Geriatrics at Its Best: A week in Nice

Authors: Serdar Ozkok1, Santiago Cotobal Rodeles2, Rui Buzaco3

Affiliations:

1 Istanbul University, Istanbul Medical Faculty, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Istanbul, Türkiye;

2 University Hospital Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain;

3 Family Unit, Clinica CUF Estádio José de Alvalade, Lisbon, Portugal

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Since 1995, the European Academy for Medicine of Ageing (EAMA) courses have pursued highly valuable objectives, including strengthening the knowledge and skills of junior faculty members and future teachers of geriatrics, aligning the attitudes and goals of future opinion leaders across Europe within a shared vision, and fostering a strong professional network among clinicians caring for older people.

In line with these aims, the first module of the 16th EAMA Course took place in Nice, France, from 26 to 30 January 2026. This unique experience proved to be one of the most enriching, inspiring, and memorable professional experiences we have had to date.

The overarching theme of the course was “Principles of Geriatric Care.” We attended up-to-date lectures delivered by members of the EAMA Board as well as internationally recognised experts. One of the most exciting aspects of the programme was the active involvement of participants, who were invited to deliver their own state-of-the-art lectures. The feedback provided by mentors and peers was invaluable, offering high-level insights into advanced presentation skills rarely gained elsewhere.

Beyond the scientific content, interactive sessions built around innovative teaching methodologies were both eye-opening and unexpectedly enjoyable. These sessions encouraged meaningful interaction, allowing participants to learn from one another’s cultural backgrounds and professional experiences. Discussions during lectures, interactive sessions, coffee breaks, and shared meals quickly fostered a strong sense of collegiality.

A special highlight was the visit of Marina Kotsani, a former ECGI member, EAMA alumni, and current Chair of the PROGRAMMING COST Action CA21122, whose presence truly felt like the icing on the cake!

We are fully aware that active involvement in the ECGI and EuGMS activities played a key role in enabling this experience. We therefore strongly believe that engagement within EuGMS represents one of the most valuable investments early-career geriatricians can make for their professional development.

In conclusion, we extend our sincere thanks to Prof. Thomas Münzer and the EAMA Board, the distinguished speakers, Mieke Laforce and Jenine Petley, for their outstanding organisational support, and the EuGMS Executive Board for making this journey possible. We very much look forward to continuing this experience at the next course in June in Prague.

ECGI Members in Nice: From Past to Present: Rui Buzaco, Serdar Ozkok, Marina Kotsani, Santiago Cotobal Rodeles, Katherine Walesby, Paula Sobrini

Left to right: Rui Buzaco, Santiago Cotobal Rodeles, Serdar Ozkok