article/9/Supplement_2/igaf122.1157/8412163

    • Karaye, I. M., & Kyriacou, C. M. (2024). HIV and other sexually transmitted infections in older adults. The lancet. Healthy longevity, 5(1), e2–e3. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2666-7568(23)00256-8
    • Bosley, A. (2020). The rainbow in the silver tsunami: Caring for LGBTQ+ elders. [Workshop]. Nassau County Mental Health Association’s Virtual Community Trainings.
    • Bosley, A. (2019). The rainbow in the silver tsunami: Caring for LGBTQ+ elders. Workshop. Nassau County’s 10th Annual Conference on Co-Occurring Disorders.

    • States, R. A., Dewan, B., Lynam, P., Mensah, N., & Pottorf, O. (2025). Group exercise for balance in people with Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Physiotherapy theory and practice, 41(4), 872–889. https://doi.org/10.1080/09593985.2024.2374063
    • States, Rebecca & Salem, Y. & Kyriacou, C.. (2025). Building University-based Wellness & Exercise Programs for Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease. Parkinsonism & Related Disorders. 134. 107573. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.parkreldis.2025.107573
    • States, R. A., Salem, Y., & Kyriacou, C. Wellness and Exercise for Parkinson’s Disease at Hofstra University (WE-PD at HU). 7/1/2024–6/30/2025. Parkinson’s Foundation Community Grant.
    • Laghezza, A. Occupational Therapy and Aging in Place: Review of Evidence and Up-to-Date Trends. Short Course. Gerontology Series, NYS Occupational Therapy Association, 2025.
    • Laghezza, A. Occupational Therapy and Aging in Place: Review of Evidence and Up-to-Date Trends. Tennessee State Occupational Therapy Association, 2025.
    • Laghezza, A. (August 2025). Community presentation for caregivers with dementia: Creating a safer home. Sid Jacobson JCC, East Hills, NY.

Lifelong Learning Lecture Series

The Lifelong Learning Lecture Series, hosted by the School of Health Sciences, is dedicated to fostering curiosity, community engagement, and intergenerational exchange through the pursuit of knowledge. Held weekly on Mondays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., this series features enriching presentations by distinguished faculty, administrators, staff, students, and members of our partner retiree organization – PEIR (Personal Enrichment in Retirement). Our mission is to create an inclusive and dynamic learning environment that promotes health, well-being, and intellectual growth for learners of all ages.

Hofstra University Continuing Education

At Hofstra, learning never stops, whether you’re a curious child discovering new passions, a teen deepening your skills, a high school student exploring future pathways, a professional advancing your career, an individual preparing for a new one, a company investing in its team, or a lifelong learner rediscovering the joy of education. From Hofstra Summer Camps to Hofstra EDGE, learning moves with you through every stage of life and work.

Ombudsman Training

Voice of the Vulnerable: Advocacy in Long-Term Care Settings (HPR 179CC / DSST 150D), introduces students to the vital role of the Ombudsman in protecting the rights of individuals living in long-term care facilities. Students will explore advocacy, mediation, and community education strategies that support resident dignity, safety, and quality of life. Through real-world perspectives and applied learning, students will gain skills in resolving complaints, navigating systems, and promoting equity in long-term care settings.

Wellness & Exercise for Parkinson’s

Voice of the Vulnerable: Advocacy in Long-Term Care Settings (HPR 179CC / DSST 150D), introduces students to the vital role of the Ombudsman in protecting the rights of individuals living in long-term care facilities. Students will explore advocacy, mediation, and community education strategies that support resident dignity, safety, and quality of life. Through real-world perspectives and applied learning, students will gain skills in resolving complaints, navigating systems, and promoting equity in long-term care settings.

Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic

The Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic offers diagnostic and treatment services to children and adults for a variety of communication disorders. All clinical services are supervised by professional speech-language pathologists and audiologists who hold certification by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association.

Annual Caregiver Summit

An annual Caregiver Summit is held at Hofstra University every fall during National Caregivers Month.   The annual summit brings together policymakers, providers, advocates, educators, and caregivers to discuss the impact and challenges of caregiving. At the 3rd Annual Caregiver Summit held November 19, 2025, Rose Golden of the New York State Office for the Aging presented new data showing that over 4 million New Yorkers serve as caregivers, contributing billions in unpaid labor, despite many not identifying themselves as such, which complicates outreach and support. The summit, organized by partners including Hofstra’s School of Health Sciences, the Nassau County Age-Friendly Center of Excellence, Northwell Aging Institute, and AARP Long Island, highlighted the rapidly expanding and increasingly younger caregiving population, the emotional and systemic challenges caregivers face, and the urgent need for stronger policy and community support. Through keynote remarks, a documentary screening, and panel discussions, speakers emphasized caregiving as a critical yet often invisible pillar of the healthcare system, underscoring the importance of collaboration, awareness, and integrated support networks to better serve caregivers across all settings.

