For Professionals: Healthy Aging Summit

Watering the Seeds of Change: Helping Others Turn Goals Into Action | Rashelle Mason
This interactive session explores how to encourage people to pursue their goals, whether that means becoming more physically active, trying something new, or making a personal or professional change. Participants will explore what motivates people, what holds them back, and how to create the conditions for growth. Through guided reflection and practical strategies, attendees will learn how to nurture confidence, encourage small steps forward, and help others recognize new possibilities. Just as seeds need the right conditions to grow, people benefit from encouragement and support as they work toward their goals. Leave with practical ideas to help others water the seeds of change and take their first steps toward a goal.

Breaking the Cycle: Connecting Social Connection and Falls Prevention | Jill Renken and Vicki Kamp
What happens when a fall changes more than a person’s physical safety? Fear of falling can limit activity and participation, potentially reducing opportunities for meaningful social connection. At the same time, research suggests that loneliness and social isolation are associated with falls risk. How can communities address these interconnected challenges? This interactive session will explore the relationship between falls prevention and social connection and consider opportunities to integrate these priorities into community-based programs and services. Participants will examine real-world scenarios, identify opportunities for collaboration, and brainstorm practical strategies to help older adults remain active, connected, and confident.

Building Brain-Healthy Habits | Heidi Neeley
Changes in the brain can begin 20 or more years before symptoms appear. What if the small choices you make every day could help protect your brain for years to come? Research, including recent findings from the U.S. POINTER study, explores how lifestyle choices can support brain health at every age. In this interactive session, you’ll explore the 10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain, from physical and cognitive exercise to nutrition. You’ll also be introduced to (re)think your brain, the Alzheimer’s Association’s national six-step plan for building a personalized approach to long-term brain health.

Create a More Connected Workforce: Moving Beyond Generational Labels | Margie Hackbarth
Today’s workplaces bring together people with diverse experiences, perspectives, and communication styles. This session explores how generational labels and age-based assumptions can unintentionally reinforce stereotypes and create barriers to connection. Participants will learn practical strategies to strengthen trust, communication, and relationships across age-diverse teams. Through real-world examples and actionable tools, attendees will leave with 10 strategies to reduce tension, foster connection, and build stronger, more inclusive workplaces where people are valued for their unique contributions—not their age or generation.

Medication Matters: Managing Medications for Healthy Aging | Betty Chewning & Beth Fields
Medications can play an important role in helping us manage health conditions as we age, but they can also contribute to adverse events, including falls, confusion, and other health concerns. This session will explore common medication-related risks and the importance of helping older adults feel confident managing their medications and talking with their healthcare team. Participants will learn how a program like Get Med Wiser can build medication knowledge and confidence, strengthen conversations with pharmacists, and support safer medication use as we age.

From Referral to Reach: Partnering with Health Systems to Grow Community Programs | Laura Armstrong, Ellie Tesch, Kim Lombard
How can community-based organizations connect more people with programs that support healthy aging? Partnerships with health systems can bridge healthcare and community services, helping older adults access evidence-based programs that support their health and independence. This interactive session will explore how organizations are building referral pathways and growing program participation. Hear from panel experts and audience members who will share experiences, exchange ideas, and learn from one another’s successes and challenges to identify practical ways to strengthen partnerships and connect more people with community-based programs.