By Dana Corwin, Office for Aging Services, Director
Each May, communities nationwide celebrate Older Americans Month (OAM), recognizing the strength, contributions, and vitality of older adults. Established in 1963, OAM honors the essential role older adults play in our families, workforce, and community life.
The 2026 theme, “Champion Your Health,” led by the Administration for Community Living, emphasizes prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility—encouraging older adults to take an active role in maintaining their health and independence.
Chautauqua County will mark the month with the 2nd Annual CHQ Aging Expo & Conference on May 21, 2026 (10 AM – 2 PM) at SUNY Fredonia.
This event brings together older adults, caregivers, professionals, and community partners to:
- Promote healthy aging and preventive care
- Connect residents with vital services and resources
- Foster social engagement and community inclusion
- Recognize the contributions of older adults, including our 2026 Volunteers of the Year
Attendees can take advantage of:
- Health screenings and wellness resources
- Educational workshops and expert presentations
- Information on Medicare, benefits, caregiving, and long-term planning
- Exhibitor tables from local agencies
- Interactive demonstrations and giveaways
Conference-style sessions will run at 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1 PM, offering 24 total sessions on topics such as Medicare, fraud prevention, brain health, estate planning, falls prevention, chronic disease management, and more. Seating is limited; pre-registration is encouraged.
Older Americans Month is more than a celebration—it’s a call to action. In a county where many residents are 60+, supporting healthy, connected aging is critical to our community’s long-term strength and vitality.
The CHQ Aging Expo reflects our shared commitment to helping residents age with dignity, independence, and purpose.
All are welcome to attend. You need to register at: chautauquacountyny.gov/CHQAgingExpo
Lunch: Available at your leisure between 11 AM and 2 PM. Food Trucks outside with some locations accepting the CHQAging card and cash/credit sales. Additionally, SUNY Fredonia will have box lunches for purchase in the basement of the Williams Center, where seating is also available to sit and enjoy your meal.
Transportation: We do not want lack of transportation to keep you from attending this valuable event! Assistance available upon request in the online registration form. This will automatically register you for transportation, and we will contact you around mid-May with the specifics.
If you need help with registration, call NY Connects at 716-753-4582. Registration deadline is Friday, May 8th, 2026! See you soon!
