Now in its ninth year, the summit will focus on educating older adults and caregivers on mental health and its role in healthy aging in the Rio Grande Valley. This year’s event will be held in partnership with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and will connect community members, care providers, and local law enforcement with training, resources, and support services. 

This year’s summit will bring together municipal and county leaders, educators, public health professionals, businesses, and residents to examine healthy aging in Brownsville and the Lower Rio Grande Valley, and its impact on community livability. Healthy Communities of Brownsville, Inc. will lead this effort in collaboration with the WellMed Charitable Foundation, WellMed Medical Clinic, UTRGV, the City of Brownsville Parks & Recreation Department, Valley Regional Hospital, and other local partners. Together, these organizations form the Senior Advocacy Coalition, which addresses key aging issues including Alzheimer’s disease, mental health, social engagement, heart-healthy physical activity, and resources for family caregivers.

4 TCOLE hours (for Law Enforcement) and 4 CEU credits will be given to qualified participants. Virtual dementia tours will run throughout the Summit.

Featured presenters will include:

Dr. Gladys Maestre, UTRGV’s Memory and Aging Center at the School of Medicine
Ginny Funk, Program Director, Alzheimer’s Association
Shiann Moraida, MPH, Healthy Brain and Aging Program Director,Cameron County Public Health Department
Officer Linda M. Posada, City of Brownsville Police Department Mental Health Unit

The 2026 Summit Facebook page