Karen Wolfe, M.B.B.S., MA
Mission Viejo, California

Successful Aging – Scientific Discoveries for Increased Longevity Enhanced Quality of Life
What determines how well we age? How can we maintain optimal physical and mental strength throughout later life? Rather than looking at aging in terms of expected disease and decline, Dr. Wolfe explores the scientific evidence for healthy longevity that includes how regular aerobic exercise stimulates better and more effective mental activity a s well as brain longevity and the role of stress reduction, sleep, productive work, self-care and service to others.

Karen Wolfe is a national and international speaker, author and wellness coach. Karen is a licensed physician in her homeland Australia. She worked initially as a family physician followed by 8 years of experience in the administration of national health care, wellness and senior programs in her role as the Medical Director of the Australian Government Health Service. She has extensive experience in health care, wellness and disease management and presents at local, national and international conferences on subjects such as Mind/Body Medicine, health care reform, managed care, specific disease management strategies and integrated health management.

Mark Laker, MS
Indianapolis, Indiana

Wellness and Humor: Let's Get Personal

This session will include various dimensions of wellness including the mind, body, and spirit. Exploring humor as an important part of wellness will allow participants to not only understand the importance of humor, but also to laugh and have fun. Mark Laker worked as a health educator for over 28 years with the Indiana State Department of Health where he presented hundreds of programs on Health and Wellness. He has presented programs on Humor at the National Conference on Alzheimer's, the Governor's Conference on Aging, and the National Conference of Activity Professionals.

Abby Shields  B.C.B.T.
Covington, Louisiana

Life Happens! Embracing Life’s Inevitable Changes
As we move into the second half of our lives, adapting to life’s inevitable changes can be challenging. How we respond to these changes can profoundly affect the way we live out our later years. Life’s transitions, difficult as they can be, afford us the opportunity to find our true inner direction and engage in the process of self-renewal. You won’t want to miss this fun filled program as Abby looks at some guidelines to make the journey rewarding and joy filled.

Abby Shields is a dynamic, international speaker and author who brings objectivity, sensitivity, enthusiasm, and a liberal dose of humor to her programs. 
Abby was named to Who’s Who of Professional Women, and Who’s Who of American Educators. Her work with organizations has been featured on NBC’s, The Today Show. Attendants at Abby’s seminars have said, “she redefines the term global warming as she lays down the cornerstone to her dream that one day all people will treat one another with dignity and respect.”

Bob Hornyak
Washington DC

Modernizing the Older Americans Act: Partnerships and Opportunities
The Administration on Aging is strategically focused on enhancing consumer control, choice and independence for older adults and persons with disabilities. This is a three-pronged strategy including: Aging and Disability Resource Centers; Evidence-Based Prevention Programs; and Medicaid and Nursing Home Diversion. This session will provide information on the Role of the Administration on Aging in Health and Long Term Care Reform, including discussion on opportunities to serve older adults afforded to states, Agencies on Aging, and local communities.

Bob Hornyak is the Director of the Office of Core Programs within the U.S. Administration on Aging.  The Office of Core Programs is responsible for all services under Titles III-B (supportive services), III-C (nutrition services), III-D (health promotion) and III-E (National Family Caregiver Support Program).