In 2025, Aging, Design & Healing continued to develop the interdisciplinary framework established in previous years while placing a stronger emphasis on empathy, health, and cultural awareness in design. The course explored aging through multiple perspectives, including public health, healthcare practices, therapy, and inclusive design, encouraging students to think critically about how design can support the wellbeing and dignity of older adults.

Through seminars, discussions, and interactive learning activities, students examined topics such as ageism, implicit bias, and the social challenges that aging communities face. Guest speakers from diverse fields, including design, healthcare, and art therapy, contributed to the learning experience, offering students new perspectives on how creative practice can intersect with healing and care. The course environment emphasized dialogue, reflection, and hands-on experimentation, allowing students to step outside their comfort zones and rethink common assumptions about aging. By approaching design through empathy and cultural understanding, students were encouraged to consider how thoughtful design can create more inclusive and supportive environments for older adults.