The Engagement Center for Creative Aging provides innovative community services for families aging in place while enhancing the education of future healthcare professionals.

ECCA mission

Located on the Blacksburg campus of Virginia Tech, the Engagement Center for Creative Aging (ECCA) is home to the Virginia Tech Adult Adult Day Services and two new programs: Engaging Aging & Caregiver Wellness. ECCA is a departmental center for Human Development and Family Science in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Science. Our programs and services are built upon the University’s commitment to Learning, Discovery, and Engagement both locally and globally.

Outreach

  • ECCA hosts in-person and virtual programs and services in the New River Valley related to healthy aging, mild cognitive impairment, caregiver wellness, and Adult Day Services.

Teaching

  • ECCA provides robust learning opportunities for university students, caregivers, and professionals through service learning, workshops, field study, direct care training, study abroad and more.

Research

  • ECCA collaborates with students and faculty across departments, colleges, and universities to engage in innovative interdisciplinary research focusing on interventions and issues related to aging and dementia.

We use person-centered, strengths-based approaches to learning and engagement while leaning on evidence-based practice for holistic care and validation. We are excited to explore and incorporate proven and innovative opportunities for our participants through creative arts, Eden Alternative, integrative health & wellness practice, intergenerational opportunities, and Greencare initiatives.

ADS News

  • A leadership transition at ECCA: Celebrating years of growth

    “A world where aging joyfully and connected in the presence of dementia is possible,” has been Ila Schepisi’s vision since the beginning. Effective Friday, Ila Schepisi, the current director for the Engagement Center for Creative Aging, will be leaving the position with Jo Culligan to be named interim director.   The Engagement Center for Creative Aging…

  • The value of quiet companionship

    On my first day at ECCA, I remember wondering if my interactions were meaningful. If I wasn’t in constant verbal communication with the participants, was I even positively impacting their experience?  I was working in Adult Day Services – wanting to get to know everyone better by talking about favorite foods, bands and dog breeds.…

  • Engaging Aging and Flow Theory

    ECCA is your cheerleader for living an engaged life till the end of your life. Our staff measures participants’ engagement levels to ensure we offer opportunities that support quality of life and enjoyment. Flow theory influences our practice of person-centered care. You can assess your engagement by determining whether you are in the flow state.…