Area Agency on Aging to Host 29th Annual REACH Conference Virtually Educating Hundreds Who Work with Seniors
Area Agency on Aging • November 9, 2020
Approximately 200 nursing facility administrators, practitioners, caregivers, and others who work with seniors will receive training at the annual REACH Conference
(Regional Education on Aging, Caregiving, and Healthcare). The Conference is hosted each year by the Area Agency on Aging
(AAA) to provide educational workshops, plenary sessions, and networking opportunities for professionals, caregivers, social workers, case managers, individuals serving older adults and persons with disabilities, and anyone interested in Aging issues.
As a safety precaution, the conference has transitioned into a one-day virtual event. This year’s theme, “Revision” features distinguished speakers, panel discussions, and various networking opportunities.
“We are excited to bring to you REACH 2020, as we revision our service delivery systems, commitment, and dedication in serving our community during a pandemic,” said Bettye Mitchell, Director of the Area Agency on Aging. “We are thankful to our partners, speakers and to the Aging Committee for their zeal in presenting this conference. As we bring 2020 to an end, we look forward to preparing for a face-to-face REACH conference 2021.”
Special keynote presentations include:
Meaningful Work and Workplace Engagement
Justin Jones-Fosu – Founder and CEO of Work. Meaningful. Where he helps organizations and individuals take ownership of their mindset, purpose, and performance to achieve amazing results.
Understanding and Responding to Dementia Related Behaviors
Jennifer DiLorenzo – Hospice consultant at Loving Hope Hospice. Jennifer makes it her mission to help families have a meaningful and memorable interaction with their loved ones with the absolute best quality of life and care.
Effective Communication Strategies for Alzheimer’s Caregivers
Bronwen Zilmer and Marshall Kratz – Bronwen is the Founder of The Oasis. Through personal experience, Bronwen helps give caregivers the chance to take care of themselves while having activities for their loved ones through The Oasis program. Marshall is a member of the REACH planning committee and a retired Certified Community Health Worker Trainer.
Ethical Leadership: Walking the Talk
LaWandra Smith – Founder of Blossoming You. LaWandra built her organization to help individuals develop their leadership skills through self-reflection and self-discovery.
REACH is partially funded by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. To register for the event or for more information, call the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas
at (903) 218-6500 or visit our conference website at www.aaa-reachconference.org.
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.
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 .
