The Western Reserve Area Aging on Aging (WRAAA) Speakers Bureau offers presentations with no associated fees on various topics. With these presentations, WRAAA strives to inform, educate and engage individuals, groups, nonprofits and businesses. A variety of topics are available. Also, WRAAA can tailor presentations to meet your organization’s specific needs. In most cases, presentations can be customized to meet CEU requirements. Our knowledgeable speakers will provide an interactive and informative presentation for you.

In addition, WRAAA participates in community engagement opportunities like health fairs, community fairs, festivals, carnivals, picnics/reunions and more. WRAAA provides information booths/exhibits staffed by informative staff and volunteers who share information about programs and services as well as other community resources.

Available Presentations

WRAAA-We Care! Gain an understanding of the aging and disabilities network from a national, state, and local perspective. Learn how the Area Agency on Aging plans, coordinates, and facilitates the development of a comprehensive regional community-based care network. Receive an overview of WRAAA programs and services. (45 min.)

Advocacy in Motion (AIM): AIM trains consumers, service providers, and other organizations to be informed and effective advocates. AIM is a mechanism for the exchange of information, resources, and tools that develop the capacity of volunteers to participate in advocacy activities. (Overview - 45 min. / Full training 3 hours)

AGINGWell: Optimal health is everyone’s goal. This presentation focuses on how a sense of well-being can be achieved through social engagement, intellectual stimulation, and physical activity. (45 min.)

Aging Awareness – Growing Older: What’s it like to grow older? An interactive program that explores the aging process through simulated exercises and discussion. (1.5 hours)

Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC): Learn about how the ADRC provides information, assistance, and referral to help older adults and persons with disabilities maintain their independence. Understand what occurs when someone calls the Resource Center for assistance and about the free in-person assessment. (1 hour)

Aging-Everybody’s Business: Through this presentation, learn how the mature market impacts businesses. Once an overlooked and sometimes forgotten demographic, older adults have emerged as a key consumer group. The mature market segment will not only have an impact on Social Security and Medicare but the business industry as well. Globally the older adult market is valued at $15 trillion dollars. Dubbed the silver economy, these consumers present new opportunities for businesses. (45 min.)

Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP): In the Chronic Disease Self-Management workshop, participants will learn; 1) techniques to deal with problems such as frustration, fatigue, pain, and isolation, 2) appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility, and endurance, 3) appropriate use of medications, 4) communicating effectively with family, friends, and health professionals, 5) nutrition, 6) decision making, and 7) how to evaluate new treatments. Classes are held in community settings such as senior centers, churches, and libraries. (The workshop is given 2½ hours once a week for six weeks.)

Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP): In the Diabetes Self-Management workshop, participants will make weekly action plans, share experiences, and help each other solve problems they encounter in creating and conducting their self-management program. Subjects covered include: 1) techniques to deal with the symptoms of diabetes, fatigue, pain, hyper/hypoglycemia, stress, and emotional problems such as depression, anger, fear, and frustration; 2) appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength and endurance; 3) healthy eating 4) appropriate use of medication; and 5) working more effectively with health care providers. The workshop is given 2½ hours once a week for six weeks, in community settings such as churches, community centers, and libraries.

EyeSense: In collaboration with Prevent Blindness/Ohio Affiliate, WRAAA has certified vision screeners that can conduct free vision screenings for your consumers. Adult Vision Screeners are certified by Prevent Blindness and identify risks for eye disorders or disease; provide the public with valuable information and education about eye care and may make referrals to an eye care professional. Those who qualify may be eligible for free eye exams and /or a voucher for a free pair of glasses. Please note that screeners do not diagnose eye disease. This presentation offers an adult vision screening and depends on the number of participants. (Time is determined by the number of participants.)

Family Caregiver Support Program: Learn how the Family Caregiver Support Program team helps identify unique caregiver needs and connect individuals with resources that may help. Resources may include respite, support groups, and even financial support. (45 min.)

HomeMatters: Older adults and disabled individuals are vulnerable to home-related incidents, including fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, home invasions, and falls. This program introduces participants to home safety issues and assessments to identify homes at risk for accidents, carbon monoxide poisonings, fires, and invasions. Please note many municipalities offer free smoke detector installation and home safety checks. (45 min.)

PASSPORT: This presentation describes the PASSPORT program which is for persons aged 60 and older who need the level of care provided in a nursing home but want to stay in their home. It is a statewide program funded by Medicaid. Learn how an individual qualifies for PASSPORT and why Medicaid-waiver programs are essential to supporting individual independence. (45 min.)

Matter of Balance (MOB): Many older adults experience concerns about falling, which may lead to restricting activities. MOB is an award-winning, evidence-based program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels. Note: eight to ten participants and a commitment to attend an eight-week series of classes are required. (Each class is 2 hours in duration.)

Money Smart for Older Adults Program: This program raises awareness among older adults and their caregivers on how to prevent elder financial exploitation and encourages advanced planning and informed financial decision-making. Money Smart for Older Adults was developed jointly by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection. (90 – 120 mins.)

MyMeds Ohio: The program focuses on medication management, offering a free review of prescribed medications by a licensed Pharmacist and/or qualified provider to determine medication-related problems. As a result, consumers may be better able to manage their medications and prevent adverse effects. (45 min.)

Senior Planet-Older Adults Technology Services Tech Programs: WRAAA offers a variety of technology programs for older adults. However you like it, onsite or virtual programs. Instructors are patient while teaching and demonstrating the latest in technology. Workshops include Computer Basics, Ipad Essentials, Financial Education, Smartphone Photography, and  All Things Zoom. Visit our website for a complete listing.

To request a speaker or community engagement booth and/or for more information, please complete the Speakers Bureau form with information regarding your presentation needs and a member of our Community Outreach team will follow up with you.