Wise and shine

14 Oct 2026 Wise and shine

Growing older comes with questions. At the Aging Wiser Senior Expo, Central Arkansas seniors found people ready to help answer them. More than 300 attended the Sept. 17 event at the new Conway Community Center, where 60 vendors connected seniors, caregivers and families with information and support, according to Aging Wiser co-founder Karen Walker.

The third annual Senior & Caregiver Expo moved to a larger setting this year and shifted from Saturday to a weekday, a change organizers hoped would create more opportunities for seniors, caregivers and professionals to participate.

“The Aging Wiser Senior Expo is about so much more than gathering vendors in one place,” Walker said. “It’s about creating a bridge between seniors and the resources, information and people who can help them navigate this season of life.”

Walker, who co-founded Aging Wiser with Stacey Alston and Lindsay Davis, said aging touches every family, yet knowing where to turn for help can be difficult. Businesses, nonprofits, health and wellness professionals and community partners offered information about health, finances, caregiving and other resources that can make everyday life easier.

For Walker, Conway’s response reflected a community willing to invest its time and expertise in helping older adults live well. Some of the most rewarding moments came as visitors asked questions, discovered unfamiliar resources and made connections that could benefit themselves or someone they love.

501 LIFE was among the participating vendors, with Lisa Hutchison welcoming visitors to the magazine’s booth. “So many people stopped by to tell us how much they love 501 LIFE and look forward to it every month,” she said. “It was such a fun afternoon, and those conversations made it especially meaningful for us.”

Beyond the afternoon’s introductions, Walker hopes the expo encouraged families to approach aging with knowledge, planning and joy, and to seek support before a crisis arises. “We want seniors to leave feeling informed and connected,” she said. “We want them to know that they are seen, valued and supported by their community.”