University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) faculty, staff and community members came together on Thursday, March 1st to enjoy a special presentation from the UWM Partners for Health, “The Age of Love: Understanding Love and Relationships as We Age.” The program featured a presentation from former Wisconsin governor Martin Schreiber about his book, “My Two Elaines,” a screening of the film “The Age of Love,” and a discussion of the topic of love and aging led by Colleen Galambos from the UWM Helen Bader School of Social Welfare. Both Schreiber and “The Age of Love” producer Steven Loring participated in the discussion, and responded to questions from the audience.

Schreiber’s book “My Two Elaines – Learning, Coping and Surviving as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver” chronicles his journey and lessons learned as a caregiver to his wife, Elaine, after her Alzheimer’s diagnosis. In addition to shedding light on better ways to respond to the disease, Schreiber wanted to honor Elaine’s courage in facing Alzheimer’s, something he didn’t fully appreciate until he uncovered journals that she began to keep after her diagnosis. He knew he needed to share both of their stories.

Steven Loring’s film “The Age of Love” follows the humorous and poignant adventures of thirty seniors in Rochester, New York who sign up for a first-of-its-kind speed dating event exclusively for 70- to 90-year-olds. From anxious anticipation through the dates that follow, it’s an unexpected tale of intrepid seniors who lay their hearts on the line, and discover how dreams and desires change—or don’t change—from first love to the far reaches of life.

UWM Partners for Health was represented at the event by the three deans of the partner schools – Ron Cisler of the College of Health Sciences, Kim Litwack of the College of Nursing, and Ron Perez of the Joseph J. Zilber School of Public Health.

In addition to UWM Partners for Health, the program was also sponsored by the UWM Helen Bader School of Social Welfare, Stowell Associates Care-Managed Home Care, the UWM Alumni Association, Heritage Senior Living, Educators Credit Union, and Ovation Communities.