Released November 26, 2008

STILLWATER, Okla. – Wanted: Oklahomans who are 100 years old and older.

The Oklahoma Centenarian Project is currently seeking men and women 100 years old and older to participate in a research study on health. This project is funded by the Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station, which funds approximately 40 percent of Oklahoma State University’s research efforts, said Alex Bishop, Department of Human Development and Family Science, gerontology program coordinator, assistant professor and the principal investigator of the study.

A centenarian is best defined as a person who has lived 100 years or longer.

“The primary purpose of this study is to understand how life experience and resources contribute to health among centenarians,” Bishop said. “Results from the study will be used to improve and maintain quality of life among Oklahoma’s oldest citizens.”

Participation will consist of an on-site and oral interview (at home, care facility, etc.). Participants will be asked questions related to their life experiences, use of personal and social resources, individual health and general well-being. Bishop also welcomes and encourages interested family members to attend the interview session.

“It’s difficult to identify these individuals regardless of whether they dwell independently within the community, live with family or reside in a care facility,” Bishop said. “My research team and I hope to find approximately 150 centenarians across the state.”

Educators with the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service are helping Bishop locate these individuals.

Glenn Muske, OCES interim associate dean, assistant director, family and consumer sciences, said this study is a great way of identifying centenarians across the state along with recognizing and honoring them.

“Dr. Bishop sees the study results as strengthening the quality of life for our oldest citizens as well as providing insight into new educational programs and support efforts that communities can offer,” Muske said. “Such outcomes fit directly with the OCES mission.”

To learn more about the Oklahoma Centenarian Project contact Bishop at 405-744-3989 or e-mail at alex.bishop@okstate.edu or contact a local FCS Extension educator.

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http://www2.dasnr.okstate.edu/Members/katie.reim-40okstate.edu/calling-all-oklahoma-centenarians

Contact: Katie Reim, 405-744-6792, katie.reim@okstate.edu