By Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera
Each May, we recognize Older Americans Month as a time to celebrate older Americans' contributions to our nation, highlight aging trends and pledge a commitment to caring for older adults. The theme for 2026 is “Champion Your Health,” encouraging our older adults and those who play a role in their life to focus on wellness, prevention and staying active while aging.
Our Erie County Department for the Aging offers many events and activities that serve exactly that purpose. From “Club 99 Finess” to the “Retired Seniors Volunteer Program,” there is something for everyone.
Older Adults, ages 50 and up, are also invited to participate in “University Express Lifelong Learning,” a series of free classes designed to stimulate the mind, while building new social networks. I am excited to share that the Spring 2026 catalogue is now available online with classes beginning in May.
This semester, the kickoff event will take place Monday, May 4 at 1:00 p.m. and is hosted by Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz. “Roosevelt Rumble: FDR v. TR” features a thought-provoking showdown between two of America’s most influential presidents. Blending humor, history and friendly competition, come ready to learn, cheer and decide which Roosevelt reigns supreme! To register, call the Orchard Park Senior Center at (716) 662-6452.
To view the full spring catalog, visit https://bit.ly/4tTgBXK.
I would also like to note that this year’s Elder Law Day will take place on Tuesday, June 2 at the Buffalo Marriott Niagara, located at 1340 Millersport Highway in Amherst. This annual event has become a valuable experience for older adults and their caretakers and is put on through a partnership between the Erie County Department for the Aging and the Center for Elder Law & Justice.
Participants can sit in on presentations focusing on a variety of topics, including: Medicaid Eligibility; Long Term Care planning and Asset Protection; Preparing for Incapacity through Advanced Directives; Estate Planning and Probate; and Patient Rights in Hospitals and Rehabilitation settings.
There will also be opportunities to meet one-on-one with an attorney for a free legal consultation. This is limited to one per household and must be selected while registering. The event includes coffee and pastries, as well as a boxed lunch. To register, visit erie.gov/ELD.
Year round the Department for the Aging works hard to provide fun and engaging programing. Additionally, Erie County offers services like “Going Places Transportation,” which provides free rides to medical appointments, trips to Stay Fit Dining Sites or social activities, and more. I encourage older adults, families and caretakers to explore these programs and resources by visiting erie.gov/aging. You can also call the NY Connects line, which is answered by our Department for the Aging staff right here in Erie County, at (716) 858-8526.
I am proud of the work we do to make life vibrant for older adults across Erie County. I thank our Department for the Aging Staff, the Live Well Erie Older Adults Working Group, and all other community partners who work to empower older adults across our community!