On a bright April morning, set against the backdrop of Fairbanks Ranch Country Club, the Rancho Santa Fe Senior Center hosted its 10th Annual Healthy Aging Conference. This milestone event brought together leaders, medical professionals, care managers, and residents to explore what it means to age well (all with purpose, dignity, and informed care). Amy Joiner, Director of Education and Development at Cheer Home Care, attended for the first time, and it won’t be her last!
A Conference Rooted in Connection and Care
When she arrived, Amy noted a sense of harmony. “The energy was both upbeat and peaceful. You could feel how much care had gone into each detail, from the thoughtful vendor layout to the flow between speakers.” What struck Amy most was the structure of the event. Vendor tables weren’t relegated to the sidelines but intentionally placed so attendees and professionals could tune into the expert presentations. “It was one of the most organized conferences I’ve ever attended.”
Highlights from the Speakers
The guest speakers left a lasting impression on Amy.
Dr. Sarah Banks discussed dementia and brain health with both clarity and compassion. She shared that 6.7 million Americans over 65 live with dementia, and a two-thirds of these cases are women. The “tau inferno” affecting women’s brains was a compelling topic, as was her research in the Women, Inflammation, and Tau Study, which is currently enrolling participants aged 65 and older. Interested in getting involved in the research? Click here.
Amy was also inspired by Dr. Sheila Patel, whose session focused on Ayurveda and using the senses for self-healing. “Dr. Patel reminded us that self-care doesn’t need to be complicated; it can be as simple as mindful breathing, sipping warm lemon water, or listening to calming music. Those are some lessons I’m bringing back to our Cheer team.”
Dr. Bob Uslander, always a favorite, emphasized the power of advocating for one’s own healthcare decisions, which resonated with Amy professionally and personally.
Small Moments, Big Impact
Sometimes, the most meaningful experiences happen away from the podium. Amy described lunchtime as a moment of genuine connection: “I sat next to an older couple, two women from a nearby senior community, and two men who had just met. One gentleman had just lost his mother, who had received 24/7 in-home care. We spoke for a long time about his journey, her experience with hospice, and how supported he felt.” These moments reminded Amy why we do what we do and that home care isn’t just about services, it’s about presence, compassion, and honoring people’s stories.
Supporting Seniors Starts with Showing Up
The conference was more than an educational event; it embodied community care. Events like this help strengthen the presence of providers like Cheer Home Care. Being present, listening, and engaging with the community allows us to grow, directly benefiting the clients and caregivers we support every day.
Proceeds from the event go toward the Rancho Santa Fe Senior Center, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the well-being of seniors in the community. Visit www.rsfseniorcenter.org to learn more.
Want to learn more about what healthy aging in home care means to you or a loved one? Contact us today!
