AARP Virginia Speakers Bureau

For over half a century, AARP has been the nation’s leading social change organization defending, representing, and advancing the needs and wants of people 50-plus.  Our vision is for a society in which all people live with dignity and purpose, and fulfill their goals and dreams, and Purpose is to empower people to choose how they live as they age. We may be able to assist you by providing a speaker for your next event; this is a free community service offered by AARP.

The AARP Virginia Speakers Bureau delivers presentations and workshops on a wide range of topics, such as fraud and scam prevention, difficult conversations about caregiving, making your home safe and livable for a lifetime, and making the most of what’s next in your life.

AARP encourages members to keep this in mind when planning programs for organizations and church groups in their communities—and particularly welcomes invitations from those who want to know how AARP helps Virginians 50-plus live their best lives.

AARP trained volunteer speakers are beginning to fill their calendars. We invite groups of 15 or more to schedule an event with us IN VIRGINIA ONLY! Please do not request a speaker for another state.

Presentations and Workshops include the following:

Six Pillars of Brain Health
It’s never too late to take charge of your brain health! In this interactive session, you will learn about the six pillars of a brain-healthy lifestyle, share your brain-boosting activities, and be inspired by others.  This session is a good overview for anyone interested in improving their brain health and will provide you with actionable steps you can take along with resources to learn more.
Presentation details: 60 minutes; Ideal for any size group but we ask for a minimum of 15 people.

HomeFit Workshop: Modify Your Home for Safety and Comfort
The AARP HomeFit Workshop provides information to participants on how to decide what type of home modifications are needed to stay in their home as they age. It also provides ideas and inspiration on making those modifications. The goal of the presentation is to educate participants on home updates that can make it easier for them to go about their daily activities while staying comfortable, independent, and injury-free in their home.
Presentation details: 1 – 2 hours; we can tailor this workshop for you and your group. Ideal for any size group but we ask for a minimum of 15 people.

Fraud Basics
Have you ever been approached with a fraudulent offer or been a victim of identity theft? The AARP Fraud Watch Network is working to empower you in the fight, with proven resources and tools to help you spot and avoid identity theft and fraud. By taking a few practical steps, you have the power to fight back against fraud. This 30-minute session will arm you with the latest data on fraud trends and provide tips and resources to protect yourself and your family.
Presentation details: 30 to 90 minutes, we will tailor a presentation for you and your group. Ideal for any size group but we ask for a minimum of 15 people.

Caregiving 101: Creating a Plan
No matter where you are in the journey of family caregiving – just beginning to anticipate a need, helping to coordinate a big move, or taking care of a family member full-time – having a good framework to help guide both you and your loved one will make the process easier.  During this session, we will share a framework to help you make plans to care for friends, family members, or loved ones. You will have the opportunity to connect with other family caregivers, exchange tips and advice, and learn about resources available to you and your loved ones.
Presentation details: can be anywhere between 20 to 90 minutes, we will tailor a presentation for you and your group. Ideal for any size group but we ask for a minimum of 15 people.

Social Security: Understanding Your Benefits
Social Security is one of the most successful and effective social insurance programs in our nation’s history. In this session, we will explain the facets of Social Security (retirement, survivors, and disability benefits), discuss the options for when to claim your retirement benefits, and cover implications of working while collecting benefits. This session is a good overview for anyone interested in Social Security, and is especially useful for people considering their retirement benefit claiming options.
Presentation details: 60 minutes; Ideal for any size group but we ask for a minimum of 15 people.

Medicare 101: Understanding Your Benefits
Are you eligible to enroll in Medicare but don’t know where to start? This hour-long session will give you an overview of the different parts of Medicare, coverage and costs, and your choices of Medicare plans. This session is a good overview for anyone interested in Medicare and will provide you with resources and tools to learn more.
Presentation details: 60 minutes; Ideal for any size group but we ask for a minimum of 15 people.

Decluttering and Downsizing: You Can’t Take it With You
Having too much stuff can impede people from relocating or getting health care into their homes. This fun interactive presentation explores why stuff is so important for some people and teaches practical, easy-to-follow tips on downsizing and decluttering.  Cleaning out your house while you can is a gift and inheritance you can leave your children. Learn how to get started!
Presentation details: 60 minutes; Ideal for any size group but we ask for a minimum of 15 people.

Sorting Fact from Fiction Online
Do you believe everything you see online? There are plenty of sensationalized headlines, misleading stories and even complete falsehoods circulating on the Internet, making it hard for even the most discerning reader to sort fact from fiction. This free event will equip you with valuable tools and resources to help you stay safe online.
Presentation details: 45- 60 minutes; Ideal for any size group but we ask for a minimum of 15 people.

Presentations are scheduled pending the availability of our volunteers; not all presentations are available statewide.