Medicare Open Enrollment Events
2022-10-14 - 2022-12-07
Let SARCOA help you get ready for Medicare Open Enrollment!
We will be coming into Senior Centers to allow seniors and Medicare beneficiaries of all ages in the community an opportunity to get prepared for the annual Medicare Open Enrollment period that starts October 15, 2022 and lasts through December 7, 2022.
These events are intended to help persons enroll in a Medicare plan for 2023 during the Open Enrollment period beginning on October 15 and ending on December 7, 2022. If you currently have a Medicare plan, you can switch to a new plan during the Open Enrollment period. All seniors are encouraged to remember that just because a plan worked well for last year does not mean it will work best for you this year. Plans change and your medications may have changed. Everyone should have their plan reviewed prior to attending this event.
For complete information and dates for these events, click the button below.

GO TO MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT EVENTS CALENDAR

Santa For Seniors 2022
2022-11-04 08:00 - 2022-12-10 17:00 (America/Chicago)
All of Our Seniors Have Been Sponsored But we still Need Donations!

And you have done it again! All seniors have been sponsored! We are always so blown away at the generosity of our Wiregrass community. However we are not done yet! If you would like to spread the magic, you can still donate to this project by clicking the donate button below. There are still large items from Wish Lists that need to be purchased. Wish List items such as electronics, a recliner, mattress and box spring, outdoor rocking chairs, heaters and more need to be purchased in order for all the seniors to receive their Christmas gifts. Please donate to Santa For Seniors so that we can complete their Christmas wishes.
CLICK TO GO TO OUR SANTA FOR SENIORS DONATE PAGE

Bingocize
2023-01-01 - 2024-12-31
Bingocize® is a socially engaging group-based program that combines exercise, health education, and the widely popular game of bingo. Research has shown that participants can significantly improve their physical, social, and mental health. Virtual and physical Bingocize events are scheduled throughout the year. For more information, to view upcoming events, and to register click the button below:
Learn More

Valentine Concert And Dance
2023-02-09 18:30 - 20:30
Please join us for the 2023 Valentine Concert & Dance on February 9th from 6:30 – 8:30PM at the Enterprise Civic Center. The concert will feature the Dothan Moonlighters band. This no-cost event for older adults and is hosted by SARCOA, the City of Enterprise, and the Dothan Moonlighters. Please call SARCOA to RSVP (334)793-6843. Space is limited. Click here to download the flyer.
The Valentine’s Day Concert and Dance for Wiregrass Boomers and Seniors was held for the first time in 2013. It was a such a great success that it has become an annual event that is enjoyed by hundred’s of seniors and boomers each year. Local big band The Moonlighters perform and attendees crowd the dance floor. This event is usually held at the Enterprise Civic Center on the Thursday night before Valentine’s Day each year.

Fraud Summit
2023-02-16 09:00 - 11:30
Educate And Protect Yourself Against Financial Fraud And Scams
Join us for the 2023 Fraud Summit where speakers from the Better Business Bureau, Alabama Securities Commission, Alabama Attorney General’s office, and more will be educating senior citizens on protecting themselves from scams, financial and other types of exploitation. A complimentary lunch will be served.
Date: Thursday February 16, 2023
Time: 9 am – 11:30 am
Location: SARCOA, 1075 S. Brannon Stand Rd., Dothan, AL
To RSVP for this no-cost event, email joy.riddle@sarcoa.org or call (334) 793-6843.
To download the event flier click here.

Caregiver College
2023-08-24 09:30 - 14:00
Caregiver College
Caring for a loved one is not a role for which most of us are prepared, but a job that nonetheless often becomes part of our lives and future. To help families and professionals better understand and meet the needs of our caregiving roles, SARCOA presents Caregiver College. The event is hosted by Alabama Cares. Alabama Care supports caregivers so they may continue providing valuable care services to their loved ones while living fully and well. To register for this event, fill out the form below and click Send.
Educational topics and speakers include:
Scams and Fraud
Medicare
SARCOA Legal Dept.
Covington County Sheriff’s Dept. and More!
Date:
August 24, 2023
Time:
9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Event Location:
Opp Senior Activity Center
500 Brantley St.
Opp, AL
Registration

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Senior Day At The Fair
2023-11-09 10:00 - 14:00 | National Peanut Festival, 622 US Hwy 231 S, Dothan, AL, 36301, United States
Each year during the National Peanut Festival in Dothan, Alabama, a special day is set aside to honor all area senior citizens (55 and older). Admission is free for seniors to enjoy the festival and all it has to offer. Special programs are also provided.
Gates open at 10 a.m.
National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds
Highway 231 South, Dothan
Free admission for seniors age 55+
Free Ferris Wheel Rides
Food Vendors

