Seventy-six million American children were born between 1945 and 1964. This generation is known as the “Baby Boomers”. Henderson County’s 65 years and older age group has increased by 11.17% over the last 10 years. 

Henderson County Extension FCS agent has partnered with Redbank’s senior apartments programming coordinator and director for the last eleven years to promote a program called the “Senior Expo”. This event was created to bring information to our seniors. In the past the event offered informational booths from local businesses, government agencies, non-profits and clubs that provided information about their services.  

Over the last couple of years, we took information to the community due to the pandemic.  Targeting senior living and pick up locations over 225 bags were assembled and delivered to locations such as Redbank’s Towers, Regency Apartments, etc. These bags were well received in the community and still enabled us to get information out.   Many have said that this allowed them to receive the information without feeling like they were putting themselves in danger of getting sick, enjoyed reading all that Henderson has to offer seniors and liked the goodies that the agencies provided.

Breakout sessions were provided.  This year we had the Deputy Director, Office of Senior Protection Office of the Attorney General talk about scams, circuit court clerk talked about the new driver’s license location and the updated information on driver’s license and diabetes coalition spoke on healthy eating.  A local pharmacy provided free flu shots. At the end of the program a special guest appeared for entertainment. 

In attendance we had 164 individuals this year.  The evaluations stated this year that individuals were glad to be back in person.  All participants wanted to see the event continue in person.  Half of the participants were 1^st timers and the other half had attended in the past.  The participants heard about the event by FCS newsletters, Facebook, radio announcements, family and friends and flyers.  Things that participants will change because of the information they received are being aware of checking blood sugar often, eat better, security-do not answer phone, more careful about emails/calls, driver license-get Real ID license. 100% of participants said that they love the event and cannot wait until next year.  Many stated that from previous years that they are now eating healthier and exercising.

The event is being planned for next year.