Stetson Law professor speaks in Korea on worldwide growing elderly population

Professor Roberta Flowers presented in Korea on issues impacting the elderly.

The world’s elderly population is increasing dramatically in size. Stetson University College of Law Professor Roberta Flowers, an expert in ethics and elder law practice, recently traveled to Korea to speak to officials in that country about how the law can be used to protect the elderly.

Professor Flowers presented “Challenges Faced by Elder Law Attorneys” at the International Conference on Social Status Changes of the Aged People and Ageism Reconsidered on June 24. She also spoke at the Seoul National University Law Institute on June 23.

The conference was funded by the National Research Foundation of Korea, and brought together sociologists, professors and lawyers from throughout the world to discuss the issues faced by many nations in light of the aging world population.

Topics included long-term care issues; the limits on human longevity; and stresses faced by elderly immigrants. Flowers discussed how U.S. elder law attorneys work with aging issues.

Although Asian countries have been historically known for protecting and honoring their elders, many conference presenters noted that in recent years the Asian cultures have seen a shift away from this traditional treatment of the elderly.  

Flowers said that Korea and other Asian countries are dedicating significant research to the issues of aging and elderly.

“Korea is facing an unprecedented growth in its elder population. It is trying to develop new ways to care for the elderly,” said Flowers. 

Stetson Law is home to the model elder-friendly Eleazer Courtroom, which Flowers helped spearhead, and the Journal of International Aging, Law & Policy.  

Contact: Brandi Palmer
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