On Aging 2026: The Power of Belonging
Amplifying Voices, Advancing Justice, Accelerating Connection
Longevity is a universal right, and growing older is shaped by multiple social, cultural, and structural factors. For too many, these forces create barriers that limit connection, opportunity, and the support needed to thrive. On Aging 2026, held in Atlanta, will explore how the power of belonging can help remove these barriers and foster communities where every older adult is valued and supported.
This year, ASA proudly introduces a new track: Aging on the Margins, expanding on the success of Aging While Black. This track will provide an opportunity to take a closer look at the experiences of underrepresented groups. We also will, for the first time, welcome presenters hosting sessions in Spanish. On Aging 2026 will continue to have a variety of tracks, as we all play an important role in supporting a more equitable aging experience for all.
ASA continues to uplift diverse voices and share forward-thinking solutions to help create a more inclusive and responsive society. On Aging 2026 will bring together leaders, advocates, and changemakers who are committed to ensuring that all of us have an opportunity to age and thrive in ways that reflect who we are and what we need.
“The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”
–Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Benefits of Presenting at On Aging 2026
Through ASA’s powerful, multidisciplinary membership, we are uniquely positioned to lead learning and education at a national level, which allows us all to better serve, design for, and positively impact the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. population.
On Aging is the greatest opportunity to share your ideas and to connect with one another. The conference agenda and schedule are designed to optimize your time, help you meet your personal goals, and allows for many different ways engage.
- Different learning types, session formats, to meet your presentation and learning styles
- Opportunities to network throughout the day in sessions and into the evening with receptions and member meetups
- With such a large and multidisciplinary conference, attendees and presenters bring many unique perspectives, opening the door for new collaborations and innovation
Being at an in-person conference allows for the opportunity for you and your team to reimagine, get reenergized, and feel a sense of community.
Session Formats
All session formats are designed for educational and networking programming. The promotion of retail products is not permitted.
60-minute Presentation
60-minute Presentations are sessions that focus on educational topics or concepts and emphasize innovative models, promising practices, applied research or replicable programs. This format involves a formal presentation and should feature case studies and interactive activities.
AV included: laptop (does not have internal DVD player), projector, screen, free WiFi and wired microphone for table use.
Number of presenters: 2–5
Film/Video Session
Film/Video Sessions include the screening of a film or video,* accompanied by an educational component such as a filmmaker-led discussion, expert panel or small group discussion and Q & A. ASA staff will work with all film sessions to determine the length of time allocated for the session. The film should be brought on an external memory device as a MP4 file, to ensure seamless viewing. *Foreign and U.S.-based short and feature-length narrative, documentary, experimental and animated films are welcome.
AV included: laptop (does not have internal DVD player), projector, screen, free WiFi, and wired microphone for table use.
Number of presenters: 1–7
Networking Session
Networking Sessions are 60-minutes, during which a moderator facilitates discussion and collaboration between fellow attendees around a topic area. The topic area can be broad, to encourage a diverse mix of attendees and perspectives. Presenters host the networking session, offering guidance on how the session will progress, transitioning from introductions to experience and questions in the topic area, but also allowing for attendees to make connections with one another.
AV included: None.
Number of presenters: 2–6
Point/Counterpoint Debate
Point/Counterpoint Debates are 60-minute sessions in which a moderator facilitates debate between a panel of expert speakers with different views on a topic or policy position. The topic or policy position is clearly articulated by the moderator, who then invites each speaker to present affirmative, dissenting and/or alternative cases. Time will be allocated for questions from the audience after all sides are presented.
AV included: laptop (does not have internal DVD player), projector, screen, free WiFi and wired microphone for table use. Alternative microphone arrangement for large panels available upon request.
Number of presenters: 3–7
Poster Session
Poster Sessions provide presenters with the opportunity to educational content or topics related to data, research, evaluation, or other relevant themes. Presenters will stand with their posters during scheduled times to engage with attendees. Depending on demand, multiple poster sessions slots may be offered. ASA will provide an optional poster template for your convenience.
