Health & Wellness   

Enjoy the “golden years” with a healthy and strong body. Meet with a certified personal trainer to discover ways to incorporate physical activity and fitness into your daily life. All sessions will be broken into two main components: education and activity. Topics will include functional fitness, cardio training, strength training, flexibility training, balance exercises and core work. Modifications will be provided for all activities. Copies of the workouts will be provided to all participants so exercises can be done at home. Please wear comfortable work out attire and tennis shoes.

All participants must submit the Health Questionnaire and UNL Rec Center Waiver before beginning the workouts. The OLLI office will email electronic forms to fill out online and electronically sign prior to the first class. 

Explore midwifery through the ages—from cave women to the midwives that defied pharaoh to the deep South African American midwives who save black, white and mixed-race babies. Community midwives make a huge difference in maternal and infant mortality and present-day movement for modern day midwives of color changes the lives of their Inuit, tribal and black urban communities and regains their cultures. Midwives caught babies on The Trail of Tears. Learn about the famous midwives in Nebraska, Texas and Oklahoma—especially those in Lincoln, Langston, Edmond and Cherokee, Sioux and the other five civilized tribes midwives.

Explore midwifery through the ages—from cave women to the midwives that defied pharaoh to the deep South African American midwives who save black, white and mixed-race babies. Community midwives make a huge difference in maternal and infant mortality and present-day movement for modern day midwives of color changes the lives of their Inuit, tribal and black urban communities and regains their cultures. Midwives caught babies on The Trail of Tears. Learn about the famous midwives in Nebraska, Texas and Oklahoma—especially those in Lincoln, Langston, Edmond and Cherokee, Sioux and the other five civilized tribes midwives.

Explore another world of food beyond your usual meat and potatoes. You won’t just hear about them; you will be able to sample many of them. From a team of UNL researchers, you will experience the latest on what makes fermented foods and beverages so appealing and why we should be eating more of them. The answer to the question, “How do you make meat and milk from plants?” will be revealed. You’ll be surprised to learn about how mold and other fungi not only spoil some foods but are also delicious. You will hear about how researchers are breeding plants to improve human health. And you will learn how food scientists are developing novel ways to introduce more dietary fiber into our foods for improved health.

Aging Partners is now open at its new Victory Park location on the former Veterans Administration campus. Learn about the many services the agency provides to older adults in Lincoln. Tour the new facilities, including a look at the new fitness, recreation, and dining facilities as well as a foot and health assessment clinic.

Who doesn't love chocolate? Explore the history of chocolate, where it is grown and how it is produced. We will discuss why chocolate is good to eat and good for you. Learn what is bad about chocolate, including child exploitation and the difficulty of addressing child labor. Taste chocolates from several different countries. Please bring a bottle of water to cleanse your palate between samples.

Learn how to navigate the many options surrounding retirement. Explore information on: choosing a retirement community; non- medical home care and home health care; stress-free organization and downsizing for a move; guardian/conservatorship; durable power of attorney; spousal impoverishment/Medicaid; Veteran options; hospice and palliative care truths and myths; planning end of life; senior fraud; planning for retirement; making informed Medicare insurance decisions; senior legislation; and tips for seniors when traveling.

Learn how to navigate the many options surrounding retirement. Explore information on: choosing a retirement community; non- medical home care and home health care; stress-free organization and downsizing for a move; guardian/conservatorship; durable power of attorney; spousal impoverishment/Medicaid; Veteran options; hospice and palliative care truths and myths; planning end of life; senior fraud; planning for retirement; making informed Medicare insurance decisions; senior legislation; and tips for seniors when traveling.

Understand the stages of dementia, potential treatment options, how to care for a loved one, and prepare for what comes next in your journey.

Understand the stages of dementia, potential treatment options, how to care for a loved one, and prepare for what comes next in your journey.

Whether you are seeking strategies for your own self-care or are looking for a positive approach to caring for an older loved one, learn practical tips for embracing life's changes as we age. Focused on five key emotions—gratitude, empathy, forgiveness, love, and awe—known to enhance overall wellbeing, reduce stress, and create meaning, we will explore several easy-to-implement activities designed to harness these powerful emotions. These practices have been designed to help you savor each day, strengthen your relationships, and build personal resilience at every stage. This course is well-suited for caregivers and anyone seeking an easy-to- follow path for ongoing personal growth and wellbeing.

Whether you are seeking strategies for your own self-care or are looking for a positive approach to caring for an older loved one, learn practical tips for embracing life's changes as we age. Focused on five key emotions—gratitude, empathy, forgiveness, love, and awe—known to enhance overall wellbeing, reduce stress, and create meaning, we will explore several easy-to-implement activities designed to harness these powerful emotions. These practices have been designed to help you savor each day, strengthen your relationships, and build personal resilience at every stage. This course is well-suited for caregivers and anyone seeking an easy-to- follow path for ongoing personal growth and wellbeing.

