Center for Better Aging

04/09/2026

On March 19, in celebration of Saint Joseph’s Day, the CBA team gathered outside St. Bernard’s Hospital by the statue of St. Joseph.

Together, we honored a truly great man and devoted father, reflecting on his strength, humility, and enduring example. In a quiet gesture of reverence, we also placed flowers and candles at the statue, offering a moment of prayer and gratitude.

04/08/2026

Chicago Senior Services and Top Box Foods are offering fresh produce, protein and pantry staples for older adults 60+!

Here’s where you can pick up a box:

Southeast Regional Center on April 9 at 1:00PM
Chicago Cultural Center on April 16 at 11:00AM
Northeast Regional Center on April 23 at 12:30PM
Southwest Regional Center on April 24 at 1:00PM

🥫 Chicago's Regional Senior Centers are hosting a Food Box Distribution in partnership with Top Box Foods, offering fresh produce, shelf stables, and nutritious protein.

📍 See the flyer for dates and locations near you

04/08/2026

The Chicago Urban League's 5th Annual Black Wellness Fair gave CBA an opportunity to connect with the community.

Our chief of staff, Nyree Modisette, highlighted what our community feels every day: the life expectancy gap between Chicago’s South and North Sides and the impact of social isolation on seniors.

These aren't just statistics. These are our neighbors, our elders, our community.

CBA was created to bridge this gap. Every life on the southside deserves to be full, healthy, and connected.

See more from the event in this recap video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_7PlujMo34

04/07/2026

CBA was glad to participate in the Spring Career & Internship Fair at University of Illinois Chicago.

It was an honor to connect with so many students interested in learning about the Center for Better Aging. The future is bright for professionals supporting older adults and building healthier communities.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by our table, we look forward to staying connected!

04/01/2026

Intern Spotlight: Stephenie Moore

We are incredibly grateful for the time Stephenie spent with us over the past three months as an intern. She brought creativity, energy, and heart to everything she did.

Stephenie had a true gift for designing vibrant, eye-catching flyers that our seniors absolutely loved. Beyond her creativity, she was warm, personable, and patient—always taking the time to answer questions and connect meaningfully with those we serve.

Her passion for the senior community and the broader community was evident in her many thoughtful ideas and contributions. Stephenie was truly a tremendous asset to our team, and she will be deeply missed.

But beyond her impressive contributions, it was her heart that set her apart. In her own words: "I am passionate about the community and want to provide the best service I can for the seniors."

We wish her all the best in her next chapter!

03/31/2026

Southside Sisters Screen: Breast Cancer Navigation Program helps women schedule mammograms with ease.

If you're uninsured, or don't have coverage for a mammogram, you can schedule at St. Bernard Hospital’s new mammography suite through the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program.

If you or someone you know needs help scheduling a mammogram, call the Southside Sisters Screen navigator at 773-488-7824.

03/30/2026

This Doctors’ Day, we’re celebrating the dedicated physicians who make better aging possible.

Today, we’re spotlighting Dr. Daria Brooks Terrell, MD. Get to know her through a few fast facts and the passion she brings to caring for older adults. Her commitment to whole-person care helps older adults feel supported at every step.

Thank you to all the incredible doctors making a difference.

03/27/2026

Center for Better Aging is ensuring Illinois is a great place to live and grow older.

Estrelitta Harmon, Executive Director, and Nyree Essence Orleana Modisette, Chief of Staff, are actively contributing to EngAging Illinois workgroups, a statewide, cross‑sector effort to advance Illinois’ Multisector Plan for Aging.

Through these workgroups, CBA is helping shape strategies that strengthen healthy aging across priority areas such as housing, transportation, community connection, and health equity. Older adults should thrive no matter where they live, their income, background, or abilities.

Learn more about the EngAging Illinois Multisector Plan:
https://ilaging.illinois.gov/forprofessionals/multi-sector-plan-for-aging/engaging-illinois.html

03/26/2026

How much sodium do you really need? About 1 teaspoon per day!

Our dietitian, Meghan Busky, MS, RDN, answers questions to help you build healthier habits around sodium intake this National Nutrition Month.

03/25/2026

Center for Better Aging was featured in NBC Select!

Dr. Kara Watthanasuntorn highlights her “Five M’s” for supporting aging parents:
✔️ Medication organization
✔️ Mobility aids
✔️ Memory tools
✔️ Managing multiple chronic conditions
✔️ Medical alert devices

If you're looking for practical ways to support a loved one, read the article for more of Dr. Kara’s expert guidance: https://www.nbcnews.com/select/shopping/aging-parent-essentials-rcna261308

03/18/2026

March is National Kidney Month

About 1 in 3 adults age 65 and older in the U.S. has chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Kidney function naturally declines with age, and early stages often have no symptoms, which makes regular screening especially important for older adults.

During your next visit, talk to your doctor about checking your kidney health.

03/17/2026

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate the life and legacy of Debra Thompson, founder of See Me! Seniors On The Move, and a cherished partner of CBA.

Debra’s passion for serving seniors, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers began while caring for her own mother. What started as a deeply personal experience grew into a powerful mission. She built meaningful partnerships and created spaces where older adults were recognized as vibrant, active, and essential members of our community.

Her warmth, vision, and dedication continue to inspire us. Debra leaves behind a remarkable legacy, and a call for all of us to carry her work forward.

We invite you to watch this video as we reflect on her impact and honor the life of a true leader.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/nqONYDdB73o