Take The Virtual Dementia Tour
2023-11-29
Take The Virtual Dementia Tour

Experience what it’s like to live with dementia by taking this eye-opening tour. The Virtual Dementia Tour is an evidence-based, patented program designed so that, through simulation, anyone can experience what it’s like to live with dementia. The tour is specifically curated for caregivers, friends, and healthcare providers who interact with individuals living with dementia. To download a flyer click here.
Time: WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2023
The event is FREE. However, registration is required to schedule your tour time.
Sign-up is on a limited basis. To register click the button below.
Register

Walk With Ease Program
2024-01-01 - 2025-07-13
The Arthritis Foundation Walk With Ease Program is a 6-week community-based physical activity and self-management education program. While walking is the central activity, Walk With Ease is a multi-component program that also includes health education, stretching and strengthening exercises, and motivational strategies. SARCOA is pleased to offer Walk With Ease to our 7-County regions that we serve. This is a self-directed program so you can start as slowly or progress as quickly and safely possible. For more information and to sign up, click the button below.
Go To Walk With Ease Page

Benefits Screening Sign-Up
2024-02-07 - 2024-02-29
SARCOA is traveling across the Wiregrass to get seniors (60+) signed up for the Farmers Market Benefit and to be screened for any other money saving programs that they may be missing out on receiving! To download a flyer showing all locations, dates and times click the button below. Visit these locations to be signed up for the $50 Farmers Market benefit. You can also be screened for other cost-saving programs including Food Assistance, Medicare Savings Plans, and other resources. We look forward to serving you!
Download Flyer

We Want To Hear From You
2024-03-28 10:00 - 11:15
The Alabama Department of Senior Services (ADSS) is holding a public meeting to hear comments and suggestions from senior adults, people with disabilities, caregivers, and others interested in people living at home and in their communities for as long as possible. Collected information will be used in the development of the 2025-2028 State Plan on Aging by the Alabama Department of Senior Services (ADSS) in partnership with the Southern Alabama Regional Council on Aging (SARCOA).
The meeting will be held Thursday, March 28, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. at the Andalusia Senior Center, 401 Walker Avenue, Andalusia, AL 36420. For more information, contact Nick Nyberg at (334) 242-5767. To download a flyer with complete information, click the button below.
Download Event Flyer

Fans For Life 2024
2024-06-03 - 2024-08-31
The JOYFM is partnering with SARCOA to give you an opportunity to make a cool impact on your community by donating a box fan or a small AC window unit. The Summer heat makes for some very uncomfortable and unhealthy living conditions for the elderly and disabled in the area who do not have any air circulating in their home.
Click here to go to our Fans for Life page.
You may also donate to Fans For Life through SARCOA by clicking the DONATE button below.

Public Hearing For Priorities Of Service
2024-07-24 10:30 - 12:00 | SARCOA, 1075 S. Brannon Stand Rd., Dothan, AL, 36305, United States
SARCOA will hold a public hearing to establish priorities of service for persons age 60 and above, as established in the Older Americans Act of 1965, for the counties of Barbour, Coffee, Covington, Dale, Geneva, Henry and Houston. Information gathered at the hearing will be compiled according to priorities and written into the plan to be administered by the area agency on aging during fiscal year 2025.
Public hearing will be held at 1065 S Brannon Stand Road, Dothan, AL 36305 at 10:30 a.m. on July 24, 2024. Contact us for more information.

Raising Children Support Group
2024-09-12 - 2025-12-31
Are You A Grandparent Raising Grandchildren?
The Older Relatives Raising Children support group meets the last Thursday of each month at SARCOA. These meetings allow older relatives and grandparents raising children to meet with a group of their peers and learn about community resources and financial assistance available. The meetings are held at SARCOA, 1075 S. Brannon Stand Road, in Dothan. For more information call (334) 793-6843. To download a flyer click here.

Healthy Brain and Aging Workshop
2025-02-12 09:30 - 12:00
Would you like to learn more about lifestyle, nutrition and activities that will keep your brain healthy?
Join us for a free event on dementia prevention and healthy aging education. The event will be held on February 12, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. until noon, at SARCOA, 1075 Brannon Stand Road in Dothan. Event sponsors are The Administration for Community Living, SARCOA, Alabama A&M and Auburn Universities Extension, and Valerie’s Health and Wellness.
Call (334) 793-6843 to sign up. Registration is limited to 50 people. To download a flyer click here.

