NKADD highlights the power of music and connection for older adults

Several members of NKADD’s Aging and Disability Services team were in attendance at the country’s largest three-day gathering of local leaders in aging well at home in San Diego, California, at the 2026 USAging Conference.

Associate Director for Aging and Disability Services Anne Wildman was honored to co-present with Arlene de Silva, CEO of Cincinnati Music and Wellness Coalition. Together, they inspired attendees with their session on HealthRHYTHMS Group Empowerment Drumming by sharing success stories of this program and showcasing how music can build social connections and improve well-being for older adults.

USAging is the national association representing and supporting the network of Area Agencies on Aging and advocating for the Title VI Native American Aging Programs. Our members help older adults, caregivers and people with disabilities throughout the United States live with optimal health, well-being, independence and dignity in their homes and communities.

To support this work, USAging holds the annual Answers on Aging Annual Conference and Tradeshow. This conference has become the country’s largest gathering of local leaders in aging well at home. Each year, more than 1,400 Area Agencies on Aging, tribal aging programs, federal, state and local leaders in aging, home and community-based services and caregiving attend from across the nation.