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

Area Agency of Aging of East Texas • April 29, 2022

Throughout May, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) is joining organizations across the nation to celebrate the seniors in our communities for Older Americans Month (OAM). The AAA will host five celebration events across East Texas at area senior centers and community centers focusing on aging in place – how older adults can plan to stay in their homes and live independently in their communities for as long as possible.


OAM is a national initiative led by the Administration for Community Living. This year's theme focuses on empowering older adults on how planning, participation, accessibility, and making connections all play a role in aging in place – emphasizing that what each person needs and prefers is unique.


"Older adults play vital, positive roles in our communities – as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce, and more. Just as every person is unique, so too is how they age and how they choose to do it – and there is no 'right' way. That's why the theme for Older Americans Month 2022 is Age My Way. We hope you join us at one of our community events. Come learn how you can engage with friends, family, and through community activities to enrich your health and well-being!" said ETCOG's Director of the AAA, Colleen Halliburton.


The following OAM celebration events are open to the public and will include food, fun, door prizes, and information on services available to East Texas seniors:


  • May 13th at the Gilmer Area Senior Center, located at 206 Silver Alley in Gilmer, at 12:00 PM
  • May 19th at the Tyler Senior Center, located at 1915 Garden Valley Road in Tyler, from 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM
  • May 20th at the Henderson Community Center, located at 302 Fair Park Avenue in Henderson, from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  • May 24th at the Henderson County Senior Center, located at 3344 State Hwy. 31 E. in Athens, from 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
  • · May 24th at the Gregg County Extension Office, located at 405 East Marshall Avenue in Longview, from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM


The AAA serves as the region's leader in advocating and providing various services, such as information and referral, benefits counseling, case management, health education classes, senior nutrition, housing repair, and support through the Ombudsman program for people in nursing and assisted living facilities. These services help older individuals live independent, meaningful, and dignified lives in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. Contact the AAA for questions about the events by calling (903) 218-6500.

Man in glasses and suit smiles at the camera against a dark background.

ETCOG Welcomes Adrian Cornejo as New Director of Aging Programs

By East Teas Council of Governments • September 2, 2025
The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Adrian Cornejo as the new Director of the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA). In this role, Cornejo will lead efforts to develop and coordinate services that support the health, independence, and quality of life of older adults across ETCOG’s fourteen-county region. Cornejo brings a strong background in healthcare leadership and military service. He most recently worked as an Account Manager for Humana’s Institutional Special Needs Plan program, where he partnered with skilled nursing facilities to improve care coordination, leading to a 20% reduction in hospital readmissions. Earlier in his career, Cornejo served in the United States Navy for nearly two decades, rising to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer and managing budgets exceeding $550 million while leading more than 350 Sailors and Marines. “Adrian’s leadership experience in both healthcare and the military has equipped him with the skills and dedication needed to serve East Texas seniors,” said ETCOG Executive Director David Cleveland. “His background in building partnerships and his deep commitment to public service make him a tremendous asset to our team.” Cornejo shared his enthusiasm for his new role, saying, “It is an honor to join ETCOG and to serve the seniors of East Texas. My goal is to build on the strong foundation already in place at the Area Agency on Aging and continue to expand access to services that help older adults and their families live with dignity and independence.” The AAA is administered through ETCOG and is part of a nationwide network created through the Older Americans Act of 1965. It provides a wide range of services, including information and referral, benefits counseling, case management, health education, senior nutrition programs, housing repair, caregiver support, and Ombudsman advocacy for individuals in long-term care facilities. These programs are designed to help older residents remain active and independent in their homes and communities for as long as possible.

Get Medicare Help You Can Trust – One-on-One or in a Group

By Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • August 6, 2025
Medicare Open Enrollment is right around the corner, and with so many plans and choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our certified benefits counselors are here to help—whether you prefer to sit down one-on-one or schedule an educational session for your group or organization. They provide clear, unbiased information about Medicare so you can make informed decisions that fit your needs. These services are free and available to individuals, families, churches, senior centers, civic clubs, and other local groups. If you or someone you know has questions about Medicare coverage, upcoming changes, or available plans, now is the time to reach out. To schedule an appointment or request a group presentation, contact us at 1-800-442-8845 or www.easttexasaaa.org/request-speaker .
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