AV included: None
Number of presenters: 1–4
Roundtable Session
Roundtable Sessions take place in an informal setting with presenters and attendees all sitting together at a table. The sessions are consultative, 60-minute discussions for groups organized by topics. A brief presentation of the core educational content is followed by guided discussions and dedicated time for questions and answers. Participants are encouraged to collaborate, brainstorm, and connect around shared interests or practices. The facilitator(s) define the topic and goal for the hour and come to the session with a prepared agenda. Handouts or QR codes with resources are encouraged, as no AV equipment will be provided. For On Aging 2026, Roundtable sessions will be scheduled throughout the conference agenda and not held simultaneously. Sessions will also take place in individual rooms, rather than in one large hall.
AV included: None
Number of presenters: 1–4
Continuing Education (CE) Credit Consideration
To be considered for CE credit approval, a proposed session must meet the following criteria:
- Content must be evidence based, professionally relevant, and free from commercial promotion.
- Proposals must include 3 clearly articulated learning objectives aligned with the session content (included in proposal submission).
- Sessions must be at least 60 minutes to qualify
- A conflict-of-interest disclosure (must also be included on the first or second slide of the presentation).
- Presenter’s (and co-presenter’s) highest earned degree and/or professional license, including specific field or discipline (e.g. PhD in Psychology, MSW, JD)
Please note: ASA does not guarantee that any session will qualify for CE Credit. Final determination rests with the accrediting boards. Film sessions, networking sessions, and poster sessions will not qualify for CE credit.
On Aging 2026 Tracks
The following tracks are available for On Aging 2026.
- Age-friendly Initiatives
Age-friendly & Livable communities
Community planning & development
Universal design
- Ageism & Culture
Intergenerational programming
Age-incisive branding & marketing practices
Age-inclusive hiring & workforce practices
- Aging & Disability Track
Ableism in aging services
Disability rights advocacy
Aging into Disability, Lived Experience
Disability Identity throughout the Ages
Universal design
- Aging in Community
Transportation & mobility
Senior centers
Home & Community-Based Services
- Aging on the Margins
Showcase conference sessions in diverse languages, particularly Spanish
The intersectionality of aging and disability
Supporting content that is specific to underrepresented populations
Highlighting programming that is tailored to meet the unique needs of overlooked populations
- Aging While Black
awB Horizontals: advance care planning, brain health, caregiving, economic security, social connectedness
Amplifying the perspectives, experiences, and voices of Black adults
Advancing technology and innovation in Black communities
Supportive social systems, programs, services, and practices in Black communities
Research and knowledge-building of Black aging experiences
Palliative Care: optimizing quality of life and comfort in Black communities
- Caregiving & Supporting Caregivers
Family/informal caregiving
Paid/formal caregiving
Paid caregiver workforce issues
- Economic Security
Intersections of health & economic security
Housing affordability
Financial literacy & planning
Income security & retirement
Aging workforce issues
- Family Justice, Elder Law & Adult Protective Services
Workforce issues
Elder law
Adult Protective Services
Abuse, fraud, scams
- Future of Work, Organizational Capacity & Business Operations
Organizational strategic planning
Fundraising and development
Age-inclusive HR strategies
Tech strategies
- Innovation & Social Impact
Age-tech innovations
Digital divide
Social impact programs & investments
- Lifelong Learning, Engagement & Society
Lifelong learning
Creativity & the humanities
Volunteerism
Death & dying as a social construct
Spirituality & meaning
Intergenerational programming
- Loneliness, Social Isolation & Connectedness
Interdisciplinary programs/interventions
Resilience
Social isolation interventions
Senior center programming
- Mental & Behavioral Health
Behavioral health science
Careers in mental health
Clinical programs/interventions
Interdisciplinary programs/interventions
Resilience
Happiness
Brain health
Alzheimer’s Disease & Related Dementias
Substance use & abuse
Suicidality
Trauma/trauma-informed practice
Veterans’ programs & care
- Multisector Plans for Aging
With the goal of every state developing its own Multisector Plan for Aging, these sessions will provide attendees with everything they need to start and expand initiatives in their states. Topics could include:
Planning for equity in aging
New approaches to Multisector Plans for Aging
Using Multisector Plans for Aging as a roadmap for innovation
- On Tech @ On Aging
AI and Aging
Aging in Place with Help from Tech
Leveraging Tech for Better Care
Supporting Caregivers
Tech for a Better Brain & Body
- Physical Health & Well-being
Climate change impacts
Social Determinants of Health
Brain health
Alzheimer’s, Dementia & Related Diseases
- Public Policy & Advocacy
Tech policy & advocacy issues
Disability rights advocacy
Climate change policy
Workforce issues
- Systems of Care
Telehealth
Disability & accessibility
Emergency planning/disaster response
Home & Community-Based Services
Rural aging
Transportation
Universal design
End-of-life & palliative care
Long-term care
Healthcare economics
Workforce issues
Important Dates and Deadlines
June 24, 2025: Online portal opens for proposal submissions.
