Hundreds of older adults, caregivers, family members, and
professionals gathered today at the Buffalo Niagara Marriott in Amherst for the 2026 Elder
Law Day, an annual event presented by the Erie County Department for the Aging in
partnership with the Center for Elder Law & Justice (CELJ).
The free event provided attendees with direct access to legal professionals, educational
presentations, and community resources designed to help older adults plan for the future,
protect their rights, and maintain their independence. Throughout the day, participants
attended workshops, met with service providers, and received guidance on a variety of
legal and aging-related issues.
"We want to ensure local senior citizens have easy access to information on various legal
issues that are important topics for the elderly," said Erie County Executive Mark
Poloncarz. "It is always wonderful to see so many residents take advantage of an event
that provides resources and expertise for older adults."
Attendees had the opportunity to participate in a full schedule of educational sessions
covering topics such as estate planning, wills and trusts, Medicaid planning, probate,
caregiving challenges, reverse mortgages, fraud prevention, and strategies for avoiding
family conflicts related to long-term care decisions. Additional presentations focused on
legal planning tools and resources available to LGBTQI+ older adults.
One of the most popular features of the event was the opportunity for pre-registered
participants to meet privately with experienced elder law attorneys for individualizedconsultations. These sessions provided practical guidance on legal matters affecting older
adults and their families.
The event also featured a resource fair showcasing more than two dozen organizations
offering services and support related to aging, caregiving, legal assistance, healthcare,
housing, and financial well-being. Attendees were able to connect directly with experts
and learn about programs available throughout Erie County and Western New York.
"Elder Law Day is a reflection of our commitment to helping older adults remain informed,
prepared, and empowered," said Randall Hoak, Erie County Department for the Aging
Commissioner. "Whether someone is planning for retirement, caring for a loved one,
protecting their assets, or seeking information about available benefits, the resources and
expertise available at this event can make a meaningful difference. We are proud to
partner with the Center for Elder Law & Justice to bring these services to our community."
Karen Nicolson, Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Elder Law & Justice, emphasized
the importance of ensuring older adults have access to reliable legal information and
advocacy.
"Elder Law Day is an invaluable opportunity for older adults and their families to access
reliable legal information, connect with trusted resources." said Karen Nicolson,
CEO/Executive Director of Center for Elder Law & Justice. "Laws, policies, and programs
impacting older adults are constantly evolving, making it essential that seniors have
access to current information and guidance. By bringing together legal professionals and
community partners, Elder Law Day helps empower older adults to make informed
decisions and protect their independence and well-being."
The need for programs such as Elder Law Day continues to grow. New York State is home
to more than 3.5 million residents age 65 and older, a population that has increased
significantly over the past decade. Many older adults face complex decisions related to
healthcare, housing, finances, and long-term care while also navigating increasing risks
from fraud and financial exploitation. Events such as Elder Law Day help bridge the gap
between individuals and the information, services, and professionals they need to make
confident decisions.
The Erie County Department for the Aging and the Center for Elder Law & Justice remain
committed to providing opportunities that connect older adults and caregivers with trusted
resources, helping them age with confidence, independence, and dignity.
About the Erie County Department for the Aging
The Erie County Department for the Aging is dedicated to helping older
adults maintain independence and engagement within their communities through accessto essential services, wellness programs, and advocacy. For more information,
visit https://www3.erie.gov/seniorservices/.
About the Center for Elder Law & Justice
The Center for Elder Law & Justice is a nonprofit legal services agency committed to
safeguarding the dignity, safety, and independence of seniors, people with disabilities, and
low-income individuals. Learn more at https://www.elderjusticeny.org/.
