About this Event
Aging Well Together Conference
The Next Chapter: Connection, Wellness & Recovery
Tuesday, November 17, 2026 | 8:30 AM–3:30 PM
University at Albany, ETEC Building
Join us for Aging Well Together: The Next Chapter, an engaging, interdisciplinary conference exploring aging through the lenses of connection, wellness, recovery, and lived experience.
Designed for older adults, caregivers, healthcare and behavioral health professionals, community organizations, and others interested in supporting healthy aging, the day will move from Lived Experience → Evidence → Practice → Community Action.
What to Expect
Lived Experience
The day begins with an opening peer panel, Aging, Recovery & the Next Chapter, featuring people sharing their experiences of aging, recovery, and navigating life’s transitions.
Evidence
Featured keynote speaker Dr. Ben Rein, along with researchers from the University at Albany, will explore what we know about aging, social connection, health, resilience, and quality of life, as well as what we are still learning.
Putting It Into Practice
Participants will explore practical approaches to wellness and mental health through sessions on the WISE Program, mental wellness during life transitions, and the intersection of recovery, medications, aging, and whole-person wellness.
Community Action
The day will close with facilitated community conversations focused on moving from stigma and ageism toward connection and belonging. Participants will identify practical ideas and actions that can continue beyond the conference.
Throughout the day, participants will have opportunities to connect with others, visit exhibitors and community partners, participate in brief reflection activities, and engage with our Artist in Residence, Brianna Phillips of the Collective Process.
Conference Themes
🌿 Connection and belonging
💙 Recovery and wellness
🧠 Mental health and healthy aging
🤝 Lived experience and peer support
📚 Research and evidence
💬 Practical strategies for navigating life transitions
🌱 Community action and reducing stigma and ageism
Come ready to learn, connect, reflect, and consider what the next chapter can look like for ourselves, the people we support, and our communities.
Event venue & nearby stays
UAlbany ETEC Building, 1220 Washington Avenue, Albany, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.