From the comfort of your own home, join in meditation, breath-work, balance, and mindful movements to reconnect your mind, body, and spirit. Class is for all levels, but poses will include a variety of positions requiring students to get on/off the floor. Instructor will provide modifications as needed. Learn some yoga tidbits to use in your future practice both on and off your mat. No equipment is needed but a yoga mat is encouraged. Consult with your physician prior to participating.

Sometimes, we need gentle reminders to slow down and be in the present moment. The harp has been called the perfect instrument for relaxation, as well as helping create wellness in our everyday lives. Learn from a therapeutic harpist as she weaves together powerful stories, practical tips, and plays harp examples, demonstrating music’s role in your life’s journey.

Sometimes, we need gentle reminders to slow down and be in the present moment. The harp has been called the perfect instrument for relaxation, as well as helping create wellness in our everyday lives. Learn from a therapeutic harpist as she weaves together powerful stories, practical tips, and plays harp examples, demonstrating music’s role in your life’s journey.

Research consistently finds that most people aged 50 and older want to stay in their homes and communities as long as possible. The AARP Home Fit session was created to help people stay in the homes they love by turning where they live into a “lifelong home,” suitable and safe for themselves and anyone in their household.

Research consistently finds that most people aged 50 and older want to stay in their homes and communities as long as possible. The AARP Home Fit session was created to help people stay in the homes they love by turning where they live into a “lifelong home,” suitable and safe for themselves and anyone in their household.

Canoeing is a great way to explore local lakes and rivers. If you enjoy being on the water and are an adventurous beginner this class is for you. We will go through both a land-based and paddling progression to gain this new skill. You must provide your own entry fee into the State Recreation Area.

Stand-up Paddle Boarding is one of the fastest- growing paddling sports. If you enjoy being on the water and are an adventurous beginner this class is for you. We will go through a both a land-based and paddling progression to gain this new skill. You must provide your own entry fee into the state recreation area.

Learn about the history, symbolism, and mindfulness practice of walking this singular meandering path leading to a center. Labyrinths are tools for personal, psychological, and spiritual transformation, also thought to enhance right-brain activity. Explore mindfulness and the benefits of the walking meditation that labyrinths invite. We intend to visit one local labyrinth as the weather allows.

We will learn about the disease, changes to expect and how to care for someone on this journey.

We will learn about the disease, changes to expect and how to care for someone on this journey.

Naturally occurring Radon can gather in Nebraska homes. It increases the risk of lung cancer but can be easily mitigated. Learn the best testing practices and how to make informed decisions on mitigating your home or not. We will dispel myths of radon and focus on the clear facts of the invisible gas. Nebraska DHHS helps to inform and protect our citizens.

Naturally occurring Radon can gather in Nebraska homes. It increases the risk of lung cancer but can be easily mitigated. Learn the best testing practices and how to make informed decisions on mitigating your home or not. We will dispel myths of radon and focus on the clear facts of the invisible gas. Nebraska DHHS helps to inform and protect our citizens.

This course is for beginning players with limited or no prior pickleball experience. You will learn the basics of pickleball in small groups of four OLLI participants taught by one or two experienced players (mentors). Emphasis will be on the fun and joy of pickleball. A limited supply of paddles and balls are available to borrow. Purchase pickleball paddles at local sporting goods stores starting around $50. On-line purchase is not recommended! Questions? See contact information for the instructor/facilitator below.

When it comes to caring for loved ones, most families don’t have a plan until a crisis happens. Find out what YOU need to know to provide the best care for your loved one and/or to provide vital information for your children to assist you should that need arise. You will receive the tools to plan for future housing needs, caregiving considerations and financial planning for the cost of healthcare. You can create a comprehensive plan that includes your home, health, finances, and wishes.

When it comes to caring for loved ones, most families don’t have a plan until a crisis happens. Find out what YOU need to know to provide the best care for your loved one and/or to provide vital information for your children to assist you should that need arise. You will receive the tools to plan for future housing needs, caregiving considerations and financial planning for the cost of healthcare. You can create a comprehensive plan that includes your home, health, finances, and wishes.

The following video programs are previously recorded OLLI courses. Learn at your own pace, on your own time and at your convenience. Over 40 hours of programming is available for a single cost of $30. After registration, you will receive an email with a “Join Code” and instructions on how to access programming.

All programming originates from OLLI at UNL.

A Lightspeed Journey Through Science | 4 sessions

Science has discovered (almost) everything about the world we live in and put much of it to work in amazing ways. Yet few understand more than the science headlines, and often these are confusing and contradictory. Gain a coherent view of what it’s all about, how we know what we know, and why it matters to us all.

