Education/Resources

Empathy for Elders Seminar

The Education Committee is a group of BLFS member volunteers passionate about helping the seniors of Polk County. Our premier seminar, "Empathy for Elders,"  is an interactive and educational presentation. It offers the participants the opportunity to learn about:

• The aging process
• Ailments that come along with aging
• Tips on how to better assist this generation
• How to be a better caregiver
• How to provide a better quality of life for our older generation

The Education Committee has presented to hundreds of students, health care professionals, family caregivers, health care facility team members, hospice volunteers, and many more. The presentation can be customized to present to any audience in any length of time. We can share a short 10-minute "This is one thing you can do today to make a difference" or our complete 1-hour interactive presentation.

For more information, please contact Ashley Vogel at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   or view click on the following link for a copy of our promotional flyer...  2011 Empathy For Elders Flyer

Life Care Seminars

BLFS has also sponsored and co-sponsored a number of educational seminars including a colaborative effort with Lakeland Regional Medical Center to offer "LIFE CARE" seminars to the community dealing with advanced directives, guardianship, geriatric care management, elder law, etc. Become a "friend of BLFS" to receive information on uncoming community life care seminars.

Conferences & Health Fairs

BLFS has partnered with the Alzheimer's Association in presenting a community conference on Alzheimer's and related Dementia. In 2011 hundreds gathered for this event which included speakers from the community and universities as well as the many vendors offering their services.

BLFS also is involved in various health fairs throughout the year offering member information and promoting the coalition.

Guest Speakers at Monthly Meetings

Possibly one of the best sources of information are at our monthly meetings where a variety of speakers are invited to share items of interest to seniors and professional service providers. Monthly meetings are on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at various member locations. A free breakfast is included. See the home page for information on our next meeting or click here for a list of upcoming meetings.  Meeting Schedule