Join us on November 7th for “Who Cares? We do!” a free conference on caregiver needs, services and resources
East Texas AAA • October 24, 2019
In recognition of National Family Caregivers Month, ETCOG’s Area Agency on Aging of East Texas has joined with the St. Louis Baptist Church of Tyler’s Comfort and Care Ministry to bring a free conference for caregivers, “Who cares? We do!”. The conference is designed to offer caregivers – families and individuals in East Texas caring for loved ones with chronic, disabling health conditions – with information and resources needed to carry out their role as caregiver. The conference will include presentations from local experts on Opioid Misuse Prevention, Medicare Enrollment, Services in the Aging Network, and featured presentations, “What Makes the Impossible, Possible,”
from care recipient, Wendell Jeffery, and “Lessons Learned from Ms. Jessie & Me,”
from motivational speaker, Lawandra Smith.
“As loved ones age, debilitating disease, chronic health conditions or simple frailty can arise in a family, and one may end up a caregiver, sometimes unexpectedly,” said ETCOG’s Area Agency on Aging Director, Bettye Mitchell. “While some employ paid providers, most rely on assistance from families, friends and neighbors, who soon become “on call" 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We see the role stress plays in the lives of family caregivers who are trying to do too much with too few resources. This conference is here to support and guide individuals in their caregiving role.”
“Who cares? We do!”
Caregivers Conference will be held on Thursday, November 7th, at the St. Louis Baptist Church located at 4000 Frankston Hwy., from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Lunch will be provided.
“Caregivers are a gift of honor,” says Rev. Ralph E. Caraway, Sr., senior pastor of the St. Louis Baptist Church. “St. Louis’ Comfort and Care Ministry and I are dedicated to honoring those who give so much of themselves.”
Pre-registration is needed by Tuesday, November 6th to participate. For reservations, please call (903) 595-5212 or email Juanita.Padron@etcog.org.
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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