Aug. 8, 2025: Call for proposals closes.
Aug. 14, 2025: Proposals given to peer reviewers.
Oct. 1, 2025: Proposal acceptances announced. Presenters will be eligible for the early bird registration rate.
Oct. 1–Dec. 12, 2025: Presenters can secure the early bird rate by registering no later than December 12.
Dec. 12, 2025: Deadline for all presenters to be registered.
Jan.–Mar. 2026: Conference website regularly updated with presenter guidance and conference agenda.
April 20–23, 2026: On Aging 2026!
On Aging 2025 Presenter FAQ
What are the important dates for presenters?
June 24–Aug. 8, 2025: Online portal opens for proposal submissions.
Oct. 1, 2025: Proposal acceptances announced.
Oct. 1–Dec. 12, 2025: Presenter Rate is offered to all accepted presenters.
Dec. 12, 2025: Cutoff date for all presenters to be registered.
Jan.–Mar. 2026: Conference website regularly updated with presenter guidance and conference agenda.
April 20–24, 2026: On Aging 2026!
When can I submit my presentation proposal for On Aging 2026?
Proposals will be accepted from June 24–Aug. 8, 2025.
Where is On Aging 2026?
Hyatt Regency Atlanta
265 Peachtree Rd NE
Atlanta, GA 30303
When is On Aging 2026?
April 20–23, 2026
What is the submission fee?
There is no fee for submitting a proposal.
Does it matter what email address I use when submitting my proposal?
Yes! Please use the email address associated with your ASA account. If you are not sure which email to use, or believe you may have multiple accounts, please contact us at info@asaging.org.
I am not a member of ASA. Can I still submit a proposal?
Yes, both ASA members and non-members are invited to submit conference proposals; however, you must become an ASA member to attend the conference. If you are not a member and your proposal is accepted, you must join ASA before, or purchase membership together with, your conference registration. If you are unsure of your membership status, please connect with membership@asaging.org.
Can I be a primary presenter or co-presenter on a proposal if I am not a member of ASA?
ASA membership is not a prerequisite for submitting a proposal. If you are not a member and your proposal is accepted, you must join ASA before, or purchase membership together with, your conference registration. If you are unsure of your membership status, please connect with membership@asaging.org.
What is the difference between the primary presenter and the co-presenters on a proposal?
ASA assumes that the primary presenter is the “author” who will organize the session if the proposal is accepted. The primary presenter is responsible for ensuring that all co-presenters register for the conference on time at the posted presenter rates. If the proposal is accepted and the primary presenter is unable to attend and present, a co-presenter may take over organizing the session, with the permission of the primary presenter.
Please email onaging@asaging.org immediately about any changes to presenters or presenter roles for your session.
What are the registration requirements for presenters for On Aging 2026?
Presenters must register and pay registration fees by Dec. 12, 2025, to confirm their session(s). All sessions must meet presenter requirements, or they will be placed on the session waitlist. Please note: Once on the waitlist, there is no guarantee of receiving your requested session format, date and time. Waitlisted sessions will be added to the program if presentation times may become available.
Presenter and attendee conference fees allow ASA to offer the largest multidisciplinary aging conference in the nation.
Can I present at On Aging virtually?
No. While some sessions will be recorded and shared after the live event, we do not have the infrastructure necessary to host hybrid sessions. All presenters must plan to attend in person. Only people attending in-person will be listed in the conference agenda/app.
Can I request a presentation date/time?
Given the complexity of conference scheduling, we cannot accommodate specific presentation schedule requests.
My session was accepted, how do I verify my session’s format?
Log into your Speaker Portal to verify the date, time, and format of your presentation. Learn more about each format on this webpage.