Dementia Risk Reduction Collaborative

The Dementia Risk Collaborative is a partnership between Hofstra University and the Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter focused on advancing evidence-based strategies to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Bringing together cross-sector leaders, the Collaborative promotes lifestyle approaches—such as healthy diet, physical activity, cognitive engagement, and social connection—to support brain health across the lifespan and strengthen community partnerships across Long Island.

National Public Health Week

Hofstra University’s School of Health Sciences is proud to offer events in celebration of the American Public Health Association’s observation of National Public Health Week.

Hofstra Cultural Center

The Hofstra Cultural Center (HCC) is an internationally renowned organization that includes a conference and symposium component, performance arts, and the publication of the proceedings of its conferences and symposia. The goal of the HCC is to augment the offerings of the academic departments of the University by developing educational programs related to the cultural and interdisciplinary experience of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and scholars. Cultural Center is free for community members as noted on the AFU application.

Hofstra Museum of Art

Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (https://www.aam-us.org/), the Hofstra University Museum of Art initiates and facilitates rich and varied cultural and artistic explorations in an atmosphere that promotes the open exchange of ideas. Discounts for Seniors as noted on the AFU application.

Hofstra Theater and Performing Arts

Hofstra is home to six theaters, which are suited to the hundreds of diverse scholarly and cultural events and performances Hofstra hosts throughout the year. See directions to all theaters. For ticket sales and venue information, visit https://hofstra.universitytickets.com/ or call 516-463-6644. Discounts for Seniors as noted on the AFU application.

glen cove, age-friendly community

Age-Friendly Glen Cove

Established in 2017 through the Glen Cove Senior Center, the Age-Friendly program strives to encourage policy and planning that enhance our City’s empathy and support of our aging population and in doing so, improves the quality of life for all generations. It is our goal to foster a community where people can continue to experience joy and fulfillment as they grow up and grow older!

northwell health

Northwell Health

Northwell Health, New York State’s largest health system, has been officially certified as an Age-Friendly Employer for 2025-2027 by the Age-Friendly Institute, a national organization dedicated to promoting age-inclusive workforce practices.

New York State Office for the Aging

New York State Office for the Aging

The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) works with a network of 59 Area Agencies on Aging and over 1,200 community partners to provide New York’s 4.8 million older adults with a range of community-based services and supports.

NYSOFA’s overall goal is to help older adults age in their community and avoid higher levels of care.

AARP Long Island

AARP Long Island

The Summer Academy provides a structured, high-impact experience that strengthens college readiness while exposing students to healthcare environments and behavioral health careers.

Alzheimer's Association

Alzheimer’s Association

From Nassau to Suffolk County, the Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter is here to help.

We provide education and support, advocate for the needs and rights of those facing dementia, and advance critical research to develop new treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

Connect with the Long Island Chapter.

CABS Health Network

CABS Health Network

Since 2020, CABS Health Network (CABSHN) is the market brand for CABS Home Attendants Service Inc., a licensed home care service agency established in 1979 to provide home care services to elderly and disabled Brooklyn residents, New York.

gurwin healthcare system

Gurwin Healthcare System

Gurwin is a mission-based, non-profit healthcare organization dedicated to serving the needs of our residents. Our team is united by a desire to make a difference in the lives of older adults, and is imbued with a commitment to treat every resident as if they are their very own family member.

parker jewish institute

Parker Jewish Institute

Recognizing that many older adults can avoid institutionalization if they have the right support services, Parker developed an extensive network of community health care programs and services, including: home health care, and community/inpatient hospice, medical house calls and Willing Hearts, Helpful Hands.

Today’s Parker is well positioned to continue its leadership in patient care, teaching and research, on the wings of compassion, excellence and innovation.

the bristal assisted living

The Bristal Assisted Living

Our team members strive to empower each resident, by honoring their stories, supporting their independence, and providing opportunities for lifelong learning and active aging. With thoughtfully designed accommodations across Long Island, Manhattan, Westchester County, and New Jersey, we invite residents to experience a lifestyle enriched by choice, warmth, and community.

Centerlight Healthcare PACE

Centerlight Healthcare PACE

The Summer Academy provides a structured, high-impact experience that strengthens college readiness while exposing students to healthcare environments and behavioral health careers.

Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook University

Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook University

The mission of The Long Island State Veterans Home is to provide high quality and compassionate health care services for veterans and their families without regard to race, gender, religion, disability, age or national origin. We will continually strive to advance our methods and standards of care through our teaching and research affiliation with Stony Brook University.

Harmony Healthcare Long Island

Harmony Healthcare Long Island

Harmony Healthcare Long Island (HHLI) is bringing a new kind of health services to the communities that need it most. We provide affordable, evidenced-based, quality health services to everyone in the neighborhood, regardless of insurance status or the ability to pay.

Health in Aging

Health in Aging Foundation

HealthinAging.org is a trusted source for up-to-date information and advice on health and aging.

Through the Health in Aging Foundation, we advance a commitment to helping older adults and caregivers maintain health, independence, and quality of life. HealthinAging.org features education materials for older adults and caregivers, as well as information on finding a geriatrics healthcare professional in your area.

jcc

Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center

Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center promotes Jewish identity. We provide a comprehensive program based on Jewish values, traditions, heritage and culture and are committed to enriching the lives of all the individuals and families in our community.

hempstead housing authority

Hempstead Housing Authority

Hempstead Housing Authority provides affordable housing in a safe and secure living environment for low- and moderate-income residents. The Housing Choice Voucher program (Section 8) provides housing assistance to families in privately owned housing.

Maureen P. Alderman

Adjunct Instructor of Population Health

Want to connect?

Eric Adolph

Director of Operations, Continuing Education

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Andrea A. Ault-Brutus

Senior Assistant Dean of Communication and Advancement and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Population Health, School of Health Sciences

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Barbara A. Callahan

Senior Associate Dean, Hofstra Northwell School of Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies and Instructor of Graduate Nursing

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Isma H. Chaudhry

Adjunct Associate Professor of Population Health, School of Health Sciences

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Edward Coffield

Associate Professor of Population Health, School of Health Sciences

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Athelene A. Collins

Executive Director, Hofstra Cultural Center

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Susan M. DeMetropolis

Associate Professor of Speech, Language, Hearing Sciences, School of Health Sciences

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Lisa M. DeTora

Professor of Writing Studies and Rhetoric, Chair, HCLAS

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Janet L. Dolgin

The Jack and Freda Dicker Distinguished Professor in Health Care Law and Professor of Law, Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University

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Akilah N. Folami

Professor of Law, Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University

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Michaela Fraser

Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences

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Jacquelyn Hulse

Marketing and Operations Manager, Continuing Education

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Yu-Pin Hsu

OT Program Director and Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences

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Laurie Johnson

Professor Emerita of Counseling and Mental Health Professions, School of Health Sciences

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Jacklyn T. Kuehn

Senior Associate Dean, School of Health Sciences and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Writing Studies and Rhetoric

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Corinne Kyriacou

Vice Dean for Administration and Associate Professor of Population Health, School of Health Sciences

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Alexandra E. Laghezza

Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Sciences

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Lawrence Levy

Associate Vice President and Executive Dean, The National Center for Suburban Studies at Hofstra University

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Elyse A. Miller

Director of Field Placement and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Counseling and Mental Health Professions, School of Health Sciences

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Andrea Nerlich

Professor of Counseling and Mental Health Professions, Chair, School of Health Sciences

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Sarah A. Novak

Associate Professor of Psychology, HCLAS

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Debora A. Riccardi

Assistant Professor of Graduate Nursing, Hofstra Northwell School of Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies

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Salvador Rojas-Murillo

Associate Professor of Engineering, Fred DeMatteis School of Engineering and Applied Science

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Craig M. Rustici

The Dr. Mervin Livingston Schloss Distinguished Professor for the Study of Disabilities and Professor of English, HCLAS

Want to connect?

Holly J. Seirup

Professor of Counseling and Mental Health Professions, School of Health Sciences; Professor of Educational Leadership, School of Education

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Rebecca States

Professor of Physical Therapy, School of Health Sciences

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Kirby Veevers

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Population Health, School of Health Sciences

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Kathleen A. Wallace

Professor of Philosophy, HCLAS

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Chanda Washington

Associate to the President for Government and Community Relations, Office of the President

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For More Information

Dr. Corinne Kyriacou
Vice Dean and Associate Professor, School of Health Sciences
corinne.kyriacou@hofstra.edu

Dr. Jackie Kuehn
Senior Associate Dean and Adjunct Assistant Professor
School of Health Sciences
jacklyn.kuehn@hofstra.edu

afugn.org

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