Get Connected at Your Senior Center in September

Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • September 9, 2022

This September, the National Council on Aging (NCOA) is celebrating National Senior Center Month by showcasing how these vital community hubs connect older adults to each other and to valuable services to stay healthy and independent. 


The nation’s 10,000 senior centers are one of the most widely used services among America’s older adults, connecting 1 million individuals each year to programs that improve their health, economic security, engagement, purpose, creativity, mobility, nutrition, and more—all in a social and fun environment. Over the past three years, senior centers also have become integral to health care delivery by providing COVID-19 guidance, vaccine education, and vaccinations to participants. 


“Every day, senior centers bring our grandparents, parents, older neighbors, and friends together to build community and share trusted services and information to help all age well,” said Dianne Stone, NCOA’s Associate Director of Network Development and Engagement. “Research shows that compared with their peers, people who attend senior centers have higher levels of health, social interaction, and life satisfaction.” 


The theme for this year’s National Senior Center Month is Strengthening Community Connections. Centers across the country will be hosting special events, programs, and celebrations throughout September to raise awareness about the services they offer. 


NCOA’s National Institute of Senior Centers (NISC) sponsors National Senior Center Month every September. With the support of the U.S. Administration for Community Living through the Modernizing Senior Centers Resource Center, NISC is setting the standard for the future of senior centers by promoting research, promising practices, professional development, and advocacy. 


“There’s never been a better time to come home to your senior center,” Stone said. “Come see everything your local center has to offer.” 

People raising hands in a bright community hall with colorful tablecloths and folding chairs

Marshall-Harrison County Health District to Host “Navigating Aging” Class

By Marshall - Harrison County Health Department • July 13, 2026
The Marshall-Harrison County Health District invites community members to attend the next Building Healthy Futures class, Navigating Aging, on Thursday, July 30, at 1:00 p.m. at the Harrison County AgriLife Extension Office (2005 Warren Drive, Marshall, Texas). Presented by the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas, this free educational class is designed to introduce older adults, caregivers, and family members to valuable programs and resources that support healthy, independent living. Participants will learn about the Area Agency on Aging's evidence-based intervention programs, which are designed to promote wellness, prevent falls, manage chronic health conditions, and improve overall quality of life. Attendees will also enjoy a nutritious snack provided during the class. In addition to the presentation, the Area Agency on Aging will conduct a brief community survey to gather input on the types of aging-related classes and services residents would like to see offered in Marshall and Harrison County. Community feedback will help shape future educational opportunities to better meet local needs. "Building Healthy Futures is about connecting our community with trusted resources that support health and well-being at every stage of life," said Jennifer Hancock, Executive Director of the Marshall-Harrison County Health District. "We're excited to partner with the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas to learn more about the classes and services they offer." The class is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended by visiting mhchd.org or by contacting the Marshall-Harrison County Health District at 903-938-8338.

Older Americans Month Celebrated Across East Texas

By Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • June 3, 2026
Each May, the Administration for Community Living leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month, and this year’s theme was “Champion Your Health.” In recognition of the month, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas hosted three community events in Jacksonville, Marshall, and Athens, bringing together older adults, caregivers, staff, volunteers, and community partners to celebrate healthy aging and support older adults’ independence. More than 420 people attended the three events, where they received information and heard from experts on senior services, exercise programs, fraud and scams, and ways to take an active role in managing their health. Activities included on-site health screenings, evidence-based activity demonstrations, a Dementia Live demonstration, and the TxDOT Car Fit Program for Seniors. At some events, local officials also read proclamations recognizing May as Older Americans Month, including Cherokee County Judge Chris Davis, who presented the proclamation in Jacksonville. “We encourage older East Texans and their caregivers to connect with our agency to learn more about the resources and services available to help them live independently and remain active in their communities,” said Adrian Cornejo, ETCOG’s Director of the Area Agency on Aging. Special thanks to all event partners, sponsors, volunteers, AAA staff, and participants who helped make these Older Americans Month events a success!
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