Am I automatically registered for On Aging 2026 by submitting a proposal?
No. You must purchase registration by Dec. 12, 2025 and book your travel arrangements for the conference separately.
What will I be asked during the proposal process?
To submit a proposal, you will be asked to provide:
- A title, brief (3–5 sentence) description, session details and 3 learning objectives
- Demographic groups that your proposal addresses
- Information about you and all co-presenters
- Acknowledgment of presenter agreement
I am a co-presenter on a session, what do I need to do?
Maintain communication with the “primary presenter,” the person who submitted the proposal. All mass communications will be sent to the “primary presenter.” All presenters, including co-presenters, are required to register for the full conference by Dec. 12, 2025.
Can I withdraw my proposal after the submission deadline?
Yes. To withdraw a proposal submission, please email us at onaging@asaging.org as soon as possible.
If I am the primary presenter on a proposal and am unable to attend the conference, what should I do?
Although the primary presenter typically organizes the session, a co-presenter may become the primary presenter with permission from the person who submitted the proposal. If no one can attend the conference and present the proposal, the primary presenter must withdraw the proposal in writing by emailing onaging@asaging.org.
I am a co-presenter and I cannot attend—what should I do?
Please notify us a onaging@asaging.org of your withdrawal and cc your co-presenters.
When will I be notified about my submission?
Notifications for accepted sessions will be e-mailed to “primary presenters” Oct. 1, 2025. To make sure you receive all ASA correspondence, add info@asaging.org and onaging@asaging.org to your email’s “safe senders” list.
I am a Poster Presenter. What does that mean?
Your poster will be displayed for one full day of the conference (Tuesday–Thursday). There will be a designated time for presenters to stand next to their poster and engage attendees in conversations around its topic. Poster presentations offer the opportunity to facilitate many collaborations, partnerships and learning opportunities. Networking is a key purpose of attending a poster session, but the job of the poster itself is to communicate insight very quickly (and engagingly)!
ASA will offer a poster template to help you design your poster. You are not required to use this template.
I’ve been selected as a presenter, how do I access the presenter portal?
Please contact onaging@asaging.org if you are having issues accessing the On Aging 2026 presenter portal.
Presenter Agreements
- Primary Presenter Responsibility
As the primary presenter, I have completed and/or reviewed and approve my proposal(s) and have coordinated with my co-presenters (if applicable).
- Co-presenter(s) Confirmation
As the primary presenter, I confirm that my co-presenter(s) have agreed to participate before including them in the proposal.
- Presenter Registration and Membership Status
I agree that I and all my co-presenters will register by Dec. 12, 2025, if selected as a presenter at On Aging 2026. I understand that I must have an active ASA membership to participate in On Aging 2026.
- Registration Rates
I understand that the presenter rate is available only from October 1 to December 12, 2025. This rate does not include ASA membership, which is required to participate at On Aging 2026.
- Financial Disclosures
I agree that if selected for a presentation, I and all my co-presenters will disclose any potential conflicts of interest to the audience, including the following:
- Shareholder: Vested ownership in or ability to potentially obtain financial gain from the sale of products or services discussed in your presentation.
- Consultant or Speaker: Any consulting or representational or agency relationship(s) with the manufacturer or provider of commercial product(s) or service(s) discussed in your presentation.
- Educational or Research Grant: If your organization has funded research or other work described in your presentation, as a provider of commercial services or as other commercial supporters.
- Other Disclosure: If your presentation discusses use of products for off-label purposes, or products currently under investigational use.
- DEI Principles
All presenters are aware of ASA’s DEI principles (located here) and agree to adhere to these guidelines.
- Educational Content
On Aging sessions are intended to be educational, and the explicit promotion or sale of products or services is not allowed under any circumstances. The appropriate venue for direct promotion of products and services is the Resource Center & Exhibit Hall, which draws large numbers of conference attendees.
All content must be grounded in credible research and/or professional expertise. If a session addresses the lived experience of a particular community, at least one presenter must have direct, lived experience or a demonstrated history of working closely and respectfully with that community.
- Terms & Conditions
All presenters are aware of ASA’s Terms & Conditions (located here) and agree to them.
Contact Us
For any questions and/or comments, please email onaging@asaging.org.