Older Americans - Sharing the Stories of East Texans
Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • June 23, 2021
Cathryn Austin - Panola County
As part of the Area Agency of East Texas’ mission to serve the elderly population, 95-year-old Cathryn Austin of Panola County was gracious enough to share her life story with us.
Mrs. Austin was born and raised in Carthage, where she farmed, raised a family, and is still involved in the community she has come to love.
“Well, I grew up in Carthage, and went to school in Carthage, and worked in Carthage, and married a man out here,” she said.
That man, Truett Austin, and Cathryn had two children, Donna and Don.
“My brother is nine years younger than me, and I was so glad when he came along so he could share in the work,” said Donna Marler, Mrs. Austin’s daughter.
Throughout the years, the family raised livestock, grew vegetables, picked cotton on the family farm that has been in the family since 1917.
Hard work runs in the family and is a cherished value that both Mrs. Austin and Donna hold dear.
Even at 95-years-old, Mrs. Austin is still involved in the community through activities like sewing blankets for hospitals and foster homes and calling family and friends to keep spirits alive.
When asked what advice she would give others, Mrs. Austin said to stay busy.
“Finding out what they can do and see about doing it,” she said. “Just take every day as it comes.”
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 This year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” challenges outdated perceptions and encourages a fresh perspective on aging.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.
Assistance is available to find and compare 2025 health and drug plans now
