Seniors Gain Empowerment through Innovative Program

Oy Vey VR recently announced the launch of Empowerment University for Seniors (Empower U) at Berman Commons in Dunwoody. Empower U is an innovative and transformative 12-week program designed to enrich the lives of the residents from both assisted living and memory care communities. This groundbreaking initiative aims to inspire a sense of purpose, engagement, and accomplishment among participants through a dynamic array of academic and personal enrichment courses.

At its core, Empower U seeks to combat isolation and foster a vibrant sense of community. “By providing thoughtfully designed classes that blend intellectual stimulation with emotional connection, the program supports seniors in rekindling their curiosity and engaging their senses while building meaningful relationships,” said Stuart Steiner, founder of Oy Vey VR. “Empower U celebrates the innate potential of every senior to learn, explore, and create — regardless of one’s cognitive challenges.”

Empower U’s curriculum includes diverse topics such as science, modern culture, world travel, and significant historical events, all tailored to the needs and interests of seniors in long-term care. Classes integrate cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality and custom tablets alongside hands-on sensory materials to deliver a fully immersive and engaging experience. These tools enable residents to connect with the world — both past and present — while fostering new discoveries and moments of joy.

Upon completing the 12-week program, participants receive a framed Certificate of Completion as part of their journey toward earning an honorary degree in Senior Studies. This culminating event underscores Empower U’s mission to recognize and celebrate the achievements of its participants, reinforcing their value and dignity.

According to Dr. Mirie Manzour, Volunteer Services Manager for Jewish HomeLife Communities, “Empowerment University is an exciting opportunity for the residents of Berman Commons to engage in life-long learning. Seeing the memory care residents engaged in a classroom setting sets the stage for what is possible for those living with cognitive decline. During the Empower U classes, the atmosphere shifts into one that focuses on sparking inquisitiveness by offering thought-provoking learning experiences.

“For the assisted living residents, these classes debunk myths regarding learning new concepts, as we know from the science of neuroplasticity that seniors can learn new competences at any age. Lifelong learning is beneficial for improving mental sharpness, emotional wellbeing and overall life satisfaction. As the adage goes, ‘you don’t stop learning because you grow old, you grow old because you stop learning.’ Empowerment University emphasizes the importance of seeking insight and knowledge to stay mentally stimulated and active. Residents at Berman Commons are back in the classroom setting, raising their hands, posing questions, and learning from one another. We see them walking away with a sense of pride.”

Empower U officially launched on Jan. 30. For more information about Empowerment University for Seniors or to schedule a visit/demo, please contact Stuart Steiner at 404-569-7254 or stuart@oyveyVR.org.

Empowerment University’s curriculum includes diverse topics such as science, modern culture, world travel, and significant historical events.

Weekly Course Outline

Class 1: Morty’s Flashback Series – The Apollo 11 Moon Landing
Class 2: Morty’s Animal Kingdom – The Origin of Man’s Best Friend – Dogs
Class 3: Morty’s MasterClass Series – Let’s Remember The Beatles
Class 4: Morty’s Virtual Scuba Adventure – A Deep Dive with Dolphins
Class 5: Morty’s MasterClass Series – The History of our National Parks – Yosemite
Class 6: Morty’s Flashback Series – The History of Music of the 50s and the Birth of Rock & Roll with Graduation Ceremony