Aging is Living Conference
2025-08-15
Aging is Living Conference 2025
An Aging is Living Conference will be held at First United Methodist Church of Dothan on August 15, 2025.
Speakers will include:

Dr. Rita Jablonski, University of Alabama at Birmingham, whose internationally-renowned program of research is focused on improving the lives of older adults, especially those with dementia who reside in nursing homes.
Dr. Beth Nolan, chief public health officer, lead mentor, trainer, and speaker from Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care® (PAC).
Many other speakers on caregiver well-being, dementia and Alzheimer’s care and legal planning.

We’re delighted to extend the invitation to caregivers and professionals in our community who are dedicated to supporting individuals. This conference is free for all community caregivers to attend. It’s our way of honoring your commitment and providing access to resources and support. Lunch will be provided to all registrants.
This event is $45 for CEU’s.
For more information or to register for this conference, click the button below.
Go To More Information and Registration

Food For Thought Events
2025-08-19 - 2025-09-18
Food For Thought Events August 19 and September 18
Are you a caregiver for someone living with dementia?
Join us for a practical and compassionate conversation about the legal preparations needed as individuals approach the final stages of life.
This free group session will help you better understand topics like powers of attorney, necessary documents, and how to ensure everything is in place before it’s needed.
Choose a session that fits your schedule:

Tuesday, August 19 OR Thursday, September 18 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
SARCOA Robert Crowder Conference Room
1075 S. Brannon Stand Road, Dothan, AL 36305

What to expect:

Learn from legal experts who understand the unique needs of dementia caregivers
Enjoy light refreshments
Connect with others navigating similar challenges

Who should attend:

Family members, friends, or caregivers of individuals living with dementia who want to be proactive and prepared for life’s later stages.

To register, contact Joy Riddle at 334-793-6843. To download a flyer click the button below.

Download Flyer

SARCOA Medicare Open Enrollment Events
2025-10-15 - 2025-12-04
Medicare Open Enrollment Starts October 15
Let SARCOA Help You Get Ready With Upcoming Events!
Medicare open enrollment for 2026 coverage starts on October 15, 2025, and continues through December 7, 2025. If you have not checked your Medicare coverage for 2025 now is the time and SARCOA can help! SARCOA is holding special events around our 7-county region to help inform seniors of the changes to Medicare coverage for 2026.
Plans change and your needs change. It is important to carefully review any materials and changes in costs or coverage that will happen in 2025, and decide if your current Medicare coverage will meet your needs for the year ahead.
Visit medicare.gov and use the Medicare Plan Finder to compare coverage options and shop for plans.
For a full list of event locations, dates and times, and if you would like SARCOA to help you with free personalized assistance via The State Health Insurance Assistance Program ( SHIP ), click the button below to go to the SARCOA open enrollment page.
Go To SARCOA’s Open Enrollment Page

Santa For Seniors
2025-10-31 - 2025-12-05
Santa For Seniors Is Here!
Santa for Seniors is a grassroots volunteer project designed to bring Christmas joy to Wiregrass seniors who need basic items for everyday living. SARCOA case managers chose the neediest seniors in the area as Santa for Seniors recipients. All have low income and most are homebound and alone. Each year there are several hundred clients with requests on a wish list. Common requests are groceries, liquid nutritional supplements like Ensure, bed linens, slippers, heaters and help with high utility bills.
If you would like to sponsor a senior click the button below to go to the Santa For Seniors page.

Go To The Santa For Seniors Page

Caregiver Support Group
2025-11-01 - 2026-12-31
SARCOA’s support group for caregivers meets on the first Thursday of every month from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Please join us at SARCOA, 1075 S. Brannon Stand Road in Dothan. Call (334) 793-6843 with any questions. The purpose of a caregiver support group is to provide a safe space for caregivers to share their experiences, learn from other caregivers, and get support. Caregiver support groups can help caregivers in many ways, including:

Emotional support: Caregivers can express their emotions and feel validated and understood.

Education: Caregivers can learn about caregiving techniques, healthcare systems, and community resources.

Coping skills: Caregivers can learn stress management techniques and self-care practices.

Sense of belonging: Caregivers can share challenges and triumphs with others who understand.

Reduced isolation: Caregivers can feel less lonely and isolated.

Network of support: Caregivers can establish a network of friends who they can call for help.

Reduced caregiver burden: Caregivers can learn to manage stress and improve their knowledge.

