Summit on Aging and Independence

Wednesday, September 30, 2026

8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Buffalo Marriott Niagara, 1340 Millersport Hwy., Amherst, NY 14221

The Summit on Aging and Independence provides an opportunity to connect, learn and share “Best and Next Practices” for addressing the current and future needs of older adults and people with disabilities.

Our theme this year is “Tools for Living Well”. This day-long event will feature keynote speakers and concurrent workshops throughout the day.

Partcipants include Human Service and Healthcare providers, advocates, providers supporting aging in place, educators, and caregivers.

Registration and Sponsorships

Registration – $125 per person

Students – $80 per person

Sponsorships, Exhibitor Tables, and Program Ads are available. View our options.

Register online at https://events.humanitix.com/summitonagingandindependence

Keynote Speakers

Breakfast Keynote
“Assistive Technology Perspectives” a panel discussion

Luncheon Keynote
“NYS Office for the Aging – Expanding Services Through Technology & Innovations”
Presenter: Michael Gunn, Assistant Deputy Director – Division of Policy, Planning, Program & Outcomes, NYS Office for the Aging

Workshop Topics and Presenters

“Care Smarter, Not Harder: Practical AARP Tools for Busy Senior Living Professionals”
Presenter: Kathleen Benedetti-Fisher, AARP

“Building Brain-Healthy Habits”
Presenter: Kailea Lalka, Alzheimer’s Association

“Supporting Independence Through Nutrition: Examining Current and Future Strategies”
Presenter: Cassidy Bertino, FeedMore WNY

“Movement Is Medicine”
Presenter: Dr. Dana Robbins, PT, DPT, Home and Happy Inc.

“People and Housing Prepared for the Future: Emergency Preparedness and Climate Health & Safety”
Presenter: Josh Randall, WNY Clean Energy Hub/Cornell Cooperative Extension

“More Than a Plan: Empowering Community Re-Engagement Through Person-Centered Planning”
Presenters: Andria Miller, Mickey Dolinski, Nancy Hudson, NY Association on Independent Living

“Making Your House, Your Home: The 8 Keys to Aging in Place”
Presenter: Willie A Price, WNY Aging in Place Council

“Important Considerations When Working with Older Adults Aging with HIV”
Presenters: Zoe Gaby-Smith, Jennifer Gough, Trillium Health

“AI and Care Design Workshop: Co-Creating Transformative Futures”
Presenters: Joy Ming, Steve Peraza, Michael Rembis, University of Buffalo

“Elder Fraud: Perspectives from the Scammers and the Investigators”
Presenters: Panel of Experts

“The Importance of Health Insurance & the Medicaid Journey”
Presenters: Robert Brandon, Gabrielle Aldrich, WNY Independent Living

“Practicing Attentive Listening: A Transformative Tool for Serving Your Clients, Your Community, and Your Calling”
Presenter: Amber L Sastry, MPP, A Storied Life