25th Annual Striking a Balance Caregiver Conference

Join us for the 25th Annual Striking a Balance Caregiver Conference—a one-day, in-person event hosted by AGE of Central Texas and the Area Agency on Aging of the Capital Area. Held at the Austin Public Library – Central Branch, this conference is designed to empower unpaid family caregivers with expert guidance, practical tools, and vital community support. ASL Interpretation is available upon request - please register by August 11 and indicate your request during registration.

Registration is $20 per person and includes:
✔️ A copy of The AARP Caregiver Answer Book by Dr. Barry Jacobs and Dr. Julia Mayer
✔️ Complimentary lunch
✔️ Access to all sessions and exhibits

✔️ Free One-Day Pass to AGE of Central Texas' Thrive Social & Wellness Center

Conference sessions include:
🔹 Keynote Presentation – Dr. Barry Jacobs (The AARP Caregiver Answer Book, The Emotional Survival Guide for Caregivers, Meditations for Caregivers) and Dr. Julia Mayer share strategies for managing the emotional challenges of caregiving.
🔹 Legal and Planning Session – Elder law attorney Terry Garrett provides essential guidance on legal documents, long-term care planning, and protecting your loved one’s wishes.
🔹 Affordable Care Options Session – Learn about cost-effective caregiving solutions, including respite care and other local supports.

Additional offerings:
🔹 Resource Fair – Connect with local organizations offering services and support.
🔹 Supportive Care Lounge – A safe, comfortable, supervised space for your loved one while you attend the conference. This FREE Respite Care is provided by AGE of Central Texas for pre-registered guests.

🔹 ASL is available upon request.

Whether you're just starting your caregiving journey or navigating new challenges, this event offers expert support and a caring community to help you strike a balance.

Info: Check in is easy - no printed tickets required! Take some time to explore all of the supportive resources available in our community at the Resource Fair!

Info: This session explores cost-effective care solutions available in Central Texas to help families balance quality care with financial realities. Topics include housing alternatives such as income-based senior apartments and assisted living options; community-based respite programs that offer caregivers a break; adult day health centers that provide supervision, health monitoring, and social engagement at an affordable rate; and in-home care services with options for sliding-scale or subsidized support. Attendees will leave with practical tools and local resources to help plan for sustainable care and improve quality of life for both caregivers and their loved ones.

Info: In this essential session, elder law attorney Terry Garrett will guide attendees through the critical legal matters every caregiver and older adult should understand. Topics will include powers of attorney, advance directives, guardianship, Medicaid planning, and protecting assets while ensuring quality care. Attendees will learn how to prepare key legal documents, avoid common pitfalls, and make informed decisions that honor their loved one’s wishes. Whether you're new to caregiving or planning ahead for yourself or a family member, this session will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the legal landscape of aging with confidence.

Info: Presented by Dr. Barry Jacobs and Dr. Julia Mayer, authors of The AARP Caregiver Answer Book

In this heartfelt and practical keynote, husband-and-wife clinical psychologists Dr. Barry Jacobs and Dr. Julia Mayer draw from their decades of experience—and their new book, The AARP Caregiver Answer Book—to explore the emotional challenges and rewards of caregiving. Through personal stories, expert insights, and actionable guidance, they will address common caregiving struggles such as guilt, burnout, family conflict, and self-care. Attendees will leave feeling seen, supported, and empowered with realistic tools to manage stress and sustain compassion throughout the caregiving journey.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Austin Central Library, Austin Public Library, 710 West Cesar Chavez Street, Austin, United States