Area Agency on Aging to Host Free Conference in Pittsburg

Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • May 3, 2024

“Power in Community” Conference Will Cover Medicare Basics, Savings Programs, Preventing Fraud, Health and Wellness, and Community Resources

As we embrace Older Americans Month this May, ETCOG’s Area Agency on Aging of East Texas proudly announces its upcoming conference, “Power in Community,” dedicated to empowering and celebrating the senior community. This event will be held on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at the Douglass Alumni Community Center in Pittsburg, from 9:30 AM – 2 PM. It will gather esteemed healthcare professionals and advocates to explore crucial topics surrounding Medicare and the well-being of older adults.



With the "Power in Community" theme, the conference aims to provide invaluable insights, resources, and strategies to help seniors optimize their healthcare experiences. From understanding Medicare coverage options to navigating healthcare challenges, attendees will gain actionable knowledge to enhance their quality of life.


"As we honor Older Americans Month, it's imperative to recognize the invaluable contributions and wisdom of our senior population," said Colleen Halliburton, ETCOG’s Director of Aging. "Our Power in Community conference serves as a platform to not only celebrate their achievements but also to address the unique healthcare needs they face."


The event’s joint focus is celebrating our seniors during Older Americans Month and empowering them with community resources. The agenda will include fun activities such as bingo, door prizes, a Tai Chi demonstration, and interactive workshops led by the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas, the Area Agency on Aging of Ark-Tex Region, and the Texas Legal Services Center. The conference is geared toward seniors, children of aging parents, and caregivers.


"We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where older Americans feel empowered to make informed decisions about their health and well-being," added Halliburton. "Through collaborative efforts and community engagement, we can ensure seniors lead fulfilling and dignified lives."


Registration for the Medicare Conference is now open. To ensure their meal, guests are asked to RSVP to Nellie Spencer-Henry at 903-747-1319 by May 9th. For more information, please visit www.easttexasaaa.org.

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A woman is holding the hand of an elderly man while sitting in a chair.

USAging Announces New Public Awareness Campaign to Raise Visibility of Area Agencies on Aging

By USAging • June 25, 2025
USAging is celebrating 50 years as the national organization that represents Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) and Title VI Native American Aging Programs. As part of the 50th anniversary, USAging has launched a new public awareness campaign— Area Agencies on Aging: Helping You Live Long and Stay Strong . The goal of this campaign is to make the public aware of AAAs as a vital community resource and to educate consumers about the range of important services that AAAs offer to older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers. There are more than 600 AAAs serving every community across the country ready to help them to age well where most want—at home and in their community. All people hope to enjoy a long and healthy life—but many find that they need a little help as they go through the aging journey. “Research has shown that two-thirds of older adults will need some support to age well at home,” said USAging CEO Sandy Markwood. “But people often don’t know about AAA services or seek them out until they are in crisis—thereby missing the opportunity to connect to the range of services that are available to help them age well.” Services Provided by AAAs For Older Adults: Home-delivered and congregate meals: Nutritious meals at home or in group settings. In-home support: Assistance with daily tasks like bathing, cleaning and dressing. Transportation: Rides to medical appointments, stores and community activities. Health and wellness programs: Fall prevention, chronic disease management fitness classes. Benefits counseling: Help understanding and enrolling in Medicare, Medicaid and more. For Caregivers: Respite care: Short-term relief to prevent burnout. Training and support: Educational tools and support groups for caregivers. Information and referral : Guidance to local programs, services and community resources. “By 2035, older adults are expected to outnumber children under age 18 for the first time in the history of this country,” said Markwood. “By 2040, a full 22 percent of the American population will be 65 years or older. Currently, there are more than 53 million unpaid family caregivers in the United States. There has never been a more crucial time for people to learn about AAAs and the services that are available to them to help them live long and stay strong.” For more information, visit www.usaging.org/livelongstaystrong or connect with your local AAA by contacting the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov .
A man and a woman are practicing yoga together in a park.

Area Agency on Aging to Host Community Events Celebrating Older Americans Month

By Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • April 2, 2025
Throughout May, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) will join organizations nationwide in celebrating Older Americans Month (OAM). This month-long observance honors the contributions of seniors in our communities. To mark the occasion, AAA will host and collaborate with local organizations for four special celebration events across East Texas, held at senior centers and community hubs. These events will highlight the importance of connection and the role strong relationships play in maintaining a vibrant, healthy senior population. OAM is a national initiative led by the Administration for Community Living. This year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” challenges outdated perceptions and encourages a fresh perspective on aging. It promotes a shift in how society talks about, understands, and supports older adults, empowering communities to embrace aging in a more positive and inclusive way. Join Us for These Community Celebrations! The following OAM events are open to the public and will feature food, entertainment, door prizes, and valuable information about services available to East Texas seniors: 📅 May 7 – Henderson Community Building, 302 Fair Park, Henderson | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM 📅 May 15 – First United Methodist Church, 225 Lovers Ln, Athens | 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM 📅 May 16 – Jefferson Senior Center, 111 W. Broadway, Jefferson | 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM 📅 May 21 – Harrison County Agrilife Extension Office, 2005 Warren Drive, Marshall | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM The AAA advocates for seniors and provides essential services, including benefits counseling, case management, health education, nutrition programs, referrals, and Ombudsman support for those in assisted living. These services promote independence and dignity, helping seniors remain in their communities. For event inquiries, call (903) 218-6500.
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