UCLA
Age-Friendly University

Principle 1

To encourage the participation of older adults in all the core activities of the University, including educational and research programs.

1. UCLA Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI at UCLA)

  • What it is: A non-credit educational institute for adults aged 50+ offering lectures, discussion groups, creative workshops, language classes, museum tours, film screenings, and more—many led by UCLA faculty and local experts.
  • Benefits: Participants not only learn but also engage in leadership and volunteer roles within UCLA’s academic community.
  • Locations: Courses take place both at the new Gayley Center in Westwood and in Sherman Oaks.

2. PLATO Society of Los Angeles (formerly at UCLA Extension)

  • What it is: A peer-led lifelong learning community focusing on discussion-based study groups in subjects like art, science, history, literature, and more.
  • Local relevance: Based near UCLA (in Westwood), this long-standing institute offers around 70+ small discussion groups annually, all designed and led by participating older adults.

3. UCLA Research Participation for Older Adults (Research Studies Opportunities)

  • CTSI Clinical Trials & Studies: UCLA invites adults—including older adults—to participate in medical and health research, with studies searchable via the CTSI platform.
  • Aging and Brain Connectome (AABC): A current research project recruiting volunteers across Los Angeles to explore aging, cognition, and lifestyle factors.
  • Memory & Aging Studies: Ongoing projects like the “UCLA Memory Study” target older adults (ages 55–100) for interventions in memory impairment.

4. UCLA Center for Health Improvement of Minority Elderly (CHIME)

  • Opportunities: Facilitates older adult involvement in pilot research projects, receipt of mentorship, and active participation in community-academic partnerships.
  • Engagement: Older adults can play roles in research design, recruitment, and dissemination of results, often collaborating directly with UCLA researchers.

5. UCLA Longevity Center (Semel Institute)

  • Programs Offered: Offers the Senior Scholars Program, memory/cognitive training workshops, and webinars—all part of its mission to promote lifelong learning and research engagement.