Fascism: A Warning from History | 4 sessions

The word "fascism" has been increasingly used to describe some modern political movements across the world. Fascism is a loose, incoherent, and conflicted collection of ideologies, myths and hatreds that is difficult to define. To understand the concept, you must understand its history. Explore its origins in Benito Mussolini's Italy, its zenith in Nazi Germany, its continued influence in Cold War-era Spain and other manifestations throughout history. The course concludes with discussions surrounding today’s political movements and assistance in helping to identify and confront any possible fascist threats - before it is too late.

100 Years of Nebraska’s Memorial Stadium…. and What’s Next | 1 session

Memorial Stadium was constructed in only 90 working days in 1923….at a cost of under $500,000. The stadium just recently celebrated its 100th birthday. Through many changes/additions, Memorial Stadium has stood the test of time. Now, more renovations are being planned to move to its next 100 years and to enhance the student and fan experience. Learn about Memorial Stadium, from its humble beginnings to its foreseeable future.

A Conversation with Don Walton – Retired Lincoln Journal Star Journalist | 1 session

Don Walton, a UNL graduate, joined the Lincoln Journal-Star as a college intern and worked at that newspaper for more than 60 years covering the legislature, the governor, and Nebraska politics. Don shares his insights and perspectives of his years as a news reporter in Lincoln.

Performance Nutrition at the UNL Training Table | 1 session

Gain an understanding of what performance nutrition is and how it and hydration can provide a competitive edge in fueling and recovery for elite athletes. Discover how dual x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans, which measure the thickness and strength of bones, can assist with determining body composition change for performance.

America’s Founding Fathers | 6 sessions

Examine the similarities and differences among 10 of the men who have earned the title of “Founding Father.” Who were they and how did their accomplishments set them apart from others who supported the movement for independence?

Black Homesteaders in Nebraska and the Great Plains | 3 sessions

DeWitty, Nebraska, later known as Audacious, was the largest and longest-lasting African American settlement in Nebraska. Settlers began arriving in 1906 attracted by the Kinkaid Act offering 640 acres of free land in the Sandhills. Black Homesteaders endured all the risks and burdens of other homesteaders, in addition to social isolation and finding eligible marriage partners. Black communities created rich cultural and civic lives to establish churches, schools, baseball teams, reading circle, musical groups. Learn the history surrounding this story of Black achievement, struggle, persistence and risk-taking.

Exploring the Amazing Diversity of Nebraska Wetlands | 1 session

The recently completed “Wetlands of Nebraska Outreach and Education” project produced a series of products designed to increase awareness of the importance of wetlands in Nebraska and the people and wildlife that depend on them. Watch excerpts of videos of the wetland produced by the talented team at Platte Basin Timelapse.

The Lincoln, Pershing, and Mural Connection | 2 sessions

Explore the connection between General John J. Pershing, the Pershing Mural, and the city of Lincoln. The mural at the west entrance of the Pershing Center for over a 59-year period is a unique work of ceramics. The auditorium has been demolished, but the mural has been preserved and is planned for installation at Wyuka Park.

Civil Discourse | 3 sessions

One in six Americans stopped speaking to a family member or close friend after the 2016 election. This course highlights the story of Americans with opposing viewpoints, and investigates their differences, concerns and experiences that lie behind each viewpoint. Barriers to engaging in civil discourse conversations and potential solutions are discussed.

Lymphedema: Treatment and Prevention | 1 session

Lymphedema, a chronic condition, affects 3-5 million Americans. Get general information regarding the lymphatic system, the possible causes of lymphatic dysfunction, and a general recognition of early symptoms for proactive treatment and/or prevention of a chronic state.

Learn the lifesaving skills of Adult Hands-Only CPR, Child CPR, Infant CPR and AED use. We will cover mild and severe airway block for adults, children and infants. Skills are taught in a dynamic group environment using the American Heart Association’s research-proven practice, while watching technique. Also learn the use of life-saving tourniquets in controlling serious extremity hemorrhage. This course is information only and does not lead to re-certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. 

Tai Chi is a widely practiced physical and mental exercise form that originated from ancient Chinese martial arts. In class, we will train fundamentals skills comprising the first part of the classic Yang ‘solo routine’ that is the foundation for daily self-practice. All levels of physical capability or Tai Chi experience are welcome. Wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes.

Are you confused about Medicare? Nebraska’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) educates people about Medicare, empowering older adults and people with disabilities to make informed decisions about health care. Become more educated with Medicare so you can identify and report possible Medicare scams, error, or waste. Learn more regarding your health insurance options, benefits, and choices.

Are you confused about Medicare? Nebraska’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) educates people about Medicare, empowering older adults and people with disabilities to make informed decisions about health care. Become more educated with Medicare so you can identify and report possible Medicare scams, error, or waste. Learn more regarding your health insurance options, benefits, and choices.