Bluegrass Area Development District
Jun 22, 2026
Free event in Winchester features expert sessions on fall prevention, fraud, brain health and technology
The Bluegrass Area Development District's Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living, in partnership with the Bluegrass Mental Health and Aging Coalition, welcomed professionals, caregivers, advocates and community members to the 17th Annual Empowering Mindfulness Conference on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the Clark County Extension Office in Winchester.
For nearly two decades, the annual conference has provided valuable education and resources focused on aging, mental health, wellness and community support. As one of the primary organizers, the Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living worked alongside coalition partners to ensure older adults, caregivers and service providers had access to the latest information, tools and best practices promoting healthy aging and quality of life.
The conference featured a full day of engaging presentations led by experts from across Kentucky, covering some of the most pressing issues affecting older adults and those who serve them.
The conference opened with "Preventing Falls in Older Adults: Best Practices and Practical Tools," presented by Roy Tapp of the Kentucky Safe Aging Coalition. Participants learned practical strategies and evidence-based approaches to reducing falls and promoting safety among older adults.
Shellie May, executive director of the Office of Senior Protection and Mediation with the Kentucky Attorney General's Office, presented "Fraud, Scams, and Financial Exploitation: Recognition and Reporting," focusing on identifying common scams, recognizing signs of financial exploitation and understanding how to report suspected abuse.
Following lunch, Diane Vance, educator, scientist, Alzheimer's Association volunteer and former caregiver, led "Promoting Brain Health Across the Aging Continuum," sharing insights into brain health, cognitive wellness and dementia awareness drawn from both professional expertise and personal experience.
The final session, "Technology and Aging: Opportunities, Risks, and Practical Applications," was presented by Christina Espinosa, MRC, CRC, division director of Community Education at the Human Development Institute. Attendees explored how technology can enhance independence, support aging in place and improve quality of life while understanding potential risks and challenges.
General attendance was free. Social workers and community health workers had the opportunity to earn continuing education units for a registration fee of $15.
The Empowering Mindfulness Conference again served as an important regional resource, strengthening professional knowledge, fostering collaboration and supporting the well-being of older adults throughout the Bluegrass region.