If you have any questions, please call SARCOA at 334-793-6843.
For additional information click the button below.
Go To Caregiver Assistance Page

Brain Health Blitz
2026-01-01 - 2026-03-14
Want to boost your brain health and lower your risk of dementia?
It’s never too early or too late to start!
This short free training video offers practical, science-based tips to help you care for your brain and reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Learn how everyday habits can make a big difference:

Eat Well: Choose foods that fuel and protect your brain
Stay Active: Keep your body moving and your mind sharp
Get Good Sleep: Rest well to support better brain function
Stay Connected: Build and maintain strong social ties

For more information click the button below:
Go To Brain Health Training Page

Caregiver Compass Support Group
2026-01-13 - 2026-12-08
Caregiver Compass is a nurturing and informative opportunity for caregivers of those facing memory loss. Join us to exchange experiences, discover practical strategies, and access valuable resources. Caregiver Compass serves as a support group for caregivers seeking guidance on memory care resources, education, and the essential support from fellow caregivers. Sponsored by SARCOA, Flowers Hospital and the PANDA Project, the group meets monthly at Flowers Hospital, 4370 West Main Street in Dothan. Meetings are held in the Atrium Classroom located on the first floor of the main hospital just left of the main entrance. Look for signage.
All meetings are held from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. The 2026 meeting schedule is January 13, February 10, March 10, April 14, May 12, June 9, July 14, August 11, September 8, October 13, November 10, and December 8. To download a flyer click here.

Valentine's Concert & Dance
2026-02-05 18:30 - 20:30
The Valentine’s Concert & Dance is a free event for older adults that brings together music, dancing, and community in a fun and welcoming setting. The event will take place on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at the Enterprise Civic Center, with doors opening at 6:15 PM. Entertainment will be provided by the Dothan Moonlighters Band.
While there is no cost to attend, donations will be accepted to support Hungry to Help, a SARCOA program that provides nutritious meals to homebound seniors in the Wiregrass area. Many older adults are unable to shop for groceries or prepare meals on their own, and this program ensures they receive the nourishment they need. One hundred percent of all donations go directly toward purchasing meals.
Donations may be made onsite at the event or by downloading the flyer here and scanning the QR code. For additional information or to RSVP, please call 334-793-6843.

Senior Wills Clinic
2026-05-19 10:00 - 14:00
SARCOA and the Alabama State Bar Volunteer Lawyers Program will be holding a Senior Wills Clinic on May 19, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., at SARCOA, 1075 S. Brannon Stand Road in Dothan. At the clinic wills, powers of attorney, and advanced healthcare directives will be provided at no charge. The clinic is free but you must make an appointment by scanning the QR code below or by calling (334) 517-2108. You must be age 65 or older to participate.
To download a flyer with information and QR code CLICK HERE.

Fraud Summit
2026-06-11 09:00 - 12:30
2026 Fraud Summit
Join us for the 2026 Fraud Summit where speakers from the Alabama Securities Commission, the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, AARP, and SHIP/SMP will be educating senior citizens on protecting themselves from scams, financial and other types of exploitation. A complimentary lunch will be served.
Date: Thursday, June 11, 2026
Time: 9 am – 12:30 pm
Location: SARCOA, 105 S. Brannon Stand Road, Dothan, AL 36301
Seating is limited for this no-cost event but you must reserve your seat by June 1. To reserve your seat, email joy.riddle@sarcoa.org or call (334) 793-6843.
To download the event flier click here.

Medicare 101 Event
2026-06-17 12:00 - 14:00
SARCOA is holding a Medicare 101 event on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from NOON until 2 p.m. at the Adult Activity Center, 401 Walker Avenue in Andalusia, AL. To download a flier with complete details CLICK HERE.
Topics of discussion will include:

How and when to enroll in Medicare
What original Medicare does and does not include
Medicare Advantage vs. supplement plans
Prescription drug coverage
Q&A session

Attendance is free but you must register by June 12, by calling Sonya Godwin at 334-222-6891.

Senior Wills Clinic
2026-06-30 10:00 - 14:00
SARCOA and the Alabama State Bar Volunteer Lawyers Program will be holding a Senior Wills Clinic on June 30, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., at SARCOA, 1075 S. Brannon Stand Road in Dothan. At the clinic wills, powers of attorney, and advanced healthcare directives will be provided at no charge. The clinic is free but you must make an appointment by scanning the QR code below or by calling (334) 517-2108. You must be age 65 or older to participate. The last day to register is June 22, 2026.
To download a flyer with information and QR code CLICK HERE.

Aging is Living Conference 2026
2026-08-14
Date:
Friday, August 14, 2026
Time:
Registration and Resource Center will be open from 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. for attendees to network.
Dr. Lamesa Danzey’s keynote speaking session starts at 9 a.m.
Location:
First United Methodist Church
1380 W. Main Street
Dothan, AL, 36301
Registration:
Registration opens July 1, 2026
For more information click the button below.
Go to Aging Is Living Main Page
