A successful year, 2024, is coming to an end, marking the conclusion of the first funding period of our Collaborative Research Center (CRC) 1436. To celebrate this special occasion, a Christmas party organized by the central project Z03 was held on November 27, 2024, in the new lecture hall on the campus of the University Hospital. This festive event served two purposes: informing the participants about the current study results of the central project and providing an opportunity for the study team to express their gratitude for the participants’ invaluable support.
The Christmas celebration officially began with a welcoming address by Prof. Emrah Düzel, spokesperson for the CRC 1436, followed by Prof. Anne Maass, who delivered a presentation highlighting the our study’s findings on healthy cognitive aging and the “Super Ager” cohort, along with a preview of the upcoming funding period. Following the presentation, there was ample time for questions, sparking lively discussions between the participants and the two study leaders.
As a special surprise, the study team organized an awards ceremony to honor some extraordinary participants. Awards were presented to the oldest and youngest participants, those who contributed to the highest number of subprojects within the CRC, and individuals who traveled the longest distances to the study center. Additionally, two participants were recognized for their contributions to TV and online documentaries.
Afterward, everyone was invited to a relaxed gathering in the foyer, where refreshments were provided. Participants engaged in lively exchanges with one another and the study team. This event was a wonderful conclusion to a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon, underscoring the importance of not only mental and physical fitness but also social connections in fostering healthy aging.