AGS’ 2010 Annual Scientific Meeting Draws Over 2600 With The Latest in Geriatrics Research, Clinical Care, and Education

Nearly 2600 geriatrics healthcare providers, researchers and educators gathered in Orlando, Florida in May for the AGS' 2010 Annual Scientific Meeting. The meeting, which ran from May 12th through the 15th, covered cutting-edge research, the latest in clinical care and geriatrics education, and public policy affecting eldercare.

"It's great to have you here; we have a lot scheduled over the next few days," said 2010 Annual Scientific Meeting Program Committee Chair Bruce R. Troen, MD, welcoming attendees to the meeting at Walt Disney World's Swan and Dolphin Hotel.

Among the many well attended sessions were those examining the effects of anticholinergic medications on the aging brain; the use of exercise therapy to moderate cardiovascular changes and disease in later life; and the future of dementia clinical care and research. Other popular sessions examined such subjects as care coordination, the Medical Home model, and primary care redesign; ways to integrate medical student competencies in geriatrics into the standard medical school curriculum; and medication discontinuation.

The Presidential Reception and this year's annual Evening with Friends (EWF) - which benefits the AGS Foundation for Health in Aging's Student Researcher Fund - were also highlights. So was Assistant Secretary for Aging Kathy Greenlee's Public Policy Lecture. Ms. Greenlee discussed the implications of the new healthcare reform law for geriatrics professionals and their patients. (See related stories about EWF and the Public Policy Lecture)

During the annual meeting, Sharon Brangman, MD, took the helm as AGS' new President, and immediate President Cheryl Phillips, MD, became Chair of the Society's Board of Directors. Keela Herr, PhD, RN, was appointed Secretary of the Society, and James Pacala, MD, to another term as Treasurer. In keeping with the results of the AGS' recent election, Barbara Resnick, PhD, CRNP, became President-Elect. Charles Cefalu, MD, Debra Saliba, MD, and Margaret Wallhagen, PhD, APRN, GNP, joined the Board of Directors, and Sally Brooks, MD, began a second term on the Board.

AGS recognized a number of individuals with research, education and clinical practice awards at the meeting. (See related story)