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Session chair: Dr. Mounir Kheirallah, University Hassan II of Casablanca, Casablanca (Morocco)

Individual contributions

Prof. Cristina Nombela -Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid (Spain) online
Neuropsychology in Motion: Exercise, Brain Stimulation and Cognitive Health in Aging

The aging process is accompanied by a decline in cognitive and motor functions, often intensified by frailty and reduced physical activity. In response to this challenge, the project Hago Ejercicio investigates the effects of a combined intervention—physical exercise and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)—on cognitive health in older adults. This research adopts a multimodal approach, integrating neuropsychological evaluation, motor performance analysis, and electrophysiological monitoring through EEG. The intervention is designed to promote neuroplasticity and functional recovery in aging populations. Preliminary results show promising effects on executive functions, attention, and motor coordination. Notably, EEG analyses reveal a significant increase in spectral coherence in participants receiving active tDCS compared to those in the sham group, suggesting enhanced functional connectivity and cortical synchrony. This proposal for CIVIS aims to present the translational potential of combining behavioral and neuromodulatory strategies to support healthy aging. It also highlights the importance of individualized response profiles and the integration of neuroscience into public health and geriatric care. The project reflects a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and the application of neuropsychological research to real-world contexts.

PhD Student. Elvira Andújar Castillo -Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid (Spain)  online
Facilitating Dialogue and Inclusion: Connecting Scientific and Cultural Perspectives on Aging

As moderator of the discussion panel “Aging Across Perspectives: Biological, Cognitive, and Sociocultural Dimensions,” my role will focus on fostering dialogue among the different contributions. Throughout the session, my key function will be to energize the debate, actively managing the questions and dialogue between the attendees and the speakers. I will foster an inclusive and fluid exchange, promoting connections across perspectives (academic, professional, and cultural) while highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in the study of aging. In addition to moderating the panel, I will lead the interactive workshop “Ageing Corner”, a participatory activity designed to complement the academic discussion. In this space, participants from different ages, disciplines, and cultural backgrounds will share experiences and reflections related to aging, inclusion, and dignity. Through dialogue and reflection, the workshop seeks to humanize scientific discourse and to bridge research with lived experience, fostering empathy and intergenerational understanding. By connecting structured academic discussion with open, experience-based dialogue, my contribution aims to create a cohesive and meaningful exchange that reinforces the panel’s central message: understanding aging requires both scientific rigor and social sensitivity.

Collective contribution

Prof. Stephen Ojiambo Wandera, Makerere University, Kampala (Uganda)  online

Prof. El Habib Ben Lahmar, Université Hassan II, Casablanca (Morocco) 

Prof. Cristina Nombela Otero, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (Spain) online 

Prof. Carla Molina Carrillo, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (Spain) online
This discussion panel at the CIVIS meeting offers a multidisciplinary overview of aging, structured around three key perspectives: biological, cognitive, and sociocultural, with a transversal technological contribution. 
The goal is to foster dialogue across disciplines and cultures to better understand both healthy and pathological aging, and to address the societal consequences of existing knowledge gaps. 

From the biological and public health perspective, Prof. Wandera will explore aging trajectories and health inequalities in African contexts, emphasizing the role of environmental and social determinants. 

The cognitive perspective, led by Prof. Nombela, will examine how psychological processes—such as memory, emotion, and reasoning—interact with cultural values and personal histories, influencing vulnerability to misinformation and shaping public understanding of dementia and aging. 

Prof. Ben Lahmar will contribute a technological perspective, discussing how AI tools—such as chatbots and Big Data analytics—can support scientific literacy, counter misinformation, and identify sociocultural trends affecting older populations. 

The panel is complemented by the interactive workshop “Ageing Corner”, led by PhD students, where participants of different ages and backgrounds will share experiences and reflections on aging, inclusion, and dignity.

Questions for the audience

• What are the current gaps in scientific understanding of healthy vs. pathological aging? 
• How does scientific uncertainty contribute to public misconceptions about aging, cognitive decline, and neurodegenerative conditions? 
• What strategies can researchers and healthcare professionals use to communicate complex aging science clearly and responsibly to the public? 
• How can we distinguish evidence-based practices from unverified “anti-aging” claims circulating online and in media? 
• How can interventions—including educational programs and digital tools—promote critical thinking and health literacy regarding aging and care practices? 
• How do misconceptions and stereotypes about aging affect mental health, resilience, and autonomy in older adults? 
• How can AI-based tools (e.g., chatbots, data analytics) help counter misinformation and support personalized, culturally sensitive guidance for older populations? 
• How do cultural norms and social expectations shape the perception and care of older adults in different societies (e.g., Europe vs. Africa)? 
• What are the consequences of misinformation and ageism for caregiving practices and societal attitudes toward older people? 
• How do media and social networks amplify or counteract myths and stereotypes about aging? 
• What lessons can we learn from intercultural comparisons to promote inclusive, respectful, and effective aging practices globally?